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Bride Quest #1
The Princess
Princess Brianna was determined to marry for love despite King Henry’s decree that she wed one of the sons of the man who had conquered her family’s castle. So Brianna issued a seemingly impossible challenge: he who returned with a gift that made her laugh would win her hand. And thus began the bride quest of the three brothers Fitzgavin. Burke and Rowan, knights both, set out at her command.
Only Luc remained, refusing to indulge the whims of the glorious Irish princess. Even Brianna’s legendary beauty could not tempt him—until she invaded his senses…and his soul. But Luc thought a princess had no place in the life of a battle-weary warrior who vowed to lay down his sword forever—until he was forced to take up arms to protect the fair maiden who had seized his heart by divine right.
Only Luc remained, refusing to indulge the whims of the glorious Irish princess. Even Brianna’s legendary beauty could not tempt him—until she invaded his senses…and his soul. But Luc thought a princess had no place in the life of a battle-weary warrior who vowed to lay down his sword forever—until he was forced to take up arms to protect the fair maiden who had seized his heart by divine right.
408 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 10, 1998
791 people are currently reading
1007 people want to read
About the author
Claire Delacroix
123 books518 followersNew York Times bestselling author Claire Delacroix sold her first book in 1992, an historical romance called ROMANCE OF THE ROSE. Since then, she has published over sixty romance novels and novellas, and has also been published under the names Claire Cross and Deborah Cooke. She has an honours degree in history, with a focus on medieval studies. She is an avid reader of medieval vernacular literature, fairy tales and fantasy novels.
For books written under the pseudonym, Claire Cross, see:
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For books written under Claire's own name, Deborah Cooke, please see:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
In October and November 2009, she was the writer in residence for the Toronto Public Library, the first time that the library has hosted a residency focused on the romance genre.
Visit her two websites here:
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For books written under the pseudonym, Claire Cross, see:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
For books written under Claire's own name, Deborah Cooke, please see:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
In October and November 2009, she was the writer in residence for the Toronto Public Library, the first time that the library has hosted a residency focused on the romance genre.
Visit her two websites here:
http://www.delacroix.net
http://www.deborahcooke.com
Like her Facebook Fan Pages here:
http://www.facebook.com/AuthorClaireD...
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDebora...
Subscribe to her monthly newsletter to keep up to date and receive special offers:
http://eepurl.com/reIuD
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
August 30, 2022
Fairy tale twist set in 1175 Ireland. Interesting personality to the hero. I liked him a lot. The story also twisted in some unforeseen directions, and not everyone survives to the end.
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July 18, 2019
This story is so much more than the bride quest story similar to many of the fables and tales we've read before. Yes, basically is it a bride quest story but Claire develops the characters with both strengths and weaknesses that bring them to life. Throw in a mystery and murders and it is an intriguing and exciting read.
September 10, 2010
Some parts good, some not. I liked the idea of one son refusing to participate in the quest for an item to win the bride.
By staying home he got to know her and won her over that way, even though he wasn't planning to. Most of it was a nice story, but there were times I wished the story were over. I even skimmed a few pages. The conflict that caused her to leave him toward the end was an incorrect assumption on her part. I was diasappointed that the author couldn't come up with something better to create conflict. Sexual content: moderate.
By staying home he got to know her and won her over that way, even though he wasn't planning to. Most of it was a nice story, but there were times I wished the story were over. I even skimmed a few pages. The conflict that caused her to leave him toward the end was an incorrect assumption on her part. I was diasappointed that the author couldn't come up with something better to create conflict. Sexual content: moderate.
January 11, 2021
Slow-paced but I did enjoy the hero and heroine getting to know each other.
October 25, 2008
Princess Brianna of Tullymullagh issues a challenge to the sons of the man that conquered her father's castle: whichever brother went forth and found a gift to make her laugh would win her hand. Brianna wishes to marry only her one true love, but King Henry has commanded she marry one of the three sons.
Burke and Rowan set off on her quest, but the third son, Luc, remains behind. He has no interest in a bride and certainly no interest in a princess used to having others follow her command. But her willful determination as well as her charm and quick wit capture Luc's attention.
I haven't read a lot of romances, because there are only a few kinds I will even consider, but I enjoy historicals a lot, so I fell in love with this book right away. Claire Delacroix possesses an effortless writing style that pulls the reader into ancient times, when knights defended their lands and kings, vying for the right to a noble marriage. The story is somewhat predictable, but there are a few twists and turns to keep the reader guessing, including the mystery of a couple of murders and the hidden legend of the Rose of Tullymullagh.
I love Delacroix's characters and this book will always be among my favorites.
Burke and Rowan set off on her quest, but the third son, Luc, remains behind. He has no interest in a bride and certainly no interest in a princess used to having others follow her command. But her willful determination as well as her charm and quick wit capture Luc's attention.
I haven't read a lot of romances, because there are only a few kinds I will even consider, but I enjoy historicals a lot, so I fell in love with this book right away. Claire Delacroix possesses an effortless writing style that pulls the reader into ancient times, when knights defended their lands and kings, vying for the right to a noble marriage. The story is somewhat predictable, but there are a few twists and turns to keep the reader guessing, including the mystery of a couple of murders and the hidden legend of the Rose of Tullymullagh.
I love Delacroix's characters and this book will always be among my favorites.
June 27, 2023
The Princess by Claire Delacroix is the first in the Bride Quest Series. The three Fitzgavin brothers make us the first three books of the series and then a widow and her daughters make up the remaining three stories in this series. This story begins with the castle being overrun and captured by Gavin for the king of England. The King and Gavin will allow Brianna to stay if she marries one of Gavin’s sons. Brianna creates a quest for the Fitzgavin brothers if they are to win her heart and marry her to be the leader of Tullymullagh they must find something that will make her laugh. Whoever brings the thing that makes her laugh loudest and longest will win her as a wife. Two of Gavin’s sons ride out on the quest however Luc will have none of this nonsense. He just wants his father to give him what is owed him from his birth. The story has many twists and turns including 3 funerals and a wedding. I enjoyed this story and am looking forward to the second book in this series.
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June 7, 2019
This novel was very much a feel good book. A story I remember reading when I was younger. I enjoyed revisiting this novel.
The characters are very endearing and lovely. A very sweet love story.
The characters are very endearing and lovely. A very sweet love story.
March 14, 2021
Great read. A few sad moments but overall good story telling.
June 16, 2019
An okay read. Not my favorite Delacroix book but not bad either.
September 27, 2011
"The Princess" (Bride Quest 1) Brianna is the "perfect tiny fairy queen" of 1100s Irish Tullymullagh. She falls for Luc, eldest of three (trilogy, duh) Welsh brothers Fitzgavin (son of nasty G). To thwart conqueror English Henry II, Bri declares the winner for her hand will be the son who brings the gift that makes her laugh most. Claire Delacroix adds humor, heat, and double murder to an otherwise sappy sweet with lush lingo. Twas naught a-tangle the morn can over-wrought us the morrow. Tis almost a spoof 'pon tis-self (sic). Luc has a "great" honker, dresses plainly, gave up knighting after the Crusades 15 years before, gardens rather than compete, even advises her to choose heir Burke (next book). The blushing maiden is so soft because she does "precious little", even "loathes embroidery". Predictable plot. Traditional happy ever after. Not-spoiler: Before the marriage he satisfies only her, epilogue pregnancy. I know exactly what to expect when I'm in the mood for a sequel.
My family history had a castle in Ireland. When I visited the home country, one-room towers overlooked and ruled a surrounding field. Kingdoms small like the island. Puts olden days in context of few people.
My family history had a castle in Ireland. When I visited the home country, one-room towers overlooked and ruled a surrounding field. Kingdoms small like the island. Puts olden days in context of few people.
January 21, 2019
Brianna's castle has been taken by King Henry II. Brianna see's her father bent at the knee to King Henry II and she has a fit, which leads to the King demanding she marries to one of his mercenary's sons. She plots and schemes believing she can return her father's lands to him. She comes across as spoiled and highly unbelievable behavior given that period in time. She demands the sons go on a quest to find a gift, the gift that makes her laugh loudest and longest wins her hand.
While I didn't like her, nor appreciated the book repeatedly trying to explain away her behavior I loved Luc. He's the eldest son and has no desire to win her hand, instead of going on the quest he stays at the castle and works to repair the neglected orchard. He's humble, caring and noble. Luc only wants to return to his barony but as he interacts with Brianna they warm to each other and murders bring them even closer together. We see Brianna growing up and being more mature but I still found it hard to like her until almost the very end.
While I didn't like her, nor appreciated the book repeatedly trying to explain away her behavior I loved Luc. He's the eldest son and has no desire to win her hand, instead of going on the quest he stays at the castle and works to repair the neglected orchard. He's humble, caring and noble. Luc only wants to return to his barony but as he interacts with Brianna they warm to each other and murders bring them even closer together. We see Brianna growing up and being more mature but I still found it hard to like her until almost the very end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2012
I loved this book. I happen to purchase the book because I loved the title and book cover. I am not a huge romance reader, but this book has enough of a story that it is more about the growing love than smut. I found myself wanting certain characters to take more life, but was very happy with a few little twists. The story is a beautiful romance between an Irish princess and the man who will win her heart by making her laugh in the bride quest.
March 31, 2018
3.5 stars
I have passed up this book many times. I finally decided to read it. At first it was slow going and the heroine sounded spoiled and childish. I almost put it down. I did like the hero. The book is long. Slow in some places, fast going in others. This story was full of intrigue, laughter, sadness, and even love. I may even read the next book in the series. Glad this series is KU because I may have continued to pass it up.
I have passed up this book many times. I finally decided to read it. At first it was slow going and the heroine sounded spoiled and childish. I almost put it down. I did like the hero. The book is long. Slow in some places, fast going in others. This story was full of intrigue, laughter, sadness, and even love. I may even read the next book in the series. Glad this series is KU because I may have continued to pass it up.
June 30, 2013
2.5 stars.
Had I read this in 1998 (when it was published), I probably would have loved it. I probably wouldn't have minded the sometimes silly dialogue, the now-out-of-date characters, the predictable plot.
However, this book suffers in the light of 2013. But it was fresh and different in some areas, and I was invested enough to skim through to the end to see how it all came together.
Had I read this in 1998 (when it was published), I probably would have loved it. I probably wouldn't have minded the sometimes silly dialogue, the now-out-of-date characters, the predictable plot.
However, this book suffers in the light of 2013. But it was fresh and different in some areas, and I was invested enough to skim through to the end to see how it all came together.
August 8, 2008
I wanted a romance, but I could not get into the characters at all. I felt they were 2 dimensional. Throughout the book there were a lot of 'twas, 'twould, 'tis, 'tweren't, that it just annoyed me to no end. I was on page 140 by the time I gave it up.
August 27, 2017
I’m so pleased to see this series written some 20 years ago, being re-released. The jacket covers have all been revamped and are absolutely beautiful, depicting castles and swords.
The Princess starts a series about three brothers who find their true loves. There is nothing like a fairy tale theme to get me smiling even before I begin the read.
Author Delacroix does not dampen my anticipation and enthusiasm with her beguiling speech pattern, mystery with surprising twists and a clever, beautiful, pure-of-heart heroine who wants only to marry for love. I am pulled emotionally and mentally into the keep of Tullymullagh. The life may be simple, but the danger can take your breath away.
Brianna, daughter to the King of Tullymullagh, does not want to be forced into a marriage. King Henry II has taken the castle and surrounding lands, giving them to its new vassal, Gavin Fitzgerald. Brianna is to marry his son. This does not fit with her plans, so she sends all three sons on a quest—to bring her something which will make her laugh. The one who makes her laugh the loudest and longest will have her hand.
The elder son, Luc Fiztgavin, does not want to participate. He just wants to return to his home in Wales. But his sire’s request and one of his own make it neigh impossible to not come. It was time to obtain Llanvelyn’s seal from his father, a promise his sire promised to fulfill.
When the other sons are off on their quest, Luc stays behind and spends his time working on the orchard which has been poorly cared for. He loves working the land, a love he gained in his childhood when he lived with Pyrs, a man who saw the caliber of person Luc is. Unbeknownst to him, the orchard had been near and dear to Brianna’s mother.
Brianna is curious about this man who wouldn’t fight to win her hand. Curiosity and Luc’s teasing nature, keep Brianna coming back to the orchard. What is it about him which draws her?
From Luc, he doesn’t want a princess, but his eye and reaction to her, he can’t control.
When he first looked at her:
Gavin, the father, is a bit of a pill. It is difficult to read him. He is a bully, even with his sons. He enjoys demeaning people for it raises his own prestige, or so he thinks. However, he is a man who learns a very big lesson with a huge price.
We get to know more about who Luc is. He’s a man of honor, a man of his word. This is very important to him. He no longer carries a sword, laid down some 10 years ago. He has strong reasons to have done so.
Evil walks within the castle. People die. Luc wants to protect Brianna, for death walks closest to her.
The characters all play important roles, providing a rich field for lies, intrigue, and false leads.
Father Padraig is very much the moralist for the people. When a mishap happens, it is because of the sin of the person. I enjoyed not liking him.
Ruarke de Rossier is the knight who is supposed to protect the keep. He has questionable morals, and a ready smile for Brianna. He doesn’t entirely ring true. Luc doesn’t like him overly much, but when Gavin beats him and he’s defenseless, he stops the beating, stands before his sire, ready to be beaten himself.
I thoroughly enjoy Brother Thomas, a jovial monk with a big belly he very much likes to fill. He adds both humor and past knowledge which Luc needs to ferret out the killer.
Themes:
· When jealousy takes hold, there is no room for logical thought!
· Bullying doesn’t make people loyal.
· Honor cannot be a knight’s by right. It is part of his soul, his character and all invasive.
· Greed and seeking wealth by any means, will eventually take you down.
· Beauty of the soul is most beautiful of all.
The Princess starts a series about three brothers who find their true loves. There is nothing like a fairy tale theme to get me smiling even before I begin the read.
Author Delacroix does not dampen my anticipation and enthusiasm with her beguiling speech pattern, mystery with surprising twists and a clever, beautiful, pure-of-heart heroine who wants only to marry for love. I am pulled emotionally and mentally into the keep of Tullymullagh. The life may be simple, but the danger can take your breath away.
Brianna, daughter to the King of Tullymullagh, does not want to be forced into a marriage. King Henry II has taken the castle and surrounding lands, giving them to its new vassal, Gavin Fitzgerald. Brianna is to marry his son. This does not fit with her plans, so she sends all three sons on a quest—to bring her something which will make her laugh. The one who makes her laugh the loudest and longest will have her hand.
Could she truly ensure there was no victor in this contest? Aye! If Brianna set terms upon the resolution, the brothers would have to meet them. ‘Twould be just like a bard’s tale, the princess demanding that a trio of suitors compete to earn her favor.
The elder son, Luc Fiztgavin, does not want to participate. He just wants to return to his home in Wales. But his sire’s request and one of his own make it neigh impossible to not come. It was time to obtain Llanvelyn’s seal from his father, a promise his sire promised to fulfill.
On principle alone, Luc was prepared to dislike everything about Tullymullagh, no less its spoiled princess. But the first sight of Tullymullagh’s high square tower awakened an unexpected admiration with Luc.
When the other sons are off on their quest, Luc stays behind and spends his time working on the orchard which has been poorly cared for. He loves working the land, a love he gained in his childhood when he lived with Pyrs, a man who saw the caliber of person Luc is. Unbeknownst to him, the orchard had been near and dear to Brianna’s mother.
Brianna is curious about this man who wouldn’t fight to win her hand. Curiosity and Luc’s teasing nature, keep Brianna coming back to the orchard. What is it about him which draws her?
From Luc, he doesn’t want a princess, but his eye and reaction to her, he can’t control.
Brianna was the perfect, tiny fairy queen of Pyrs’ bedtime tales. Luc had never imagine that such beauty could exist outside of fanciful stories and was clutched with a desire so primal that it curled his toes.
When he first looked at her:
Then she glanced at Luc. A jolt ripped through him as their eyes met. Her full lips parted ever so slightly and Luc had the distinct sense that they were the only two in the hall.
Gavin, the father, is a bit of a pill. It is difficult to read him. He is a bully, even with his sons. He enjoys demeaning people for it raises his own prestige, or so he thinks. However, he is a man who learns a very big lesson with a huge price.
We get to know more about who Luc is. He’s a man of honor, a man of his word. This is very important to him. He no longer carries a sword, laid down some 10 years ago. He has strong reasons to have done so.
Evil walks within the castle. People die. Luc wants to protect Brianna, for death walks closest to her.
The characters all play important roles, providing a rich field for lies, intrigue, and false leads.
Father Padraig is very much the moralist for the people. When a mishap happens, it is because of the sin of the person. I enjoyed not liking him.
Ruarke de Rossier is the knight who is supposed to protect the keep. He has questionable morals, and a ready smile for Brianna. He doesn’t entirely ring true. Luc doesn’t like him overly much, but when Gavin beats him and he’s defenseless, he stops the beating, stands before his sire, ready to be beaten himself.
I thoroughly enjoy Brother Thomas, a jovial monk with a big belly he very much likes to fill. He adds both humor and past knowledge which Luc needs to ferret out the killer.
Themes:
· When jealousy takes hold, there is no room for logical thought!
· Bullying doesn’t make people loyal.
· Honor cannot be a knight’s by right. It is part of his soul, his character and all invasive.
· Greed and seeking wealth by any means, will eventually take you down.
· Beauty of the soul is most beautiful of all.
November 8, 2017
I'm not sure what I expected out of this book but what I got was an enjoyable read with well-written characters and a plot that, if not perfect, moves along at a decent clip and reaches a satisfying conclusion. Set in medieval Ireland, the story opens with Brianna's father, Connor of Tullymullagh, acknowledging his defeat at the hand of a Welsh mercenary serving King Henry of England. Brianna is heartbroken for her father, who has worked to build the castle he is now being forced to surrender, and interrupts the ceremony.
Of course, for a woman to draw attention to herself like that places Brianna in a dangerous position. King Henry seeks to use her to bind his vassals together and orders her married to one of the mercenary's sons. Gavin immediately puts forward Burke, his heir, but desperate to maintain both her own independence and somehow keep the castle for her father, Brianna demands a choice. Her spirit amuses the king, who supports her request, and Gavin is forced to send for his three sons to allow Brianna a choice.
Brianna, meanwhile, is plotting to choose none of them and when presented with the three for her choosing, announces a quest instead. Burke and Rowan, obedient to their father's will, ride off in search of a gift to make Brianna laugh. Only Luc, the eldest, remains behind, having no interest in a wife. He had answered his father's summons only in an attempt to receive the seal for the Welsh estate he grew up on and now manages, having hung up his spurs as a knight. Not even his father's temper can drive him out — which complicates Brianna's plan to no end.
I really enjoyed watching Brianna and Luc fall in love with each other. Brianna is willful and used to getting her own way, but she also genuinely cares about the people her father rules and grows into someone who does for them over the course of the book instead of simply taking her position for granted. Luc, on the other hand, has scars that run deep from his service as a knight but realizes over the course of the book that the main thing keeping him from healing was himself.
If I had one complaint about the story, it's that some of the side characters are a little flat. This is probably due to the need for multiple characters in order to make the mystery halfway believable, but the result is a bunch of characters who are less well developed, especially in comparison with Luc and Brianna. The plot feels at its weakest when it's relying on the mystery for tension, which is unfortunately much of the second half of the book.
Still, I enjoyed this enough to read through it in one sitting. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series, even though this isn't one of my regular subgenres, so I encourage you to pick it up if you have the chance.
Of course, for a woman to draw attention to herself like that places Brianna in a dangerous position. King Henry seeks to use her to bind his vassals together and orders her married to one of the mercenary's sons. Gavin immediately puts forward Burke, his heir, but desperate to maintain both her own independence and somehow keep the castle for her father, Brianna demands a choice. Her spirit amuses the king, who supports her request, and Gavin is forced to send for his three sons to allow Brianna a choice.
Brianna, meanwhile, is plotting to choose none of them and when presented with the three for her choosing, announces a quest instead. Burke and Rowan, obedient to their father's will, ride off in search of a gift to make Brianna laugh. Only Luc, the eldest, remains behind, having no interest in a wife. He had answered his father's summons only in an attempt to receive the seal for the Welsh estate he grew up on and now manages, having hung up his spurs as a knight. Not even his father's temper can drive him out — which complicates Brianna's plan to no end.
I really enjoyed watching Brianna and Luc fall in love with each other. Brianna is willful and used to getting her own way, but she also genuinely cares about the people her father rules and grows into someone who does for them over the course of the book instead of simply taking her position for granted. Luc, on the other hand, has scars that run deep from his service as a knight but realizes over the course of the book that the main thing keeping him from healing was himself.
If I had one complaint about the story, it's that some of the side characters are a little flat. This is probably due to the need for multiple characters in order to make the mystery halfway believable, but the result is a bunch of characters who are less well developed, especially in comparison with Luc and Brianna. The plot feels at its weakest when it's relying on the mystery for tension, which is unfortunately much of the second half of the book.
Still, I enjoyed this enough to read through it in one sitting. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series, even though this isn't one of my regular subgenres, so I encourage you to pick it up if you have the chance.
December 27, 2021
2 Stars
Truthfully there was nothing particularly bad about this book. Teenage me might have adored it tbh but adult me found it tedious, cheesy, predictable and unrealistic.
The heroine Brianna of an undetermined age was naive and innocent in all ways. Impulsive and opinionated but also kind hearted. She was a conundrum to me. At first I liked her, at least with how the book opened. Then we continue on and the more I read the more I sighed and rolled my eyes. She really was a child to me. She showed signs of wisdom and maturity at times but mostly she felt childish. I never believed in her as a woman of marriageable age tbh. And her worst offense in my mind was her silly pledge to never marry anyone but her One True Love. Lord take me now. The silliness of it all! Especially to go up against a King of all people because you simply refuse to marry anyone but your One True Love. Those were her exact words used each time. All because her father and mother loved one another and apparently the story of how they met and came to be married was a fairytale story that ruined this poor child. Gave her the wrong expectations and no one decided to correct her.
So no, I did not like precious Princess Brianna. Her whimsical dreaming and silly scheme to win back her families home for her father while made with the best of intentions was just that...silly! That is the best word to describe this entire book.
The hero Luc was the only reason I stuck with it as long as I did before I realized he too was silly and just plain boring. But by then I was determined to finish.
The romance was cute at first and felt like there was something nice building with chemistry with their kisses but alas that lost any spark it had too.
Overall the book wasn't bad but it was absurd to me. It was so OTT dramatic with the villains and murders and of course the princess determined to have her way against a King. It was so ridiculous to know a young woman believed she had any chance to deny a king without punishment. Not even her father helped her in that regard.
Disappointed was thy name by the end. Such cheesy unrealistic silliness and predictability taxed my mind to its limit. No more of this series for me.
Truthfully there was nothing particularly bad about this book. Teenage me might have adored it tbh but adult me found it tedious, cheesy, predictable and unrealistic.
The heroine Brianna of an undetermined age was naive and innocent in all ways. Impulsive and opinionated but also kind hearted. She was a conundrum to me. At first I liked her, at least with how the book opened. Then we continue on and the more I read the more I sighed and rolled my eyes. She really was a child to me. She showed signs of wisdom and maturity at times but mostly she felt childish. I never believed in her as a woman of marriageable age tbh. And her worst offense in my mind was her silly pledge to never marry anyone but her One True Love. Lord take me now. The silliness of it all! Especially to go up against a King of all people because you simply refuse to marry anyone but your One True Love. Those were her exact words used each time. All because her father and mother loved one another and apparently the story of how they met and came to be married was a fairytale story that ruined this poor child. Gave her the wrong expectations and no one decided to correct her.
So no, I did not like precious Princess Brianna. Her whimsical dreaming and silly scheme to win back her families home for her father while made with the best of intentions was just that...silly! That is the best word to describe this entire book.
The hero Luc was the only reason I stuck with it as long as I did before I realized he too was silly and just plain boring. But by then I was determined to finish.
The romance was cute at first and felt like there was something nice building with chemistry with their kisses but alas that lost any spark it had too.
Overall the book wasn't bad but it was absurd to me. It was so OTT dramatic with the villains and murders and of course the princess determined to have her way against a King. It was so ridiculous to know a young woman believed she had any chance to deny a king without punishment. Not even her father helped her in that regard.
Disappointed was thy name by the end. Such cheesy unrealistic silliness and predictability taxed my mind to its limit. No more of this series for me.
October 10, 2017
This story took some time for me to get into. The concept was good. The story was sweet. The characters were interesting, Luc more than Brianna, and the conflict was strong. You don’t see who the villain was until the very end. Brianna was a bit silly and spoiled acting in the beginning until Luc starts to see the real her. It was like once he saw her depths was when the reader was also able to see that how she behaved, in the beginning, wasn’t the real Brianna. I did have trouble sticking with this one though. There weren’t a lot of tense moments or emotional turmoil until the very end, when their love and the seal to the one Keep Luc wanted from the very beginning, was revealed. The best part of the story was the mystery of who was the murderer, where the real Rose was located, and who was next to die or be harmed. I did enjoy the mystery and watching the characters solve the crimes committed. I needed more from my female lead character and the passion was kind of lacking until after the marriage. This definitely has an old romance vibe about it. Less passion more fairy tale, which is enjoyable, but a bit tame. I have read the Bride Quest II trilogy and enjoyed them, so I will definitely see what the other two books in this original Bride Quest series has to offer.
A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion.
A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion.
March 24, 2018
This just might be the perfect historical romance book. It's certainly the best I've ever read, and I've read many, many great historical romances, even a handful by this same author. This book hits a home run on every front - scintillating romance, strong and chivalrous hero, feisty yet capable heroine, exquisite historical accuracy down to the very smallest detail, and a cast of characters that make Tullymullagh a place you wish was real enough to plan your next vacation.
Brianna may seem like a fickle young woman, sending out the three sons of the conquering mercenary on a fool's errand to make her laugh, but we quickly learn that Brianna is far more than she seems. Luc wants no part in any of these games, having only journeyed to Tullymullagh to force his father to make good on a decade-old promise to him. But refusing to participate puts him right in the middle of all the castle intrigue, and he's forced to confront his deepest secrets and desires as he questions why Brianna is developing such a strong hold on him.
It's a story that has everything - betrayal, suspense, feudal politics, family loyalties, even a sword fight that will leave you breathless. It's an escape from the modern world like no other, a reading experience that will linger in your heart for a lifetime.
Brianna may seem like a fickle young woman, sending out the three sons of the conquering mercenary on a fool's errand to make her laugh, but we quickly learn that Brianna is far more than she seems. Luc wants no part in any of these games, having only journeyed to Tullymullagh to force his father to make good on a decade-old promise to him. But refusing to participate puts him right in the middle of all the castle intrigue, and he's forced to confront his deepest secrets and desires as he questions why Brianna is developing such a strong hold on him.
It's a story that has everything - betrayal, suspense, feudal politics, family loyalties, even a sword fight that will leave you breathless. It's an escape from the modern world like no other, a reading experience that will linger in your heart for a lifetime.
September 2, 2017
The Princess -The Bride Quest book 1
by Claire Delacroix
One Princess three brothers and a quest!
Princess Briana's home castle has been conquered and by the Kings decree must marry one of the sons of Gavin Fitzgerald. Brianna who has no wish to marry for convenience or to make the King happy wishes to marry for love. She comes up with a quest- the one who'll bring her an object that will make her laugh will have her hand in marriage......of the three who will win her hand?
Luc, Burke, Rowan of the three two rush to deliver Brianna's quest but Luc had seen to much of battle and wants nothing more than just a simple quiet life. He doesn't feel worthy of the beautiful Briana but every time she's near him her beauty and stolen kisses take his breath away and awakens a heart that he thought dead a long time ago.
But evil lurks in halls of the castle and Luc must do all in his power to keep Briana safe.
Intrigue and deceit keep you turning the pages with the anticipation to find the evil doers!
Well written and interesting read, a fairy tale twist of a story!
by Claire Delacroix
One Princess three brothers and a quest!
Princess Briana's home castle has been conquered and by the Kings decree must marry one of the sons of Gavin Fitzgerald. Brianna who has no wish to marry for convenience or to make the King happy wishes to marry for love. She comes up with a quest- the one who'll bring her an object that will make her laugh will have her hand in marriage......of the three who will win her hand?
Luc, Burke, Rowan of the three two rush to deliver Brianna's quest but Luc had seen to much of battle and wants nothing more than just a simple quiet life. He doesn't feel worthy of the beautiful Briana but every time she's near him her beauty and stolen kisses take his breath away and awakens a heart that he thought dead a long time ago.
But evil lurks in halls of the castle and Luc must do all in his power to keep Briana safe.
Intrigue and deceit keep you turning the pages with the anticipation to find the evil doers!
Well written and interesting read, a fairy tale twist of a story!
August 6, 2019
First and foremost I would say whoever edited this book should find a new profession. The overuse of words throughout, combined with typos and editing errors really got under my skin. If I saw many more uses of various forms of "flash" I was going to put the book down, and the editing issues resulted in the loss of a full star.
However, the sons of Gavin Fitzgavin really grew on me, as did Brianna and Connor. The slow growth of the relationship is cute and sweet, I found it really endearing and a nice balance to how utterly horrible Gavin himself is. The threats to Tullymullagh, and indeed Connor and Brianna themselves, really gave a sense of foreboding and kept me reading. Luc is a wonderful man, and his brothers appear to be as well.
I MIGHT read the other 5 books, but it’s going to take some thinking. I really can’t stand a book coming from big publishers that have so many editing issues. I love the concept though, so I do come away with overall decent feelings about the story despite the problems.
For a longer review of this book visit https://fangsandfemmes.home.blog
However, the sons of Gavin Fitzgavin really grew on me, as did Brianna and Connor. The slow growth of the relationship is cute and sweet, I found it really endearing and a nice balance to how utterly horrible Gavin himself is. The threats to Tullymullagh, and indeed Connor and Brianna themselves, really gave a sense of foreboding and kept me reading. Luc is a wonderful man, and his brothers appear to be as well.
I MIGHT read the other 5 books, but it’s going to take some thinking. I really can’t stand a book coming from big publishers that have so many editing issues. I love the concept though, so I do come away with overall decent feelings about the story despite the problems.
For a longer review of this book visit https://fangsandfemmes.home.blog
September 22, 2019
The Princess by Claire Delacroix is a Wonderful Book.
Brianna of Tullymullagh doesn't wish to marry without being in Love like her parents, the King had other plans which throws her of course.
Luc Fitzgavin the oldest Son of Gavin the Man who the King gave Tullymullagh Castle to for Conquering it & basically kissing the Kings butt.
Gavin has to summon his 3 Sons so Brianna can choose between them.
Luc, Burke & Rowan Fitzgavin were given a test by Brianna, whichever Man brought a gift to her that would make her laugh would be the one she would marry. Only Luc refuses to do the spoiled Princesses Game.
She is furious when Luc refuses to do her bidding. She informs him that he simply cannot stay at the Castle & not participate in the challenge she set.
As the turmoil of their conflict begins, they find themselves falling for one another.
Will Luc be able to find something to make Brianna laugh so he can become her Husband? Or will he stand back & let 1 of his 2 brothers marry her?
Brianna of Tullymullagh doesn't wish to marry without being in Love like her parents, the King had other plans which throws her of course.
Luc Fitzgavin the oldest Son of Gavin the Man who the King gave Tullymullagh Castle to for Conquering it & basically kissing the Kings butt.
Gavin has to summon his 3 Sons so Brianna can choose between them.
Luc, Burke & Rowan Fitzgavin were given a test by Brianna, whichever Man brought a gift to her that would make her laugh would be the one she would marry. Only Luc refuses to do the spoiled Princesses Game.
She is furious when Luc refuses to do her bidding. She informs him that he simply cannot stay at the Castle & not participate in the challenge she set.
As the turmoil of their conflict begins, they find themselves falling for one another.
Will Luc be able to find something to make Brianna laugh so he can become her Husband? Or will he stand back & let 1 of his 2 brothers marry her?
November 22, 2023
The Rose of Tullymullagh
What a wonderful beginning story as brothers embark on quests to find their true loves! The Princess tells the story of Luc and Brianna. Princess Brianna's holding has been conquered by Gavin. However a boon has been granted by the conquerors, that Briana send his 3 sons on a quest and she'll marry the one who makes her laugh loudest and longest. Luc is the middle son, a disgrace to his father. He seeks only to receive the seal to the estate he's been overseeing for Gavin. The other 2 sons leave on the quest. Luc stays behind, concerned with a neglected orchard. As these two headstrong people interact amid concerns and mysteries, they have to decide what is more important, their personal vows or their growing feelings for one another. Will the mystery of the Rose of Tullymullagh advance their love or destroy them? You must read it to find out.
What a wonderful beginning story as brothers embark on quests to find their true loves! The Princess tells the story of Luc and Brianna. Princess Brianna's holding has been conquered by Gavin. However a boon has been granted by the conquerors, that Briana send his 3 sons on a quest and she'll marry the one who makes her laugh loudest and longest. Luc is the middle son, a disgrace to his father. He seeks only to receive the seal to the estate he's been overseeing for Gavin. The other 2 sons leave on the quest. Luc stays behind, concerned with a neglected orchard. As these two headstrong people interact amid concerns and mysteries, they have to decide what is more important, their personal vows or their growing feelings for one another. Will the mystery of the Rose of Tullymullagh advance their love or destroy them? You must read it to find out.
September 2, 2017
The quest the Princess, Brianna, sends the brothers on is designed to get them away so she can help her father take back her home. Good intentions go awry when not everyone does what she wants. Use to getting her way, she now has to try and convince the one remaining brother to leave.
The two younger brothers, Burke, dad's favorite and Rowan head out. However, the oldest Luc, decided Brianna is too spoiled for him and would be happier with Burke. He stays behind and gets involved with a mystery. After hearing two people talking behind the barn he tried to unravel what they are after as well as the plot behind sending them out on the Bride Quest.
While Brianna believes LOVE can concur all, Luv believes it is ones Downfall. Now these two are getting to understand the fact as they know them and the harsh reality of life.
The two younger brothers, Burke, dad's favorite and Rowan head out. However, the oldest Luc, decided Brianna is too spoiled for him and would be happier with Burke. He stays behind and gets involved with a mystery. After hearing two people talking behind the barn he tried to unravel what they are after as well as the plot behind sending them out on the Bride Quest.
While Brianna believes LOVE can concur all, Luv believes it is ones Downfall. Now these two are getting to understand the fact as they know them and the harsh reality of life.
September 3, 2017
The Irish castle of Tullymullagh has been defeated by the English king. He has declared that the Princess Brianna must marry the son of the man who conquered it.
Brianna manages to set a condition of her own. The Bride Quest begins.
Luc Fitzgavin has been summoned to Ireland by his father. There is only one thing he wants from the man , and is certainly dies not include taking part in some pointless quest.
This quest is a lot of fun. Our heroine is used to getting all her own way, and when trouble starts she has her own way of dealing with it. Our hero is carrying a lot of emotional baggage . He will have to face up to what life is now, not bury himself any longer.
There is a murder, mystery to solve and lots of great characters. Many if them will surprise you. I loved it.
Brianna manages to set a condition of her own. The Bride Quest begins.
Luc Fitzgavin has been summoned to Ireland by his father. There is only one thing he wants from the man , and is certainly dies not include taking part in some pointless quest.
This quest is a lot of fun. Our heroine is used to getting all her own way, and when trouble starts she has her own way of dealing with it. Our hero is carrying a lot of emotional baggage . He will have to face up to what life is now, not bury himself any longer.
There is a murder, mystery to solve and lots of great characters. Many if them will surprise you. I loved it.
November 8, 2017
This was a well-written, fantastic book. Princess Brianna is determined to marry for love, even when her father's holding is conquered and the king decrees that she must wed one of the victor’s sons. She adds a challenge that only the son who brings a gift that makes her laugh will win her hand. Luc refuses to participate in the quest, because he knows his life has no place for a princess. I enjoyed reading about the development of the relationship between Brianna and Luc. This book can be read as a standalone story, though it is Book 1 of The Bride Quest series, with related characters. This was a great book and I look forward to reading more books in this series as well as other books by this author. A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion.
August 12, 2018
Another wonderful tale by one of my favorite authors.
Years ago I read the damsel the second book in the series and I love it I looked & never could find the rest of the series untill now I have now read the princess and I loved it it was just as good as the damsel I highly recommend this series to anyone interested in medieval romance itsfunneh it's surprising it's romantic and above all it's a fairy tale retold the princess who couldn't laugh I couldn't put it down. There are times it made me laugh there are times made me want to cry Love of All it just entertained what building was rich and unique with no gaps and it seemed historically accurate I truly felt I had went to Medieval Ireland.
Years ago I read the damsel the second book in the series and I love it I looked & never could find the rest of the series untill now I have now read the princess and I loved it it was just as good as the damsel I highly recommend this series to anyone interested in medieval romance itsfunneh it's surprising it's romantic and above all it's a fairy tale retold the princess who couldn't laugh I couldn't put it down. There are times it made me laugh there are times made me want to cry Love of All it just entertained what building was rich and unique with no gaps and it seemed historically accurate I truly felt I had went to Medieval Ireland.
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