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Bride Quest #5
The Beauty
Certain that she will never wed for love, sworn to let no man possess her for her beauty alone, Jacqueline de Crevy has vowed to become a bride of God. But en route to the convent of Inveresbeinn, her party is ambushed by a knight, who snatches Jacqueline from her saddle and spirits her away with him.
He is Angus MacGillivray -- not the blackhearted ravisher she fears but a valiant man of honor who has returned to Scotland seeking justice ... and revenge.
Angus has come home from the Crusades to find his family murdered and his birthright seized. Sworn to reclaim his rightful lands, he has kidnapped the stepdaughter of Duncan, chieftain of Clan MacQuarrie -- Angus's avowed enemy. But his lovely captive refuses to be the chattel -- or ransom -- of any man ... until Jacqueline senses the yearning heart beneath Angus's embittered facade.
In spite of himself, Angus has let this defiant beauty touch his very soul. And as desire flames between them, a lady fair and her battle-scarred knight will fight for a love that could banish all the sorrows of the past....
He is Angus MacGillivray -- not the blackhearted ravisher she fears but a valiant man of honor who has returned to Scotland seeking justice ... and revenge.
Angus has come home from the Crusades to find his family murdered and his birthright seized. Sworn to reclaim his rightful lands, he has kidnapped the stepdaughter of Duncan, chieftain of Clan MacQuarrie -- Angus's avowed enemy. But his lovely captive refuses to be the chattel -- or ransom -- of any man ... until Jacqueline senses the yearning heart beneath Angus's embittered facade.
In spite of himself, Angus has let this defiant beauty touch his very soul. And as desire flames between them, a lady fair and her battle-scarred knight will fight for a love that could banish all the sorrows of the past....
Unknown Binding
First published January 1, 1997
About the author
Claire Delacroix
131 books525 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:
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...
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Subscribe to her monthly newsletter to keep up to date and receive special offers:
http://eepurl.com/reIuD
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 65 reviews
June 29, 2015
The Beauty was brilliantly written, with lovable characters. Jacqueline was a great heroine. Wise beyond her years, she knew better than to be daunted by Angus' scarred and disfigured form. She herself was a victim of her appearance, and she knew that what mattered most was a person's character. I respected her for that, and with how she bravely and openly gave Angus her love.
And Angus. Oh, my. He was kind and honourable to a fault. I'm usually reluctant to read medieval stories because the heroes were normally of the brutish, bodice-ripper variety, but Angus was different. His tenderness and naïveté may come off as anachronistic, but I'm more than willing to overlook that since he was such a loveable guy. He's the kind of guy a girl dreams of. UGH LET ME HAVE YOUR BABIES, ANGUS.
I withheld a star from this because I felt like the ending was lacking. I would have wanted a better HEA for Angus and Jacqueline, especially after all they've been through. I also thought that the denouement was rushed, while the story, as a whole, was too long and filled with a few unnecessary scenes. The heat level was another issue; it was tepid at best. It was frustrating because they both had such great chemistry, you would think that air itself would sizzle when they made love. But alas, it was not so.
Despite these flaws, the book still managed to shine brightly. It made me so happy I wanted to dance after reading it.
And Angus. Oh, my. He was kind and honourable to a fault. I'm usually reluctant to read medieval stories because the heroes were normally of the brutish, bodice-ripper variety, but Angus was different. His tenderness and naïveté may come off as anachronistic, but I'm more than willing to overlook that since he was such a loveable guy. He's the kind of guy a girl dreams of. UGH LET ME HAVE YOUR BABIES, ANGUS.
I withheld a star from this because I felt like the ending was lacking. I would have wanted a better HEA for Angus and Jacqueline, especially after all they've been through. I also thought that the denouement was rushed, while the story, as a whole, was too long and filled with a few unnecessary scenes. The heat level was another issue; it was tepid at best. It was frustrating because they both had such great chemistry, you would think that air itself would sizzle when they made love. But alas, it was not so.
Despite these flaws, the book still managed to shine brightly. It made me so happy I wanted to dance after reading it.
August 3, 2015
Once the action got going this story was riveting. But mostly it was slow going. I question the character of a heroine who uses the excuse: I'd rather go against my long held beliefs in order to not miss out on what it means to be with a man. And I question the character of a hero who gives in to his hormones AND THEN claims he's too honorable to force her to marry him.
I'm reading a trio of this author's works contained in an e-book so I'll keep reading but not impressed so far.
I'm reading a trio of this author's works contained in an e-book so I'll keep reading but not impressed so far.
October 8, 2023
"The Beauty" by Claire Delacroix is the story of Jacqueline, the beautiful daughter of Eglantine. Eglantine had gone to great lengths to ensure that her daughters would be able to marry for love. Jacqueline was both afraid of men and annoyed with them because they only saw her beauty. She decided to commit her life to becoming a nun, much to her mother's dismay. On her way to the convent, she is taken hostage by Angus MacGillivrey so that he can gain the claim to Airdfinnan his families home. Jacqueline's keen mind, curiosity, and sunny disposition helped Angus move past his dark past. But is it enough to see them make a happy marriage, or will Jacqueline end up in the convent? I enjoyed this story and its conclusion.
September 1, 2009
This almost became one of my favorite HRs of all time. The characters were wonderful, the story engaging with unexpected plot turns that kept it interesting. I especially loved that there was no deceit, lies etc. coming between the H/H as so often is the case. Jacqueline (heroine) is honest, kind and forthright with just enough fire to make her interesting. Angus (hero), a knight, is honorable and strong yet tender. So why not 5 stars? Jacqueline states her love for Angus numerous times with the expectation that he will reciprocate (as his actions show.) The reader waits with baited breath for that final scene when all becomes right and, after a 6 month separation, he finally stands before her to tell her he's missed her and proceeds to tell her of what he's accomplished in order to care for her...That's IT? That's ALL?!?! After much prodding from her, he states (oh, yeah)he loves her. Nothing about how or what HIS heart has been going through in their absence, how he has felt about HER...and MAN, I wanted to know! Stink, I also wanted those 5 stars!
June 19, 2011
I did love this book. It had all the action and adventure elements that I enjoy, a sweet and compelling love story, and finally, a happy ending.
I found our scarred hero and beautiful heroine equally likeable. I'm a complete sucker for the wounded/battle scarred warrior, and Angus definitely fit the bill.
Completely enjoyable read -- 4.5 stars.
I'm excited to read more from Claire Delacroix.
I found our scarred hero and beautiful heroine equally likeable. I'm a complete sucker for the wounded/battle scarred warrior, and Angus definitely fit the bill.
Completely enjoyable read -- 4.5 stars.
I'm excited to read more from Claire Delacroix.
October 17, 2023
I only hate when the hero abandoned her in the covent for 6 months
August 11, 2026
... I think I'd categorize this as a reimagining of BATB... with a medieval fairy tale vibe (gallant knight and all. And yes, I we'll get to him 👀).
Gotta love how action packed and angst were just joined at the hip for this one. Angst is key to any BATB interpretation and Angus kidnapping the chieftain's daughter he blames for the demise of his own family is pretty up there for me. Jaqueline's mother throwing a mock funeral for her daughter who's chosen convent life for the wrong reason felt like it would fit perfectly in a dark comedy. Even her stepfather is like "Honey, isn't this a little much?". But I love that her mother is the only one (besides Angus) that recognizes Jaqueline hasn't healed from her S.A. by the hands of the old toad (her name for him) chosen by her parents. How she'd rather hide herself away than look for the good in real people who could love her for her. Jaqueline's also got some hot takes for the time on beauty and the men who marry simply for it; how she believes his affections are fleeting because beauty itself does too. Also, Fuck You again to the old toad who wouldn't talk to her, but at her, and thought her something to be won/possessed by him rather than her own person. You go, girl, far away from him.
Angus has some emotional growing up to do as well. He realizes he's got no right to be angry/frustrated at Jaqueline because after hearing her story, he's just as bad as the old toad. I loved how he apologizes for inadvertently reminding her of the old toad by having bound her hands for the early journey. But he more than makes up for it by letting her ride astride 😜🫦. That might be the sweetest scene in a medieval historical romance. So much realizing for them both, slowing down for each other. I love that he has to come to terms with her loving him despite his appearances/early actions (that moment when she wakes up to him sleeping and caresses/observes his missing eye/scarring instead of being repulsed by it... my 🩷🥹).
The lack of full-five is from the big bad/another kidnapping towards the end. Kinda tedious read for that bit 🙄.
And I know I've said BATB, but let's take a moment to appreciate the fairy tale/Hades & Persephone vibe. His black steed named Lucifer, whom is the one leading the charge when he steals her from the carriage, his jet black attire to her golden locks and making him smile again! Come on.
But the ending lines of her saying "I'm not the best wife, for I'm not obedient, but I'll make up for it by being chaste" and he's like "Well, then I'll just have to make sure you don't succeed there", I was well past breaking my 100 pages a day rule.
Gotta love how action packed and angst were just joined at the hip for this one. Angst is key to any BATB interpretation and Angus kidnapping the chieftain's daughter he blames for the demise of his own family is pretty up there for me. Jaqueline's mother throwing a mock funeral for her daughter who's chosen convent life for the wrong reason felt like it would fit perfectly in a dark comedy. Even her stepfather is like "Honey, isn't this a little much?". But I love that her mother is the only one (besides Angus) that recognizes Jaqueline hasn't healed from her S.A. by the hands of the old toad (her name for him) chosen by her parents. How she'd rather hide herself away than look for the good in real people who could love her for her. Jaqueline's also got some hot takes for the time on beauty and the men who marry simply for it; how she believes his affections are fleeting because beauty itself does too. Also, Fuck You again to the old toad who wouldn't talk to her, but at her, and thought her something to be won/possessed by him rather than her own person. You go, girl, far away from him.
Angus has some emotional growing up to do as well. He realizes he's got no right to be angry/frustrated at Jaqueline because after hearing her story, he's just as bad as the old toad. I loved how he apologizes for inadvertently reminding her of the old toad by having bound her hands for the early journey. But he more than makes up for it by letting her ride astride 😜🫦. That might be the sweetest scene in a medieval historical romance. So much realizing for them both, slowing down for each other. I love that he has to come to terms with her loving him despite his appearances/early actions (that moment when she wakes up to him sleeping and caresses/observes his missing eye/scarring instead of being repulsed by it... my 🩷🥹).
The lack of full-five is from the big bad/another kidnapping towards the end. Kinda tedious read for that bit 🙄.
And I know I've said BATB, but let's take a moment to appreciate the fairy tale/Hades & Persephone vibe. His black steed named Lucifer, whom is the one leading the charge when he steals her from the carriage, his jet black attire to her golden locks and making him smile again! Come on.
But the ending lines of her saying "I'm not the best wife, for I'm not obedient, but I'll make up for it by being chaste" and he's like "Well, then I'll just have to make sure you don't succeed there", I was well past breaking my 100 pages a day rule.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2021
A well told tale with a thoughtful HEA
This is a twisty tale that wends its way to a happy ending on the female’s terms. Both the male and female protagonists are head strong and wrong about things, but together they balance out each other’s flaws. The heroine is a mixture of innocence, curiosity and gumption. The hero is a scarred, somewhat bitter, and honorable kidnapper who enjoys teasing and flirting.
I have not read any other books in this series, but this one can be read as a standalone as the references to secondary characters are sufficient and relevant, as opposed to current trends to mention a host of characters in a shallow gimmicky effort to sell other books.
The central characters, while multifaceted, are well developed, believable, and quite likable (except the true villain, of course). Relationships are healthy and mutually respectful.
The setting at times could use a few more details, like the river is first described as a stream, but then it’s deep enough to plunge into and be swept away. There is a lovely mixture of Christian and pagan theology, historical references to the crusades, and accurate details about horses. I especially enjoyed the details about the garden and the burial beliefs.
There are scenes of mild peril, sex scenes, a violent melee with slashing and stabbing, and references to torture in a dungeon, murders, and suicide. No worse than what’s on tv these days.
I recommend this book to older readers who enjoy action and adventure mixed with some fairy tale qualities in their romance stories.
This is a twisty tale that wends its way to a happy ending on the female’s terms. Both the male and female protagonists are head strong and wrong about things, but together they balance out each other’s flaws. The heroine is a mixture of innocence, curiosity and gumption. The hero is a scarred, somewhat bitter, and honorable kidnapper who enjoys teasing and flirting.
I have not read any other books in this series, but this one can be read as a standalone as the references to secondary characters are sufficient and relevant, as opposed to current trends to mention a host of characters in a shallow gimmicky effort to sell other books.
The central characters, while multifaceted, are well developed, believable, and quite likable (except the true villain, of course). Relationships are healthy and mutually respectful.
The setting at times could use a few more details, like the river is first described as a stream, but then it’s deep enough to plunge into and be swept away. There is a lovely mixture of Christian and pagan theology, historical references to the crusades, and accurate details about horses. I especially enjoyed the details about the garden and the burial beliefs.
There are scenes of mild peril, sex scenes, a violent melee with slashing and stabbing, and references to torture in a dungeon, murders, and suicide. No worse than what’s on tv these days.
I recommend this book to older readers who enjoy action and adventure mixed with some fairy tale qualities in their romance stories.
November 17, 2019
Wow this is one heck of a good story and good main characters chemistry.. It's so satisfying to read and I feel like my hunger for good romance has ben feed with abundance. Well if readers could pass the struggle of some redundant in story telling, one can enjoy it immensely.
I adore the heroine so much like reaaaaallly much! Despite her dark past she had manage to breakthrough with it and found love she never thought she would. Thisnis a story of two people who deeply struggled with their past. Past that so dark that it won't easily heal but with each others help and understanding both the h and H were slowly being healed.
I adore the heroine so much like reaaaaallly much! Despite her dark past she had manage to breakthrough with it and found love she never thought she would. Thisnis a story of two people who deeply struggled with their past. Past that so dark that it won't easily heal but with each others help and understanding both the h and H were slowly being healed.
October 14, 2019
Good twist
This one is slow to get going. Up to about 30% is spent messing about in a forest but I didn't find it tiresome. The last 2/3rd made up for it and end with a couple of good twists. Plus as always I loved the description of the destrider.i have read 20 of this authors books in 5 weeks and think they are very good.
This one is slow to get going. Up to about 30% is spent messing about in a forest but I didn't find it tiresome. The last 2/3rd made up for it and end with a couple of good twists. Plus as always I loved the description of the destrider.i have read 20 of this authors books in 5 weeks and think they are very good.
September 18, 2021
I gave a sigh of relief at the end of the book because I was beginning to give up hope of getting my desired outcome! Angus and Jacqueline’s relationship is very complex. Both characters are interesting as are their interactions with one another. It is nice to meet up with Duncan and Eglantine again.
October 6, 2023
Her chosen life
Jacqueline , was giving up on love of a good man, she made the choice to become a bride of Christ. But on the way to the convent, she is kidnapped,by Angus ,a man seeking revenge. But neither knows that love will bind
Them stronger than revenge or the convent.
Thank you ❤️
Jacqueline , was giving up on love of a good man, she made the choice to become a bride of Christ. But on the way to the convent, she is kidnapped,by Angus ,a man seeking revenge. But neither knows that love will bind
Them stronger than revenge or the convent.
Thank you ❤️
November 3, 2023
unusual
Set during the period of the Crusades, this romance is soft and not explicit. The writing is lovely and the pacing of the plot is good. Unfortunately, I have trouble believing that the heroine can fall in love with her abductor in three days. However, if one suspends that disbelief (it is, after all, a romance!), the story is very enjoyable.
Set during the period of the Crusades, this romance is soft and not explicit. The writing is lovely and the pacing of the plot is good. Unfortunately, I have trouble believing that the heroine can fall in love with her abductor in three days. However, if one suspends that disbelief (it is, after all, a romance!), the story is very enjoyable.
August 10, 2021
Heroine wants to go to a convent. Hero wants his family's property back, and he decides kidnapping the heroine and holding her hostage will get her father to cough it up. Except she's not who he thinks she is, and the situation is very complicated and unexpected. I liked it. Good read.
January 11, 2024
Once again a home
This is a truly entertaining medieval historical romance. He had been gone for 15 years and no one recognized him as the heir to the castle. He would fight to retrieve his due. But first he must kidnap his enemies daughter. What a great read!
This is a truly entertaining medieval historical romance. He had been gone for 15 years and no one recognized him as the heir to the castle. He would fight to retrieve his due. But first he must kidnap his enemies daughter. What a great read!
April 15, 2024
Really enjoyed this! One aspect I have really appreciated in this series is that Delacroix has heros who are Alphas but not Alpha-holes. They may be brusk, grumpy, or moody, but they treat the heroines kindly (even when abducting them for ransom, lol). Really loved Jacqueline and Angus!
January 24, 2025
A real page-turner
This is a real page-turner, I could not put it down. The characters are strong and the plot compelling. A fine installment of the series. Looking forward to the next book. Recommended for fans of the genre and the series.
This is a real page-turner, I could not put it down. The characters are strong and the plot compelling. A fine installment of the series. Looking forward to the next book. Recommended for fans of the genre and the series.
June 4, 2025
While I enjoyed the writing style and vivid descriptions, I think the narrative could be more compelling with fewer digressions and a bit more focus on driving the plot forward.
The concept is strong, but I found myself losing interest in places where the plot seemed to stall or take detours.
The concept is strong, but I found myself losing interest in places where the plot seemed to stall or take detours.
July 23, 2017
Extremely slow moving.
April 20, 2018
Claire keeps you engaged the whole way through
October 16, 2018
A wonderful light read, cried happy tears at the end.
June 16, 2020
My favorite so far in the series!
I loved the characters ( I always do). The storyline was captivating. Strong females throughout the story. It is a great read.
I loved the characters ( I always do). The storyline was captivating. Strong females throughout the story. It is a great read.
February 13, 2021
Enjoyable Scottish tale with Knights of the Crusade, their wars, the lady who needs to be rescued in more than one way, and who is in charge of what!
March 24, 2022
Another romantic adventure
Love the characters and enjoyed the story. As usual, Claire tells a wonderful romantic tale with a mysterious twist. Couldn't put it down.
Love the characters and enjoyed the story. As usual, Claire tells a wonderful romantic tale with a mysterious twist. Couldn't put it down.
April 16, 2022
A knight is betrayed
A damsel in distress saved
And yada, yada…
A damsel in distress saved
And yada, yada…
October 10, 2023
Interesting
The story had a few twists, almost as many as a Wisconsin back country road. It was a story that kept on giving an entertaining.
The story had a few twists, almost as many as a Wisconsin back country road. It was a story that kept on giving an entertaining.
November 12, 2023
nice read
As always this story is mixed with romance, intrigue, action and romance along with a happy ever after union after all the dust is settled and overcome
As always this story is mixed with romance, intrigue, action and romance along with a happy ever after union after all the dust is settled and overcome
December 19, 2023
True illustrative summary. Plans are made, then changed. People wish to mean the specific outcomes they would choose in life, and another set of sequences sorts what they ought to commit to.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews