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Defiant Surrender
Unlucky in love, Maddie St. Clair hides behind an antique store and her mudlarking hobby. That is until she finds a medieval ring that throws her back to 1102 Cumberland and into the life of Lady Madeline Vincent, heiress to Norman lands and about to be married to an autocratic Baron, William Dowell, nine hundred years her senior. Lord William Dowell protects his own. Usually, from his closest neighbor and long standing foe the Baron of Aimecourt. Forced to marry his dead enemy
318 pages, Paperback
First published August 25, 2013
396 people are currently reading
1879 people want to read
About the author
Tamara Gill
140 books1,012 followersTamara is an Australian author who grew up in an old mining town in country South Australia, where her love of history was founded. She loves to write romance novels in an array of genres, including regency, medieval, and time travel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
February 21, 2019
2.35*
We Time Travel all the way to 1102 (from 2011!) for a typical medieval/Norman/highlander plot in all its tropey formulaic glory.
So, the generic stuff we get >>
A forced moc between a hopping mad H and his enemy’s daughter - brought about by one of those busybody kings.
The H has an evil and skanky mistress living right there in his castle/keep. The marriage remains unconsummated while he's in cahoots and maybe-maybe-not also in bed with the ow.
The h is this benevolent, sensible woman who slowly wins over the cool and wary new people of hers. And wins over has some strong loyalties too.
The H, even after thawing and (over)-warming towards his wife, refuses to see the ow for what she is - evil and manipulative and vengeful. His blindness is enough to induce some serious teeth gnashing in the reader. And earn him a ‘reigning retard’ sash.
And, yes, suddenly mysterious marauders start roaming the forest wreaking whatever. But pssst, they are not those Scots!
The h is injured, barely saved. The H becomes more devoted, leading to a late consummation. But the ow stays!
The ow calls in secret and not so secret reinforcements. She’s batshit crazy, man.
And its’s serious war/mayhem now!
Back to this specific book >>
We Time Travel all the way to 1102 (from 2011!) for a typical medieval/Norman/highlander plot in all its tropey formulaic glory.
So, the generic stuff we get >>
A forced moc between a hopping mad H and his enemy’s daughter - brought about by one of those busybody kings.
The H has an evil and skanky mistress living right there in his castle/keep. The marriage remains unconsummated while he's in cahoots and maybe-maybe-not also in bed with the ow.
The h is this benevolent, sensible woman who slowly wins over the cool and wary new people of hers. And wins over has some strong loyalties too.
The H, even after thawing and (over)-warming towards his wife, refuses to see the ow for what she is - evil and manipulative and vengeful. His blindness is enough to induce some serious teeth gnashing in the reader. And earn him a ‘reigning retard’ sash.
And, yes, suddenly mysterious marauders start roaming the forest wreaking whatever. But pssst, they are not those Scots!
The h is injured, barely saved. The H becomes more devoted, leading to a late consummation. But the ow stays!
The ow calls in secret and not so secret reinforcements. She’s batshit crazy, man.
And its’s serious war/mayhem now!
Back to this specific book >>
March 24, 2014
I expect a certain kind of hero in historical books. The hero protects and demands respect for a lady who is his wife.
The king ordered Lord William and Lady Madeline to marry and bring peace to their adjoining lands. Maddy travels back and replaces Madeline on her wedding day. She finds that her new husband keeps his mistress down the hall from their rooms. He didn't care at first because their marriage was forced on him..I get that... but after he decides he wants a relationship and the mistress is the problem, he doesn't explain she's an ex-mistress and still keeps her near. Away visiting her family castle, things start to go well but he then lets the mistress show up and stay even though the heroine had told him no way was the mistress to come and humiliate her there.
I gave up reading the book when the mistress hit the heroine bruising her face and blackening her eye and he says he'll have a TALK with the mistress so she won't do it again and the heroine now starts to warm towards him.
The king ordered Lord William and Lady Madeline to marry and bring peace to their adjoining lands. Maddy travels back and replaces Madeline on her wedding day. She finds that her new husband keeps his mistress down the hall from their rooms. He didn't care at first because their marriage was forced on him..I get that... but after he decides he wants a relationship and the mistress is the problem, he doesn't explain she's an ex-mistress and still keeps her near. Away visiting her family castle, things start to go well but he then lets the mistress show up and stay even though the heroine had told him no way was the mistress to come and humiliate her there.
I gave up reading the book when the mistress hit the heroine bruising her face and blackening her eye and he says he'll have a TALK with the mistress so she won't do it again and the heroine now starts to warm towards him.
March 25, 2024
This came up as a crazy OW recommendation, and the evil ex-mistress Lady Veronica is CERTIFIABLE. I gobbled it up, but I enjoyed it as a drama-llama read. There aren't any real angsty feels, and the romance part takes a while to get going.
Madeline is living unhappily and lonely in 2011 when she finds a ring that sends her back to 1102. Where she’s Lady Madeline, heir of Aimecourt on her way to marry Lord William Dowell of Kingston. She quickly figures out the situation is less than desirable.
The Good
🟩 I LOVE a reluctant/bitter groom that has been forced to marry. William HATES her in the beginning and is so mean.
🟩 I LOVE a deranged/manipulating OW, and this crazy biatch gets plenty of page time to terrorize the h.
🟩 I LOVE a heroine that has some fight in her, and Madeline pushes back to William and Veronica many times.
🟩 I LOVE that he dispatched comeuppance mercilessly and swiftly to those that wronged them. I hate when they get wishy washy with the punishment.
The not-so Good
❌ I do enjoy a clueless H, but William was a little too oblivious at times and allowed Veronica to get away with too much.
❌ IMO, the twist at the end (villain unveiling) was very obvious. It’s pretty much spelled out in the prologue, so that wasn’t super exciting.
❌ There were some plot holes and skipped bits regarding to the time traveling.
Bottom Line- I liked it, but you really need to be in the mood for a soapier plot rather than swoony romance vibes or emotional feels. He’s definitely a jerk, but they are strangers and Madeline is never really dying inside.
Safety -
Madeline is living unhappily and lonely in 2011 when she finds a ring that sends her back to 1102. Where she’s Lady Madeline, heir of Aimecourt on her way to marry Lord William Dowell of Kingston. She quickly figures out the situation is less than desirable.
The Good
🟩 I LOVE a reluctant/bitter groom that has been forced to marry. William HATES her in the beginning and is so mean.
🟩 I LOVE a deranged/manipulating OW, and this crazy biatch gets plenty of page time to terrorize the h.
🟩 I LOVE a heroine that has some fight in her, and Madeline pushes back to William and Veronica many times.
🟩 I LOVE that he dispatched comeuppance mercilessly and swiftly to those that wronged them. I hate when they get wishy washy with the punishment.
The not-so Good
❌ I do enjoy a clueless H, but William was a little too oblivious at times and allowed Veronica to get away with too much.
❌ IMO, the twist at the end (villain unveiling) was very obvious. It’s pretty much spelled out in the prologue, so that wasn’t super exciting.
❌ There were some plot holes and skipped bits regarding to the time traveling.
Bottom Line- I liked it, but you really need to be in the mood for a soapier plot rather than swoony romance vibes or emotional feels. He’s definitely a jerk, but they are strangers and Madeline is never really dying inside.
Safety -
May 30, 2015
This was a great love story, although it took a while to get to that level. William was just so ignorant and uncaring in the beginning. And Madeline just went with the flow a little too much. She allowed situations to occur in her and her husband's houses that had me thinking, 'This is where you need to cut a bitch.' But moving on from my violent thoughts... When things got better between them, they were so sweet and dedicated to each other. Then they finally uhh... consummated the marriage (which I had been pining for, but it was worth the wait). The ending was tragic, but I got my happy ever after so I was able to put the tissues away.
May 16, 2015
A charming and delightful 4.5 stars goes to Defiant Surrender. I adored how the novel mixed old and new to bring forth the ultimate love story. I tend to tread cautiously with these kinds of stories but Tamara Gill completely smashed this with her talented writing and darling characters.
Madeline ends up being transported from 2011 to 1102 into another Madeline's body who is about to marry a Baron, William Dowell. William is cold, angry, and cruel towards Madeline which ensures she strongly dislikes him. Madeline is quite modern in both her beliefs and her tongue, which she cannot seem to hold at all in William's presence. The two go back and forth until William begins to see Madeline is charming, sensitive, and compassionate.
Madeline is nothing like woman whose body she currently inhabits which allows for William and Madeline to fall into one another. They push at one another, make each other burn, and ultimately consume each other. William is bold, compassionate, possessive, and accepting. When forces beyond their control rip them from one another it is one of the most heartbreaking parts of the book.
In order to not ruin the book I must leave off. I will say I immensely enjoyed the read and it held me ensnared almost immediately. I loved both William and Madeline, both together and as separate individuals. The plot was handled well and developed while the characters grew. I'm going to look for more books by Tamara Gill now for she has quite thoroughly pleased my senses.
Madeline ends up being transported from 2011 to 1102 into another Madeline's body who is about to marry a Baron, William Dowell. William is cold, angry, and cruel towards Madeline which ensures she strongly dislikes him. Madeline is quite modern in both her beliefs and her tongue, which she cannot seem to hold at all in William's presence. The two go back and forth until William begins to see Madeline is charming, sensitive, and compassionate.
Madeline is nothing like woman whose body she currently inhabits which allows for William and Madeline to fall into one another. They push at one another, make each other burn, and ultimately consume each other. William is bold, compassionate, possessive, and accepting. When forces beyond their control rip them from one another it is one of the most heartbreaking parts of the book.
In order to not ruin the book I must leave off. I will say I immensely enjoyed the read and it held me ensnared almost immediately. I loved both William and Madeline, both together and as separate individuals. The plot was handled well and developed while the characters grew. I'm going to look for more books by Tamara Gill now for she has quite thoroughly pleased my senses.
December 9, 2012
Another time travel from Tamara Gill – Defiant Surrender begins with a heart-wrenching interaction between a ruthless lord and his mistress which sets a series of dangerous events in motion. The modern day heroine, Maddie, is a quiet lover of antiques whose favorite past time is scavenging in the mud for items of value, preferably very old ones. She finds a box with a ring in it inscribed with the names of two lovers – one coincidentally the same as her own. When she slips it on, she suddenly finds herself thrown from the year 2011 back to the year 1102 and about to enter into an arranged marriage to an ogre of a man.
We are pulled into a time of danger, intrigue, adultery, witch hunts and unremitting passion. The hero, Lord William is the archetypal warrior whose strength and unyielding determination leaves you breathless. The twists and turns that eventually bring us to the end are indicative of the author’s vivid imagination and skill. I highly recommend this book to lovers of time travel and lovers of love!
We are pulled into a time of danger, intrigue, adultery, witch hunts and unremitting passion. The hero, Lord William is the archetypal warrior whose strength and unyielding determination leaves you breathless. The twists and turns that eventually bring us to the end are indicative of the author’s vivid imagination and skill. I highly recommend this book to lovers of time travel and lovers of love!
May 15, 2013
I liked it - especially the third half - but I felt it could've been better.
I didn't like how quickly things changed between Maddie and William. They went from really hating each other to jumping into bed together. I would have liked to see things progress more slowly and have them develop a real friendship first. Also, the sex scenes were a little too descriptive for my taste. Sometimes they weren't even all that sexy, imo. All the mentions of "manhood", "womanhood", "his member", "his jewels", etcs ... it just got annoying. I've read books (and even fanfics) that were hotter than this without even going TOO deep into details. But hey, maybe that's just me. I also felt the ending was a little rushed, but other than that it was a nice/light read. I like how the author handled the whole time travel thing.
I'd rec it to anyone who enjoys time travel romances with a happy ending!
I didn't like how quickly things changed between Maddie and William. They went from really hating each other to jumping into bed together. I would have liked to see things progress more slowly and have them develop a real friendship first. Also, the sex scenes were a little too descriptive for my taste. Sometimes they weren't even all that sexy, imo. All the mentions of "manhood", "womanhood", "his member", "his jewels", etcs ... it just got annoying. I've read books (and even fanfics) that were hotter than this without even going TOO deep into details. But hey, maybe that's just me. I also felt the ending was a little rushed, but other than that it was a nice/light read. I like how the author handled the whole time travel thing.
I'd rec it to anyone who enjoys time travel romances with a happy ending!
January 12, 2013
A great read, particularly the last third.
May 17, 2015
Rated 4.5!
I adored the book A Stolen Season by Tamara Gill and when I saw this book, I was really excited to read it. It takes place in medieval England which is a time period that is not often covered in historical romance novels. I found it fascinating to read about the time of Henry I and the customs of the people. Maddie has travelled back in time and inhabited the body of Lady Madeline who is on her way to be married. This starts a very interesting story.
Maddie’s life in modern times is interesting, if not lonely. She has no family and has lost her cheating fiancé. While she has her dream antique store and has strong friendships, life is missing something for her. I found it fascinating that she was part of the Thames Mudlarking group. Mudlarking is when a group scour the shores and banks of the Thames for foreign objects and historical treasures. When she finds a beautiful pewter ring, it is the gateway to the past.
She finds herself in a carriage on her way to be married. She smacks her head, which is convenient so that she can claim amnesia as she has no idea where she is and what is happening around her. She meets the groom and finds him to be an attractive man, but the fact that he despises her is shocking.
The relationship between Maddie and William is challenging. Maddie is at a distinct disadvantage since she knows nothing about the time she has landed and the woman’s body she inhabits. While she looks like herself, nothing else is the same. The woman she has replaced was basically a terror. Maddie has to be careful not to reveal too much change in personality lest she be challenged and accused of something – which would display weakness. Maddie is responsible for Amiecourt, a large castle with a strong economy. She has enemies and has to maintain her grip on command as Amiecourt is hers and not Williams.
William may be handsome; he is a grade A asshole for at least half of the book. He despises Lady Madeline and makes no bones about it. In fact, he keeps his mistress in open sight. She is a huge source of conflict between Maddie and William. Unlike many other stories, there is no consummation of the marriage and it hangs over the story. While they are both attracted to each other, family history, the mistress and personality get in the way.
William and Maddie remind me of porcupines. Prickly and hard to get close to. They constantly spar and fight which makes establishing a relationship really challenging. The back and forth didn’t get old, rather it seemed natural considering the situation they were in. I really loved the character of Maddie. She challenges William and is no meek and mild miss. She brings her twenty-first century ideals with her and demands the respect she deserves. Some of her one liners were hilarious!
Maddie comes to love living in 1103. She doesn’t want to return home, but she eventually finds the key to getting back to the future. Her love for William has consumed her and she would never willingly leave him. Of course there is danger to both of them since they are some of the strongest Baron’s in the land. They must face impossible choices. I literally held my breath and thought, ‘this can’t be it?!’ But since this is a romance novel, you can always count on the happily ever after. I thought the ending was so ingenious. That is what is great about time travel books; there is so much latitude for an author. Tamara Gill shows her creativity as an author with the way she crafts a satisfying ending.
A great time travel book to a period that was fascinating to explore. While some things could have been explored more to my liking (like Sir Alex’s motivations), I still felt very satisfied after reading this book. I really enjoy Tamara Gill’s writing and will continue to look for more of her time travel adventures as I think she does them exceptionally well.
I adored the book A Stolen Season by Tamara Gill and when I saw this book, I was really excited to read it. It takes place in medieval England which is a time period that is not often covered in historical romance novels. I found it fascinating to read about the time of Henry I and the customs of the people. Maddie has travelled back in time and inhabited the body of Lady Madeline who is on her way to be married. This starts a very interesting story.
Maddie’s life in modern times is interesting, if not lonely. She has no family and has lost her cheating fiancé. While she has her dream antique store and has strong friendships, life is missing something for her. I found it fascinating that she was part of the Thames Mudlarking group. Mudlarking is when a group scour the shores and banks of the Thames for foreign objects and historical treasures. When she finds a beautiful pewter ring, it is the gateway to the past.
She finds herself in a carriage on her way to be married. She smacks her head, which is convenient so that she can claim amnesia as she has no idea where she is and what is happening around her. She meets the groom and finds him to be an attractive man, but the fact that he despises her is shocking.
The relationship between Maddie and William is challenging. Maddie is at a distinct disadvantage since she knows nothing about the time she has landed and the woman’s body she inhabits. While she looks like herself, nothing else is the same. The woman she has replaced was basically a terror. Maddie has to be careful not to reveal too much change in personality lest she be challenged and accused of something – which would display weakness. Maddie is responsible for Amiecourt, a large castle with a strong economy. She has enemies and has to maintain her grip on command as Amiecourt is hers and not Williams.
William may be handsome; he is a grade A asshole for at least half of the book. He despises Lady Madeline and makes no bones about it. In fact, he keeps his mistress in open sight. She is a huge source of conflict between Maddie and William. Unlike many other stories, there is no consummation of the marriage and it hangs over the story. While they are both attracted to each other, family history, the mistress and personality get in the way.
William and Maddie remind me of porcupines. Prickly and hard to get close to. They constantly spar and fight which makes establishing a relationship really challenging. The back and forth didn’t get old, rather it seemed natural considering the situation they were in. I really loved the character of Maddie. She challenges William and is no meek and mild miss. She brings her twenty-first century ideals with her and demands the respect she deserves. Some of her one liners were hilarious!
Maddie comes to love living in 1103. She doesn’t want to return home, but she eventually finds the key to getting back to the future. Her love for William has consumed her and she would never willingly leave him. Of course there is danger to both of them since they are some of the strongest Baron’s in the land. They must face impossible choices. I literally held my breath and thought, ‘this can’t be it?!’ But since this is a romance novel, you can always count on the happily ever after. I thought the ending was so ingenious. That is what is great about time travel books; there is so much latitude for an author. Tamara Gill shows her creativity as an author with the way she crafts a satisfying ending.
A great time travel book to a period that was fascinating to explore. While some things could have been explored more to my liking (like Sir Alex’s motivations), I still felt very satisfied after reading this book. I really enjoy Tamara Gill’s writing and will continue to look for more of her time travel adventures as I think she does them exceptionally well.
April 4, 2015
A very memorable time-travel romance. The characters were well developed and enjoyable to get to know. I loved the "spunk" of this modern-day heroine who finds herself thrown into the 12th century. The plot was entertaining with some excitement, danger, and romance. The banter between the hero and heroine was the most fun with witty dialogue and humorous scenes. The only weakness was the under- developed and superficial beginning where the story describes the path of the heroine up to the point of the time-travel itself. It felt rushed and too unbelievable really. The cause and effect could have been better laid out or led into more smoothly. Otherwise, I would highly recommend this romance and this author.
January 24, 2015
Maddie is living her life in 2011 and in an instant is whisked off into 1102 and on her way to her future husband! This was such a beautiful story. I loved Maddie right away. Her contemporary mind trying to fit into 1102. Somtime you can help some of the things she says and everyone thinks she's a little off. I loved this story and the twists and turns that Gill put into her story I didn't see coming! The story exciting, intriguing, sexy, and so loving. I was NOT expecting that ending. Gill ended the story perfectly and I can't wait to read more from Gill.
July 19, 2014
I received a free copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this story, I'm not usually a big fan of historical romance but I love paranormal. This was a wonderful mix of old and new. I could imagine being sent back in time and trying to cope with life with none of the modern things we taken for granted, not to mention arrogant men and nasty mistresses.
A really good, quick read. Highly recommended.
I really enjoyed this story, I'm not usually a big fan of historical romance but I love paranormal. This was a wonderful mix of old and new. I could imagine being sent back in time and trying to cope with life with none of the modern things we taken for granted, not to mention arrogant men and nasty mistresses.
A really good, quick read. Highly recommended.
November 2, 2012
I really liked this book!
Received an ARC and was done in 2 days!
It had a few twists & turns that I wasn't expecting! Kept me guessing up to the end!
I started off not really wanting to like the hero but he more than grew on me!
The characters are strong with several supporting characters as well.
Five stars Tamara:))) another "Great Read"!! Thank you!!
Received an ARC and was done in 2 days!
It had a few twists & turns that I wasn't expecting! Kept me guessing up to the end!
I started off not really wanting to like the hero but he more than grew on me!
The characters are strong with several supporting characters as well.
Five stars Tamara:))) another "Great Read"!! Thank you!!
November 30, 2015
Who does not want to travel back in time and find and meet a handsome Lord? I know I do. When Maddie finds a ring and is tossed back into time, she finds herself at the hands of a Lord. There is an attraction and want between the two. But for a modern woman, can a man who is use taking care of and protecting, and being in charge give Maddie all she needs?
October 9, 2019
I've read this book over and over and really love the two main MC. I've always loved time travel romance where the female MC is zapped back into the past and into another woman's body. The other woman was evil and twisted and suddenly is awesome and amazing. I don't think I'll ever stop rereading it and hope to find more books like this from the author.
July 14, 2015
Book Review- Defiant Surrender by Tamara Gill
Madaline owns an antique shop and considers herself an independent woman. Little does she know that it is going to be tested. One day along the shore of the Thames River she finds a box containing a pewter ring with the names Willelm and Madaline. She is shocked and instantly intrigued. She is also drawn to it wanting to put it on her finger. She fights the feeling as long as she can. But alas the draw proves to be too much.
Once she places the ring on her finger she is thrown into the year 1102. She lands in a carriage bound for her wedding. She is now the Lady Madaline of Aimecourt Castle. She is set to marry Lord William Dowell, Baron of Kingston. The marriage was arranged by their parents and supported by King Henry.
As it turns out William has no desire to marry Madaline. The woman is considered heartless and a tyrant. His plan is they will marry in name only. He becomes a brute forcing her at knife point to marry him. Madaline is shocked at the turn of events and is determined to find the ring hoping it will return her home. She enlists her lady maid for help.
Madaline makes the best of her situation. She shows kindness to her people and tries to embrace the life she was dropped into. William and his mistress, the Lady Veronica de Walter, are the only negative aspects. He makes a fool of her and treats her horribly. She is more determined to go home.
However as time goes on, William witnesses Madaline with her own people. Her friendliness and kindness is shocking. She is nothing what he thought. His feelings for her change and grow stronger. He is determined to have her for a proper wife. Madaline and William settle into their lives but are unaware of the plotting that goes on. Jealousy and revenge is driving those that want to destroy them both. Madaline will be forced to make a heartbreaking choice.
I absolutely love time traveling stories. I’ve been hooked for a long time and this book didn’t disappoint. I immediately liked Madaline. She was thrown into an impossible situation. William treated her horribly and I wanted to strangle him. She just continued being herself and made the best of it. She was a strong character that didn’t rise to the bait thrown at her. Excellent character. William was a brute and hateful at first. I love that she knocked him on his butt emotionally. He didn’t like it but it served him right. It was fun to watch him struggle.
The other characters were great. Lady Veronica and her family were excellent villains. I hated her instantly. The author did a fabulous job making her vile and vindictive. The description of the life was viewed through Madaline’s eyes and confusion which was a fun twist. It made me question what I would do in that situation. Excellent book. I give it a 4 out of 5.
Madaline owns an antique shop and considers herself an independent woman. Little does she know that it is going to be tested. One day along the shore of the Thames River she finds a box containing a pewter ring with the names Willelm and Madaline. She is shocked and instantly intrigued. She is also drawn to it wanting to put it on her finger. She fights the feeling as long as she can. But alas the draw proves to be too much.
Once she places the ring on her finger she is thrown into the year 1102. She lands in a carriage bound for her wedding. She is now the Lady Madaline of Aimecourt Castle. She is set to marry Lord William Dowell, Baron of Kingston. The marriage was arranged by their parents and supported by King Henry.
As it turns out William has no desire to marry Madaline. The woman is considered heartless and a tyrant. His plan is they will marry in name only. He becomes a brute forcing her at knife point to marry him. Madaline is shocked at the turn of events and is determined to find the ring hoping it will return her home. She enlists her lady maid for help.
Madaline makes the best of her situation. She shows kindness to her people and tries to embrace the life she was dropped into. William and his mistress, the Lady Veronica de Walter, are the only negative aspects. He makes a fool of her and treats her horribly. She is more determined to go home.
However as time goes on, William witnesses Madaline with her own people. Her friendliness and kindness is shocking. She is nothing what he thought. His feelings for her change and grow stronger. He is determined to have her for a proper wife. Madaline and William settle into their lives but are unaware of the plotting that goes on. Jealousy and revenge is driving those that want to destroy them both. Madaline will be forced to make a heartbreaking choice.
I absolutely love time traveling stories. I’ve been hooked for a long time and this book didn’t disappoint. I immediately liked Madaline. She was thrown into an impossible situation. William treated her horribly and I wanted to strangle him. She just continued being herself and made the best of it. She was a strong character that didn’t rise to the bait thrown at her. Excellent character. William was a brute and hateful at first. I love that she knocked him on his butt emotionally. He didn’t like it but it served him right. It was fun to watch him struggle.
The other characters were great. Lady Veronica and her family were excellent villains. I hated her instantly. The author did a fabulous job making her vile and vindictive. The description of the life was viewed through Madaline’s eyes and confusion which was a fun twist. It made me question what I would do in that situation. Excellent book. I give it a 4 out of 5.
May 15, 2015
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Maddie lives in London, is single and has a small antiques shop of her own. She likes to go out and about trying to discover new treasures. One day she uncovers a boxed ring in the sand. She takes it home to research it and while cleaning the box and ring she can't help but try it on.
Next thing she knows, she is in a horse drawn carriage on the way to her wedding and it is the year 1102 and the ring is gone! Her maid thinks she may have hit her head because they went over a bump and she fell of her seat, this is the only excuse she can think of as to why Maddie is asking such strange questions such as the year and where she is.
When Maddie gets to the chapel where the wedding will be, she tells her groom William she can't marry him but he reminds her that the King has ordered this. She ans William marry and he sends her on her way, informing her that they will not be spending the evening together. She is surprised but she finds that William is a cold, stern man.
It seems that her and Williams family have been in conflict for many years and the King decreed there to be a marriage to forge the families together,
Will Maddie ever find the ring to go home? What will happen with William?
I loved this book! I would call it a "time travel fairy tale", lol. The writing was so smooth and I felt like I could "see" everything in the book in my mind. That's when I know I like a book! The characters are well developed also.
Maddie was a sassy one and it gets her in trouble. Women in that era did not have the right to speak like this! William is a very cold, arrogant man in the beginning but it doesn't take long for Maddie to start getting under his skin. He was brought up to hate Maddie's family as the real Maddie was brought up to hate Williams family. Our Maddie doesn't know this though.
She is attracted to William but doesn't want to act on it because she is planning on going home once she finds the ring. Williams' mistress also lives at the keep with them and Maddie finds this unbearable, she will not be with him if he can't respect her enough to get rid of his mistress!
Something really surprised me and caught me off guard toward the end, never expected it.
I HIGHLY recommend this book. I never wanted it to end.......
Maddie lives in London, is single and has a small antiques shop of her own. She likes to go out and about trying to discover new treasures. One day she uncovers a boxed ring in the sand. She takes it home to research it and while cleaning the box and ring she can't help but try it on.
Next thing she knows, she is in a horse drawn carriage on the way to her wedding and it is the year 1102 and the ring is gone! Her maid thinks she may have hit her head because they went over a bump and she fell of her seat, this is the only excuse she can think of as to why Maddie is asking such strange questions such as the year and where she is.
When Maddie gets to the chapel where the wedding will be, she tells her groom William she can't marry him but he reminds her that the King has ordered this. She ans William marry and he sends her on her way, informing her that they will not be spending the evening together. She is surprised but she finds that William is a cold, stern man.
It seems that her and Williams family have been in conflict for many years and the King decreed there to be a marriage to forge the families together,
Will Maddie ever find the ring to go home? What will happen with William?
I loved this book! I would call it a "time travel fairy tale", lol. The writing was so smooth and I felt like I could "see" everything in the book in my mind. That's when I know I like a book! The characters are well developed also.
Maddie was a sassy one and it gets her in trouble. Women in that era did not have the right to speak like this! William is a very cold, arrogant man in the beginning but it doesn't take long for Maddie to start getting under his skin. He was brought up to hate Maddie's family as the real Maddie was brought up to hate Williams family. Our Maddie doesn't know this though.
She is attracted to William but doesn't want to act on it because she is planning on going home once she finds the ring. Williams' mistress also lives at the keep with them and Maddie finds this unbearable, she will not be with him if he can't respect her enough to get rid of his mistress!
Something really surprised me and caught me off guard toward the end, never expected it.
I HIGHLY recommend this book. I never wanted it to end.......
May 17, 2015
I would give this 4.5 stars out of five - it was a really great read and i loved it!
Im a complete history geek so i have a soft spot for any time travel romances and this one hit the mark.
Just the right amount of raciness, story line, historical tidbits and action.
Madeline has found a ring whilst metal detecting in the Thames - suffice to say she puts the ring on and is transported back to the 12th century and is being taken to her arranged wedding!
William is a baron and is marrying Lady Madeline under orders of the king to end a lifelong feud between their families. He despises her and her renowned attitude and contempt for anyone below her station. Little does he know that the previous Lady Madeline has been replaced with modern day Madeline who is a completely different and wonderful person!
Lady Victoria is a nasty piece of work and is the Barons mistress living under the same roof - she's a horrible b**** to put it politely!
I loved reading the sparring between Madeline and William - they both start to care and respect one another slowly. Its a slow burner and the author has done a great job with the characters and story line.
I also found it refreshing that this is a standalone book - at a time when most authors stretch the story over two or more books Tamara Gill was brave enough to let her story to the talking.
Although let it be known that i would happily have bought a trilogy for the story to continue!
Will be reading more of this authors books in the very near future!
Im a complete history geek so i have a soft spot for any time travel romances and this one hit the mark.
Just the right amount of raciness, story line, historical tidbits and action.
Madeline has found a ring whilst metal detecting in the Thames - suffice to say she puts the ring on and is transported back to the 12th century and is being taken to her arranged wedding!
William is a baron and is marrying Lady Madeline under orders of the king to end a lifelong feud between their families. He despises her and her renowned attitude and contempt for anyone below her station. Little does he know that the previous Lady Madeline has been replaced with modern day Madeline who is a completely different and wonderful person!
Lady Victoria is a nasty piece of work and is the Barons mistress living under the same roof - she's a horrible b**** to put it politely!
I loved reading the sparring between Madeline and William - they both start to care and respect one another slowly. Its a slow burner and the author has done a great job with the characters and story line.
I also found it refreshing that this is a standalone book - at a time when most authors stretch the story over two or more books Tamara Gill was brave enough to let her story to the talking.
Although let it be known that i would happily have bought a trilogy for the story to continue!
Will be reading more of this authors books in the very near future!
July 24, 2014
I really liked this book, there were a couple of things that kept this from being a 5 star read for me, but it was close. Maddie finds a very old ring in a pewter box and is instantly attached to the ring, she can't sleep, slips the ring on her finger, and wakes up in 1102. She is on her way to marry William, a match that neither wants or is looking forward to. Medieval time period books are my favorite setting, loved the setting.
William, hot, hunky, alpha medieval, sounds almost perfect except for allowing Lady Veronica his mistress to live under his roof along with his wife. He despises Maddie, but the reader isn't sure why, and of course Maddie doesn't know either. I really like Maddie as the heroine, she was strong and smart when sent back in time, but she was still herself and still scared about making mistakes.
At some point when William realizes this Maddie isn't the same as the Maddie he was expecting, he should have talked to her. I thought his love and interest in her came up too sudden. That was one thing that kept this from five stars, as a reader I didn't see him falling for her, Lady Veronica was a horrible woman and should have been kicked out as soon as possible from Maddie's lands.
Love scenes were good, and I really liked William after he and Maddie got together. Just a couple of things (William's womanizing) kept this from really sending it over the top for me. Tamara Gill writes a really good story and I will read more of her books.
William, hot, hunky, alpha medieval, sounds almost perfect except for allowing Lady Veronica his mistress to live under his roof along with his wife. He despises Maddie, but the reader isn't sure why, and of course Maddie doesn't know either. I really like Maddie as the heroine, she was strong and smart when sent back in time, but she was still herself and still scared about making mistakes.
At some point when William realizes this Maddie isn't the same as the Maddie he was expecting, he should have talked to her. I thought his love and interest in her came up too sudden. That was one thing that kept this from five stars, as a reader I didn't see him falling for her, Lady Veronica was a horrible woman and should have been kicked out as soon as possible from Maddie's lands.
Love scenes were good, and I really liked William after he and Maddie got together. Just a couple of things (William's womanizing) kept this from really sending it over the top for me. Tamara Gill writes a really good story and I will read more of her books.
May 29, 2018
Although I am not a fan of Historical fiction I love reading time travel books. This was my first Tamara Gill book and I really enjoyed it, I loved the setting as well as the characters. What would have been great is if we could have seen William and the real Madelein before Maddie had to travel to 1102, to see what the changes in personality was and how Maddie changed everything for the better. I loved the writing style and would definitely read a Tamara Gill book in the future.
September 13, 2013
2 1/2 stars. Ok. I love time travel romances. This one was a little unrealistic to me--I know, it is a TIME TRAVEL Romance, so realism shouldn't even come into play. However, I felt something was not sitting right with me. The heroine did not act like I would think a 21st century woman thrust into the 12th century would. Not that I expect hysterics, but she seemed to adapt way too quickly to everything going on. Actually, everyone who seemed to find out about her coming from the future seemed to accept it too well. Kind of like "oh well, that makes sense". The time line also moved very quickly. The romance side was decent, but I sometimes did not feel an emotional connection between the H and the h. Ending on the H's side a bit weird for me, and I did not like the "surprise villain". I know I wrote a lot of dislikes, but I didn't hate it. I thought the author told a good story, and her writing style flows well and is easy to read. I would probably try another book by this author, but I probably will not be reading this one again.
August 1, 2021
What would you do if you found a thousand year old ring, unmarked by the passage of time, that you found in a box dug from the sand? Would you deign to wear it?
Maddie does so and his transported to the year 1102. As soon as she is, she is forced to marry a surly baron whose family views her as an enemy. Will his mistress, their family alliances, and time itself keep their growing attraction at bay? Or will their eventual friendship be given the chance to grow into something more?
There were many parts of the book I like and many parts I didn’t. I enjoyed the aspect of the time travel and the overall plot of the story.
However, I found the two main main characters went from hating each other to bedding each other too quickly. I had a little bit of whiplash.
Also, the traitor at the end was just for a jarring effect and didn’t make sense overall. The ending was also rushed.
I will look into Tamara Gill’s other works. This was good but could have been a lot stronger on several fronts.
Maddie does so and his transported to the year 1102. As soon as she is, she is forced to marry a surly baron whose family views her as an enemy. Will his mistress, their family alliances, and time itself keep their growing attraction at bay? Or will their eventual friendship be given the chance to grow into something more?
There were many parts of the book I like and many parts I didn’t. I enjoyed the aspect of the time travel and the overall plot of the story.
However, I found the two main main characters went from hating each other to bedding each other too quickly. I had a little bit of whiplash.
Also, the traitor at the end was just for a jarring effect and didn’t make sense overall. The ending was also rushed.
I will look into Tamara Gill’s other works. This was good but could have been a lot stronger on several fronts.
September 14, 2015
*ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
What happens when a 21st century miss gets transported into the life and body of a medieval aristocrat on her way to an arranged marriage?
If it were me, I would be in hysterical tears for at least a week but Maddie is made of sterner stuff and tries to make the most of her situation, tries to blend in while trying to get back home. However, she never compromises herself or her beliefs.
William is every inch the lord forced to marry against his will. Arrogant, selfish and uncompromising.
Throw in a scheming mistress and you have got one hell of a medieval drama.
While I enjoyed the falling, it did seem a little rushed but it did not detract from the wonderful writing and intriguing situations. Well written characters and story arc. Though it did not end in the traditional way, it was a happy ending nonetheless.
What happens when a 21st century miss gets transported into the life and body of a medieval aristocrat on her way to an arranged marriage?
If it were me, I would be in hysterical tears for at least a week but Maddie is made of sterner stuff and tries to make the most of her situation, tries to blend in while trying to get back home. However, she never compromises herself or her beliefs.
William is every inch the lord forced to marry against his will. Arrogant, selfish and uncompromising.
Throw in a scheming mistress and you have got one hell of a medieval drama.
While I enjoyed the falling, it did seem a little rushed but it did not detract from the wonderful writing and intriguing situations. Well written characters and story arc. Though it did not end in the traditional way, it was a happy ending nonetheless.
July 23, 2016
First of all: I received this paperpack as a firstread-giveaway in exchange for my honest opinion in this review. So here ist comes:
The heroine is thrown back to 1102 by an antique ring. There she has to rule her own court and falls in love with her unwanted husband. Tamara Gill narrates the perception of the "excentrics" of this 21th-century woman by her 12th-century people very vividly. Her writing is well practiced and flowing - a seldom qualitiy in a selfpublished book.
In view of the plot the ending is very sufficient - it's cohernt and original, nothing predictable. From my personal point of view I didn't like it. It's a HEA for the heroine (which i really want) but there are to many collateral damages for my liking. On the other hand is this my reason for reading: To be surprised and to be stimulated to think something new. So: Well done.
The heroine is thrown back to 1102 by an antique ring. There she has to rule her own court and falls in love with her unwanted husband. Tamara Gill narrates the perception of the "excentrics" of this 21th-century woman by her 12th-century people very vividly. Her writing is well practiced and flowing - a seldom qualitiy in a selfpublished book.
In view of the plot the ending is very sufficient - it's cohernt and original, nothing predictable. From my personal point of view I didn't like it. It's a HEA for the heroine (which i really want) but there are to many collateral damages for my liking. On the other hand is this my reason for reading: To be surprised and to be stimulated to think something new. So: Well done.
May 31, 2015
A Medieval England, Historical Romance. Fast paced with engaging and creditable characters. The storyline is a but unique in it takes place in England during King Henry I era, and modern day England.
Danger and revenge lurks around the corner for the H/H due to a past hurt by one if the heroine's ancestors.
The characters were well developed. The storyline easy to follow. Fans if Time-Travel, Historical Romance and the Medieval era of England, are sure to enjoy "Defiant Surrender". An enjoyable and satisfying read. I would, however, have loved to learn more of our H/H's future together. A unique but satisfying read!
*Received for an honest review from the publisher via Net Gallery*
**Cross-posted on My Book Addiction Reviews dot com**
Rating: 4
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
Danger and revenge lurks around the corner for the H/H due to a past hurt by one if the heroine's ancestors.
The characters were well developed. The storyline easy to follow. Fans if Time-Travel, Historical Romance and the Medieval era of England, are sure to enjoy "Defiant Surrender". An enjoyable and satisfying read. I would, however, have loved to learn more of our H/H's future together. A unique but satisfying read!
*Received for an honest review from the publisher via Net Gallery*
**Cross-posted on My Book Addiction Reviews dot com**
Rating: 4
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
July 7, 2015
For a historical time-travel romance book, it was well written.
And, I have read many time travel books in the past but had taken a break for awhile. And I liked the story! OOOHHH and the plot twist i swear was mind blowing! I didnt expect it at all ! It was soo good!
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The storyline was great. The character building was pretty awesome nothing unique but they had personalities.
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The love story between william and Maddie was satisfying. It wasnt too cliche, i mean like instalove! And what i expecially liked about this story is that it had enough funny moments too.
But, in all I just could not put this book down. There is just something about it that just hooks you in the book!
And, I have read many time travel books in the past but had taken a break for awhile. And I liked the story! OOOHHH and the plot twist i swear was mind blowing! I didnt expect it at all ! It was soo good!
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The storyline was great. The character building was pretty awesome nothing unique but they had personalities.
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The love story between william and Maddie was satisfying. It wasnt too cliche, i mean like instalove! And what i expecially liked about this story is that it had enough funny moments too.
But, in all I just could not put this book down. There is just something about it that just hooks you in the book!
November 2, 2013
Okay, I have read many time travel books in the past but had taken a break for awhile. Wow, what a way to get back into the genre. Now there were somethings I loved and somethings that I did not like at all. However, the things that I did like far outweigh the things I didn't like. The storyline was great. The character building was pretty awesome. Did not like some of Maddie's decisions. I definitely would have done some things different. But, in all I just could not put this book down. As I write this review it is going on three am, I will probably not be a happy camper in the morning but I did love this book. There is just something about it that just pulls you in.
August 5, 2014
Lovely and endearing but frustrating
Lovely and endearing but frustrating
This ended as a lovely and endearing story. I did not like Lord William for half of the book. What man would allow his wife to get hit in the face and not kick the person who did it out ASAP. Or sleep with someone else on his wedding night or allow his mistress to taunt his wife. Maddy was almost as bad with her acceptance of his cheating and feeling sorry for his mistress. I hated that Alex wasn't who you thought he was. Despite all that, the story was full of twists and turns but could have been so much better.
Lovely and endearing but frustrating
This ended as a lovely and endearing story. I did not like Lord William for half of the book. What man would allow his wife to get hit in the face and not kick the person who did it out ASAP. Or sleep with someone else on his wedding night or allow his mistress to taunt his wife. Maddy was almost as bad with her acceptance of his cheating and feeling sorry for his mistress. I hated that Alex wasn't who you thought he was. Despite all that, the story was full of twists and turns but could have been so much better.
December 12, 2015
I really liked this book! I am not one to go for the time travel romance books but I do sometimes love the story so much it hard to say no too. This book was one of them. I must say I did like how the heroine did the best she could living in the past time. The hero was sl0w to act like the hero but when he did so he won me over. I overall loved this book and the authors writing. I would recommend this book!
April 13, 2017
I only got about 1/4 of the way into this before I had to give up - I'm giving it 2* rather than 1* as the romance elements weren't bad, and I was interested to see where the 'other woman' plot element might go, but the historical anachronisms just kept piling up. I don't expect my historical/time-travel romances to read like someone's PhD thesis, but I do find I have to give up when a turkey appears in England circa 1100. A pity, as I've enjoyed Tamara Gill's Regency works before.
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