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The King's Cousins #1
The Pawn
The three young children of Adelard de Blays—two sons and a daughter—are separated when their father commits treason against the King of England. Follow each of their stories in The King’s Cousins, a new trilogy by bestselling author Alexa Aston.
1338 A.D. – Exiled to a convent after her father’s execution for treason, Katelyn de Blays has fleeting memories of the man she adored and the outside world. When her brother’s search leads him to finding Katelyn after many years, she is eager to leave with Landon and begin a new life. He brings her to the court of her cousin, Edward III, who betroths Katelyn to a powerful earl of Northumberland, using her as a political pawn to show his continued support of his northern noblemen.
When Sir Nicholas Mandeville returns from patrolling his family’s lands along the Scottish border, he discovers his father has died—and left a widow—whom his uncle wed Nicholas to by proxy during his absence. Angry at becoming the Earl of Northmere and having no choice regarding his wife, Nicholas vows to leave the widow untouched until he knows whether or not she carries his father’s child.
As time passes and Nicholas loses his heart to this brave, young woman, he is astonished to learn Katelyn wishes for their union to be annulled. Can he convince Kate to remain wed to him—or will Nicholas sacrifice his own happiness and let the enigmatic beauty go?
Each book in The King’s Cousins Trilogy is a standalone story that can be enjoyed out of order.
Series Order:
Book #1: The Pawn
Book #2: The Heir
Book #3: The Bastard
For those who savor romance on the high seas, you might enjoy the standalone prequel to The King’s Cousins Trilogy. GOD OF THE SEAS is part of the Pirates of Britannia World and features Godwin de Blays and Melisent Winchester, great-grandparents to Quill, Landon, and Katelyn.
1338 A.D. – Exiled to a convent after her father’s execution for treason, Katelyn de Blays has fleeting memories of the man she adored and the outside world. When her brother’s search leads him to finding Katelyn after many years, she is eager to leave with Landon and begin a new life. He brings her to the court of her cousin, Edward III, who betroths Katelyn to a powerful earl of Northumberland, using her as a political pawn to show his continued support of his northern noblemen.
When Sir Nicholas Mandeville returns from patrolling his family’s lands along the Scottish border, he discovers his father has died—and left a widow—whom his uncle wed Nicholas to by proxy during his absence. Angry at becoming the Earl of Northmere and having no choice regarding his wife, Nicholas vows to leave the widow untouched until he knows whether or not she carries his father’s child.
As time passes and Nicholas loses his heart to this brave, young woman, he is astonished to learn Katelyn wishes for their union to be annulled. Can he convince Kate to remain wed to him—or will Nicholas sacrifice his own happiness and let the enigmatic beauty go?
Each book in The King’s Cousins Trilogy is a standalone story that can be enjoyed out of order.
Series Order:
Book #1: The Pawn
Book #2: The Heir
Book #3: The Bastard
For those who savor romance on the high seas, you might enjoy the standalone prequel to The King’s Cousins Trilogy. GOD OF THE SEAS is part of the Pirates of Britannia World and features Godwin de Blays and Melisent Winchester, great-grandparents to Quill, Landon, and Katelyn.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 12, 2019
632 people are currently reading
230 people want to read
About the author
Alexa Aston
151 books481 followersAward-winning and USA Today bestselling author Alexa Aston lives with her husband in a Dallas suburb, where she eats her fair share of dark chocolate and plots out stories while she walks every morning. She enjoys travel, sports, and time with her family.
Her historical romances bring to life loveable rogues and dashing knights, while her contemporary romances are light and flirty and sometimes contain a bit of suspense.
Stay in touch with Alexa at:
Website: https://alexaaston.com/
Newsletter Sign-Up: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/form...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoralexaa...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AlexaAston
BookBub Follow: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/alexa...
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/alexaaston
BingeBooks Author Page: https://bingebooks.com/profile/AlexaA...
Goodreads Author Page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Her historical romances bring to life loveable rogues and dashing knights, while her contemporary romances are light and flirty and sometimes contain a bit of suspense.
Stay in touch with Alexa at:
Website: https://alexaaston.com/
Newsletter Sign-Up: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/form...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoralexaa...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AlexaAston
BookBub Follow: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/alexa...
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/alexaaston
BingeBooks Author Page: https://bingebooks.com/profile/AlexaA...
Goodreads Author Page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
June 18, 2019
Heroine was awesome
I loved the heroine Katelyn because of her strength. She had been sent to the convent when her Father was falsely accused of treason and was raised there. She had been starved and abused there by the Abbess who was her real mother. Her brother rescues her, she gets married to a disgusting old man who dies on their wedding night so she is then married by proxy to his son. Very convoluted but kept your attention for sure. It dragged on a couple of places but I did like the overall story. She falls in love with the son, Nicholas and of course he falls in love too. There is a lot going on with murder attempts, blindness, sibling rivalry, family betrayals, you name it. This book has it all. Almost too much really. I did like it though. It's safe and free in KU. I will read this author again!
I loved the heroine Katelyn because of her strength. She had been sent to the convent when her Father was falsely accused of treason and was raised there. She had been starved and abused there by the Abbess who was her real mother. Her brother rescues her, she gets married to a disgusting old man who dies on their wedding night so she is then married by proxy to his son. Very convoluted but kept your attention for sure. It dragged on a couple of places but I did like the overall story. She falls in love with the son, Nicholas and of course he falls in love too. There is a lot going on with murder attempts, blindness, sibling rivalry, family betrayals, you name it. This book has it all. Almost too much really. I did like it though. It's safe and free in KU. I will read this author again!
February 6, 2019
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
💋💋
An epic beginning ,to another brilliant series from Alexa Aston.
I fell in love with Alexa’s books whilst reading her Knights of Honor series, I’m so pleased to say this series is set to be just as good .
Nicholas is a strong , honourable knight , first son of the Earl , he inherits both the title and a wife in one night, much to his shock when he returns home .
Kate Is reserved and very much in need of a friend, when her long lost brother arrives to take her away from the convent, where she’s spent most of her life .
She’s taken to see her cousin the King who marries her to an important Earl in a political move to strengthen ties .
When he dies on his wedding night she’s immediately married again ,this time to his son who she’s never met .
Danger , intrigue , treason and politics drive this wonderful story at a fast pace .
The characters are brilliant and well thought through , the storyline is very strong and keeps you hooked.
I loved this book and it gets top marks from me .
Highly Recommend!
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
💋💋
An epic beginning ,to another brilliant series from Alexa Aston.
I fell in love with Alexa’s books whilst reading her Knights of Honor series, I’m so pleased to say this series is set to be just as good .
Nicholas is a strong , honourable knight , first son of the Earl , he inherits both the title and a wife in one night, much to his shock when he returns home .
Kate Is reserved and very much in need of a friend, when her long lost brother arrives to take her away from the convent, where she’s spent most of her life .
She’s taken to see her cousin the King who marries her to an important Earl in a political move to strengthen ties .
When he dies on his wedding night she’s immediately married again ,this time to his son who she’s never met .
Danger , intrigue , treason and politics drive this wonderful story at a fast pace .
The characters are brilliant and well thought through , the storyline is very strong and keeps you hooked.
I loved this book and it gets top marks from me .
Highly Recommend!
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
June 2, 2020
(I review as I read!)
The prologue grabbed my attention and held on tightly, phew. The plot twist, even at the very beginning, was effective. And then as we rolled into chapter one, the surprises didn’t stop coming.
My enjoyment of the surprises faltered when Favian died. Wasn’t necessary and made me wonder what I was getting myself into.
Read about Bethany’s tragic even, was sad, and still wondered what the point of all this tragedy is. Literally still in the second chapter.
Felt a wee bit weird when Nicholas thought about ‘bedding’ Catherine. Yes, his friend was dead but... it just felt weird.
Can’t say I really like this author’s writing style. I remember I tried to read one of her novels in the past and while the beginning (just like this) was good, the rest of it threw me off. I’ll also have to leave this one unfinished.
The prologue grabbed my attention and held on tightly, phew. The plot twist, even at the very beginning, was effective. And then as we rolled into chapter one, the surprises didn’t stop coming.
My enjoyment of the surprises faltered when Favian died. Wasn’t necessary and made me wonder what I was getting myself into.
Read about Bethany’s tragic even, was sad, and still wondered what the point of all this tragedy is. Literally still in the second chapter.
Felt a wee bit weird when Nicholas thought about ‘bedding’ Catherine. Yes, his friend was dead but... it just felt weird.
Can’t say I really like this author’s writing style. I remember I tried to read one of her novels in the past and while the beginning (just like this) was good, the rest of it threw me off. I’ll also have to leave this one unfinished.
February 12, 2019
The Pawn
By Alexa Aston
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Katelyn de Blays was exiled to a convent after her father's execution for treason. She is left with fleeting memories of the man she adored and of the outside world.After many years of searching for her, her brother finds her. By this time she is more than eager to leave with Landon and start a new life. He brings her to the court of her cousin, Edward III, who then decides to betroth her to a powerful earl of Northumberland, but sadly she is just being used as a pawn.
Sir Nicholas Mandeville has just returned from patrolling his family's lands along the Scottish border only to find out that his father has died and left a widow who his Uncle decided to wed to Nicholas by proxy while he was away. Angry at not only becoming the Earl of Northmere, but also having no choice in his bride he vows to leave the widow untouched until he knows if she is carrying his father's child or not.
As time goes on Nicholas gets to know Katelyn and loses his heart to this brave, young woman, but he is shocked to learn that she wishes for their marriage to be annulled.
Can Nicholas get her to love him before time runs out or will he lose her forever?
Alexa Aston never fails to astound me. There is so much rich history in this book. There is also treason, danger, and love as well. Katelyn and Nicholas are meant to be together as their chemistry fairly sizzles. Once I started to read it there was no way I could put it down. Ms. Aston I do believe you have outdone yourself and if the rest of the series is like this I will be waiting for it with baited breath.
By Alexa Aston
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Katelyn de Blays was exiled to a convent after her father's execution for treason. She is left with fleeting memories of the man she adored and of the outside world.After many years of searching for her, her brother finds her. By this time she is more than eager to leave with Landon and start a new life. He brings her to the court of her cousin, Edward III, who then decides to betroth her to a powerful earl of Northumberland, but sadly she is just being used as a pawn.
Sir Nicholas Mandeville has just returned from patrolling his family's lands along the Scottish border only to find out that his father has died and left a widow who his Uncle decided to wed to Nicholas by proxy while he was away. Angry at not only becoming the Earl of Northmere, but also having no choice in his bride he vows to leave the widow untouched until he knows if she is carrying his father's child or not.
As time goes on Nicholas gets to know Katelyn and loses his heart to this brave, young woman, but he is shocked to learn that she wishes for their marriage to be annulled.
Can Nicholas get her to love him before time runs out or will he lose her forever?
Alexa Aston never fails to astound me. There is so much rich history in this book. There is also treason, danger, and love as well. Katelyn and Nicholas are meant to be together as their chemistry fairly sizzles. Once I started to read it there was no way I could put it down. Ms. Aston I do believe you have outdone yourself and if the rest of the series is like this I will be waiting for it with baited breath.
Read
July 26, 2019When I read the prologue I was hooked. A father who committed treason and was executed and a power hungry mother with two children who had to flee and make lives for themselves. There was also a bastard son that had already been taken away. The story picks up with the daughter Katelyn who had been in a convent since she was 5 years old and only wanted to escape. When her brother finds her and spirits her away, she ends up before the King, who is her cousin and married to an older man not of her choosing for political reasons. Could it get any worse for her? As the old earl dies on their wedding knight she is immediately married to his son, Nicholas, who she has never met.
In typical Alexa Aston fashion, I was pulled into this story quickly and could only love the characters as they try to find their way to a happy ending. I highly recommend this book and all of this author's stories!
In typical Alexa Aston fashion, I was pulled into this story quickly and could only love the characters as they try to find their way to a happy ending. I highly recommend this book and all of this author's stories!
May 7, 2019
Set in the mid 1300’s in northern England, “The Pawn” is romantic tale of two individuals, both pawns in a political fight, who begin as strangers in a marriage, but time may change their hearts.
Read full review in the 2019 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2019 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
March 10, 2019
Great Story
I enjoyed the characters in this story. They were well-written and believable. Katelyn was a interesting character and one I enjoyed. This plot which included court intrigue, family betrayal and a skirmish with the Scots kept me reading.
I enjoyed the characters in this story. They were well-written and believable. Katelyn was a interesting character and one I enjoyed. This plot which included court intrigue, family betrayal and a skirmish with the Scots kept me reading.
April 13, 2019
Suspenseful!
The author has successfully created this suspense -
ful story of a young woman who suddenly found herself living in an Abbey, missing the past when she was secured by the love of her father and her brother. The woman then was married to a noble by the order of the King. More unexpected events happened to her soon after. If you want a historical romance loaded with suspense, this one is for you.
The author has successfully created this suspense -
ful story of a young woman who suddenly found herself living in an Abbey, missing the past when she was secured by the love of her father and her brother. The woman then was married to a noble by the order of the King. More unexpected events happened to her soon after. If you want a historical romance loaded with suspense, this one is for you.
April 14, 2019
Excellent reading. Continuous intrigue.
Unfortunately I read the Heir prior to the Pawn. It did nothing to spoil the story of Kate and Nicholas. I am very much looking to Quill's story. And how he meets up with his long lost kin. Kudos to Alexa on this series.
Unfortunately I read the Heir prior to the Pawn. It did nothing to spoil the story of Kate and Nicholas. I am very much looking to Quill's story. And how he meets up with his long lost kin. Kudos to Alexa on this series.
March 3, 2019
The King's Cousins series begins with a story overflowing with emotion and unanticipated events. I was immediately drawn into the life of a woman with a tragic past, and several of her current situations turn out to be equally upsetting. Women had difficult lives in the 1300’s, and the author makes each moment that the heroine has to face very convincing. The hero in the book is particularly likable, as he is courageous yet also compassionate when necessary. Developments come across as conceivable, and I found myself totally immersed in the many intriguing occurrences. Discovering what would happen to the romantic couple kept me fully engaged all the way through. Any story written by Alexa Aston is always extremely believable, and THE PAWN showcases her outstanding talent.
After her father was accused of treason against the English king, the future of Katelyn de Blays changed drastically, as the young girl was taken away from her home and placed in a convent. Though she has wanted to leave the unhappy dwelling, it is not until found by her brother that escape is possible. Being at court where her cousin, King Edward III, reigns is exciting, and she soon learns that he wants her to wed the Earl of Northmere for political reasons. While Katelyn is prepared to do her duty, marrying the older man is not at all pleasing. Then her situation changes when he dies and she ends up married to his son. Although Sir Nicholas Mandeville would appear to be a better husband for Katelyn, they still have plenty of obstacles to overcome.
With accurate details related to daily life and even some historical facts scattered throughout the story, it was easy to feel as though any situation might have actually took place during this time period. I especially enjoyed the specifics about medical care and what food was available to eat. Some of the circumstances that Katelyn has to endure are heartbreaking, and I liked how she was made stronger by these incidents and never gave in to despair. She and Nicholas are very caring individuals, and they treat others based on their natures, not the way in which they are perceived. This made me respect these two even more. There is some danger at times which leads to uncertainty in THE PAWN, and numerous secondary characters also added much fascination to the story.
After her father was accused of treason against the English king, the future of Katelyn de Blays changed drastically, as the young girl was taken away from her home and placed in a convent. Though she has wanted to leave the unhappy dwelling, it is not until found by her brother that escape is possible. Being at court where her cousin, King Edward III, reigns is exciting, and she soon learns that he wants her to wed the Earl of Northmere for political reasons. While Katelyn is prepared to do her duty, marrying the older man is not at all pleasing. Then her situation changes when he dies and she ends up married to his son. Although Sir Nicholas Mandeville would appear to be a better husband for Katelyn, they still have plenty of obstacles to overcome.
With accurate details related to daily life and even some historical facts scattered throughout the story, it was easy to feel as though any situation might have actually took place during this time period. I especially enjoyed the specifics about medical care and what food was available to eat. Some of the circumstances that Katelyn has to endure are heartbreaking, and I liked how she was made stronger by these incidents and never gave in to despair. She and Nicholas are very caring individuals, and they treat others based on their natures, not the way in which they are perceived. This made me respect these two even more. There is some danger at times which leads to uncertainty in THE PAWN, and numerous secondary characters also added much fascination to the story.
February 8, 2019
In the new series by Alexa Aston The Pawn starts with Adelard de Blays committing treason and his two sons and daughter suffer the consequences. Their title and land is stripped and they’re exiled. The first book The Pawn is about his daughter Katelyn de Blays who was sent to a convent with her mother. She remembers Landon, her brother, but otherwise has little memory of the outside world. Her brother has been searching years for her and finally finds her and takes her to their couisin the King, Edward III. Katelyn knows the king will use her as a political pawn and marry her off to his and the country’s advantage. Katelyn becomes betrothed to a powerful earl of Northumberland to show his continued support of his northern noblemen. The Earl dies on her wedding knight. Sir Nicholas Mandeville returns from patrolling his family’s lands along the Scottish border and he discovers his father has died. His uncle thinks it’s best to wed Nicholas to by proxy during his absence to his father’s widow. Nicholas wants nothing to do with a wife, he has other plans. Katelyn has just survived one wedding night and most definitely doesn’t want another husband so soon. Nicholas vows to leave the widow untouched until he knows if she carries his father’s child. The two make a bargain to wait one month to make any decisions. As the two spend time together romance and love blooms between them with Katelyn wanting an annulment and Nicolas decides he want a true marriage. A great story I loved these two strong willed characters. I can’t wait for the next story in the series!!! This my honest opinions after I voluntarily read a copy of this book that was provided to me with no requirements for a review.
February 16, 2019
Terrific story...can’t wait for the next in this series.
Lady Katelyn, or Kate, is the daughter of a lord convicted of treason and executed when she was only five. Her family separated, she lost her parents and siblings and was sent to a convent by the king.
Years later her brother locates her and brings her back into court. Despite her initial thrill at leaving the convent, Kate learns that as a woman she is nothing more than a useful tool fir her cousin the new king to use in his political dealings.
Lord Nicholas is the heir to his family title and a very decent fellow. The rest of the men in his family don’t seem to share that quality. Overnight, unbeknownst to him, he inherits the title and a wife. Quite a surprise.
Before demanding to be relieved of a marriage he did not agree to, Nicholas meets the bride, Lady Kate, and begins to think he might not have gotten such a bad deal after all.
But it’s never as easy as all that, because intrigue and danger lurk as betrayals abound. The two must decide if they can not only stay together but survive the perils they face.
Terrific story! It is the first in a new series and I am definitely looking forward to the future books in this one. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Lady Katelyn, or Kate, is the daughter of a lord convicted of treason and executed when she was only five. Her family separated, she lost her parents and siblings and was sent to a convent by the king.
Years later her brother locates her and brings her back into court. Despite her initial thrill at leaving the convent, Kate learns that as a woman she is nothing more than a useful tool fir her cousin the new king to use in his political dealings.
Lord Nicholas is the heir to his family title and a very decent fellow. The rest of the men in his family don’t seem to share that quality. Overnight, unbeknownst to him, he inherits the title and a wife. Quite a surprise.
Before demanding to be relieved of a marriage he did not agree to, Nicholas meets the bride, Lady Kate, and begins to think he might not have gotten such a bad deal after all.
But it’s never as easy as all that, because intrigue and danger lurk as betrayals abound. The two must decide if they can not only stay together but survive the perils they face.
Terrific story! It is the first in a new series and I am definitely looking forward to the future books in this one. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
February 12, 2019
Katelyn De Blays has spent most of her life in a convent. Hidden there until someone decided they could make use of her and her familial connections. That usefulness will continue even after her longed for release from the convent confines.
Sir Nicholas Mandeville is the heir to a very important border stronghold. His life is about to change far beyond his expectations. He will not know who to trust.
Sometimes family can be the ones that let you down, and strangers support you.
Our heroine is a lot more independent and brave than one would expect from her past life. Our hero had a relatively normal life learning to be a warrior and everything needed to take his rightful place.
These are fascinating characters with lots to share with us. They face danger and discover the best things in life.
This is the start of a series that we are teased with at the start of thus book, but this can be read on its own.
What will happen to our heroine's brothers?
I will be waiting eagerly to find out.
I loved it.
Sir Nicholas Mandeville is the heir to a very important border stronghold. His life is about to change far beyond his expectations. He will not know who to trust.
Sometimes family can be the ones that let you down, and strangers support you.
Our heroine is a lot more independent and brave than one would expect from her past life. Our hero had a relatively normal life learning to be a warrior and everything needed to take his rightful place.
These are fascinating characters with lots to share with us. They face danger and discover the best things in life.
This is the start of a series that we are teased with at the start of thus book, but this can be read on its own.
What will happen to our heroine's brothers?
I will be waiting eagerly to find out.
I loved it.
February 12, 2019
This series is about three young children, separated when their father commits treason and is executed. The children are raised in different locations and treated differently; as they are the King’s cousins. Katelyn de Blays, from age 5, is raised in convent and her mother abandons her, takes her vows and becomes Abbess of the Convent of the Charitable Sisters with an agenda of her own for her daughter. A pawn to be used for the Abbess’s advantage only. However, her plans are upset when Katelyn is found by her brother and taken to the court of their cousin, Edward III. It seems that Edward also has a use for Katelyn; as he arranges a marriage for her with a powerful Earl of Northumberland, using her as a strong political pawn. Alexa Aston has given us strong, compelling personalities and a look into how nobility exploited their own for gain. I could not put this book down wondering what was going to happen to Katelyn next.
February 14, 2019
Katelyn has been raised in a convent, never having friends, or being loved. She was very small when her father was convicted of being a traitor changing her life forever. After years of searching her brother has finally found her, suddenly her life is about to change again. Nicholas Mandeville the Earl Of Northmere has always looked for approval from his father never receiving it, never being good enough, never being loved. I loved Katelyn and Nicholas. I loved reading their story. Katelyn is sweet and feisty and Nicholas is strong and has a big heart. You just want both of them to be together because you know it is true love. This was a wonderful story and Alexa Aston has quickly become one of my favorite authors. Definitely recommend this book!
February 12, 2019
Becoming a widow before a true bride, Katelyn de Blays is wed to her late husband’s oldest son by proxy. Nicholas had planned to wed his best friend’s widow-but upon returning home, he realizes that will never happen. Katelyn and Nicholas decide to make the best of their forced marriage and begin to “court”. Unfortunately, there is evil in the castle. As they forge their mutual love and respect, they find their betrayer. THE PAWN is another great read by one of the authors always on my must purchase list.
February 12, 2019
Great Story
I enjoyed reading this book about Nicholas Mandeville and Katelyn de Blays. Katelyn has been in a convent since she was five she was so ready to be out. That day came when her brother found her and took her to court. She found out that she was to be married to an older man Sir Cedric Mandeville. That night before the marriage could be consummated he died. Now she must marry the heir Nicholas.
This story is a love story between Nicholas and Katelyn. It has its ups and downs but their love is strong!!
I enjoyed reading this book about Nicholas Mandeville and Katelyn de Blays. Katelyn has been in a convent since she was five she was so ready to be out. That day came when her brother found her and took her to court. She found out that she was to be married to an older man Sir Cedric Mandeville. That night before the marriage could be consummated he died. Now she must marry the heir Nicholas.
This story is a love story between Nicholas and Katelyn. It has its ups and downs but their love is strong!!
February 12, 2019
What an amazing start to this brand new series! Katelyn and Nicholas will make you cheer for them. Their rocky start has left a lot to get over. Each of them having to rise above what circumstances have required of them, while evil forces do everything to make sure they fail. You will enjoy how they come together. I truly can't wait for the next Story in this series. Congratulations to this author for a very successful story. I am thrilled my friend gifted me with this book.
March 19, 2019
It was pure delight. I look forward to reading more by the author. This book is the one that will keep you turning the pages! I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, from cover to cover.
February 12, 2019
Katelyn de Blays enjoyed her young life until her Father is accused of Treason, her Mother is a nasty piece of work not to her or her brother but to her half brother who they all think is a bastard. Katelyn and her Mother are sent to a convent where she is to be used as a pawn. A lot of twists in turns in this story...
February 12, 2019
This story is about three siblings caught up in the aftermath of their fathers betrayal to the king. Katelyn , the youngest is taken with her mother to live in a convent. Her story begins when her brother Landon tracks her down and brings her to King Edward court and he makes a marriage betrothed for her. This story is full of intrigue, mystery and true love. I enjoyed it
March 10, 2019
Great
This was a very enjoyable book, very readable, and great escapism. I even had to stay awake far too late and was very grateful that the next day was a Sunday, so I could finish it. That was it, all read in 3 days, and thankfully now, the next in the series ready to start. Hopefully it's just as good.
This was a very enjoyable book, very readable, and great escapism. I even had to stay awake far too late and was very grateful that the next day was a Sunday, so I could finish it. That was it, all read in 3 days, and thankfully now, the next in the series ready to start. Hopefully it's just as good.
March 6, 2019
Loved it!
Loved this book. I literally could not put it down and stayed up all night to read!!! A truly intriguing page turner. You simply must read this series! I've bought them all!
Loved this book. I literally could not put it down and stayed up all night to read!!! A truly intriguing page turner. You simply must read this series! I've bought them all!
March 7, 2019
Wonderful
This is the first book of Alexa's I have read and am so glad I did. This story was wonderful. She is an excellent author. I have the whole series and I am off to read the next one. I encourage all to check out this series.
This is the first book of Alexa's I have read and am so glad I did. This story was wonderful. She is an excellent author. I have the whole series and I am off to read the next one. I encourage all to check out this series.
February 16, 2019
Compelling
I found that this story had many twists and turns
It seemed to be like a puzzle whose pieces came together
I found that this story had many twists and turns
It seemed to be like a puzzle whose pieces came together
February 25, 2019
Good start to the trilogy. Looking forward to next book. Liked all the characters. Anxious to learn about Katelyns and Landons half brother.
May 11, 2019
I found this book, quite unexpectedly on Amazon and borrowed it with my Kindle Unlimited description. It sort of a clever twist on an arranged marriage story, in which the husband dies very quickly and Katelyn ends up married to her husband's son the next day.
Overall, I liked the story: although I think the first half was a lot better than the second. In the first half we're introduced to several interesting and well developed characters. Katelyn, a young woman who has grown up in a nunnery, and is suddenly thrust into court life and then marriage.
Nicholas, the son of an earl and seasoned warrior, as well as his best friend and family as well as his disabled sister, Bethany. The villain is kind of cartoonish, although there is a bad character who manages to redeem himself.
Somewhere around one third to halfway through, however, the characters suddenly change. Nicholas, who had been honourable and self-controlled (willing to wait years to marry his neighbour, and not wanting to rush her), can't stop lusting after Katelyn, and can barely keep his hands off her.
Katelyn also changes from being shy and uncertain of herself to sassy and mouthy. She goes from being a fish out of water, to insisting on having her own way. I dislike sudden U-turns in the behaviour and personality of characters with little or no basis. Even more sudden and inexplicable changes in their attitude to other characters.
I mean I finished the book, and there was enough tension and story to make you want to keep reading to the end. Although the way a couple of things turned out was disappointing and too easy.
One warning to my readers though. This is NOT religious or Inspirational Fiction: the characters sometimes pray (usually to the Virgin Mary), but there are also several sex scenes.
I think that was my other niggle. Most of these scenes are fairly mild, but seem to become increasingly graphic and semi-detailed. I would say the last one was unnecessarily dirty: the audience can tell what's going on without descriptions like that. Ahem.
Now I don't mind some such content, but I just think the way some of it was done in this book was downright distasteful instead of Romantic, and added nothing to the story. As such, I would say this book is not suitable for under 16s, if not under 18s.
I also had a few historical issues. Most the details were quite authentic, but there was some inaccuracies. King Edward III was not as is claimed, an only child. He had two sisters, and possibly a younger brother. I also found a few of the Americanisms jarring. I'm pretty sure 14th century Scottish and English people did not talk about wearing 'pants'.
On one final note: what on earth is going on with the cover? The book clearly says Katelyn has black hair. She's not a redhead. I understand this is a stock image, but isn't it possible to change the hair colour to make it more accurate to the story?
I understand there are two more book in this series, about Katelyn's two brothers. Not sure if I will read them or not as the sexual content became a real issue towards the end. I don't want to be skipping over pages and pages at a time because of that.
Overall, I liked the story: although I think the first half was a lot better than the second. In the first half we're introduced to several interesting and well developed characters. Katelyn, a young woman who has grown up in a nunnery, and is suddenly thrust into court life and then marriage.
Nicholas, the son of an earl and seasoned warrior, as well as his best friend and family as well as his disabled sister, Bethany. The villain is kind of cartoonish, although there is a bad character who manages to redeem himself.
Somewhere around one third to halfway through, however, the characters suddenly change. Nicholas, who had been honourable and self-controlled (willing to wait years to marry his neighbour, and not wanting to rush her), can't stop lusting after Katelyn, and can barely keep his hands off her.
Katelyn also changes from being shy and uncertain of herself to sassy and mouthy. She goes from being a fish out of water, to insisting on having her own way. I dislike sudden U-turns in the behaviour and personality of characters with little or no basis. Even more sudden and inexplicable changes in their attitude to other characters.
I mean I finished the book, and there was enough tension and story to make you want to keep reading to the end. Although the way a couple of things turned out was disappointing and too easy.
One warning to my readers though. This is NOT religious or Inspirational Fiction: the characters sometimes pray (usually to the Virgin Mary), but there are also several sex scenes.
I think that was my other niggle. Most of these scenes are fairly mild, but seem to become increasingly graphic and semi-detailed. I would say the last one was unnecessarily dirty: the audience can tell what's going on without descriptions like that. Ahem.
Now I don't mind some such content, but I just think the way some of it was done in this book was downright distasteful instead of Romantic, and added nothing to the story. As such, I would say this book is not suitable for under 16s, if not under 18s.
I also had a few historical issues. Most the details were quite authentic, but there was some inaccuracies. King Edward III was not as is claimed, an only child. He had two sisters, and possibly a younger brother. I also found a few of the Americanisms jarring. I'm pretty sure 14th century Scottish and English people did not talk about wearing 'pants'.
On one final note: what on earth is going on with the cover? The book clearly says Katelyn has black hair. She's not a redhead. I understand this is a stock image, but isn't it possible to change the hair colour to make it more accurate to the story?
I understand there are two more book in this series, about Katelyn's two brothers. Not sure if I will read them or not as the sexual content became a real issue towards the end. I don't want to be skipping over pages and pages at a time because of that.
December 8, 2019
The Unfortunate Family of Lord Are part de Blays
A wonderful and emotional story of a noble family's plight when their father is accused of treason and executed. A power hungry mother, who cared only for herself, 3 children - the oldest boy, 8 years old deemed a bastard by all, and the acknowledged legitimate son and daughter 6 and 5 years respectively. The accused father who says his farewell to his children and asks for their forgiveness and giving each of his son's a family heirloom, asking them to take care of each other and to know that some of the things they will hear are true, but not all of it is true. A confession made to his wife just before his arrest causing her to strike him. Mother and daughter are sent to a convent and immediately separated. Years later her daughter finds out that the cruel and harsh ruler of the convent is her own mother with an agenda of making herself more powerful. Prayers are finally answered when her brother finds her in the convent and removes her from the hell she was in and takes her to court. Unfortunately, the new king gives her in marriage to a cruel 60 year old man to strengthen the alliance. On their wedding night frustrations at not being able to perform, the husband suffers a heart attack. For his sister's benefit and we'll being, her brother makes it look that the marriage was consummated. The power hungry brother of the deceased immediately marries her off to the new earl by proxy. Thus begins the new life of Katelyn and her new not so found freedom. Story is well developed and the characters very believable. Very engaging story. Lots of twists and turns, loaded with villains, mystery, danger, abduction, lack of communication, loyalties, and romance. Book is written with a lot of historical information woven into it making the reader feel they are actually living in that era. A truly wonderful story. Very hard to put down.
A wonderful and emotional story of a noble family's plight when their father is accused of treason and executed. A power hungry mother, who cared only for herself, 3 children - the oldest boy, 8 years old deemed a bastard by all, and the acknowledged legitimate son and daughter 6 and 5 years respectively. The accused father who says his farewell to his children and asks for their forgiveness and giving each of his son's a family heirloom, asking them to take care of each other and to know that some of the things they will hear are true, but not all of it is true. A confession made to his wife just before his arrest causing her to strike him. Mother and daughter are sent to a convent and immediately separated. Years later her daughter finds out that the cruel and harsh ruler of the convent is her own mother with an agenda of making herself more powerful. Prayers are finally answered when her brother finds her in the convent and removes her from the hell she was in and takes her to court. Unfortunately, the new king gives her in marriage to a cruel 60 year old man to strengthen the alliance. On their wedding night frustrations at not being able to perform, the husband suffers a heart attack. For his sister's benefit and we'll being, her brother makes it look that the marriage was consummated. The power hungry brother of the deceased immediately marries her off to the new earl by proxy. Thus begins the new life of Katelyn and her new not so found freedom. Story is well developed and the characters very believable. Very engaging story. Lots of twists and turns, loaded with villains, mystery, danger, abduction, lack of communication, loyalties, and romance. Book is written with a lot of historical information woven into it making the reader feel they are actually living in that era. A truly wonderful story. Very hard to put down.
March 5, 2020
Amazing story
Well written. I was glued to the pages to the end. She has lived in a nunnery since she was five and has no idea what happen to the rest of her family other then her mother. Her brother finds her and takes her to the king who is her cousin and he announce she is to be marry to the earl. The earl dies on her wedding night and the next day she finds herself married to his son the new earl by poxy.
He is away when his father marries and when he returns he finds out that hes been married to her by poxy and hes not happy. He planned to marry his dead friend's widow.
Well written. I was glued to the pages to the end. She has lived in a nunnery since she was five and has no idea what happen to the rest of her family other then her mother. Her brother finds her and takes her to the king who is her cousin and he announce she is to be marry to the earl. The earl dies on her wedding night and the next day she finds herself married to his son the new earl by poxy.
He is away when his father marries and when he returns he finds out that hes been married to her by poxy and hes not happy. He planned to marry his dead friend's widow.
May 5, 2019
What color is her hair
The book is okay
But if just couldn’t get over the red head on the front of the book. Kate was supposed to have black hair green eyes. And the other siblings were supposed to look alike. Whoever did illustrated or drew whatever pic NEEDS TO READ THE BOOK!!!! Really just couldn’t get past that. Story is a little dull but okay
The book is okay
But if just couldn’t get over the red head on the front of the book. Kate was supposed to have black hair green eyes. And the other siblings were supposed to look alike. Whoever did illustrated or drew whatever pic NEEDS TO READ THE BOOK!!!! Really just couldn’t get past that. Story is a little dull but okay
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