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Lairds of the Crest #1
The Prophecy
She fell through time and into the arms of the 15th-century Highland laird she was fated to save. Will their love be a timeless treasure or an eternal curse?
Gwendolyn Reynolds's career path is secure...so why does she feel so restless? Haunted by recurring dreams, she breaks away on a soul-searching trip to coastal Scotland. But when a storm forces her off the road, she plunges into icy waters, only to resurface in the arms of a handsome highlander.
Scotland, 1426. Fierce and feared, Laird Greylen MacGreggor has yet to meet his match. Eagerly awaiting the woman foretold in prophecy, he never expects her to be a 21st-century stunner with a feisty temper. But when he rescues her from the icy waters behind Seagrave Castle, his first touch confirms that Gwen is his destiny.
As sparks fly between the unlikely pair, they discover their passionate fate could be both powerful and deadly. Can Gwen and Greylen overcome centuries of differences to find true love?
If you like your romance filled with steadfast lovers, steamy nights, and a dash of riotous humor, get spell-bound by The Prophecy —the first enchanting love story in the Lairds of the Crest series.
Gwendolyn Reynolds's career path is secure...so why does she feel so restless? Haunted by recurring dreams, she breaks away on a soul-searching trip to coastal Scotland. But when a storm forces her off the road, she plunges into icy waters, only to resurface in the arms of a handsome highlander.
Scotland, 1426. Fierce and feared, Laird Greylen MacGreggor has yet to meet his match. Eagerly awaiting the woman foretold in prophecy, he never expects her to be a 21st-century stunner with a feisty temper. But when he rescues her from the icy waters behind Seagrave Castle, his first touch confirms that Gwen is his destiny.
As sparks fly between the unlikely pair, they discover their passionate fate could be both powerful and deadly. Can Gwen and Greylen overcome centuries of differences to find true love?
If you like your romance filled with steadfast lovers, steamy nights, and a dash of riotous humor, get spell-bound by The Prophecy —the first enchanting love story in the Lairds of the Crest series.
466 pages, ebook
First published July 16, 2019
1758 people are currently reading
1077 people want to read
About the author
Kim Sakwa
31 books76 followersKim Sakwa is the author of multiple bestselling romances, including, Prophecy, The Price, The Pledge, Never Say Goodbye, Never Too Late, and Never Say Never. When not writing, you can find her listening to the soundtracks she creates for her novels. She's a hopeless romantic, hooked on happily ever after. Join Kim on Facebook and Instagram: @authorkimsakwa.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
November 11, 2019
I have to tell you, this historical/time travel novel by Kim Sakwa, caused me quite a bit of consternation. So much so, that I went back and read "The Prophecy," TWICE, just to make sure that I didn't miss the instance, inference, or suggestion, that this wasn't a deliberate parody or spoof, of another well-known, Scottish, time-travel novel. I believe this to be a sincere offering, from the author.
From the very first page, factual and credibility issues, leapt out at me, and continued, throughout the story. I also have to tell you, that I was also tantalized, from page one. An intriguing premise, wonderful descriptions, and details. I didn't have to wait too long for the magic - when Gwendolyn traveled back through time. Now, you see, I GET that time travel, in and of itself, is a leap of faith - it's fantasy. Does that mean we are to suspend disbelief, and accept the world that the author builds, even if it's SUPPOSE to be our OWN? My greatest issue is, that this could have been a really good book. Kim Sakwa can write, and she tells an intriguing story, about enchanting characters. The problem is, it appears that she didn't really do any research into sixteenth century Scotland, or the people who may have resided there.
****Spoilers ahead**** Now, the heroine, Gwendolyn, is born to fill an ancient prophecy, of a woman who is rescued from the sea, to later save our hero, Greylen. She is not aware of the prophecy, HE is. First, we see modern-day Gwen, who zips through college, then medical school, and then goes on to specialize, and is a cardiovascular surgical resident - all by the age of twenty seven. We later learn in the book, that she finished school, "a little early," - like Doogie Houser early, apparently. Now, even before she makes the leap in time, we see her character "QUIT." She wants to quit her residency, and break her contract. She makes it this far, not to mention, the EXPENSE, and then she decides, nope, this isn't the life for her. Hookay! For all the training and skill she acquires, she does end up preforming general surgery, on our hero, but technically, the only skill required of her to "save her love's heart," is basically, CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
There is no attempt at Scottish Gaelic, nor even a Scottish burr. A few 'twas, 'tis, or even 'twasn't, isn't all that convincing. The fact is, there would have been a HUGE language barrier, between Gwen and residents of Seagrave. Just a note, there would be no bathrooms, or even "bathing chambers" in 1536, and certainly, NO coffee. Maybe, later in the century, but only in Yemen! Further, an ipod submerged in sea water, most likely would never work again, but more importantly, the use of one in that year, would most likely result in the death of the user, being declared a heretic, a demon, or a witch. Stoning, hanging, burning at the stake - take your pick, who knows? Even those fulfilling a prophecy, and plucked from the sea, as a known ethereal creature, would not have been exempt - these were primitive people! Spiked heeled sandals, for Gwen? Not until centuries later, and AFTER men wore the heels, FIRST! Gwen running in public, in a halter and shorts - that would have never happened, either. One of the more casual mentions, that nearly made me choke, was AFTER we see Gwen and Greylen, writing to one another on parchment, we hear this phrase from Greylen, in regards to needing new soldiers - "We'll run an ad in the paper!"
There were so many more, I just stopped writing them down. It could have been a good book, but as it is written, it doesn't read as fantasy, it comes across as absurd. Simply put, there were so many factual and credibility issues, that it became distracting, and my enjoyment of the book, continued to plummet, the more I read. I enjoyed some aspects of this book, but as I take this task of reviewing seriously, I can't in good faith, recommend this book to other readers, as it is written. I do hope the author continues to write, and takes on an editor. Research for any book, in any genre, is vital. I received this book as an ARC from Hidden Gems Books, and I volunteered this review.
From the very first page, factual and credibility issues, leapt out at me, and continued, throughout the story. I also have to tell you, that I was also tantalized, from page one. An intriguing premise, wonderful descriptions, and details. I didn't have to wait too long for the magic - when Gwendolyn traveled back through time. Now, you see, I GET that time travel, in and of itself, is a leap of faith - it's fantasy. Does that mean we are to suspend disbelief, and accept the world that the author builds, even if it's SUPPOSE to be our OWN? My greatest issue is, that this could have been a really good book. Kim Sakwa can write, and she tells an intriguing story, about enchanting characters. The problem is, it appears that she didn't really do any research into sixteenth century Scotland, or the people who may have resided there.
****Spoilers ahead**** Now, the heroine, Gwendolyn, is born to fill an ancient prophecy, of a woman who is rescued from the sea, to later save our hero, Greylen. She is not aware of the prophecy, HE is. First, we see modern-day Gwen, who zips through college, then medical school, and then goes on to specialize, and is a cardiovascular surgical resident - all by the age of twenty seven. We later learn in the book, that she finished school, "a little early," - like Doogie Houser early, apparently. Now, even before she makes the leap in time, we see her character "QUIT." She wants to quit her residency, and break her contract. She makes it this far, not to mention, the EXPENSE, and then she decides, nope, this isn't the life for her. Hookay! For all the training and skill she acquires, she does end up preforming general surgery, on our hero, but technically, the only skill required of her to "save her love's heart," is basically, CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
There is no attempt at Scottish Gaelic, nor even a Scottish burr. A few 'twas, 'tis, or even 'twasn't, isn't all that convincing. The fact is, there would have been a HUGE language barrier, between Gwen and residents of Seagrave. Just a note, there would be no bathrooms, or even "bathing chambers" in 1536, and certainly, NO coffee. Maybe, later in the century, but only in Yemen! Further, an ipod submerged in sea water, most likely would never work again, but more importantly, the use of one in that year, would most likely result in the death of the user, being declared a heretic, a demon, or a witch. Stoning, hanging, burning at the stake - take your pick, who knows? Even those fulfilling a prophecy, and plucked from the sea, as a known ethereal creature, would not have been exempt - these were primitive people! Spiked heeled sandals, for Gwen? Not until centuries later, and AFTER men wore the heels, FIRST! Gwen running in public, in a halter and shorts - that would have never happened, either. One of the more casual mentions, that nearly made me choke, was AFTER we see Gwen and Greylen, writing to one another on parchment, we hear this phrase from Greylen, in regards to needing new soldiers - "We'll run an ad in the paper!"
There were so many more, I just stopped writing them down. It could have been a good book, but as it is written, it doesn't read as fantasy, it comes across as absurd. Simply put, there were so many factual and credibility issues, that it became distracting, and my enjoyment of the book, continued to plummet, the more I read. I enjoyed some aspects of this book, but as I take this task of reviewing seriously, I can't in good faith, recommend this book to other readers, as it is written. I do hope the author continues to write, and takes on an editor. Research for any book, in any genre, is vital. I received this book as an ARC from Hidden Gems Books, and I volunteered this review.
February 29, 2020
Okay, I absolutely loved this book. I found myself laughing at the playful and crazy remarks throughout the entire book. The story not only contains humor, but romance, action, and unconditional love.
Kim Sakwa creates amazing characters that compliment one another perfectly. I was so engrossed in every part of the story that I could not put the book down. It completely pulled me in and I felt like I was right there with the characters building friendships and true love that would last a lifetime.
I thought the book was the perfect length and was written so that you get complete closer. This is a novel that I will add to my collection of books that I love to read more than once.
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy.
Kim Sakwa creates amazing characters that compliment one another perfectly. I was so engrossed in every part of the story that I could not put the book down. It completely pulled me in and I felt like I was right there with the characters building friendships and true love that would last a lifetime.
I thought the book was the perfect length and was written so that you get complete closer. This is a novel that I will add to my collection of books that I love to read more than once.
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy.
March 20, 2022
My first read by this author. Good book easy read because no history lesson here. Simple. All about love. Time travel books always not logical, I get that, I just want to escape from reality without having to think so much as long I've got strong H/h. Their love and devotion towards each other make me swoon.
July 17, 2019
Kim Sakwa introduces us to the story of Gwendolyn Reynolds in the year two thousand and sixteen decides to leave her career behind and take a trip to Scotland. On her twenty-eighth birthday, she decides to celebrate in a pub miles from her inn in Scotland, a freak storm throws not only her truck in the water but in the arms of Greylen in the year Fifteen thirty-six. Greylen MacGreggor has been waiting his whole life for the Prophecy to become complete and him to meet the woman in his dreams. The woman from another time. Will the fire sparked from their first touch, lead to steamy nights and happy ever infinity.
“Once they touch tis forever, their bond is the key once together, they shall remain.. for infinity.”
Kim Sakwa brings us a time travel romance that takes us to the Scottish Highlands from today to another time. This book will not leave you wanting with her easy to read writing sand immersive storyline you will pick it up and be through her three hundred sixty page book in no time. Yes, it is a time travel story-line and there is no real clear explanation on how she travels other than prophecy and a storm transport her to another time but you find that it is an afterthought in the overall story, and it does not seem to bother you until the end. I recommend this story not just for lovers of Scotland and Time story Romances but the funny parts of the conversations between a woman from the twenty-first century and women and men from the sixteenth century.
“Once they touch tis forever, their bond is the key once together, they shall remain.. for infinity.”
Kim Sakwa brings us a time travel romance that takes us to the Scottish Highlands from today to another time. This book will not leave you wanting with her easy to read writing sand immersive storyline you will pick it up and be through her three hundred sixty page book in no time. Yes, it is a time travel story-line and there is no real clear explanation on how she travels other than prophecy and a storm transport her to another time but you find that it is an afterthought in the overall story, and it does not seem to bother you until the end. I recommend this story not just for lovers of Scotland and Time story Romances but the funny parts of the conversations between a woman from the twenty-first century and women and men from the sixteenth century.
March 29, 2021
2.75 stars
This book was overly long and slightly boring. I love time travel books but this was just very underwhelming for me.
It literally was as follows... Tragedy - oh, I love you- need to go away- oh, I love you - tragedy again - lovey dovey -tragedy - lovey dovey- and... yes, another tragedy. It was too much and yet not enough. It could have easily be done in 200 or so pages.
This book was overly long and slightly boring. I love time travel books but this was just very underwhelming for me.
It literally was as follows... Tragedy - oh, I love you- need to go away- oh, I love you - tragedy again - lovey dovey -tragedy - lovey dovey- and... yes, another tragedy. It was too much and yet not enough. It could have easily be done in 200 or so pages.
November 11, 2019
I tried..
I really did try to like this book. At times, the writing would show promise of depth and prose but then it would drop off just as quickly to nonsensical page filling words. The heroine.. my god. Sometimes I wondered if I was reading about a woman with delay issues. Honestly, she spoke and acted off. Maybe this was the authors way of trying to portray innocence? She was entirely too gullible and naive and she accepts time travel way too easily. I was expecting more from a supposed brainiac cardiologist.. Also I’m just not one for love at first sight. I like a slow build romance. At least make it believable. The heroine is literally missing for 60% of the book and when he returns they are professing their undying love to each other? I just couldn’t. Lots of eye rolls. I wasn’t going to write a review. I hate writing negative reviews in general but I think it would saved me from a Sunday off reading a book I didn’t enjoy. No depth in any one character and storyline was boring.
I really did try to like this book. At times, the writing would show promise of depth and prose but then it would drop off just as quickly to nonsensical page filling words. The heroine.. my god. Sometimes I wondered if I was reading about a woman with delay issues. Honestly, she spoke and acted off. Maybe this was the authors way of trying to portray innocence? She was entirely too gullible and naive and she accepts time travel way too easily. I was expecting more from a supposed brainiac cardiologist.. Also I’m just not one for love at first sight. I like a slow build romance. At least make it believable. The heroine is literally missing for 60% of the book and when he returns they are professing their undying love to each other? I just couldn’t. Lots of eye rolls. I wasn’t going to write a review. I hate writing negative reviews in general but I think it would saved me from a Sunday off reading a book I didn’t enjoy. No depth in any one character and storyline was boring.
July 17, 2019
What a great read from start to finish. The book had twist and turns that always kept me interested and turning those pages to find out what happens next. Gwen and Greylen are truly the power couple from the 16th century. Best book I have read all year. Look forward to reading more books by Kim Sakwa.
if course I loved the main characters Gwen and Greylen but Gavin by far was my favorite.
if course I loved the main characters Gwen and Greylen but Gavin by far was my favorite.
July 30, 2019
Wow, what a great book...From beginning to end, this book delivers!!!
Kim Sakwa's writing flows, as she paints a vivid picture and tells a compelling story that has you invested in the characters and story from the very beginning. The dialogue in this book will have you laughing out loud as you turn each page looking for more and more. What a fun time travel romance! Well done Ms. Sakwa, I look forward to reading many more books by you in the future.
Kim Sakwa's writing flows, as she paints a vivid picture and tells a compelling story that has you invested in the characters and story from the very beginning. The dialogue in this book will have you laughing out loud as you turn each page looking for more and more. What a fun time travel romance! Well done Ms. Sakwa, I look forward to reading many more books by you in the future.
July 27, 2019
I loved this book from start to finish. Kim takes us on a magical journey back in time. I was attached to and fell in love with the characters immediately and couldn't wait to see where the story took me. What a powerful read and another genre of book I truly enjoyed. I felt like I was back in time. A beautiful romance in what I pictured to be a beautiful setting.
April 5, 2020
Absolutely Fabulous
This perfectly written time travel romance will absolutely take your breath away. Gwendolyn, Greylen, and Gavin are interesting characters bringing their fearlessness to the story. As deep emotions follow these three in the telling of the tale so does fun and laughter. A book that I could not put down.
This perfectly written time travel romance will absolutely take your breath away. Gwendolyn, Greylen, and Gavin are interesting characters bringing their fearlessness to the story. As deep emotions follow these three in the telling of the tale so does fun and laughter. A book that I could not put down.
August 3, 2019
Amazing!
This was the best romance travel book I have read on a long time. There was a prophecy that Greylen and Gwen would meet through time. Greylen knew the moment he rescued Gwen from the waters that she was the one. He was a Lord and warrior and she was a surgeon.
This was the best romance travel book I have read on a long time. There was a prophecy that Greylen and Gwen would meet through time. Greylen knew the moment he rescued Gwen from the waters that she was the one. He was a Lord and warrior and she was a surgeon.
November 9, 2019
Wow, what a great time travel romance. Gwendolyn and Greylen were destined to be together thru a prophecy. Gwen bought her modern woman ways with her which at times added a touch of humor to this ageless love story. Their adventures were sometimes sad, sometimes funny but always filled with love. There were wonderful supporting characters that were always there rooting for the couple.
So many books leave me with unanswered questions from lack of background. This historical romance novel by Kim Sakwa did not have that problem for me. Her descriptive details really bought the story to life. I don't know how accurate to the 16st century the details were but who cares that why they call it fiction.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy provided by Hidden Gems.
So many books leave me with unanswered questions from lack of background. This historical romance novel by Kim Sakwa did not have that problem for me. Her descriptive details really bought the story to life. I don't know how accurate to the 16st century the details were but who cares that why they call it fiction.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy provided by Hidden Gems.
November 8, 2019
A travel romance taking place in the Scottish Highlands, in another time. This is entertaining with lovable characters and excellent storytelling, you just want to keep on reading. You can almost feel the connection between Greylen and Gwendolyn, their love conquers all, even time. This is so easy to read, and impossible to put down, a true love story.
I received this ARC as a gift and I am voluntarily submitting this review.
I received this ARC as a gift and I am voluntarily submitting this review.
November 10, 2019
What a story, once I started this book I was not putting it down, a well written time travel story with a very good storyline. This is a Author I have not read before, but I will be looking for more by her. Gwen and Greylen's story is one I would recommend. I received a Arc of this book through Hidden Gems and I am voluntarily reviewing.
October 10, 2019
Moving and throughly enjoyable!
The story moved fast and I couldn’t put it down until the end. So disappointed there wasn’t another book to read. I loved the storyline of love, redemption, and kindness.
The story moved fast and I couldn’t put it down until the end. So disappointed there wasn’t another book to read. I loved the storyline of love, redemption, and kindness.
October 11, 2019
Great fun to read.
Really enjoyed this book. I had a hard time putting it down. I loved the fight and spirit that Gwen had and her love for her husband and new family. I laughed and cried throughout the book.
Really enjoyed this book. I had a hard time putting it down. I loved the fight and spirit that Gwen had and her love for her husband and new family. I laughed and cried throughout the book.
October 14, 2019
Nice Time Travel story.
Loved this book. I especially liked the sassy mouth and sailor swearing done by Gwen. The only problem I have is Ms. Sakwa did not go deeper into Gwen's recovery from PTSD.
Loved this book. I especially liked the sassy mouth and sailor swearing done by Gwen. The only problem I have is Ms. Sakwa did not go deeper into Gwen's recovery from PTSD.
June 6, 2019
The author crafts a fun slow reveal to the heroine that she's gone back to 16th-century Scotland from our time. The book is full of smart banter between the characters and has a great steamy scene.
July 21, 2019
The story is very well written. Absolutely delightful. Although I am not into romances, this book made excellent reading. I am anxious to read her upcoming book.
October 11, 2019
A Great Read.
If like me you enjoy time travel romance books, you'll certainly enjoy this one. I can honestly say it the best book I've read in a long while.
If like me you enjoy time travel romance books, you'll certainly enjoy this one. I can honestly say it the best book I've read in a long while.
October 16, 2019
Great Story !
I really enjoyed reading this book, it is well written and has a great story to tell. Very enjoyable read !
I really enjoyed reading this book, it is well written and has a great story to tell. Very enjoyable read !
July 24, 2021
I completely Loved this. It was a breath of fresh air for me.
Very much like the outlander books just quicker to read with a much simpler text and storyline.
Very much like the outlander books just quicker to read with a much simpler text and storyline.
November 2, 2019
Historical Detail?
I can't even enjoy this book because the historical detail is so poor. I'm sorry, I think it has a good story line but if you are going to advertise something as historical fiction, make sure to do a little better job researching the history. A sixteenth century Scottish castle would not have had bathrooms or couches. While the piano, known at the time as a harpsichord, was being introduced in Italy, it had not made its way to Scotland. The hall would have been relatively severe except for tapestries. I really wanted to like this book and I couldn't get past these problems.
I can't even enjoy this book because the historical detail is so poor. I'm sorry, I think it has a good story line but if you are going to advertise something as historical fiction, make sure to do a little better job researching the history. A sixteenth century Scottish castle would not have had bathrooms or couches. While the piano, known at the time as a harpsichord, was being introduced in Italy, it had not made its way to Scotland. The hall would have been relatively severe except for tapestries. I really wanted to like this book and I couldn't get past these problems.
November 8, 2019
Kim Sakwa is a new author and I think she has a ton of potential. This story had a lot I liked. The characters were interesting, including the secondary characters, there was some steaminess, and the story had some twists and turns along the way. I didn't like introducing son much modern tech (iPod that never lost its charge) to sports, etc. t seemed odd. Maybe one or two things, but not so much. I liked the whole idea of The Prophecy, predicting Greylen and Gwen's relationship story. Again, this story was well paced, interesting, and overall a good read. I would like to read more from Kim Sakwa.
I received a copy form Hidden Gems and this is my honest review
I received a copy form Hidden Gems and this is my honest review
February 1, 2021
Ugh. I so wanted to like this book. It's a good premise, but Sakwa didn't do her homework. She knows nothing about Scotland, the Scots or even modern English doctors. She doesn't understand life in that era in this setting and it's really not believable. The main characters are barely likable and completely undeveloped. The secondary characters are slightly more likable, but very undeveloped. Even the romantic scenes are formulaic, boring, undeveloped, and repetitive. If you are looking for good historic fiction, or good time travel, don't waste any time here.
March 25, 2021
One out of the box
One of the standout books I have read in ages. Love the characters and the reader actually gets to feel what they feel, not just read words. Meshes time travel seamlessly. Not just the love story of husband and wife but of deep friendships as well. Exquisitely written and one, im positive, I will read over and over.
One of the standout books I have read in ages. Love the characters and the reader actually gets to feel what they feel, not just read words. Meshes time travel seamlessly. Not just the love story of husband and wife but of deep friendships as well. Exquisitely written and one, im positive, I will read over and over.
April 24, 2025
Better time travel romance than most that I have read. Only real negative is a bit of medieval brutality that goes over the top. If your stomach is weak, beware!
April 9, 2021
A Little Before Its Time
The Prophecy is an action-packed, time-travel romance with wonderful characters and a thrilling main plot.
The Opening
The first chapter is fabulous. The first scene quickly establishes Gwen as a sympathetic and proactive character and is quite the in medias res opening. The second scene introduces her love interest, and there’s no doubt that he is due to the eponymous prophecy.
The Characters
Gwen is an awesome proactive and sympathetic character. She is relatable and interesting. She is a three-dimensional character, but more foreshadowing about her interest in exercise and the martial arts would have been nice before they become relevant to the plot.
Greylen is a little misogynistic but less than is frequently found in similar time travel romances. He is an interesting character with fantastic friendships and family relationships.
Gavin is the most complex and interesting character. He’s the one with a mysterious past and a dark secret. His character development arc is more interesting than any other character.
The Plot
The opening became a bit confusing for me because I didn’t at first realize Gwen’s eyes were completely covered by a bandage. I feel that could have been better reinforced.
The main action plot is fabulous and the final twist is excellent. However, I felt that the resolution came too quickly. The antagonist had invested a lot of time planning his actions and they were well thought out, so I would have expected more difficulty in achieving a final resolution.
The psychological plot continues a little longer and is well constructed. I was happy with the resolution of Gwen’s character arc.
The Setting
The general setting was great. It was easy to see where we were and what was happening. However, I had a few small issues.
My first problem was the introduction of potatoes into fifteenth-century Scotland over a hundred years before the first time any European saw a potato. When they appeared, it disrupted my suspension of disbelief.
The second was the lack of mentioning the use of Gaelic in the first three-quarters of the book. The language first gets mentioned when Gwen begins to use it toward the end of the novel. Her learning of the language isn’t well shown during the story development.
Then I wondered about the electronic music Gwen uses. There is mention of spare batteries, but they appear to have lasted for five years. There was no mention of a solar charger or any other means to charge the batteries. I was also surprised that there was no attempt to reconstruct the twenty-first-century music on their harpsichord.
The Prose
The prose was easy to follow and immersive. It encouraged me to keep turning the pages. However, Gwen’s part in the resolution of the action plot unfolded as a backstory narrated by witnesses rather than being shown to the reader as it happened. This telling version of the action was not satisfying. In fact, it was a little frustrating.
My Opinion
I enjoyed reading The Prophecy and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys time-travel romance novels. Its main action plot is action-packed and interesting, and I particularly liked Gavin’s part in the story.
However, I felt that the resolution to the main action plot was rushed and told rather than shown. There were also implausible elements in terms of the setting. For that reason, I’m going to rate this time-travel romance as 8 out of 10, which will translate to 4 out of 5 on Goodreads and Amazon.
The Prophecy is an action-packed, time-travel romance with wonderful characters and a thrilling main plot.
The Opening
The first chapter is fabulous. The first scene quickly establishes Gwen as a sympathetic and proactive character and is quite the in medias res opening. The second scene introduces her love interest, and there’s no doubt that he is due to the eponymous prophecy.
The Characters
Gwen is an awesome proactive and sympathetic character. She is relatable and interesting. She is a three-dimensional character, but more foreshadowing about her interest in exercise and the martial arts would have been nice before they become relevant to the plot.
Greylen is a little misogynistic but less than is frequently found in similar time travel romances. He is an interesting character with fantastic friendships and family relationships.
Gavin is the most complex and interesting character. He’s the one with a mysterious past and a dark secret. His character development arc is more interesting than any other character.
The Plot
The opening became a bit confusing for me because I didn’t at first realize Gwen’s eyes were completely covered by a bandage. I feel that could have been better reinforced.
The main action plot is fabulous and the final twist is excellent. However, I felt that the resolution came too quickly. The antagonist had invested a lot of time planning his actions and they were well thought out, so I would have expected more difficulty in achieving a final resolution.
The psychological plot continues a little longer and is well constructed. I was happy with the resolution of Gwen’s character arc.
The Setting
The general setting was great. It was easy to see where we were and what was happening. However, I had a few small issues.
My first problem was the introduction of potatoes into fifteenth-century Scotland over a hundred years before the first time any European saw a potato. When they appeared, it disrupted my suspension of disbelief.
The second was the lack of mentioning the use of Gaelic in the first three-quarters of the book. The language first gets mentioned when Gwen begins to use it toward the end of the novel. Her learning of the language isn’t well shown during the story development.
Then I wondered about the electronic music Gwen uses. There is mention of spare batteries, but they appear to have lasted for five years. There was no mention of a solar charger or any other means to charge the batteries. I was also surprised that there was no attempt to reconstruct the twenty-first-century music on their harpsichord.
The Prose
The prose was easy to follow and immersive. It encouraged me to keep turning the pages. However, Gwen’s part in the resolution of the action plot unfolded as a backstory narrated by witnesses rather than being shown to the reader as it happened. This telling version of the action was not satisfying. In fact, it was a little frustrating.
My Opinion
I enjoyed reading The Prophecy and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys time-travel romance novels. Its main action plot is action-packed and interesting, and I particularly liked Gavin’s part in the story.
However, I felt that the resolution to the main action plot was rushed and told rather than shown. There were also implausible elements in terms of the setting. For that reason, I’m going to rate this time-travel romance as 8 out of 10, which will translate to 4 out of 5 on Goodreads and Amazon.
September 4, 2023
I was smiling when I finished this book. Poor Gwendolyn really had a hard time though. She also found a wonderful man and a wonderful family.
August 20, 2023
Excellent story!
If you are a fan of Highland Scotts And especially a fan of time travel you will enjoy this book.
It is a story of two people, who by themselves were incomplete but when they were finally together they were a complete soul.
This couple fit together, like a hand in a glove. While
Greylen could be arrogant, Gwen was just as sassy right back. I would highly recommend this book.
If you are a fan of Highland Scotts And especially a fan of time travel you will enjoy this book.
It is a story of two people, who by themselves were incomplete but when they were finally together they were a complete soul.
This couple fit together, like a hand in a glove. While
Greylen could be arrogant, Gwen was just as sassy right back. I would highly recommend this book.
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