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Order of the Broken Blade #1
The Blacksmith
Four men. One mission—to save England. Love will have to wait...
Lance Wayland has a secret purpose for becoming Stanton Castle’s new master smith. He and his three closest friends are the founding members of the Order of the Broken Blade, formed to blunt the power of King John, whose outrageous taxes and unjust laws have taken a toll on the country they love. To succeed, they need money and men, both of which they can get from the Earl of Stanton. Lance’s mission is of vital importance, and can only be waylaid by one thing—his interest in the earl’s lovely daughter.
Idalia knows better than to think she’ll be allowed to marry a smith, yet Lance Wayland is the most compelling man she’s ever met—a welcome diversion from the stresses of running Stanton Castle and her mother’s illness. Although she knows the entanglement can go nowhere, their connection grows stronger each time they see each other, until she begins to forget all the reasons they should stay apart.
Although fate seems determined to keep them apart, Lance and Idalia are drawn together like moths to a flame. But can Lance pursue the woman he loves without betraying the order to which he’s pledged his troth?
................
SNIPPET FROM THE BLACKSMITH
“More than that, I would like nothing more than to lay you down on that altar, strip you of every bit of clothing, and show you much, much more than a simple kiss.”
He stood so close now Lance could smell the unique scent of citrus blossom that was Lady Idalia of Stanton.
“What,” she asked, swallowing, “would you show me?”
The combination of curiosity and fear in her tone, in her gaze, told him she knew this was wrong. It was madness, really. But she asked, so he answered.
“I would show you every song your body is capable of singing. I would show you what it means to die the little death and come back to life. I would show you all of me.”
That last bit, he’d not meant to say.
Lance Wayland has a secret purpose for becoming Stanton Castle’s new master smith. He and his three closest friends are the founding members of the Order of the Broken Blade, formed to blunt the power of King John, whose outrageous taxes and unjust laws have taken a toll on the country they love. To succeed, they need money and men, both of which they can get from the Earl of Stanton. Lance’s mission is of vital importance, and can only be waylaid by one thing—his interest in the earl’s lovely daughter.
Idalia knows better than to think she’ll be allowed to marry a smith, yet Lance Wayland is the most compelling man she’s ever met—a welcome diversion from the stresses of running Stanton Castle and her mother’s illness. Although she knows the entanglement can go nowhere, their connection grows stronger each time they see each other, until she begins to forget all the reasons they should stay apart.
Although fate seems determined to keep them apart, Lance and Idalia are drawn together like moths to a flame. But can Lance pursue the woman he loves without betraying the order to which he’s pledged his troth?
................
SNIPPET FROM THE BLACKSMITH
“More than that, I would like nothing more than to lay you down on that altar, strip you of every bit of clothing, and show you much, much more than a simple kiss.”
He stood so close now Lance could smell the unique scent of citrus blossom that was Lady Idalia of Stanton.
“What,” she asked, swallowing, “would you show me?”
The combination of curiosity and fear in her tone, in her gaze, told him she knew this was wrong. It was madness, really. But she asked, so he answered.
“I would show you every song your body is capable of singing. I would show you what it means to die the little death and come back to life. I would show you all of me.”
That last bit, he’d not meant to say.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 23, 2019
966 people are currently reading
664 people want to read
About the author
Cecelia Mecca
81 books811 followersYour escape awaits...
Cecelia Mecca is the bestselling author of steamy historical romance and also writes contemporary small town romance as Cissy Mecca and romantasy/PNR as C.L. Mecca.
Armed with a Ph.D. and lots of chai, she's known for giving readers "heroines who you want to be your best friend." When these ladies meet alpha-males who try to gain control, sparks fly until the very last page. One reader says, "No one can so completely whisk you away like Cecelia."
Our Highlander-loving author can be found in Northeast, Pennsylvania thinking up new ways to tame both medieval and contemporary bad boys. She is firmly House Stark and Gryffindor and loves all things fantasy, especially when tinged with a bit of steamy romance.
FREE prequels:
Jump into her worlds with a free prequel: https://meccaromance.com/cissy-mecca/insider/
Website www.meccaromance.com
Amazon: https://buff.ly/2M0g6FZ
TikTock: https://www.tiktok.com/@meccaromance
Reader Group: https://buff.ly/2OuFXLu
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meccaromance/
Cecelia Mecca is the bestselling author of steamy historical romance and also writes contemporary small town romance as Cissy Mecca and romantasy/PNR as C.L. Mecca.
Armed with a Ph.D. and lots of chai, she's known for giving readers "heroines who you want to be your best friend." When these ladies meet alpha-males who try to gain control, sparks fly until the very last page. One reader says, "No one can so completely whisk you away like Cecelia."
Our Highlander-loving author can be found in Northeast, Pennsylvania thinking up new ways to tame both medieval and contemporary bad boys. She is firmly House Stark and Gryffindor and loves all things fantasy, especially when tinged with a bit of steamy romance.
FREE prequels:
Jump into her worlds with a free prequel: https://meccaromance.com/cissy-mecca/insider/
Website www.meccaromance.com
Amazon: https://buff.ly/2M0g6FZ
TikTock: https://www.tiktok.com/@meccaromance
Reader Group: https://buff.ly/2OuFXLu
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meccaromance/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews
July 15, 2019
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Yes!
A wonderful first book for this new series by Cecelia Mecca .
It sets the scene perfectly and gives a great insight into the other characters and the journey and adventures come .
The key players Lance , Guy , Terric and Conrad .
All of them together making The Order Of The Broken Blade.
An organisation set to sweep the country looking for support against King John .
If found out all will be charged with treason , including anyone colluding with them .
The stakes are high and theirs no time to hang around falling in love and putting the plan into jeopardy.
Lance and Idalia however, they do things their own way , the two try to stay distant but destiny has its own plans .
I adore this new series, I’m sure the others will be just as good or in typical Mecca fashion, Better .
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
Yes!
A wonderful first book for this new series by Cecelia Mecca .
It sets the scene perfectly and gives a great insight into the other characters and the journey and adventures come .
The key players Lance , Guy , Terric and Conrad .
All of them together making The Order Of The Broken Blade.
An organisation set to sweep the country looking for support against King John .
If found out all will be charged with treason , including anyone colluding with them .
The stakes are high and theirs no time to hang around falling in love and putting the plan into jeopardy.
Lance and Idalia however, they do things their own way , the two try to stay distant but destiny has its own plans .
I adore this new series, I’m sure the others will be just as good or in typical Mecca fashion, Better .
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
February 14, 2021
In becoming the new master smith of Stanton Castle, Lance Wayland has an ulterior motive. He and his three closest friends have just formed the Order of the Broken Blade, dedicated to curbing King John's despotic power and easing the taxes that are choking England. The Order can get money and men from the Earl of Stanton, Lance just has to keep himself from being distracted by the earl's daughter.
Lady Idalia knows she'd never be permitted to marry a blacksmith, but Lance is the most handsome man she's ever set eyes on. She's under a lot of pressure running the castle and coping with her mother's worsening illness and interactions with Lance are a welcome respite. Despite all the reasons they shouldn't be together, a fierce bond develops between Idalia and Lance the more time they spend in one another's company and each must decide what is worth risking for love.
I love love loved this book! I think this is some of Cecelia's best writing yet. Swoonworthy, brooding hero. A heroine with some good sense (the kind that has been so uncommon in heroines I've read recently). An interesting overarching plot. A brotherhood of strong men with an unbreakable bond. This promises to be an amazing series and I can't wait for more.
I voluntarily read and reviewed and advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Lady Idalia knows she'd never be permitted to marry a blacksmith, but Lance is the most handsome man she's ever set eyes on. She's under a lot of pressure running the castle and coping with her mother's worsening illness and interactions with Lance are a welcome respite. Despite all the reasons they shouldn't be together, a fierce bond develops between Idalia and Lance the more time they spend in one another's company and each must decide what is worth risking for love.
I love love loved this book! I think this is some of Cecelia's best writing yet. Swoonworthy, brooding hero. A heroine with some good sense (the kind that has been so uncommon in heroines I've read recently). An interesting overarching plot. A brotherhood of strong men with an unbreakable bond. This promises to be an amazing series and I can't wait for more.
I voluntarily read and reviewed and advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
April 7, 2020
I really don't understand why this book has so many five star ratings.
Nothing happens. The characters do nothing. How did they even fall in love? Who are they? Where's the plot? I can't even remember what they look like.
It's painless and easy to read but it's not really giving you anything for it. Sorry.
Nothing happens. The characters do nothing. How did they even fall in love? Who are they? Where's the plot? I can't even remember what they look like.
It's painless and easy to read but it's not really giving you anything for it. Sorry.
July 10, 2019
I have been anxiously awaiting this new series and now that I've read the first book, I'm completely hooked! Who knew that a blacksmith could be so darn sexy??? This story introduces us to the Order of the Broken Blade whose main purpose is to stop King John from abusing his power. I really loved the explanation of how that name for the group came about.
Most of this story takes place at Stanton Castle where Lance is the new blacksmith. When he meets Idalia, the earl's daughter, it's instant attraction and even though they know nothing can come of it, they just can't resist each other! Every time they meet, the sparks fly and oh boy, does this author know how to write those scenes!! Lance wishes he could tell Idalia the true reason he's there but he must do everything to protect the order.
The whole story flowed so smoothly and everything was described so beautifully, I could just picture it all in my mind....the village, the market, the tower room, the blacksmith shop, etc. I really was brought into their world and enjoyed every minute of it!! I now look forward to the next books in this exciting series:)
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Most of this story takes place at Stanton Castle where Lance is the new blacksmith. When he meets Idalia, the earl's daughter, it's instant attraction and even though they know nothing can come of it, they just can't resist each other! Every time they meet, the sparks fly and oh boy, does this author know how to write those scenes!! Lance wishes he could tell Idalia the true reason he's there but he must do everything to protect the order.
The whole story flowed so smoothly and everything was described so beautifully, I could just picture it all in my mind....the village, the market, the tower room, the blacksmith shop, etc. I really was brought into their world and enjoyed every minute of it!! I now look forward to the next books in this exciting series:)
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
March 4, 2020
3.5 Stars.
This was a sweet historical romance that held my attention all the way through but lacked the depth and complexity I crave in a story. I was hoping for more story, more broken blade intrigue. What I got was romance and not much else. Which is fine if that is what you're seeking.
This was a sweet historical romance that held my attention all the way through but lacked the depth and complexity I crave in a story. I was hoping for more story, more broken blade intrigue. What I got was romance and not much else. Which is fine if that is what you're seeking.
Read
October 12, 2019DNF at 41%. Sorry. This really bored me and the storytelling style was too much telling, not enough showing. Many phrases were also repeated which added to the boredom factor.
November 20, 2020
DNF 20%
Could not keep my attention.
Could not keep my attention.
July 12, 2019
The Blacksmith is the first book in the new series by Cecelia Mecca, Order of the Broken Blade.
Lance Wayland takes on the job as Master Blacksmith working for the Earl of Stanton. It's a position taken mostly to allow him to work out if the Earl is for or against their King. Although treasonous, Lance and three of his friends have become the Order of the Broken Blade. They want to stop King John's unjust laws and unfair taxes. Four men alone can't achieve that, so each man will do what he must in order to recruit both men and money for their cause. The Earl of Stanton can supply both if he indeed is on their side.
Idalia is the middle daughter of Stanton's. With her mother very ill in bed, feared to be dying, it has fallen to Idalia to take on most of the work her mother used to do. She never even thinks to complain although she dearly would love a break from it all. When she greets Lance she is nearly speechless from the attraction she feels to him. He is equally attracted to her and it isn't long before she finds excuses to spend time with him. The more they get to know each other, the more they think about a future together but that it can't be possible between them. That doesn't stop them sharing some very passionate kisses and sometimes more. Lance knows he should use their relationship to find out where her father stands with regards to the king, but if he does surely it will ruin their budding romance. Surely though, he needs to put the Order and its cause before his heart. He can't let his heart rule his head.
The romance and passion between Lance and Idalia were beautiful. I really enjoyed seeing how their relationship developed and how they dealt with the dilemmas that came up because of not only who he is, but what he is. A blacksmith could never marry a Lady regardless of his treasonous activities, or could he?
As well as the romantic side of the story, what I loved about this and many of this author's books is that even if there was no romance, the books are exciting. Once you start reading them you don't want to put them down. In this book, I was anxious to find out if Stanton would help them with their cause. I also love a good battle against tyrants and although it's early stages in the series, I look forward to seeing the Order grow and see what they do in order to bring the King to his senses. There was also a very emotional part in the story involving Idalia's mother, I admit that I got a bit teary-eyed then. This book definitely had me running the gamut of emotions!
I absolutely recommend this book and can't wait for the next one.
Lance Wayland takes on the job as Master Blacksmith working for the Earl of Stanton. It's a position taken mostly to allow him to work out if the Earl is for or against their King. Although treasonous, Lance and three of his friends have become the Order of the Broken Blade. They want to stop King John's unjust laws and unfair taxes. Four men alone can't achieve that, so each man will do what he must in order to recruit both men and money for their cause. The Earl of Stanton can supply both if he indeed is on their side.
Idalia is the middle daughter of Stanton's. With her mother very ill in bed, feared to be dying, it has fallen to Idalia to take on most of the work her mother used to do. She never even thinks to complain although she dearly would love a break from it all. When she greets Lance she is nearly speechless from the attraction she feels to him. He is equally attracted to her and it isn't long before she finds excuses to spend time with him. The more they get to know each other, the more they think about a future together but that it can't be possible between them. That doesn't stop them sharing some very passionate kisses and sometimes more. Lance knows he should use their relationship to find out where her father stands with regards to the king, but if he does surely it will ruin their budding romance. Surely though, he needs to put the Order and its cause before his heart. He can't let his heart rule his head.
The romance and passion between Lance and Idalia were beautiful. I really enjoyed seeing how their relationship developed and how they dealt with the dilemmas that came up because of not only who he is, but what he is. A blacksmith could never marry a Lady regardless of his treasonous activities, or could he?
As well as the romantic side of the story, what I loved about this and many of this author's books is that even if there was no romance, the books are exciting. Once you start reading them you don't want to put them down. In this book, I was anxious to find out if Stanton would help them with their cause. I also love a good battle against tyrants and although it's early stages in the series, I look forward to seeing the Order grow and see what they do in order to bring the King to his senses. There was also a very emotional part in the story involving Idalia's mother, I admit that I got a bit teary-eyed then. This book definitely had me running the gamut of emotions!
I absolutely recommend this book and can't wait for the next one.
July 24, 2019
Northumbria, England, 1214 The beginning of "The Order of the Broken Blade." Four men. "Knight or blacksmith, earl or mercenary...none of their titles, or lack thereof, would matter if they were exposed as traitors to the crown." An amazing start to this new series by one of my favorite authors in historical fiction. I fell in love with her Border Series and was sad to see it end, but she has captured my imagination and heart again with these beloved characters.
A man on a mission, Lance Wayland has taken the job as blacksmith at Stanton Castle. His goal to find where loyalties lie with the Earl of Stanton and who can be persuaded to join them in the fight against King John. But wouldn't you know it? A beautiful woman gets in the way of his attention and he is having a hard time resisting her! Lady Idalia, middle daughter to the Earl!
Perfection! Cecelia Mecca never ceases to amaze me with her descriptions of surroundings and history of the times that always make me feel I am there (oh I wish!). The characters become familiar and the emotions come off the pages!
A strong, sigh worthy hero and a lady out of his league who is attracted to him as well. Suspense, intrigue and a brotherhood that cannot be broken. What more can you ask for? Another keeper that will go on my favorites shelf and not soon be forgotten!!
A man on a mission, Lance Wayland has taken the job as blacksmith at Stanton Castle. His goal to find where loyalties lie with the Earl of Stanton and who can be persuaded to join them in the fight against King John. But wouldn't you know it? A beautiful woman gets in the way of his attention and he is having a hard time resisting her! Lady Idalia, middle daughter to the Earl!
Perfection! Cecelia Mecca never ceases to amaze me with her descriptions of surroundings and history of the times that always make me feel I am there (oh I wish!). The characters become familiar and the emotions come off the pages!
A strong, sigh worthy hero and a lady out of his league who is attracted to him as well. Suspense, intrigue and a brotherhood that cannot be broken. What more can you ask for? Another keeper that will go on my favorites shelf and not soon be forgotten!!
July 10, 2019
This is the first book in a new series by Cecelia Mecca and if you are already a fan, it certainly lives up to what we have come to expect from her stories. If you have never read one of her books, this is a good place to start, you won't be disappointed.
I have been anxiously awaiting this book since Cecelia announced the new series. This book has both romance and intrigue. Set in a time where even an innocent remark against the King can result in the loss of your freedom or worse life to actually try and thwart the Kings actions is treason. A group of men are trying to stop the Kings tyranny and must garner support in order to do so. Each is tasked with obtaining the support of a particular noble. I thoroughly enjoyed the Blacksmiths journey in his task. There is chemistry and sizzle between the characters. There are bonds of brotherhood that far exceed mere friendship. There is romance, and it is HOT. There is intrigue that will keep you from putting the book down!
I have been anxiously awaiting this book since Cecelia announced the new series. This book has both romance and intrigue. Set in a time where even an innocent remark against the King can result in the loss of your freedom or worse life to actually try and thwart the Kings actions is treason. A group of men are trying to stop the Kings tyranny and must garner support in order to do so. Each is tasked with obtaining the support of a particular noble. I thoroughly enjoyed the Blacksmiths journey in his task. There is chemistry and sizzle between the characters. There are bonds of brotherhood that far exceed mere friendship. There is romance, and it is HOT. There is intrigue that will keep you from putting the book down!
May 23, 2020
The Blacksmith: A Forbidden Love Medieval Romance (Order of The Broken Blade Book 1) by Cecelia Mecca.
The exciting new series “Order of the Broken Blade” is about four friends who band together to form a knight’s order to stop King John of England from his tyranny of policies, kidnappings, and extremely high taxes.
Lance is sent to be the new Master Blacksmith for the Earl of Stanton with the mission to garner the Earl’s support to join their uprising against the king. Idalia is the Earl’s daughter who runs the castle in place of her sick mother. Lance and Idalia both find a surprising attraction between them that grows stronger everyday they spend getting to know each other, until the mission comes between them. The storyline is well written, with adventure, intrigue, danger, great world building, witty dialogue, great in-depth characters, and a steamy romance that will heat up your blanket. Happy Reading♥️
The exciting new series “Order of the Broken Blade” is about four friends who band together to form a knight’s order to stop King John of England from his tyranny of policies, kidnappings, and extremely high taxes.
Lance is sent to be the new Master Blacksmith for the Earl of Stanton with the mission to garner the Earl’s support to join their uprising against the king. Idalia is the Earl’s daughter who runs the castle in place of her sick mother. Lance and Idalia both find a surprising attraction between them that grows stronger everyday they spend getting to know each other, until the mission comes between them. The storyline is well written, with adventure, intrigue, danger, great world building, witty dialogue, great in-depth characters, and a steamy romance that will heat up your blanket. Happy Reading♥️
April 25, 2020
Not much history, a bland romance
"This is treason." What a great first line! Romance was love at first sight, with secret meetings because of the difference in their stations. We learn some of Lance's childhood, but not Idalia's, and certainly not enough for us to love these characters, cheer them on, and need to read more of the series. The plot isn't as fast moving or as intense as I thought a rebellion would be; any details about the Order and its specific aims were almost non-existent and certainly not urgent; it's barely discussed until about 70%. Plus, there's no historical details to make this more interesting. I had to look it up; their revolt is against the King John that inherits because Richard the Lionheart, his brother, dies.
Do I need to read books before this one: no
Would I read more of the series: maybe, just to see how she describes what happens with King John
Cliffhanger: somewhat; the relationship is assured, the revolt continues
POSSIBLE TRIGGERS
Sex: all varieties of sex, 3 scenes
Language: 0 F words, 12 Lord's name in vain, 0 S words
Violence: reports of spousal abuse
"This is treason." What a great first line! Romance was love at first sight, with secret meetings because of the difference in their stations. We learn some of Lance's childhood, but not Idalia's, and certainly not enough for us to love these characters, cheer them on, and need to read more of the series. The plot isn't as fast moving or as intense as I thought a rebellion would be; any details about the Order and its specific aims were almost non-existent and certainly not urgent; it's barely discussed until about 70%. Plus, there's no historical details to make this more interesting. I had to look it up; their revolt is against the King John that inherits because Richard the Lionheart, his brother, dies.
Do I need to read books before this one: no
Would I read more of the series: maybe, just to see how she describes what happens with King John
Cliffhanger: somewhat; the relationship is assured, the revolt continues
POSSIBLE TRIGGERS
Sex: all varieties of sex, 3 scenes
Language: 0 F words, 12 Lord's name in vain, 0 S words
Violence: reports of spousal abuse
June 30, 2024
sweet and simple
A sweet and simple read. I connected with the characters which is a major thing for me. I really did like Lance! Not as spicy as I like them but not a puritan thing either. Will give the next book in the series a try.
A sweet and simple read. I connected with the characters which is a major thing for me. I really did like Lance! Not as spicy as I like them but not a puritan thing either. Will give the next book in the series a try.
Want to read
March 28, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/28/2020)! 🎁
July 19, 2019
The Blacksmith
Order of the Broken Blade #1
Cecelia Mecca
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lance Wayland is Stanton Castle's newest blacksmith, but that's not really why he's come to this particular place. He and his three closest friends are the founding members of the Order Of the Broken Blade. Now you may wonder what that is so I'll definitely try to tell you. The four lifelong friends have formed this order to try to lessen the power that King John has because he's abusing this power in a way that is hurting the people. King John is charging outrageous taxes and his unjust laws are ruining the country. To succeed in overthrowing the King they will need men and plenty of money, which they can get from the Earl of Stanton if he agrees to join the order. Lance knows this is a vital mission, one in which he has to succeed, but there is one thing threatening this mission and that would be the Earl of Stanton's beautiful daughter.
Idalia knows she will never be allowed to marry the blacksmith. She's an Earl's daughter and that just doesn't happen. She knows how it works yet a girl can have her dreams can't she? Lance is a more then welcome distraction from the stress of running a castle plus he's the most compelling yet slightly astounding man she has ever met. She knows what they have can never go anywhere especially with her Mother lying ill in bed, but her feelings are growing stronger by the day.
Although fate seems to want to keep them apart they will find their way to eachother time and time again. But can Lance take this chance? To peruse the woman he loves without betraying the order to which he is totally and completely committed to?
Cecelia Mecca has me sitting here stunned in silence trying to pluck the words from thin air that are all jumbled around me. This was one of the best books that I have ever had the pleasure of reading. This author knows what we the readers want. Lance and Idelia had a chemistry that was so hot it almost had the pages smoking. They were two of the most likeable main characters I have ever come across and I couldn't find any faults in them. Their love was adorable and their loyalty was admirable. The book as a whole was so hard to set down for any length of time. It was a real page turner that gripped me and sucked me in at the start and spit me out leaving me with so much to ponder. Ms. Mecca this book is a winner and I can't wait to see what you come up with next.
Order of the Broken Blade #1
Cecelia Mecca
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lance Wayland is Stanton Castle's newest blacksmith, but that's not really why he's come to this particular place. He and his three closest friends are the founding members of the Order Of the Broken Blade. Now you may wonder what that is so I'll definitely try to tell you. The four lifelong friends have formed this order to try to lessen the power that King John has because he's abusing this power in a way that is hurting the people. King John is charging outrageous taxes and his unjust laws are ruining the country. To succeed in overthrowing the King they will need men and plenty of money, which they can get from the Earl of Stanton if he agrees to join the order. Lance knows this is a vital mission, one in which he has to succeed, but there is one thing threatening this mission and that would be the Earl of Stanton's beautiful daughter.
Idalia knows she will never be allowed to marry the blacksmith. She's an Earl's daughter and that just doesn't happen. She knows how it works yet a girl can have her dreams can't she? Lance is a more then welcome distraction from the stress of running a castle plus he's the most compelling yet slightly astounding man she has ever met. She knows what they have can never go anywhere especially with her Mother lying ill in bed, but her feelings are growing stronger by the day.
Although fate seems to want to keep them apart they will find their way to eachother time and time again. But can Lance take this chance? To peruse the woman he loves without betraying the order to which he is totally and completely committed to?
Cecelia Mecca has me sitting here stunned in silence trying to pluck the words from thin air that are all jumbled around me. This was one of the best books that I have ever had the pleasure of reading. This author knows what we the readers want. Lance and Idelia had a chemistry that was so hot it almost had the pages smoking. They were two of the most likeable main characters I have ever come across and I couldn't find any faults in them. Their love was adorable and their loyalty was admirable. The book as a whole was so hard to set down for any length of time. It was a real page turner that gripped me and sucked me in at the start and spit me out leaving me with so much to ponder. Ms. Mecca this book is a winner and I can't wait to see what you come up with next.
July 21, 2019
Four men. One mission— to save England from the ravages of King John
Lance Wayland has a secret purpose for becoming Stanton Castle’s new smith. He and his three closest friends, Guy, Terric and Conrad are the founding members of the Order of the Broken Blade, formed to blunt the power of King John, whose outrageous acts have taken a toll on their country. To succeed, they need money and men, both of which they can get from the Earl of Stanton. Lance’s mission is of vital importance, and can only be waylaid by one thing his interest in the earl’s lovely daughter.
Idalia knows better than to think she’ll be allowed to marry a smith, yet Lance Wayland is the most compelling man she’s ever met a welcome diversion from the stresses of running Stanton Castle and her mother’s illness.
This is the first in a new series & what a series it looks to be. As with all series starters it needs to set the scene for the series & it does so beautifully. The four friends are introduced at the beginning & their reasons for forming a traitorous group are mapped out. The pace of the book was very good & flowed effortlessly & of course I read it in well under a day, as I was loath to put it down. The characters are so well portrayed. I loved Lance & Idalia the chemistry between them was apparent from their first meeting & the air around them fairly crackled, I loved how their relationship developed from attraction, to liking, to love it was so believable. An engrossing, captivating romance, I’m SO looking forward to the rest of the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Lance Wayland has a secret purpose for becoming Stanton Castle’s new smith. He and his three closest friends, Guy, Terric and Conrad are the founding members of the Order of the Broken Blade, formed to blunt the power of King John, whose outrageous acts have taken a toll on their country. To succeed, they need money and men, both of which they can get from the Earl of Stanton. Lance’s mission is of vital importance, and can only be waylaid by one thing his interest in the earl’s lovely daughter.
Idalia knows better than to think she’ll be allowed to marry a smith, yet Lance Wayland is the most compelling man she’s ever met a welcome diversion from the stresses of running Stanton Castle and her mother’s illness.
This is the first in a new series & what a series it looks to be. As with all series starters it needs to set the scene for the series & it does so beautifully. The four friends are introduced at the beginning & their reasons for forming a traitorous group are mapped out. The pace of the book was very good & flowed effortlessly & of course I read it in well under a day, as I was loath to put it down. The characters are so well portrayed. I loved Lance & Idalia the chemistry between them was apparent from their first meeting & the air around them fairly crackled, I loved how their relationship developed from attraction, to liking, to love it was so believable. An engrossing, captivating romance, I’m SO looking forward to the rest of the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
July 23, 2019
Let me start by saying that all books I've read by Cecelia Mecca have never left me disappointed, and this new series is going to be stellar!
THE BLACKSMITH is truly exceptional in its depth given to its characters and settings. Lance Wayland is a knight but a master blacksmith. I could feel the heat of the forge as Lance works the steel as described by the aurhor.
The ORDER OF THE BROKEN BLADE is formed by lance and his friends, Guy, Terric and Conrad. Their mission , to gather enough support from those lords who will stand and fight King John. Treason, for sure if they are caught. Lance is sent to Stanton Castle in this quest for support against the king....enter the daughter of this Lord, and it's sparks flying immediately from mutual the attraction ...
Want more??? Read this book and be swept away ...LOVE IT,CECELIA MECCA!!! And i cant wait for the next book!
cecelia-mecca
*I recieved an ARC of this book and this is my review honestly and freely given*
THE BLACKSMITH is truly exceptional in its depth given to its characters and settings. Lance Wayland is a knight but a master blacksmith. I could feel the heat of the forge as Lance works the steel as described by the aurhor.
The ORDER OF THE BROKEN BLADE is formed by lance and his friends, Guy, Terric and Conrad. Their mission , to gather enough support from those lords who will stand and fight King John. Treason, for sure if they are caught. Lance is sent to Stanton Castle in this quest for support against the king....enter the daughter of this Lord, and it's sparks flying immediately from mutual the attraction ...
Want more??? Read this book and be swept away ...LOVE IT,CECELIA MECCA!!! And i cant wait for the next book!
cecelia-mecca
*I recieved an ARC of this book and this is my review honestly and freely given*
May 10, 2021
The Blacksmith, by Cecelia Mecca. This was a sweet book to read. I loved the romance between Lance and Idalia. I found it to be very romantic, a bit naughty and very steamy. I liked that the writer really took the time to go into the details of the love affair between the two. As swept as I was about the romantic parts of the book the plot to the story feel it hindered the enjoyment of the book. It worked against the entertainment and the suspense of the book.
January 1, 2023
This man said ‘husband is my favorite title.’ SIR! Love a dude who is head over heels devoted. Absolutely smitten. Idalia and Lance are both wonderful and perfect for each other. I cannot wait for the rest of the books in the series!
December 28, 2022
2022 reads, #61. A growing amount of my freelance clients are the authors of cheap quick genre novels, meant to be consumed by their audience through the Kindle Unlimited program (a relatively new feature of Amazon, in which for one flat monthly fee, members can read as many quick cheap genre novels as they can possibly get through in 30 days); and so that has me starting to heavily read in these specialized genres for the first time in my life, especially when it comes to crime, fantasy and romance books, since I've never been a natural fan of these particular genres myself in my personal life, which means I have a lot of catching up to do if I want to service my clients as well as I can. So for example, early this week I got the latest promotional email from marketing company BookFunnel.com, which a couple of my clients use, letting me know of the latest hundred or so romance books that I can now download for free through their service, in return for signing up for these authors' newsletters; and instead of ignoring it like I usually do, this time I went over and actually downloaded seven titles from the unending page of identical overly Photoshopped covers of shirtless hunky badboys, and thought I would try blazing through them one a day this week just to get an idea of what the average KU customer goes through when hunting and pecking through these endless slush piles themselves.
This is now my third book of the run (see also Candy Quinn's Shipwrecked Beauty and Bella Beaumont's Can't Stop Won't Stop ), and one that slowed down my streak of a book per day by a few extra days, because this turned out to be the first full-length actual three-act book I've read through this promotion so far, a telling sign of its higher quality in general. And indeed, this is a real textbook example of how to get a quick-reading Kindle Unlimited romance novel right, because it hits all the right tropes at all the right moments but still keeps the fundamentals of genre storytelling at a high level. Set in the Evil King John period of 1200s England (the same setting as the Robin Hood stories), it's the story of a France-loving blacksmith who's secretly also a knight in a Templar-type organization devoted to taking down John from the inside; at his next boss's castle, where he specifically inserted himself in order to gauge the earl's chances of supporting a rebellion, he doesn't expect to fall in love with the earl's beautiful, headstrong, curiously modern and progressive daughter (ah, but who ever does?).
The thing that really strikes me here, which I've noticed before and have recently added to the essay of romance advice I'm putting together for an upcoming issue of my free editing newsletter, is how the best romance novels present a male romantic lead who's not this type of guy or that type of guy, but is instead every type of guy for every occasion, with directly competing aspects of his personality that manifest themselves at the exact most perfect time for the female romantic lead to be impressed, attracted or aroused by (depending on the situation), almost as if he can somehow magically read her mind. While this infuriates me as an actual guy who actually exists in the actual world (and goes a long way towards explaining why so many of my exes in my early twenties acted the way they did, as if offended that I couldn't read their minds), I have to admit that this is really effective in a romance novel designed for a fanbase of 95% women, and when done right like is the case here makes it easy to see why fans of the genre can get so sucked in so thoroughly. That makes our hunky hero Lance (or "Sir Lance" if you're Frenchy) really compelling, because he can be a strict follower of traditional gender roles one moment and suddenly a radically progressive supporter of modern women's rights the next, aggressive and territorial about love one moment and suddenly reticent and intimate the next. When you combine this, then, with a main female lead who's deliberately shown as kind of a smart nerd, but not afraid of a little hard work (it's established in the backstory that the earl's daughter, Idalia, was already a fan of visiting the smithing forge even during the last blacksmith's time, which gives her a convenient excuse for she and Lance to spend time together), this provides a really engaging couple to put into a will-they-won't-they situation, fraught with all the subsumed eroticism that comes with the High-Chivalry period of the Medieval years.
What seals it all up, though, is author Cecelia Mecca's devotion to period accuracy, authentic-sounding dialogue, and strange and wonderfully odd details to add the whole thing a little color; witness for example the lovingly convoluted story that goes into explaining why their castle has this one lone interior abandoned tower not connected to anything else, which Idalia has used since childhood as her secret little book-reading nerd getaway spot, which adds this nicely concrete visual image that helps flesh out this northern British castle and regional market location where our story takes place. It's nothing spectacular, mind you, but the writing's every bit as good as a random episode of a Medieval-style show on cable TV, whether that's House of Dragons or The Rings of Power, The Wheel of Time, etc. In fact, that's probably a good litmus test -- if you can write a spec script for your favorite genre television show that sounds like an actual episode of that show, you're skilled enough to churn out quick but above-average novels in that genre for Kindle Unlimited fans. Plus, I have to admit, it's the only romance novel I've ever read in my life so far that made me legitimately interested in reading the rest of the books in the series; and that's a big leap forward for someone who not even ten years ago was still actively making fun of this genre, like a large portion of America continues to do to this day. Coming next, Pearl Tate's sci-fi "fated mates" tale Mate Exposed, so join me again in a few days for that; but in the meanwhile, I give The Blacksmith a ringing endorsement, a solid example of a High Medieval tale (basically Tolkien fantasy without the dragons or hobbits) that will scratch all the itches of the usual romance fan.
This is now my third book of the run (see also Candy Quinn's Shipwrecked Beauty and Bella Beaumont's Can't Stop Won't Stop ), and one that slowed down my streak of a book per day by a few extra days, because this turned out to be the first full-length actual three-act book I've read through this promotion so far, a telling sign of its higher quality in general. And indeed, this is a real textbook example of how to get a quick-reading Kindle Unlimited romance novel right, because it hits all the right tropes at all the right moments but still keeps the fundamentals of genre storytelling at a high level. Set in the Evil King John period of 1200s England (the same setting as the Robin Hood stories), it's the story of a France-loving blacksmith who's secretly also a knight in a Templar-type organization devoted to taking down John from the inside; at his next boss's castle, where he specifically inserted himself in order to gauge the earl's chances of supporting a rebellion, he doesn't expect to fall in love with the earl's beautiful, headstrong, curiously modern and progressive daughter (ah, but who ever does?).
The thing that really strikes me here, which I've noticed before and have recently added to the essay of romance advice I'm putting together for an upcoming issue of my free editing newsletter, is how the best romance novels present a male romantic lead who's not this type of guy or that type of guy, but is instead every type of guy for every occasion, with directly competing aspects of his personality that manifest themselves at the exact most perfect time for the female romantic lead to be impressed, attracted or aroused by (depending on the situation), almost as if he can somehow magically read her mind. While this infuriates me as an actual guy who actually exists in the actual world (and goes a long way towards explaining why so many of my exes in my early twenties acted the way they did, as if offended that I couldn't read their minds), I have to admit that this is really effective in a romance novel designed for a fanbase of 95% women, and when done right like is the case here makes it easy to see why fans of the genre can get so sucked in so thoroughly. That makes our hunky hero Lance (or "Sir Lance" if you're Frenchy) really compelling, because he can be a strict follower of traditional gender roles one moment and suddenly a radically progressive supporter of modern women's rights the next, aggressive and territorial about love one moment and suddenly reticent and intimate the next. When you combine this, then, with a main female lead who's deliberately shown as kind of a smart nerd, but not afraid of a little hard work (it's established in the backstory that the earl's daughter, Idalia, was already a fan of visiting the smithing forge even during the last blacksmith's time, which gives her a convenient excuse for she and Lance to spend time together), this provides a really engaging couple to put into a will-they-won't-they situation, fraught with all the subsumed eroticism that comes with the High-Chivalry period of the Medieval years.
What seals it all up, though, is author Cecelia Mecca's devotion to period accuracy, authentic-sounding dialogue, and strange and wonderfully odd details to add the whole thing a little color; witness for example the lovingly convoluted story that goes into explaining why their castle has this one lone interior abandoned tower not connected to anything else, which Idalia has used since childhood as her secret little book-reading nerd getaway spot, which adds this nicely concrete visual image that helps flesh out this northern British castle and regional market location where our story takes place. It's nothing spectacular, mind you, but the writing's every bit as good as a random episode of a Medieval-style show on cable TV, whether that's House of Dragons or The Rings of Power, The Wheel of Time, etc. In fact, that's probably a good litmus test -- if you can write a spec script for your favorite genre television show that sounds like an actual episode of that show, you're skilled enough to churn out quick but above-average novels in that genre for Kindle Unlimited fans. Plus, I have to admit, it's the only romance novel I've ever read in my life so far that made me legitimately interested in reading the rest of the books in the series; and that's a big leap forward for someone who not even ten years ago was still actively making fun of this genre, like a large portion of America continues to do to this day. Coming next, Pearl Tate's sci-fi "fated mates" tale Mate Exposed, so join me again in a few days for that; but in the meanwhile, I give The Blacksmith a ringing endorsement, a solid example of a High Medieval tale (basically Tolkien fantasy without the dragons or hobbits) that will scratch all the itches of the usual romance fan.
July 23, 2019
WOW… What a way to start a new series!!! The Blacksmith by Cecelia Mecca is probably one of my favorites but than again every time I read a new release of Cecelia’s I say the same thing. If you have not read one of her book you just don’t know what you are missing. This story is so creative and original and there is nothing better then a medieval border story to catch my interest so just be prepared to stay up all night reading this story, you won’t be able to put it down! Fabulous characters! This story has love at first sight, an illness, forbidden love, starting a rebellion, kindness, loyalties, duty, to persuade, but the real question is can a love that is forbidden be allowed? You will just have to read this book and find out and believe me it is awesome!!
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
July 25, 2019
He has a mission. She has many responsibilities and few choices. Love complicates his plans.
I very much enjoyed this well written romance. The characters have great chemistry. The story has a good mix of romance and intrigue and takes on some important societal issues of the era. I look forward to reading more about the other characters.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
I very much enjoyed this well written romance. The characters have great chemistry. The story has a good mix of romance and intrigue and takes on some important societal issues of the era. I look forward to reading more about the other characters.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
April 17, 2020
A Good and Fun read. The Order of the Broken Blade had its origins when 4 boys met at a tournament, 2 of them were of noble blood and two were of common stock and they forged a friendship born of their dreams of knighthood or for Lance, a way of training to be a good fighter. Their bond was further enhanced when they saved their friend Terric's sister from being raped by a king's man and the villain broke Conrad's sword yet still that broken blade in Conrad's hands killed the dastard and left it in him. Lance tried to retrieve the broken sword so as not to point to its ownership (for the broken blade was yet again broken at the hilt when he tried to pull it out and that was what was left of Conrad's sword). Among the 4 friends, Lance was the only one not knighted so Sir Conrad knighted him as a member of their exclusive Order... a group of knights plotting treason against an unjust king who mercilessly taxed his people to finance his continuous war with France. Lance's mission was to find out where Lord Stanton's true allegiance lie by replacing the castle's beloved blacksmith, who died. With enough support from the Border Lords, they plan on forcing King John to desist from imposing any more onerous taxes. Lance may have planned on treason against his king but he did not expect his heart to turn traitor... much to his friend Guy's amusement.
April 13, 2020
The plot seemed to overly rely on Lance's guilt over hiding his secret mission from Idalia. There were hardly any difficulties outside of that for either character, the only one being Idalia's mother's illness, and even that was something that never developed much. I expected the priest who was suggesting that her illness was a sign of the devil's influence to rile up some villagers or something, but he never appeared on page and was sent away at the end. I expected someone at Stanton to suspect Lance was sowing rebellion, but no one ever came close. I expected Lance and Idalia to get caught necking, but no one ever did (although several characters figured it out after all the longing glances).
I did like the overall writing style, and the historical/political detail was done with a light touch. Would've liked the sex scenes to be heavier, but that's just personal preference. And I did like that Lance acknowledged Idalia's intelligence beyond what a lady of the time was expected to have, and that he sought to listen to her and see her as a full person.
Wouldn't mind reading more by this author.
I did like the overall writing style, and the historical/political detail was done with a light touch. Would've liked the sex scenes to be heavier, but that's just personal preference. And I did like that Lance acknowledged Idalia's intelligence beyond what a lady of the time was expected to have, and that he sought to listen to her and see her as a full person.
Wouldn't mind reading more by this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 30, 2021
Nothing happens in this book. It was nothing but the hero constantly thinking he should not involve the heroine in his actions, that he should not meet her, but he will meet her, even though he shouldn't meet her, but he had to meet with her, and over and over and over. It was so tedious and irritating.
It makes no sense why they fall in love. They barely see or speak to the other. It's just them both thinking over and over about the one time they did and the reader being made to re-read it over and over. Again, it's painfully tedious.
Nothing happens. It's actually shocking it got any reviews. The writing style is so dull, no interest is created by it. It also has problems, it's riddled with poor and wrong punctuation, missing punctuation, random commas in wrong places, full stops in wrong places, breaking up sentences, meaning they weren't complete and didn't make sense. The grammar was poor and there were mixed up tenses. Irritating, nothing of a story.
It makes no sense why they fall in love. They barely see or speak to the other. It's just them both thinking over and over about the one time they did and the reader being made to re-read it over and over. Again, it's painfully tedious.
Nothing happens. It's actually shocking it got any reviews. The writing style is so dull, no interest is created by it. It also has problems, it's riddled with poor and wrong punctuation, missing punctuation, random commas in wrong places, full stops in wrong places, breaking up sentences, meaning they weren't complete and didn't make sense. The grammar was poor and there were mixed up tenses. Irritating, nothing of a story.
March 2, 2021
C. S.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Short But Packed With An Epic Romance Story
A good start to a new series of 4 books. A short book but a wonderful read. I loved all of the characters and the plot which will continue through the series. This book is a complete story with no cliff hangers. To get the full impact you would want to read all 4 books. The romance had just the right amount of intimate pleasures and steaminess for me. Intimate rating very warm. The story moved at a fast pace with no dull moments. I highly recommend this story if you like a well written steamy romance story.
April 5, 2020
Sweet romance, interesting characters, well-drawn world
I loved coming to know Idalia and Lance as we watch their growing attraction to, and interest in, each other. Their curiosity about each other, their taking chances by being direct and truthful with each other, made their conversations fresh and sweet. It's delightful to see their discoveries of self and each othe and their caring for, and encouragement of, each other. Their happy ending is made possible by Idalia and Lance standing up for themselves to her parents and each other in ways they never imagined they could.
I loved coming to know Idalia and Lance as we watch their growing attraction to, and interest in, each other. Their curiosity about each other, their taking chances by being direct and truthful with each other, made their conversations fresh and sweet. It's delightful to see their discoveries of self and each othe and their caring for, and encouragement of, each other. Their happy ending is made possible by Idalia and Lance standing up for themselves to her parents and each other in ways they never imagined they could.
March 20, 2024
My rating: 4.5
Tropes: Historical - Knights - Hidden Identity
Heat: 7/10
Emotion 7/10
Story: 6/10
Characters: 7/10
Interest: 6/10
Writing Style: 7/10
POV: Dual
No Cheating
"The Blacksmith" is a cute historical story.
What I did Like:
- Both characters were good
- There is no unnecessary drama
- Nice secondary characters
What I did not Like:
- The story was a little flat for me
Overall, there was the perfect amount of steam, plot and emotions.
I like Cecelia Mecca's writing and i will keep on reading her books.
Tropes: Historical - Knights - Hidden Identity
Heat: 7/10
Emotion 7/10
Story: 6/10
Characters: 7/10
Interest: 6/10
Writing Style: 7/10
POV: Dual
No Cheating
"The Blacksmith" is a cute historical story.
What I did Like:
- Both characters were good
- There is no unnecessary drama
- Nice secondary characters
What I did not Like:
- The story was a little flat for me
Overall, there was the perfect amount of steam, plot and emotions.
I like Cecelia Mecca's writing and i will keep on reading her books.
October 10, 2020
A Great Start
A good foundation for this series. Lance and Idalia's story is a great story to start with. A sweet love story, with good characterizations of the people involved. This story will draw you into the next in the series. A STAND ALONE with a HEA for this book. The series....well, you'll have to come along to see for yourself.
Thank you for your time, talent and THE STORY.
A good foundation for this series. Lance and Idalia's story is a great story to start with. A sweet love story, with good characterizations of the people involved. This story will draw you into the next in the series. A STAND ALONE with a HEA for this book. The series....well, you'll have to come along to see for yourself.
Thank you for your time, talent and THE STORY.
March 2, 2021
Looking for low angst interclass romance? This is it! Low on character development but high on adorable pining? Sweet little story with a quietly badass heroine and a gentle giant of a hero.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 rounded up
Steam: 🔥.5
Tropes: cinnamon roll hero, interclass romance, blacksmith hero, lady of the castle
Subgenre: historic romance - medieval
CW/ TW: discussion of witnessing a rape
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 rounded up
Steam: 🔥.5
Tropes: cinnamon roll hero, interclass romance, blacksmith hero, lady of the castle
Subgenre: historic romance - medieval
CW/ TW: discussion of witnessing a rape
Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews