The Earl

Order of the Broken Blade #4

by Cecelia Mecca

Conrad Saint-Clair, earl of Licheford, may have started a rebellion against the king, but he is powerless against the woman he loved and lost.
 
The Order of the Broken Blade finally has the support it needs to succeed, to curb King John’s outrageous behavior, or so Conrad hopes. They have waited all winter for the king to respond to their demands. With their rebellion on the cusp of success—or utter failure—the last thing on Conrad’s mind is romance. Which is why he is completely blindsided when the only woman he’s ever loved, his friend’s sister, shows up on his doorstep.
 
Years ago, Cait Kennaugh was brutally attacked by a king’s man at the Tournament of the North. Her brother Terric and three other young men banded together to save her. Conrad, then a handsome earl’s son, wielded the sword that killed her attacker. A bond formed between the boys that day, one that culminated in their rebellious order, but it wasn’t the only connection forged by the traumatic experience. Cait and Conrad began corresponding, unbeknownst to her brother, opening their hearts to each other in their letters—until Cait stopped writing.
 
Fear drove Cait from the man she loves, and she’s desperate to reclaim him. But will the earl risk opening his heart to her again, while his rebellion hangs in the balance?
........

Get a new release notice for the highly anticipated conclusion at by subscribing as a CM Insider at CeceliaMecca.com/Insider.

Genres: Medieval, Historical, Romance, Historical Romance, Second Chance

212 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 4, 2020

About the author

Your 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.

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Reviews

[AnnMarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Earl is the fourth and final book in the Order of the Broken Blade series by Cecelia Mecca. It can be read as a standalone book, but I think it is much easier to follow and appreciate if you read the other books first.

In this book, we find the Order ready to take on King John of England in London to make him see reason about the unlawful taxes and his outrageous behaviour etc that he inflicts on his people. Along with the suspense of the probable battle, we also see Connor, the founding member of the Order risk his heart over Cait Kennaugh. Cait is the sister of Terric, best friend and another member of the Order. She was nearly raped many years ago and it was Connor who ultimately rescued her. He had met her beforehand, and there was an attraction between them, but after what nearly happened to her it was no surprise that she soon returned home and she eventually lost contact with him.

They had corresponded for a time, long enough for Connor to fall in love with her, but when she stopped writing he knew that she could never be his. The circumstances of the Orders' fight with the King brings Connor and Cait in each others' presence again. Can Connor convince her that they should be together, does he even want to risk his heart again after she broke it before? If they do have a chance of a future together will it only be cut short if the Order ends up in a battle in London?

I have loved this series and this book proved to be the perfect ending for it. The relationship between Connor and Cait was believable, sometimes angst-ridden, other times jovial, and at the best of times, passionate to the extreme. They make a perfect couple and I couldn't help but worry about their fate. Couple the romance with the suspense of trying to get King John under control and it made for a book that I couldn't read quickly enough. Now that I have all the books in the series I fully intend to read them all again soon, one after the other, making it similar to one epic saga. I know book reviews are meant to highlight the good and the bad in books, but I am sorry, I just can't find fault in this. I am very happy to recommend it.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Earl 
Order of the Broken B;ade #4
Cecelia Mecca
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Once a very long time ago Conrad Saint-Clair, Earl of Licheford knew the pain of love and loss all too well.

The order of the broken blade finally has the support it needs and they have worked hard to get that support and it wasn’t always easy. The support is exactly what they need to curb King John’s outrageous behavior and the crazy taxes he expects everyone to pay. He doesn’t seem to care if his subjects go hungry or even die for that matter. They have waited all winter for the King to respond to the orders demands. Now the rebellion is on the verge of success or maybe utter failure and the last thing on Conrads mind is romance never mind being in love. Bit now he is utterly blindsided when the only woman he has ever loved which is also his friends sister shows up at his doorstep.

Cait Kennaugh had a very traumatic experience. Years ago she was brutally attacked by a kings man at the tournament of the North. Her brother Terric and three other young men all banded together to save Cait. At the time Conrad was an Earl’s son and was the one who dealt the death blow to the scum who dared attack a woman.

A bond formed right away between the four boys that day, a bond so strong that not even death could take it away. This bond is what culminated their rebellious order, but it was not the only bond that was formed that day from the traumatic experience that they all suffered. Cait and Conrad began to write back and forth with no one the wiser, opening their hearts to each other in the letters until one day Cait stopped writing all together. This devastated Conrad and for the longest time he kept writing Cait, bit never got a response so he gave up.

Fear of the unknown drove Cait away from the man she loved, and now she’s desperate to reclaim him and that long lost love. The question is will Conrad be able to get by all of the hurt and risk opening his heart to her again, while his rebellion hangs in the balance?

Wow just wow. I think I am at a loss for words. This was the epic conclusion to the order of the broken blade series and I am truly sad to see it end. Everytime I think that Cecelia Mecca can’t do better she blows me away with a book that literally knocked my socks off. Ms. Mecca has a way with words that makes her one of my favorite all time authors. When she weaves a story it’s not just a story because the pages actually come to life. It was so nice to see Cait and Conrad get there happily ever after because they have been through something that a lot of people would not be able to deal with and it makes it all the more real. Cait and Conrad were begging for their own story and it was well worth the wait. Ms. Mecca if I could give you a hundred stars for this book I would, but since I can’t I will give you the 5 stars and bide my time until you rock my world with your next book.

[Greta · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored the conclusion to the Broken Blade series!

I was anxiously awaiting this book and it did not disappoint. The 4th book is about Cait and Conrad’s relationship and the final events that occur between the Order of the Broken Blade and King John.

When Cait Kennaugh shows up at Licheford Castle, Conrad, the Earl of Licheford, is surprised by her appearance. The sparks fly between them and don’t stop. Even though they are only looking at each other from a distance everyone notices. Both of their hearts are broken but if they can just have a decent conversation all could possibly be as it once was or even better. But there is a lot going on and it is hard for them to get resolution before the men need to leave for London to force King John to respond to their uprising.

I tried to savor this book as much as I could knowing it was the last in the series. My heart ached for both Cait and Conrad. It was hard to see the guilt that Cait carried with her after the event that brought the 4 men together and how that kept her and Conrad apart. It was so exciting to see all 4 men and all 4 women get their HEAs and what Lance does at the end just ties the story up in a perfect bow. It was a powerful and fitting resolution. I also love how history was brought into the story. I read all the historical points made at the end of the book and I have not read what comes after the “book” to the end in a very long time. I was given an ARC of this book and chose to post my review.

[Lail · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Earl: A Second Chance Medieval Romance (Order of the Broken Blade Book 4) by Cecelia Mecca 5 Stars isn’t justice for this fantastic heartwarming story! The story is set in 1215 in the Scottish and English Borderlands.
Conrad has loved only one woman, and lost her. He will never marry or love anyone else. Cait stopped writing Conrad even though they both confessed their undying love for each other. But, she’s not going to hide or be afraid anymore. She desperately wants a second chance, even if he won’t forgive her, she has to try before he leaves for war and the reckoning with the corrupt King himself. I enjoyed watching Conrad and Cait’s emotional ride through their heartbreak and angst to a simmering passion held in check only by a thread of Conrad’s control and honor. But, that doesn’t deter the saucy Cait from trying Conrad’s resolve from doing the right thing, and to keep his best friend, her brother, from killing him if he didn’t.
The storyline is engaging, expertly written and executed bringing the story and it’s memorable characters to life. Fast paced with action, danger, twist and turns, and a hot romance that is worth the wait! I can’t say enough good about this book and the other books in this series. They are on my best reads list. This is the fourth and technically the last book in the series, although, I’m hoping for another option.
Happy Reading♥️
Adult Content: Steamy explicit open bedroom scenes (4-5 flames).

[Reva Parks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Conrad Saint-Clair, Earl of Licheford, is shocked when Lady Cait rides through his gate with her brother. He has not seen her but the one time she came with her family to the Tournament of the North and was saved by four young teenagers from a rape attempt by a king's man. Conrad's broken blade was the instrument that he used to kill the man. The four became close friends and now have formed The Order of the Broken Blade to lead the rebellion against evil King John. Along with 20 other barons they have presented their demands and now wait Spring to force the King to deal with them. Now when he has this rebellion to co-ordinate, 14 years after he last saw Kate and fell in love with her, she finally comes to him. This book tells how he manages to act honorably while leading a rebellion and romancing his woman. A great story leading to the signing of the Magna Carta in 1212.

[Lorrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of those series you hate to see end, but what an ending it was!!

The final book, the march on London we've all been waiting for....happens in this book. The birth of the Magna Carta and the brotherhood known as "The Order of the Broken Blade"....both epic and monumental in their own rights.

The story of Cait and Conrad. The hero that saved her from an awful fate along that river years prior where four young men forged a brotherhood to stand together. An Order so strong, it gained the followers of many barons and clerics along the way. A movement so powerful, it forced a king to take pause and listen.

This story shows you the steps leading up to the gathering of forces prepared to march into London to force the king's ear to listen to their pleas. To change the injustice that was happening and bring about a brighter future for all. Amidst all this, is a beautiful love story this author has woven into a piece of history. One that deserved a tapestry depicting their story on Conrad's solar wall.

It may have been Cait who Conrad saved on that day, but in turn it would be her that saves his. A connection between two people too strong to ignore, too powerful to set aside, too spellbinding to forget.

FAVORITE LINES: She'd come back into his life with all the force of an explosion, her sole purpose to drive him mad, apparently. The way she was looking at him now, as if he were a particularly fine morsel on her plate...

My favorite part of the book was at the end when Lance called a meeting of the Order. What he did was unexpected, but so meaningful, it brought the whole series full circle for me. It was an ending to their cause....but a new beginning for the Order. A group that would stand strong together to the end of time. Outstanding series, it comes with my highest recommendation. I was gifted with an ARC and proudly post a review for such a colossal read.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

After the nerve-racking winter-long wait it seems the Order of the Broken Blade finally has the support it needs to curb the power of the tyrannical King John. Conrad St. Clair, the Earl of Licheford, must keep his focus on their rebellion, but that becomes much more difficult when the only woman he's ever loved, and the sister of his best friend, arrives unexpectedly at his castle.

Lady Cait Kennaugh was attacked by one of the king's men at a tournament years ago and saved by her brother and his three friends, but it was Conrad who ultimately dealt the killing blow to her attacker. Cait and Conrad began a secret correspondence shortly thereafter and forged a strong bond through their letters, until Cait's guilt got the better of her and she stopped writing, believing herself unworthy of Conrad.

Now Cait hopes to overcome her fear and guilt and rekindle her connection with Conrad, but he may not be willing to risk his heart again, especially with his rebellion on the line.

First off, I loved this book and I'd give it 10 stars if I could.

A past has been briefly teased between Cait and Conrad earlier in the series and I was so hoping they'd wind up together, but I didn't expect them to have grown so close. Cait had old scars she was still dealing with and feelings of guilt that kept her pushing Conrad away, believing herself a bit unworthy. Conrad was still coming to terms with filling his parents' shoes and very vulnerable, afraid to put his heart on the line and have it broken again. I loved that Cait realized the power she had, found her strength, and went after the man she knew she belonged with. For his part, Conrad didn't try to deny that they belonged together, even if he did make Cait sweat a bit. He was so sweet and vulnerable, while also being such an honorable man's man. He was perfect hero material and these two made an excellent couple. I loved not only Cait and Conrad's chemistry together, but also seeing the bond between all the members of the Order and their wives.

This has been one of my favorite series and I'm sad to see it end, but what a perfect ending it was and such an interesting part of history to dive into. This book and its characters were fantastic and it's just in time to be one of my favorite reads of 2019.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Order of the Broken Blade finally has the support it needs to succeed, to curb King John’s outrageous behaviour, or so Conrad Saint-Clair, Earl of Licheford hopes. They have waited all winter for the king to respond to their demands. With their rebellion on the cusp of success or utter failure the last thing on Conrad’s mind is romance. Years ago, Cait Kennaugh was brutally attacked by a king’s man at the Tournament of the North. Her brother Terric and three other young men banded together to save her. Conrad, then a handsome earl’s son, wielded the broken sword that killed her attacker. A bond formed between the boys that day, one that culminated in their rebellious order. Cait and Conrad began corresponding, unbeknownst to Terric, opening their hearts to each other in their letters—until Cait stopped writing.
This is the fourth & finale of the series & what a series it’s been. It could be read on its own but seriously read the previous three books to fully appreciate it. Conrad & Cait had been attracted to each other years ago & after the attack had poured their hearts out in their letters until Cait’s guilt made her stop writing. I’ve loved Conrad throughout the series & absolutely adored how his softer side was shown. Cait had also grown in confidence over the years, together they were a formidable force. The pace of the book was good I found it started slowly but the pace & tension increased until there was the final signing of the Magna Carta. A lovely mix of fact of fiction had me totally engrossed.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Margaret Watkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

One forgets when sitting in a history class, that real men and women were responsible for all the changes that have taken place in society throughout the ages, whether it be opposing an ignoble King, the abolition of slavery, or allowing women to vote. This well-written novel brings to the fore the effort it took and the sacrifices made to win the necessary support to bring about change in the lead-up to the signing of the Magna Carta. The plot encompasses both adventure and romance but also brings enlightenment and understanding of an era that is buried in the mists of time. An attack on Cait Kennaugh resulted in the four young men who came to her defense making a binding oath that followed them through to adulthood. Conrad, Earl of Licheford fell in love that day and has never been able to forget Cait, just she has never been able to forget Conrad or get over the fact that she was partially responsible for the events that took place. Cait finally shores up the courage to go south with her brother, determined to face Conrad and tell him how she feels. Once they come face to face, it becomes evident to all that Conrad and Cait have a history and explanations are necessary. I have enjoyed all the characters in this series, and The Earl brings a wonderful conclusion to the saga, I received a copy of this book as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[CAB1217 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the last book of "Order of Broken Arrow" series and a book you do not want to miss. The author has done a great job with the story line and the characters.

Conrad started the order in order to bring a corrupt King underhand. With his four "brothers" friends they each have a task to do in order to get the support they need in order to accomplish this. But along they way they each find the perfect someone to stand beside them for support and love. Conrad someone is Cait the sister of one of the Orders brothers and friend. He and three new friends one of which is Cait's brother come together to rescue Cait from an attack from a Kings man at a tournament she attended with her Father and Brothers. Since the Kings man was killed they all made a packed to keep what occured secret and forming a life long friendship between the four of them.

After Cait left the tournament with her family Conrad and Cait write to each other often sharing their deepest secrets and thoughts. However when Cait stopped writing Conrad’s heart was broken as he did not understand why. But he will soon find out why when she appears at his castle with her brother.

This is a great read and one of my favorites. I received this book for an honest review.

[Kat Tolle · Rating 5 out of 5]

OH how I just loved Conrad and Cait’s story!!! The Earl by Cecelia Mecca is book 4 in the Order of the Broken Blade series and what a series this has been. This medieval story is one of the best I have read. Cecelia has such an amazing writing talent and her stories are just so original that I can not say enough about them and The Earl does not disappoint. You fall in just love with her characters. Though in a series you can read The Earl as a standalone but I highly recommend you read the whole series to get the full story… you won’t be disappointed that you did. This is truly Cecelia Mecca at her best. This story has an attempted rape, a brotherhood, new friendships, protection, confused emotions, heartbreak, misunderstandings, a stand against a cruel king, a long time love affair, secrets, schemes and a second chance at love. You must read this book and series. It’s the best!!


***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.

[Annette Drewett · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful ending to this series. This author has interspersed history with fiction to create a realistic tale of the origin of the ‘Magna Carta’. Cait’s tale is told in this book, but it can never be a standalone, as her troubles began the ‘Order’. Our four couples are brought together in this story, each in their own way, helping Cait come to terms with her past. Conrad is a true leader and by the end of the book, he is even beginning to believe it himself. This has been a great series and I would highly recommend reading the books in order, to gain the best enjoyment out of them, and to enable a clearer understanding of all that these men are working towards.

[Kristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would like to thank the author for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

This is the last book in the series, and it ended it well. The four men and their new wives achieve their aim and loose their hearts in the process.

[Lori D]

Back to the beginning, with Cait and Conrad who originally drew the four men who formed the Order of the Blade together. Meeting at the Tournament of the North many years past, Cait, who was Terric's sister had been saved from being raped, by Conrad, Terric, Lance and Guy, although it was Conrad who had dealt the killing blow to her attacker. The four men had formed a bond not to be broken called the Order of the Broken Blade who were determined to dethrone King John or make him be fair to his subjects. Cait and Conrad had secretly written to each other and formed a strong attachment, until Cait had stopped writing due to feeling she was not good enough for him.
Now Cait insists on going with her brother for their meeting and to see Conrad again. Hopefully bring their connection back together because she never stopped loving him.
This is a powerful story and I loved every single word. Cecelia Mecca brings this time in history alive and although fiction, she makes it real, as she has done since her very first story that I read. As in the end of any of her series, I am sorry for these wonderful heros and heroines to go. But the very best part, is they will live on forever and I can revisit them anytime I would like! Ten stars***

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Earl by Cecelia Mecca is book 4 in the Order of the Broken Blade Series. This is the story of Cait Kennaugh and Conrad Saint Clair, Earl of Licheford. I have read (and Loved!) the previous books which added to my enjoyment and understanding of this one. But with that said, I did feel you could make this a standalone book if you wish to do so. Some years ago Cait was being attacked which lead Conrad to step in to save her. This lead him to her brothers where they started an Order of the Broken Blade to rebel against King John. Cait and Conrad started corresponding which lead to their feelings to grow so much more than their attractions. Cait was traumatized by her attack which ended up causing her to end her writing to Conrad. Conrad now is Cait's brother Terric's best friend and part of the Order of the Broken Blade which they are nearing to finishing. Cait and Conrad meet again with both wonder about the other feelings. There is a lot going on with the rebellion and them working out their feelings.
This has been such a great series! I of course am in love with Ms. Mecca's writing....she is one of my go to authors!

[Carole Burant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a finish to the Order of the Broken Blade series! The time has finally come for the order to put all their plans into action and start the rebellion against King John if he doesn't meet their demands. I had heard of the Magna Carta but didn't really know the story behind it so it was very interesting to learn how it came about.

This 4th and final book in the series is Conrad and Cait's story. They have loved each other since that fateful day when Conrad killed the man who was attacking her and the Order of the Broken Blade was born. Distance and fear have kept them apart but finally, Cait is ready to face Conrad and fight for his love. Romance and adventure is a big part of this story and add to that, the planning of a rebellion, and you've got a story that will keep you glued to the pages from start to finish.

I will miss reading about Conrad, Guy, Lance and Terric but this author has certainly given us a series worth reading all over again. I was given an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Cyndi · Rating 5 out of 5]

As always , Cecelia Mecca delivers!
This book, the final in the THE ORDED OF THE BROKEN BLADE ,brings our final man into focus. Conrad and his lady love , Terric's sister , Cait have their story told . The how , why and when explained.
So much explained, the history woven into ( and yes , im huge history buff) the time this group of men and women would have lived are exceptional.
Well done Cecilia! As always ,I'm in awe of your writing ability. To mold a cast of characters , each so diverse and compelling that as a reader, i find myself eagerly awaiting anything you put out for us to enjoy.
I was given an arc of this book and it was my pleasure to read and give my review freely and unbiased.

[Mhollie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Much better

I really connected with Conrad. Cait too, but not to the same extent. I wish this would have been written more richly detailed for the fictional characters as well as the actual history of the rebellion that led to the signing of the Magna Carta. This series of books could have been sweeping dramas of love and war, pain and triumph if only given more time and attention. Instead the histories and characters’ stories were glazed over in a mere 200 pages. This work was an opportunity lost. Maybe I am a spoiled reader and expect more from authors than I really should but I don’t believe so.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have mixed emotions. The Earl marks the end of the Order of the Broken Blade and that makes me sad. But I think this was my favorite of the 4 book series - of course I have probably said that after finishing each book! I especially liked that the second chance comes from a different place than I'm used to. That was entertaining. Cecelia Mecca really does her research and you can tell in her writing. I feel like I'm getting an education along with my entertainment. She includes a special chapter at the end that I particularly found enlightening and just goes to show the extent of her research. In sort, I loved it and I'm sure you will too.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed Cait and Conrad's story! Cait, so adventerous; I loved it! Conrad, such a gentleman; well, maybe! What of Cait's brother Terric….will Conrad remain his friend? Ms. Mecca continually warms my heart with her historical romances. This is a novel you can grab and read through in a couple/few hours. That's good too, as you will not want to put this down!
I received an advanced reader copy, and this my honest and voluntary review.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thrilling and exciting end to the Order of the Blade series. It seems the absolute best was saved for last. I loved Conrad and Cait's story! They loved each for so long and both were afraid of the implications of that love. However, they preserved. It wasn't lost on me regarding the significance of the Magna Carta (The Great Charter) and its effect on history. I love romance books with historical facts entwined in them. And this author never fails to disappoint with providing both. I was sad to see the series end. I voluntarily read this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Amy Burkhart · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the wonderful conclusion to the Broken Blade series. Cait finally brings herself to be able to go to Conrad and admit her feelings and after she forces her presence on him as he is marching to take London he admits he has never stopped loving her. This book was gifted to me and I was so excited to leave this review!! I can’t recommend this series enough!!!

[Jeanne Okerlund · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible conclusion!

All of the books in this series are filled with characters that are very lovable! That is one of the reasons it makes it bitter sweet to say goodbye with this final book. The power of the connection between the men and what they stand for is inspiring. Their conviction evident throughout the series. The romance that develops between Cait and Conrad is breathtaking. Their longing for each other began from a very young age. To feel like you have lost someone who was never really yours. Another triumphant series!

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

the best!!

A great ending to a fantastic series. I thoroughly enjoyed reading historical piece as well as the dramatic, romantic story between the two characters

[Monika · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I'm alone and scared" is a quote from the book. Who says it? You'll have to read Conrad's and Cait's story to find out. This time it's impatient and bullheaded Cait and (sometimes) raging Conrad we read about. The pace of the story is just right and we learn a lot about the history and birth of the Magna Carta. It's suspenseful despite the fact that we know the ending of the conflict from history classes. And it was nice to 'see' all the other characters from the series again. A great ending to a great series!

[Shannon Janssen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the final installment in the series The Order of the Broken Blade. Each of these books is a great story and every time the next is even better than the previous. Even knowing this is only a 4 book series, I didn’t want it to end. The loyalty, bravery, brotherhood and love these characters share is the constant throughout the series. All of the books are well written, engaging stories that will keep you turning the pages. If this is your first look at the series, do yourself a favor and start with the Blacksmith and work your way to this final book.

[Brenda Moser · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fourth and final book in the Order of the Broken Blade series. The author once again brings strong,well developed characters and takes them on an action packed journey. She does a great job developing the story and moving it at a steady pace, bringing it to life with her detailed scenes. The relationship between Cait and Conrad is strong and I enjoyed reading their story. I loved this book / series and highly recommend reading.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.

[Jas · Rating 3 out of 5]

The romance between Conrad and Cait was heartbreaking but also sweet. The relationship between the original members is also so sweet. Overall the political plot feels a bit rushed across the series but that might just be because I didn’t register exactly how much time was going by between each book.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been anxiously awaiting the 4th book in the great Order of the Broken Blade series to hear Cait and Conrad's story. The events that started the 4 warriors on the path of rebellion against the king of England occurred at a tournament where Cait was attacked by one of the King's advisers and Conrad had to kill the man to save her. Cait became a recluse in her brother's castle in Scotland but the previous books hinted at an attraction between Cait and Conrad simmering under the surface for 14 years. Now, at the worst time when the rebellion against King John is reaching a critical decision-point, Cait shows up at Conrad's castle. Both their lives are thrown into tumult and the sexual tension between them heats up. Conrad is preparing to lead the Barons and the member of the Order into London to demand that the King meet with them. As history will tell you, eventually they coerced the King into signing the Magna Carta that is the foundation for the laws and constitution of many countries. The Earl does a wonderful job of weaving the historic facts through a powerful, exciting and steamy romance. I was very sad to see the end of the series but it came to a very good and emotional ending for all the diverse characters.

[Ana Cordoba]

I have mixed reactions. I felt it was appropriate that the happily ever after for England as a whole was represented by Cait and Conrad’s journey of grief, regret, and forgiveness. The two players that started it all really had their share of hard times. They deserved to have their stories told.

Cait and Conrad’s understanding of each other’s differences and similarities as a result of their maturity was a ride worth witnessing. They both had to accept that the characteristics that frustrated them about the other were a central part of what allowed them to blossom into the people they are now as grown adults.

That being said, I expected to experience more sparks between Cait and Conrad given their history and the circumstances surrounding it. While there was teasing from both parties, it lacked that extra heat that I thought would be there. I’m not saying the writing was bad. It just felt like the writer was holding back. Cait and Conrad’s story had the potential to be something intense and powerful. Instead, it was restricted to the status quo of an ordinary star crossed lover’s trope. Just without the feuding families. Again, that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Cait and Conrad were both well-rounded and intriguing characters to learn about. I just felt that that writing style didn’t really do Cait and Conrad’s road to true recovery justice.

Despite these issues, I enjoyed the overall interaction each couple of the series went through to get where they are now. It was really engrossing to watch as they fought on and off the battlefield to learn who they truly were as people; looking forward to the next project.