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Lovers and Legends #8
Her Dark Knight's Redemption
“This man was shadow and night.
He was Darkness.”
Homeless Aliette is saved from punishment for stealing by a mysterious knight. To stay alive, she’s informed by this stranger that she must claim his child as her own. She should fear the dark knight’s power, yet it’s clear there’s more good to this man than he’s prepared to show. Can she break down the barriers of the tortured knight she calls Darkness?
He was Darkness.”
Homeless Aliette is saved from punishment for stealing by a mysterious knight. To stay alive, she’s informed by this stranger that she must claim his child as her own. She should fear the dark knight’s power, yet it’s clear there’s more good to this man than he’s prepared to show. Can she break down the barriers of the tortured knight she calls Darkness?
288 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2020
11 people are currently reading
71 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Locke
64 books237 followersNicole first discovered romance novels hidden in her grandmother’s closet. Convinced hidden books must be better, Nicole greedily read them. It was only natural she should start writing them (but now not so secretly). If she isn’t working on the next book in her historical series, she can’t be found. No, seriously. Because she’s always working on the next story!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
January 1, 2020
4.5 stars rounded up
Sir Reynold Warstone is rich, powerful, calculating and deadly. He has been playing a game with his enemies for years, a game he plans to win, he has no time or room in his life for relationships, books are his only friends and his plan to annihilate his enemies his only dream. Currently, he is in Paris, awaiting information before making his next move, when a servant demands an audience. Reynold is surprised by the gall of the woman, but hears her out – she has a child with her, a child named Grace who she claims is Reynold’s and she says she can prove it. Reynold doesn’t believe her until she takes him to see the mother – a woman he did in fact sleep with when he was last in Paris – almost two years ago. Reynold takes the child, her mother is dead and the servant dispatched, but he doesn’t know what to do – a child is a liability in the game, but he can’t seem to let her go. He takes her back to his home and sees a woman being taken by the guard in the market – she has hair the color of Grace’s and a plan is hatched – he will have his men save the woman from the guard, employ her in his home and have her claim Grace is her child.
Aliette is a homeless woman on the streets, but she is not alone, since being abandoned by her family 15 years ago, she has learned to survive and had created a new family, a family she provides for and protects. When she learns that Gabriel, a young orphan she has taken under her wing has stolen bread, she knows this will mean trouble. She tells Gabriel as well as an elderly couple she has taken in – Helewise and Vernon – that she will return the bread and try to work for the baker to pay for the damage. When she tries to return the bread the baker calls for the guard and brands her a thief – but when Reynold’s men claim her, the baker changes his claims and instead begins to toady to her. Aliette doesn’t understand what is going on, the men don’t talk to her and refuse to let her go. When she is brought before Reynold, she demands to be released, he makes it clear, she is his captive and she will care for the child. Unable to leave, Aliette worries for her family, but refuses to tell Reynold anything about herself or them.
When Reynold glimpses her getting out the bath, he knows he is in trouble, he doesn’t even know her name, but he knows he will not be letting her go – ever. Aliette is attracted to him as well, but neither trusts the other – they haven’t even exchanged names - she calls him Sir and Darkness and he calls her Thief. She doesn’t give him any information, but cares for Grace and slowly begins to trust Reynold – not completely, but more than she has anyone in a very long time. He in turn seems to run hot and cold with her, teaching her to read and admiring her, but pushing her away whenever she starts to get too close. Finally, he lets her venture outside the walls of his compound with a guard, a man named Louve who has been with him the longest and who acts as if he is Reynold’s friend. Louve knows she is hiding something and when he learns of her “family” he lets her go to them. She promises to return and they fall into a routine, until one day when Reynold follows and learns her secret. He takes in her whole family and makes it clear that she is not leaving him. But trust is a problem between these two and secrets may do far worse than keep them apart and steal their HEA – they might kill them.
I have been waiting for Reynold’s story since his introduction in The Knight’s Scarred Maiden and he was well worth the wait!!! The chemistry between Reynold and Aliette is apparent from their first interaction, they are clearly meant to be, but they both have scars and have both been betrayed by those who should have loved them in the past, for Reynold the threat of death is daily and he has survived by keeping himself apart from everyone, but Aliette (and Grace) makes him want things he has only imagined, things he hasn’t allowed himself to dream of. I did get a little frustrated with both Reynold and Aliette at times, especially when it seemed like they began to trust but clearly didn’t and clung to their secrets instead of opening themselves up to each other. But in the end, they figure it out and have a very sweet declaration scene. The love scenes are sparse and warmish, but the sexual tension is strong from their first meeting and never dies. I love how this story wrapped up giving the reader closure for Reynold and Aliette, but a sneak peek of stories to come for the reader! I. CANNOT. WAIT!!!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me.*
Sir Reynold Warstone is rich, powerful, calculating and deadly. He has been playing a game with his enemies for years, a game he plans to win, he has no time or room in his life for relationships, books are his only friends and his plan to annihilate his enemies his only dream. Currently, he is in Paris, awaiting information before making his next move, when a servant demands an audience. Reynold is surprised by the gall of the woman, but hears her out – she has a child with her, a child named Grace who she claims is Reynold’s and she says she can prove it. Reynold doesn’t believe her until she takes him to see the mother – a woman he did in fact sleep with when he was last in Paris – almost two years ago. Reynold takes the child, her mother is dead and the servant dispatched, but he doesn’t know what to do – a child is a liability in the game, but he can’t seem to let her go. He takes her back to his home and sees a woman being taken by the guard in the market – she has hair the color of Grace’s and a plan is hatched – he will have his men save the woman from the guard, employ her in his home and have her claim Grace is her child.
Aliette is a homeless woman on the streets, but she is not alone, since being abandoned by her family 15 years ago, she has learned to survive and had created a new family, a family she provides for and protects. When she learns that Gabriel, a young orphan she has taken under her wing has stolen bread, she knows this will mean trouble. She tells Gabriel as well as an elderly couple she has taken in – Helewise and Vernon – that she will return the bread and try to work for the baker to pay for the damage. When she tries to return the bread the baker calls for the guard and brands her a thief – but when Reynold’s men claim her, the baker changes his claims and instead begins to toady to her. Aliette doesn’t understand what is going on, the men don’t talk to her and refuse to let her go. When she is brought before Reynold, she demands to be released, he makes it clear, she is his captive and she will care for the child. Unable to leave, Aliette worries for her family, but refuses to tell Reynold anything about herself or them.
When Reynold glimpses her getting out the bath, he knows he is in trouble, he doesn’t even know her name, but he knows he will not be letting her go – ever. Aliette is attracted to him as well, but neither trusts the other – they haven’t even exchanged names - she calls him Sir and Darkness and he calls her Thief. She doesn’t give him any information, but cares for Grace and slowly begins to trust Reynold – not completely, but more than she has anyone in a very long time. He in turn seems to run hot and cold with her, teaching her to read and admiring her, but pushing her away whenever she starts to get too close. Finally, he lets her venture outside the walls of his compound with a guard, a man named Louve who has been with him the longest and who acts as if he is Reynold’s friend. Louve knows she is hiding something and when he learns of her “family” he lets her go to them. She promises to return and they fall into a routine, until one day when Reynold follows and learns her secret. He takes in her whole family and makes it clear that she is not leaving him. But trust is a problem between these two and secrets may do far worse than keep them apart and steal their HEA – they might kill them.
I have been waiting for Reynold’s story since his introduction in The Knight’s Scarred Maiden and he was well worth the wait!!! The chemistry between Reynold and Aliette is apparent from their first interaction, they are clearly meant to be, but they both have scars and have both been betrayed by those who should have loved them in the past, for Reynold the threat of death is daily and he has survived by keeping himself apart from everyone, but Aliette (and Grace) makes him want things he has only imagined, things he hasn’t allowed himself to dream of. I did get a little frustrated with both Reynold and Aliette at times, especially when it seemed like they began to trust but clearly didn’t and clung to their secrets instead of opening themselves up to each other. But in the end, they figure it out and have a very sweet declaration scene. The love scenes are sparse and warmish, but the sexual tension is strong from their first meeting and never dies. I love how this story wrapped up giving the reader closure for Reynold and Aliette, but a sneak peek of stories to come for the reader! I. CANNOT. WAIT!!!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me.*
April 12, 2021
Her Dark Knight's Redemption
Lovers and Legends Series #8
Nicole Locke
https://www.facebook.com/NicoleLockeA...
Release date 01/01/2020
Publisher Harlequin Historical / Mills&Boon Historical
Blurb :
“This man was shadow and night.
He was Darkness.”
Homeless Aliette is saved from punishment for stealing by a mysterious knight. To stay alive, she’s informed by this stranger that she must claim his child as her own. She should fear the dark knight’s power, yet it’s clear there’s more good to this man than he’s prepared to show. Can she break down the barriers of the tortured knight she calls Darkness?
My review :
Their Odyssey
When a thief meets her darkest fear, how could these two jaded souls find a way to another’s heart ...
This is my first read by Mrs Nicole Locke, and the 8th in her Lovers and Legends series, but never did I feel lost.
It is a love triangle tale, not the usual like a woman having to choose between two men or the reverse, it is a love story with a baby bringing and binding together two broken lost souls.
Mrs Nicole Locke has crafted an emotional and heartbreaking romance between two people so weary of others, they are unable to trust even when their deepest fears are tested.
Reynold has avoided by all means any entangled with any one, until he finds redemption in the eyes of a small underfed motherless child.
For her, he will do anything, because with the speed of a lightning strike, she has caught him unguarded and has robbed him of his heart.
Then by catching a glimpse of the true Aliette freed from her filthy and shapeless garnements, he was struck a second time.
She became his light to his darkness.
Aliette is afraid of the dark and fears loneliness, yes after years of abandonment, she in some ways recreated her family, even a better one, with some persons who might care a little bit for her. Until she is dragged from them and given the task to care for some helpless child. And with it, it opened the closed gate to her heart.
It is a tale about obsession when someone fills your every pores, and you can’t shake them out. It was that for Reynold and Aliette, a single glance and they were made prisoner by each other. Yet, their past experiences, all traumatic leave them wary of others and nearly unable to trust. Why their journey is one moment at a time, one step then two back when they must learn to see past appearances.
« Watch his deeds, then you’ll know the man.’ »
With this one book, I just fell in love with Mrs Locke astonishing talent with words and history.
If you want to be transported for few hours in a far away locations with heroes like the kind we do not make anymore, you are at the right place.
5 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the author, and purchased my own.
Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Lovers and Legends Series #8
Nicole Locke
https://www.facebook.com/NicoleLockeA...
Release date 01/01/2020
Publisher Harlequin Historical / Mills&Boon Historical
Blurb :
“This man was shadow and night.
He was Darkness.”
Homeless Aliette is saved from punishment for stealing by a mysterious knight. To stay alive, she’s informed by this stranger that she must claim his child as her own. She should fear the dark knight’s power, yet it’s clear there’s more good to this man than he’s prepared to show. Can she break down the barriers of the tortured knight she calls Darkness?
My review :
Their Odyssey
When a thief meets her darkest fear, how could these two jaded souls find a way to another’s heart ...
This is my first read by Mrs Nicole Locke, and the 8th in her Lovers and Legends series, but never did I feel lost.
It is a love triangle tale, not the usual like a woman having to choose between two men or the reverse, it is a love story with a baby bringing and binding together two broken lost souls.
Mrs Nicole Locke has crafted an emotional and heartbreaking romance between two people so weary of others, they are unable to trust even when their deepest fears are tested.
Reynold has avoided by all means any entangled with any one, until he finds redemption in the eyes of a small underfed motherless child.
For her, he will do anything, because with the speed of a lightning strike, she has caught him unguarded and has robbed him of his heart.
Then by catching a glimpse of the true Aliette freed from her filthy and shapeless garnements, he was struck a second time.
She became his light to his darkness.
Aliette is afraid of the dark and fears loneliness, yes after years of abandonment, she in some ways recreated her family, even a better one, with some persons who might care a little bit for her. Until she is dragged from them and given the task to care for some helpless child. And with it, it opened the closed gate to her heart.
It is a tale about obsession when someone fills your every pores, and you can’t shake them out. It was that for Reynold and Aliette, a single glance and they were made prisoner by each other. Yet, their past experiences, all traumatic leave them wary of others and nearly unable to trust. Why their journey is one moment at a time, one step then two back when they must learn to see past appearances.
« Watch his deeds, then you’ll know the man.’ »
With this one book, I just fell in love with Mrs Locke astonishing talent with words and history.
If you want to be transported for few hours in a far away locations with heroes like the kind we do not make anymore, you are at the right place.
5 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the author, and purchased my own.
Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
January 12, 2020
Oh, my! Oh, my! Oh, my! Nicole Locke, you have out completely outdone yourself!! You have well and truly cemented yourself as the best Medieval Romance Author!! This is – well, I honestly don’t have the words to fully describe the wealth of emotion that is swimming through me at the moment. There are words that I could brandish about to describe just how extraordinarily good this book is; such as amazing, flawless, stunning, inspiring, beautiful, dark, delicious, deadly, gorgeous, sexy – Hmmm, I may have just described the delectable hero there! – but honestly, this is just too damn good, that my little brain can’t handle it. I am a wreck, I am a simmering cauldron of emotion!
I love how different this is from the other books in the series, it is far darker then what I have read before from Nicole, and the sexual chemistry between Aliette and Reynold is like sparks shooting from a blazing fire, it’s sizzlingly hot, there may not be a lot of bedroom action but the attraction between our couple is instant, the air crackles like thunder and lightening around them as they both are consumed with lust for the other. Every scene is full of heated glances and a tingling tension that even the reader can feel running down their backs and then there is this beautiful sweetness between them, times where he is human his love of reading and teaching her to read made me not only swoon but fall in love with him that little bit more.
Reynold – those who have been following this series may remember him from ‘The Knights Scarred Maiden’ and if you’re like me then you would have been avidly awaiting his story and oh my!! I cannot begin to express how much I adore this dangerously dark and deadly man, you know me I do love a bad boy especially one who not only needs to learn to love and trust but needs love to unfreeze his frozen heart…Sigh! Honestly, this lone wolf is a menace, how am I ever to look at another hero again? I am ruined, who wants a clean-shaven goody-two-shoes when there is a dark knight with a nice backside lurking in the shadows?
Hmmm, it seems my waffling and lurid thoughts have well and truly taken over this review, I have just realised that I haven’t actually said anything about the book…stop perving on Reynold and get on with the review!!!
Reynold is wealthy, powerful, manipulative, dangerous with a hunger for vengeance and blood, in some way another he has been playing deadly games with his enemies for as long as he can remember, a game that continues and one that he is determined to win whatever the costs – that is until a little surprise lands in his lap, in the form of a scrawny little girl by the name of Grace who the strange women who arrive with her claims is his, being the super cynical and menacing creature that he is, he has to stop himself from killing the old woman on the spot as he doesn’t trust or believe a word she says. But he soon learns the truth, and little Grace finds herself in the care of her broodingly handsome predator of a father. In the care of a man who has a hardened fragile heart and too many secrets and shadows.
Now he has Grace in his care, what is he going to do with her? His lifestyle of devilment and games isn’t the place for a baby, plus he knows that the moment anyone of his enemies finds out about her, she will be in huge danger – something that our cunning plotter will not hear of – especially if his family learn how quickly she has become his Achilles heel.
Oh, I have to mention that scene when Aliette meets him and he is holding Grace close to his well-formed chest…sigh that could melt any heart!
Our heroine Aliette is currently homeless, she is a really good young woman, she is resilient and a survivor. She has taken under her wing an elderly couple who have found themselves in difficulty and a young thief; Gabriel, the four of them have become a little family. Being abandoned by her birth family many years ago, Aliette knows more than most the importance of sticking together to survive. It is because of young Gabriel that puts Aliette into the sphere of our brutally gorgeous mastermind, she is taken from the street and thrust into the calculating gaze of Reynold. She is the answer to his problem of what to do with Grace, and he will damn well make sure that Aliette complies with his scheme.
Aliette can’t trust the seething cauldron of danger that is standing looking at her as though she were a piece of meat, she is unnerved by him and incredibly attune to her primal womanly feelings for him, she is instantly attracted to him but not enough to tell him who she is or anything about herself of her life, and especially not about her little family who depends on her. No matter how much she demands he release her he refuses instead offers her a pretty odd position in his household.
I won’t say too much, but throughout the book, we are kept on this constant dizzying will they open up to each other or won’t they, it is mesmerising and ….well too damn good!
As it says in the authors note, this is a turning in direction to the Lovers and Legends series, and I am really loving where this is going, and cannot wait for more especially mesmerizing mercenary Knight; Louvre, now he is a man that I really can’t wait to get to know – you know me I have a one-track mind and you all know that I was drawn to the rougher and rugged heroes, which explains why I was so taken with Reynold. But Louve, I feel will be different, he has that ferocious and dangerous side, But I think there is something else simmering beneath the surface.
I love the really dark and brooding feel of this book, like the hero it has a really different feel to it then the other’s in the series, it is a lot edgier then Nicole’s other work and I utterly love the new direction her writing and this series is going in. Anyone who knows me knows that more Gothic feel romances are my Achilles heel I love the brooding and the dangerous feeling that you really can only get from a well written Gothic, historical romance and this is easily the finest I have read. From that first chapter when we meet the darkness himself you know you are going to be in for a real deadly threat. Every page is like walking along a spiders web to get to the finale, to your Knight but along the way you are unsure if at any moment you are going to either fall to your doom or be captured by the spider in search of her dinner.
This will probably sound a wee bit odd, but at times I was so wrapped up in the story that I forgot I was reading a romance. Usually, you know that the characters are going to have their happily ever after, and all will be well once they have got past their own issues, but here the question of whether or not they would actually allow the other in was constant, it kept me glued. I was completely taken in with them, I loved getting to know Aliette and Reynold as individuals and as a couple, they are fabulous!
I think you may be able to guess how much I loved this book, I could keep whittling on and on about how amazing, seductive, tantalizing this book is, but I really don’t want to sound like a broken record, I’ll just finish with – Read This Book!!!
January 1, 2020
4.5 stars rounded up
Sir Reynold Warstone is rich, powerful, calculating and deadly. He has been playing a game with his enemies for years, a game he plans to win, he has no time or room in his life for relationships, books are his only friends and his plan to annihilate his enemies his only dream. Currently, he is in Paris, awaiting information before making his next move, when a servant demands an audience. Reynold is surprised by the gall of the woman, but hears her out – she has a child with her, a child named Grace who she claims is Reynold’s and she says she can prove it. Reynold doesn’t believe her until she takes him to see the mother – a woman he did in fact sleep with when he was last in Paris – almost two years ago. Reynold takes the child, her mother is dead and the servant dispatched, but he doesn’t know what to do – a child is a liability in the game, but he can’t seem to let her go. He takes her back to his home and sees a woman being taken by the guard in the market – she has hair the color of Grace’s and a plan is hatched – he will have his men save the woman from the guard, employ her in his home and have her claim Grace is her child.
Aliette is a homeless woman on the streets, but she is not alone, since being abandoned by her family 15 years ago, she has learned to survive and had created a new family, a family she provides for and protects. When she learns that Gabriel, a young orphan she has taken under her wing has stolen bread, she knows this will mean trouble. She tells Gabriel as well as an elderly couple she has taken in – Helewise and Vernon – that she will return the bread and try to work for the baker to pay for the damage. When she tries to return the bread the baker calls for the guard and brands her a thief – but when Reynold’s men claim her, the baker changes his claims and instead begins to toady to her. Aliette doesn’t understand what is going on, the men don’t talk to her and refuse to let her go. When she is brought before Reynold, she demands to be released, he makes it clear, she is his captive and she will care for the child. Unable to leave, Aliette worries for her family, but refuses to tell Reynold anything about herself or them.
When Reynold glimpses her getting out the bath, he knows he is in trouble, he doesn’t even know her name, but he knows he will not be letting her go – ever. Aliette is attracted to him as well, but neither trusts the other – they haven’t even exchanged names - she calls him Sir and Darkness and he calls her Thief. She doesn’t give him any information, but cares for Grace and slowly begins to trust Reynold – not completely, but more than she has anyone in a very long time. He in turn seems to run hot and cold with her, teaching her to read and admiring her, but pushing her away whenever she starts to get too close. Finally, he lets her venture outside the walls of his compound with a guard, a man named Louve who has been with him the longest and who acts as if he is Reynold’s friend. Louve knows she is hiding something and when he learns of her “family” he lets her go to them. She promises to return and they fall into a routine, until one day when Reynold follows and learns her secret. He takes in her whole family and makes it clear that she is not leaving him. But trust is a problem between these two and secrets may do far worse than keep them apart and steal their HEA – they might kill them.
I have been waiting for Reynold’s story since his introduction in The Knight’s Scarred Maiden and he was well worth the wait!!! The chemistry between Reynold and Aliette is apparent from their first interaction, they are clearly meant to be, but they both have scars and have both been betrayed by those who should have loved them in the past, for Reynold the threat of death is daily and he has survived by keeping himself apart from everyone, but Aliette (and Grace) makes him want things he has only imagined, things he hasn’t allowed himself to dream of. I did get a little frustrated with both Reynold and Aliette at times, especially when it seemed like they began to trust but clearly didn’t and clung to their secrets instead of opening themselves up to each other. But in the end, they figure it out and have a very sweet declaration scene. The love scenes are sparse and warmish, but the sexual tension is strong from their first meeting and never dies. I love how this story wrapped up giving the reader closure for Reynold and Aliette, but a sneak peek of stories to come for the reader! I. CANNOT. WAIT!!!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me.*
Sir Reynold Warstone is rich, powerful, calculating and deadly. He has been playing a game with his enemies for years, a game he plans to win, he has no time or room in his life for relationships, books are his only friends and his plan to annihilate his enemies his only dream. Currently, he is in Paris, awaiting information before making his next move, when a servant demands an audience. Reynold is surprised by the gall of the woman, but hears her out – she has a child with her, a child named Grace who she claims is Reynold’s and she says she can prove it. Reynold doesn’t believe her until she takes him to see the mother – a woman he did in fact sleep with when he was last in Paris – almost two years ago. Reynold takes the child, her mother is dead and the servant dispatched, but he doesn’t know what to do – a child is a liability in the game, but he can’t seem to let her go. He takes her back to his home and sees a woman being taken by the guard in the market – she has hair the color of Grace’s and a plan is hatched – he will have his men save the woman from the guard, employ her in his home and have her claim Grace is her child.
Aliette is a homeless woman on the streets, but she is not alone, since being abandoned by her family 15 years ago, she has learned to survive and had created a new family, a family she provides for and protects. When she learns that Gabriel, a young orphan she has taken under her wing has stolen bread, she knows this will mean trouble. She tells Gabriel as well as an elderly couple she has taken in – Helewise and Vernon – that she will return the bread and try to work for the baker to pay for the damage. When she tries to return the bread the baker calls for the guard and brands her a thief – but when Reynold’s men claim her, the baker changes his claims and instead begins to toady to her. Aliette doesn’t understand what is going on, the men don’t talk to her and refuse to let her go. When she is brought before Reynold, she demands to be released, he makes it clear, she is his captive and she will care for the child. Unable to leave, Aliette worries for her family, but refuses to tell Reynold anything about herself or them.
When Reynold glimpses her getting out the bath, he knows he is in trouble, he doesn’t even know her name, but he knows he will not be letting her go – ever. Aliette is attracted to him as well, but neither trusts the other – they haven’t even exchanged names - she calls him Sir and Darkness and he calls her Thief. She doesn’t give him any information, but cares for Grace and slowly begins to trust Reynold – not completely, but more than she has anyone in a very long time. He in turn seems to run hot and cold with her, teaching her to read and admiring her, but pushing her away whenever she starts to get too close. Finally, he lets her venture outside the walls of his compound with a guard, a man named Louve who has been with him the longest and who acts as if he is Reynold’s friend. Louve knows she is hiding something and when he learns of her “family” he lets her go to them. She promises to return and they fall into a routine, until one day when Reynold follows and learns her secret. He takes in her whole family and makes it clear that she is not leaving him. But trust is a problem between these two and secrets may do far worse than keep them apart and steal their HEA – they might kill them.
I have been waiting for Reynold’s story since his introduction in The Knight’s Scarred Maiden and he was well worth the wait!!! The chemistry between Reynold and Aliette is apparent from their first interaction, they are clearly meant to be, but they both have scars and have both been betrayed by those who should have loved them in the past, for Reynold the threat of death is daily and he has survived by keeping himself apart from everyone, but Aliette (and Grace) makes him want things he has only imagined, things he hasn’t allowed himself to dream of. I did get a little frustrated with both Reynold and Aliette at times, especially when it seemed like they began to trust but clearly didn’t and clung to their secrets instead of opening themselves up to each other. But in the end, they figure it out and have a very sweet declaration scene. The love scenes are sparse and warmish, but the sexual tension is strong from their first meeting and never dies. I love how this story wrapped up giving the reader closure for Reynold and Aliette, but a sneak peek of stories to come for the reader! I. CANNOT. WAIT!!!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me.*
February 27, 2020
Thank you Rachel's Random Resources and the author for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Her Dark Knight's Redemption
By: Nicole Locke
*REVIEW*☆☆☆☆
Her Dark Knight's Redemption is the first book I've read from Nicole Locke, and I intend to read more. This story is a quick but compelling historical romance. Take one uber wealthy, paranoid, plotting guy named Reynold, plus a homeless woman with trust issues named Aliette, oh, and a one year old girl named Grace, mix them up, and you get a family waiting to happen. Don't tell the characters that, though, because they will vehemently disagree. Reynold and Aliette are in a position to help each other. During this time of mutual agreement, the chemistry between them is obvious, but they push it away. Both are coping with painful pasts, including abandonment issues, not trusting anyone and having no hope that something good might happen to either of them. The baby, Grace, is the glue that binds Reynold and Aliette together, and she may be the key that unlocks their future. The story is indeed about redemption and learning to love and trust again. It is well written with a perfect pace, and the characters are engaging, dynamic and complement each other nicely. I like the premise because it's a bit different. Overall, I enjoyed reading this story and highly recommend for historical romance readers.
Her Dark Knight's Redemption
By: Nicole Locke
*REVIEW*☆☆☆☆
Her Dark Knight's Redemption is the first book I've read from Nicole Locke, and I intend to read more. This story is a quick but compelling historical romance. Take one uber wealthy, paranoid, plotting guy named Reynold, plus a homeless woman with trust issues named Aliette, oh, and a one year old girl named Grace, mix them up, and you get a family waiting to happen. Don't tell the characters that, though, because they will vehemently disagree. Reynold and Aliette are in a position to help each other. During this time of mutual agreement, the chemistry between them is obvious, but they push it away. Both are coping with painful pasts, including abandonment issues, not trusting anyone and having no hope that something good might happen to either of them. The baby, Grace, is the glue that binds Reynold and Aliette together, and she may be the key that unlocks their future. The story is indeed about redemption and learning to love and trust again. It is well written with a perfect pace, and the characters are engaging, dynamic and complement each other nicely. I like the premise because it's a bit different. Overall, I enjoyed reading this story and highly recommend for historical romance readers.
February 27, 2020
It’s a tricky proposition to write a redemption arc, and made even trickier in this book when the story literally opens with Reynold, the hero, killing a servant woman in the first chapter. I actually thought for at least the first 50 pages that there was no way he could be the hero; that Aliette, the heroine, was going to rescue the child from him and make a run for it with the help of the REAL hero… who never arrived.
Reynold is the poster boy for torturous childhoods, but in every one of his interactions with Aliette I had a constant refrain of ‘cool motive… still murder’ running through my mind. I liked Aliette a lot; I especially liked that she was a low-born thief and absolutely no attempt was made to pretty that up, to improve her background to make her ‘suitable’ to marry someone as highborn as Reynold. Her found family and her determination to protect them was charming… and I wanted her to take them and baby Grace, take as much money as she could find, and get the hell away from Reynold.
I want to like this because the author obviously goes to a lot of effort when doing her historical research (which puts her way ahead of a lot of authors writing medieval romance). The problem is that the characters she’s writing about are basically living miserable, hardscrabble lives with no relief in sight. Now, the fact is that was reality for most people who weren’t extremely rich at the time. And those who were rich had more comfortable lives largely enabled by exploiting the poor, so it’s very hard to root for them unless you gloss over all that suffering. The fact that the author hasn’t glossed over the struggle means it’s just about impossible to like Reynold. Even though one of his employees claims Reynold is good to his people and gives to the poor, almost all his actions with Aliette (until he falls for her) are transactional, so we don’t get to see any actual evidence that he’s One of the Good Rich People.
This is beautifully well-written, historically accurate and has a wonderful heroine. The romance between the hero and heroine is believable and something of a Cinderella story… but my inability to like the hero means I cannot give it more than four stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via Rachel’s Random Resources.
Reynold is the poster boy for torturous childhoods, but in every one of his interactions with Aliette I had a constant refrain of ‘cool motive… still murder’ running through my mind. I liked Aliette a lot; I especially liked that she was a low-born thief and absolutely no attempt was made to pretty that up, to improve her background to make her ‘suitable’ to marry someone as highborn as Reynold. Her found family and her determination to protect them was charming… and I wanted her to take them and baby Grace, take as much money as she could find, and get the hell away from Reynold.
I want to like this because the author obviously goes to a lot of effort when doing her historical research (which puts her way ahead of a lot of authors writing medieval romance). The problem is that the characters she’s writing about are basically living miserable, hardscrabble lives with no relief in sight. Now, the fact is that was reality for most people who weren’t extremely rich at the time. And those who were rich had more comfortable lives largely enabled by exploiting the poor, so it’s very hard to root for them unless you gloss over all that suffering. The fact that the author hasn’t glossed over the struggle means it’s just about impossible to like Reynold. Even though one of his employees claims Reynold is good to his people and gives to the poor, almost all his actions with Aliette (until he falls for her) are transactional, so we don’t get to see any actual evidence that he’s One of the Good Rich People.
This is beautifully well-written, historically accurate and has a wonderful heroine. The romance between the hero and heroine is believable and something of a Cinderella story… but my inability to like the hero means I cannot give it more than four stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via Rachel’s Random Resources.
May 5, 2023
Pantera Nera - per RFS
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Sir Reynold Warstone è ricco, potente e letale. Da anni conduce un gioco con i suoi nemici, un gioco che intende vincere a ogni costo. Ma a Parigi, dove è in attesa di informazioni per fare la sua prossima mossa, scopre di essere padre di una bimba, un ostacolo che potrebbe intralciare il suo cammino, a cui, però, non può voltare le spalle. L’unica soluzione è trovare subito una madre per la piccola Grace.
“La Tenebra”, come più volte viene denominato il protagonista di questo romanzo, è un uomo ricco e potente. Il mistero lo circonda e sin dalle prime righe ci intriga con una serie di indizi che ci fanno supporre ci sia molto da scoprire durante la lettura. Reynold, questo il suo nome, è abituato a nascondere al mondo la sua vera identità e a nascondere tutte le sue emozioni dietro una maschera di letale freddezza.
Viene a sapere di essere diventato padre quando ormai la figlia ha quasi un anno di età e, rimasta orfana della madre, finisce nelle sue non proprio amorevoli mani.
Questa bimba è un problema per il nostro protagonista, è un fastidio che può diventare una debolezza nei confronti dei suoi nemici perché, nonostante ci provi, Reynold non riesce a rimanere insensibile davanti alla piccola e anzi se ne sente attratto in modo irrefrenabile.
Qui subentra Aliette.
La protagonista femminile del romanzo è una ragazza dal cuore tenero, cresciuta in strada che si è costruita una famiglia con i disperati che ha trovato sul proprio cammino.
È povera ed è una donna del popolo ma sarà scelta dalla Tenebra per accudire la propria figlia.
Impeccabile lo stile di scrittura che pagina dopo pagina racconterà gli avvenimenti con dovizia di particolari ben collocati nel contesto storico.
Un po’ meno coerenti alcune forzature nel carattere dei protagonisti e nella struttura della trama.
Sir Reynold da crudele e insensibile maestro degli intrighi si trasformerà in un mansueto e dolente nobile innamorato di una popolana, ma fa parte delle dinamiche dei romanzi rosa che ci fanno sospirare.
Il romanzo è l’ottavo di una serie e, anche se si colgono alcuni riferimenti a libri precedenti, non viene disturbata la lettura che può anche essere limitata a questa storia autoconclusiva.
Vengono inoltre presentati alcuni personaggi di contorno che potrebbero regalare una seguito interessante.
.
Sir Reynold Warstone è ricco, potente e letale. Da anni conduce un gioco con i suoi nemici, un gioco che intende vincere a ogni costo. Ma a Parigi, dove è in attesa di informazioni per fare la sua prossima mossa, scopre di essere padre di una bimba, un ostacolo che potrebbe intralciare il suo cammino, a cui, però, non può voltare le spalle. L’unica soluzione è trovare subito una madre per la piccola Grace.
“La Tenebra”, come più volte viene denominato il protagonista di questo romanzo, è un uomo ricco e potente. Il mistero lo circonda e sin dalle prime righe ci intriga con una serie di indizi che ci fanno supporre ci sia molto da scoprire durante la lettura. Reynold, questo il suo nome, è abituato a nascondere al mondo la sua vera identità e a nascondere tutte le sue emozioni dietro una maschera di letale freddezza.
Viene a sapere di essere diventato padre quando ormai la figlia ha quasi un anno di età e, rimasta orfana della madre, finisce nelle sue non proprio amorevoli mani.
Questa bimba è un problema per il nostro protagonista, è un fastidio che può diventare una debolezza nei confronti dei suoi nemici perché, nonostante ci provi, Reynold non riesce a rimanere insensibile davanti alla piccola e anzi se ne sente attratto in modo irrefrenabile.
Qui subentra Aliette.
La protagonista femminile del romanzo è una ragazza dal cuore tenero, cresciuta in strada che si è costruita una famiglia con i disperati che ha trovato sul proprio cammino.
È povera ed è una donna del popolo ma sarà scelta dalla Tenebra per accudire la propria figlia.
Impeccabile lo stile di scrittura che pagina dopo pagina racconterà gli avvenimenti con dovizia di particolari ben collocati nel contesto storico.
Un po’ meno coerenti alcune forzature nel carattere dei protagonisti e nella struttura della trama.
Sir Reynold da crudele e insensibile maestro degli intrighi si trasformerà in un mansueto e dolente nobile innamorato di una popolana, ma fa parte delle dinamiche dei romanzi rosa che ci fanno sospirare.
Il romanzo è l’ottavo di una serie e, anche se si colgono alcuni riferimenti a libri precedenti, non viene disturbata la lettura che può anche essere limitata a questa storia autoconclusiva.
Vengono inoltre presentati alcuni personaggi di contorno che potrebbero regalare una seguito interessante.
January 8, 2020
An all-around excellent medieval romance. I really like the interplay of the main characters. The hero, especially, went through a great deal of personal development, Aloof and somewhat cold in the beginning, he emerged as a loving guy by the end. Aliette was, of course, the catalyst for this change. There were strong messages of family (in whatever form it appears), friendship, and trust. There were a couple of great potential heroes for future books. It will be interesting to see what direction Nicole Locke takes next. I really enjoyed this one. Tears were shed.
ARC provided by the author.
ARC provided by the author.
January 2, 2020
Entrancing story of a dark knight and the woman who brings light to his world. Reynold Warstone has lead a life of secrets and pain. Aliette has also had pain in her life on the streets, but has a found family that she cares for deeply. Ms Locke has written an amazing tale of two people who recognize each others' walls that they have put up to safeguard themselves. Definitely deserving of 5+ stars.
December 12, 2019
"Her Dark Knight's Redemption" by Nicole Locke is a great, quick, Historical romance by Nicole Locke. It is a book in the series called 'Lovers and Legends.' Even though it is listed as a series it can also be a read alone. This is my first book in this series to read but it makes me want to go back and read the others. The dark hero saves Aliette but at what price to her?
November 29, 2020
Quelle joie de retourner dans l’univers de Lovers and Legend avec le personnage de Reynold que l’on a côtoyé brièvement dans le tome précédent et d’Alyette dans ce huitième opus.
J’avoue que j’ai eu un léger trou de mémoire sur Reynold en début d’ouvrage car ma lecture du tome précédent date un peu. L’aperçu que l’on a de ce personnage dans le tome 7 nous a fait penser à un homme froid, sans cœur et avide d’avoir l’ascendant sur les autres. Que nenni, au contact d’Alyette et de l’enfant, on s’aperçoit qu’en fait, c’est un homme avec un cœur chamallow gros comme ça et qui lutte pour garder son self-control afin d’arriver à atteindre son objectif. Se débarrasser de ses ennemis. C’est amusant de voir que notre héroïne le comparer au prince des Ténèbres au début de leur relation.
Quant à l’histoire, nous nous focalisons sur l’évolution de cette relation, les dangers qui entourent Reynold, l’enfant mais aussi les personnes que la jeune femme a prises sous son aile. J’admets que la partie où Reynold dit que sa bibliothèque est l’un de ses trésors a fait grimper en flèche son capital sympathie. J’ai apprécié également de connaître un peu plus son passé et celui d’Alyette.
La seule chose que je ne comprends pas c’est le changement dans la traduction des noms, Louve est devenu Jean-loup et Alyette a pris un y en français alors que c’est un i en version originale. J’avoue j’ai tiqué.
Pour conclure, ce tome a joué son rôle de lecture doudou à merveille. J’ai passé un très bon moment de lecture. Les personnages sont attachants et j’aime toujours l’intrigue. J’ai hâte de me plonger dans le neuvième tome qui paraîtra en Janvier de l’année prochaine.
https://la-bibliotheque-du-labyrinthe...
J’avoue que j’ai eu un léger trou de mémoire sur Reynold en début d’ouvrage car ma lecture du tome précédent date un peu. L’aperçu que l’on a de ce personnage dans le tome 7 nous a fait penser à un homme froid, sans cœur et avide d’avoir l’ascendant sur les autres. Que nenni, au contact d’Alyette et de l’enfant, on s’aperçoit qu’en fait, c’est un homme avec un cœur chamallow gros comme ça et qui lutte pour garder son self-control afin d’arriver à atteindre son objectif. Se débarrasser de ses ennemis. C’est amusant de voir que notre héroïne le comparer au prince des Ténèbres au début de leur relation.
Quant à l’histoire, nous nous focalisons sur l’évolution de cette relation, les dangers qui entourent Reynold, l’enfant mais aussi les personnes que la jeune femme a prises sous son aile. J’admets que la partie où Reynold dit que sa bibliothèque est l’un de ses trésors a fait grimper en flèche son capital sympathie. J’ai apprécié également de connaître un peu plus son passé et celui d’Alyette.
La seule chose que je ne comprends pas c’est le changement dans la traduction des noms, Louve est devenu Jean-loup et Alyette a pris un y en français alors que c’est un i en version originale. J’avoue j’ai tiqué.
Pour conclure, ce tome a joué son rôle de lecture doudou à merveille. J’ai passé un très bon moment de lecture. Les personnages sont attachants et j’aime toujours l’intrigue. J’ai hâte de me plonger dans le neuvième tome qui paraîtra en Janvier de l’année prochaine.
https://la-bibliotheque-du-labyrinthe...
February 29, 2020
Atmospheric and undoubtedly noir, this historical romance is absorbing. The opening chapter sets the scene so well, the darkness, danger and depravity of the time displayed through the historical details, vivid imagery and authentic characters. Reynold, views death without fear, he appears invincible, yet whilst he shows no mercy to those who would take from him, he is drawn to the child brought before him.
His first meeting with Aliette is born out of necessity, he uses her because of what he knows about her. She is streetwise but has retained her humanity and it is this that saves her. She is alternatively gripped by fascination and fear in his presence. She knows he’s dangerous, holds her life in his hands, but she is intuitive and sees something more.
The chemistry between Reynold and Aliette is simmering but resisted, she fears what he may do to her, he fears he may hurt her. This conflict is strong and threatens their chance of happiness.
He is the original player, and yet she threatens his plans, just by her presence. The strength of the characters makes this a page-turning story. The darkness of the time suits the knight’s personality perfectly.
A story of dark and light and the power of love against a rich tapestry of 13th century France.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
His first meeting with Aliette is born out of necessity, he uses her because of what he knows about her. She is streetwise but has retained her humanity and it is this that saves her. She is alternatively gripped by fascination and fear in his presence. She knows he’s dangerous, holds her life in his hands, but she is intuitive and sees something more.
The chemistry between Reynold and Aliette is simmering but resisted, she fears what he may do to her, he fears he may hurt her. This conflict is strong and threatens their chance of happiness.
He is the original player, and yet she threatens his plans, just by her presence. The strength of the characters makes this a page-turning story. The darkness of the time suits the knight’s personality perfectly.
A story of dark and light and the power of love against a rich tapestry of 13th century France.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
March 23, 2020
Nicole Locke is one of the authors that got me into Historical Romance. I really enjoyed Her Dark Knight’s Redemption. A quick, compelling, historical romance that kept me locked in from beginning to end.
The romance is really believable and fabulously written. The back and forth, the trust issues, the ups and downs, it all made for a really believable story.
I absolutely love Nicole Locke‘s writing. It’s beautiful and draws me in, every time I read a novel by her. I recommend Her Dark Knight’s Redemption to Historical Romance fans. This is definitely not one to miss!
Rating:
4/5☆
*I received a free copy of this book from Rachel’s Random Resources in exchange for an honest review on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
The romance is really believable and fabulously written. The back and forth, the trust issues, the ups and downs, it all made for a really believable story.
I absolutely love Nicole Locke‘s writing. It’s beautiful and draws me in, every time I read a novel by her. I recommend Her Dark Knight’s Redemption to Historical Romance fans. This is definitely not one to miss!
Rating:
4/5☆
*I received a free copy of this book from Rachel’s Random Resources in exchange for an honest review on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
February 10, 2023
out of all the books i have read in this series so far. this one was the best. while the hero is stubbone and won't open up to the heroine. i do enjoy they scenes together. i think they work well together.
i hope the next one is just as good.
i hope the next one is just as good.
April 11, 2020
3.5 quick and a nice read
May 4, 2020
Complex story line and characters make this an interesting read. She never disappoints.
October 18, 2020
Put it down so many times because I was coming across other books that really got my attention. This one was just OK
February 28, 2020
Her Dark Knight’s Redemption is the eighth book in author Nicole Locke’s “Lovers and Legends” series. Although eighth in the series, this book could easily stand alone. But I highly recommend checking out the entire series, it’s fantastic! I’m a big fan of Ms. Locke’s writing and have been patiently waiting for Reynold’s story. Oh my, I think I’ve found one of my all-time favorite heroes! I absolutely loved Reynold and his story was everything I hoped it would be!
Sir Reynold Warstone is a wealthy knight, highly skilled with a sword, a blade and the deadly games he plays. But what people don’t know about him is he craves what he reads in his books; a true family and a home. But his life is dangerous and there is no place for that in his life until he discovers he has a daughter…
Aliette is homeless living in the streets of Paris ever since her parents abandoned her at the age of five. But Aliette is not alone, she takes care of an elderly couple and a young boy named Gabriel, who depends on her and are her family now. When she tries to make amends for Gabriel’s stealing, she herself is caught, but instead of being taken to the gaol, she’s taken to Reynold…
Well, this book was so worth the wait! For those of us who have been following this series from the beginning, we’ve already met Reynold. He first appeared in book five of this series, The Knight’s Scarred Maiden. He intrigued me back then and I’ll admit I wanted to know more about him. He’s dark, mysterious, handsome and dangerous. He really is the most delicious hero, a powerful, brooding man with lots of secrets. As the secrets of Reynold’s past are revealed, my heart broke for him! I do believe he goes on the list of one of my all-time favorite heroes, I just loved him! As for Aliette, she’s not had an easy life. Abandoned by her family to the streets at age five, she’s had to learn to survive on her own, to not trust or depend on anyone. She was a kind and compassionate young woman who would defend anyone she felt needed it… As a couple they both struggled to trust, never knowing love before. Their chemistry was hot off the charts and I believed if they could both learn to trust, they would be perfect for each other. I liked how Aliette was able to get to Reynold, to see the man beneath, to know him like no other! A fabulous couple and a perfect story for them!
This was a beautifully written story of two people who truly deserved to find love. It’s the kind of story you finish and want to immediately pick up again and reread it! With wonderful secondary characters that I would love to get to know better in future books, this was a book I enjoyed from start to finish. Ms. Locke mentioned in her Author’s Note at the beginning of the book that this might be a turning point in this series, but that it’s not the end! I say bravo, Ms. Locke! I can’t wait for the next books in this series! 10 stars if I could!
Sir Reynold Warstone is a wealthy knight, highly skilled with a sword, a blade and the deadly games he plays. But what people don’t know about him is he craves what he reads in his books; a true family and a home. But his life is dangerous and there is no place for that in his life until he discovers he has a daughter…
Aliette is homeless living in the streets of Paris ever since her parents abandoned her at the age of five. But Aliette is not alone, she takes care of an elderly couple and a young boy named Gabriel, who depends on her and are her family now. When she tries to make amends for Gabriel’s stealing, she herself is caught, but instead of being taken to the gaol, she’s taken to Reynold…
Well, this book was so worth the wait! For those of us who have been following this series from the beginning, we’ve already met Reynold. He first appeared in book five of this series, The Knight’s Scarred Maiden. He intrigued me back then and I’ll admit I wanted to know more about him. He’s dark, mysterious, handsome and dangerous. He really is the most delicious hero, a powerful, brooding man with lots of secrets. As the secrets of Reynold’s past are revealed, my heart broke for him! I do believe he goes on the list of one of my all-time favorite heroes, I just loved him! As for Aliette, she’s not had an easy life. Abandoned by her family to the streets at age five, she’s had to learn to survive on her own, to not trust or depend on anyone. She was a kind and compassionate young woman who would defend anyone she felt needed it… As a couple they both struggled to trust, never knowing love before. Their chemistry was hot off the charts and I believed if they could both learn to trust, they would be perfect for each other. I liked how Aliette was able to get to Reynold, to see the man beneath, to know him like no other! A fabulous couple and a perfect story for them!
This was a beautifully written story of two people who truly deserved to find love. It’s the kind of story you finish and want to immediately pick up again and reread it! With wonderful secondary characters that I would love to get to know better in future books, this was a book I enjoyed from start to finish. Ms. Locke mentioned in her Author’s Note at the beginning of the book that this might be a turning point in this series, but that it’s not the end! I say bravo, Ms. Locke! I can’t wait for the next books in this series! 10 stars if I could!
February 26, 2020
The year is 1297. The location is Paris, France. A skilled and deadly knight named Warstone is hiding a child and has kidnapped a young woman and thief who is not afraid of the most feared and dangerous man in France.
He never allowed strangers to simply stare at him. Customarily, he hid in corridors or corners and waited to emerge. He liked watching. The waiting made the person he watched reveal more than they wanted to.
Reynold had a hellish childhood. His sadistic and powerful parents scarred him physically and emotionally to bend him to their will like his brothers, and he left home when he overheard his parents plotting to kill him. Now he manipulates, hides, and plays a game to find the legendary Jewel of Kings before his destructive family does. But he has made a mistake. The child...his child, Grace, is with him and he has kidnapped an unusual and moralistic thief to take care of her. This child and woman will be his undoing. He cannot care for anyone or they will be killed along with him. It is too late.
Aliette had been afraid of only one thing her entire life. Darkness. As a child, she knew shadows hid bad people. This man before her was shadow and night. He was Darkness.
As a child, Aliette was abandoned by her parents and left to fend for herself on the streets of Paris from the age of 5. Fifteen years later she has collected her own rag-tag family of thieves consisting of a young boy missing an ear and an old couple past their prime for stealing. When she risks her own life to save the boy by returning two stolen loaves of bread, she is kidnapped and taught to read by a mysterious and dangerous man who has chosen her to care for a child who is clearly his. Why does he hide in a dark and dreary house surrounded by armed mercenaries? Why are his books more precious than people? "She trusted her instincts, but she didn’t trust this man or anyone. Lies were too easily told."
I love Ms. Locke's eloquent and free-flowing writing style. The story is tragic and heartwarming. To see two souls who never knew love or trust come together to protect an innocent child is very romantic. Reynold's home life and family sound disturbing and so sad and the reader realizes that his arrogance and dark brooding is a foil for his kindness and giving nature which compliments Aliette's selfless and generous nature.
This is my first Nicole Locke book. It is charming and full of complex characters with an enjoyable and enigmatic plot. Though it is book 8 in the Legends and Lovers series it reads as a standalone. Recommend highly!
Thank you to Ms. Locke for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
He never allowed strangers to simply stare at him. Customarily, he hid in corridors or corners and waited to emerge. He liked watching. The waiting made the person he watched reveal more than they wanted to.
Reynold had a hellish childhood. His sadistic and powerful parents scarred him physically and emotionally to bend him to their will like his brothers, and he left home when he overheard his parents plotting to kill him. Now he manipulates, hides, and plays a game to find the legendary Jewel of Kings before his destructive family does. But he has made a mistake. The child...his child, Grace, is with him and he has kidnapped an unusual and moralistic thief to take care of her. This child and woman will be his undoing. He cannot care for anyone or they will be killed along with him. It is too late.
Aliette had been afraid of only one thing her entire life. Darkness. As a child, she knew shadows hid bad people. This man before her was shadow and night. He was Darkness.
As a child, Aliette was abandoned by her parents and left to fend for herself on the streets of Paris from the age of 5. Fifteen years later she has collected her own rag-tag family of thieves consisting of a young boy missing an ear and an old couple past their prime for stealing. When she risks her own life to save the boy by returning two stolen loaves of bread, she is kidnapped and taught to read by a mysterious and dangerous man who has chosen her to care for a child who is clearly his. Why does he hide in a dark and dreary house surrounded by armed mercenaries? Why are his books more precious than people? "She trusted her instincts, but she didn’t trust this man or anyone. Lies were too easily told."
I love Ms. Locke's eloquent and free-flowing writing style. The story is tragic and heartwarming. To see two souls who never knew love or trust come together to protect an innocent child is very romantic. Reynold's home life and family sound disturbing and so sad and the reader realizes that his arrogance and dark brooding is a foil for his kindness and giving nature which compliments Aliette's selfless and generous nature.
This is my first Nicole Locke book. It is charming and full of complex characters with an enjoyable and enigmatic plot. Though it is book 8 in the Legends and Lovers series it reads as a standalone. Recommend highly!
Thank you to Ms. Locke for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
April 1, 2020
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Aliette has a lot on her plate. Being a homeless thief is hard enough, however she also has three other people she has taken responsibility for. When Gabriel, the youngest of the three in Aliette's care, steals loaves of bread from a local baker Aliette fears he may of been seen and becomes scared for his life. She tries to rectify the situation by returning what she can and offering to pay for the rest. The baker is enraged and demands she pay for her crime. Aliette is then saved by these mysterious silent men. Finally they arrive at a residence where she finds out she was brought here because of a mysterious dark knight. What he wants is simple, she must claim his child as hers and she will be taken care of. Things about the knight seem less sinister than she had first expected and he may even be good under all his darkness. Now Aliette must see if she can break down his dark shell or is she doomed to be trapped with darkness.
What happens when a sexy, dark, broken knight meets a beautiful, strong willed, equally broken thief? You get a medieval sexy romance that teases and excites until it's finished and leaves you breathless. The chemistry between the dark knight and Aliette is comes on thick and fast. It is brilliantly crafted to have you wanting them together so badly while we are forced to wait on the edge of our seats. They are such complimentary characters, perfectly written for each other.
I adored Aliette and her sassy attitude. There was something about her that I can't quite put my finger on. I fell head over heels for this character the moment she faced Reynold and demanded food for the child. There's something about her not conforming to the roll as servant and prisoner that makes her so ... adorable. Reynold, our dark knight, is incredibly swoon worthy. With his dark hair and eyes and his tough exterior Reynold seems like the ultimate bad boy. Except he's not it's totally adorable. There is something so incredibly delicious about a sexy bad boy becoming soft over his daughter. Everything about these characters was just so well crafted and put together.
This is my first time reading the Lovers and Legends series. Despite starting on book 8, I wasn't lost or confused and feel this could totally be read as a standalone. With that said I totally intend to go back and read the ones I missed just because I loved this one so much.
You can find this and all my other reviews at
Https://fourmoonreviews.blogspot.com/
Aliette has a lot on her plate. Being a homeless thief is hard enough, however she also has three other people she has taken responsibility for. When Gabriel, the youngest of the three in Aliette's care, steals loaves of bread from a local baker Aliette fears he may of been seen and becomes scared for his life. She tries to rectify the situation by returning what she can and offering to pay for the rest. The baker is enraged and demands she pay for her crime. Aliette is then saved by these mysterious silent men. Finally they arrive at a residence where she finds out she was brought here because of a mysterious dark knight. What he wants is simple, she must claim his child as hers and she will be taken care of. Things about the knight seem less sinister than she had first expected and he may even be good under all his darkness. Now Aliette must see if she can break down his dark shell or is she doomed to be trapped with darkness.
What happens when a sexy, dark, broken knight meets a beautiful, strong willed, equally broken thief? You get a medieval sexy romance that teases and excites until it's finished and leaves you breathless. The chemistry between the dark knight and Aliette is comes on thick and fast. It is brilliantly crafted to have you wanting them together so badly while we are forced to wait on the edge of our seats. They are such complimentary characters, perfectly written for each other.
I adored Aliette and her sassy attitude. There was something about her that I can't quite put my finger on. I fell head over heels for this character the moment she faced Reynold and demanded food for the child. There's something about her not conforming to the roll as servant and prisoner that makes her so ... adorable. Reynold, our dark knight, is incredibly swoon worthy. With his dark hair and eyes and his tough exterior Reynold seems like the ultimate bad boy. Except he's not it's totally adorable. There is something so incredibly delicious about a sexy bad boy becoming soft over his daughter. Everything about these characters was just so well crafted and put together.
This is my first time reading the Lovers and Legends series. Despite starting on book 8, I wasn't lost or confused and feel this could totally be read as a standalone. With that said I totally intend to go back and read the ones I missed just because I loved this one so much.
You can find this and all my other reviews at
Https://fourmoonreviews.blogspot.com/
May 2, 2020
When love becomes the light that chases the darkness away…
Aliette is a homeless young woman, living in the streets of Paris. When she takes the blame for a theft, in order to protect someone she is in charge of taking care, she finds herself suddenly kidnapped. The stranger demands to take care of a child, claiming it’s not his child, and that Aliette will become her mother.
The stranger, Reynold, is a very suspicious man with many secrets and as a lot of secrets to hide, while Aliette will not get herself bullied and fights for her freedom and for the truth. How will these 2 persons, each other’s opposite manage to survive?
I am not unfamiliar with Nicole’s writing. So I knew it wouldn’t be an easy story where man meets woman, claims her, falls in love and they both live happily ever after. Both characters in this story are having issues. Aliette is obvious struggling as being homeless at first, and then suddenly finds herself captive and taking care of a baby. She’s also having a fear of abandonment, as her parents just left her behind without any explanation. Reynold has a lot of wealth, but has trust issues and is always looking his back. He also grew up in a violent family, making himself believe incapable of having some kind of loving feelings.
But Aliette is also a strong woman… she does not give up without a fight, and even if she thinks Reynold is Darkness, she sees there is more to him than initially thought. She also manages by just being herself, to soften the mercenaries hired by Reynold. Initially nobody talks to her, but slowly, one by one they are opening up to her. And also Reynold isn’t able to stay immune to Aliette.
I liked this story as it shows you that no matter how dark you think you are, the love of a woman, or even a baby in this case, can change your whole view of the world. And even a violent man can change his ways.
It is also about learning to trust, share your deepest secrets with those you care about. And that actions speak louder than words. No matter how many harsh words Reynold uses, Aliette sees what he truly means.
As usual Nicole did not disappoint me!
Aliette is a homeless young woman, living in the streets of Paris. When she takes the blame for a theft, in order to protect someone she is in charge of taking care, she finds herself suddenly kidnapped. The stranger demands to take care of a child, claiming it’s not his child, and that Aliette will become her mother.
The stranger, Reynold, is a very suspicious man with many secrets and as a lot of secrets to hide, while Aliette will not get herself bullied and fights for her freedom and for the truth. How will these 2 persons, each other’s opposite manage to survive?
I am not unfamiliar with Nicole’s writing. So I knew it wouldn’t be an easy story where man meets woman, claims her, falls in love and they both live happily ever after. Both characters in this story are having issues. Aliette is obvious struggling as being homeless at first, and then suddenly finds herself captive and taking care of a baby. She’s also having a fear of abandonment, as her parents just left her behind without any explanation. Reynold has a lot of wealth, but has trust issues and is always looking his back. He also grew up in a violent family, making himself believe incapable of having some kind of loving feelings.
But Aliette is also a strong woman… she does not give up without a fight, and even if she thinks Reynold is Darkness, she sees there is more to him than initially thought. She also manages by just being herself, to soften the mercenaries hired by Reynold. Initially nobody talks to her, but slowly, one by one they are opening up to her. And also Reynold isn’t able to stay immune to Aliette.
I liked this story as it shows you that no matter how dark you think you are, the love of a woman, or even a baby in this case, can change your whole view of the world. And even a violent man can change his ways.
It is also about learning to trust, share your deepest secrets with those you care about. And that actions speak louder than words. No matter how many harsh words Reynold uses, Aliette sees what he truly means.
As usual Nicole did not disappoint me!
March 4, 2020
Her Dark Knight’s Redemption is the eighth book in the Lovers and Legends series and even though I hadn’t read any of the previous books I was able to easily enjoy this story on its own merits but, of course, as with any series, it’s best to start at the beginning and work your way along.
At the start of the novel we are introduced to Sir Reynold Warstone whose complicated past and edgy personality means that no-one around him is safe from either his irascibility or constant bad humour. Accustomed to having his own way in everything to do with his life, Reynold enlists the help of Aliette, a homeless young woman who has more than her own fair share of problems, but this complex partnership brings with it complications of a very different nature for both Reynold and Aliette.
Throughout the story there’s an authentic historical feeling and the author certainly brings the thirteenth century alive. I especially enjoyed watching how the relationship between Reynold and Aliette developed and their, at times, passionate responses to each other. There’s a definite sense of light and shade within the story and the author does a great job of keeping the tension high whilst at the same time allowing a passionate love story to develop. I sense that I am being deliberately vague about the plot because it’s far too easy to reveal too much and that would, most certainly, spoil the overall effect of this medieval romance.
I love a good medieval romance and Her Dark Knights’s Redemption definitely has all the right ingredients to entertain. The relationship between the angry dark knight and his beautiful redeemer is complicated, but the myriad of emotions expressed, from anger, fear, confusion, through to lust, attraction and overwhelming passion, all help to create a lively and entertaining read.
Beautifully written, Her Dark Knight’s Redemption is an fascinating medieval romance. I am sure that fans of this series will enjoy discovering Reynold and Aliette’s passionate love story.
At the start of the novel we are introduced to Sir Reynold Warstone whose complicated past and edgy personality means that no-one around him is safe from either his irascibility or constant bad humour. Accustomed to having his own way in everything to do with his life, Reynold enlists the help of Aliette, a homeless young woman who has more than her own fair share of problems, but this complex partnership brings with it complications of a very different nature for both Reynold and Aliette.
Throughout the story there’s an authentic historical feeling and the author certainly brings the thirteenth century alive. I especially enjoyed watching how the relationship between Reynold and Aliette developed and their, at times, passionate responses to each other. There’s a definite sense of light and shade within the story and the author does a great job of keeping the tension high whilst at the same time allowing a passionate love story to develop. I sense that I am being deliberately vague about the plot because it’s far too easy to reveal too much and that would, most certainly, spoil the overall effect of this medieval romance.
I love a good medieval romance and Her Dark Knights’s Redemption definitely has all the right ingredients to entertain. The relationship between the angry dark knight and his beautiful redeemer is complicated, but the myriad of emotions expressed, from anger, fear, confusion, through to lust, attraction and overwhelming passion, all help to create a lively and entertaining read.
Beautifully written, Her Dark Knight’s Redemption is an fascinating medieval romance. I am sure that fans of this series will enjoy discovering Reynold and Aliette’s passionate love story.
February 28, 2020
Most everyone knows I love Historical Romances, they are the kinds of books I read when I need to just get transported to another time, and Nicole Locke did an amazing job with this novel, and pretty soon I'm going to start reading her books that I have at home.
I couldn't stop reading the book, I was reading it the day I had a book club session at the library, and I was even reading the book while waiting. I loved it so much and I couldn't stop because I wanted to learn more about the characters.
The amazing thing in this books is the characters. I love their interaction and I can't wait to see if Nicole Locke will give two characters I love their own books, they so deserve to be happy. But back to the MC in this story. Reynold and Aliette... Such an interesting and amazing couple. They may seem like they wouldn't be good together because of their pasts and problems, but that's where they find a connection.
They both had their past, and demons... They both had mysteries... They both were so well written that reading about them felt like I was right there, part of their family. I felt connected to them, despite my life being nothing like theirs, nevertheless, it was amazing. We see their development at the same time as we see their relationship grow and that was so fantastic and heartwarming.
I loved Aliette and her Darkness, they were one of those couples in this genre that are on my list of amazing couples. I wanted to read more about them, see their future more than what was giving to us. Then again, I'm hoping to see them in future books.
Overall, I haven't read all the books in the series, and I know some references appeared to previous books, but that didn't seemed to matter, and you can read it as a Standalone, and I promise, by the end you will want to read the entire series.
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Nicole Locke for the eCopy of this book and for allowing me to join in the fun and being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.]
I couldn't stop reading the book, I was reading it the day I had a book club session at the library, and I was even reading the book while waiting. I loved it so much and I couldn't stop because I wanted to learn more about the characters.
The amazing thing in this books is the characters. I love their interaction and I can't wait to see if Nicole Locke will give two characters I love their own books, they so deserve to be happy. But back to the MC in this story. Reynold and Aliette... Such an interesting and amazing couple. They may seem like they wouldn't be good together because of their pasts and problems, but that's where they find a connection.
They both had their past, and demons... They both had mysteries... They both were so well written that reading about them felt like I was right there, part of their family. I felt connected to them, despite my life being nothing like theirs, nevertheless, it was amazing. We see their development at the same time as we see their relationship grow and that was so fantastic and heartwarming.
I loved Aliette and her Darkness, they were one of those couples in this genre that are on my list of amazing couples. I wanted to read more about them, see their future more than what was giving to us. Then again, I'm hoping to see them in future books.
Overall, I haven't read all the books in the series, and I know some references appeared to previous books, but that didn't seemed to matter, and you can read it as a Standalone, and I promise, by the end you will want to read the entire series.
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Nicole Locke for the eCopy of this book and for allowing me to join in the fun and being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.]
February 8, 2020
My review will be live on donnasbookblog on 26th February 2020 as part of the blog tour!
I thought that this was a really good story and it was a lovely read!
I found it to be very well written and it had a lovely steady pace. I read it in one sitting when I was away on holiday and loved every page. The characters were strong and very well developed and the book had me hooked from the outset through to the excellent ending.
The action and romance was great, I could feel the agony and truth throughout - it was very well developed and a must read for me - it is 5 stars from me for this one - I loved it!
I thought that this was a really good story and it was a lovely read!
I found it to be very well written and it had a lovely steady pace. I read it in one sitting when I was away on holiday and loved every page. The characters were strong and very well developed and the book had me hooked from the outset through to the excellent ending.
The action and romance was great, I could feel the agony and truth throughout - it was very well developed and a must read for me - it is 5 stars from me for this one - I loved it!
February 26, 2020
Her Dark Knight's Redemption had a different feel to it which made for intriguing reading.
It begins in Paris in 1297. The heroine, Aliette, is not simply a lady, but a girl who has to fight for her survival every day. She looks after three strays – an older couple and a boy whose parents had been hung for theft, so when he steals several loaves of bread, she returns them to the baker who wants to see her thrown into gaol.
Instead, she is whisked away into the house of Reynold, a son of the infamous Warstones – a family more powerful than kings, where she is to look after his daughter, Grace, whose mother had died. Reynold really is a bad guy, a man who has killed during his feud against his family; a man who literally walks over corpses.
Both main characters are scarred by their past and how their lives turned out. Yet Aliette’s kindness kindles something in the hardened warrior, setting him on his path of redemption.
Her Dark Knight’s Redemption is a fast-paced, gripping read. The main characters are flawed, but still you rally for them. And even though you want them to find each other, you know the path ahead is rough. This is no simple ’happily-ever-after’, but a complex tale with much darker undertones. A brave move from the author, which pays off.
The only little snag for me was that I had the sense sometimes that I wasn’t in medieval Paris, but rather in the 15th/16th century. But it’s a minor point.
Her Dark Knight’s Redemption is great for readers who are looking for more than just a romance novel – you get an intriguing adventure with it.
My thanks goes to Rachel's Random Resources and the author for a review copy. Opinions are entirely my own.
It begins in Paris in 1297. The heroine, Aliette, is not simply a lady, but a girl who has to fight for her survival every day. She looks after three strays – an older couple and a boy whose parents had been hung for theft, so when he steals several loaves of bread, she returns them to the baker who wants to see her thrown into gaol.
Instead, she is whisked away into the house of Reynold, a son of the infamous Warstones – a family more powerful than kings, where she is to look after his daughter, Grace, whose mother had died. Reynold really is a bad guy, a man who has killed during his feud against his family; a man who literally walks over corpses.
Both main characters are scarred by their past and how their lives turned out. Yet Aliette’s kindness kindles something in the hardened warrior, setting him on his path of redemption.
Her Dark Knight’s Redemption is a fast-paced, gripping read. The main characters are flawed, but still you rally for them. And even though you want them to find each other, you know the path ahead is rough. This is no simple ’happily-ever-after’, but a complex tale with much darker undertones. A brave move from the author, which pays off.
The only little snag for me was that I had the sense sometimes that I wasn’t in medieval Paris, but rather in the 15th/16th century. But it’s a minor point.
Her Dark Knight’s Redemption is great for readers who are looking for more than just a romance novel – you get an intriguing adventure with it.
My thanks goes to Rachel's Random Resources and the author for a review copy. Opinions are entirely my own.
February 1, 2020
Her Dark Knight’s Redemption by Nicole Locke. Aliette is about to be arrested for returning loaves of bread she did not steal. Reynold is in need of a carer for his baby, so his men kidnap Aliette to be that person. There are so many secrets that they are both hiding and they are total opposites is every way, yet they find themselves attracted to each other. Can they learn to trust each other and be together. A great read.
January 2, 2020
Review to follow
02.01.2020
Originally published on Hina Loves To Read
The premise of the story was full of intrigue and I very much looked forward to reading the story. I was all set for some thrill; a tale full of secrets. Though the book was worthy of 3 stars, it was not what I was expecting.
It starts with the hero finding out that he has a secret baby whose mother kept the existence of the baby from him because he was 'dangerous'. Even though the actor is seen to kill, I still do not get how he was dangerous. But, that can be chalked to the fact that it is a part of a series and I have not read the previous books.
The heroine is a kickass woman who has a mind of her own. She is brave and that I say considering her circumstances and the time period of the story.
The story is fast paced and can be read in one sitting.
02.01.2020
Originally published on Hina Loves To Read
The premise of the story was full of intrigue and I very much looked forward to reading the story. I was all set for some thrill; a tale full of secrets. Though the book was worthy of 3 stars, it was not what I was expecting.
It starts with the hero finding out that he has a secret baby whose mother kept the existence of the baby from him because he was 'dangerous'. Even though the actor is seen to kill, I still do not get how he was dangerous. But, that can be chalked to the fact that it is a part of a series and I have not read the previous books.
The heroine is a kickass woman who has a mind of her own. She is brave and that I say considering her circumstances and the time period of the story.
The story is fast paced and can be read in one sitting.
January 2, 2020
Reynold Warstone is scarred emotionally and physically by his parents. They want him dead so he plays a deadly game of hide and seek. He soon learns that he is a father to a baby girl named Grace but he cannot let anyone know that she is his. He fears she will be killed too. Aliette is an orphan of the streets. Her parents abandoned her in the night because she wasn't a good thief. So she found a disabled older couple and a young boy who were also homeless and made them a family. Reynold or Darkness takes Aliette off the street to care for Grace. Reynold has his books and his mercenaries but he doesn't know relationships. Aliette challenges him at every turn and worries that she may never see her family again. Can Aliette make peace with Darkness finally? Can Reynold overcome his past to have the family that he wants. Many twists and turns. And one thing that Nicole Locke does so well is get inside people's emotions and makes us feel what they are feeling. Well done.
January 2, 2020
HER DARK KNIGHT’S REDEMPTION by Nicole Locke is a January 2020 release by Harlequin Historical series release.
Aliette has a good heart but an empty stomach. And she has more mouths to feed. She found abandoned kids from the street and they were family now. But now the Darkness wants her. He is a stranger and a knight.
He wants her to help him with his small baby. But where was the mother of the baby? And what are the secrets he is hiding? Will he ever trust her enough to tell?
HER DARK KNIGHT’S REDEMPTION is an interesting and intriguing story. Author Nicole Locke brought these two characters together who are strong in their own rights. Once you start reading this story you would want to finish it to find out the whole tale and how it all ends.
Highly recommended for all readers of historical romance.
Aliette has a good heart but an empty stomach. And she has more mouths to feed. She found abandoned kids from the street and they were family now. But now the Darkness wants her. He is a stranger and a knight.
He wants her to help him with his small baby. But where was the mother of the baby? And what are the secrets he is hiding? Will he ever trust her enough to tell?
HER DARK KNIGHT’S REDEMPTION is an interesting and intriguing story. Author Nicole Locke brought these two characters together who are strong in their own rights. Once you start reading this story you would want to finish it to find out the whole tale and how it all ends.
Highly recommended for all readers of historical romance.
December 30, 2019
A really good historical story which I've been getting back into lately. This one is great, it's part of a series but can be read if not with the others. If anything I think reading this encourages me to look up the others.
Aliette and Reynold (great historical names) are complete opposites and what I love about them is Aliette's challenging feisty ways and Reynold's likeableness and the genuine wish for him to be redeemed. The scenario that places the two together is enjoyable and it sets the tone for the rest of the story.
I really really enjoyed Her Dark Knight's Redemption and I will be back for more.
Aliette and Reynold (great historical names) are complete opposites and what I love about them is Aliette's challenging feisty ways and Reynold's likeableness and the genuine wish for him to be redeemed. The scenario that places the two together is enjoyable and it sets the tone for the rest of the story.
I really really enjoyed Her Dark Knight's Redemption and I will be back for more.
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