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The Briar and the Rose:
THE BRIAR AND THE ROSE is Regency Era Historical Romance set in Ireland and London.
THE BRIAR…
One moment Raven is alone in the world and working as a maid in the gardens of a grand estate in Ireland; the next she finds herself handed the life of a lady by the dark and handsome Marquess of Castlereagh. Devan insists his intentions are honorable, and that he only wishes to help reunite her with her family. But Raven finds herself in a constant struggle to deny the smoldering attraction between them, and in her secret heart, wishes he wanted more.
THE ROSE…
Devan, Marquess of Castlereagh, is tormented by his past and determined to live out his days in quiet solitude at his Ireland estate. That is until Raven enters his life. With the face of an angel, the body of Aphrodite, and the tongue of a drunken Irishman, he's never met any woman so infuriating... so seductive... so... his match.
THE LEGEND…
From historical Ireland and its mystical legends to the elegant ballrooms of Regency London, together Devan and Raven discover the truth of the past and a love so strong it cannot be denied.
Based loosely on the ballad "Barbara Allen", and more specifically on Dolly Parton's version of the ballad, THE BRIAR AND THE ROSE is set in Ireland and London.
THE BRIAR…
One moment Raven is alone in the world and working as a maid in the gardens of a grand estate in Ireland; the next she finds herself handed the life of a lady by the dark and handsome Marquess of Castlereagh. Devan insists his intentions are honorable, and that he only wishes to help reunite her with her family. But Raven finds herself in a constant struggle to deny the smoldering attraction between them, and in her secret heart, wishes he wanted more.
THE ROSE…
Devan, Marquess of Castlereagh, is tormented by his past and determined to live out his days in quiet solitude at his Ireland estate. That is until Raven enters his life. With the face of an angel, the body of Aphrodite, and the tongue of a drunken Irishman, he's never met any woman so infuriating... so seductive... so... his match.
THE LEGEND…
From historical Ireland and its mystical legends to the elegant ballrooms of Regency London, together Devan and Raven discover the truth of the past and a love so strong it cannot be denied.
Based loosely on the ballad "Barbara Allen", and more specifically on Dolly Parton's version of the ballad, THE BRIAR AND THE ROSE is set in Ireland and London.
443 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 2, 2003
15 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
About the author
Laura Mills-Alcott
2 books111 followersLaura Mills-Alcott’s first love was music, and she began her writing career at the age of eleven, when she wrote her first song. After graduating high school, she moved to Nashville, and some of her music was published.
Though she wrote her share of love songs, Laura’s favorite was the story songs—the modern day equivalent of the old ballads. However, she often found herself frustrated when attempting to fit a single title novel into three verses, a bridge, and a chorus. So one day she decided she’d try her hand at writing a book. “After writing the first paragraph,” she says, “I was hooked.”
In The Briar and the Rose, she combines her love of music with her love for romantic novels and history.
Laura and her work have been featured in Romantic Times Magazine, on the “Talk America Radio Network”, and she acted as a consultant for the daytime talk show “The Other Half” on a segment dealing with why women read romance novels. Her non-fiction interviews have been published in newspapers and online, and her short stories have been published in a variety of print and electronic formats.
Laura currently resides in NE Ohio with her husband, where she spends her time restoring historical homes, and owns a remodeling company – Regency Remodeling – with her husband. She loves spending time with her children and two beautiful grandchildren, as well as her three dogs, and too many cats.
She enjoys hearing from readers.
Visit Laura’s website: http://www.facebook.com/lmalcott2
Though she wrote her share of love songs, Laura’s favorite was the story songs—the modern day equivalent of the old ballads. However, she often found herself frustrated when attempting to fit a single title novel into three verses, a bridge, and a chorus. So one day she decided she’d try her hand at writing a book. “After writing the first paragraph,” she says, “I was hooked.”
In The Briar and the Rose, she combines her love of music with her love for romantic novels and history.
Laura and her work have been featured in Romantic Times Magazine, on the “Talk America Radio Network”, and she acted as a consultant for the daytime talk show “The Other Half” on a segment dealing with why women read romance novels. Her non-fiction interviews have been published in newspapers and online, and her short stories have been published in a variety of print and electronic formats.
Laura currently resides in NE Ohio with her husband, where she spends her time restoring historical homes, and owns a remodeling company – Regency Remodeling – with her husband. She loves spending time with her children and two beautiful grandchildren, as well as her three dogs, and too many cats.
She enjoys hearing from readers.
Visit Laura’s website: http://www.facebook.com/lmalcott2
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
January 11, 2020
(Adding this January 2020)I just have to edit my review to state this. When I read this book, I debated heavily as what to put it. For me, it was a 2 star book. Perhaps 2 1/2. The author was in a facebook group I am in, so I thought it would be best to round up to 3 stars. I stated my review kindly and made effort to point out what people might like about this book but still saying how I felt about it. I know I'm a picky reader. I always state this as well. I'm not just out to give bad reviews, there's just certain things that don't do it for me in romance.
The author, Laura Mills-Alcott, has been extremely aggressive, pushy, argumentative, downright rude, and just plain scary in her facebook comments. Once she was no longer in the group, I felt safe enough to rate the book as I honestly thought, as 2 stars. I thought that would be the end of it. Two months later, she decided to MESSAGE me and confront me on changing it from 3 to 2 stars.. I'm rather flabbergasted. I never thought I would have an author confront me on writing a review. I'm not going to lie, I had no idea what to say. I asked her if she wanted to talk about why I changed it, because why else message me about it? And she told me I did it only to be petty and it made her laugh and she appreciates the fodder. I just left the conversation. From witnessing her facebook conversations I knew trying to explain my feelings on the book would just lead me straight to a liquor store. It was also obvious she didn't want an honest discussion about my feelings about the book or the review or anything. She just really loves to argue and confront, I think. I'm not really sure.
While her unprofessionalism doesn't surprise me, it still left me unsettled. She had stated repeatedly in the group that lower ratings were also important for authors to make readers think it wasn't just their family/friends giving them 5 stars. Apparently 2 stars is too low. If you read this book, I hope you love it. If not...beware...
Perhaps I'll get another message for adding in these notes. I'm not sure. I'm a little scared lol.
(Review November 2019)
This book is the first I've tried that has 2 reading options – an edited version that is closed door love scenes and an original version that is more explicit. While great in theory, as in there's something for everyone, I didn't like that it was in the same book. I'm sure it's just the fact that I will ALWAYS choose an explicit version over closed door. When you open the book, it starts past the explanation about it all, so unless you go back to read everything you will probably be a little confused. Or you'll start the story with the less steamy version. If I wouldn't have known all this before starting, I would have been annoyed getting closed door first. But of course that's because I love the sex haha. I'm sure if I preferred closed door scenes I would have been happier. My other complaint about this is you will have no idea how far you are in the book since there's 2 books in 1. I mean, you can search for when each book ends and figure it out, and I guess you run into the same thing with anthologies, but I just didn't love it. I'm lazy like that haha.
There are slight spoilers in this review. I tried to keep specifics to things found very early in the book. However if you like to be totally surprised, please stop now and go read it :) Then tell me how you liked it!
My own personal preference for romance is pretty specific. I want the characters really focused on each other and I don't like a lot of other things going on in the book. I totally get that's not how everyone is and others get bored with a lack of plot devices. I felt like there was so much going on in this book. And it's going to be hard to talk about it without spoiling things.
Devan, Lord Castlereagh, was so unlikable to me at first. He growled at everyone, snarled, was beyond rude. Would just get up and leave a room. Demand things. I wish a bit more of his history was given, his pain, that had made him become this. He makes a turn around about ¼ to ½ through the book, but I saw nothing enjoyable about him in the beginning. Grouchy, rude, but he is recovering from a devastating loss, so I guess it's excusable. But anyway he does turn himself around and became quite pleasant.
I didn't like the first kiss at all either, but I will say those scenes improved as the book went on as well. To me, the first kiss takes place way too soon. They don't know each other at all, and the heroine, Raven, is literally in fear of him. There is struggling, and then it turns into desire. I want that tension and nothing had built up yet. I didn't understand where the switch came from. I didn't feel the passion.
Raven has come upon Devan's manor after losing her memory. He is drawn to her in a way he can't understand. She is acting as a servant in his house, so he moves her upstairs and dresses her in fine clothes. And almost immediately begins the misunderstands. It's almost constant through the whole book. The Big Miscommunication. Multiple misunderstandings that could easily be remedied with a bit of heartfelt dialogue. I do feel like these characters didn't do enough talking. They spend the book in turmoil, the hero thinking this and that and the heroine thinking that and this and none of it is even true. Raven started driving me nuts and she does something, or I guess DOESN'T do something with a secret formed later in the book that I kinda really dislike in books. Again, just me being picky.
Through all this book, the paranormal theme involves the long gone lovers, Mairead and Seamus. Feelings and dreams from this couple affect Devan and Raven. The thing that was weird to me was how Raven didn't have the same awareness of what was going on in the dreams as related to current time as Devan. It was like she was possessed. I just felt like this happening in the book could have worked if it was one of the only obstacles the couple was facing. But instead, it was this and miscommunications, and a mean girl vying for the hero, and the heroine's amnesia and trying to find her identity, and some other things that I don't even want to mention because they are spoilers. (These things mentioned happen very early in the book.) It was just too much and I feel like Devan and Raven got lost in all the craziness. As I finished, I felt like I still didn't really know either of them. I felt like Raven wasn't even her own person. I felt like I knew Mairead more, which perhaps was purposeful, I'm not sure.
I'd also like to say that Devan repeatedly disappointed me when it came to protecting and standing up for Raven. While his character did a pleasant turn around for me from the beginning, he still let her feelings and heart get trampled more than I would have liked.
Finally, the book just kept going. There are reasons for this, yet I was just ready to be done. But everything is wrapped up and addressed by the end.
The author, Laura Mills-Alcott, has been extremely aggressive, pushy, argumentative, downright rude, and just plain scary in her facebook comments. Once she was no longer in the group, I felt safe enough to rate the book as I honestly thought, as 2 stars. I thought that would be the end of it. Two months later, she decided to MESSAGE me and confront me on changing it from 3 to 2 stars.. I'm rather flabbergasted. I never thought I would have an author confront me on writing a review. I'm not going to lie, I had no idea what to say. I asked her if she wanted to talk about why I changed it, because why else message me about it? And she told me I did it only to be petty and it made her laugh and she appreciates the fodder. I just left the conversation. From witnessing her facebook conversations I knew trying to explain my feelings on the book would just lead me straight to a liquor store. It was also obvious she didn't want an honest discussion about my feelings about the book or the review or anything. She just really loves to argue and confront, I think. I'm not really sure.
While her unprofessionalism doesn't surprise me, it still left me unsettled. She had stated repeatedly in the group that lower ratings were also important for authors to make readers think it wasn't just their family/friends giving them 5 stars. Apparently 2 stars is too low. If you read this book, I hope you love it. If not...beware...
Perhaps I'll get another message for adding in these notes. I'm not sure. I'm a little scared lol.
(Review November 2019)
This book is the first I've tried that has 2 reading options – an edited version that is closed door love scenes and an original version that is more explicit. While great in theory, as in there's something for everyone, I didn't like that it was in the same book. I'm sure it's just the fact that I will ALWAYS choose an explicit version over closed door. When you open the book, it starts past the explanation about it all, so unless you go back to read everything you will probably be a little confused. Or you'll start the story with the less steamy version. If I wouldn't have known all this before starting, I would have been annoyed getting closed door first. But of course that's because I love the sex haha. I'm sure if I preferred closed door scenes I would have been happier. My other complaint about this is you will have no idea how far you are in the book since there's 2 books in 1. I mean, you can search for when each book ends and figure it out, and I guess you run into the same thing with anthologies, but I just didn't love it. I'm lazy like that haha.
There are slight spoilers in this review. I tried to keep specifics to things found very early in the book. However if you like to be totally surprised, please stop now and go read it :) Then tell me how you liked it!
My own personal preference for romance is pretty specific. I want the characters really focused on each other and I don't like a lot of other things going on in the book. I totally get that's not how everyone is and others get bored with a lack of plot devices. I felt like there was so much going on in this book. And it's going to be hard to talk about it without spoiling things.
Devan, Lord Castlereagh, was so unlikable to me at first. He growled at everyone, snarled, was beyond rude. Would just get up and leave a room. Demand things. I wish a bit more of his history was given, his pain, that had made him become this. He makes a turn around about ¼ to ½ through the book, but I saw nothing enjoyable about him in the beginning. Grouchy, rude, but he is recovering from a devastating loss, so I guess it's excusable. But anyway he does turn himself around and became quite pleasant.
I didn't like the first kiss at all either, but I will say those scenes improved as the book went on as well. To me, the first kiss takes place way too soon. They don't know each other at all, and the heroine, Raven, is literally in fear of him. There is struggling, and then it turns into desire. I want that tension and nothing had built up yet. I didn't understand where the switch came from. I didn't feel the passion.
Raven has come upon Devan's manor after losing her memory. He is drawn to her in a way he can't understand. She is acting as a servant in his house, so he moves her upstairs and dresses her in fine clothes. And almost immediately begins the misunderstands. It's almost constant through the whole book. The Big Miscommunication. Multiple misunderstandings that could easily be remedied with a bit of heartfelt dialogue. I do feel like these characters didn't do enough talking. They spend the book in turmoil, the hero thinking this and that and the heroine thinking that and this and none of it is even true. Raven started driving me nuts and she does something, or I guess DOESN'T do something with a secret formed later in the book that I kinda really dislike in books. Again, just me being picky.
Through all this book, the paranormal theme involves the long gone lovers, Mairead and Seamus. Feelings and dreams from this couple affect Devan and Raven. The thing that was weird to me was how Raven didn't have the same awareness of what was going on in the dreams as related to current time as Devan. It was like she was possessed. I just felt like this happening in the book could have worked if it was one of the only obstacles the couple was facing. But instead, it was this and miscommunications, and a mean girl vying for the hero, and the heroine's amnesia and trying to find her identity, and some other things that I don't even want to mention because they are spoilers. (These things mentioned happen very early in the book.) It was just too much and I feel like Devan and Raven got lost in all the craziness. As I finished, I felt like I still didn't really know either of them. I felt like Raven wasn't even her own person. I felt like I knew Mairead more, which perhaps was purposeful, I'm not sure.
I'd also like to say that Devan repeatedly disappointed me when it came to protecting and standing up for Raven. While his character did a pleasant turn around for me from the beginning, he still let her feelings and heart get trampled more than I would have liked.
Finally, the book just kept going. There are reasons for this, yet I was just ready to be done. But everything is wrapped up and addressed by the end.
October 14, 2019
This is very classic romance, which reminded me of my long-time favourites – Victoria Holt and Kathleen Woodiwiss. As a big fan of folklore and of Early Modern music, I was very curious to read a retelling of “Barbara Allen”, a ballad I know well. This book is an enchanting rendering of the theme of the star-crossed lovers in the ballad, with enough twists of the plot and suspense to keep readers hooked. Devan Castlereagh is heartbroken after losing the love his life in a tragic accident. In comes Raven, a mysterious Irish beauty, who doesn’t remember anything about her own past, and who looks exactly like Devan’s lost love. The attraction between Devan and Raven, and the mystery of Raven’s origins are further enhanced by the story of two Irish lovers from the past, Mairead and Seamus. Devan and Raven keep seeing them in their dreams, and their present story seems inexplicably entwined with this past story of love. What I enjoyed most about this book is the fairy-tale-like setting and the nostalgic feel of old Ireland. I also enjoyed the classically romantic interaction between the hero and the heroine, as well as the writing style, which is not anachronistic in any way, and effectively captures the tone of the age the author wants to evoke. Secondary characters such as Mrs Captain, Victor and Collette, and even Priscilla add further depth to the tumultuous story, filled with obstacles, which the two lovers live. This is romance indeed – the kind of romance which is the inspiration for ballads…
October 20, 2019
I might be hooked! It has been several years since I read a historical romance and it might not be so long the next time. I loved the history behind this story. It is loosely based on the ballad of “Barbara Allen” and the old Irish folktale of “The Briar and the Rose”.
Right after I finished this book there was a documentary of country music and I was excited to hear them talking with Dolly Parton about Barbara Allen and the old Irish folktale. Have you ever had that happen to you? First, you were ignorant about something and then you hear it again within a short period of time. That was nice because now I knew something about The Briar and the Rose.
This book is definitely worth the time to read. You won’t be sorry! There is something for everyone. However you have to do it, go out and obtain a copy of The Briar and the Rose by Laura Mills-Alcott today.
I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Right after I finished this book there was a documentary of country music and I was excited to hear them talking with Dolly Parton about Barbara Allen and the old Irish folktale. Have you ever had that happen to you? First, you were ignorant about something and then you hear it again within a short period of time. That was nice because now I knew something about The Briar and the Rose.
This book is definitely worth the time to read. You won’t be sorry! There is something for everyone. However you have to do it, go out and obtain a copy of The Briar and the Rose by Laura Mills-Alcott today.
I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
December 21, 2019
A well-told story with a few twists. An especially big twist at the end. You should read it. I have a longer review at https://cardinalbluff.com There are re-read dates because I read the book, then came back to it for details to review.
December 11, 2019
The Briar and the Rose by Laura Mills-Alcott
This historical era romance will grab you in the first chapter. (It is based on an old Gaelic song. Dolly Parton sings a version of it – Barbara Allen. I highly recommend you listen to it.)
The book incorporates the song version as a memory or dream between the two main characters. Both characters are unsure if it is a dream or a memory or a key to the past. Can dreams be our unconscious trying to tell us something?
A girl shows up at the estate of Devan, Marquess of Castlereagh, with no memory of who she is. Collette, one of the staff names her Raven because of her dark hair. The Marquess takes her in. Although there is something familiar about this girl, the Marquess is hesitant. She is given a position as a maid. But what if she is not a mere peasant, but rather someone of social status?
As Devan waits for Raven to regain any memory, he begins to fall in love with her. Raven has feelings too. But, will she learn to trust her heart, even as she regains her memory?
This is a must read. Don’t miss this epic story.
NOTE: There are two versions of this story. One is PG, the other is R. I read the PG version.
This historical era romance will grab you in the first chapter. (It is based on an old Gaelic song. Dolly Parton sings a version of it – Barbara Allen. I highly recommend you listen to it.)
The book incorporates the song version as a memory or dream between the two main characters. Both characters are unsure if it is a dream or a memory or a key to the past. Can dreams be our unconscious trying to tell us something?
A girl shows up at the estate of Devan, Marquess of Castlereagh, with no memory of who she is. Collette, one of the staff names her Raven because of her dark hair. The Marquess takes her in. Although there is something familiar about this girl, the Marquess is hesitant. She is given a position as a maid. But what if she is not a mere peasant, but rather someone of social status?
As Devan waits for Raven to regain any memory, he begins to fall in love with her. Raven has feelings too. But, will she learn to trust her heart, even as she regains her memory?
This is a must read. Don’t miss this epic story.
NOTE: There are two versions of this story. One is PG, the other is R. I read the PG version.
October 11, 2019
Good love story from an author who got her inspiration from a 1600's Scottish ballad. Although you know where the story is headed within a few pages, the journey to the end was a fun read.
December 10, 2019
I loved this book!!! What a wonderful imagination Laura Mills Alcott has! I was hooked within the first chapter! I found some humour in the way Raven and Devan's thoughts were, just like a real relationships when couples don't say what is on their mind. The way Laura's imagination was with the dreams and what happened when the went to London had me awed! What a fantastic book!!!
December 24, 2019
Years ago I found my love of reading with Nancy Drew and when she was done solving mysteries I moved on to Stephen King.
Then I became a newlywed bride and fell in love with gothic romance novels. I just couldn’t get enough. After I had exhausted so many of them I moved on to mysteries and thrillers.
But when I had the opportunity to revisit romance I jumped at the chance and I just might be hooked all over again.
This is a review for the PG version of the title and I had not read the more explicit version but I still loved it so much but I must admit I did want a bit more...well, you know 💕
The story explores different times as well as different points of views and both reality and dreams. The Marquess of Castlereagh has lost his one true love in a fire however her body has never been found. Looking out his window one day he spies a servant girl tending to his garden. When Raven is brought to him he is astonished at her resemblance to his lost love but she has no memories of who she is.
This is loosely based on the ballad “Barbara Allen” written about 1600 and I absolutely had to listen to this song so I recommend you do the same.
Without giving away any spoilers let’s just say I really loved this book because the writing totally draws you in and about 1/2 into the book I had to sit down and finish. I was so engrossed that when I finished I literally found tears streaming down my face.
I’d like to thank the author for this gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 🌟🌟🌟💫
Then I became a newlywed bride and fell in love with gothic romance novels. I just couldn’t get enough. After I had exhausted so many of them I moved on to mysteries and thrillers.
But when I had the opportunity to revisit romance I jumped at the chance and I just might be hooked all over again.
This is a review for the PG version of the title and I had not read the more explicit version but I still loved it so much but I must admit I did want a bit more...well, you know 💕
The story explores different times as well as different points of views and both reality and dreams. The Marquess of Castlereagh has lost his one true love in a fire however her body has never been found. Looking out his window one day he spies a servant girl tending to his garden. When Raven is brought to him he is astonished at her resemblance to his lost love but she has no memories of who she is.
This is loosely based on the ballad “Barbara Allen” written about 1600 and I absolutely had to listen to this song so I recommend you do the same.
Without giving away any spoilers let’s just say I really loved this book because the writing totally draws you in and about 1/2 into the book I had to sit down and finish. I was so engrossed that when I finished I literally found tears streaming down my face.
I’d like to thank the author for this gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 🌟🌟🌟💫
October 1, 2019
Until the end, I was unaware it was based on a Dolly Parton song. As wrapped up in the story line as I was, it just never crossed my mind. I was so wrapped up in Devan and Raven and figuring out when they were going to realize their obvious love for each other and Raven's memory loss. Does she ever get it back? Where does Seamus and the older story lead and how is it related to the future? Whatever happened to Katherine that Devan loved before? The plot twists and turns draw you into the story from page one and doesn't let you go. It has well developed characters, believable time relativity and a love story that leads to three happily ever afters for two people. In order to know how that happens, you'll have to read this wonderful story. The first I've read by this author, but definitely not my last!
September 9, 2019
Wow! I can't recall a book that's put my stomach in knots like a roller coaster like this one. Just when I thought I had it figured out the ride takes off again. A really neat imaginative story with richly developed characters that make me feel like I was there. I found myself yelling at my Kindle when a clue was missed, and almost weeping when a chance slipped by.
I really loved the extras in the beginning and end about the who and why. I also now have a new favorite Dolly Parton song.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I really loved the extras in the beginning and end about the who and why. I also now have a new favorite Dolly Parton song.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
September 21, 2019
My rating is actually 4.5 stars. I loved the mix of paranormal into this love story! The story of Mairead and Seamus was heartbreaking, but I was so glad they got their HEA with the help of Devan and Raven, who had their own awesome love story. The road to happiness was definitely not an easy one for either couple, but this story really makes one want to believe in soulmates! No spoilers, but I really loved the ending, too. I will definitely read more of Laura Mills-Alcott!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 29, 2019
Raven and Devan or?
There is one word to describe this work and that is Outstanding!! It was intriguing and so well-written full of wonderful magic and characters that will take your breath away. Yes, I loved this fairytale paranormal romance. There will be parts that will touch your heart this is a complex story and I look forward to reading other works by Laura Mills-Alcott. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it
There is one word to describe this work and that is Outstanding!! It was intriguing and so well-written full of wonderful magic and characters that will take your breath away. Yes, I loved this fairytale paranormal romance. There will be parts that will touch your heart this is a complex story and I look forward to reading other works by Laura Mills-Alcott. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it
September 28, 2019
This historical paranormal romance is the first book I have read by this author and I loved it. The author's descriptions draw you into the story as the paranormal is woven nicely within the Regency era. There is passion, humour, heartbreak, and drama in this well-written story. The characters are well developed and very likable.
I read and reviewed a copy of this book with no obligation.
I read and reviewed a copy of this book with no obligation.
September 8, 2019
Historical romance
If you like historical romances then you will love this book with a setting in Ireland. I really enjoyed it.
If you like historical romances then you will love this book with a setting in Ireland. I really enjoyed it.
November 28, 2019
Great love story of star crossed lovers.
October 12, 2019
This is a Regency era romance with a paranormal flare. I've read more than a few paranormal books, but never a historical romance. This was a first for me.
According to the History write-up in the front of the book, it's based on the ballad called "Barbara Allen" and the Irish folktale, "The Briar and the Rose", neither of which I'd ever heard. I read the variations of the folktale and the lyrics to the song by Dolly Parton, who was more than happy to endorse this book.
Devan Castlereagh was at a ball when he met the beautiful Katherine Windham. Tragically, a fire broke out and she was lost. He is grieving for her and in a foul mood when he happens to look out the window of his house and saw a woman taking care of the roses in his garden. He'd never seen her before, but she looks very familiar. He knows Katherine was lost in the fire despite his attempts to save her, but this woman holds an uncanny resemblance to Katherine. He beckons her to his library to get a better look and knows something weird is going on. He discovers that her name is Raven and she has somehow lost her memory and remembers nothing before showing up at his estate.
Raven and Devan have similar dreams. Raven somehow takes on the personality of Mairead and identifies Devan as Mairead's lover, Seamus. Devan isn't sure what to make of this and plays along. Raven remembers nothing in the morning. Devan remembers it all. The whole thing with that gave it a supernatural feel that couldn't be denied.
Meanwhile, Devan is hosting a ball where he is supposed to escort nasty Priscilla Coushite (I know I was probably pronouncing that wrong in my head and laughed every time I saw it) because he lost a bet with her father. There was nothing funny about Priscilla, though. She was dreadful and treated Raven badly. Devan escorting Priscilla to the ball created a huge misunderstanding that could have been worked out with just a few sentences and having the right question asked. But it went on for pages and pages and Raven was going to extremes to get away from Devan. It was frustrating. I wanted to shake Raven and tell her to quit her whining and ask Devan what his intentions were. I couldn't blame him for anything because he had no idea why she was doing this. There was no useful communication between them.
I thought all was lost for this book until...the steamy version. Up until I got to that part, I felt nothing but aggravation for Raven, pity for Devan because the poor guy had no idea what was going on and trying to make her happy was an exercise in futility, and I was getting some chuckles from Brookshire, Devan's friend. The only tension was between me and Raven. But once I hit the steamy version of the book, it all changed. I don't know if it's because I prefer a steamier novel and the PG version was very clean or if it's because I could feel Raven and Devan falling in love. In the steamy version (Rated R), we get to see both characters in a whole new light and it was easier to empathize with them. The scenes weren't overdone and smutty, but they were still hot.
I found parts of the story to be predictable. As a matter of fact, I thought the book could've ended two times before it actually did. It wasn't filled with fluff, though. There was a point to extending it.
I didn't care for the clean version of the story, but I liked the steamy one, thus earning this book three stars.
According to the History write-up in the front of the book, it's based on the ballad called "Barbara Allen" and the Irish folktale, "The Briar and the Rose", neither of which I'd ever heard. I read the variations of the folktale and the lyrics to the song by Dolly Parton, who was more than happy to endorse this book.
Devan Castlereagh was at a ball when he met the beautiful Katherine Windham. Tragically, a fire broke out and she was lost. He is grieving for her and in a foul mood when he happens to look out the window of his house and saw a woman taking care of the roses in his garden. He'd never seen her before, but she looks very familiar. He knows Katherine was lost in the fire despite his attempts to save her, but this woman holds an uncanny resemblance to Katherine. He beckons her to his library to get a better look and knows something weird is going on. He discovers that her name is Raven and she has somehow lost her memory and remembers nothing before showing up at his estate.
Raven and Devan have similar dreams. Raven somehow takes on the personality of Mairead and identifies Devan as Mairead's lover, Seamus. Devan isn't sure what to make of this and plays along. Raven remembers nothing in the morning. Devan remembers it all. The whole thing with that gave it a supernatural feel that couldn't be denied.
Meanwhile, Devan is hosting a ball where he is supposed to escort nasty Priscilla Coushite (I know I was probably pronouncing that wrong in my head and laughed every time I saw it) because he lost a bet with her father. There was nothing funny about Priscilla, though. She was dreadful and treated Raven badly. Devan escorting Priscilla to the ball created a huge misunderstanding that could have been worked out with just a few sentences and having the right question asked. But it went on for pages and pages and Raven was going to extremes to get away from Devan. It was frustrating. I wanted to shake Raven and tell her to quit her whining and ask Devan what his intentions were. I couldn't blame him for anything because he had no idea why she was doing this. There was no useful communication between them.
I thought all was lost for this book until...the steamy version. Up until I got to that part, I felt nothing but aggravation for Raven, pity for Devan because the poor guy had no idea what was going on and trying to make her happy was an exercise in futility, and I was getting some chuckles from Brookshire, Devan's friend. The only tension was between me and Raven. But once I hit the steamy version of the book, it all changed. I don't know if it's because I prefer a steamier novel and the PG version was very clean or if it's because I could feel Raven and Devan falling in love. In the steamy version (Rated R), we get to see both characters in a whole new light and it was easier to empathize with them. The scenes weren't overdone and smutty, but they were still hot.
I found parts of the story to be predictable. As a matter of fact, I thought the book could've ended two times before it actually did. It wasn't filled with fluff, though. There was a point to extending it.
I didn't care for the clean version of the story, but I liked the steamy one, thus earning this book three stars.
March 5, 2020
How was this even published?
It’s almost hilarious how bad this novel is. While the inspiration for it may be intriguing, the writing is awful. I don’t know how a book with such stilted language was even published. If you’ve ever watched the episode of Friends where Joey consults a thesaurus to write a letter on behalf of Chandler and Monica, his grasp of the English language is much better than what is in this story.
I am a fan of romance novels and of historical romance & historical fiction, but this book is just abysmal. She is attempting to sound like she is from the era being portrayed, but her execution leaves so much to be desired. Honestly, if I didn’t know better, I would think this is a parody of romance novels. Not only would I tell people not to read this book, I would recommend never reading another book by this author again.
It’s almost hilarious how bad this novel is. While the inspiration for it may be intriguing, the writing is awful. I don’t know how a book with such stilted language was even published. If you’ve ever watched the episode of Friends where Joey consults a thesaurus to write a letter on behalf of Chandler and Monica, his grasp of the English language is much better than what is in this story.
I am a fan of romance novels and of historical romance & historical fiction, but this book is just abysmal. She is attempting to sound like she is from the era being portrayed, but her execution leaves so much to be desired. Honestly, if I didn’t know better, I would think this is a parody of romance novels. Not only would I tell people not to read this book, I would recommend never reading another book by this author again.
August 31, 2019
I really enjoyed Laura Mills-Alcott’s, The Briar and the Rose. It was an intriguing story about a beautiful woman named Raven, who awakens in a garden at Castlereagh. There she meets the owner of the estate, handsome Marquess Devan and they are mysteriously connected through their mutual dreams and their passion for each other as well.
I enjoyed reading as Raven and Devan’s love grows and how the plot twists and turns along the way.
4 stars, and if you enjoy books with romance, a bit of history and a bit of magic...this one is for you!
I enjoyed reading as Raven and Devan’s love grows and how the plot twists and turns along the way.
4 stars, and if you enjoy books with romance, a bit of history and a bit of magic...this one is for you!
December 8, 2019
I LOVED the angst Devan went through! And all the confusion Raven went through trying to figure everything out. The only reason I rated this 4 stars because I felt Raven shouldn’t have had that accent when she was gentry. She did forget who she was but it’s not like she was taught how to speak all over again. She should have spoken properly. I would love to purchase this book in audio if it becomes available.
*I was given this Kindle book by the Author for review purposes. Thank you.
*I was given this Kindle book by the Author for review purposes. Thank you.
September 22, 2019
The Brair and the Rose was the first book that I have read from this author. I found the story to be very well written, lots of twists and turns that kept me turning the pages. I believe that anyone that enjoys historical romances will more than likely love this book. I would recommend this story to my friends that enjoy this genre.
September 30, 2019
This is the first historical romance I have read and I must say I was so captivated by the story. I was rooting so hard for Devan and Raven. There were several times I was shaking and yelling NOOOOO at my Kindle. Oh the frustration knowing things might not have turned out the way that they did. A beautiful love story and a real page turner. I look forward to more of Laura Mills-Alcotts writings.
December 31, 2019
Good Regency Read
This was a really good historical and imaginative regency read with great characters that was set in Ireland. This book kept my attention and I could not put it down until the very end. I also enjoyed the two different versions (clean and explicit) to choose from, in the same book .
This was a really good historical and imaginative regency read with great characters that was set in Ireland. This book kept my attention and I could not put it down until the very end. I also enjoyed the two different versions (clean and explicit) to choose from, in the same book .
November 21, 2019
Author Laura Mills Alcott has written a beautiful mysterious historical romance that had me from page one! Devan, Marquess of Castlereagh, has been nursing a broken heart from losing the beautiful Katherine in a devastating fire. Having only met Katherine on that night, Devan truly believes in love at first sight. Going through his daily routine is difficult for Devan until he spots new servant, Raven in his garden. Believing she is his beautiful Katherine, Devan's heart breaks again after hearing Raven's irish brogue, until he notices the true beauty of Raven. Soon after, Devan begins having strange dreams of being in another place and time with Raven. What could this mean? Raven is unsure of her true identity after being found by Collette, a servant of Marquess of Castlereagh. After being introduced to Devan, Raven also begins having the same dreams. Will these dreams answer the question of who Raven truly is? What is her connection to the Marquess? Will these past be able to correct itself so that these two can find happily ever after? I was so drawn into this amazing story with a glorious mix of mystery, romance and paranormal. I am looking forward to seeing more from this amazing author!
December 7, 2019
I had no knowledge of the tragic ballad this is based on, but it isn't for me.
The first forced kiss was cringeworthy. The oddness of them falling in love suddenly was dragged out way too long with misunderstandings and paranormal dreams. The Regency setting felt off, maybe because it was in Ireland?-- it ignored most the conventions of the time (she is called by her personal name instead of Miss and calls others by theirs, she is taught to ride astride, she bathes in the pond, she makes off with a horse from a Lord's stables at night and only he notices, etc.) Lots of angst in both characters--heroine is even described as weeping woefully.
Found some punctuation errors but otherwise written well.
I will keep my historical romance separate from my fantasy romance.
The first forced kiss was cringeworthy. The oddness of them falling in love suddenly was dragged out way too long with misunderstandings and paranormal dreams. The Regency setting felt off, maybe because it was in Ireland?-- it ignored most the conventions of the time (she is called by her personal name instead of Miss and calls others by theirs, she is taught to ride astride, she bathes in the pond, she makes off with a horse from a Lord's stables at night and only he notices, etc.) Lots of angst in both characters--heroine is even described as weeping woefully.
Found some punctuation errors but otherwise written well.
I will keep my historical romance separate from my fantasy romance.
March 12, 2020
oof.
I really gave it a shot and well.. i would need a few more shots to get through this heaping pile of thesaurus salad. If you're going to write a historical piece, at least make it accurate. Raven.. really? I cant. I love this genre, and I wanted to read some trash in my downtime, but this takes trash to a whole new level. It's a bit like wanting to see the botanical gardens but getting tickets to an astro-TERF convention instead. Read it while it's free on kindle but dont waste your money on it. I gave it 2 stars because laughter is the best medicine and I needed the laughs.
*edited to add apparently this "writer" will track you down on fb and twitter if she doesnt like your review, seems a bit unhinged to me.
*edited again to give it 1 star after the very stable response from the author as seen below. As if it were anyone else's fault the best she could come up with was raven.
I really gave it a shot and well.. i would need a few more shots to get through this heaping pile of thesaurus salad. If you're going to write a historical piece, at least make it accurate. Raven.. really? I cant. I love this genre, and I wanted to read some trash in my downtime, but this takes trash to a whole new level. It's a bit like wanting to see the botanical gardens but getting tickets to an astro-TERF convention instead. Read it while it's free on kindle but dont waste your money on it. I gave it 2 stars because laughter is the best medicine and I needed the laughs.
*edited to add apparently this "writer" will track you down on fb and twitter if she doesnt like your review, seems a bit unhinged to me.
*edited again to give it 1 star after the very stable response from the author as seen below. As if it were anyone else's fault the best she could come up with was raven.
October 28, 2019
Interesting takes on a classic tale
This book is a classic take of a beloved folk-tale. It two versions of the same one but the first is what is call a clean romance and he second is not without enhanced sex scenes and bad language.
Raven is a young lady that is a maid for a noble man. Without a memory or a past, she struggles to find her place when Devan bestows upon her gifts and statist that leaves Raven confused, frightened of what's next and suspicious of Devan's motives even know her feelings are growing for the lonely man due to his wife's death. Their attraction between both leave them searching for the right words, actions and deeds before it's to late for both to find each other HEA.
This book is a classic take of a beloved folk-tale. It two versions of the same one but the first is what is call a clean romance and he second is not without enhanced sex scenes and bad language.
Raven is a young lady that is a maid for a noble man. Without a memory or a past, she struggles to find her place when Devan bestows upon her gifts and statist that leaves Raven confused, frightened of what's next and suspicious of Devan's motives even know her feelings are growing for the lonely man due to his wife's death. Their attraction between both leave them searching for the right words, actions and deeds before it's to late for both to find each other HEA.
January 13, 2020
This was just not my cup of tea and I just could not get into it (I made it to page 45)....and since it was a dnf I will not leave a one star review in all fairness to the author ...maybe later on I will retry it again and see if my opinion is different ...if so I will change my rating then
May 6, 2020
1 star rounded up to two for the authors effort that was put into writing this book. I was genuinely excited to start this book as it had some high ratings. Sadly, it ended as a dnf. I couldn't focus into the book. There was no excitement for me, and as a result stopped reading at page 56.
February 26, 2020
When Devan, Marquess of Castlereagh sees a servant girl picking flowers in his garden he can’t believe it; the servant known only as Raven resembles his dead love Katherine. Devan knows there is something special about Raven and elevates her status from servant to lady until she recovers her memory. As Devan slowly gets to know Raven he can’t help but be entranced by her and slowly falls for her. Devan is also haunted by his past and his love for Katherine but still wants Raven. Raven holds a lot of secrets and knows she loves Devan she can’t give into her desire to be with him even though she can’t avoid him. Will Devan be able to let go of the past and when he finds out the truth will he still be able to love Raven? Will Raven open her heart to Devan or give into her fears and be with someone else?
This is a heartfelt love story shrouded in mystery and suspense. The romance is a little bit rocky quite cautionary and filled with danger which isn’t altogether bad. The writing has traces of gothic romanticism but still there is lightness and a whimsical nature to it so you don’t feel doomed throughout plus, the love between the characters is easily felt. There are quite a few time jumps making you wonder what happened during the time in between though. Raven the mystical amnesia heroine maintains that secrecy throughout. So everything about her is one big conundrum! Raven goes on nightly wanderings even though she doesn’t know it and even is able to show her feelings for Devan while in this state; of course it never tells us if she is actually sleepwalking but maybe it’s nicer to believe that she does. When she is fully awake she denies him and refuses to marry him which just makes us angry and despise her no matter if she is just trying to save him from maybe herself, we never truly know? Plus, we never truly trust Raven and get the sense that she will leave Devan anyway. Devan the brooding irate hero is a little bit better even changing from a mean miserly guy to a more pleasant person and at least tries to show his love even though he keeps getting denied. So it’s hard not to feel pity for him wishing he could find someone else. Still the book is a wonderful tribute to not only a song but a folk tale bringing it to a beautiful lovely happy end instead!
This is a heartfelt love story shrouded in mystery and suspense. The romance is a little bit rocky quite cautionary and filled with danger which isn’t altogether bad. The writing has traces of gothic romanticism but still there is lightness and a whimsical nature to it so you don’t feel doomed throughout plus, the love between the characters is easily felt. There are quite a few time jumps making you wonder what happened during the time in between though. Raven the mystical amnesia heroine maintains that secrecy throughout. So everything about her is one big conundrum! Raven goes on nightly wanderings even though she doesn’t know it and even is able to show her feelings for Devan while in this state; of course it never tells us if she is actually sleepwalking but maybe it’s nicer to believe that she does. When she is fully awake she denies him and refuses to marry him which just makes us angry and despise her no matter if she is just trying to save him from maybe herself, we never truly know? Plus, we never truly trust Raven and get the sense that she will leave Devan anyway. Devan the brooding irate hero is a little bit better even changing from a mean miserly guy to a more pleasant person and at least tries to show his love even though he keeps getting denied. So it’s hard not to feel pity for him wishing he could find someone else. Still the book is a wonderful tribute to not only a song but a folk tale bringing it to a beautiful lovely happy end instead!
March 3, 2020
You blessed me with a copy on January 9 and I’m sorry I took so long to finish it. I finished it tonight and I absolutely loved it. It’s a new genre for and you made me a believer. It’s romantic, edgy, and mysterious. It kept you guessing until the end. A love story that was a roller coaster and also exciting. Thanks for introducing me to a new genre and looking forward to reading more of your books.
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