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Daughters of Avalon #1
The King's Favorite
The eldest of five daughters born to King Henry’s mistress, Elspeth fears she and her sisters will be used as pawns in the wars to come. When her sisters are wrenched from the Blak Montayne Priory that has sheltered them since Henry’s death, Elspeth alone escapes, only to find herself indebted to, of all men, a Scotsman, whose loyalties are in question…
Left to face the wrath of a new sovereign, Malcom MacKinnon must swear fealty to Stephen of Blois in order to keep the demesne he won through the slaying of his own grandsire. But if he does so, he shall pit himself against Scotland, and even his own sire. Yet even as he realizes there is no turning back, his beautiful charge may offer him more than he anticipated. Will giving in to his passion bring nations to war?
Left to face the wrath of a new sovereign, Malcom MacKinnon must swear fealty to Stephen of Blois in order to keep the demesne he won through the slaying of his own grandsire. But if he does so, he shall pit himself against Scotland, and even his own sire. Yet even as he realizes there is no turning back, his beautiful charge may offer him more than he anticipated. Will giving in to his passion bring nations to war?
333 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 26, 2018
4651 people are currently reading
2861 people want to read
About the author
Tanya Anne Crosby
158 books1,148 followersTanya Anne Crosby is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of thirty novels. She has been featured in magazines, such as People, Romantic Times and Publisher’s Weekly, and her books have been translated into eight languages. Her first novel was published in 1992 by Avon Books, where Tanya was hailed as “one of Avon’s fastest rising stars.” Her fourth book was chosen to launch the company’s Avon Romantic Treasure imprint.
Known for stories charged with emotion and humor and filled with flawed characters Tanya is an award-winning author, journalist, and editor, and her novels have garnered reader praise and glowing critical reviews. She and her writer husband split their time between Charleston, SC, where she was raised, and northern Michigan, where the couple make their home.
Known for stories charged with emotion and humor and filled with flawed characters Tanya is an award-winning author, journalist, and editor, and her novels have garnered reader praise and glowing critical reviews. She and her writer husband split their time between Charleston, SC, where she was raised, and northern Michigan, where the couple make their home.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
March 21, 2022
Another book with a cringe-worthy cover... *shudders*
I have to say, I was extremely irked with the author's portrayal of the nobility as people who just went about making deals with each other for the sake of making deals with each other. I'm sure this was not the author's intent but it came across like that and I can't help but think that probably, likely, sure the motivations were much moreprofound and meaningful and were a necessity in those times, since had there been no ties that we could've called prediplomatic today, it would've been total war nonstop, then.
Another thing that paradoxically was irritating, was the sprinkling of real life, historical heroes along with the make believe ones. I love the period, the empresse Matilda, the whole shebang of the tie for the throne and all the real woes that went package with it but... BUT seeing Elspeth and the rest of her sisters as Matilda's halfsisters made me want to roll my eyes so much more. I was like, of and so it was the threefold law that precluded them from getting their sis on the throne and getting rid of competitors? I don't believe that.
The characters were quite a bit immature and irritating and their antics left much space for improvement but then again that's just me not being in the right mood for the genre. Overall, it was a swift read with a lot of entertainment value.
I have to say, I was extremely irked with the author's portrayal of the nobility as people who just went about making deals with each other for the sake of making deals with each other. I'm sure this was not the author's intent but it came across like that and I can't help but think that probably, likely, sure the motivations were much moreprofound and meaningful and were a necessity in those times, since had there been no ties that we could've called prediplomatic today, it would've been total war nonstop, then.
Another thing that paradoxically was irritating, was the sprinkling of real life, historical heroes along with the make believe ones. I love the period, the empresse Matilda, the whole shebang of the tie for the throne and all the real woes that went package with it but... BUT seeing Elspeth and the rest of her sisters as Matilda's halfsisters made me want to roll my eyes so much more. I was like, of and so it was the threefold law that precluded them from getting their sis on the throne and getting rid of competitors? I don't believe that.
The characters were quite a bit immature and irritating and their antics left much space for improvement but then again that's just me not being in the right mood for the genre. Overall, it was a swift read with a lot of entertainment value.
August 4, 2018
I received a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway and it has not affected my review.
I was surprised that this book was the first in a series, as there was so much going on. There's a lot of detail and complicated relationships. It took me a while to get into this book because of that. But it's an epic historical romance with a bit of the paranormal (the sisters all have some white magic, and their evil mother uses black magic), and I think fans of medieval romance will really enjoy it, even if it wasn't really my thing.
I was surprised that this book was the first in a series, as there was so much going on. There's a lot of detail and complicated relationships. It took me a while to get into this book because of that. But it's an epic historical romance with a bit of the paranormal (the sisters all have some white magic, and their evil mother uses black magic), and I think fans of medieval romance will really enjoy it, even if it wasn't really my thing.
July 3, 2018
The King's Favorite (Daughters of Avalon Book 1) by Tanya Anne Crosby is a riveting new series, with bold characters and a suspenseful storyline. Her multi-dimensional characters and rich, detailed story lines will pull the reader into her story and hold them in complete and utter awesomeness.
Fast paced, well crafted and intriguing story. The characters are fantastic, charming and engaging. The storyline will capture your attention and hold you in awe as you follow Elspeth Pendragon, the late King's favorite illegitimate daughter and Malcom Ceann Ràs, aka Malcom Scott, the new laird to his grandfather's castle.
Filled with tense moments, suspense, mystery, romance, betrayal, possible treason, secrets and the power of true love.
Beautifully and superbly written! I can hardly wait for book 2, "A Winter's Rose (Rosalynde's, story). Rosalynde is one of Elspeth's sister's, each sister has a special "gift". Another must read by the very talented Tanya Anne Crosby! Strongly recommended to fans of Historical Romance, Historical fiction, romance that will keep you turning pages and on the edge of your seat. Captivating with a beautiful Romance.
Rating: 5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewer: AprilR
Fast paced, well crafted and intriguing story. The characters are fantastic, charming and engaging. The storyline will capture your attention and hold you in awe as you follow Elspeth Pendragon, the late King's favorite illegitimate daughter and Malcom Ceann Ràs, aka Malcom Scott, the new laird to his grandfather's castle.
Filled with tense moments, suspense, mystery, romance, betrayal, possible treason, secrets and the power of true love.
Beautifully and superbly written! I can hardly wait for book 2, "A Winter's Rose (Rosalynde's, story). Rosalynde is one of Elspeth's sister's, each sister has a special "gift". Another must read by the very talented Tanya Anne Crosby! Strongly recommended to fans of Historical Romance, Historical fiction, romance that will keep you turning pages and on the edge of your seat. Captivating with a beautiful Romance.
Rating: 5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewer: AprilR
July 19, 2018
Didn't know what to expect going into this one, entered to win because it looked interesting and then saw it recommended on a few blogs I follow. So when I won I was excited but guarded... I hate being disappointed. Happy note, I really enjoyed this story! this was a first read for me by this author so I had no background from the previous series, I didn't feel lost. After exploring the writer and seeing the other series I can see where it may have enriched the story having that background knowledge (revisiting old characters, making connections that sort of thing) and it may have helped me to understand Malcolm a little better but all in all I am content with how I read it.
I loved Elspeth's character, her sweet nature and strong love was refreshing. She had an innocence that called to me as a reader. I enjoyed Malcolm and Elspeth's journey together and look forward to the other sister's story and continuation of this arc.
I loved Elspeth's character, her sweet nature and strong love was refreshing. She had an innocence that called to me as a reader. I enjoyed Malcolm and Elspeth's journey together and look forward to the other sister's story and continuation of this arc.
June 17, 2018
Okay, I can't say that I didn't put the book down because I did. For several days. Honestly? A couple of pages in, my heart was broken. I was so upset about the things that I read there about sweet little Malcolm (at least, once upon a time in another book he was sweet and little), that it took me some days to get over it and read on. And then I barely put it down anymore because it was so good!
What I really love about the books by this author, is her manner of weaving a story by combining historical facts with a brilliant and captivating story, lots of romance and a healthy dose of myth. I loved the vivid picture of a country torn by war and conflicting loyalties, of people having to face their own kin on the battlefield and I also loved the amazing and unique characters and their story. Elspeth and her sisters soon found a place in my heart and I felt with them but also feared for them and wondered about their mother's ruthlessness and her power. Especially her power. Her mother was set apart, not only by her actions and her thoughts but also because she was the only one whose part is told in the first person. Immediately, every time you stumble upon her parts, you are on guard and fear what new atrocities will be revealed. Along with our hero and our heroine, you learn to hate and to fear Morwen - and this was just the beginning.
I loved how Malcolm and Elspeth fell for each other. Despite the sudden and definitely quick manner of their...well...kind-of-not-really-courtship, you can feel that those two belong together and that they care a lot for each other. Elspeth is so sweet and Malcolm's devotion to her and his calm acceptance of her uniqueness and her power are simply amazing.
Such a beautiful and amazing book, I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
What I really love about the books by this author, is her manner of weaving a story by combining historical facts with a brilliant and captivating story, lots of romance and a healthy dose of myth. I loved the vivid picture of a country torn by war and conflicting loyalties, of people having to face their own kin on the battlefield and I also loved the amazing and unique characters and their story. Elspeth and her sisters soon found a place in my heart and I felt with them but also feared for them and wondered about their mother's ruthlessness and her power. Especially her power. Her mother was set apart, not only by her actions and her thoughts but also because she was the only one whose part is told in the first person. Immediately, every time you stumble upon her parts, you are on guard and fear what new atrocities will be revealed. Along with our hero and our heroine, you learn to hate and to fear Morwen - and this was just the beginning.
I loved how Malcolm and Elspeth fell for each other. Despite the sudden and definitely quick manner of their...well...kind-of-not-really-courtship, you can feel that those two belong together and that they care a lot for each other. Elspeth is so sweet and Malcolm's devotion to her and his calm acceptance of her uniqueness and her power are simply amazing.
Such a beautiful and amazing book, I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
July 12, 2018
Book: The King’s Favorite
By Tanya Anne Crosby
Series: Daughters of Avalon, Book 1
Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook (of)
Tartan Book Reviews
Purple Tulip Book Reviews
Celtic Barb’s Tartan Book Review Blog
Heat Rating: Sweet, loving and passionate🔥
Overall rating: 5 Stars/ 5 Kilts
Llanthony Priory, Wales
Late summer, 1148
I have been waiting for this novel since 1992 just needed Malcom to grow up. This novel ties in with (The MacKinnon Bride) book #1 in the {Highland Bride Series}. As the swoon worthy hero is all grown up now. He was a young child who had been kidnapped by his Grandsire and King Henry in The MacKinnon’s Bride Book. Now Malcom Scott, son of Laird Iain MacKinnon is all grown up and has inherited his own title and castle . This is through his step-mother Page the only mother he has ever known. He got his evil dead Grandsire’s title and castle through Page his only living heir.
This series the daughters of Avalon is also about five Pendragon sisters Elspeth, Rhiannon, Rosalynde, Seren and Arwyn. All who have been living in exile most of their lives. They are all King Henry’s illegitimate daughters. Due to their jealous, powerful, spiteful and extremely hateful mother Morwen. In addition they all have inherited some form of witchcraft. Yet they know they must keep this secret or it could end badly for all of them. As this is the time where people still fear witches, supernatural female beings, by burning at the stake or worse.
Of course their evil mother has just been biding her time, to make matches to powerful evil men who will support their sister, the powerful empress Matilda. A mother who betrayed her own sweet mother and stole their Blackwood inheritance has rarely seen them since abandoning them and basically making them prisoners of the priory. Plus it is so isolated with all the religious creepy clergy who fear and detest the sisters and their supernatural powers. Now the first match was decided for eldest sister Elspeth. It is to a horrific, evil influential man who is no more than an assassin. Yet he is the new lord of Blackwood. Yes it would give Elspeth a title but not the life she wants.
The sisters all decided Elspeth must runaway! She decides to steal Merry Balls yet is captured by Malcom in Wales. She and her sisters realize she needs a champion too. Yet the attraction soon grows, stronger though Malcom knows Elspeth is running away away and has many secrets. Yet she is an answer to betrothal problem he has too. What will he do once Elspeth truth is revealed? Abandon Elspeth or protect her? Plus the relationship between Malcom and his father is extremely abominable and wretched! As Malcom has bent his knee to an English King and slaughtering his own people in battle. He and his father Iain haven't spoken in a decade which is absolutely heartbreaking too!
This book is a complete masterpiece from start to finish. It has all the elements Scottish historical readers love. Plus it weaves true royal historical figures in history with a fictional sweet caring and loving couple. Fast paced, non-stop action, delightful adventure, family feuding, enchanting romance plus magical spellbinding origins. The setting left me breathless, the dialogue was brilliant and the plotting and characters was absolute perfection! I personally loved seeing some of my favorite characters from The Highland Bride series too! This book was absolute perfection in my opinion and think Tanya Anne Crosby fans will love going on this book journey as much as I did! Plus beautifully written showing love is the answer to true magic!
I highly recommend “The King’s Favorite” by Tanya Anne Crosby as I have been reading her novels for over 26 years. I still find her books exciting, exhilarating and phenomenal! A total masterpiece and a great reality escape for me personally. I can't wait for the next book in “The Daughters of Avalon” series.
I was gifted this ARC from the author. I voluntarily agreed to read, give honest review and blog this book. All opinions, ideas, words and thoughts are my own.
Buy Links From Amazon, Kobo, Barnes and Noble and iBooks
The King's Favorite (Daughters of Avalon): Tanya Anne Crosby …
https://www.amazon.com/Kings-Favorite...
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-...
https://m.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-ki...
https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/the-...
The Daughters of Avalon Series by Tanya Anne Crosby
1: The King's Favorite (Elspeth's story) 2: A Winter's Rose (Rosalynde's story) 3: Rhiannon
4: Seren's Story (Untitled)
5: Arwyn's story (Untitled)
L
By Tanya Anne Crosby
Series: Daughters of Avalon, Book 1
Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook (of)
Tartan Book Reviews
Purple Tulip Book Reviews
Celtic Barb’s Tartan Book Review Blog
Heat Rating: Sweet, loving and passionate🔥
Overall rating: 5 Stars/ 5 Kilts
Llanthony Priory, Wales
Late summer, 1148
I have been waiting for this novel since 1992 just needed Malcom to grow up. This novel ties in with (The MacKinnon Bride) book #1 in the {Highland Bride Series}. As the swoon worthy hero is all grown up now. He was a young child who had been kidnapped by his Grandsire and King Henry in The MacKinnon’s Bride Book. Now Malcom Scott, son of Laird Iain MacKinnon is all grown up and has inherited his own title and castle . This is through his step-mother Page the only mother he has ever known. He got his evil dead Grandsire’s title and castle through Page his only living heir.
This series the daughters of Avalon is also about five Pendragon sisters Elspeth, Rhiannon, Rosalynde, Seren and Arwyn. All who have been living in exile most of their lives. They are all King Henry’s illegitimate daughters. Due to their jealous, powerful, spiteful and extremely hateful mother Morwen. In addition they all have inherited some form of witchcraft. Yet they know they must keep this secret or it could end badly for all of them. As this is the time where people still fear witches, supernatural female beings, by burning at the stake or worse.
Of course their evil mother has just been biding her time, to make matches to powerful evil men who will support their sister, the powerful empress Matilda. A mother who betrayed her own sweet mother and stole their Blackwood inheritance has rarely seen them since abandoning them and basically making them prisoners of the priory. Plus it is so isolated with all the religious creepy clergy who fear and detest the sisters and their supernatural powers. Now the first match was decided for eldest sister Elspeth. It is to a horrific, evil influential man who is no more than an assassin. Yet he is the new lord of Blackwood. Yes it would give Elspeth a title but not the life she wants.
The sisters all decided Elspeth must runaway! She decides to steal Merry Balls yet is captured by Malcom in Wales. She and her sisters realize she needs a champion too. Yet the attraction soon grows, stronger though Malcom knows Elspeth is running away away and has many secrets. Yet she is an answer to betrothal problem he has too. What will he do once Elspeth truth is revealed? Abandon Elspeth or protect her? Plus the relationship between Malcom and his father is extremely abominable and wretched! As Malcom has bent his knee to an English King and slaughtering his own people in battle. He and his father Iain haven't spoken in a decade which is absolutely heartbreaking too!
This book is a complete masterpiece from start to finish. It has all the elements Scottish historical readers love. Plus it weaves true royal historical figures in history with a fictional sweet caring and loving couple. Fast paced, non-stop action, delightful adventure, family feuding, enchanting romance plus magical spellbinding origins. The setting left me breathless, the dialogue was brilliant and the plotting and characters was absolute perfection! I personally loved seeing some of my favorite characters from The Highland Bride series too! This book was absolute perfection in my opinion and think Tanya Anne Crosby fans will love going on this book journey as much as I did! Plus beautifully written showing love is the answer to true magic!
I highly recommend “The King’s Favorite” by Tanya Anne Crosby as I have been reading her novels for over 26 years. I still find her books exciting, exhilarating and phenomenal! A total masterpiece and a great reality escape for me personally. I can't wait for the next book in “The Daughters of Avalon” series.
I was gifted this ARC from the author. I voluntarily agreed to read, give honest review and blog this book. All opinions, ideas, words and thoughts are my own.
Buy Links From Amazon, Kobo, Barnes and Noble and iBooks
The King's Favorite (Daughters of Avalon): Tanya Anne Crosby …
https://www.amazon.com/Kings-Favorite...
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-...
https://m.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-ki...
https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/the-...
The Daughters of Avalon Series by Tanya Anne Crosby
1: The King's Favorite (Elspeth's story) 2: A Winter's Rose (Rosalynde's story) 3: Rhiannon
4: Seren's Story (Untitled)
5: Arwyn's story (Untitled)
L
September 22, 2024
DNF @ 26%
I had to re check the series to see if I was reading the first book. There was so much backstory with such little context I was so lost.
I had to re check the series to see if I was reading the first book. There was so much backstory with such little context I was so lost.
July 26, 2023
Once again I was forced to read Welsh
June 15, 2018
This was an EPIC read! Be prepared to sacrifice sleep for this story – I did. There are so many devious twists and turns in this plot that you never know who to trust. This was well written with so much descriptive detail I felt that I was a living bystander in the story!
Elspeth is one of five ilegitamate daughters to the now deceased King Henry by his very devious mistress Morwen. A woman so power hungry she’ll use her daughters in advantageous marriages to control the realm. Morwen is so evil and with the blackest of hearts she will stop at nothing to achieve her goals even use Magic.
Malcolm MacKinnon is the new Kings man sent to expose a traitor when Elspeth literally falls into his lap! He’s immediately attracted to her and vows to keep her safe even if it means to go against the new kings orders! This was such an action packed read I was entranced from the very first page! Tanya Anne Crosby is an extremely gifted author, her stories come to life right in front of your eyes!
I highly recommend this new book you will not be disappointed!
I recieved a complimentary copy from the author. This is my honest unbiased opinion.
Elspeth is one of five ilegitamate daughters to the now deceased King Henry by his very devious mistress Morwen. A woman so power hungry she’ll use her daughters in advantageous marriages to control the realm. Morwen is so evil and with the blackest of hearts she will stop at nothing to achieve her goals even use Magic.
Malcolm MacKinnon is the new Kings man sent to expose a traitor when Elspeth literally falls into his lap! He’s immediately attracted to her and vows to keep her safe even if it means to go against the new kings orders! This was such an action packed read I was entranced from the very first page! Tanya Anne Crosby is an extremely gifted author, her stories come to life right in front of your eyes!
I highly recommend this new book you will not be disappointed!
I recieved a complimentary copy from the author. This is my honest unbiased opinion.
June 29, 2018
Wonderful beginning for a new series!
Loved it! Took me a bit before I realised this was Pages step son! I love it when books and families are linked! Although it is a stand alone novel, you get a richness and depth to the story if you've read Tanya's other books. Great start! I can't wait to see where it goes! Wonderful read!
Loved it! Took me a bit before I realised this was Pages step son! I love it when books and families are linked! Although it is a stand alone novel, you get a richness and depth to the story if you've read Tanya's other books. Great start! I can't wait to see where it goes! Wonderful read!
June 27, 2018
Elspeth and her sisters are the illegitimate daughters of dead, King Henry, and have been kept in a monastery for years. Elspeth the oldest of the sister fears they will all be used as pawns in their Mother’s games as her pawns to gain power. Morwen, their mom just happens to be an evil witch with plans of her own for her off spring, so the sister decide to help Elspeth to escape. They believe Elspeth’s “gift” can help their sister Matilde win the throne.
Not wanting to face the wrath of a new sovereign, Malcolm MacKinnon has swears his fealty to Stephen of Blois in order to keep the demesne he won by slaying his grandfather and also putting himself against Scotia and his father. Malcom comes to her rescue, Elspeth soon feels he’s been sent by her sister to champion her. Little does Malcom know what he’s gotten himself into or what trouble is riding with him. He soon realizes there is no turning back and his bartered bride may offer him a chance to atone for past sins. Loved this story and the history that is so elegantly woven through this story where the characters come to life as we love Malcom and Elspeth and we learn to hate and to fear Morwen and her evil powers. This is my honest opinions after I voluntarily read a copy of this book that was provided to me with no requirements for a review.
Not wanting to face the wrath of a new sovereign, Malcolm MacKinnon has swears his fealty to Stephen of Blois in order to keep the demesne he won by slaying his grandfather and also putting himself against Scotia and his father. Malcom comes to her rescue, Elspeth soon feels he’s been sent by her sister to champion her. Little does Malcom know what he’s gotten himself into or what trouble is riding with him. He soon realizes there is no turning back and his bartered bride may offer him a chance to atone for past sins. Loved this story and the history that is so elegantly woven through this story where the characters come to life as we love Malcom and Elspeth and we learn to hate and to fear Morwen and her evil powers. This is my honest opinions after I voluntarily read a copy of this book that was provided to me with no requirements for a review.
June 26, 2018
Elspeth and her sisters are the illegitimate daughters of dead, King Henry, and have been kept in a monastery for years. Now their mother who is once again the mistress of the King, has found a use for them. If she can punish them at the same time, that is a bonus.
Mother and daughters are all "Daughters of Avalon" and have special powers. The mother is extremely dangerous and evil. The girls are innocent and are not used to using their growing powers.
The time has come for a showdown. The throne and many lives are at stake.
Malcom MacKinnon is on special assignment for King Steven. Many years before Malcom went against the wishes and politics of his family, mainly so that he could claim his childhood home as his own.
A young woman running from someone is about to turn his life upside down. Danger, he is used to facing but there is something strange is happening that will cause him to question everything he has ever believed.
A magical story with fabulous characters, and lots of excitement. This is the first in the series and although you can read it on it's own , it will make you want to read the next. I think you will have to read them in order. A nice thick book that gives you plenty of time to get stuck in.
Mother and daughters are all "Daughters of Avalon" and have special powers. The mother is extremely dangerous and evil. The girls are innocent and are not used to using their growing powers.
The time has come for a showdown. The throne and many lives are at stake.
Malcom MacKinnon is on special assignment for King Steven. Many years before Malcom went against the wishes and politics of his family, mainly so that he could claim his childhood home as his own.
A young woman running from someone is about to turn his life upside down. Danger, he is used to facing but there is something strange is happening that will cause him to question everything he has ever believed.
A magical story with fabulous characters, and lots of excitement. This is the first in the series and although you can read it on it's own , it will make you want to read the next. I think you will have to read them in order. A nice thick book that gives you plenty of time to get stuck in.
June 26, 2018
Fearing her "gifts" will be used to defeat her sister Matilda, Elspeth Pendragon escapes the Black Mountain priory that has sheltered her and her sisters since their father's death, only to find herself indebted to, of all men, a Scotsman, whose loyalties are in question. Left to face the wrath of a new sovereign, Malcom Scott is forced to swear fealty to Stephen of Blois in order to keep the castle he won by slaying his own grandfather. But having done that, he's pitted himself against Scotia, and even his own sire. But even as he realizes there's no turning back, the late King's favorite illegitimate daughter may offer him more than he ever anticipated. Elspeth and Malcom are so very different in their beliefs. Elspeth has a very dangerous secret that she keeps. They have a lot of hurdles to overcome in order to find love. Elspeth is the eldest daughter of the dead King Henry and his mistress, the witch Morwen. Her and her sisters have been ignored by their mother their whole life until now. Morwen plans on using them as her pawns to gain power. What a great story this was. I enjoyed the characters and all of the mystical majik! I can’t wait for the next book in the series. Definitely a must read. Tanya Anne Crosby has definitely done it again! Wonderful!
June 21, 2018
Elspeth is the eldest of five illegitimate daughters of a dead english king. These girls, each who have mystical gifts inherited from the female line of their ancestors, have been sequestered at an out of the way priory since they were children by their mother. Sensing that old “mom”, who, just happens to be an evil witch who gives new meaning to the phrase “she’s had a little work done”, has something nasty in store for Elspeth, the sisters urge her to flee the priory. While on the run, she happens upon Malcom, an earl who is a special assassin for the current king of England, and he agrees to help her in her escape, but he has no real idea of what trouble he has now brought down upon himself.
Their flight is infused with danger, intrigue, dark magic, and war amidst their growing attraction and need for each other. Elspeth needs to know if their meeting is fate, or the result of something darker.
This is the first in a new series, although Malcom was a character as a young boy and man in two previous novels by this author, both well worth reading. This story has a combination of ancient history and folklore which made it immensely entertaining and the romance between Elspeth and Malcom was the icing on the cake.
I am looking forward to the future books in this series.
I read this as an arc which affected my review in no way at all.
June 27, 2018
I am so happy this author has returned with a brand new series with a character from a past tale. Malcolm and Elspeth both have very intriguing things that have happened in their lives. Each have secrets. There is danger, intrigue a bit of mystic and a developing love. This for me, is a series that will give me hours of enjoyment. I look forward to the other sister's stories. Everyone has explained the plot and I just want to say how this story drew me in. In was because of this talented author's ability to make you want to continue turning the pages to find out more.
October 10, 2019
I actually quite liked this, though I was a bit confused at the beginning with who was who as I didn't realize it was a spin off from another series. Generally I don't like regency type books but the witchcraft and not too much of the social protocol stuff it was enjoyable. I will say the sex scenes were a bit dull though but that's fine it's just not that kind of book and "they made love" will suffice
June 27, 2018
At last, the start of another epic series The Daughters of Avalon, by the weaver of tales Tanya Anne Crosby, and we are transported into a time when magic was abound, Elspeth and her sister's each have a power and in this series we will follow them as each sister's gift grows and gets stronger.
This is Elspeth and Malcolm's story and is one fabulous read, I loved it and could not put it down. I can't wait for the next one.
I received a copy and I am voluntarily leaving my own honest opinion
This is Elspeth and Malcolm's story and is one fabulous read, I loved it and could not put it down. I can't wait for the next one.
I received a copy and I am voluntarily leaving my own honest opinion
June 24, 2018
An incredible read! The way the author weaves history into the story is like no other.
This story started off very sad, as the characters were well known from another of Ms Crosby's series, but gladly I can say there is a HEA for more than just the couple. And the couple, Malcom and Elspeth, oh the couple! They are such caring people, that they worry over others before themselves. If you, in any way, enjoy a good story, fantasy, romance or HEAs - this book is for you.
This story started off very sad, as the characters were well known from another of Ms Crosby's series, but gladly I can say there is a HEA for more than just the couple. And the couple, Malcom and Elspeth, oh the couple! They are such caring people, that they worry over others before themselves. If you, in any way, enjoy a good story, fantasy, romance or HEAs - this book is for you.
December 29, 2019
I rate this book a 5 because it was a. Surprisingly good read.
Three good friends . The moral values and compassion were good. Plenty of humor and
Enough drama to keep me interested.
Three good friends . The moral values and compassion were good. Plenty of humor and
Enough drama to keep me interested.
June 17, 2018
A great twist on the legend of the Pendragons, this story goes forward in time to tell the tale of Malcolm and Elspeth. Set in the time of the warring factions of Stephen and Matilda, falling in love is the least of their worries! The lingering doubt for Elspeth of “Is it love or is it Majik”, thanks to her sister, Rhiannon, was a nice twist to the romance.
I loved the interspersed mysticism, the love of the sisters, the evilness of the villain and the way the author so expertly tied everything together to make a very interesting and intriguing read. And, I must admit, I am thrilled that this is the first in a new series.
I loved the interspersed mysticism, the love of the sisters, the evilness of the villain and the way the author so expertly tied everything together to make a very interesting and intriguing read. And, I must admit, I am thrilled that this is the first in a new series.
January 27, 2019
Witch Or Not?
The Daughters Of Avalon started with 5 sisters held captive for years at the command of their very evil witch mother. She had her own agenda to use them as pawns when they came of age to further her political career. She was determined she would rule England one day. King Henry was their father, but he died without knowing where they were and they suspected she killed him.
The only daughter not his biologically (even though he never knew) was the child of incest of sister and brother and both were of a strong witch grandmother so she had a extra strong bond of witchcraft. She knew her and her sisters lives were about to take a drastic change for the worst.
She arranged Elspeth's escape at the same time Malcolm was traveling through the woods where Elspeth would hide until he came and rescued her. She saw the future love they would share and knew Elspeth was the key to all of their futures. It was vital she escape before their mother stopped Elspeth and forced a marriage they didn't want to happen.
Malcolm didn't know why he felt compelled to rescue her, but was determined to keep her safe even though he had no idea who or what she was. Surprisingly he was not turned away by her witch acts that saved them even though she was sure he would be. His love for her trumped all such problems.
The Daughters Of Avalon started with 5 sisters held captive for years at the command of their very evil witch mother. She had her own agenda to use them as pawns when they came of age to further her political career. She was determined she would rule England one day. King Henry was their father, but he died without knowing where they were and they suspected she killed him.
The only daughter not his biologically (even though he never knew) was the child of incest of sister and brother and both were of a strong witch grandmother so she had a extra strong bond of witchcraft. She knew her and her sisters lives were about to take a drastic change for the worst.
She arranged Elspeth's escape at the same time Malcolm was traveling through the woods where Elspeth would hide until he came and rescued her. She saw the future love they would share and knew Elspeth was the key to all of their futures. It was vital she escape before their mother stopped Elspeth and forced a marriage they didn't want to happen.
Malcolm didn't know why he felt compelled to rescue her, but was determined to keep her safe even though he had no idea who or what she was. Surprisingly he was not turned away by her witch acts that saved them even though she was sure he would be. His love for her trumped all such problems.
December 10, 2019
3.5 stars
A fun read, but really hard to get into in the beginning. So many names, so much politics - the world building was unwieldy. Several times I said 'huh?' in the beginning, while trying to understand all the various people and places. And I was about 20% into it before I realized that it's about a grown-up version of Malcom, the child in 'The MacKinnon's Bride.'
It's also evident that Crosby is a fan of GoT. We had the Red Wedding (thankfully without the massacre) and a version of the Red Woman amongst other things.
Cover: Lovely
Narrator: Terrific accents. His version of women was not as wonderful. This would be a good candidate for dual narration.
Hogwarts Sorting Hat: I'm kinda stumped on this one. I guess I'll sort Malcom into Slytherin and Elspeth into Gryffindor.
A fun read, but really hard to get into in the beginning. So many names, so much politics - the world building was unwieldy. Several times I said 'huh?' in the beginning, while trying to understand all the various people and places. And I was about 20% into it before I realized that it's about a grown-up version of Malcom, the child in 'The MacKinnon's Bride.'
It's also evident that Crosby is a fan of GoT. We had the Red Wedding (thankfully without the massacre) and a version of the Red Woman amongst other things.
Cover: Lovely
Narrator: Terrific accents. His version of women was not as wonderful. This would be a good candidate for dual narration.
Hogwarts Sorting Hat: I'm kinda stumped on this one. I guess I'll sort Malcom into Slytherin and Elspeth into Gryffindor.
January 4, 2019
If I could give double 5 stars I would. I had received the next book A Winter's Rose and couldn't at first place if I had read Malcome's story so Tanya suggested that I read it again plus Holly and Ivy, a 1.5 book of this series.I am so happy I did. Not only did I enjoy it the first time I really loved rereading it again!! For the whole enrichment of this series you really should start with McKinnons Bride for you then know the more stories of the characters in this one. This is a must read especially if you have been enjoying these series.
October 15, 2018
Slow to get started because author used SO MANY actual historical figures and ALL of their politics. At points it made it difficult to keep straight. Once the story really got rollin' though I could not put this book down. Loved it. Hate that I have to wait for the release of book 2, I want to tear through this series. So much potential for these wonderful characters.
January 25, 2019
I didn’t realise when I started this story that it was a paranormal and because this is not my usual genre I did find some parts of the novel difficult to comprehend. The history of the time is cleverly interwoven but I feel footnotes would have improved my understanding. Having said all the above I did enjoy the story.
March 3, 2020
DNF
The problem I have with this author is that the beginning of her books don’t draw readers in. She begins her books like she’s begun already somewhere else and doesn’t care about reacquainting the readers or helping us catch up. I was able to overlook it with the first of her books I read but this, I had to skip and then it didn’t make sense.
The problem I have with this author is that the beginning of her books don’t draw readers in. She begins her books like she’s begun already somewhere else and doesn’t care about reacquainting the readers or helping us catch up. I was able to overlook it with the first of her books I read but this, I had to skip and then it didn’t make sense.
November 13, 2018
A fascinating beginning to a new series. A man caught in the middle, a woman who has allegiance to make her his sworn enemy and a love to make their allegiance to each other make this an excellent story.
January 31, 2019
The King's Favorite
The beginning of a new series......Yes. I love the way this series is brought forth. The witchcraft, both good and evil, intertwined with romance and the settling of five sisters with the lives of their lives.
The beginning of a new series......Yes. I love the way this series is brought forth. The witchcraft, both good and evil, intertwined with romance and the settling of five sisters with the lives of their lives.
February 15, 2019
As usual, it looks as though this is going to be another of Tanya's SERIES I won't be able to stop reading. It took me longer than usual to finish BOOK 1, due other items in my life I needed to accomplish, getting done.
August 15, 2018
I enjoyed this book.
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