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Blood Brothers #1
The Wolf & the Witch
The three sons of a notorious mercenary should never have met…but now that they are sworn allies, the Scottish Borders will never be the same…
Denied his rightful legacy, Maximilian de Vries devised a plan to avenge himself upon his father and see his own future secured. Allied with his two forgotten half-brothers, he descends upon ancient and mysterious Kilderrick, determined to claim it at any price. A woman rumored to be a witch is the sole one bold enough to defy him but Maximilian has a solution—he will take her to wife, whether she be willing or nay, and seal his claim.
But this powerful warrior has yet to match wits with Alys Armstrong, a maiden with a thirst for vengeance and a fury that might exceed his own. Alys has no intention of capitulating to the proud and illegitimate son of the rogue who stole everything from her, and she does not share his avowed compulsion to fight fair.
Bitter enemies from the outset, Maximilian and Alys’ match is a battle of wills. When anger turns to passion, will either of them be able to resist temptation? And when Kilderrick itself is in peril, will they be able to join forces to save the unexpected love they have come to value above all else?
Denied his rightful legacy, Maximilian de Vries devised a plan to avenge himself upon his father and see his own future secured. Allied with his two forgotten half-brothers, he descends upon ancient and mysterious Kilderrick, determined to claim it at any price. A woman rumored to be a witch is the sole one bold enough to defy him but Maximilian has a solution—he will take her to wife, whether she be willing or nay, and seal his claim.
But this powerful warrior has yet to match wits with Alys Armstrong, a maiden with a thirst for vengeance and a fury that might exceed his own. Alys has no intention of capitulating to the proud and illegitimate son of the rogue who stole everything from her, and she does not share his avowed compulsion to fight fair.
Bitter enemies from the outset, Maximilian and Alys’ match is a battle of wills. When anger turns to passion, will either of them be able to resist temptation? And when Kilderrick itself is in peril, will they be able to join forces to save the unexpected love they have come to value above all else?
356 pages, Paperback
First published May 11, 2021
376 people are currently reading
584 people want to read
About the author
Claire Delacroix
123 books519 followersNew York Times bestselling author Claire Delacroix sold her first book in 1992, an historical romance called ROMANCE OF THE ROSE. Since then, she has published over sixty romance novels and novellas, and has also been published under the names Claire Cross and Deborah Cooke. She has an honours degree in history, with a focus on medieval studies. She is an avid reader of medieval vernacular literature, fairy tales and fantasy novels.
For books written under the pseudonym, Claire Cross, see:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
For books written under Claire's own name, Deborah Cooke, please see:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
In October and November 2009, she was the writer in residence for the Toronto Public Library, the first time that the library has hosted a residency focused on the romance genre.
Visit her two websites here:
http://www.delacroix.net
http://www.deborahcooke.com
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Subscribe to her monthly newsletter to keep up to date and receive special offers:
http://eepurl.com/reIuD
For books written under the pseudonym, Claire Cross, see:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
For books written under Claire's own name, Deborah Cooke, please see:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
In October and November 2009, she was the writer in residence for the Toronto Public Library, the first time that the library has hosted a residency focused on the romance genre.
Visit her two websites here:
http://www.delacroix.net
http://www.deborahcooke.com
Like her Facebook Fan Pages here:
http://www.facebook.com/AuthorClaireD...
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDebora...
Subscribe to her monthly newsletter to keep up to date and receive special offers:
http://eepurl.com/reIuD
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
May 7, 2021
My friends, I read this book in two days. This never happens anymore. I have a toddler. I have a million things that must be done. I need sleep (at least at some point). Nevertheless, I found every spare moment I had to return to reading about Alys and Maximilian. This was such a thrilling and engrossing story that hit all the right notes for me but still felt like it retained appropriate trappings for the time period. In a word, it was balanced.
I really enjoyed how Delacroix used various characters and their POVs to establish the characterization of her leads and how their past experiences had shaped them. I also felt like Delacroix used dialogue and character reflections to deftly reveal a lot of exposition to set up the series without feeling like I was just reading a dry recitation of what was going on. While I flew through pages and felt I HAD to keep reading to know what was happening, critical details were revealed in an unrushed pace and in particular, a detail about Alys really shocked me when it came to light but it made the story all the more interesting.
This is a true battle of wills story. There was so much push and pull as the characters recognized their physical attraction early on, but also realized that they made a good team and tentatively built some trust while also still hesitating to reveal all due to past loyalties, some misunderstandings, and a long history of betrayal for both. Nothing felt forced and I could feel the struggle with both and while I wanted to shake them sometimes it wasn't because it was stupid or forced--it was because to me it felt like a real struggle and I cared for both characters and I wanted to help them!
In addition, to me I thought it was going to be more of a road trip or lots of battle. However, this story didn't shape up like that at all and I loved it. Instead it focused on one keep, Kilderrick, and how a group of unlikely allies slowly fit into the new area while dealing with the locals, fighting the elements (and predators), understanding superstitions, and unlocking old mysteries. It was as much about how men without alliances or noble bloodlines survived as well as how independent women could use their wits against those stronger than them. It was gripping and so different from my cushy life with air conditioning and a grocery story that I found it to be fascinating to read about (and make me thank my lucky stars for my luxuries!)
And the romance to me felt very satisfying. Neither character expected to find love for various reasons. The heroine was an unexpected romantic but because of past betrayals didn't believe she could find it even though she wanted to. The hero had a horrible father and a mother ruined by a past crime so he didn't even know what love looked like though some part of him yearned for roots and stability since he'd never known them. The characters talk frankly with each other and make a good team despite themselves and I enjoyed the mutual respect for each other even when they had setbacks. They were well-matched and even though this book took place over a somewhat short period of time, a long term partnership still felt like the real deal for these two.
My only minor caveats were this: I did not understand the resolution to the "treasure" of Kilderrick bit and I did not understand the superstitions around Alys' father. Were they real or not? And finally, I do not know how Delacroix is going to redeem Rafael or Murdoch in their stories. Both did some pretty heinous things in this story, but hey, everyone likes redemption so you never know!
Now, while I **highly recommend** this story and, for friends who know me, Claire Delacroix in general, there are a few things that may not be for everyone, so I thought I'd lay those out here so you know what you're getting and can decide if it would work for you.
-I know there is a strong push for clearly written consent in romance today, and while I did not have a problem with this book at all, some may not like how this book starts. This is a hard time period and Maximilian is a mercenary. He is attracted to Alys for her spirit and also because he needs her to claim a holding. He doesn't give her much choice in the matter when it comes to the marriage or even starting physical intimacies (by this I mean kissing and an embrace). However, he never forces her to go further and lets her choose to continue, he never physically abuses her in any way, and he never has any thoughts that trivialize abuse of women. In fact, he is wholly against it and says as much and encourages Alys to continue challenging him. For me, it never felt forced (or like Stockholm syndrome) and I found myself enjoying their battle of wills because from both POVs I could see they enjoyed it too, but I know some are sensitive so know this going in.
-There is a lot going on in this book. There's a huge cast, many characters of whom will get their own book in this series, and many POVs. For those who've read the Champions of St. Euphemia series, it is set up a lot like that where the characters start a journey together and then branch off into their own adventures. I loved it and thought it was exceedingly well-plotted, but not all like their romances to be more of a world building story and have a taste for a story focused entirely on the romantic leads. However, this story is a little longer than most (120k words versus the typical 85-95k) so I did not feel the central romance suffered at all as they still had plenty of page time.
-There were some plot threads that are "cliff hangers" of sorts as I think they will be resolved in later books. However, the central romance did have a solid ending though with possibilities for us to be able to check in on them (hopefully) as the series develops.
Those are the only items I can think of at the moment. I found this book to be entirely engrossing and enjoyable with just enough tension to keep me interested and will most definitely be continuing the series. Highly recommended as an excellent series starter or a place to start your love affair with Claire Delacroix books in general.
I did receive an ARC of this story to review. However, the opinions are all me :) I'm so pleased I got to read it early and rave about it for all future readers.
I really enjoyed how Delacroix used various characters and their POVs to establish the characterization of her leads and how their past experiences had shaped them. I also felt like Delacroix used dialogue and character reflections to deftly reveal a lot of exposition to set up the series without feeling like I was just reading a dry recitation of what was going on. While I flew through pages and felt I HAD to keep reading to know what was happening, critical details were revealed in an unrushed pace and in particular, a detail about Alys really shocked me when it came to light but it made the story all the more interesting.
This is a true battle of wills story. There was so much push and pull as the characters recognized their physical attraction early on, but also realized that they made a good team and tentatively built some trust while also still hesitating to reveal all due to past loyalties, some misunderstandings, and a long history of betrayal for both. Nothing felt forced and I could feel the struggle with both and while I wanted to shake them sometimes it wasn't because it was stupid or forced--it was because to me it felt like a real struggle and I cared for both characters and I wanted to help them!
In addition, to me I thought it was going to be more of a road trip or lots of battle. However, this story didn't shape up like that at all and I loved it. Instead it focused on one keep, Kilderrick, and how a group of unlikely allies slowly fit into the new area while dealing with the locals, fighting the elements (and predators), understanding superstitions, and unlocking old mysteries. It was as much about how men without alliances or noble bloodlines survived as well as how independent women could use their wits against those stronger than them. It was gripping and so different from my cushy life with air conditioning and a grocery story that I found it to be fascinating to read about (and make me thank my lucky stars for my luxuries!)
And the romance to me felt very satisfying. Neither character expected to find love for various reasons. The heroine was an unexpected romantic but because of past betrayals didn't believe she could find it even though she wanted to. The hero had a horrible father and a mother ruined by a past crime so he didn't even know what love looked like though some part of him yearned for roots and stability since he'd never known them. The characters talk frankly with each other and make a good team despite themselves and I enjoyed the mutual respect for each other even when they had setbacks. They were well-matched and even though this book took place over a somewhat short period of time, a long term partnership still felt like the real deal for these two.
My only minor caveats were this: I did not understand the resolution to the "treasure" of Kilderrick bit and I did not understand the superstitions around Alys' father. Were they real or not? And finally, I do not know how Delacroix is going to redeem Rafael or Murdoch in their stories. Both did some pretty heinous things in this story, but hey, everyone likes redemption so you never know!
Now, while I **highly recommend** this story and, for friends who know me, Claire Delacroix in general, there are a few things that may not be for everyone, so I thought I'd lay those out here so you know what you're getting and can decide if it would work for you.
-I know there is a strong push for clearly written consent in romance today, and while I did not have a problem with this book at all, some may not like how this book starts. This is a hard time period and Maximilian is a mercenary. He is attracted to Alys for her spirit and also because he needs her to claim a holding. He doesn't give her much choice in the matter when it comes to the marriage or even starting physical intimacies (by this I mean kissing and an embrace). However, he never forces her to go further and lets her choose to continue, he never physically abuses her in any way, and he never has any thoughts that trivialize abuse of women. In fact, he is wholly against it and says as much and encourages Alys to continue challenging him. For me, it never felt forced (or like Stockholm syndrome) and I found myself enjoying their battle of wills because from both POVs I could see they enjoyed it too, but I know some are sensitive so know this going in.
-There is a lot going on in this book. There's a huge cast, many characters of whom will get their own book in this series, and many POVs. For those who've read the Champions of St. Euphemia series, it is set up a lot like that where the characters start a journey together and then branch off into their own adventures. I loved it and thought it was exceedingly well-plotted, but not all like their romances to be more of a world building story and have a taste for a story focused entirely on the romantic leads. However, this story is a little longer than most (120k words versus the typical 85-95k) so I did not feel the central romance suffered at all as they still had plenty of page time.
-There were some plot threads that are "cliff hangers" of sorts as I think they will be resolved in later books. However, the central romance did have a solid ending though with possibilities for us to be able to check in on them (hopefully) as the series develops.
Those are the only items I can think of at the moment. I found this book to be entirely engrossing and enjoyable with just enough tension to keep me interested and will most definitely be continuing the series. Highly recommended as an excellent series starter or a place to start your love affair with Claire Delacroix books in general.
I did receive an ARC of this story to review. However, the opinions are all me :) I'm so pleased I got to read it early and rave about it for all future readers.
July 8, 2021
This captivating, enemies-to-lovers novel wraps readers in a blanket of sexual tension that ignites one with heaps of passion and an unwavering sense of adventure.
Read full review in the 2021 Summer issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2021 Summer issue of InD'tale Magazine.
July 15, 2023
This is my first ever book review, so please be gentle with me.
(This is a review for the audiobook version narrated by Timothy Campbell.)
I wasn't sure what to expect from this author as I was unfamiliar with her work, but wow, was I happy I chose this book. The story starts off in France with the funeral of a very bad man where life-changing revelations are made. From there, we travel to Scotland where it becomes a battle of wits and wills between a group of knights and mercenaries and a small band of women who have been living on their own in the forest outside a ruined keep for years, with the women often being the victors. The central romance is solid and gets particularly swoon-worthy toward the end. Alys is strong, clever, loyal to her friends, and clearly able to take care of herself. Maximilian falls firmly in alpha territory but is ultimately honorable, quickly recognizes and values Alys’s strengths, looks past her scars and is hot for his lady wife.
The highlight for me was really the ensemble cast of characters and their interactions. There was humor well placed throughout the book with a couple of laugh out loud moments, though I wouldn't characterize this as a romp or a rom-com. Somehow this author made the story feel adventurous despite basically staying in one place for most of the book. She was also adept at planting the seeds of future relationships while keeping those scenes relevant to the current story.
Timothy Campbell is a new-to-me narrator and wow, wow, wow did he ever deliver! Many times throughout the book, he was juggling dialogue among a dozen characters with half a dozen accents, and he made it all seem effortless, as well as making it easy for me to follow. And the voice he gave Maximilian… well, you just have to hear it.
Of note, there is no actual witch in the story, though one secondary character does have visions of the future. There’s a reverse beauty and the beast vibe for those interested in that.
Overall, I thought it was a fantastic start to a new series and I'm eager to read the next books.
(This is a review for the audiobook version narrated by Timothy Campbell.)
I wasn't sure what to expect from this author as I was unfamiliar with her work, but wow, was I happy I chose this book. The story starts off in France with the funeral of a very bad man where life-changing revelations are made. From there, we travel to Scotland where it becomes a battle of wits and wills between a group of knights and mercenaries and a small band of women who have been living on their own in the forest outside a ruined keep for years, with the women often being the victors. The central romance is solid and gets particularly swoon-worthy toward the end. Alys is strong, clever, loyal to her friends, and clearly able to take care of herself. Maximilian falls firmly in alpha territory but is ultimately honorable, quickly recognizes and values Alys’s strengths, looks past her scars and is hot for his lady wife.
The highlight for me was really the ensemble cast of characters and their interactions. There was humor well placed throughout the book with a couple of laugh out loud moments, though I wouldn't characterize this as a romp or a rom-com. Somehow this author made the story feel adventurous despite basically staying in one place for most of the book. She was also adept at planting the seeds of future relationships while keeping those scenes relevant to the current story.
Timothy Campbell is a new-to-me narrator and wow, wow, wow did he ever deliver! Many times throughout the book, he was juggling dialogue among a dozen characters with half a dozen accents, and he made it all seem effortless, as well as making it easy for me to follow. And the voice he gave Maximilian… well, you just have to hear it.
Of note, there is no actual witch in the story, though one secondary character does have visions of the future. There’s a reverse beauty and the beast vibe for those interested in that.
Overall, I thought it was a fantastic start to a new series and I'm eager to read the next books.
November 21, 2023
Solid romance novel.
August 30, 2023
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What a story, so well written I was transported to Scotland. I could not put this one down. The characters, the atmosphere, the language. Absolutely loved it.
What a story, so well written I was transported to Scotland. I could not put this one down. The characters, the atmosphere, the language. Absolutely loved it.
January 17, 2026
I wish someone would write a believable story of enemies to lovers. Why would a woman who was disfigured due to burns on her face, hands and body because a man set fire to her home ever be attracted to said man in any way? It’s been 15 years of hating him yet when he comes back she marries him because “she had no choice.” Really? She did not have to say the vows! There was no knife to her throat. Why not refuse and be silent? He didn’t even apologize for his actions which resulted in her burns. And with only seeing his arrogance and believing him to be cruel and evil, how could she possibly enjoy his kiss and not be sickened by it. Why not kick, bite, and punch him when he tries to seduce her. If she is supposed to be smart, why would she fall for this seduction trap. How could she find his touch anything but repulsive. I hate it when the h is all tough as nails and smart but then instantly melts under the arrogant seduction of the H. UGH!!!
November 5, 2023
For much of this book i was left wondering if I was supposed to like The Silver Wolf, Maximilian.
Basically if you’re looking for a gritty and somewhat realistic historical drama complete with forced marriage, no communication between husband and wife and sexual assault written to be “sexy” then you might like this.
I would not classify this as a romance.
Basically if you’re looking for a gritty and somewhat realistic historical drama complete with forced marriage, no communication between husband and wife and sexual assault written to be “sexy” then you might like this.
I would not classify this as a romance.
October 18, 2023
I honestly thought from the title and the blurb that this was going to be a paranormal read. I'm not at all sad that it wasn't, but it was a bit of a surprise!
Instead, this is a powerful band-of-brothers, enemies-to-lovers story with a strong-willed hero and heroine and a large ensemble cast of fascinating secondary characters including Maximilian's half-brothers, and Aly's group of independent women who live in the woods.
Set in the 14th century the story revolves around a group of mercenaries securing a new life in Scotland, battling wits against a group of 'witches' who don't want them to remain in the area, and the trials of learning to settle in one place when your life has been spent roving and fighting. Maximilian is an incredibly nuanced character - fierce, quick-thinking and decisive as a leader but surprisingly thoughtful and tender when it comes to people he cares about. He sees Alys for everything she is, not flinching from the scarring which mars her face and parts of her body. Alys is intelligent, brave, bold, loyal to her comrades and more than capable of looking after herself, traits which Maximilian quickly recognises and appreciates, despite the frustrations Alys causes him.
This was a spellbinding story, set in an unusual time, with humour, intrigue and a little heat (though nothing steamy).
Instead, this is a powerful band-of-brothers, enemies-to-lovers story with a strong-willed hero and heroine and a large ensemble cast of fascinating secondary characters including Maximilian's half-brothers, and Aly's group of independent women who live in the woods.
Set in the 14th century the story revolves around a group of mercenaries securing a new life in Scotland, battling wits against a group of 'witches' who don't want them to remain in the area, and the trials of learning to settle in one place when your life has been spent roving and fighting. Maximilian is an incredibly nuanced character - fierce, quick-thinking and decisive as a leader but surprisingly thoughtful and tender when it comes to people he cares about. He sees Alys for everything she is, not flinching from the scarring which mars her face and parts of her body. Alys is intelligent, brave, bold, loyal to her comrades and more than capable of looking after herself, traits which Maximilian quickly recognises and appreciates, despite the frustrations Alys causes him.
This was a spellbinding story, set in an unusual time, with humour, intrigue and a little heat (though nothing steamy).
October 25, 2025
This is the first book in the Blood Brothers series by Clair DelaCroix. Maximilian de Vries is the Silver Wolf and illegitimate son of a notorious mercenary. Denied his rightful inheritance, he allied with his two half-brothers to claim the mysterious and crumbling estate of Kilderrick in the Scottish Borders. Alys Armstrong is a fierce woman rumored to be a witch and the true heir to Kilderrick. She’s determined to protect her home and avenge the wrongs done to her family. Maximilian decides to marry Alys despite her unwillingness to wed to solidify his claim. Alys and Maximilian's relationship romantic relationship begin to bloom with anger and desire. As danger looms and Kilderrick itself is threatened, Maximilian and Alys must decide whether to fight each other—or fight together for the love they never expected. This historical romance story is filled with grit, heart, and a dash of the supernatural. I really enjoyed this fantastic historical enemies-to-lovers romance novel.
November 12, 2025
This is the first book in the Blood Brothers series by Clair DelaCroix. Maximilian de Vries is the Silver Wolf and illegitimate son of a notorious mercenary. Denied his rightful inheritance, he allied with his two half-brothers to claim the mysterious and crumbling estate of Kilderrick in the Scottish Borders. Alys Armstrong is a fierce woman rumored to be a witch and the true heir to Kilderrick. She’s determined to protect her home and avenge the wrongs done to her family. Maximilian decides to marry Alys despite her unwillingness to wed to solidify his claim. Alys and Maximilian's relationship romantic relationship begin to bloom with anger and desire. As danger looms and Kilderrick itself is threatened, Maximilian and Alys must decide whether to fight each other—or fight together for the love they never expected. This historical romance story is filled with grit, heart, and a dash of the supernatural. I really enjoyed this fantastic historical enemies-to-lovers romance novel.
September 9, 2023
Disappointed
The ages of the two main characters were too old for the time period it is set in. The character of Rafael was poorly written if he's supposed to be the main character in his own book. I thought he was a good person until his words and reaction after the visit to the church. He said some pretty nasty words and his revenge using Alys made him untrustworthy as far as I am concerned. He came off as someone who gets pissy the minute he doesn't get his way and then strikes out at who he thinks is denying him, even if there was a good reason. I don't know how his character can be redeemed. Nyssa also seems to be all too unconcerned with killing innocent bystanders as long as killing the people she considers the enemy gets accomplished. I hope the books get better.
The ages of the two main characters were too old for the time period it is set in. The character of Rafael was poorly written if he's supposed to be the main character in his own book. I thought he was a good person until his words and reaction after the visit to the church. He said some pretty nasty words and his revenge using Alys made him untrustworthy as far as I am concerned. He came off as someone who gets pissy the minute he doesn't get his way and then strikes out at who he thinks is denying him, even if there was a good reason. I don't know how his character can be redeemed. Nyssa also seems to be all too unconcerned with killing innocent bystanders as long as killing the people she considers the enemy gets accomplished. I hope the books get better.
November 11, 2021
I loved all the books by Ms. Delacroix that I listened to so far and this is no different.
The story is not what appears at the beginning, it emerges in stages, with many twists and it was a delight to be on this journey with Maximilian and Alys to their HEA. At times I didn't think they will make it, but make it they did and then some. The characters will make you like, love or hate them, but all unforgettable. Loved the ending, left me with a happy heart.
Timothy Campbell is a new-to-me voice and oh so yummy, an 'eargasm' for sure, varied to reflect each character. My fave is the voice he gave Max, deep and rumbling. The voices given the female characters are equally good, without being sounding false. Looking forward to more.
The story is not what appears at the beginning, it emerges in stages, with many twists and it was a delight to be on this journey with Maximilian and Alys to their HEA. At times I didn't think they will make it, but make it they did and then some. The characters will make you like, love or hate them, but all unforgettable. Loved the ending, left me with a happy heart.
Timothy Campbell is a new-to-me voice and oh so yummy, an 'eargasm' for sure, varied to reflect each character. My fave is the voice he gave Max, deep and rumbling. The voices given the female characters are equally good, without being sounding false. Looking forward to more.
November 6, 2023
It was well written with good period detail and the language did not sound stilted (as sometimes happens in romances set in medieval times). The trouble with this one is that very little happened. They stayed camped in the same place day after day. A marriage was performed for dynastic and land reasons, but then the promising relationship fell prey to misunderstandings. (Why are there always such misunderstandings? Does no one ever ask about something they half overhear? Does no one ever just ignore information from suspect sources?) The bride's friends' antics are stupid and wouldn't last a day against seasoned warriors. Stuck in the forest. Day after day. With nothing else to do.
October 20, 2021
3 brothers.
Max is a mercenary and oldest son of a hated and feared mercenary. He is denied his inheritance and takes an unwanted property in Scotland. This property is in ruin because Max made it so 15 years prior. Alys is the only surviving heir to the property and Max plans to marry her to seal the deal as laird. They have a tumultuous relationship in the beginning but grow to realize they are much alike. This is an interesting story that gives a peak to future stories as these 3 brothers travel together.
Max is a mercenary and oldest son of a hated and feared mercenary. He is denied his inheritance and takes an unwanted property in Scotland. This property is in ruin because Max made it so 15 years prior. Alys is the only surviving heir to the property and Max plans to marry her to seal the deal as laird. They have a tumultuous relationship in the beginning but grow to realize they are much alike. This is an interesting story that gives a peak to future stories as these 3 brothers travel together.
December 11, 2022
I used to read a lot of Ms. Delacroix's books, but I somehow lost track in my massive TBR pile. I'm glad I picked this one up because it's a great story. Alys is thought to be a witch, but she's primarily intent on keeping away intruders from the ruins of her home. Maximilian is one of three brothers, and he has inherited the castle lands that he once conquered as a mercenary for his father. Alys's tricks and Max's attempts to thwart them make for an exciting story. Ms. Delacroix has always written great medieval romances and I'm glad I found her again.
February 14, 2022
Ridiculous
I just could not. I can't understand all thr 5 star ratings. They say she is a witch...yet has no powers at all. She falls in love with the man who killed her father, buring down her home, scared her as a result of the burning. Saying crap like...if I had known you were in the keep I would have saved you...but professing to making sure everyone was dead. What crap! So unreal.
I just could not. I can't understand all thr 5 star ratings. They say she is a witch...yet has no powers at all. She falls in love with the man who killed her father, buring down her home, scared her as a result of the burning. Saying crap like...if I had known you were in the keep I would have saved you...but professing to making sure everyone was dead. What crap! So unreal.
August 27, 2025
Exceptional!
I loved this story. Maximilian has hatred for his cruel father. When he was young his father sends him to Kilderrick to retrieve the treasure there, the laird there is a strange fellow following wicked ways. When Maximilian confronts the laird, a fire starts and he could not save him, little did he know when he left there it happened to have the 10 year old lairds daughter in the cellar.
I loved this story. Maximilian has hatred for his cruel father. When he was young his father sends him to Kilderrick to retrieve the treasure there, the laird there is a strange fellow following wicked ways. When Maximilian confronts the laird, a fire starts and he could not save him, little did he know when he left there it happened to have the 10 year old lairds daughter in the cellar.
March 15, 2022
Another reason I don't get that much sleep!
Just finished the first book in the Blood Brothers series. I thoroughly enjoyed it but I have to make new rules for myself, like no reading before bed since I cannot put the book down! Thank You Claire for another great book and the start of a new series!
Just finished the first book in the Blood Brothers series. I thoroughly enjoyed it but I have to make new rules for myself, like no reading before bed since I cannot put the book down! Thank You Claire for another great book and the start of a new series!
October 7, 2023
A spell binding read
The characters are so engaging. You love them one moment and hate them the next. Point of view changes so you are given a different characters point of view at different times. Little truths are dropped to give better inside into the plot development. Even the supporting characters are given a development you often do not see in the telling of such a tale.
The characters are so engaging. You love them one moment and hate them the next. Point of view changes so you are given a different characters point of view at different times. Little truths are dropped to give better inside into the plot development. Even the supporting characters are given a development you often do not see in the telling of such a tale.
November 12, 2023
If I took a shot every time I read a historical fiction with blatant sexual assault disguised as sexy romance, irredeemable men as the love interests, and women who are purported to be strong but in reality exist under a misogynistic guise of “well it’s historical!” while rejecting the actual strength of women throughout history, I’d be blackout drunk.
for this book, I pour another shot.
for this book, I pour another shot.
September 29, 2025
A fun historical romance read, I enjoyed the audiobook narrator a TON but had trouble with the way the POVs were flipped through. Things get wrapped and resolved quite quickly and then there is, of course, an epilogue where the FMC is pregnant which I personally hate to see in a read but that’s just me
November 8, 2025
Maximillian is denied his rightful heritage after his hateful father dies. Now he seeks his own heritage at Kilderrick, a fortress he burned down years earlier at the command of his father. Unlike his brutal father he wants to stay. And rebuild it with the daughter who is the heiress. Their marriage starts out badly but after overcoming misunderstandings and enemies they find their hea
May 15, 2021
Wonderful Must Read Book
Liked how the brothers all found one another even though they weren’t all true to one another. The woman were are strong independent. Great story can’t wait to read next book in series.
Liked how the brothers all found one another even though they weren’t all true to one another. The woman were are strong independent. Great story can’t wait to read next book in series.
May 19, 2021
Excellent
I love Claire's books as they really do sit into the history of the time period. She knows how to write a stormy couple and also always gives a twist. I will continue to read this set as they are published as I very much enjoyed this and all the others she has written.
I love Claire's books as they really do sit into the history of the time period. She knows how to write a stormy couple and also always gives a twist. I will continue to read this set as they are published as I very much enjoyed this and all the others she has written.
January 18, 2022
A very fine historical romance
I like the historical aspect. I thought it was very cleverly written. I think this rises up to Kathleen Woodwiss level and would be enjoyed by her fans.
I like the historical aspect. I thought it was very cleverly written. I think this rises up to Kathleen Woodwiss level and would be enjoyed by her fans.
February 23, 2023
This is a wonderful story. I enjoyed it so much. It is a romance novel. It has sex scenes and violence in it. The storyline and characters are believable and you feel like you know them. I was sad when the story ended.
November 21, 2023
Great read
I truly enjoyed this book. I was leery at first, but Maximilian keep me enthralled. Numerous characters but not overwhelming that I would lose track of who was who Ms Delacroix is an astounding author I look forward to more from her.
I truly enjoyed this book. I was leery at first, but Maximilian keep me enthralled. Numerous characters but not overwhelming that I would lose track of who was who Ms Delacroix is an astounding author I look forward to more from her.
December 20, 2023
I appreciated how much Maximillian admired Alys’ wit, strength of character, and intelligence. It was refreshing to read a historical with an MMC that sees his wife as an equal and partner in leadership. Some iffy stuff with consent though.
June 10, 2021
Wonderful
This is an absolutely wonderful story. I think it is a must read. It was exciting and kept me interested the entire book
This is an absolutely wonderful story. I think it is a must read. It was exciting and kept me interested the entire book
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