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Peace-Weavers #1
A Knight to Call Her Home
A Norman warrior without a home…
A Saxon heiress determined to keep her own…
Nothing makes Lady Emma of Wakefield happier than telling her sisters how they should live their lives. She loves order and plans—especially when she is the one making them. When the new King forces her to marry one of his trusted knights, she has no intention of relinquishing her control and going quietly into that good bedchamber. But when she brings her new husband to her estate, she quickly comes to realize her conquering husband isn’t the wedding, bedding, and forgetting type.
Abandoned by his family and scarred by tragedy at a young age, Lord Hugh Fitzsimmons has had to fight for everything he has. After helping King William invade England, he expects nothing more than a bag of coins and a trip back to Normandy. A Saxon heiress, however beautiful, is not in his plans. But his new wife inspires feelings he thought he’d buried long ago, and Hugh is determined to keep what is his. Can he inspire his wife to see him as something other than the enemy or will old wounds ruin any hope he has of building a home he can call his own?
Set in the turbulent years immediately after the Norman conquest, A Knight To Call Her Home is a full-length historical romance and the first book in The Peace-Weavers Series. Please do not purchase if you are offended by strong language and or sex scenes.
A Saxon heiress determined to keep her own…
Nothing makes Lady Emma of Wakefield happier than telling her sisters how they should live their lives. She loves order and plans—especially when she is the one making them. When the new King forces her to marry one of his trusted knights, she has no intention of relinquishing her control and going quietly into that good bedchamber. But when she brings her new husband to her estate, she quickly comes to realize her conquering husband isn’t the wedding, bedding, and forgetting type.
Abandoned by his family and scarred by tragedy at a young age, Lord Hugh Fitzsimmons has had to fight for everything he has. After helping King William invade England, he expects nothing more than a bag of coins and a trip back to Normandy. A Saxon heiress, however beautiful, is not in his plans. But his new wife inspires feelings he thought he’d buried long ago, and Hugh is determined to keep what is his. Can he inspire his wife to see him as something other than the enemy or will old wounds ruin any hope he has of building a home he can call his own?
Set in the turbulent years immediately after the Norman conquest, A Knight To Call Her Home is a full-length historical romance and the first book in The Peace-Weavers Series. Please do not purchase if you are offended by strong language and or sex scenes.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 9, 2021
277 people are currently reading
1291 people want to read
About the author
Margaux Thorne
16 books42 followersI’m a lifelong reader of romance novels. Some of my earliest memories are of
sneaking into my mom’s room at night and stealing any books I could find.
After moving around quite a bit, I’ve finally put down roots in New England with my two sons and husband. I’ve always been a writer, starting out in newspapers, but it wasn’t until my sons began going to school full-time that I began working toward my dream of becoming a romance author.
I enjoy crocheting toys for my kids, hiking with my Saint Bernard, and watching Real Housewives on the couch with my very old and very fat pugs.
sneaking into my mom’s room at night and stealing any books I could find.
After moving around quite a bit, I’ve finally put down roots in New England with my two sons and husband. I’ve always been a writer, starting out in newspapers, but it wasn’t until my sons began going to school full-time that I began working toward my dream of becoming a romance author.
I enjoy crocheting toys for my kids, hiking with my Saint Bernard, and watching Real Housewives on the couch with my very old and very fat pugs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
dnf
March 30, 2023DNF 73%
I'm sure other historical romance readers who like an enemies-to-lovers story will enjoy this one, but for some reason I couldn't keep going. The main reason was the H.
I went from not liking him, to seeing potential, to not liking him again.
Then just when I was finally on board and thinking he was looking good as a romantic interest I ended up really not feeling him again. I felt like I was on a seesaw of emotions- and not in a good way.
I think what got me to DNF (beyond his childish attitude) was how he was taking over everything to do with the h's sisters- yeah he was letting them just do what they wanted and it was making them happier, but why not just TALK to his wife about it instead of going behind her back and not communicating?
Like why blindside her and willfully keep her sister's wellbeing from her when he knows how seriously she takes their futures? Was she going about it in the best way- probably not- but is that his choice to make unilaterally?
It was just the third time his overbearing attitude got to me, and I didn't want to keep reading to see how he was going to get out of it this time.
So yah I think he was bossy and inconsiderate but like I said if you like enemies to lovers and have KU then maybe give this a try and you might like it more than I did!
I'm sure other historical romance readers who like an enemies-to-lovers story will enjoy this one, but for some reason I couldn't keep going. The main reason was the H.
I went from not liking him, to seeing potential, to not liking him again.
Then just when I was finally on board and thinking he was looking good as a romantic interest I ended up really not feeling him again. I felt like I was on a seesaw of emotions- and not in a good way.
I think what got me to DNF (beyond his childish attitude) was how he was taking over everything to do with the h's sisters- yeah he was letting them just do what they wanted and it was making them happier, but why not just TALK to his wife about it instead of going behind her back and not communicating?
Like why blindside her and willfully keep her sister's wellbeing from her when he knows how seriously she takes their futures? Was she going about it in the best way- probably not- but is that his choice to make unilaterally?
It was just the third time his overbearing attitude got to me, and I didn't want to keep reading to see how he was going to get out of it this time.
So yah I think he was bossy and inconsiderate but like I said if you like enemies to lovers and have KU then maybe give this a try and you might like it more than I did!
March 12, 2022
Hoping to appease the new king, Saxon heiress, Emma of Wakefield travels to London to pay homage to William. She hopes to pay a tithe and return home, but the Conqueror has other plans for her and her estate. Namely, Norman warrior, Hugh Fitzsimmons who has loyally served William and was surprised when the king gifted him with an estate and a bride – but he is less than thrilled when his bride not only runs away but shoots him with an arrow and leaves him for dead when he catches up with her!
Hugh finally finds Emma and after saving her from a fate worse than death, he wins her acceptance of their marriage. But it is clear when someone poisons Emma at their wedding feast that everyone is not happy with this Norman-Saxon match. Hoping the worse is behind them, they return to Wakefield and they make an honest attempt to work together. It seems like HEA is a foregone conclusion, but will a stunning betrayal reveal that their feelings were just an illusion?
This debut novel was a delightful surprise for this reviewer and I believe this new author will be making a name for herself in the HR genre! The book is well-written, nicely paced, and has very likable and relatable characters. The story employs the classic enemy-to-lovers trope and is filled with steamyish love scenes, wonderful characters, a great supporting cast of secondary characters, a lot of emotion, a gruff hero with a heart of gold, betrayal, heartache, and finally a sigh-worthy ending. I will note that if you are a historical purist, this book might not be for you as there is a lot of modern verbiage, but if you are just looking for a fun read with steamyish love scenes, some laugh out loud moments, and a HEA - read this book! This is the first book in the series and I am happy to recommend the title and will definitely be reading the next book.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
Hugh finally finds Emma and after saving her from a fate worse than death, he wins her acceptance of their marriage. But it is clear when someone poisons Emma at their wedding feast that everyone is not happy with this Norman-Saxon match. Hoping the worse is behind them, they return to Wakefield and they make an honest attempt to work together. It seems like HEA is a foregone conclusion, but will a stunning betrayal reveal that their feelings were just an illusion?
This debut novel was a delightful surprise for this reviewer and I believe this new author will be making a name for herself in the HR genre! The book is well-written, nicely paced, and has very likable and relatable characters. The story employs the classic enemy-to-lovers trope and is filled with steamyish love scenes, wonderful characters, a great supporting cast of secondary characters, a lot of emotion, a gruff hero with a heart of gold, betrayal, heartache, and finally a sigh-worthy ending. I will note that if you are a historical purist, this book might not be for you as there is a lot of modern verbiage, but if you are just looking for a fun read with steamyish love scenes, some laugh out loud moments, and a HEA - read this book! This is the first book in the series and I am happy to recommend the title and will definitely be reading the next book.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
April 22, 2023
What a debut! I’m always wary of new authors, especially medieval romance authors because I can be very picky but this was a treat! Being the first in the series, while also being the first published book by Thorne, the novel is a dream for fans of historical romance. The historical aspects of the novel and the complexities of the characters blend seamlessly.
In this, we meet grizzled Norman warrior, Hugh Fitzsimmons, who has been rewarded for his battle prowess and loyalty to William the Conqueror, and is awarded Lady Emma. Lady Emma has no designs on being a wife, especially to a Norman, so, using her cunning and courage, devises a strategy to get out of her impending marriage. However, things do not go according to her plan. Nor do they go to Hugh’s plans. Especially when he ends up shot with an arrow coming from Emma's bow!
The dialogue is snappy and delightful, the characters interesting and well-developed and the plot and descriptions were engaging. It’s just well-written and pleasurable to read. Very reminiscent of Alice Coldbreath’s “Vawdrey Brothers” and “Brides of Karadok” series. So if you are a fan of hers, you will enjoy this debut novel of Thornes’. The love scenes were well placed and very steamy. I gravitate toward strong female characters and protective alpha men—and this book had both, but the characters are also soulful. I’m already halfway through the second one “The Good Night” and loving it just as much as the first! Cannot recommend enough!
In this, we meet grizzled Norman warrior, Hugh Fitzsimmons, who has been rewarded for his battle prowess and loyalty to William the Conqueror, and is awarded Lady Emma. Lady Emma has no designs on being a wife, especially to a Norman, so, using her cunning and courage, devises a strategy to get out of her impending marriage. However, things do not go according to her plan. Nor do they go to Hugh’s plans. Especially when he ends up shot with an arrow coming from Emma's bow!
The dialogue is snappy and delightful, the characters interesting and well-developed and the plot and descriptions were engaging. It’s just well-written and pleasurable to read. Very reminiscent of Alice Coldbreath’s “Vawdrey Brothers” and “Brides of Karadok” series. So if you are a fan of hers, you will enjoy this debut novel of Thornes’. The love scenes were well placed and very steamy. I gravitate toward strong female characters and protective alpha men—and this book had both, but the characters are also soulful. I’m already halfway through the second one “The Good Night” and loving it just as much as the first! Cannot recommend enough!
February 12, 2022
“A Knight to Call Home” by Margaux Thorne is the first in the Peace-Weavers series and also Thorne’s first published novel! However, you wouldn’t guess this by the depth of characters and her ability to create a realistic mediaeval romance!
In this, we meet grizzled Norman warrior, Hugh, who has been rewarded for his battle prowess and loyalty to William the Conqueror, and is awarded Lady Emma. Lady Emma has no designs on being a wife, especially to a Norman, so, using her cunning and courage, devises a strategy to get out of her impending marriage. However, things do not go according to her plan. Nor do they go to Hugh’s plans. Hugh and Emma, both stubborn and hardened by their circumstances, are able to come together after some bumps (miscommunication, hesitation, general stubbornness) while forces try to pry them apart all while trying to deal with Emma’s sisters and the estate.
It’s a really lovely read. Both Hugh and Emma feel like real people - their strengths, weaknesses, actions, and dialogue. As do the other peripheral folks, which all have their own defining characteristics that have you looking forward to seeing them as the series continues. I’m certainly looking forward to the next one!
If you enjoyed MJP’s “Uncommon Vows” or Lucy Morris’s “A Nun for the Viking Warrior,” I would highly recommend this book. It’s about two people, in mediaeval cultures, coming together and having to not only navigate attraction, marriage, but estates and families.
Also, “AKtCH” is on sale on Amazon for $0.99 for the next five days (or on KU!)!
In this, we meet grizzled Norman warrior, Hugh, who has been rewarded for his battle prowess and loyalty to William the Conqueror, and is awarded Lady Emma. Lady Emma has no designs on being a wife, especially to a Norman, so, using her cunning and courage, devises a strategy to get out of her impending marriage. However, things do not go according to her plan. Nor do they go to Hugh’s plans. Hugh and Emma, both stubborn and hardened by their circumstances, are able to come together after some bumps (miscommunication, hesitation, general stubbornness) while forces try to pry them apart all while trying to deal with Emma’s sisters and the estate.
It’s a really lovely read. Both Hugh and Emma feel like real people - their strengths, weaknesses, actions, and dialogue. As do the other peripheral folks, which all have their own defining characteristics that have you looking forward to seeing them as the series continues. I’m certainly looking forward to the next one!
If you enjoyed MJP’s “Uncommon Vows” or Lucy Morris’s “A Nun for the Viking Warrior,” I would highly recommend this book. It’s about two people, in mediaeval cultures, coming together and having to not only navigate attraction, marriage, but estates and families.
Also, “AKtCH” is on sale on Amazon for $0.99 for the next five days (or on KU!)!
April 10, 2022
So sweet!
This book was so much fun
I couldn't put it down. From a first time author. I can't wait to see what she does next!
This book was so much fun
I couldn't put it down. From a first time author. I can't wait to see what she does next!
July 27, 2023
Honestly this book frustrated me a little because I felt like I would’ve loved it so much if Hugh was 70% less of an ass sometimes. He’s much sweeter/obsessed in his POV and then doing dumb stuff out loud all the time!
I liked the writing, was interested in the story, but felt so hot and cold toward Hugh and was angry that Emma didn’t also feel that way? Like I started to feel crazy because she would accept his behavior and move on. Maybe it’s my mood?
Overall, I had two gripes with the story. First - there’s no active OW drama and Hugh is definitely obsessed with Emma quickly, but there’s constant thoughts of his past with OW, saying what he likes sexually, how he normally pleasures them but doesn’t give affection, etc. and I always hate that in a book. It’s just not needed, especially after they meet the love interest. There’s no one specific, thankfully.
My second biggest complaint is probably a sign of the times. I always think I could live in the past if not for feminism (and modern medicine😂) and this book reminded me. A few times Hugh tells her to know her place, that her responsibility is just to him and not to the keep, that he doesn’t need her help with anything… ugh! Emma kind of just takes it, and this bothered me. And the time they’re actually hashing it out/ fighting at the end he turns it back on her and makes her feel bad.
I guess this would’ve been realistic for the time period, but I was hoping for more of an attitude change to him. Especially since he seems so down bad for her?? He also realizes all her sisters’ interests and encourages them, and I wanted more of him doing that with Emma!
I know he tries to keep her at distance from past traumas but I was hoping for more of him opening up to her. I feel like a lot of their connection is bolstered through sex and would’ve liked one fight or moment to not just end physically.
But the end had some sweetness. And I liked that there was a bit of action too!
So overall, I still liked it. Something about it was very readable and I was rooting for the characters. If Hugh was more communicative, it would’ve been even better!
I liked the writing, was interested in the story, but felt so hot and cold toward Hugh and was angry that Emma didn’t also feel that way? Like I started to feel crazy because she would accept his behavior and move on. Maybe it’s my mood?
Overall, I had two gripes with the story. First - there’s no active OW drama and Hugh is definitely obsessed with Emma quickly, but there’s constant thoughts of his past with OW, saying what he likes sexually, how he normally pleasures them but doesn’t give affection, etc. and I always hate that in a book. It’s just not needed, especially after they meet the love interest. There’s no one specific, thankfully.
My second biggest complaint is probably a sign of the times. I always think I could live in the past if not for feminism (and modern medicine😂) and this book reminded me. A few times Hugh tells her to know her place, that her responsibility is just to him and not to the keep, that he doesn’t need her help with anything… ugh! Emma kind of just takes it, and this bothered me. And the time they’re actually hashing it out/ fighting at the end he turns it back on her and makes her feel bad.
I guess this would’ve been realistic for the time period, but I was hoping for more of an attitude change to him. Especially since he seems so down bad for her?? He also realizes all her sisters’ interests and encourages them, and I wanted more of him doing that with Emma!
I know he tries to keep her at distance from past traumas but I was hoping for more of him opening up to her. I feel like a lot of their connection is bolstered through sex and would’ve liked one fight or moment to not just end physically.
But the end had some sweetness. And I liked that there was a bit of action too!
So overall, I still liked it. Something about it was very readable and I was rooting for the characters. If Hugh was more communicative, it would’ve been even better!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
dnf-never-again
October 29, 2023**Most of my reviews contain detailed Content Notes (including CW/TW) sections, which may include spoilers. I have tried to mark them appropriately, but please use caution.**
Ebook
DNF
Summary: Forced political marriage between a young woman and knight who get off to a bad start. | Stats: HR - Medieval, M/F, part of a series (seems to stand largely alone), open door.
Notes: This seems like the author googled a “medieval word for ___” a few times and read the intro to a wikipedia page on the Norman invasion and said, “Good enough!” The characters are one dimensional, things happen to them without meaningful response or reflection, and they read far too modern. There is some classic romance book-ness to the story which is really why I continued for so long, but it really wasn’t working for me. I also felt like the SA was not handled particularly meaningfully or respectfully and just used as a way to slow the consummation of the MCs' marriage down slightly. Rather a dark note in an overall disney-ish story.
Incomplete, but still spoilery, Content Notes
Ebook
DNF
Summary: Forced political marriage between a young woman and knight who get off to a bad start. | Stats: HR - Medieval, M/F, part of a series (seems to stand largely alone), open door.
Notes: This seems like the author googled a “medieval word for ___” a few times and read the intro to a wikipedia page on the Norman invasion and said, “Good enough!” The characters are one dimensional, things happen to them without meaningful response or reflection, and they read far too modern. There is some classic romance book-ness to the story which is really why I continued for so long, but it really wasn’t working for me. I also felt like the SA was not handled particularly meaningfully or respectfully and just used as a way to slow the consummation of the MCs' marriage down slightly. Rather a dark note in an overall disney-ish story.
Incomplete, but still spoilery, Content Notes
March 5, 2022
I really wish Goodreads had .5 ratings because this was a solid 4.5 star!!
I really enjoyed this book!
I don’t think I’ve read a historical romance set anywhere around the 1066 William the Conqueror’s invasion of England, much less one set the year after, as animosity and hatred between Normans and the invaded Saxons are at their peak. Emma has been ordered by the new King to marry his top warrior, Hugh. Neither one had any idea this was going to happen, and Emma’s reaction is to sneak back home, naively assuming the King will forget about her. Hugh, knowing his King, sets off after her. Thus begins our heartwarming love story!
This story flowed so well, and I kept sneaking in times throughout my day to pick it up - even if just for a page or two. I adored the characters, and I am really looking forward to Willa’s book! For those of you readers who love steam with any romance they read, rejoice! This is very open door 😉.
This was almost a 5 star read for me, but there were a few editing misses closer to the end of the book that couldn't be overlooked
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really enjoyed this book!
I don’t think I’ve read a historical romance set anywhere around the 1066 William the Conqueror’s invasion of England, much less one set the year after, as animosity and hatred between Normans and the invaded Saxons are at their peak. Emma has been ordered by the new King to marry his top warrior, Hugh. Neither one had any idea this was going to happen, and Emma’s reaction is to sneak back home, naively assuming the King will forget about her. Hugh, knowing his King, sets off after her. Thus begins our heartwarming love story!
This story flowed so well, and I kept sneaking in times throughout my day to pick it up - even if just for a page or two. I adored the characters, and I am really looking forward to Willa’s book! For those of you readers who love steam with any romance they read, rejoice! This is very open door 😉.
This was almost a 5 star read for me, but there were a few editing misses closer to the end of the book that couldn't be overlooked
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 23, 2024
DNF 40%. It feels like minimum research was done about the time period (regarding dowry and how women inherited property), plus the normans all speaking perfect english??
also the main dude isn’t really charismatic enough to get away with how much of a dickhead he is to his wife so he just comes across as mean and pushy all the time
also the main dude isn’t really charismatic enough to get away with how much of a dickhead he is to his wife so he just comes across as mean and pushy all the time
April 6, 2022
Fine for the genre
Mostly sweet but a bit more rape-as-plot-device than I prefer. Still, it's an overall pleasant read with some excellent longing and a good amount of spice
Mostly sweet but a bit more rape-as-plot-device than I prefer. Still, it's an overall pleasant read with some excellent longing and a good amount of spice
January 29, 2024
3 stars
Felt average, there really wasn’t anything wrong with the story or characters themselves, but it didn’t pull me in and was not memorable.
Felt average, there really wasn’t anything wrong with the story or characters themselves, but it didn’t pull me in and was not memorable.
March 5, 2022
A warrior with a heart of gold, who falls hard (literally) for a plucky, courageous lady in a forced/marriage of convenience scenario. Add in some nice and some annoying family members, some intrigue and lots of steam and you have a thoroughly enjoyable debut from Margaux Thorne in A Knight to Call Her Home.
What I loved:
Hugh. Oh Hugh. Equal parts possessive, protective, hilarious (I laughed out loud at his ideas of what his future bride needed to know about him) and bleeding heart.
Emma. Strong-willed, stubborn and yet, pragmatic.
Alice and Sibley - can't wait to see these two come into their own - I am going to assume that their stories will form later books in the series.
Geoffrey - another LOL moment for me was his conversation with Hugh, when he has quite the unusual analogy for learning to be married. I am looking forward to his book.
Some minor quibbles:
Emma's back-story - while it is clear that she is the head of her family, and this inspires a lot of her thinking.... I felt like we learn about (and therefore love) Hugh more? Emma's lack of people judgement (I can't say too much without giving away some spoilers) given her experience running her keep and family, was surprising.
In certain parts, the dialogue is anachronistic.
But these are 2 minor quibbles indeed, and don't take away from a fun and promising start to a brand new series from a new romance author.
Now on to Willa and Geoffrey!
Updated to add some content/trigger warnings: sexual threat, sexual violence, (hinted at and mostly off the page)
What I loved:
Hugh. Oh Hugh. Equal parts possessive, protective, hilarious (I laughed out loud at his ideas of what his future bride needed to know about him) and bleeding heart.
Emma. Strong-willed, stubborn and yet, pragmatic.
Alice and Sibley - can't wait to see these two come into their own - I am going to assume that their stories will form later books in the series.
Geoffrey - another LOL moment for me was his conversation with Hugh, when he has quite the unusual analogy for learning to be married. I am looking forward to his book.
Some minor quibbles:
Emma's back-story - while it is clear that she is the head of her family, and this inspires a lot of her thinking.... I felt like we learn about (and therefore love) Hugh more? Emma's lack of people judgement (I can't say too much without giving away some spoilers) given her experience running her keep and family, was surprising.
In certain parts, the dialogue is anachronistic.
But these are 2 minor quibbles indeed, and don't take away from a fun and promising start to a brand new series from a new romance author.
Now on to Willa and Geoffrey!
Updated to add some content/trigger warnings: sexual threat, sexual violence, (hinted at and mostly off the page)
March 9, 2022
Lady Emma of Wakefield goes in front of the Norman King William, prepared to beg for her estate with a bag of coins. But instead she is given in marriage to one of his fiercest warriors, Hugh, in a bid to inspire peace between the Saxons and conquering Normans. From the start, Emma struggles for her independence, both before she's wed, then after they return to Wakefield. She has always been the last of the manor, controlling everything from the kitchen to her three sisters.
Hugh is a second son, unwanted and abandoned to King William's court, trained to be a great knight. He is sick of war, sick of traveling, but he jumps at the chance of a place to belong. Especially when his meek and emotional bride-to-be escapes and leads him a merry chase. He learns it's not enough to win the estate, he longs to win his lady's heart.
I absolutely loved the gentle giant Hugh became around Emma's sisters. I could tell from the start he just wanted family and a place to belong. It took me a little longer to like Emma, since she just seemed bossy and shrewish and too controlling in the beginning. I think the book could have used a little more editing, but overall a good debut in an exciting new series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Hugh is a second son, unwanted and abandoned to King William's court, trained to be a great knight. He is sick of war, sick of traveling, but he jumps at the chance of a place to belong. Especially when his meek and emotional bride-to-be escapes and leads him a merry chase. He learns it's not enough to win the estate, he longs to win his lady's heart.
I absolutely loved the gentle giant Hugh became around Emma's sisters. I could tell from the start he just wanted family and a place to belong. It took me a little longer to like Emma, since she just seemed bossy and shrewish and too controlling in the beginning. I think the book could have used a little more editing, but overall a good debut in an exciting new series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 14, 2022
Such a good debut from the author! This is a historical romance book if you are burned out on historical romance. It's not Regency, there are no Scots in kilts. This is Medieval, but not too heavy or clunky. Taking place right after the Normans take the English throne, this story follows the political matches the new king makes between his most trusted knights and Saxon heiresses. There's rebellion, action, swordplay, castles, and tonnssss of sizzling chemistry between our main characters Hugh and Emma.
I also really loved this book because of the dynamic between Hugh and Emma. Hugh has childhood damage, but he loves so sweetly- loves her and her sisters. He does anything to take care of her. I didn't think I'd swoon at a man comparing his lady love to a bruise... but here we are... and I did swoon. Emma is also a great main character because I can feel her sense of responsibility. She really won me over at the very start with how fiercely she fought Hugh.
I recommend this book if you like the Maya Banks Highlander series or the Kresly Cole Scottish romance series (I don't know if it has a series name, it's some of her early work). Even though there aren't Highlanders/Scots, there's a similar feeling of arranged marriages between formerly conflicting clans/groups causing fireworks.
Just to flag, there IS an attempted rape scene, not by Hugh, and mention of rape and suicide.
I also really loved this book because of the dynamic between Hugh and Emma. Hugh has childhood damage, but he loves so sweetly- loves her and her sisters. He does anything to take care of her. I didn't think I'd swoon at a man comparing his lady love to a bruise... but here we are... and I did swoon. Emma is also a great main character because I can feel her sense of responsibility. She really won me over at the very start with how fiercely she fought Hugh.
I recommend this book if you like the Maya Banks Highlander series or the Kresly Cole Scottish romance series (I don't know if it has a series name, it's some of her early work). Even though there aren't Highlanders/Scots, there's a similar feeling of arranged marriages between formerly conflicting clans/groups causing fireworks.
Just to flag, there IS an attempted rape scene, not by Hugh, and mention of rape and suicide.
June 4, 2024
I would have been a 4 star, but the modern language and phrases pulled me out of the story too often. Words and phrases like "fiancee" and "sans clothing".... and a few other things like backgammon being played and eating chicken. I feel like these things could have easily been substituted with something else more appropriate for the time period.
I did enjoy the characters and story enough to finish the book though. I liked the set up and the characters. Reading a Norman conqueror written as a nice guy was refreshing! All he wants is to make a new life and home with his new hit Saxon wife that he worships. Emma wants the same as well. She just wants peace and to have a good marriage with Hugh. You don't see very many medieval romances where the couple accepts their forced marriage and tries to make it work. A lot of the conflict of the book is them navigating their new life. Emma is a control freak who has been in charge of their castle for a while now. But with Hugh, he is now in charge and she has to learn to discuss things and trust his judgement. I really enjoyed their small arguments and how he made her see how she wasn't really helping in some situations, but actually hindering.
I did enjoy the characters and story enough to finish the book though. I liked the set up and the characters. Reading a Norman conqueror written as a nice guy was refreshing! All he wants is to make a new life and home with his new hit Saxon wife that he worships. Emma wants the same as well. She just wants peace and to have a good marriage with Hugh. You don't see very many medieval romances where the couple accepts their forced marriage and tries to make it work. A lot of the conflict of the book is them navigating their new life. Emma is a control freak who has been in charge of their castle for a while now. But with Hugh, he is now in charge and she has to learn to discuss things and trust his judgement. I really enjoyed their small arguments and how he made her see how she wasn't really helping in some situations, but actually hindering.
February 15, 2022
Overall I think this was a really great read! Character development in this was really well written. I immediately fell in love with all of the characters especially Hugh and the sisters. I felt the characters were endearing and individualistic. They all had their own story rather than just being a supporting character. Even Edward the groomsman had a deep story which explained his behavior in the end. I appreciate how this story was developed way before the end, he didn’t just randomly pop up and cause mischief. I appreciate how there was a good story behind the steamy scenes. Usually I am not one to read books with sexual content. I used to when I was younger and I found that most of them were based around the activity and there was no story surrounding. This one however does have a story with is much more than just those scenes, and each has a purpose for the happening. Overall it was a really well written book! Highly Recommend! Can’t wait to read the next ones in the series!!
February 23, 2022
Pleasantly surprised at this refreshing historical fantasy. It wasn't like any others I have read in the last year or two, no regency, early 1920's or Tudor kingdoms here. The characters were believable and at times funny. The main characters Emma and Hugh are so cute and I enjoyed their enemies to lovers romance. Emma's sister Willa is just horrible and entitled and I couldn't really connect with her character but I guess she adds a flair to the story and plays a role needed, yet the other two younger sisters, Sibley and Alice were my favorites and I love how they developed a bond with Hugh against all odds. The character growth in Hugh and Emma through this book is slow and steady and very amazing. It shows how false perceptions and prejudices can ruin us if we let it and I'm here for it's message. I look forward to seeing what this author produces in the future.
February 17, 2022
While the story deserves at least 4 stars, with this being a book already published, I can't in good conscience give it more than 3 due to the terrible editing. The most annoying was characters names being misused or switched in a sentence.
Having said that, the story was entertaining and descriptive so that you could picture in your mind's eye, the look of the characters and scenery as if you were there. This book had action, drama, mystery, a we bit of humor, and romance melting the pages. I'm looking forward to the second book in the Peace-Weavers series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Having said that, the story was entertaining and descriptive so that you could picture in your mind's eye, the look of the characters and scenery as if you were there. This book had action, drama, mystery, a we bit of humor, and romance melting the pages. I'm looking forward to the second book in the Peace-Weavers series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 20, 2022
I found this book to be highly entertaining and a real page turner. There were a few words that I had to look up, usually clothing of that era, and a few of those words were NOT in the Kindle dictionary.
She was imaginative, and I can see where she could definitely create a series from the sisters in the book. Each one has the possibility to find an interesting life. I’m not sure how realistic the story really is during at the time, but readers don’t always read historical romance for the history.
I would recommend this book to anyone who would like a quick romp back to that time. It is for mature audiences who like the juicy parts spelled out well.
I only found one spelling/grammar error in a larger Kindle book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Once she comes out with other books in the series, I’m sure they will be on my list.
She was imaginative, and I can see where she could definitely create a series from the sisters in the book. Each one has the possibility to find an interesting life. I’m not sure how realistic the story really is during at the time, but readers don’t always read historical romance for the history.
I would recommend this book to anyone who would like a quick romp back to that time. It is for mature audiences who like the juicy parts spelled out well.
I only found one spelling/grammar error in a larger Kindle book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Once she comes out with other books in the series, I’m sure they will be on my list.
March 21, 2022
A Knight to Call Her Home is a historical romance novel that takes place during 1067 in the UK.
I found it enjoyable and it also had a little mystery to it. It’s an enemies to lovers and smexy.
Normans and Saxons are at war and land was a currency. We have a strong protagonist and a handsome in a Arnold Schwarzenegger kind of way.
It’s a stand alone but the author is writing another novel with these characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I found it enjoyable and it also had a little mystery to it. It’s an enemies to lovers and smexy.
Normans and Saxons are at war and land was a currency. We have a strong protagonist and a handsome in a Arnold Schwarzenegger kind of way.
It’s a stand alone but the author is writing another novel with these characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 3, 2022
After losing her parents, Emma was left in charge of her sisters and the village of Wakefield. Now she must do what is right for her village, but will it be what’s right for her too?
From a young age, Hugh didn’t know his place in the world, being moved from home to home after his mother died. Now the King has tasked him with a job that even he never thought possible. So why does it feel so right?
This is a very well written story about two people unlikely to connect, who are able to beat the odds and find their paths in life. The author of this story does a great job transporting the readers to a different time, where things seemed much simpler.
From a young age, Hugh didn’t know his place in the world, being moved from home to home after his mother died. Now the King has tasked him with a job that even he never thought possible. So why does it feel so right?
This is a very well written story about two people unlikely to connect, who are able to beat the odds and find their paths in life. The author of this story does a great job transporting the readers to a different time, where things seemed much simpler.
February 15, 2022
If you love romance, this is your book. It’s so well written and the characters just ooze of chemistry. Loved loved every second. Pacing is amazing ensuring you don’t get bored and you also get point of view of each main lead… a double win!!!!!
Million stars.
Million stars.
February 16, 2022
The book was a great read indeed. The character Hugh and Emma brought out the theme of love in the book and for that I applaud the author. It is a book I will read all over again and I would recommend it to my fellow book worm friends.
March 21, 2022
An absolute stellar book! Just read it and see for yourself. Lady Emma and her three Saxon sisters are left orphaned by the Normans. The Norman King forces Emma to marry Norman Knight Hugh. They thought this would be over but then the intrigue and plotting really begins. The first sign of this is Emma's poisoning. Hugh tries hard to take care of her. She shoots him with an arrow. Can this marriage survive? I could not put this book down and want to read the next one as soon as possible.
March 23, 2022
Explicit
This book was a little too explicit for my reading taste. Very heavy on sex scenes and foul language and light on history. It might be enjoyed by romance fans, but it wasn't for me unfortunately.
This book was a little too explicit for my reading taste. Very heavy on sex scenes and foul language and light on history. It might be enjoyed by romance fans, but it wasn't for me unfortunately.
March 23, 2022
Oh my gosh I loved this story. It was hard to put down. The chemistry between Emma and Hugh was great. Can’t wait to read the book about Willa.
September 10, 2023
This was great, funny, and hot! A marriage in convenience, between a norman groom and saxon bride. I finished the book in one sitting.
Read
March 12, 2025It read like a modern romance novel 70% of the time
September 11, 2022
Would’ve been 5 if it had an epilogue!
July 16, 2024
I would have given this a slightly higher rating if it wasn’t absolutely riddled with errors. The grammatical and formatting errors were so glaring, I found myself highlighting them as a means to keep track of just how frequent they were! This could be a quick little palate cleanser read if it weren’t for that aspect which really takes a reader out of the act of reading! Even if you are self publishing, you can utilize free or cheap proofreading software to clean up your draft.
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