Le Chef

Order of the Broken Blade #4.5

by Cecelia Mecca, Flora Bruneau (Translator)

Une demoiselle de compagnie et un futur chef. La magie de la Saint-Valentin peut-elle les réunir ?

Rory Kennaugh se contenterait parfaitement de rester indéfiniment le second de son frère. C’est du moins ce qu’il se dit. Leur père était à la fois chef de clan et comte, après tout, et en dépit du long séjour de Terric en Angleterre, il n’a aucune raison de croire que son frère renoncera au titre. Mais la perception qu’il se fait de sa place et de son avenir dans le clan est bouleversée par une révélation surprenante, le jour même de la Saint-Valentin.

Cristane a accédé à l’une des plus hautes distinctions possibles pour une servante : dame de compagnie. Seulement, sa dame Cait, désormais comtesse de Licheford, ne l’a pas encore appelée, et son cœur intrépide s’est attaché au frère de Cait. Consciente que Rory ne pourra jamais lui rendre son amour, elle garde ses sentiments pour elle... jusqu’à la fête de la Saint-Valentin, où les jeux traditionnels révèlent son secret honteux à l’objet de son affection.

La révélation des sentiments de Cristane change Rory en profondeur, libérant son cœur. Un nouveau défi pour le clan lui offre l’occasion de prouver sa valeur. Mais un futur chef peut-il se permettre d’aimer une dame de compagnie ?

AVERTISSEMENT : L’histoire d’amour de Rory et Cristane fera fondre votre cœur. Si vous avez un faible pour l’amitié qui se change en amour et pour les relations contrariées, cette lecture est à vos risques et périls.

Genres: Historical, Romance

90 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 7, 2020

About the author

Your escape awaits...

Cecelia Mecca is the bestselling author of steamy historical romance and also writes contemporary small town romance as Cissy Mecca and romantasy/PNR as C.L. Mecca.

Armed with a Ph.D. and lots of chai, she's known for giving readers "heroines who you want to be your best friend." When these ladies meet alpha-males who try to gain control, sparks fly until the very last page. One reader says, "No one can so completely whisk you away like Cecelia."

Our Highlander-loving author can be found in Northeast, Pennsylvania thinking up new ways to tame both medieval and contemporary bad boys. She is firmly House Stark and Gryffindor and loves all things fantasy, especially when tinged with a bit of steamy romance.

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Reviews

[🦉Maggie Whitworth · Rating 4 out of 5]

❤️❤️❤️❤️1/2
💋💋

Their lands are under threat , the enemy another Scottish clan, the Chance target is the woman he’s known for years ,and never realised he had such strong feelings for.

With his brother Terric , the Earl and clan leader ,away fighting against British tyranny with the other members of The Order of the Broken Blade, it up to Rory to show what he’s made of , and to prove he’s good enough to be the real leader of his clan , The Chief .

A wonderful finale to this addictive series.
From first meeting the character I adored Rory, a womaniser, much underrated and great fun to be around Character.

He was a mystery in so many ways , I wanted to unwrap and understand him .
Cecelia has done that perfectly I think.
He’s very thoughtful, a loving son , like most men he misses what’s right in his face , but he’s quick to act and defend, he’s a passionate man and he knows he has flaws.

A wonderful hero in true Cecelia Mecca style.
My only slight complaint is that this is a novella and I would have loved more of this man an his fight for his love and clan.

In all , brilliant book stunning characters and great addition and ending.
4 1/2 Stars

I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review

[Lail · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Chief: A Medieval Friends to Lovers Romance (Order of the Broken Blade Book 5)
OH, HAPPY VALENTINES TO ME♥️
I’ve been throughly seduced and lovingly swept away by this amazing story.
This is a beautifully written love story with amazing characters, thrilling action, and an emotional intensity, I couldn’t help but getting lost in every page! And, the heart melting romance... well, let’s just say, “Happy Valentines Day”❣️
Dislikes: it’s over!
I Truly Loved, Loved, Loved this story and series! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Happy Reading ♥️

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rory Kennaugh has always lived in the shadow of his beloved, slightly older, twin brother, Terric. Rory is content to serve as second and stand-in chief while Terric is in England securing his earldom and Rory doesn't truly expect Terric to release his second title of Chief of Clan Kennaugh, despite being torn between two countries. But through a series of events on St. Valentine's Feast Day, Rory begins to reevaluate his perceptions of himself and how others see him, mostly due to an encounter with a woman he has long considered a close friend.

Christane has risen to the highest castle position she can as lady's maid to Rory's sister Cait. But with Cait in England and having not yet sent for her, Christane's position at Bradon Moor is precarious. It doesn't help that Rory, the longtime friend she has long been in love with, is the first man she sees on St. Valentine's Day and traditions lead to his discovery of the feelings she has managed to keep secret all this time.

This revelation changes how Rory sees most everything and when the clan is threatened Rory has a chance to prove himself at last, but will he stand up for what, and who, he wants, despite obvious challenges and class differences?

I'm so glad we got this book! I wasn't ready to leave the world of the Order of the Broken Blade and Rory so deserved his story. This was a lovely, fast-paced novella and it was the perfect bow to wrap up one of my favorite series.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...

[Mhollie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Lacking

A novella, not a full length novel. There was absolutely no depth to this story or its characters. A shame really. I hate giving bad reviews but I am not going to lie and say this was a good read as it was not.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Chief
Order of the Broken Blade #4.5
Cecelia Mecca
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rory Kennaugh is more then happy to remain his bothers second or so he would have everyone believe. Their father served as both the Chief of the clan and the Earl so even though Terric has been in England for a long time there is no reason to believe that his brother will ever relinquish the title. But things are not always what they seem. Rory's perception of himself and his future in the clan will start to change on Sainte Valentine's Feast Day.

Cristane has been lucky enough to rise in the ranks. She has risen to one of the highest positions possible for a servant. She has become a lady's maid to Rory's sister Cait who is now the countess of Licheford, but she hasn't sent for her yet. Cristane has been friends with Rory for as long as she can remember, but she now foolishly loves him with the heart of a woman and knows he can never return her love. This is why she has kept her feelings to herself until the Valentine's feast, when the traditional games reveal her mortifying secret to Rory.

This new revelation about Cristane's feelings change Rory. It unlocks his heart making him see her in a new light. Then something happens with the clan and instead of Rory making his usual glib comment he says what he thinks and proves for once and for all that he can be clan chief. But as a second, or even a chief can this fragile love even begin to bloom?

Cecelia Mecca knocks it out of the park, yet again. She pens all of the action and love that are in a full length book and puts it all down into one novella. I was sucked into this fabulous read right from the get go. Rory and Cristane are such an endearing couple that you can't help but fall in love with them. They have a sweet love and you start rooting for them right from the start. Once again Ms. Mecca you have pulled me into the Medieval world and I thank you for this fabulous addition to The Order of the Broken Blade Series.

[Lail · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Chief: A Medieval Friends to Lovers Romance (Order of the Broken Blade Book 5)
OH, HAPPY VALENTINES TO ME♥️
I’ve been throughly seduced and lovingly swept away by this amazing story.
This is a beautifully written love story with amazing characters, thrilling action, and an emotional intensity, I couldn’t help but getting lost in every page! And, the heart melting romance... well, let’s just say, “Happy Valentines Day”❣️
Dislikes: it’s over!
I Truly Loved, Loved, Loved this story and series! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Happy Reading ♥️

[Kristin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would like to thank the author for a free of the book in exchange for an honest review.

I loved that the heroine wasn't upper class and that the hero was a decent person under all of his bravado. The resolution was a little quick, but I enjoyed the story.

[Monika · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful ending to a wonderful series. This is the oh-so-sweet love story of Rory and Cristane. I'm glad he got his HEA. I just wished this had been a novel. It was over way too soon.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rory Kennaugh is perfectly happy to remain his brother’s second indefinitely. Or so he tells himself. But his perception of himself and his future in the clan is transformed by a surprising revelation on Saint Valentine’s Feast Day. Cristane has ascended to one of the highest position possible for a servant: lady’s maid to Cait, now the Countess of Licheford who has not yet sent for her so she tries to help around the castle. She has loved Rory for years & knows perfectly well Rory can never return her love, which is why she keeps her feelings to herself until the Valentine’s feast, when the traditional games reveal her mortifying secret to the object of her affection. The revelation about Cristane’s feelings changes Rory, unlocking his heart, and a new challenge to the clan gives him the chance to prove his mettle.
An engrossing quick read that I read in a sitting. I loved everything about it, in some ways it was a long epilogue to the series but also saw Rory having his HEA. Strong characters who did some soul searching. I loved how everyone but Rory saw him for who he truly was. A story not to be missed if you’ve read the other Broken Blade stories.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Kat Tolle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Perfect Love Story By Cecelia Mecca. The Chief: A Medieval Friends to Lovers Romance is book 5 in the Order of the Broken Blade. I haven’t read such an amazing series since The Highland Guard by Monica McCarty. This medieval story is so creative and very well written. The plot is intriguing and I could not put down The Chief. You will defiantly fall in love with Rory, her main character as he is such a brawny Scot. I don’t know if I would call The Chief enemies to lovers, it is more like old best friends that just realized they mean more to each other than what they though. If I had one complaint it would be that this book was not long enough and I was sad I read the whole thing in one sitting, it was that good. It could have been a full book and not a Novella. This story has friendships, understanding, not believing in oneself, a difference in station, wanting to run away, attempted kidnapping, a fight to the dead and yes love. I highly recommend this book but if you want to get the full story read The Blacksmith, The Mercenary, The Scot and The Earl first to get the full picture. Trust me when I say you will not be disappointed.

***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.

[Lori D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bradon Moor Castle, Scotland 1215
"It had begun innocently enough. The boy who'd always had dirt on his cheeks...the lad who'd sat in the stables with so many sick and orphaned horses.....he had become a man." Such were Cristane's thoughts of Rory, brother of Terric, Clan Chief, who she had know since they were young. Yes she loved him but she was a ladies maid to his sister and would never be high enough for him.
But it was the "Feast of St Valentine" day and who knew what would happen! Rory acted so carefree, but it hid some of his deeper feelings.
When an innocent game revealed Cristane's feelings to him, his first thought was it could never be. Fortunately, he starts thinking and finds his heart already engaged with hers, but would it work?
I truly loved these two and they were just so right together! The heart knows what the heart wants and it seems it was always right there in front of them.
Cecelia Mecca again brings a story I was so glad to see and find out what happened with Rory. Such a great ending to this amazing series!

[Jas · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really cute novella, and I’m glad it’s included since the previous books in the series hinted at Rory’s position in the clan. He and Cristane are adorable together and the inclusion of st. Valentine’s feast/traditions was so cute!

[AnnMarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Chief is the final book, a novella in the Order of the Broken Blade series by Cecelia Mecca. You can read the book as a standalone, but believe me, you will enjoy it so much more if you have read the other books because then you will appreciate just how wonderful it is to read Rory's story.

Rory Kennaugh is a highlander, second to his twin brother, Terric, who is both an Earl and a Clan chief. He could be given either of those positions from Terric but he doesn't particularly want them and Terric hasn't offered.

Cristane has worked up from being a serving girl to now being Lady's maid to Terric's wife, Cait. It's a wonderful position for her and she and Cait get along famously. She has known both Terric and Rory for years and secretly has been in love with Rory for most of that time. They are good friends and Cristane never dreams they could be anything more especially with their class difference.

On Saint Valentine's day, it comes to light through a Scottish tradition that Cristane has feelings for Rory. He is shocked and she is embarrassed. Rory had never thought of her as anything except a friend, he hadn't really noticed that she had grown up beautifully. Once he realises she has feelings for him he takes a good look at her, sees how beautiful she has become and wonders how he could have missed it in the first place.

He convinces her to spend some time with him and the more time they spend with each other the more they find themselves lusting for each other more than either thought possible. They still have their class difference to consider. Cristane doesn't want to be his mistress but he can't offer to take her as a wife. Maybe they should just stay away from each other, maybe they should just enjoy a night or two and then go back to being friends. Would that even be possible?

As well as the budding relationship building between our main couple, there is also a threat of war between clans that Rory has to deal with. It's something that Terric should be doing but he is in England with his wife. Rory has sent him a message but will Terric reply to it before the decision about whether to fight or not has to be made by Rory?

What I really enjoy about books by Cecelia Mecca is that there is never a dull moment. Nothing drags on too much, and there is always something happening that keeps me wanting to read as quickly as possible to see the outcome. The settings the stories are told in are described beautifully and I love reading the books and imagining myself sounding Scottish when I read their accented words. I love too that Rory, as the other men in the series are, is a strong and faithful man who doesn't try to keep his women under the thumb. They all appreciate the strength their women bring to their relationships. They don't try to change their women and love them as they are.

I was so pleased that Rory found his happy ending, like the rest of the men in the Broken Blade series, but I am also so very sad that the series has come to an end. I will miss Rory, Terric, Lance, Guy, Conrad and their wonderful ladies!

[Lorrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

She's always admired him, despite her station. Could she dream of anything more?

Just as I was saddened to see the series end, this author reveals a surprise. A friends to lovers novella surrounded around Valentine's Day. Whoop!!

Loved the way the story opened with humor immediately drawing you into an axe-throwing contest. Loved Rory from the very start (in previous books of The Order too). Not only was he brave, he had a good head on his shoulders and was capable of leading his clan. Only he didn't think so and that title went to his older twin brother who held two titles, just as his father had.

Cristane had been moved up in the ranks to Cait's lady's maid but had little to do until she sent for her after her marriage to Terric. The other servants' jealousy normally had her keeping her distance searching for something to do throughout the day, which gave her plenty of time to daydream about Rory. A man she secretly loved but could never have. They had been friends for a very long time and were quite comfortable with one another's company but she knew it could never be anything more. Still her heart yearned for his kiss and affection, the treacherous organ that it was.

Until one day, during a Valentine's celebration...her longtime-guarded secret is revealed. And Rory sees Cristane in a different light. But while his newfound discovery warms his heart, could they ever be together? Even as the second, he would be expected to marry to benefit his clan.

Alright, I've said it before...but this was certainly a perfect ending to the "Order of the Blade" series. One where Cinderella stories do come true and love brings a HEA.

[Margaret Watkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Always the joker, never taking anything seriously, Rory has perfected the role of court jester, much to his brother's despair. However, there is one person who sees right through him to the innermost workings of his gentle heart, namely Cristane. Stumbling on a familiar ritual, Rory realises that there is more to Cristane's feelings for him than he first thought and that provokes emotions that he has been careful not to entertain. They were after all friends, someone he could trust to be honest with him under all circumstances. However, once the lid has been lifted from the proverbial box, there is no way to stuff the feelings that have been flowing below the surface, back inside. With the stage set for war and his role within the clan undecided, Rory finds himself struggling with his desires. When push comes to shove, he discovers that he has not been fooling anyone. I thoroughly enjoyed the main characters in this novelette. Despite Rory's past, his gentle spirit comes to the fore and Cristane is the perfect foil for him. Although an epilogue to the series, this story is a standalone and brings the plot to a delightful close. I received a copy of this book as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was so hard to finish the Order of the Blades series with the Earl, so I am very happy that Cecelia Mecca decided to add The Chief, which tells the story of the "second" Rory, in charge of the clan in Scotland while his brother Terric rules his earldom in England. Despite being twin brothers, everyone views Terric as being more responsible and think of Rory as somewhat reckless. But maybe Rory likes it that way. This is a stand-alone "coming of age" tale where Rory must decide once and for all if he is a good fit to become the Chief of the clan and make sound decisions with an impending battle with a neighboring clan. Amidst the tension and drama of the clan conflicts, Rory discovers at the annual St. Valentine's feast, that a longtime friend is in love with him. But a romance with a servant is an impossible situation. Cecelia loves to give us tangled knots of relationships that get resolved in the end, often in very clever ways. You will fall in love with the characters. The Chief is such a perfect end to a great series of books, full of action, suspense and steamy romances!

[Carole Burant · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited when I learned that Rory would end up having his own story so it was an absolute thrill to read it and simply put....I loved it!! When we first met Rory in the previous books of the series, he came across as carefree and not taking life seriously, more than happy to let his twin, Terric, be Chief to their clan. Only one person sees through him and that's Cristane, his sister's lady's maid.

Cristane has always loved him from afar and it takes a St. Valentine's feast and its traditions, to open Rory's eyes to her feelings. His true personality also comes out when he must make decisions for the clan in the absence of his brother.

This novella was so well written and considering it's difficult to develop the characters fully when it's a short story, Cecelia Mecca makes it happen and gives us a powerful and delightful story for us to swoon over:)

I was given an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Greta · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was happy to find out that the Broken Blades series was not quite completed and that Rory received his own story of love and just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Rory Kennaugh is Terric’s twin and also his second as chief to their clan. He has been friends with Cristane, who is his sister Cait’s maid, since they were younger. She has been in love with him ever since. She is waiting for Cait to bring her to her new home in England. But it is the day of the St. Valentine feast and Rory starts to see Cristane in a different light. But there is a conflict with another clan going on and the ever present question of Rory taking over as chief. Will they be able to get over their personal, social, and clan issues to be together? It’s a sweet, sexy and quick read that you don’t want to miss! I received an ARC of this book and chose to post my review.

[Annette Drewett · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful addition this book is to the Order of the Broken Blade series. Rory certainly comes into his own in this story. His confidence grows stronger and when his leadership skills are put to the test, he comes through with flying colours. Cristane has risen from a lowly maid to lady’s maid for Rory’s sister Cait. She has had feelings for Rory for a long time but knows nothing can ever come from them. Circumstances keep putting these two delightful characters together, but will love ever win through? I really enjoyed this story and am glad Rory was given his own tale. Don’t miss this one.

[Jeanne Okerlund · Rating 5 out of 5]

A love story for the ages!

I love that Rory was able to get his own story. Roy and Cristane have been friends for years. Cristane worked her way up to Cait's lady's maid. Now that Cait was gone Cait didn't have any responsibilities. However much she tries to help in other areas, she was always sent away.

Now it's St. Valentine's day and the traditions they had put Cristane on the spot with Rory.

Rory and Cristane's is a very entertaining story!

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great surprise to get another story out of the Order of the Broken Blade. Cecelia really blessed us with this surprise novella story. I appreciate every word she gives us, but would have loved to have a longer story here. That goes to show how good it is. I definitely could have read more. It was good to read about these two characters who have to overcome obstacles like their very different stations in life. It is a nice sweet love story that I'm sure you will love as much as I did.

[Brenda Moser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book five in the series brings Rory and Cristane's story. The author once again brings strong,well developed characters and en entertaining story line. She brings it to life , taking you back to the day with her descriptive writing and vividly painted scenes. It's a friends to lovers romance with a heartfelt story line. I loved reading their story and would recommend this book/series.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.

[Jess Boschock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just wow. A perfect ending to the Broken Blade series. I was so happy to find out Ceecila was suprising us with Rory's story. He is the twin brother of Terric. We get glimpses of him throughout the series so I highly suggest all the other books if you haven't read them yet. Rory and Cristane have such a romantic story that you don't want to miss! This Valentines Day feast is all you'll need in the name of love. Thank you Cecelia for another fantastic read!

[Janet Denise Ross · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 STARS, ST VALENTINE'S FEAST DAY WOMEN WATCH WHO THEY SEE FIRST

Cecelia Mecca gives a wonderful & exciting storyline to her well known Series: Order of the Broken Blade Book 5. Interesting characters with some from previous books in the series. This is medieval Scotland with beliefs of their own especially when it has to do with Saint's & feast days.

This one hones in on Saint Valentine's Day, a day of feasting, dancing, & some declaring sweethearts. Lot of teasing goes on usually on these days because the customs brings together the women, for example: regardless of place in life or the clan will gather together for some lighthearted teasing & customs.

An enemy clan is rumored to have help from France to try to take over other clans. This is just one of the problems on Rory's mind after the St Valentine's Feast. Rory is the his brother's the Clan's Chief second & is in control while his brother uses his English title of Earl & resides at his English Estate with his wife. Their father once talked of one son an Earl & the other the Clan's Chief but never made provisions for it to occur. Everyone who was close to Rory knew he played dumb around his brother like he had no ideas at all.

Now, however, things need to change Rory has discovered he is in love after lots of bungling. It is interesting reading how Rory overcomes his obstacles.

RECOMMENDED

[Bridget Love to read Lewis]

A long awaited love

Cristane has loved Rory for years! St Valentine preparation caused Rory to see her differently. Cristane suffered jealousy from other women in the Castle just because she risen so far above her lowly status to a lady maid! Rory is torn he's loyal to his brother but doubts his own abilities to truly lead the clan! When war is threatened will Rory use his instincts in wise counsel? In the past Rory has not used all his gifts to lead the clan effectively! Will Cristane help him change his mind? I love this series now Darron needs a story next......

[Crystal Butler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story

Rory is Terric’s brother and his second at Clan Kennaugh while Terric is in London. Terric wants to make his brother chief so he can stay in England with his wife but he feels that Rory is not ready.

Christine was Cait’s lady maid before she went to England and was married. Christine had loved Rory since they were young. When Valentine day comes it is said that the first man you see that day will be the one you marry. Christine goes to the stable and who does she see but Rory.

[Jeanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Too sweet for words!

Of course Rory Kennaugh, Terric's twin and second in command is swoon worthy, chiseled and oblivious to the woman who has loved him for years as his sister closest friend and one of his too, until something opens his eyes and he must have her now! Poor Cristane! Patience of a saint, but with Rory to lust after, it can't be all that bad, thank goodness for St. Valentine's feast day traditions sparking flames! Loved this series and so happy for Rory's hea!

[Robin Ulmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding!!! I read the second series first so I was a little confused

I'm going to go back and figure out who is who. One book has a family tree. Don't remember which one. . I'll look for it first. It would be helpful to see it in all the books in both series. I think I've read all the Cecelia Mecca books that I want now. Excellent!! I don't care for fantasy, time travel, or contemporary.

[Amy Brautigam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rory and Christane

Cecelia Mecca writes such fascinating tales. Rory and Christane have known each other a long time. Rory has no idea Christane loves him more than a friend. Christane thinks Rory is out of her reach until a castle tradition brings them together. Such a lovely way to end a romantic series. Just wish it was a bit longer!

[Ann Gonzalez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely

This book was a lovely addition to the series. I was hoping Rory would become chief. Not only did he become chief, but he also found love. I immediately liked Crust and and feel that Rory made a great decision in picking her. I hope Darron will find love too. Who knows? Maybe this St. Valentine day we will all find something or someone special.