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Knights Of Enar #2
Knight's Oath
When 20-year-old Eliana’s father orders her to court, it is with one purpose: to save their noble, destitute family through marriage to a wealthy suitor. Eliana would much rather be studying healing and making use of her rare magical talent for medicines, but there is no escaping his command. She has eight short weeks to find a match she can stomach, or else she’ll be married off to the cruel, despicable man of her father’s choosing.
Navigating court politics is difficult for nervous Eliana, who is determined to take up as little space as possible. Worst of all, she only has eyes for the Queen’s nephew, Corin: a brooding, rugged knight who is already betrothed to another. Though he returns Eliana's feelings, he’s as trapped by duty as she is. But even as Corin struggles against his own family's shackles, he is driven by a singular purpose: to rid the land of the bandits terrorizing the Queen's people.
As the outlaws circle the capital city, Corin and Eliana turn their focus and their talents towards helping the vulnerable common folk who live outside the palace walls. But the bandits have a patron who aims to spread dissent amongst the crumbling ranks of the nobility. The more lives Corin and Eliana save, the more enemies they are both making… and the closer her father’s deadline draws.
This slow-burn friends-to-lovers explores an exciting new fantasy kingdom with subtle magic, steamy encounters, and danger lurking around every bend.
Navigating court politics is difficult for nervous Eliana, who is determined to take up as little space as possible. Worst of all, she only has eyes for the Queen’s nephew, Corin: a brooding, rugged knight who is already betrothed to another. Though he returns Eliana's feelings, he’s as trapped by duty as she is. But even as Corin struggles against his own family's shackles, he is driven by a singular purpose: to rid the land of the bandits terrorizing the Queen's people.
As the outlaws circle the capital city, Corin and Eliana turn their focus and their talents towards helping the vulnerable common folk who live outside the palace walls. But the bandits have a patron who aims to spread dissent amongst the crumbling ranks of the nobility. The more lives Corin and Eliana save, the more enemies they are both making… and the closer her father’s deadline draws.
This slow-burn friends-to-lovers explores an exciting new fantasy kingdom with subtle magic, steamy encounters, and danger lurking around every bend.
488 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 15, 2022
69 people are currently reading
802 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
April 12, 2024
4☆ WHY are there only 2 Juliette Caruso books?? Not cool, Juliette Caruso. Not cool at all.
❦➳ “You seem to think I’m a better man than I am,” he told her, his voice dangerous and quiet. “Your heart may be the best thing about you, Eliana, but that’s not what keeps me up at night.”
No need to wonder if Knight's Bride was a lucky one-off from this fairly new author. I LOVE HOW THIS WOMAN WRITES. I can't put her books down, even while pretending to cook. It's actually dangerous.
This is her debut; you might like it if you’re into historical romantasy, flawed, well-developed characters, court intrigue, knights and healers in action, forbidden love, bandits, ride-or-die BFFs, and delicious slow-burn sensuality.🙌 You could read this as a standalone, but you’d miss the awesome story of Rachiele and Telon in Book 1 (the BFF couple in this one). For me, Rachiele was an easier heroine to love right away, whereas Eliana starts out extremely chaste and timid and rigid. To be fair, she’s sort of right to be cautious due to the weird prejudices against her powers, and she definitely grows and demonstrates courage, passion, and independence over the course of the story. Now, Corin...Corin can bring his grumpy, glaring, sweet, sexy, damaged warrior self through my window any damn time. I would have liked him to give his precious honor the day off to unalive a certain mega-villain. Maybe in Book 3; I'm hoping it's Neil's story next, and that he proves to be as misunderstood and redeemable as I think he is. And I'm hoping it comes out tomorrow.
❦➳ “I think you’re a wonder.” He looked at her in surprise, the handkerchief still in his hands. “I think you endured something nobody should endure, and I think you became a man who anybody could admire.”
The burn was slow but it. Paid. OFF. 🥵 When Eliana and Corin finally jump each other, the author flexes some excellent smut-writing muscles. I will say that the second half is more exciting and action-packed and suspenseful (and steamy), so maybe give it time. Only bothersome writing issue was the "Are you ok?" anachronism. This book is much longer than Knight's Bride, but I honestly wouldn’t want to miss any of it. Can’t wait for more of this world. Tick-tock, Juliette Caruso.
❦➳ “You seem to think I’m a better man than I am,” he told her, his voice dangerous and quiet. “Your heart may be the best thing about you, Eliana, but that’s not what keeps me up at night.”
No need to wonder if Knight's Bride was a lucky one-off from this fairly new author. I LOVE HOW THIS WOMAN WRITES. I can't put her books down, even while pretending to cook. It's actually dangerous.
This is her debut; you might like it if you’re into historical romantasy, flawed, well-developed characters, court intrigue, knights and healers in action, forbidden love, bandits, ride-or-die BFFs, and delicious slow-burn sensuality.🙌 You could read this as a standalone, but you’d miss the awesome story of Rachiele and Telon in Book 1 (the BFF couple in this one). For me, Rachiele was an easier heroine to love right away, whereas Eliana starts out extremely chaste and timid and rigid. To be fair, she’s sort of right to be cautious due to the weird prejudices against her powers, and she definitely grows and demonstrates courage, passion, and independence over the course of the story. Now, Corin...Corin can bring his grumpy, glaring, sweet, sexy, damaged warrior self through my window any damn time. I would have liked him to give his precious honor the day off to unalive a certain mega-villain. Maybe in Book 3; I'm hoping it's Neil's story next, and that he proves to be as misunderstood and redeemable as I think he is. And I'm hoping it comes out tomorrow.
❦➳ “I think you’re a wonder.” He looked at her in surprise, the handkerchief still in his hands. “I think you endured something nobody should endure, and I think you became a man who anybody could admire.”
The burn was slow but it. Paid. OFF. 🥵 When Eliana and Corin finally jump each other, the author flexes some excellent smut-writing muscles. I will say that the second half is more exciting and action-packed and suspenseful (and steamy), so maybe give it time. Only bothersome writing issue was the "Are you ok?" anachronism. This book is much longer than Knight's Bride, but I honestly wouldn’t want to miss any of it. Can’t wait for more of this world. Tick-tock, Juliette Caruso.
July 28, 2022
I'm going to preface this review by saying that I've been an avid reader my entire life. As of the past eight or so months, I've been really disappointed with the direction some of the books/ongoing comics I've picked up have gone (1. Booktok can be a very bamboozling place, 2. fan service seems more prevalent nowadays and it annoys me to no end and 3. I'm also a writer with a very analytical mind, so it can be difficult for me to suspend my disbelief: "Why didn't Character A do THIS instead?" (Yes, I recognize that a LOT of this is on me lol.) Needless to say, lately I've been hesitant/particular when it comes to starting new stories.
But when Juliette reached out to me and asked if I'd read a copy of Knight's Oath, I finished it in one day. I literally could NOT put it down and I can't remember the last time that happened to me. So take that as you will if you're having any doubts about starting this novel!
From the very beginning, I loved Eliana. She's such a relatable character, from her anxiety and uncertainty to her curvy body and the self-consciousness that can come with that territory. It's not often enough that you see plus-sized heroines represented in modern media and being a size 10 woman myself, I appreciate the inclusivity!
And Corin... I have no words for how much I adore him. He's not a "knight in shining armor" by any means. He's imperfect, impulsive, tending to react with his heart instead of his mind, but all of this makes him so REAL. Even knowing his shortcomings, his other qualities (his protectiveness over his friends/Eliana, his loyalty to Eliana and his dedication to serving the common folk of the kingdom, I CAN GO ON) outshine his flaws by miles.
And I'm just as invested in the supporting characters as I am Corin and Eliana! Telon and Rachiele are the best friends we all need. In every century. Any story. Period. I can't sing their praises loud enough.
The plot itself is subtle, containing elements often found in medieval fantasy stories but the WAY it's written is so captivating! Juliette's narrative voice is so beautiful and descriptive without being overly flowery or complex. Each arc flows seamlessly into the next and while the details about Eliana's healing abilities are few, I appreciate that this is just part one of a series and look forward to them being explored further (aka already starving for the sequel lol.)
The slow burn romance is just that: it's slow, gradually building in a realistic way and when it burns, it BURNS 🔥 Spice is just a small part of this story, but definitely worth mentioning as it felt appropriately paced and natural, like the characters earned every encounter.
Hands down my favorite read of 2022 and you should read it so it can become yours too 😉
But when Juliette reached out to me and asked if I'd read a copy of Knight's Oath, I finished it in one day. I literally could NOT put it down and I can't remember the last time that happened to me. So take that as you will if you're having any doubts about starting this novel!
From the very beginning, I loved Eliana. She's such a relatable character, from her anxiety and uncertainty to her curvy body and the self-consciousness that can come with that territory. It's not often enough that you see plus-sized heroines represented in modern media and being a size 10 woman myself, I appreciate the inclusivity!
And Corin... I have no words for how much I adore him. He's not a "knight in shining armor" by any means. He's imperfect, impulsive, tending to react with his heart instead of his mind, but all of this makes him so REAL. Even knowing his shortcomings, his other qualities (his protectiveness over his friends/Eliana, his loyalty to Eliana and his dedication to serving the common folk of the kingdom, I CAN GO ON) outshine his flaws by miles.
And I'm just as invested in the supporting characters as I am Corin and Eliana! Telon and Rachiele are the best friends we all need. In every century. Any story. Period. I can't sing their praises loud enough.
The plot itself is subtle, containing elements often found in medieval fantasy stories but the WAY it's written is so captivating! Juliette's narrative voice is so beautiful and descriptive without being overly flowery or complex. Each arc flows seamlessly into the next and while the details about Eliana's healing abilities are few, I appreciate that this is just part one of a series and look forward to them being explored further (aka already starving for the sequel lol.)
The slow burn romance is just that: it's slow, gradually building in a realistic way and when it burns, it BURNS 🔥 Spice is just a small part of this story, but definitely worth mentioning as it felt appropriately paced and natural, like the characters earned every encounter.
Hands down my favorite read of 2022 and you should read it so it can become yours too 😉
August 27, 2022
TLDR : Slowburn, friends-to-lovers full of angst and pining with a medieval background. Knight’s Oath was a gripping story and while reading I was captivated by detailed worldbuilding. This book reminded me of Ruby Dixon’s Aspect and Anchor series, only with less adventure and more court politics.
***
Eliana is ordered to court by her father so that she can secure a marriage to a wealthy suitor and save their family from financial disaster. There, she spends most of her time surrounded by her close friends and Corin, the Queen’s nephew, the handsome knight. Corin’s already betrothed to another but as the two become close friends, they can't help but start to develop feelings for each other.
This was a long book and in terms of romance, definitely a slowburn despite the fact that the main characters had the hots for each other since their first meeting. The friendship between Eliana and Corin develops over time and they share a lot of things with each other along the way. Their interactions were really sweet and there are some scenes that will live in my head forever now. As the main couple they give all the drama one would expect from them. There’s jealousy, fights and misunderstandings. There’s long separations, endless obstacles, pining and angst. There’s self-doubt and anxiety. Theirs is a long journey but it reaches a happy end.
The supporting characters, Rachiele and Telon were as interesting as the main couple. I was so happy to see that those two got lots of screen time and we got to know them as well. But romance isn’t the only thing on the menu. There are a lot of things going on at the same time and on the background. For example, the bandits who keep attacking villages and to whom most of the action is related.
At the end, there were some unanswered questions. Eliana’s gift is not thoroughly explored and Corin’s family (his father and his brother) is still wrapped in mystery. I can only hope that it means there will be a second book. Maybe with Niel as the main character. He didn’t seem as bad as everyone made him out to be. And I’d love me some morally grey dickhead who hides a cinnamon roll underneath.
The fact that I’m this much interested in the fates of other characters speaks volumes imo. I’m now invested in this world. I want this to be a series : A book where they go on an adventure to discover that dragon’s nest. A book where we get to see the bandits more, their lives, their cause -if there is one. A book about Tamsin, the archer. A book about the paladins (the female guards/warriors). I want to explore all these little details.
All in all, I loved this book. My only problem was that, even though Eliana’s growth throughout the book was impressive, she tended to be a bit self righteous.
***
Many thanks to Booksprout and the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
***
Eliana is ordered to court by her father so that she can secure a marriage to a wealthy suitor and save their family from financial disaster. There, she spends most of her time surrounded by her close friends and Corin, the Queen’s nephew, the handsome knight. Corin’s already betrothed to another but as the two become close friends, they can't help but start to develop feelings for each other.
This was a long book and in terms of romance, definitely a slowburn despite the fact that the main characters had the hots for each other since their first meeting. The friendship between Eliana and Corin develops over time and they share a lot of things with each other along the way. Their interactions were really sweet and there are some scenes that will live in my head forever now. As the main couple they give all the drama one would expect from them. There’s jealousy, fights and misunderstandings. There’s long separations, endless obstacles, pining and angst. There’s self-doubt and anxiety. Theirs is a long journey but it reaches a happy end.
The supporting characters, Rachiele and Telon were as interesting as the main couple. I was so happy to see that those two got lots of screen time and we got to know them as well. But romance isn’t the only thing on the menu. There are a lot of things going on at the same time and on the background. For example, the bandits who keep attacking villages and to whom most of the action is related.
At the end, there were some unanswered questions. Eliana’s gift is not thoroughly explored and Corin’s family (his father and his brother) is still wrapped in mystery. I can only hope that it means there will be a second book. Maybe with Niel as the main character. He didn’t seem as bad as everyone made him out to be. And I’d love me some morally grey dickhead who hides a cinnamon roll underneath.
The fact that I’m this much interested in the fates of other characters speaks volumes imo. I’m now invested in this world. I want this to be a series : A book where they go on an adventure to discover that dragon’s nest. A book where we get to see the bandits more, their lives, their cause -if there is one. A book about Tamsin, the archer. A book about the paladins (the female guards/warriors). I want to explore all these little details.
All in all, I loved this book. My only problem was that, even though Eliana’s growth throughout the book was impressive, she tended to be a bit self righteous.
***
Many thanks to Booksprout and the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 25, 2022
my absolute favourite thing about this book was the inclusion of plus sized characters. for some reason this isn’t a common feature in fantasy books, and i found it rather refreshing. i particularly liked how eliana never once tried to lose weight or shamed herself for being bigger.
all of the characters in knight’s oath were loveable and relatable. eliana and rachiele were two strong women, with a loving friendship. i could read a book where it’s just those two all day long.
corin on the other hand was a bit more complex. at first, he’s portrayed as mysterious. after a bit, all mysteriousness has gone out the window (wherein he becomes like a lost puppy).
i loved the plot of this book. i was hooked the whole way through and didn’t get bored. the use of magic was well written into the story, and i’m eager to see where things with go with eliana after the events at the end.
i found the insta love to be a bit much (they’re literally making googly eyes at one another from the first moment they meet). although the book description says “slow burn”, but i’m pretty sure love at first sight is the opposite of slow burn. (this is the only reason the book didn’t get 5 stars from me)
overall, knight’s oath was a good blend of historical fiction and fantasy and i look forward to reading the next book in the series.
all of the characters in knight’s oath were loveable and relatable. eliana and rachiele were two strong women, with a loving friendship. i could read a book where it’s just those two all day long.
corin on the other hand was a bit more complex. at first, he’s portrayed as mysterious. after a bit, all mysteriousness has gone out the window (wherein he becomes like a lost puppy).
i loved the plot of this book. i was hooked the whole way through and didn’t get bored. the use of magic was well written into the story, and i’m eager to see where things with go with eliana after the events at the end.
i found the insta love to be a bit much (they’re literally making googly eyes at one another from the first moment they meet). although the book description says “slow burn”, but i’m pretty sure love at first sight is the opposite of slow burn. (this is the only reason the book didn’t get 5 stars from me)
overall, knight’s oath was a good blend of historical fiction and fantasy and i look forward to reading the next book in the series.
September 25, 2022
3.5 stars - very well written, but I don't know if I just didn't manage my expectations well enough with this novel.
I was hoping for a fantasy first, romance second kind of story, which this was not. It was very heavy on the romance, which was fine, the chemistry was there and it was mostly fun to read. Corin did annoy me sometimes, and it did feel like a constant 'will they? Won't they? Oh so they are... But now not again?' This was very annoying.
The fantasy elements that were there were much too limited for my liking, and maybe these will be further explored in book 2, but with no cliffhanger at the end of this book, I'm not exactly on the edge of my seat waiting for it.
I also feel like there was very little to no threat at all in this book. We only saw snippets of obstacles like bandits, but it was very unclear who the real bad guy was. I felt that there were a lot of characters introduced that could have been made a lot more ominous, but they just seemed to fade into the background.
Anyway, I can't say I hated it, but it didn't need to be nearly 500 pages long, and it could've been a lot more interesting within those pages.
I was hoping for a fantasy first, romance second kind of story, which this was not. It was very heavy on the romance, which was fine, the chemistry was there and it was mostly fun to read. Corin did annoy me sometimes, and it did feel like a constant 'will they? Won't they? Oh so they are... But now not again?' This was very annoying.
The fantasy elements that were there were much too limited for my liking, and maybe these will be further explored in book 2, but with no cliffhanger at the end of this book, I'm not exactly on the edge of my seat waiting for it.
I also feel like there was very little to no threat at all in this book. We only saw snippets of obstacles like bandits, but it was very unclear who the real bad guy was. I felt that there were a lot of characters introduced that could have been made a lot more ominous, but they just seemed to fade into the background.
Anyway, I can't say I hated it, but it didn't need to be nearly 500 pages long, and it could've been a lot more interesting within those pages.
September 6, 2022
I started this book because I thought the cover was adorable.
But wow this was such a dreamy read! I absolutely loved everything about this. It reminded me of being young and daydreaming about dashing knights and enchanting ladies, wishing I could have someone sweep me off my feet. I’m 100% here for everything from the friendships to the magic, love and sword fighting.
This read felt like my old comfort reads as a teenager, very similar to a read by tamora pierce and Kristen Britain but add in some steamy scenes.
But wow this was such a dreamy read! I absolutely loved everything about this. It reminded me of being young and daydreaming about dashing knights and enchanting ladies, wishing I could have someone sweep me off my feet. I’m 100% here for everything from the friendships to the magic, love and sword fighting.
This read felt like my old comfort reads as a teenager, very similar to a read by tamora pierce and Kristen Britain but add in some steamy scenes.
August 23, 2022
Yay for a good KU find!
This was a fun historical romance with some drama, danger, and a few steamy scenes between the mains!
Will look out for the next book in the series~and a new couple.
This was a fun historical romance with some drama, danger, and a few steamy scenes between the mains!
Will look out for the next book in the series~and a new couple.
September 23, 2022
The cover is the first thing that grabbed my attention about this book. It looked really good and while there are a lot of things that did go right in this book, there were things that just didn't quite make the mark for me.
First off, this book had the friends to lovers and one horse trope, both of which I am a huge sucker for. I really thought I was going to love this book! While I was reading it I liked it, but writing this review has taken a few stars down. The friends to lovers was done a little bit too quickly for me (you could honestly say they were never friends). If I remember right this book takes place over the course of just a few months, and for them to be married by the end, not just together, but starting a whole life together after two months of knowing each other. I wanted a good slow burn!
I really like Eliana's character. What really made me like her is when they went to the children's home to see what could be done for Lucan, but instead the two friends keep them, but after seeing how little help the place has she goes back, I liked that we got to see her interacting with the children, (even if it was a plot device later on).
I liked Corin in the beginning, but when Eliana and he started to confess their feelings to each other and he wouldn't break his engagement… and then he complains when she won't? Come on. Also, it just bugs the frack out of me when the guy is portrayed as a gentleman (in this case he is quite literally a knight) but then climbs into her room through the window, and it's obvious that she doesn’t want to really do anything, but he continues to do something. If I was rating this book solely based on this and how it happens multiple times throughout the book, the book would be a one or two star. Please do not give the impression of a gentleman and claim you love her for who she is and her mind if you literally jump at any chance of having sex! I also feel like Corin trying to stand up to his father was a joke, terrible, and he didn't even really fight for Eliana in that way.
We're not going to talk about when Corin gets mad at her for not wanting to give up the engagement to the Duke. Eliana is not able to make a living for herself, she has to marry rich for her family, and her father literally wanted to marry her off to someone who basically was blackmailing her!!!!!!, this, THIS please I cannot even. Women do not have rights in this book as it's set in medieval times. She cannot even say no to the guy who's blackmailing her that she doesn't want to go ride horses with him! Her father will sell her off to the highest bidder because he cannot make money on his own. He lost money because of his own choices! Her father thinks that she's not good enough for university and the only thing she's good for is A BRIDE PRICE? Please do not get me started on this topic…. Her father says this to her after she tries to convince him to let her marry Corin, "Am I to have you beaten? Shall I deliver you to Lord Mikel gagged and tied? Are you that contrary?" yes I AM.
I think I was really thrown off by the time span of this book, I wish it was just a few months longer. Or that they had to separate at the end, Eliana had a long engagement with the Duke of Dencai, and then got back together after Corin proved that he was going to fight his father for her.
I'm going to round down on my original 3 stars to 2. I enjoyed reading this book so I guess it's more like 2.75? Writing this review had me looking back at the notes I made and I really did not like Corin for the last half of the book.
I'm going on and going to guess that the second book is going to be about Neil??? Honestly, I could see why he would hate Corin, and I wish their relationship was explored more in this book. Another thing that I couldn't stop thinking about is if the Duke of Eyron treats his sons this way how does he treat his wife? And when Corin asks his mother to come with him she says she cannot, if she went she would probably be shunned from all society, and she would have no way to make any money or a living for herself, one because she probably was raised to be a duchess and nothing else, and two, NOBODY WOULD HIRE A WOMAN.
The writing style is good and the author has potential so I'll be reading her next book.
2.7/5 stars
First off, this book had the friends to lovers and one horse trope, both of which I am a huge sucker for. I really thought I was going to love this book! While I was reading it I liked it, but writing this review has taken a few stars down. The friends to lovers was done a little bit too quickly for me (you could honestly say they were never friends). If I remember right this book takes place over the course of just a few months, and for them to be married by the end, not just together, but starting a whole life together after two months of knowing each other. I wanted a good slow burn!
I really like Eliana's character. What really made me like her is when they went to the children's home to see what could be done for Lucan, but instead the two friends keep them, but after seeing how little help the place has she goes back, I liked that we got to see her interacting with the children, (even if it was a plot device later on).
I liked Corin in the beginning, but when Eliana and he started to confess their feelings to each other and he wouldn't break his engagement… and then he complains when she won't? Come on. Also, it just bugs the frack out of me when the guy is portrayed as a gentleman (in this case he is quite literally a knight) but then climbs into her room through the window, and it's obvious that she doesn’t want to really do anything, but he continues to do something. If I was rating this book solely based on this and how it happens multiple times throughout the book, the book would be a one or two star. Please do not give the impression of a gentleman and claim you love her for who she is and her mind if you literally jump at any chance of having sex! I also feel like Corin trying to stand up to his father was a joke, terrible, and he didn't even really fight for Eliana in that way.
We're not going to talk about when Corin gets mad at her for not wanting to give up the engagement to the Duke. Eliana is not able to make a living for herself, she has to marry rich for her family, and her father literally wanted to marry her off to someone who basically was blackmailing her!!!!!!, this, THIS please I cannot even. Women do not have rights in this book as it's set in medieval times. She cannot even say no to the guy who's blackmailing her that she doesn't want to go ride horses with him! Her father will sell her off to the highest bidder because he cannot make money on his own. He lost money because of his own choices! Her father thinks that she's not good enough for university and the only thing she's good for is A BRIDE PRICE? Please do not get me started on this topic…. Her father says this to her after she tries to convince him to let her marry Corin, "Am I to have you beaten? Shall I deliver you to Lord Mikel gagged and tied? Are you that contrary?" yes I AM.
I think I was really thrown off by the time span of this book, I wish it was just a few months longer. Or that they had to separate at the end, Eliana had a long engagement with the Duke of Dencai, and then got back together after Corin proved that he was going to fight his father for her.
I'm going to round down on my original 3 stars to 2. I enjoyed reading this book so I guess it's more like 2.75? Writing this review had me looking back at the notes I made and I really did not like Corin for the last half of the book.
I'm going on and going to guess that the second book is going to be about Neil??? Honestly, I could see why he would hate Corin, and I wish their relationship was explored more in this book. Another thing that I couldn't stop thinking about is if the Duke of Eyron treats his sons this way how does he treat his wife? And when Corin asks his mother to come with him she says she cannot, if she went she would probably be shunned from all society, and she would have no way to make any money or a living for herself, one because she probably was raised to be a duchess and nothing else, and two, NOBODY WOULD HIRE A WOMAN.
The writing style is good and the author has potential so I'll be reading her next book.
2.7/5 stars
March 10, 2025
Shocker, but I really liked this one even more than the first book. The MCs were enjoyable with their personalities and motivations and internal longing keeping me up very late reading. I liked them, and the MC was especially swoon worthy.
I really love a good forbidden-ish romance, and this one fulfilled that trope with lots of subtle glances/touches, stolen moments, longing, a bit of possessiveness, some jealousy, secret acts of service, etc. These two and their feelings for each other were the worst kept secret in the palace and I loved every moment of it.
It had some drawbacks though.
This book is long with most of its driving force being their mutual internal angst. That's exactly what I like in a book, so it didn't bother me much, but I will admit that I would have liked to have seen more of the bandit hunting or more of her time at the orphanage or making ailments for all the pages we were put through having to read.
‼️ SPOILER ‼️
Most frustratingly, it annoyed me that the FMC begged the MMC to break his proposal and (understandably) wouldn't even consider him until he agreed to, fantasized about it even...but when he finally did, she refused to go against her father! Even when he was begginggggg her to choose him like he'd chosen her. I understand her hesitancy after learning that he'd have to become a commoner (what did she think would happen if he went against his father? lol), but she kept doom spiraling about how poor their life would be, and then told him she didn't care about that while absolutely only caring about that. I could have supported her if she had picked a stance (any stance!) and kept to it, but she waffled multiple times at the end, even being upset about the final solution to the point where he was questioning whether it would still be enough for her. She hadn't been wishy washy like that throughout the rest of the book, so it was off-putting.
Anyway, this was a nice read. A slowwwwww burn standalone romance with fantasy themes. The best of both worlds.
And this didn't affect my rating, but this book actually made me not like the couple from the last book, even though I liked them a lot in that book. They seemed very different here (or maybe I just didn't like them in comparison?), and I'm glad I read that book first because if I had read this one first I wouldn't have ever gone back to read that one. Along the same lines, Corin (the MC) felt different as a main character in this book than in the last book as a side character, even in the very beginning of the story. I haven't read others of this author's books so idk if that's normal for her or not.
Edit: spelling, grammar, and other errors bc I typed this out earlier without reading through it.
I really love a good forbidden-ish romance, and this one fulfilled that trope with lots of subtle glances/touches, stolen moments, longing, a bit of possessiveness, some jealousy, secret acts of service, etc. These two and their feelings for each other were the worst kept secret in the palace and I loved every moment of it.
It had some drawbacks though.
This book is long with most of its driving force being their mutual internal angst. That's exactly what I like in a book, so it didn't bother me much, but I will admit that I would have liked to have seen more of the bandit hunting or more of her time at the orphanage or making ailments for all the pages we were put through having to read.
‼️ SPOILER ‼️
Most frustratingly, it annoyed me that the FMC begged the MMC to break his proposal and (understandably) wouldn't even consider him until he agreed to, fantasized about it even...but when he finally did, she refused to go against her father! Even when he was begginggggg her to choose him like he'd chosen her. I understand her hesitancy after learning that he'd have to become a commoner (what did she think would happen if he went against his father? lol), but she kept doom spiraling about how poor their life would be, and then told him she didn't care about that while absolutely only caring about that. I could have supported her if she had picked a stance (any stance!) and kept to it, but she waffled multiple times at the end, even being upset about the final solution to the point where he was questioning whether it would still be enough for her. She hadn't been wishy washy like that throughout the rest of the book, so it was off-putting.
Anyway, this was a nice read. A slowwwwww burn standalone romance with fantasy themes. The best of both worlds.
And this didn't affect my rating, but this book actually made me not like the couple from the last book, even though I liked them a lot in that book. They seemed very different here (or maybe I just didn't like them in comparison?), and I'm glad I read that book first because if I had read this one first I wouldn't have ever gone back to read that one. Along the same lines, Corin (the MC) felt different as a main character in this book than in the last book as a side character, even in the very beginning of the story. I haven't read others of this author's books so idk if that's normal for her or not.
Edit: spelling, grammar, and other errors bc I typed this out earlier without reading through it.
August 4, 2022
*Friends to Lovers
*Slow Burn [First kiss at 34% everything else after 50%]
*One bed
I loved the slow build of the characters relationship and how El slowly grew to be more comfortable with her body.
I also enjoyed the side characters story. It added the right amount of filler to keep the slowness of the slow burn going and show case the MCs characteristics and mannerisms.
The author did a fantastic job of describing her world and all the elements that went along with it. Ex. The clothing and social statuses.
I would have gave it 5 stars if the author introduced some of the “spice” sooner but I after reading for longer it does add to the authenticity of their relationship. I still rank it 4.5 stars though.
*Slow Burn [First kiss at 34% everything else after 50%]
*One bed
I loved the slow build of the characters relationship and how El slowly grew to be more comfortable with her body.
I also enjoyed the side characters story. It added the right amount of filler to keep the slowness of the slow burn going and show case the MCs characteristics and mannerisms.
The author did a fantastic job of describing her world and all the elements that went along with it. Ex. The clothing and social statuses.
I would have gave it 5 stars if the author introduced some of the “spice” sooner but I after reading for longer it does add to the authenticity of their relationship. I still rank it 4.5 stars though.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2023
Easy five stars. I love Juliette’s writing style so much. It took me a week to read because of the holidays and I could not stop thinking about it the entire time. I have never related to a character as much as I relate to Eliana, and Corin has my entire heart. (And I thought I adored Telon!!) I desperately hope we’ll get more books in this world because I’m dying to know more about certain other characters!!!!
Read
May 8, 2024I am SO excited to start narrating this book!! Narrating the first in the series was a blast. I love Juliette's writing, full of wit, tension, magic, and romance.
July 8, 2022
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
There is so much to love about Knight's Oath. Telon and Rachiele are some of the best supporting characters I've read in ages. Their unwavering loyalty and affection for our leads, Eliana and Corin, is superb. It isn't often I have such strong feelings for a couple other than the main one, but I adore them and they deserve all the good things. The end of the novel has enough resolution that it feels satisfying, but there are some elements that I don't think were finished being addressed, such as Eliana's gift, so I'm hoping this will be the first in a series instead of a standalone. Either way it is a lovely slow-burn romance and you should give it a chance. For Telon and Rachiele especially.
There is so much to love about Knight's Oath. Telon and Rachiele are some of the best supporting characters I've read in ages. Their unwavering loyalty and affection for our leads, Eliana and Corin, is superb. It isn't often I have such strong feelings for a couple other than the main one, but I adore them and they deserve all the good things. The end of the novel has enough resolution that it feels satisfying, but there are some elements that I don't think were finished being addressed, such as Eliana's gift, so I'm hoping this will be the first in a series instead of a standalone. Either way it is a lovely slow-burn romance and you should give it a chance. For Telon and Rachiele especially.
August 12, 2022
It was a lovely read!
Strangers to friends to lovers. I love the MC, Eliana, and actually relate to her struggles as plus-sized girl. I love how she is depicted her, and her worries and constant fear of being judged is very relatable. I also love Corin! He is so cute haha. Telon and Rachiele are such fun characters too! They are such good friends to Eliana and Corin.
The very little downside for me is I wish we get to know more about Neil and Corin's family problems, because it was kinda vague. Also I think the middle part is a little too long (the part when they know they want to be together, but couldn't, and thus keep pulling and pushing each other). I think it could be tightened up a bit.
Overall, it was a great book and I will recommend it to those who would love to read casual, light and sweet, fairytale!
Strangers to friends to lovers. I love the MC, Eliana, and actually relate to her struggles as plus-sized girl. I love how she is depicted her, and her worries and constant fear of being judged is very relatable. I also love Corin! He is so cute haha. Telon and Rachiele are such fun characters too! They are such good friends to Eliana and Corin.
The very little downside for me is I wish we get to know more about Neil and Corin's family problems, because it was kinda vague. Also I think the middle part is a little too long (the part when they know they want to be together, but couldn't, and thus keep pulling and pushing each other). I think it could be tightened up a bit.
Overall, it was a great book and I will recommend it to those who would love to read casual, light and sweet, fairytale!
May 28, 2025
If I hadn't needed to read it so badly, I could have gnawed through this book out of frenetic obsession.
Two years after Knight's Bride, Eliana is sent to court with a deadline. Her lord father's province is struggling financially, and she needs to marry into money, fast. At the convent where she studied, she was a gifted healer with a magical touch; at court, she's shy, out of place, and too willing to please. Of the men she is introduced to, she's drawn to only one: Corin, a surly knight, rough around the edges but with unstoppable loyalty and a deep dedication to his oaths. But he is already betrothed to the princess of a less-than-friendly neighboring country in a bid to maintain peace. Both characters take their duties seriously. They know that marriage for love isn't possible. As their feelings deepen, they face a choice between tragedies: to keep their distance and forever wonder what could have been, or to spend what time they can together and let that loss cut even deeper when they have to part.
Reader, do you see it? Do you see the nearly unlimited room for pining? For self-denial? For guilt complexes and small, passing touches that mean too much? This is forbidden courtly romance, babes!! The tender contrast between the fair healer who struggles to speak up for herself and the gruff, rugged killer who knows how to do little else... so well designed. The tension is exquisite, the chemistry off the charts. The reader isn't instructed how to feel, either. Caruso conveys all this through character reactions and physical details. She doesn't tell you these people and the tension between them are hot. She makes them hot. Chef's kiss.
The plot works very well because it's an extension of the characters' shared principles and troubles. The writing remains a delight, clear and flowing. The secondary characters have their own lives and motivations and are written with care. I had the time of my life and recommend this to everybody.
Two years after Knight's Bride, Eliana is sent to court with a deadline. Her lord father's province is struggling financially, and she needs to marry into money, fast. At the convent where she studied, she was a gifted healer with a magical touch; at court, she's shy, out of place, and too willing to please. Of the men she is introduced to, she's drawn to only one: Corin, a surly knight, rough around the edges but with unstoppable loyalty and a deep dedication to his oaths. But he is already betrothed to the princess of a less-than-friendly neighboring country in a bid to maintain peace. Both characters take their duties seriously. They know that marriage for love isn't possible. As their feelings deepen, they face a choice between tragedies: to keep their distance and forever wonder what could have been, or to spend what time they can together and let that loss cut even deeper when they have to part.
Reader, do you see it? Do you see the nearly unlimited room for pining? For self-denial? For guilt complexes and small, passing touches that mean too much? This is forbidden courtly romance, babes!! The tender contrast between the fair healer who struggles to speak up for herself and the gruff, rugged killer who knows how to do little else... so well designed. The tension is exquisite, the chemistry off the charts. The reader isn't instructed how to feel, either. Caruso conveys all this through character reactions and physical details. She doesn't tell you these people and the tension between them are hot. She makes them hot. Chef's kiss.
The plot works very well because it's an extension of the characters' shared principles and troubles. The writing remains a delight, clear and flowing. The secondary characters have their own lives and motivations and are written with care. I had the time of my life and recommend this to everybody.
July 24, 2025
I read the first book in the series and it was fine; I gave it three stars. This book though is soooooo goooood! It was great seeing the characters from the previous book again and for Corin and Eliana to be the main characters. They are so interesting as people outside of their romantic entanglements. Eliana’s struggles with her passion for healing, which is not deemed an acceptable interest for a well bred lady. The patriarchy sucks and so is toxic masculinity and she has to fight against these societal expectations. Corin is like the perfect kinda broody tough guy with a rough past who has turned his life around. He is dedicated to protecting people as a knight and strives to be a better man. Be still my heart!
The relationship between the two MCs builds and develops nicely and somewhat slowly despite the FMCs time constraint to find a husband. The author does a great job with describing and showing each character’s struggles with attraction and then with their longing to be together. Sigh- it was so well done. ESPECIALLY great was how the FMC really stays true to herself and has such beautiful open communication with the MMC.
I really enjoyed watching these two characters fall in love, learn that love is returned, and then how they end up getting their well deserved HEA. Because let me tell you, a less talented writer would have given that HEA much earlier and I really think the extra challenges/situations addressed in the last bit of the book made the love and relationship between the MMCs more believable- that these two will go the distance together and that’s it’s not a story of lust but of a real lasting connection.
Oh, and the spicy scenes were a beautiful exploration of that connection along with blooming sexuality while also being hot- best type of spice imo.
Seriously great work. 🩷
The relationship between the two MCs builds and develops nicely and somewhat slowly despite the FMCs time constraint to find a husband. The author does a great job with describing and showing each character’s struggles with attraction and then with their longing to be together. Sigh- it was so well done. ESPECIALLY great was how the FMC really stays true to herself and has such beautiful open communication with the MMC.
I really enjoyed watching these two characters fall in love, learn that love is returned, and then how they end up getting their well deserved HEA. Because let me tell you, a less talented writer would have given that HEA much earlier and I really think the extra challenges/situations addressed in the last bit of the book made the love and relationship between the MMCs more believable- that these two will go the distance together and that’s it’s not a story of lust but of a real lasting connection.
Oh, and the spicy scenes were a beautiful exploration of that connection along with blooming sexuality while also being hot- best type of spice imo.
Seriously great work. 🩷
August 24, 2022
I received this book for free from Author, MTMC Tours in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Eliana is on a mission: to find a husband in a couple of months or else she’ll be married off to a horrible suitor. And it’s just her luck that she falls in love with the ONE man she cannot have—Corin, the Queen’s nephew, who is betrothed to someone else. And what starts off as a romance-focused story, it develops into a fascinating tale about court/political intrigue, danger, and forever friendships within a captivating fantasy world. Eliana is sincerely the best! She’s smart, charming, and a bit shy with a passion to become a magical healer. Her love story with Corin is faced with lots of obstacles, but was 100% rooting for them. 🧡 And wait till you meet Rachiele & Telon! Knight’s Oath is one of the best slice-of-life fantasy romances I’ve read this year!
Eliana is on a mission: to find a husband in a couple of months or else she’ll be married off to a horrible suitor. And it’s just her luck that she falls in love with the ONE man she cannot have—Corin, the Queen’s nephew, who is betrothed to someone else. And what starts off as a romance-focused story, it develops into a fascinating tale about court/political intrigue, danger, and forever friendships within a captivating fantasy world. Eliana is sincerely the best! She’s smart, charming, and a bit shy with a passion to become a magical healer. Her love story with Corin is faced with lots of obstacles, but was 100% rooting for them. 🧡 And wait till you meet Rachiele & Telon! Knight’s Oath is one of the best slice-of-life fantasy romances I’ve read this year!
August 4, 2022
I truly enjoyed Corin and Eliana’s story. Great world building as well as character growth. Sweet slow burn romance with plenty of court politics.
August 28, 2022
This is one of those books that once you start you won’t want to put it down. I burned through it in a day and I desperately want more. The relationships between all of the characters are so compelling, you will feel all the gut wrenching heartbreak but you also get to feel all the joys and and triumphs. Every relationship feels important and the characters have genuine chemistry, not just the romantic pairings but the friendships as well. Honestly this might be one of my new favorite books.
December 12, 2023
4.5 stars, I was gripped by this one (longing to get back to it) and enjoyed the couple better than the first story. Experienced hero, virgin heroine.
Peeve- the heroine is portrayed as a plus size woman. I am sorry but why make her a vegetarian that lives on bread and fruit and pretty much forgets to eat? That didn't add up for me but other than that- solid and enjoyable story. Looking forward to the next one about their adventures!
Corin was terrific- heart and panty melting. Elaina was pretty much it for this bad boy womanizing Knight and he knew it from the start.
"Corin stared like an idiot, forgetting to breathe. He didn’t believe in love at first sight. Lust, certainly. That, he’d experienced any number of times. But the woman in front of him, the woman he’d never expected to see again, was more than just beautiful."
Elaina was a strong woman in her own way so they were a well matched couple. They fight their attraction as he is bethrothed and she needs to find a rich husband asap. Bandits are plaguing the land and Corin is the Captain (?) as well as nephew to the Queen, tasked with dealing with them.
One day while out riding, Elaina sees a town under attack and goes to help Corin and the people since she is a Healer with the Touch (to heal obviously). They end up there for the night, and the attraction deepens:
“But you’d be better in the bed,” she said. “Just mind you don’t get any ideas.”
It was too late for that. The image of the shift clinging to her chilled skin would probably be burned into his head until the end of time. But he’d never take advantage of someone. She could at least trust him for that.
“Not a one,” he told her. “My head’s too full of tax codes to fit any new ideas.”
Corin struggles with jealousy (they both do):
“I don’t regret what I said about him,” Corin said flatly. “I regret how I said it to you. But the truth is, Eliana, it’s getting harder every day to just…“ his hands clenched into fists. “I can’t watch you marry someone else.”
“Oh,” she said. Eliana bit her lip and folded her hands together.
“I’ll stay your friend. I’ll bite my tongue better next time. But if you’re expecting me to watch you… watch you flirt, and congratulate you, don’t. Because I can’t. I’ve never once felt the way I do about you, and I won’t ever again.” He folded his arms over his chest.
------------
“Still. I can’t help wondering if they’re prettier, or better, or…”
“Don’t,” he said, his voice low but sharp. “Nobody’s prettier to me than you. So don’t do that, Eliana.” He rolled back onto his side and kissed her forehead gently.
Corin finally has had enough:
“Are you so determined that we shouldn’t find a way? Would you rather I gave up on you? Because I can’t.”
“You’d only regret it anyways,” she said, voice cracking. He was so close she thought he might lean down and kiss her. “You’d wake up in five years married to a woman who doesn’t even know how to wash her own clothes, and stuck in some little village when you could have been a Duke.”
“Lucky for us, I know how to do laundry,” Corin whispered, leaning over and bringing his other hand up to her face.
This is a long story so be prepared for it and for it to segue into another story. The banter between Rachiele, Telon, Elaina and Corin was so great but the ending killed a 5 star for me unfortunately. As well as I would have stripped the Duke of his title and given it to his son, Corin. But maybe that is coming...
"He wanted to say: if you need time, you can have it. He’d marry her that hour, or he’d wait years; no matter what she needed, he would be there. But he didn’t want to bring up the injury, or ask her for the dozenth time if she was okay. So instead he only rubbed his thumbs against the back of her hands, and told her that he loved her."
WHY? Why did he not just say hey- wtf is up with all the bruises?!? where did the unafraid honesty from earlier interactions go??
Corin isn't a coward! Why did he go timid. Loved him anyway :)
Peeve- the heroine is portrayed as a plus size woman. I am sorry but why make her a vegetarian that lives on bread and fruit and pretty much forgets to eat? That didn't add up for me but other than that- solid and enjoyable story. Looking forward to the next one about their adventures!
Corin was terrific- heart and panty melting. Elaina was pretty much it for this bad boy womanizing Knight and he knew it from the start.
"Corin stared like an idiot, forgetting to breathe. He didn’t believe in love at first sight. Lust, certainly. That, he’d experienced any number of times. But the woman in front of him, the woman he’d never expected to see again, was more than just beautiful."
Elaina was a strong woman in her own way so they were a well matched couple. They fight their attraction as he is bethrothed and she needs to find a rich husband asap. Bandits are plaguing the land and Corin is the Captain (?) as well as nephew to the Queen, tasked with dealing with them.
One day while out riding, Elaina sees a town under attack and goes to help Corin and the people since she is a Healer with the Touch (to heal obviously). They end up there for the night, and the attraction deepens:
“But you’d be better in the bed,” she said. “Just mind you don’t get any ideas.”
It was too late for that. The image of the shift clinging to her chilled skin would probably be burned into his head until the end of time. But he’d never take advantage of someone. She could at least trust him for that.
“Not a one,” he told her. “My head’s too full of tax codes to fit any new ideas.”
Corin struggles with jealousy (they both do):
“I don’t regret what I said about him,” Corin said flatly. “I regret how I said it to you. But the truth is, Eliana, it’s getting harder every day to just…“ his hands clenched into fists. “I can’t watch you marry someone else.”
“Oh,” she said. Eliana bit her lip and folded her hands together.
“I’ll stay your friend. I’ll bite my tongue better next time. But if you’re expecting me to watch you… watch you flirt, and congratulate you, don’t. Because I can’t. I’ve never once felt the way I do about you, and I won’t ever again.” He folded his arms over his chest.
------------
“Still. I can’t help wondering if they’re prettier, or better, or…”
“Don’t,” he said, his voice low but sharp. “Nobody’s prettier to me than you. So don’t do that, Eliana.” He rolled back onto his side and kissed her forehead gently.
Corin finally has had enough:
“Are you so determined that we shouldn’t find a way? Would you rather I gave up on you? Because I can’t.”
“You’d only regret it anyways,” she said, voice cracking. He was so close she thought he might lean down and kiss her. “You’d wake up in five years married to a woman who doesn’t even know how to wash her own clothes, and stuck in some little village when you could have been a Duke.”
“Lucky for us, I know how to do laundry,” Corin whispered, leaning over and bringing his other hand up to her face.
This is a long story so be prepared for it and for it to segue into another story. The banter between Rachiele, Telon, Elaina and Corin was so great but the ending killed a 5 star for me unfortunately. As well as I would have stripped the Duke of his title and given it to his son, Corin. But maybe that is coming...
"He wanted to say: if you need time, you can have it. He’d marry her that hour, or he’d wait years; no matter what she needed, he would be there. But he didn’t want to bring up the injury, or ask her for the dozenth time if she was okay. So instead he only rubbed his thumbs against the back of her hands, and told her that he loved her."
WHY? Why did he not just say hey- wtf is up with all the bruises?!? where did the unafraid honesty from earlier interactions go??
Corin isn't a coward! Why did he go timid. Loved him anyway :)
February 15, 2025
3.5/5. I feel like this would have been higher rated if it weren’t so long. That’s my only complaint about this book. it was really good otherwise. it had me giggling and kicking my feet and i enjoyed it. Toodles! 😘🫶💋
January 13, 2024
"A healer was only as good as her medicine, and her medicine was only as good as her plants--that was what Brida always said.".
First and most importantly, I wanted to say Congratulations to Juliette on her first published novel! I am so incredibly proud of you and I'm even more excited to see where this journey takes you!
There is a little bit of every flavor in this novel, that I think would suit even the pickiest of readers. The writing is smooth like butter and my goodness, I don't think I've been this mesmerized by an adult fantasy book in, well--forever. I try not to put any fantasy-esque books in the "I'll get to you eventually," pile but, hey, it happens. However, when I had the opportunity to read this as an ARC...I jumped on it immediately.
I love me some slow-burnin' romance, with a good ole Medieval time setting and suspenseful supernatural elements on the side. From the very beginning, this book had me hooked and I had the hardest time putting it down. It was like one of those perfectly gloomy, chilly, autumn days, and the book you're reading just envelopes you in its warmth--that's how satisfying this story is.
Eliana has cemented herself a permanent spot on my favorite female literary characters list. Her personality, her selflessness, the eagerness to learn and help others, her heart of gold and so much more... What's not to love?
I absolutely adored Eliana and Corin, and I love how their relationship developed organically. It didn't feel rushed or forced at all. They built a sturdy foundation as friends that seamlessly pulled them together as the story progresses. Their flirtatious banter was incredibly sweet, too.
And I think everyone needs at least one Telon or Rachiele in their inner circle. I love them both dearly.
If (when, I'm manifesting this into existence,) this gets turned into a series I am so intrigued to find out more about Eliana's Healing abilities. I've always been drawn to Healers in any story, so I'm excited to see how her abilities will unlock when she discovers her full potential.
There's so much more I'd like to say about this beautifully written novel, but I really think you should go and read it for yourself. I promise, you won't be disappointed.
*I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
First and most importantly, I wanted to say Congratulations to Juliette on her first published novel! I am so incredibly proud of you and I'm even more excited to see where this journey takes you!
There is a little bit of every flavor in this novel, that I think would suit even the pickiest of readers. The writing is smooth like butter and my goodness, I don't think I've been this mesmerized by an adult fantasy book in, well--forever. I try not to put any fantasy-esque books in the "I'll get to you eventually," pile but, hey, it happens. However, when I had the opportunity to read this as an ARC...I jumped on it immediately.
I love me some slow-burnin' romance, with a good ole Medieval time setting and suspenseful supernatural elements on the side. From the very beginning, this book had me hooked and I had the hardest time putting it down. It was like one of those perfectly gloomy, chilly, autumn days, and the book you're reading just envelopes you in its warmth--that's how satisfying this story is.
Eliana has cemented herself a permanent spot on my favorite female literary characters list. Her personality, her selflessness, the eagerness to learn and help others, her heart of gold and so much more... What's not to love?
I absolutely adored Eliana and Corin, and I love how their relationship developed organically. It didn't feel rushed or forced at all. They built a sturdy foundation as friends that seamlessly pulled them together as the story progresses. Their flirtatious banter was incredibly sweet, too.
And I think everyone needs at least one Telon or Rachiele in their inner circle. I love them both dearly.
If (when, I'm manifesting this into existence,) this gets turned into a series I am so intrigued to find out more about Eliana's Healing abilities. I've always been drawn to Healers in any story, so I'm excited to see how her abilities will unlock when she discovers her full potential.
There's so much more I'd like to say about this beautifully written novel, but I really think you should go and read it for yourself. I promise, you won't be disappointed.
*I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 26, 2025
I really liked this story and the romance. I already preordered this book because I am obsessed with the plot and the cover. I did have a hard time reading the book since for some reason when it was converted to my e-reader, it was not very legible, but I wanted to read it, so I did and enjoyed what I was able to read!
I received an advance review copy for free(thank you BookSirens and the author), and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Updated review:
Eliana is a healer with the Touch and has to marry in order to help her kingdom that is suffering financially. Which is fine until she meets Corin, a knight who is already betrothed, but she can’t stop thinking about him.
Corin is a knight and is betrothed to another to help unite their kingdoms, and he’s accepted his fate, until he meets Eliana.
I really enjoyed this story. I really liked the romance and that is the primary focus in this book, but there’s also a side story with bandits that has some shocking revelations and twists that come out in the end that added more to the story.
The romance is a slow burn “will they won’t they” kind of romance. The tension is delicious and in the end you just want them to be together no matter the circumstances.
I do think the story seemed a bit long, and I’m not sure why. It covered everything I would have expected, but it seemed dragged out?
Despite that, I really enjoyed it and recommend this one for any romantasy fans out there!
I received an advance review copy for free(thank you BookSirens and the author), and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Updated review:
Eliana is a healer with the Touch and has to marry in order to help her kingdom that is suffering financially. Which is fine until she meets Corin, a knight who is already betrothed, but she can’t stop thinking about him.
Corin is a knight and is betrothed to another to help unite their kingdoms, and he’s accepted his fate, until he meets Eliana.
I really enjoyed this story. I really liked the romance and that is the primary focus in this book, but there’s also a side story with bandits that has some shocking revelations and twists that come out in the end that added more to the story.
The romance is a slow burn “will they won’t they” kind of romance. The tension is delicious and in the end you just want them to be together no matter the circumstances.
I do think the story seemed a bit long, and I’m not sure why. It covered everything I would have expected, but it seemed dragged out?
Despite that, I really enjoyed it and recommend this one for any romantasy fans out there!
September 28, 2023
Another easy 5 stars for Juliette's book. I just love the feeling it leaves you with after you're done. As I've said in my review of her other book, Knight's bride, even though the theme isn't quite the same, if you loved Radiance by Grace Draven, you will love anything Juliette Caruso writes.
Here you have forbidden love, found family, angst, hope, despair, and of course, love. I loved the FMC, even though she lived a sheltered life, she still was brave, openminded, willing to do more for herself. And the MMC, who started off as a brooding, quiet type turned out to be a true force and someone willing to do and be all it takes.
Just, if you haven't, give these books a try, you won't be sorry!
Here you have forbidden love, found family, angst, hope, despair, and of course, love. I loved the FMC, even though she lived a sheltered life, she still was brave, openminded, willing to do more for herself. And the MMC, who started off as a brooding, quiet type turned out to be a true force and someone willing to do and be all it takes.
Just, if you haven't, give these books a try, you won't be sorry!
November 1, 2025
I absolutely loved Knight’s Oath. I just couldn’t get enough of it! If you’re into friends-to-lovers and fantasy, you will love this. Just a sweet fantasy-romance book.
~ August, 2022
~ August, 2022
March 31, 2024
There was no need to make it slow burn when there was insta love. Too long and slow for no reason.
July 22, 2022
"My lady, I swear myself to you. On pain of death, I will be faithful and true. My heart is yours, and no other's. I am yours to command."
Eliana dreams of being a healer and studying but instead she moves to the Palace in search of a husband who can benefit her family and land. She has never questioned her duty before until she is told to marry Randall, a man who uses threats to get what he wants. She refuses to do it especially when her heart truly belongs to Corin, the Queen's nephew. It's too bad he is already spoken for.
__________________________________
I spend most of my time reading dark romances nowadays. I love villains and HEA for them because life itself is far from perfect and we as people are imperfect. It gives the characters complexities and depth. It's hard with lighter romances because the characters sometimes feel too perfect.
But let me say this: I adored Knight's Oath. This isn't a dark romance but the characters are complex. They are flawed but lovable. This still feels innocent almost and romantic. I wasn't expecting there to be much spice though, to be honest. I figured this would be more tame.
Boy was I wrong. I'm sorry I underestimated you, Corin. He is a flirt and is known to take women to bed, a flaw for him in this story. It makes it extremely hard for Eliana to be his friend. But the moment he meets Eliana, he is deeply in love. But when they do get intimate? Corin's mouth is filthy. I also love when smut is built up. I love reading about foreplay and intimacy. It makes it that much hotter when they actually get to bed.
Eliana is admirable. She is dedicated to healing individuals and I loved the fantasy the author wove into it. I kinda wish the fantasy was explored more in the book because at times it feels like a romance in a different time era. But they mention dragons like once and her powers are loosely explained. However, there is another book coming out and I think that might dive more into it.
Despite how much I love these characters, I did have moments when I wanted to scream at them. Like for a while, I just wanted to shout at Corin to figure it out, choose her already. But then when he finally commits and Eliana gets hung up on her family's land. It kind of seems cruel at some points. I understood her position and the choices she makes, I just wish she communicated it better to him so he understood her feelings better. Instead it came off like she was a little shallow for a while, only caring about titles and money. Even though, that's far from her actual character.
But I think that's the point. This book is about compromising. It isn't perfect and the ending isn't but it's as perfect as it can be for them. I loved watching their love grow and their determination to make it work.
I'm so glad Juliette Caruso reached out to me to see if I'd be interested in reading her book. I cannot wait for the next book. Corin and Eliana are intoxicating and addicting. I highly recommend this.
.
.
.
"I have you, sweetheart. Let go."
Eliana dreams of being a healer and studying but instead she moves to the Palace in search of a husband who can benefit her family and land. She has never questioned her duty before until she is told to marry Randall, a man who uses threats to get what he wants. She refuses to do it especially when her heart truly belongs to Corin, the Queen's nephew. It's too bad he is already spoken for.
__________________________________
I spend most of my time reading dark romances nowadays. I love villains and HEA for them because life itself is far from perfect and we as people are imperfect. It gives the characters complexities and depth. It's hard with lighter romances because the characters sometimes feel too perfect.
But let me say this: I adored Knight's Oath. This isn't a dark romance but the characters are complex. They are flawed but lovable. This still feels innocent almost and romantic. I wasn't expecting there to be much spice though, to be honest. I figured this would be more tame.
Boy was I wrong. I'm sorry I underestimated you, Corin. He is a flirt and is known to take women to bed, a flaw for him in this story. It makes it extremely hard for Eliana to be his friend. But the moment he meets Eliana, he is deeply in love. But when they do get intimate? Corin's mouth is filthy. I also love when smut is built up. I love reading about foreplay and intimacy. It makes it that much hotter when they actually get to bed.
Eliana is admirable. She is dedicated to healing individuals and I loved the fantasy the author wove into it. I kinda wish the fantasy was explored more in the book because at times it feels like a romance in a different time era. But they mention dragons like once and her powers are loosely explained. However, there is another book coming out and I think that might dive more into it.
Despite how much I love these characters, I did have moments when I wanted to scream at them. Like for a while, I just wanted to shout at Corin to figure it out, choose her already. But then when he finally commits and Eliana gets hung up on her family's land. It kind of seems cruel at some points. I understood her position and the choices she makes, I just wish she communicated it better to him so he understood her feelings better. Instead it came off like she was a little shallow for a while, only caring about titles and money. Even though, that's far from her actual character.
But I think that's the point. This book is about compromising. It isn't perfect and the ending isn't but it's as perfect as it can be for them. I loved watching their love grow and their determination to make it work.
I'm so glad Juliette Caruso reached out to me to see if I'd be interested in reading her book. I cannot wait for the next book. Corin and Eliana are intoxicating and addicting. I highly recommend this.
.
.
.
"I have you, sweetheart. Let go."
August 15, 2022
First off I want to thank the author for sending me an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I have very mixed feelings about this book. I loved the characters, especially the main character Eliana and the love interest Corin. I love getting to see their strengths and flaws but at the same time there was next to no character development and very little character background. I was dying to know more about their histories and watch them develop into better versions of themselves throughout the book and was a little disappointed when it didn’t happen.
The plot is VERY subtle. It’s there- but you really have to squint to find it. What we do get to see is very eye catching and has you wondering what’s next. The world building tho? Almost nonexistent, which can be a little frustrating at times when you’re trying to understand both the plot and the world these characters are living in.
What did not disappoint in any way was the slowburn, strangers to friends to lovers romance! I would have to say this book is 90% romance and 10% plot if even that, and if you’re looking for a mostly romance fantasy book with just a bit of plot and drama this is absolutely perfect for you! The romance between Eliana and Corin is so heartwarming, the kind of romance that is hopeless romantics would do anything to have. Their relationship is so pure yet their chemistry could set a fire if they’re not careful! I’ve read many books this year but no other book couple comes close to the amazing bond we see with Eliana and Corin. ❤️
While some parts of this book was disappointing and some parts exceeded my expectations I will say the writhing is probably one of my favorite things. Juliette’s narrative is beautiful yet complicated but everything flows almost flawlessly. The book was nearly impossible to put down because of the writing (and the romance, who am I kidding I was head over heels for the romance and the smut.)
All and all I believe this book deserves an outstanding 4.5 ⭐️’s but with goodreads I’m rounding it up to 5 because honestly it was a great read and I cannot wait to read the sequel!
I have very mixed feelings about this book. I loved the characters, especially the main character Eliana and the love interest Corin. I love getting to see their strengths and flaws but at the same time there was next to no character development and very little character background. I was dying to know more about their histories and watch them develop into better versions of themselves throughout the book and was a little disappointed when it didn’t happen.
The plot is VERY subtle. It’s there- but you really have to squint to find it. What we do get to see is very eye catching and has you wondering what’s next. The world building tho? Almost nonexistent, which can be a little frustrating at times when you’re trying to understand both the plot and the world these characters are living in.
What did not disappoint in any way was the slowburn, strangers to friends to lovers romance! I would have to say this book is 90% romance and 10% plot if even that, and if you’re looking for a mostly romance fantasy book with just a bit of plot and drama this is absolutely perfect for you! The romance between Eliana and Corin is so heartwarming, the kind of romance that is hopeless romantics would do anything to have. Their relationship is so pure yet their chemistry could set a fire if they’re not careful! I’ve read many books this year but no other book couple comes close to the amazing bond we see with Eliana and Corin. ❤️
While some parts of this book was disappointing and some parts exceeded my expectations I will say the writhing is probably one of my favorite things. Juliette’s narrative is beautiful yet complicated but everything flows almost flawlessly. The book was nearly impossible to put down because of the writing (and the romance, who am I kidding I was head over heels for the romance and the smut.)
All and all I believe this book deserves an outstanding 4.5 ⭐️’s but with goodreads I’m rounding it up to 5 because honestly it was a great read and I cannot wait to read the sequel!
August 18, 2022
𝐬𝐨 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧'𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟐𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭?
Historical romance has always been one of my favorite genres, and I prefer it far more than contemporary ones, and this book reminded me WHY.
Eliana and Colin's 𝐈'𝐦 𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮/𝐈 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮/𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐧'𝐭 𝐛𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 was so good, and the fact that their slow burn romance was done so well had me gripping and feeling a lot of things 𝐋𝐈𝐊𝐄 𝐑𝐔𝐍 𝐀𝐖𝐀𝐘 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐆𝐄𝐓 𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐃 𝐀𝐋𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐘.
Aside from that, the characters were beautifully portrayed. I like how Eliana is relatable most of the time; I felt all of her worries and anxieties about everything. I also liked how, despite everything, she still managed to pick herself up and move on.
As for Colin, despite the parts where he managed to irritate me, I admire how loyal and dutiful he is to his people, particularly to his friends and Eliana.
Although there were times when I just rolled my eyes with all the anxiety and angst that I felt towards the situation they are in BECAUSE ME, HAD ANGER ISSUE, especially the last part, LIKE I JUST WANT A HAPPY ENDING.
Aside from that, the court politics and the whole gossiping, attacking thing going on here gave me the feeling that something BAD IS ABOUT TO HAPPEN LIKE BAD BAD AND I WAS RIGHT. The brother and father needed a good beating, as did the bandits LIKE A DAMN GOOD BEATING.
Other things I liked about this book were the side characters and their interaction with the leads; it was so special to me, especially Rachielle and Telon, and I've been interested in Isabel and the Queen for a while.
Overall, I thought this was a fantastic book. The characters and the romance were both enjoyable to me. I'm hoping for more fantastical elements in the next one, as well as a deeper dive into the Touched aspects and the brewing war, so fingers crossed. 4.5 ⭐
𝑰 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒂 𝒇𝒓𝒆𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒗𝒊𝒂 𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒔𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒂𝒎 𝒗𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒍𝒚 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘.
Historical romance has always been one of my favorite genres, and I prefer it far more than contemporary ones, and this book reminded me WHY.
Eliana and Colin's 𝐈'𝐦 𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮/𝐈 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮/𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐧'𝐭 𝐛𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 was so good, and the fact that their slow burn romance was done so well had me gripping and feeling a lot of things 𝐋𝐈𝐊𝐄 𝐑𝐔𝐍 𝐀𝐖𝐀𝐘 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐆𝐄𝐓 𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐃 𝐀𝐋𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐘.
Aside from that, the characters were beautifully portrayed. I like how Eliana is relatable most of the time; I felt all of her worries and anxieties about everything. I also liked how, despite everything, she still managed to pick herself up and move on.
As for Colin, despite the parts where he managed to irritate me, I admire how loyal and dutiful he is to his people, particularly to his friends and Eliana.
Although there were times when I just rolled my eyes with all the anxiety and angst that I felt towards the situation they are in BECAUSE ME, HAD ANGER ISSUE, especially the last part, LIKE I JUST WANT A HAPPY ENDING.
Aside from that, the court politics and the whole gossiping, attacking thing going on here gave me the feeling that something BAD IS ABOUT TO HAPPEN LIKE BAD BAD AND I WAS RIGHT. The brother and father needed a good beating, as did the bandits LIKE A DAMN GOOD BEATING.
Other things I liked about this book were the side characters and their interaction with the leads; it was so special to me, especially Rachielle and Telon, and I've been interested in Isabel and the Queen for a while.
Overall, I thought this was a fantastic book. The characters and the romance were both enjoyable to me. I'm hoping for more fantastical elements in the next one, as well as a deeper dive into the Touched aspects and the brewing war, so fingers crossed. 4.5 ⭐
𝑰 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒂 𝒇𝒓𝒆𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒗𝒊𝒂 𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒔𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒂𝒎 𝒗𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒍𝒚 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘.
August 8, 2022
4 stars
3.5 angst
I received this book as an ARC and I feel so blessed to have gotten it ahead of its official release on August 15th.
A slow burn romance, friends to lovers/love at first sight, hidden threat, historical fantasy/fiction.
I was pleased by the world building and motivation the FMC and MMC had throughout the story.
It took me a bit to get into the story. Caruso took her time setting the world up and establishing relationships. THEN, she went and made me cry! The time she took to create personalities outside of the impending romantic relationship made the angst and struggles to be together hit that much harder.
Did I have to pause multiple times to ugly cry? Yes, a total of four times. One being last night at 1 am when I was trying to finish the book.
Eliana is a strong FMC that comes into her person more as she discovers her place in the palace and court. She also represents full figured FMCs with minimal anxiety around her size. Often, I notice with plus sized FMCs, they can get caught up on how their body differs from others, but her friendships and relationship with Corin reaffirm her confidence in her other skills as well as her beauty.
And she's a vegetarian, love!
Corin reads a romance novel... need I say more? He's a simp for Eliana and would do anything for his girl. The sections where the POV was more of his were riddled with his deep feelings for Eliana and his commitment to his oath and honor.
I look forward to seeing where the series goes and seeing more HEAs. I'm a sucker for them.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
3.5 angst
I received this book as an ARC and I feel so blessed to have gotten it ahead of its official release on August 15th.
A slow burn romance, friends to lovers/love at first sight, hidden threat, historical fantasy/fiction.
I was pleased by the world building and motivation the FMC and MMC had throughout the story.
It took me a bit to get into the story. Caruso took her time setting the world up and establishing relationships. THEN, she went and made me cry! The time she took to create personalities outside of the impending romantic relationship made the angst and struggles to be together hit that much harder.
Did I have to pause multiple times to ugly cry? Yes, a total of four times. One being last night at 1 am when I was trying to finish the book.
Eliana is a strong FMC that comes into her person more as she discovers her place in the palace and court. She also represents full figured FMCs with minimal anxiety around her size. Often, I notice with plus sized FMCs, they can get caught up on how their body differs from others, but her friendships and relationship with Corin reaffirm her confidence in her other skills as well as her beauty.
And she's a vegetarian, love!
Corin reads a romance novel... need I say more? He's a simp for Eliana and would do anything for his girl. The sections where the POV was more of his were riddled with his deep feelings for Eliana and his commitment to his oath and honor.
I look forward to seeing where the series goes and seeing more HEAs. I'm a sucker for them.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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