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The Rogue Knight

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An aristocratic birthright and the luxurious comforts of profound wealth did nothing to comfort Fontaine Pratina following the death of her beloved parents. After two years in the guardianship of her mother’s arrogant and selfish sister, Carileena Wetherton, Fontaine’s only moments of joy and peace were found in the company of the loyal servants of Pratina Manor. Only in the kitchens and servant’s quarters of her grand domicile did Fontaine find friendship, laughter and affection.

The life of a wealthy orphan destined to inherit loomed before Fontaine—a dark cloud of shallow, arrogant associations—of aristocracy, void of simple joys—and void of love. Still, it was her lot—and she saw no way of escaping.

Yet, one cold winter’s night, a battered stranger appeared at the servant’s entrance, seeking shelter and help. He gave only his first name, Knight—and suddenly, Fontaine found herself experiencing fleeting moments of joy in life. Knight was handsome, powerful—the very stuff of the legends of days of old. Though a servant’s class was his, he was proud, strong and even his name seemed to validate his persona—and he blissfully distracted Fontaine from her dull, hopeless existence.

Still, there were devilish secrets—strategies cached by her greedy aunt—and not even the handsome and powerful Knight could save her from them. Or could he? And if he did—would the truth force Fontaine to forfeit her Knight, her heart’s desire—the man she loved?

90 pages, ebook

First published November 23, 2010

51 people are currently reading
430 people want to read

About the author

Marcia Lynn McClure

74 books1,364 followers
Born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Marcia Lynn McClure grew up influenced by the reminiscent stories of rugged, rural Colorado farm life fascinatingly recounted to her by her parents, grandparents, uncles and aunts…tales of runaway buckboards, mule-drawn plows and dust pneumonia; verbalized images of stream-flooded meadows, frozen over in winter, where a child could peer through the crystal clear ice in wonder at the small fish, snakes and mice sealed in the meadow grasses beneath; stories of hardship and tragedy, love and loss. But always the stories, and the people telling them, bore evidence of the wonder and worthiness of simpler, yet sometimes brutal, times.

These influential people and the family legends they detailed, coupled with her own life experiences and utterly romantic nature, led Marcia to begin writing novels as Christmas gifts for her closest friends…friends who long for a breath of the past and miss the romance of bygone eras; friends searching for moments of distraction from the stressful, demanding times we live in.

And so, knowing that it is the breath of the past and the "take me in you arms and kiss me" kind of moments that so many women long to relive, Marcia spins her tales of love, life and laughter…adventures woven around those compelling, romantic instances that most appeal to a woman's loving heart. Marcia feels that if her readers close one of her books with a contented sigh and a delighted smile, feeling rejuvenated, cheerful and edified, then she has achieved what she set out to do…shower refreshment and happiness on anyone having experienced the story.

Marcia lives in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. There she writes her stories surrounded by her beloved friends and family...and the beautiful desert landscape of New Mexico!

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5 stars
449 (34%)
4 stars
464 (35%)
3 stars
301 (23%)
2 stars
65 (5%)
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16 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
Profile Image for Kathy.
2,741 reviews5,979 followers
January 14, 2015
Just 90 pages and easily read in one sitting. Another fabulous clean romantic read.
Profile Image for TJ.
3,284 reviews275 followers
December 28, 2010
I figured out what my problem is concerning Marcia McClure. I made the mistake of reading her book, "A Crimson Frost" first. It will forever be the perfect fairy-tale romance for me and how does one compare perfection? Nothing since has quite matched it so... Well, the buck stops here.

She writes fairy-tales, plain and simple, wonderful, fantasy, fairy tales where the hero is near perfect and the heroine is to. Her stories revolve around circumstances they must rise above together. If that is what you're in the mood for, it just doesn't come better.

In "The Rogue Knight" our perfect heroine is trapped with a very wicked aunt as her guardian. Our hero finds himself beaten, bloodied and in need of rescue at her doorstep. In trying to repay her kindness, he finds himself rescuing her from her aunts evil clutches, only to find himself falling in love. Of course he is not what he seems and the road to happiness is not an easy one. This story is syrupy sweet but just what the doctor ordered if one likes sugar!
Profile Image for Romance_reader.
233 reviews
February 19, 2017
Not bad but I have read better from MLM (e.g.:- Crimson Frost). In comparison, this book seemed slightly inconsistent when it came to the writing style and the basic plot line. Of course, it's only a novella and so there was some word count limit I guess - which might explain all of that. Nonetheless, I didn't get much of the 'feel good' buzz and fuzzy warmth that I normally do when I'm reading one of her titles.

The H Knight is a nobleman in disguise who accidentally ends up seeking refuge at the h Fontaine's manor after a street skirmish that leads him bloody and weak. The h is the orphaned 'miss of the manner' with an evil aunt who could rival Cinderella's infamous step-mom. She nurses the H back to health and over the course of time, falls in love with him - and his emerald green eyes. Initially, she is successful at keeping his presence a secret but, is eventually found out. The H is then employed by the aunt as coachman and is also her means of getting back at her 'inconvenient' niece.

The aunt then orders the H to pretend affection for the h, only to abandon her and break her heart when she so bids. The H, who is indebted to the Fontaine; agrees to play along and then promptly goes and reveals all to his saviour and works on rescuing her instead from the evil clutches of her wicked relative. The story becomes predictable from then on and Knight, on many occasions, comes across as a bit of a drama king with a low sense of self (even with all his confident posturing.) He leaves the h hanging till the bitter end before confessing his feelings (although, he was not averse to a bit of intense PDA when the mood struck).

The ending is quite satisfying as far as romance novels go and I guess it's quite ok for a one time read. But it's certainly not re-read material for me. Two and a half stars!




202 reviews
February 20, 2025
There wasn't anything really wrong with this book, but there wasn't anything really right with it either. The relationship was built on a few kisses without any other real interactions, and the couple didn't have any chemistry that I could see.

The title is a bit misleading. It isn't a tale about a knight as we traditionally think of it, but is a story of a wealthy man with a surname Knight. I found that a bit disappointing since I enjoy tales of the medieval time period and was expecting the hero to be a true knight.

Not one worth a re-read.

The virtual narration was rather comical, very literal. For example "W-w-what?" instead of being read as a stutter, was "W" "W" "What".
Profile Image for Annalisa.
386 reviews
January 18, 2011
I am enthralled with this author right now - especially her works in any time period involving Lords/Ladies, Knights, Royalty which this falls into a category of. Young Fontaine and Knight are both characters that I empathized with and was hoping for. I particularly enjoyed the softer side of Knight that shone through in the tears he shed for his love. A great short story!

Amazon Product Description:
An aristocratic birthright and the luxurious comforts of profound wealth did nothing to comfort Fontaine Pratina following the death of her beloved parents. After two years in the guardianship of her mother's arrogant and selfish sister, Carileena Wetherton, Fontaine's only moments of joy and peace were found in the company of the loyal servants of Pratina Manor. Only in the kitchens and servant's quarters of her grand domicile did Fontaine find friendship, laughter and affection. The life of a wealthy orphan destined to inherit loomed before Fontaine-a dark cloud of shallow, arrogant associations-of aristocracy, void of simple joys-and void of love. Still, it was her lot-and she saw no way of escaping. Yet, one cold winter's night, a battered stranger appeared at the servant's entrance, seeking shelter and help. He gave only his first name, Knight-and suddenly, Fontaine found herself experiencing fleeting moments of joy in life. Knight was handsome, powerful-the very stuff of the legends of days of old. Though a servant's class was his, he was proud, strong and even his name seemed to validate his persona-and he blissfully distracted Fontaine from her dull, hopeless existence. Still, there were devilish secrets-strategies cached by her greedy aunt-and not even the handsome and powerful Knight could save her from them. Or could he? And if he did-would the truth force Fontaine to forfeit her Knight, her heart's desire-the man she loved?
Profile Image for Kathy Jo.
774 reviews142 followers
October 14, 2014
This review is going to be different than the other ones I have done because the synopsis pretty much sums everything up. Instead I'll just give my own thoughts of the book. :)

The Rogue Knight was definitely harder for me to get through this time around. While I still liked it, I didn't love it like the first time I read it.

Fontaine and Knight were just absolutely amazing! I really did love them. Both of them were selfless and only wanted to do what was best for others around them. They were focused on others' happiness instead of their own. So their HEA was perfect in my opinion! :) I also really enjoyed all the side characters. They were fun and a definite bright spot when having to deal with the aunt.

And speaking of the aunt... she was just a horrible excuse for a human being! I could not stand her! I was really glad that she wasn't in the book as much as she could have been. I don't think I would have liked it much if that were the case. And I do have to say that while I liked the ending I really wish that something bad would have happened to the aunt. I mean seriously! She is horrible! So why in the world did she have to get everything?!

I think overall it was a good read for me. There were parts that were a bit too wordy and I found myself skipping things here and there just to get to the end. I did however love all the kisses! One of the things I love most about Marcia's books is the kissing! Boy oh boy does she know how to write a kissing scene! ;) Hehe.
Profile Image for Kathy * Bookworm Nation.
2,157 reviews702 followers
March 19, 2022
This was a quick novella-length story, with a European historical setting set in fictional places. Fontaine is an orphan who is under the control of her unpleasant Aunt. She helps a stranger, Knight, when he is in need, and he wants to return the favor. I waiver on what to rate this one, its a cute story and the characters were likable.



Content Rated PG:
Romance: Kissing
Language: None
Violence: None
111 reviews1 follower
May 11, 2011
Wow, it's hard to describe how insipid this book is, and how embarrassing that I read the whole thing. I wish I hadn't wasted my time. It's a cliche, predictable bodice ripper without the bodice ripping. The two main characters are absolutely perfect, so much so that I wanted to vomit. Complete stock character drivel. Don't bother.
Profile Image for Babs.
Author 15 books188 followers
December 29, 2010
I just happened to come across a blog a few weeks back to get a free copy of this book. I am glad I decided to take the offer. This is the first book I have ever read by Marcia L McClure. I am now a huge fan. I feel in love with this book a wonderful romantic tale. Fontaine draws you into her poor situation. Knight is mugged and beaten, he drags himself to the home of Fontaine and her aunt. She takes care of him with the help of the servants. Fontaine is always hanging out with them in the kitchen where she feels the most wanted and loved. Her wicked aunt, whom I wanted to slap, comes to find Knight in the kitchen and they play if off well. She hires him as her coachman wanting to dig her nails into him for herself. Knight realizes the predicament Fontaine is in with her aunt and tries to help her. There are some great twists and some fun along the way. I lovely must read.
Profile Image for Teya Teya.
Author 9 books103 followers
August 28, 2022
It's that time of the year again to devour the deliciousness of Marcia Mcclure's journeys to destiny books. Okay, I'm a month early starting but who cares!

8/27/22
I love this one. It's a quick, fun, and easy read. It also makes my mom look better in the light of this book. I love the fight he makes for her and on her behalf, a true knight.

Other years
Hot and yummy. A Lord's son, who leaves his home to be a commoner and learn about his people to feel worthy to rule. ONly to find true love in a girl who is a Lord's daughter but lives among and loves her staff. Trying to stay away from her cruel aunt. A strange twist on a retelling of a Cinderella story. LOVE IT!
Profile Image for Tadiana ✩Night Owl☽.
1,880 reviews23.3k followers
April 22, 2016
This is a 1920's melodrama. With stock characters: "wicked stepmother aunt", perfect and beautiful heroine, perfect and impossibly handsome hero (with EMERALD eyes!). Also misspellings. And really gushy writing. If you don't care about all that and just want to read a sweet romance where your brain cells don't need to be exercised (in fact, I'd strongly advise your brain cells to have a nice nap for a couple of hours), have at it. This is just a reminder to myself to never get sucked into reading another MLM book, even if it's free.
Profile Image for Richelle .
410 reviews33 followers
April 27, 2019
This may only be a novella, but it certainly didn't feel like one. What a sweet story. Nothing felt rushed or unbalanced, which sometimes happens in novellas. This was a rich story of a sweet, kind heroine and our dashing rogue Knight. Seriously, I agree with the author, I'm a huge fan of the greenhouse scene, one of my favorites!

My only wish was to see how her witch of an aunt reacted when all came to fruition. Otherwise, this story did not disappoint. Definitely recommend!

Romance - Mostly clean ( Lots of passionate kissing, mild innuendo)
Violence - None
Language - None
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Lisa  (Bookworm Lisa).
2,240 reviews206 followers
July 29, 2010
When I began this book, I was struggling to justify a three rating. The more I read, the more I liked it! I always struggle with Novella's. I prefer a book where there is time for character and plot development.

I downloaded this book because many of my friends have become Marcia McClure fans, and I wanted to give her writing a try.

I will definitely be reading more of her novels. In fact, I have purchased a few, before I read this.
Profile Image for Natalie.
736 reviews19 followers
May 13, 2010
I need to thank my friend Deb for introducing this book to me. Rogue Knight was a short sweet read. I like how the romance got "intense" or as Deb said a bit "steamy" while still falling under my definition of clean. This was a sweet fast read, and worth a read. I'm looking forward to trying more of Marcia Lynn McClure's books.
Profile Image for M..
377 reviews
December 20, 2010
I love this one! Fontaine is stronger than she thinks she is. Knight is almost too stubborn for his own good. Lady Wetherton is determined to make her niece as miserable as she has made herself. And Ladies Lightender and Lathan remind me a bit of the old ladies living at the Willows Boarding House in "The Tough of Sage" in their mischievous ways.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Tara.
339 reviews
October 20, 2014
Simple, sweet love story. I think I would have liked this one more if it wasn't insta-love and had more tension. And didn't love how he called her Peach. Kinda cheesy. But the greenhouse scene made up for it. :) All in all, an enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Julie.
40 reviews1 follower
February 5, 2009
FABULOUS, clean romantic book! Highly recommend this author!
Profile Image for Melody.
531 reviews
June 2, 2009
Read my new e-book of this one today, and like all other Marcia McClure books, I read it with a smile, and finished with a sigh. :)
Profile Image for Chelsea Raadgep.
83 reviews3 followers
February 3, 2010
The Rogue Knight indeed. His name was Knight, and he was definately a rogue. Oh, how I love rogues!! ;)
Profile Image for Stacey Hall.
33 reviews9 followers
December 21, 2010
And what a rogue Knight was!! He was such a hero, as was Fontaine! I loved this romance, and all the great kissing you can depend on in Marcia's books!!
1,902 reviews
April 3, 2024
Reread. Fantasy/historical romance. I loved this clean story. The forbidden romance added an element of intrigue to the story.
Profile Image for Chesney.
737 reviews
September 27, 2013
Seriously. You can't go wrong reading Marcia's books. This has adventure, romance, and a nasty nasty aunt.
Profile Image for Marilee .
1,454 reviews236 followers
April 3, 2024
I'm a little torn on what to rate this novella because I loved the first half and then got whiplash right in the middle and spent the second half trying to reconcile what I knew about the characters from the first half. Or maybe it was just my expectations? I did love the grand gesture at the end.

This was my first book from this author but I will definitely pick up others because I have a lot of friends who love her books. I just don't think this was the right pick for me for my first one.
Profile Image for Dawn Ireland.
Author 97 books70 followers
November 23, 2019
Delightful but not quite there

The Rogue Knight was a delightful story, but there wasn’t any meat on its bones.

I wish there had been more history of the time. Practically the entire story took place in one location. There weren’t even any shopping experiences. Not much in the way of drawing a picture of the life surrounding the characters.

Fontaine barely left the kitchen. The story could have used an editor for some of the errors, plus guidance.
3 reviews
April 21, 2020
Good quick read

I liked the idea of the book, young lady under the rule of a selfish aunt. I wasn't sure which way the author would take the ending because there could have been a few ways to get to the happy ending. It was fun to guess where the story might go. I do wish the book were longer but understand the authors point to make it short.
Profile Image for Rai Moore.
71 reviews
Read
June 24, 2021
I enjoyed the story..it was cute and the characters were nice. Although the author mentioned that she wanted to make this a full length novel, I think this fits well as a novella.
Profile Image for Carol.
224 reviews3 followers
November 7, 2022
*5/5 stars

Gosh I love this author. I’ve literally only read two or three of her books, but they have all left me with such joy at reading beautiful love stories.
Profile Image for NefariousButterfly.
157 reviews
September 8, 2018
Roguish Delights

I love this story and wish it was longer. But there are some perfect moments in the book were you wouldnt want to change a thing. And the plot it so sweet!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews

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