The Crusader's Bride

The Champions of Saint Euphemia #1

by Claire Delacroix

Gaston battled for duty and honor--until Ysmaine tempted him to fight for her love... When the Templar knight Gaston unexpectedly inherits his family estate, he knows he needs a wife and heir. A marriage of convenience to a widow in need of assistance is a practical solution and the newly-wed pair leave Jerusalem, entrusted with the delivery of a package for the Templars. Away from the life he has known for years, Gaston quickly realizes that little is following his plan--especially his mysterious wife, whose presence awakens an unexpected fire... Twice widowed, Ysmaine doubts she will ever wed again, let alone have a marriage of merit--until she is charmed by the gruff knight intent upon defending her. Ysmaine weds again, not only by her own choice but to a warrior whose honor she admires. She is determined to show Gaston that marriage has more to offer them both than an heir, but first she must win the trust of the wary man she has impulsively wed... Neither realize that Gaston has been entrusted with the treasure of the Templars--much less that someone in their small party is intent upon claiming the prize at any cost. In a company of strangers with secrets, can Gaston dare to trust his new bride? Can Ysmaine convince Gaston to confide what he knows? Can they solve the riddle together before the villain's plan comes to fruition and all is lost?

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Medieval, Historical, Historical Fiction, Amazon, Ebooks

354 pages, Hardcover

First published July 28, 2015

About the author

New York Times bestselling author Claire Delacroix sold her first book in 1992, an historical romance called ROMANCE OF THE ROSE. Since then, she has published over sixty romance novels and novellas, and has also been published under the names Claire Cross and Deborah Cooke. She has an honours degree in history, with a focus on medieval studies. She is an avid reader of medieval vernacular literature, fairy tales and fantasy novels.

For books written under the pseudonym, Claire Cross, see:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...

For books written under Claire's own name, Deborah Cooke, please see:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...

In October and November 2009, she was the writer in residence for the Toronto Public Library, the first time that the library has hosted a residency focused on the romance genre.

Visit her two websites here:
http://www.delacroix.net
http://www.deborahcooke.com

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Reviews

[Becca · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Crusader's Bride is the opening book in Claire Delacroix's newest completed series, The Champions of Saint Euphemia. I have been hesitant to start this book because I knew once I started, I'd be binge reading and then I'd be waiting for the next release without anything more of Delacroix's to read while I waited (sadly for me, I've finished everything else)!

Delacroix is a unique writer and one most of my friends on Goodreads don't read (I'm trying to change this). Her books are told in a signature writing style that transports me to medieval times. She is one of the few writers where I read both her historicals and her paranormal historicals (I love Kinfairlie so much), and she is the one I turn to when I'm look for something different. The start of this series did not disappoint. This tale takes place during the Crusades, a time period I rarely see.

The Crusader's Bride starts in Jerusalem at a time right before a massive invasion. The hero, Gaston, has recently discovered that he is now a Baron and has to leave the Templars, of which he has been a knight for some years. Since he is a Baron, he is also in need of a wife and heir and after observing the heroine, Ysmaine, regularly praying and showing herself to be a woman of grace and nobility, he proposes marriage. At the time, Ysmaine is in dire straights and her maid is ill. Gaston, with his kindness, generosity, and strength, seems too good to be true. Ysmaine is on pilgrimage because her last too husbands have died on the wedding night and she believes herself cursed.

Their marriage starts off quickly and Gaston and Ysmaine both have to learn more about each other. They bumble through a few things, but overall, their relationship is fun to watch develop. In addition to the central romance, there is also a story arc that begins here and continues through the other books in the series. There is a large cast of secondary characters (who eventually get their own books) as Gaston is secretly tasked with one final quest where he needs to deliver a treasure and a missive to the Temple in Venice to save it from destruction at the hands of the army descending upon Jerusalem. Ysmaine is perceptive and soon uncovers the treasure and the missive and does what she can to protect it. In addition to this, the reader is introduced to other knights, squires, a traveling merchant, a wealthy noble, a runaway woman disguised as a boy, and Ysmaine's maid. Several of these characters are in on the quest, but it is not clear what everyone's motives are. While Gaston and Ysmaine's quest is completed at the end of the book, some of the threads that begin in this story were not tied up--they will be continued in the other books.

Overall, I really enjoyed this story. It was different and I enjoyed being thrown into the chaos of a new marriage, a treasure quest, and a large traveling party full of different personalities. The romance arc did suffer a bit because there were so many characters, but I enjoyed the story enough that I didn't mind. If you are interested in reading stories where the romance is the overwhelming focus, this book may not be for you. The only thing that kept this from being a 5-star book was a large misunderstanding between Ysmaine and Gaston that took up about 15% of the story. I HATE stupid misunderstandings that could easily be cleared up in a single conversation. It is a pet peeve of mine and even thought Delacroix sought to explain why the characters acted the way that they did, I was still annoyed and it slowed me way down on finishing the novel. That was my only quibble about this book--otherwise I loved the rest of it and I look forward to continuing the series and hopefully seeing Gaston and Ysmaine again. Delacroix did a great job with the world building and character development and I can't wait to revisit them soon.

A note on sex scenes--this book does contain a few scenes but if you are a major romance reader, they are pretty mild. One of them was pretty funny because Gaston still had some things to learn about Ysmaine. I really enjoyed how Delacroix portrayed this because it fit Gaston's personality so well. Even if sex scenes bother you, they are easy to skip through--don't let them stop you from enjoying a great story!

Copy gifted by the Publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Celestine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I very much liked the way this novel started out - in Jerusalem during the 12th century with a team of multi-national Crusaders tasked with the safe transfer of a reliquary back to the Templar stronghold in Paris. The journey is fraught with danger and some mysterious person is attempting to abscond with the treasure. The blend of personalities was terrific, especially since there is more than one brave knight in the group. All that testosterone in the room can raise a stink.

Subsequent novels in the series move the treasure a little closer to its destination, but the focus of each book is on a different knight and his lady love. In book one, all of the major characters are introduced and they are a mixed crew. And they don't all get along. And they are suspicious of one another until trust is earned. It made for a very intriguing start to the book and series.

I also very much liked the introduction of Gaston and Ysmaine. He is a lifelong Templar returning to his home in France, required to forsake his vows to take on the mantle of heir after the death of his older brother. Ysmaine is an impoverished noblewoman stranded in Jerusalem at the end of a tragic and difficult pilgrimage to the Holy Land. He is in need of a genteel wife and she is in need of a protector, but neither expected love to flourish. To the author's credit, true love takes a bit to flourish, although admiration and attraction are evident in spades.

I enjoyed the escape adventures of Gaston and Ysmaine, and I also enjoyed their "courtship." Gaston, who has served the Templars since boyhood, is completely clueless about women. I felt that the judgement of women was harsh, but it was probably correct to its time. I was really riding a high with this book until - yikes - there came that too stupid to live moment. Of course the sheltered and ladylike Ysmaine would know more about protecting a Templar treasure than the seasoned knight who was so well respected and intelligent that he was a negotiator with the Saracens. She was impetuous and know-it-all. I had a hard time stomaching it, but by then I was so invested in the story and characters that I had to keep going. At least her stupidly daring hunch paid off in the end.

The historical details are intriguing and interesting, but don't overwhelm the story. There is strong character development, and the 12th century setting in Outremer (the Crusader states in and around Jerusalem) and Venice were a delightful change from the norm in most medieval romance novels.

*** I read this book in the Age of Chivalry and Romance bundle through Kindle Unlimited.****

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person · Rating 5 out of 5]

2nd reading April 10-13, 2018

I’m going to let my original review/rating stand. However, this time around, I have given this book a place of honor on my “desert island keepers” shelf!

My first experience with this book was as audio via the library. THIS time I now own the kindle and audio. Recently, this book was available in the kindle store for $.99 and I got the audio for $7.49. Well worth it!

1st reading Nov 8-29, 2017

via Hoopla. Narrator did an amazing job! A great audio listening experience!

Wow! Why did I take so long to try Claire Delacroix?

The author did an outstanding job of capturing the Medieval time-period.

I felt that the heroine Ysmaine was smart, resourceful and intelligent to make her appealing to 21st C HR readers.

Ysmaine is what I call a strong heroine. She’s very much a woman of the time period, but she uses her intelligence and an acceptable (to me) version of agency that was not glaringly out of place for what I want/don’t want to see in an Medieval romance.

I really like Claire Delacroix’s writing style and the way that she captures the time period.

There is a story arc that is going to be executed in the other books in the series, thus some things were unresolved at the end of the book and some of the other characters will have their own books.

There was a double “misunderstanding” that was a little annoying, but everything else was so outstanding that I’m not going to give this less than 5-stars.

[Joanna Loves Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

Before I get too far removed this one, I want to get my thoughts down. I listened to this on Hoopla and enjoyed the narration exceedingly. It was a lovely and delightful listening experience.

This story starts in Jerusalem, where are Hero has resigned from being a Templar Knight because he has inherited a barony on the death of his brother. The heroine was in Jerusalem on pilgrimage, after having the misfortune of being widowed twice prior to consummation of the unions. The first time can be considered bad luck, but the second, witchcraft? It has hurt her sisters' chance of marriage, so she has made the long and arduous journey to repent and worship in the holy city. The Hero realizes that he will need to marry soon and work toward producing an heir. He notices the heroine worshipping with devotion and regularity, and he recognizes that while of noble birth, she has fallen on hard times. He offers to help her, and her first thought is not of food, but of her ailing maid who needs medical attention. This selflessness was the lynchpin in the hero's pursuit of the heroine, and it was something I enjoyed and appreciated in this story. They are drawn to each other through their mutual respect of honor and integrity, along with mutual attraction.

After they marry, the hero leads them and a group to France, where his barony is. The group is also transporting a sacred relic, and they leave just as opposing forces begin their counter attack. There is much adventure and intrigue on their journey that there didn't need to be internal drama as a result, but unfortunately each of the MCs engage in deception for the other's own good. If that had been excluded, I would have enjoyed this more. But it didn't ruin it for me.

I thought the sexual tension well done, with some misadventures along the way. The Hero is in no ways a sex god, having taken his Templar vow of celibacy seriously. There are some unsatisfactory scenes, followed by a mutual exploration scene that I enjoyed. Delacroix's writing is charming and atmospheric. I have enjoyed each of her stories I have read thus far, and I look forward to continuing this series!

[Nabilah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ms. Delacroix is a new author to me. The book has a decent plot centered around an exciting quest. Unfortunately, the writing falls a bit flat. It lacks the intensity and grittiness that I expect from a medieval tale. I crave bloodlust and rawness, which are unfortunately missing here.

The cast of characters is enormous! There are knights, squires, traders, and so on, which makes the whole story somewhat confusing. While I understand that this is the first book in a series, is it necessary to introduce every single character who will appear in future books? I ended up skimming through the second half of the story, as it failed to engage me fully.

The level of steaminess is extremely low. It's not exactly clean, but it remains quite vague. Overall, this book didn't meet my expectations in terms of writing style, character development, and intensity. Hence, only 3 stars from me. I don't think she's the author for me.

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Delacroix is back, better than ever with an all-new historical romance series featuring Templar Knights who find true love.
Set in the late 12th century her story comes alive thanks to her expressive narrative including some real history mixed with her fantastic fiction. Her backdrops are breathtaking and dangerous as her troupe travels from the Middle East to Europe. Her couple, Ysmaine and Gaston are honorable, believable and both refreshingly innocent. Heading her chapters on genuine Church feast days and her accurate accounting of the historical facts give it that extra dose of authenticity. I can’t wait to see where she takes me on her next Templar tale.

Twice widowed on her wedding night, Ysmaine de Valeroy came to Jerusalem on a pilgrimage to dispel whatever husband curse she’d been put under. When she meets a handsome knight who vows to wed her, she has to wonder if he’s an answer to her prayers or the devil come to take his due.
Upon his brother’s death, Gaston de Chamount, knight of the Templar finds himself the new Baron of his family’s French estate. He must choose a bride before returning to his ancestral home, and seeing a beautiful pilgrim praying to the virgin his choice is made.
Before they can depart war erupts between Christians and infidels. With the fall of the city imminent, the chief Templar entrusts Gaston and other loyal travelers with one last sacred quest to Paris.

[Candace · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gaston and Ysmaine

Gaston receives dreadful news from his sister-in-law. His brother has died. Gaston has become Baron Châmont-sur-Maine and must resign his commission as a Templar Knight. Gaston also feels he must find a bride.

Ysmaine de Valroy with her maid, Radegunde, are on a pilgrimage in Jerusalem. After two husbands die, Ysmaine feels she is cursed and must pay penance. Radegunde falls ill, and neither Ysmaine nor her maid have eaten in a few days.

Gaston has been watching Ysmaine come to pray for two days. When she rises to leave, Gaston gives her money for food. He is surprised when Ysmaine asks for an apothecary. Gaston decides her heart is in the right spot when he finds out she will go without food to buy medicine for her maid. He not only takes her to the best apothecary, but also purchases Ysmaine and Radegunde supper. When Ysmaine protests, he tells her she will be his wife. After burying two husbands, she feels she is under a curse. Could Gaston be an answer to prayer or will she bury a third husband?

Another well researched medieval novel to delight our senses. One lie turns into several, yet Ysmaine and Gaston both know the truth despite not knowing each other well. We get a glimpse of the characters's lives during the journey to Paris, France; even the secondary characters are nicely developed. The second book in the series is introduced with the inclusion of Brother Wulfe and Christina, the noblewoman turned harlot. Hence, some of the subplots are left unresolved, but the plot is expertly concluded. I look forward to reading more books by Claire Delacroix.

[☕️Kimberly (Caffeinated Reviewer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gaston de Chamount, knight of the Templar finds himself the new Baron of his family’s French estate. He must choose a bride before returning to his home. When he sees Ysmaine de Valeroy praying to the virgin, he decides she is the one. Ysmaine, twice widowed on her wedding night made a pilgrimage to Jerusalem to pray for her “husband curse” to be lifted. Thieves set upon her and her companions and she is now residing with the Nuns.

Claire Delacroix writes characters that are both complex and intriguing. While Gaston is skilled as a Templar knight, he is unskilled at relationships. Both characters have an air of innocence about them and I loved how genuine they were. Ysmaine agrees to wed Gaston and travel home to France. I adored this couple, admired them individually and delighted in their pairing.

As they make plans to leave, a war breaks out between the Christians and Infidels. Fearing the city will fall, the Templar officials ask Gaston to deliver a package to Paris. The travel is dangerous and tests their new marriage. They ride with friends, servants, a merchant, and other Templar knights all of whom added complications and mystery. I found the plot to be rich and engaging, the dialogue and interactions between the characters brought forth humor, sweet moments, character growth and tension.

The Crusader’s Bride delivered a wonderful quest with twists and turns all wrapped in a swoon-worthy romance. Historically accurate and beautifully crafted Tim Gerard Reynolds did justice to the story as narrator. He captured Gaston and his mannerisms delightful.

Audio provided by author. This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer

[Carolyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another re-read as part of the Age of Romance and Chivalry Boxed Set by Kathryn Le Veque, et al.

I was spellbound from the beginning and could not put it down. Great locations, interesting history, Templars, mystery, intrigue, suspense, a lovely sweet romance. WOW! And the writing! Ms. Delacroix wonderful writing ability shines in this one. It is a fabulous start to what promises to be a amazing series.

[Seon Ji (Dawn) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. The storline itself is pretty good and somewhat unique. It's pretty complex and a bit difficult to summarize.

Ysmaine is 2x's widowed and believed cursed. Her two previous husband died before consumating her wedding, leaving her chaste. In hopes of breaking the curse, Ysmaine makes a pilgrimage to Jeruselem with her maid, and others, to pray to the Virgin Mary for forgiveness for whatever past sins she had in hopes to break the curse.

Templar Gaston has just left the order to claim his inheritance and title in Paris and immediately seeks a wife with the intention of begetting an heir. He observes Ysmaine in the church and recognizes all the qualities in her that make him feel she would be the perfect bride. She agrees and he, with an assorment of kinghts, Templars, and other pilgrims, set out for Paris, just before Saladin and his troops come to Jeruselem to take it over. What Ysmaine does not know, is that Gaston is completing a final mission of delivering a missive and holy relice to the Paris Temple for safekeeping.

The rest is filled with mystery, action, and harship as they group make their journey.

Gaston being celibate for 20 years is very ignorant of women and courting/wooing. Leaving Ysmine quite frustrated and disgruntled at times.

With this said I will begin with what I liked and didn't like:

I liked that Gaston was an honorable man, and one that is very observant of things others do not always pick up on. His character was pretty complex and I liked him.

Ysmaine, was strong willed, intelligent and knowledgeable. She was also very tolerant and patient. I thought her character extremely well devloped, and very likable.

The secondary characters were also all likable and developed enough to suit their place in the story, including the antagonists.

The story itself is unique and interesting, a nice change of pace from typical HR.


What I didn't like:

The author throws a bunch of history all in one batch right in the beginning instead of spreading the information out a bit slower, which made me confused (since I am not a history expert) and I forgot most of it as I continued to read on. This information, however, did not seem so terribly important to remember anyway.

The writing was good, but yet there were times I had to re read some sentences that didn't make sense to me, and I had on occasion, a difficult time geting a grasp on the space created and chartacter positions. It could just be me, for I do not see other reviewers complain of this.

What really brought down the stars was the ending. It felt incomplete. There were loose ends hanging, small ones, but still affected me. There seemed to be discussions between Gaston & Ysmaine that should have taken place, that didn't. The final scene with the antagonist, was again as I read so often, cliched. The conversation with the bad guy who holds a hostage at knife point to me is just ludicrous. I also wonder how Cristina knew all the details of the antagonist when no one else did. Why didn't she speak out sooner? It made no sense.

I was hoping to read in the excerpt of the next book at the end that the story contiues and explains the missing pieces. As far as I can tell it does not.

I am not sure if I will continue the series I still haven't decided.

Lastly the heat level was meh. I kept hoping the sex for Ysmaine and Gaston would get better, and it sort of did but I felt another love making scene should have been added. I felt cheated. I also felt cheated that a one line sentence was added "Ysmaine gave Gaston a daughter and three sons." Huh? It wasn't even at the end. It was thrown in one of the last few chapters before she even found out she was pregnant. AND the author never wrote anything to show that Ysmaine even was! Weird.

All in all 3.5 stars I think is fair. Could have been better could have been worse, not terrible but not spectacular.

[Mak ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stars:⭐⭐⭐⭐
Wonderful: 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
Amei, mas achei que alguns pontos não eram necessário na escrita, mas o livro é ótimo...
Gaston e Ysmaine
Ambos são pessoas maravilhosas. Ela perdeu dois maridos e não teve nenhum dos dois casamentos consumados, se tornando uma pessoa para as demais pessoas amaldiçoada, e em um momento ela decide fazer uma peregrinação para Terra Santa, e durante o trajeto e traia e perde tudo, e sua criada fica doente, e sem dinheiro, ela somente pode ir até o templo da Virgem e rezar, e lá ela conhece seu herói e salvador. Ele a viu e a escolhe como esposa, ele a ajuda e prova seu valor para ela, mas ele precisa terminar uma última missão... 🥰🥰
O mais engraçado é o medo que ela tem de perder o marido antes de consumar o casamento, e quando isso não acontecer, ela percebe que não deseja perder ele, pois está apaixonada por ele.. Ele se surpreende com a inteligência da sua esposa, e quando percebe o que ela está fazendo para ajudar ele, o torna mais obstinado a cuidar dela, e mantê-la ao seu lado sempre...
Lindo, maravilhoso... 🥰🥰🥰
Happy reading, until the next reading.. 😘😘

[Sandee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Engaging, interesting and romantic. I loved all of the characters in this book including the grumpy ones. Lots of perspectives of life at that time. By the end of the book I was so engaged in the all characters histories and challenges I am going to have to read the other books.

[Julie Barrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Crusader's Bride by Claire Delacroix
Love the time frame 1100's and with a Templar knight.
Like how we are taught about Gaston and his life with the Templars.
He's determined now that his older brother is dead that he needs a wife and son and he searches and finds a widow that will suit his needs.
They are both a bit hestiant with love making but scenes are described in detail. Love the march, hwo is on it and those hidden on the journey.
When it comes time to battle Gaston sends the others to the fort and when he knows they will be protected he is able to talk to the leader. Never expectd what happened next.
Totally love the underground tunnels to the sea where he hopes to board the ship the others are on...
Nobody can believe he is not dead...their journey continues through more obstacles and fights.
Yasmine patches him up well enough and he returns to fighting and sticking up for the pilgrimage.
Major kidnapping and burning and you wonder how Yasmine is able to escape...Love when they finally reach her parents home and how they get along with one another.
Hope to read more from this series as I know a few of the characters already.

[AmazingJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Wonderful Story with deceit, robber & murder.

This Story was Absolutely Wonderful..

Yasmine & Gaston were absolutely Wonderful characters.

This Story has a hero who didn't know that he needed to pleasure his wife in any way. He was Adorable in a way that had you think of a shy virgin.

Yasmine was headstrong & yet loyal & passionate.

I Look forward to reading the rest of the books in this Series.

[Ysmaine Vale · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this to be very different. Slow but interesting.

[mad4rombks]

Freebie from author's newsletter.

[Eniko · Rating 5 out of 5]

AUDIOBOOK edition

-Great story-

I loved going on the journey alongside Ysmaine and Gaston. Ms. Delacroix sure knows how to get the heart going with her words. Fell in love with Gaston, his noble and courageous heart and his lady Ysmaine's spunk and determination. Their journey is a perilous one and so many times I thought they were doomed, but luck was on their side and was relieved at the end that they finally got their well-deserved HEA. - 5 stars

Mr. Reynolds is a new-to-me narrator and I really enjoyed listening to his voice. Looking forward to more. - 5 stars

[Morena · Rating 1 out of 5]

This author is either publishing rough drafts in order to churn out as many books as possible, or she simply cannot write. She has done a little bit of research and wow she makes sure the reader knows it. The heroine wasn't as cringy as they usually are in these books, but her snooping made little sense and the misunderstanding with the nightshade was so contrived I skipped every mention of it. I am such a sucker for medieval stories I try out even garbage like this. Mea culpa.

[Moonlight 🌸 · Rating 5 out of 5]

The tale of how Ysmaine (a really cute name!) found herself in Jerusalem was really catchy. And I enjoyed reading how Gaston chose her for a wife. From the start I didn’t think it was a good idea for the preceptor to send Wulfe as Gaston’s second. Anyway, I have to admit I was glad he wasn’t the villain.

Ysmaine was a really smart and admirable wife.

[Melissa · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really wanted to like this book, since I got it at Bookcon and Ms. Delacroix was so nice!! But I found the plot setup to be so ridiculous that I couldn't quite get in to it. I do want to know what happens so some of the side characters, though, so I might continue reading this series.

[Sandra Aaron · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an OK Medieval romance, but the characters were difficult to like at times. There were a few situations that I found very unbelievable, and I honestly wondered why the couple fell in love. They really had very little in common, and seemed to irritate each other a great deal. It gets 3 stars from me.

Gaston was hard to like at times, with his refusal to share anything with Ysmaine, and his idea that they could have a satisfactory relationship without love. I also thought that his complete lack of sexual experience, to the point of not even understanding that a woman should enjoy sex, was a bit extreme. I get that his ideas came from his lack of experience or exposure to women, since he had became a Templar knight at the age of 15, but still -- I just didn't buy that he would be that clueless about relationships and women.

Ysmaine was irritating too, with her ridiculous idea that Gaston needed her help to protect the relic they were taking to Paris. He was a trained warrior, but she thought she could do a better job at protecting a relic than he could? I did like that she wanted to help him, but she should have told him what she was doing or at least asked him if she could help him with anything.

It also really bothered me that Gaston and Ysmaine both doubted each other so much. They were constantly wondering if they could trust each other, to the point that it became annoying to read again and again.

I also really didn't like that Gaston let Ysmaine get blamed for things that he knew she had not done. He seemed to think she would forgive him easily when he explained why he did that -- but it would have served him right if she had made him grovel. He should have at least told her he didn't really think she was guilty, but he didn't even do that.

This book is the first in a series, but I didn't really like it enough to read the rest of the books. I didn't like Wulfe enough to read his book, and the reviews indicate there is a lot of repetition from this book.

This is not the author's fault, and it didn't affect my review, but this makes several times recently when I've found a Medieval romance unsatisfying. I think maybe I'm a little too liberated to handle the way women were treated in those days. Even when a woman had a good husband, she was still his property, and had almost no independence. Maybe I should stick with romances from a more contemporary time period ...

My rating system is below.
1 star -- Hated it, or did not finish. I usually only give this rating if some of the content is truly objectionable to me, like if one of the main characters does something really awful, and gets away with it.
2 stars -- Didn't like it. This rating usually means that I thought the writing wasn't very good, the editing was terrible, I didn't like the characters, or it had other major flaws.
3 stars -- I liked it, but had some minor issues with it. This rating means that there were minor editing issues, the story needed more character development, it was just too unrealistic, or had some other fairly minor issue. The majority of books I read get this rating – I do not consider it a bad rating.
4 stars -- I liked it a lot. This is a high rating for me, and I rarely give a higher one.
5 stars -- I loved it, and will probably read it again. Very few books are good enough to get this rating from me. The ones that do are usually classics.

[Barbee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Wow! Wow! Been read this spectacular author since the early 90's as all her Books are exceptional, quick page turners, that quickly engage you in the characters plots and and some true history. Also mixed in a beautifully written loves story with a bit of adventure, mystery, suspense and of course amour - everlasting love. The Crusaders Bride by Claire Delacroix is exactly that!

Jerusalem, 1187


This is the story of Gaston and Ysmaine. Gaston de Châmont- Maine is one of the Templer Knights, a third son by his father's third wife and yet he had just recieved message his older brother has died and he must do his duty and leave the order and take his place as A titled lord and Baron. Now the life Gaston has known since age fifteen summers when he first joined the order is to return home to take his brothers place. Yet before he leave he must complete one last mssion which involves a missive and a secret relic to be relocated. Now with all reports of Saracen movement before he can even request to leave the order a last journey. He also knows he must find a wife and perhaps have heir or two to secure the future of his family when he takes his brothers place as a Lord. He decided to find a woman at the Pilgrimage as he had no family here to find him a match plus not exactly his expertise. As Templer Knights are pledge to be chaise to celibate. Though some do break this vow and go to houses of ill repute for sexual release. Not honorable Gaston. He is an honest honorable man and took all his vows seriously. So now he must find a bride as he watches this thin beautiful woman at the convent praying each day.

This where he find the starving Ysmaine yet when he tried to give her coin well at first she thought he thought her a harlot but when he tells her to eat she explains she wants to use the coin for apothecary to save her ailing maid. The problem is Gaston spent most of life among men and does not know how nor does he have the time to woo and court a woman. He only knows how to be straight forward and gets right to the point. This was the last thing Ysmaine expects or wants, after all she believes she is cursed being a widow twice before the bedding nuptials even occurred as she is still a virgin!

Ysmaine is In dire straits as her maid is so very ill and she does not have the coin to get proper herbs from the Apor. This pilgrimage has been a nightmare as her guard and family friend is murdered. So she is without coin and protection and reduced to begging. As she is from noble family but bad luck seems to find her as they were robbed to get here and having widowed twice on her wedding night and still a virgin. Now even her sisters can't find husbands due to her curse, She thought going on the pilgrimage might help to release this curse as everyone believes she is cursed as her father can not even get he another match. Ysmaine accepts she will never marry again but wants happiness for her sisters future and will do anything to remove this curse,

Ysmaine is as honest as Gaston and explains her curse but Gaston does not believe in curses and persuade her to marry him . Will he survive the curse? Will all the secrets be revealed? It was so much fun and fascinating watching Gaston and Ysmaine get to know each other and how they both quickly fell for each other but not with some bumps in the road too. Gaston also had little sexual experience and has no clue how to please a women and some male chauvinist views as well that Ysmaine is determined to show that she is just as valuable as his horse her competition! Also they have an imposter in their party who wants the relic and it is discovered Ysmaine has recieved wolfs bane from the Apothecary which is poison

Ysmaine at first. idea what Gaston has in mind and does not trust nor accept his generously when he gives her coins for food and apothecary to help nurse her maid. She knows there is also a price and when she find out it is for a wife she is more then a little shocked! Ysmaine does believe she is curse having two husband dies before the wedding night and now even her father can't find matches for her younger sisters. Her reason for this pilgrimage to be free of this curse that is attached to her. It was fun watching these two fall in true and what they will and sacrifice too. As they have a mission to bring a Templer relic to Europe to deliver and this is when he meet Wulfe and Christina secondary characters in this story but will be the main characters in the next book Thr Crusaders Heart. Plus it is a dangerous time in Jerusalem then again even today it is a dangerous time just different foes and in some ways they same reasons too over religious politics. This is a time when infidels were at war with each other each wanting to gain power and control and being at war with the Christians too. War was breaking out as Gaston and Ysmaine are trying to leave the city and there is also a villain thief among them. Yet who is it? Will he cause Gaston and Ysmaine harm and possibly death? Plus it is discovered Ysmaine has recieved wolfs bane from the Apothecary which is poison! Is her story about a curse the truth? Or perhaps she is that cuts all her precious husbands lives short? What exactly is this relic and why so important to take so many risks for the order? You must read this magnificent book to find out.

Also the hero and heroine of her next book Wulfe and Christine are I introduced and bit more then secondary characters too. Wulfe is a Crusader's knight and Christine is a prostitute so the following book The Crusaders Heart is going to be amazing too and I plan to read next. Duncan's story The Crusaders Handfast will be book three thought done in a different format then the other books in the series. This book will be done in monthly installments. The fall book will be released in July 2016. Followed by Gaston's squires book in The Crusaders Kiss and the last book in the series will be The Crusaders Vow which is The Scotsman Fergus storyOf course I plan to read this entire series all secondary characters in this book as Gastons squire will be book 3 and of course my fav is the Scot in book 4! How can you not continue this amazing riveting , thriving, fast moving adventure!

Wow this book is absolutely mind blowing and so much of true history mixed in this fictional this story! Claire Delacroix really did a phenomenal job with this spectacular book! The reason I love read Historical romance! I highly recommend you read The Crusaders Bride and follow with The Crusaders Heart too as this is one series you really don't want to miss. I read and reread this book two times as I absolutely fascinated and ensnared with this captivating story! Loved it!!!





Personal note* Sadly Israel which still has its share of problems today as it did so many centuries. In a sense not much has progressed a country still in turmoil, where no one compromises and this has been going on for over a thousand years!


(The Champions of Saint Euphemia Book Series)
by Claire Delacroix

1. The Crusaders Bride - Available now
2. The Crusaders Heart - Just Released 10/20/2015
3. The Crusaders Handfast- first installment December 2015 see review fir details.
4.The Crusader's Kiss - TBR in 2016
5..The Crusader's Vow - TBR in 2016

[Venetia Green · Rating 3 out of 5]

I adore the concept and setting for this book - and it's the first episode in what I think is a fantastic series concept as well. The fall of Jerusalem, Templar knights, a secret treasure, a journey across Europe to protect said treasure: what's not to love? I really, really wanted to love The Crusader's Bride as well. Unfortunately, I just couldn't.

The writing and plotting was just clumsy. The depiction of emotion, so vital to romance, relied heavily upon 'telling'. Then there was a flurry of info-dumping and back-story dumping at the outset of the book. It was really interesting info/backstory too - I think Delacroix has developed some fantastic story-material here. I just wish her depiction of it had done it justice. The plot too rested upon some rather contrived tensions between hero and heroine. The hero insists on sleeping with his horse instead of his wife? Hard to swallow, when he then just wanders off in the night to get pushed into a Venetian canal. Then the pretended pregnancy was the limit for me. Really, just talk to your husband, woman.

[Nicole Hughes-Chen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a book that was very easy to get into. The story follows an unfortunate lady who meets a Knight and the two fall in love. They go on a mission to deliver a package from Jerusalem to Paris along with others and someone in their party is willing to do anything to steal the package.

The story is well written and easy to get in to; I enjoyed the novel right from the beginning and found it very hard to put down by the end.

The story between Gaston and his Lady Mine is enjoyable and held my interest throughout. I really liked both characters, as well as Radegunde and Fergus, and even Wulfe down the line.

The grammar is incorrect in a handful of places, but the errors are so minor they do not affect the flow of the prose.

The story ended almost like a chapter would end (not the entire story), and I can envisage the path a second book would follow.

I would definitely read more from Claire Delacroix, and I would recommend this book. A delightful surprise, I rate it 4 out of 5.

[Kimberly K · Rating 4 out of 5]

I actually really enjoyed this one. Maybe a setting during the crusades was just what I needed to shake things up. It’s not overly bogged down with historic details, but there’s enough that you know exactly what time and place of history you’re in.

I liked Ysmaine and Gaston and their “modern” relationship. I liked Christina and even Wolfe grew on me. I bet their book is fun.

I could get critical and pick apart a few things: like the time a somewhat important scene was glossed over with no true explanation—like did she just not know how to write the scene so she just said it happened? Idk why this annoyed me, but it was never explained.

There were a few other things but not major enough for me to remember long enough to list. I just remember the feeling.

That said, I had a good enough time I don’t care about any annoyances/critiques. I enjoyed the story and would read this author again.

[GingerOrange · Rating 3 out of 5]

Romance: 2.5
Steaminess: 2
Action/suspense:3.5
Overall:3

Didn’t really do much for me.

To start with the positives, I liked the setting and the author did a good job of bringing it to life. Also, the action plot line was actually quite exciting and kept me on my toes. Usually, in romantic suspense, the actual suspense is lacking but it definitely wasn’t in this book.

I think the romance in this novel was sweet but very lacking. I wanted more introspection from the characters. More push and pull. Just more. The steaminess was not great. Was not well written and was scarce to boot. Gaston and Ysmaine, at times, felt like such one dimensional characters. I did not enjoy all the misunderstandings and at times, the characters were too much in their own heads. Honestly, the first half of the book was also kind of boring.

Overall, it was fine.

[Norma Gorrill · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Crusaders Bride

This was a great book and a joy to read. The facts are told in such a way that they can only be believed as to what would have happened at the fall of Jerusalem. The story of knights and their squires and their opportunities of the life they had to live back when they were called on to fight to save what was all a part of history is but one part of their lives. I enjoyed reading about the people and their plight in escaping during the wars that were fought back in the times of the revolution. The marriage of two people and their return home to their own lives after delivering the sacred items they were entrusted with by the master of the high church in Jerusalem. This is my review and mine alone from a free arc book I received. Norma Gorrill

[Nancy Dillow · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story has a lot of people who are hiding a lot of information from everyone else. The heroine hides herself as a young man who would take care of a knight. The number one hero is taking messages back to his home that will go to very upper people. He says he is going back to France because his brother died and left him in charge - but that is not all. He is a Knight of the Templars. She really has a lot of jewels sown into the hem of her gown. One of the grooms is in reality a young lady, fleeing from a bad situation. Oh, by the way, they are trying to escape Jerusalem, and their destination keeps changing because of the wars going on. Excellent read for anyone who wants to know about the Crusades.

[Patti Wolff · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy well-researched Medieval fiction, romance in particular. This novel is well-written and historically accurate. The characters are wonderfully drawn. The heroine and hero have wonderful chemistry, even though the hero was a bit clueless about "coupling" at first, and the heroine felt something was lacking, although she was not exactly sure what that was. I prefer clean romance, but the somewhat mild instances and mentions of sex weren't bothersome at all. Some were rather humorous. While the villain's identity came as no surprise, the backstory behind said villain did. This was my first Delacroix novel and won't be my last.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ysmaine and Gaston. Ysmaine is twice a widow and has made a pilgrimage to Jerusalem to pray. She arrives penniless with her servant who is ill and prays for help. Gaston is a retiring Templar knight who needs to wed due to his unexpected inheritance. He sees Ysmaine, recognizes her noble past and sees her good sense and tells her they will marry. She also sees his goodness and agrees. The majority of the book is the story of their journey to deliver a missive and treasure to Paris and to solve the mystery of the villain in their midst.

I liked this book, but did not love it. But I am interested to try the next book in the series.