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Lady #6
Blackheart
Desperate to put an end to the humiliating rumors surrounding his lack of an heir, Lord Bernart Kinthorpe orders his virgin wife to the bed of his sworn enemy, Lord Gabriel de Vere. Though Juliana expects to feel revulsion and pain in the arms of the blackheart responsible for her husband's impotence, she discovers a man of passion and honor. When Gabriel de Vere learns that the sensual lover who had come to him in darkness is the wife of his enemy, he vows to take back the child stolen from him. Yet something about the woman he abducts turns him from vengeance. But the flower of their love will have to be carefully nurtured if they are to triumph over Lord Bernart and raise the child of their love as fate has intended.
390 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2001
183 people are currently reading
541 people want to read
About the author
Tamara Leigh
70 books974 followersTamara Leigh signed a 4-book contract with Bantam Books in 1993, her debut medieval romance was nominated for a RITA award, and successive books with Bantam, HarperCollins, and Dorchester earned awards and appeared on national bestseller lists.
In 2006, the first of Tamara’s inspirational contemporary romances was published, followed by six more with Multnomah and RandomHouse. Perfecting Kate was optioned for a movie, Splitting Harriet won an ACFW Book of the Year award, and Faking Grace was nominated for a RITA award.
In 2012, Tamara returned to writing historical romance with the release of Dreamspell and the bestselling Age of Faith and The Feud series. Among her #1 bestsellers are her general market romances rewritten as clean and inspirational reads, including Lady at Arms and Lady of Conquest. In late 2018, she released Merciless, the first book in the new AGE OF CONQUEST series, followed by Fearless and Nameless, unveiling the origins of the Wulfrith family. Psst!—It all began with a woman. Watch for Heartless in Spring 2020.
Tamara lives near Nashville with her husband, a German Shepherd who has never met a squeaky toy she can’t destroy, and a feisty Morkie who keeps her company during long writing stints.
Connect with Tamara at her website www.tamaraleigh.com, Facebook, Twitter and tamaraleightenn@gmail.com.
In 2006, the first of Tamara’s inspirational contemporary romances was published, followed by six more with Multnomah and RandomHouse. Perfecting Kate was optioned for a movie, Splitting Harriet won an ACFW Book of the Year award, and Faking Grace was nominated for a RITA award.
In 2012, Tamara returned to writing historical romance with the release of Dreamspell and the bestselling Age of Faith and The Feud series. Among her #1 bestsellers are her general market romances rewritten as clean and inspirational reads, including Lady at Arms and Lady of Conquest. In late 2018, she released Merciless, the first book in the new AGE OF CONQUEST series, followed by Fearless and Nameless, unveiling the origins of the Wulfrith family. Psst!—It all began with a woman. Watch for Heartless in Spring 2020.
Tamara lives near Nashville with her husband, a German Shepherd who has never met a squeaky toy she can’t destroy, and a feisty Morkie who keeps her company during long writing stints.
Connect with Tamara at her website www.tamaraleigh.com, Facebook, Twitter and tamaraleightenn@gmail.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
June 15, 2020
3.5
Ms. Leigh is an expert at writing medieval historical romances. I'm not sure how she comes up with the storylines she does, but she certainly knows how to suck you in and keep you turning the pages.
This was kind of a hard one for me to review, the plot is...unique. Lady Juliana is stuck in a loveless marriage. It didn't start that way, but over time and after a battle left her husband with a lifelong injury, his bitterness and hatred have turned him into a different man than who she married. He is obsessed with having an heir, one he is unable to produce on his own, and also obsessed with seeking revenge on a old friend who he thinks betrayed him. So he blackmails and forces Juliana to sleep with his sworn enemy, Gabriel de Vere. Hoping to gain an heir and get revenge, he thinks this is the perfect plan. But he isn't prepared for the consequences.
So yeah, not the usual trope. I will add, this is a re-write from the earlier version Blackheart, which she has now updated to a more clean version. The first 30%-ish of the book is centered around Lady Juliana becoming pregnant and building the back story between all these characters. When Gabriel learns how he's been tricked, he is livid to say the least. He vows the child will be his and decides to abduct Juliana until she gives birth to his child and then will cast her out.
This was a very well-written story. I really had a hard time putting it down. Juliana is a likable heroine, she is obviously forced into a tough situation, you can't help rooting for her. She definitely handled everything a lot better then I ever would. Gabriel, for all his rough ways, was also likable. You can just tell how much he cares for Juliana deep down, and is just hurting at her "betrayal". I did like that he would go to any extremes to keep her and the baby safe, except for maybe locking her in a tower. lol
Reading this just reminds me of how different our world is now days. I am grateful to live in the present, but do enjoy traveling back in time through Ms. Leighs books. I know this storyline might not be for everyone, but it really is a captivating read.
Content: PG13 for storyline, medieval violence
Romance: Pretty clean. Any intimacies are fade-to-black and mainly behind closed doors. After initial start, rest of the story is clean. Both H/h are good people and don't want to "sin" and regret their past actions.
Language: None that I remember
Violence: Mild-moderate. Some fighting, death, an attempted rape
Religion: Mild-talk of God, sinning, praying - nothing preachy
Ms. Leigh is an expert at writing medieval historical romances. I'm not sure how she comes up with the storylines she does, but she certainly knows how to suck you in and keep you turning the pages.
This was kind of a hard one for me to review, the plot is...unique. Lady Juliana is stuck in a loveless marriage. It didn't start that way, but over time and after a battle left her husband with a lifelong injury, his bitterness and hatred have turned him into a different man than who she married. He is obsessed with having an heir, one he is unable to produce on his own, and also obsessed with seeking revenge on a old friend who he thinks betrayed him. So he blackmails and forces Juliana to sleep with his sworn enemy, Gabriel de Vere. Hoping to gain an heir and get revenge, he thinks this is the perfect plan. But he isn't prepared for the consequences.
So yeah, not the usual trope. I will add, this is a re-write from the earlier version Blackheart, which she has now updated to a more clean version. The first 30%-ish of the book is centered around Lady Juliana becoming pregnant and building the back story between all these characters. When Gabriel learns how he's been tricked, he is livid to say the least. He vows the child will be his and decides to abduct Juliana until she gives birth to his child and then will cast her out.
This was a very well-written story. I really had a hard time putting it down. Juliana is a likable heroine, she is obviously forced into a tough situation, you can't help rooting for her. She definitely handled everything a lot better then I ever would. Gabriel, for all his rough ways, was also likable. You can just tell how much he cares for Juliana deep down, and is just hurting at her "betrayal". I did like that he would go to any extremes to keep her and the baby safe, except for maybe locking her in a tower. lol
Reading this just reminds me of how different our world is now days. I am grateful to live in the present, but do enjoy traveling back in time through Ms. Leighs books. I know this storyline might not be for everyone, but it really is a captivating read.
Content: PG13 for storyline, medieval violence
Romance: Pretty clean. Any intimacies are fade-to-black and mainly behind closed doors. After initial start, rest of the story is clean. Both H/h are good people and don't want to "sin" and regret their past actions.
Language: None that I remember
Violence: Mild-moderate. Some fighting, death, an attempted rape
Religion: Mild-talk of God, sinning, praying - nothing preachy
August 16, 2017
Oh my Oh my!
Tamara Leigh is a skilled storyteller. Each of her books are an invitation to travel back in time to an era we can only imagine. She brings the medieval world, to life.
From the pageantry of the customs, to the action of the fighting, as well as the language of the time, there is nothing left amiss.
Tamara Leigh weaves a tell so vivid you’d think it’s real, and you don’t want it to end.
In this story, you’ll find intrigue, drama, the desire to right wrongs, strong relationships, and struggles over passions which are too fierce to ignore.
Can a wrong be made, right? Can love triumph?
You will only know if you pick this book up and read it.
I highly recommend this and ALL of Tamara Leigh’s books. Her storytelling will captivate you so much, you will not want to miss one of her books!
Tamara Leigh is a skilled storyteller. Each of her books are an invitation to travel back in time to an era we can only imagine. She brings the medieval world, to life.
From the pageantry of the customs, to the action of the fighting, as well as the language of the time, there is nothing left amiss.
Tamara Leigh weaves a tell so vivid you’d think it’s real, and you don’t want it to end.
In this story, you’ll find intrigue, drama, the desire to right wrongs, strong relationships, and struggles over passions which are too fierce to ignore.
Can a wrong be made, right? Can love triumph?
You will only know if you pick this book up and read it.
I highly recommend this and ALL of Tamara Leigh’s books. Her storytelling will captivate you so much, you will not want to miss one of her books!
February 24, 2012
Medieval Romance at its best!
Tamara Leigh has written a classic--a real "keeper" in medieval romances and I'm ranking it up there with the best.
The story is of Gabriel de Vere, the oldest son of a Norman lord who rejected him as his heir to a barony in England because on her deathbed his mother confessed to having had other lovers. Since Gabriel and his younger brother Blase have her dark looks, the father wonders if they are really his. He chooses as his heir the fairer third son. Gabriel leaves, vowing to make it on his own. He succeeds, becoming a powerful knight fighting in the Crusades and gaining the favor of King Richard who gives him a castle and estate in Normandy.
Gabriel’s close friend, Bernart Kinthorpe, blames him unfairly for a wound that robbed him of his manhood in the Crusades. When Bernart returns home, he marries Gabriel’s betrothed Julianna without telling her they can have no real marriage. Since Bernart cannot consummate his marriage to Julianna, he decides to gain a son with another man's seed. Out of revenge, he picks Gabriel, so that he can take from him what he feels Gabriel robbed him of--the capacity to sire an heir. So, he lures Gabriel to his castle in England with a high stakes tournament and then, using threats against her much loved sister, forces Julianna to go to Gabriel's bed in the dark of night disguised as a castle wench. Julianna complies, though she is against the whole idea. (She is a faithful, albeit virgin, wife.)
Believing Bernart's lies about Gabriel, Julianna initially has no feelings for Gabriel other than disdain, but soon discovers him to be a man of courage and honor. In their moments of passion over the week he's at her husband's castle she gives her heart to Gabriel. When Gabriel discovers the ruse, he vows to claim any child that results and have his revenge on both Julianna and Bernart who he sees as co-conspirators.
The author captures well the 12th century, balancing the language of the time with a need to be understandable to modern readers. Hence we know clearly what is going on but we know we are back in the time of Richard the Lion Heart. Great attention is given to castle life, preparation for battle, food, dress, customs and the history of the time so that you feel you are living it. But since this is a romance, the love story is central and this is a good one that kept me reading late into the night (always a good sign).
The characters are well defined and you care about them, the love scenes realistic, and the tale very well told. You won't regret reading this one!
Tamara Leigh has written a classic--a real "keeper" in medieval romances and I'm ranking it up there with the best.
The story is of Gabriel de Vere, the oldest son of a Norman lord who rejected him as his heir to a barony in England because on her deathbed his mother confessed to having had other lovers. Since Gabriel and his younger brother Blase have her dark looks, the father wonders if they are really his. He chooses as his heir the fairer third son. Gabriel leaves, vowing to make it on his own. He succeeds, becoming a powerful knight fighting in the Crusades and gaining the favor of King Richard who gives him a castle and estate in Normandy.
Gabriel’s close friend, Bernart Kinthorpe, blames him unfairly for a wound that robbed him of his manhood in the Crusades. When Bernart returns home, he marries Gabriel’s betrothed Julianna without telling her they can have no real marriage. Since Bernart cannot consummate his marriage to Julianna, he decides to gain a son with another man's seed. Out of revenge, he picks Gabriel, so that he can take from him what he feels Gabriel robbed him of--the capacity to sire an heir. So, he lures Gabriel to his castle in England with a high stakes tournament and then, using threats against her much loved sister, forces Julianna to go to Gabriel's bed in the dark of night disguised as a castle wench. Julianna complies, though she is against the whole idea. (She is a faithful, albeit virgin, wife.)
Believing Bernart's lies about Gabriel, Julianna initially has no feelings for Gabriel other than disdain, but soon discovers him to be a man of courage and honor. In their moments of passion over the week he's at her husband's castle she gives her heart to Gabriel. When Gabriel discovers the ruse, he vows to claim any child that results and have his revenge on both Julianna and Bernart who he sees as co-conspirators.
The author captures well the 12th century, balancing the language of the time with a need to be understandable to modern readers. Hence we know clearly what is going on but we know we are back in the time of Richard the Lion Heart. Great attention is given to castle life, preparation for battle, food, dress, customs and the history of the time so that you feel you are living it. But since this is a romance, the love story is central and this is a good one that kept me reading late into the night (always a good sign).
The characters are well defined and you care about them, the love scenes realistic, and the tale very well told. You won't regret reading this one!
August 14, 2017
4+ Stars
Lady Betrayed is a Clean Read Rewrite of Blackheart; and the last of Leigh's rewrites from her general market publications. I would think this one had to be one of the harder ones for her to do because of the situation our main characters find themselves in. While this novel does have aspects that touch on faith, and the moral struggle that her hero and heroine struggle with, this novel would not fall under the heading of inspirational fiction but that of a Clean Read Romance. That said, let me say that I believe Leigh did a fantastic job with the rewrite. Not only did this novel grab my attention but had me up late finishing it. While there was a section towards the middle that seemed to slow down for me, still I could not put it down.
Juliana is a woman forced by her husband into a situation unimaginable; from his bitterness, anger, and lust for revenge comes forth the catalyst for our story. While, Gabriel is no innocent, he is not the blackheart he is made out to be. The way Leigh handled this situation was tastefully done. She showed the struggle both characters faced with the circumstances they are wrapped up in and their desire to do what is right, while battling their desires that are wrong. In all this, showing that even when you have "messed up" you need not continue in that same path but can choose a better way. I was not sure how Leigh would work it all out, but I knew that she would.
A side note, there is a tie in for this novel with Leigh's Age of Faith series! Sir Erec Wulfrith, son of Helene and Abel from The Kindling, makes an appearance several times. Leigh said she does not currently have a story in mind for him but one never knows! Currently she is working on Book 7 in The Age of Faith series, The Awakening; I am looking forward to its release!
Lady Betrayed is a Clean Read Rewrite of Blackheart; and the last of Leigh's rewrites from her general market publications. I would think this one had to be one of the harder ones for her to do because of the situation our main characters find themselves in. While this novel does have aspects that touch on faith, and the moral struggle that her hero and heroine struggle with, this novel would not fall under the heading of inspirational fiction but that of a Clean Read Romance. That said, let me say that I believe Leigh did a fantastic job with the rewrite. Not only did this novel grab my attention but had me up late finishing it. While there was a section towards the middle that seemed to slow down for me, still I could not put it down.
Juliana is a woman forced by her husband into a situation unimaginable; from his bitterness, anger, and lust for revenge comes forth the catalyst for our story. While, Gabriel is no innocent, he is not the blackheart he is made out to be. The way Leigh handled this situation was tastefully done. She showed the struggle both characters faced with the circumstances they are wrapped up in and their desire to do what is right, while battling their desires that are wrong. In all this, showing that even when you have "messed up" you need not continue in that same path but can choose a better way. I was not sure how Leigh would work it all out, but I knew that she would.
A side note, there is a tie in for this novel with Leigh's Age of Faith series! Sir Erec Wulfrith, son of Helene and Abel from The Kindling, makes an appearance several times. Leigh said she does not currently have a story in mind for him but one never knows! Currently she is working on Book 7 in The Age of Faith series, The Awakening; I am looking forward to its release!
October 21, 2018
Always a good idea to read a book by Tamara Leigh. Once again the Medieval atmosphere surrounds the characters and their unique dilemmas. I wonder what the next novel will hold!
June 8, 2019
Second half completely ruined a very promising premise. The interaction between h and H is minimal and needlessly contrived. Never get the feeling that H is totally in love with her
December 6, 2017
Tamara Leigh has outdone herself. Again. I don't think I'll ever have enough of her tales on my bookshelf or in my heart.
Lady Betrayed may begin with the reader's brow raised, but Leigh sensitively, sweetly, romantically, and compassionately pulls it off.
Well done!!! ❤
Lady Betrayed may begin with the reader's brow raised, but Leigh sensitively, sweetly, romantically, and compassionately pulls it off.
Well done!!! ❤
April 15, 2020
4.5 star, great book! May not be among my favorites, despite that it’s an excellent read.
August 11, 2017
Good story !
Well I love Tamara Leigh's books! I haven't read one I didn't like. I have to admit the premise of the book bothered me.But I couldn't stop reading it. I respect Ms. Leigh's as a person and as a writer, I just knew she would make the storyline work and I was eager to read how she was going to do it! Well of course she did and it is a great read that I thoroughly enjoyed !
Well I love Tamara Leigh's books! I haven't read one I didn't like. I have to admit the premise of the book bothered me.But I couldn't stop reading it. I respect Ms. Leigh's as a person and as a writer, I just knew she would make the storyline work and I was eager to read how she was going to do it! Well of course she did and it is a great read that I thoroughly enjoyed !
August 9, 2017
Happy to return once again to the world of the Wulfrith knights! Lady Julianna and Gabriel's story is for sure strewn across a rocky path, but there is, as one would expect, a satisfying happy ending. I will say that this story has left me hoping there's another book in the near future that might have a tale of love between two of the supporting characters--I'm rooting for you Sir Erec and Alais!!!
Note: This is a clean read, insofar as there are no explicit scenes nor any crude language. That said, the topics broached in this story lend themselves to a more mature audience.
Note: This is a clean read, insofar as there are no explicit scenes nor any crude language. That said, the topics broached in this story lend themselves to a more mature audience.
August 10, 2017
I love all of Tamara's medieval romances and this one was just as awesome. I enjoy the way she snatches hold of my attention and carries me into the setting. She has a knack for making me get attached to the characters and feel their parting at the end of the tale. If you have read her Age of Faith series, then -like me- you'll be happy to see glimpses of Wulfrith references and people we miss. And if you haven't read that series, you are surely in for a treat! Happy reading and God Bless!
August 4, 2017
Enjoyable Tale
Strong plot, sympathetic heroes. The bad guys are very bad, and the good guys are very good. The lady is self-sacrificing and feminine and in distress, and the Lord is brave and manly and ready to save his damsel. It's why we read Tamara Leigh. Sex scenes are a tame PG. If you've enjoyed her other books, the one won't disappoint. She does the time period well, describing battle implements in detail.
Strong plot, sympathetic heroes. The bad guys are very bad, and the good guys are very good. The lady is self-sacrificing and feminine and in distress, and the Lord is brave and manly and ready to save his damsel. It's why we read Tamara Leigh. Sex scenes are a tame PG. If you've enjoyed her other books, the one won't disappoint. She does the time period well, describing battle implements in detail.
January 3, 2025
I am currently (and happily) stuck in medieval land right now, immersed in Ms. Leigh’s ultra-romantic tales. Lady Betrayed is the final clean read rewrite. She has stated this was her most difficult rewrite, and as I was reading it, it was not hard to believe, simply due to the plot of our story!
As with all of her books, I loved this one. It was a bit different, because I was watching a love story unfold that seemed hopeless... and while I wanted the couple to end up together, (not in small part because of her horrid, evil husband), I also wasn’t cheering for heart pounding romantic moments, because I knew the couple would regret it and they were trying so hard to withstand the temptation.
All in all, this was yet another medieval story that I thoroughly enjoyed, characters as well as side characters with a depth I expect from Ms. Leigh’s novels, and an ending that makes me swoon and sigh with happiness. She never disappoints! And speaking of side characters, I always love hers! They are so enjoyable, that I can’t but hope that they one day get their own story. Like Sir Erec...one can only hope he will one day have his own story told—perhaps falling for sweet Alaiz?? Regardless of whose story is next told, if Ms. Leigh is the one telling it, I will be reading it!
As with all of her books, I loved this one. It was a bit different, because I was watching a love story unfold that seemed hopeless... and while I wanted the couple to end up together, (not in small part because of her horrid, evil husband), I also wasn’t cheering for heart pounding romantic moments, because I knew the couple would regret it and they were trying so hard to withstand the temptation.
All in all, this was yet another medieval story that I thoroughly enjoyed, characters as well as side characters with a depth I expect from Ms. Leigh’s novels, and an ending that makes me swoon and sigh with happiness. She never disappoints! And speaking of side characters, I always love hers! They are so enjoyable, that I can’t but hope that they one day get their own story. Like Sir Erec...one can only hope he will one day have his own story told—perhaps falling for sweet Alaiz?? Regardless of whose story is next told, if Ms. Leigh is the one telling it, I will be reading it!
July 27, 2025
I enjoyed Ms. Leigh's other medievals (Bride series) but Blackheart didn't work for me. Not sure what exactly made it not work but I struggled trying to read it.
June 18, 2016
The plot was very original and kept me reading even when I had things I should be doing instead. I want to read every book this author has written.
July 8, 2025
Wonderful!
August 9, 2017
I've been waiting for this one to come out. I really enjoy medieval romances, although I'm very happy I didn't have to live back there. This book was well worth the wait; it is well written, heartbreaking, and full of drama. Faith was interwoven throughout the story as a tapestry. You are going to love this book.
Gabriel was the first son of the Baron of Wyverly but he is called into his father's presence to be told he and his oldest brother are not sired by their father, a whoreson, as such Gabriel would not be the heir. Heartbroken he leaves his home and continues his training. Now years later he is invited to tourney with a man who was once his best friend. Both of them had been involved with the Crusades, both were captured and held until the king rescued them but his friend was wounded and blamed Gabriel for all that had happened to him. He now seeks revenge. When he arrives at the tournament he finds the woman he once cared about but she has become cold and seems to blames him for the man her husband has become, believing Gabriel to be a coward. Has she become a whore as his own mother was?
Lady Juliana is married to Baron Bernart of Tremoral. He was unable to consummate his marriage and has made her life a life of abuse but now he is demanding she gives him a son. He has planned for her to steal a son from his enemy Sir Gabriel. When she refuses to sneak into his room and seduce him, her husband uses her blind sister, Alaiz to blackmail her. Bernart is to get him drunk and she is to go to him in the dark and keep her identity from him. Juliana is able to go to him the first night and keep her secret but the second night he is waiting for her. He takes measures to keep the girl she believes her to be from getting her pregnant the second time but soon realizes who he has been with. Juliana conceives and when Gabriel hears of it he steals her away.
A tale of hatred, revenge, and betrayal with an innocent Juliana in the midst. God has a plan for these two; a plan for good and not for evil, a hope and a future. God has a plan for you too. You might not be fighting knights and weapons but we do have an enemy and God has already fought this battle and won it for us, trust Him and give Him your heart and He will turn your life around.
Gabriel was the first son of the Baron of Wyverly but he is called into his father's presence to be told he and his oldest brother are not sired by their father, a whoreson, as such Gabriel would not be the heir. Heartbroken he leaves his home and continues his training. Now years later he is invited to tourney with a man who was once his best friend. Both of them had been involved with the Crusades, both were captured and held until the king rescued them but his friend was wounded and blamed Gabriel for all that had happened to him. He now seeks revenge. When he arrives at the tournament he finds the woman he once cared about but she has become cold and seems to blames him for the man her husband has become, believing Gabriel to be a coward. Has she become a whore as his own mother was?
Lady Juliana is married to Baron Bernart of Tremoral. He was unable to consummate his marriage and has made her life a life of abuse but now he is demanding she gives him a son. He has planned for her to steal a son from his enemy Sir Gabriel. When she refuses to sneak into his room and seduce him, her husband uses her blind sister, Alaiz to blackmail her. Bernart is to get him drunk and she is to go to him in the dark and keep her identity from him. Juliana is able to go to him the first night and keep her secret but the second night he is waiting for her. He takes measures to keep the girl she believes her to be from getting her pregnant the second time but soon realizes who he has been with. Juliana conceives and when Gabriel hears of it he steals her away.
A tale of hatred, revenge, and betrayal with an innocent Juliana in the midst. God has a plan for these two; a plan for good and not for evil, a hope and a future. God has a plan for you too. You might not be fighting knights and weapons but we do have an enemy and God has already fought this battle and won it for us, trust Him and give Him your heart and He will turn your life around.
April 23, 2018
I just did not care for this book. It wasn't just the plot, based around an adulterous liaison, as I will not abandon a book just for that. Although the two sex scenes were, er, borderline detailed/graphic.
Maybe its just that the whole thing seemed very overdone and melodramatic. To the point that it just became quite unlikely. A reviewer once described one of these books as 'full of unnecessary angst' and I almost wonder if that might apply here.
I mean, seriously, apart from all the agonizing by the heroine about escaping, whether or not her baby would be taken /mistreated and falling in love with an unavailable guy, there's a kidnapping, attempted rape, attempted murder , a siege, hints of domestic violence, and not just one but two possible deadly enemies.
Its not always immediately obvious what everything really adds to the story, so it all came over as a bit OTT to me.
Perhaps it was also that the hero did not remain true to his supposed long-held principles for very long. I mean supposedly he wanted to avoid lechery and temptation and we're told he's meant to be this really honourable man: but he basically succumbed to the first attractive woman that went into his bedroom when he was drunk.
So in some ways, his indignation was rather misplaced hypocritical. The heroine. Well, she was OK, but I never really warmed to her, and the villain came over as cartoonish as it got nearer the end.
Its a shame, because it was set in an interesting period, and could have been quite a bit better, but the central romance and the story-line just did not really keep their appeal or my interest. The ending also seemed a little predictable too.
Finally, I have never heard of anyone being injured the way Julianna was because of an accident on a sidesaddle. I'm not even sure they had sidesaddles in Britain at this time, I once read they were not introduced until about 200 years later.
I will probably read more by this author, as I have her next Age of Faith book (which is a series I king of like), and the first 'Lady' book on my Kindle, but I don't think this one will be a keeper
Borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, and used Audible Credit for the Audiobook.
Maybe its just that the whole thing seemed very overdone and melodramatic. To the point that it just became quite unlikely. A reviewer once described one of these books as 'full of unnecessary angst' and I almost wonder if that might apply here.
I mean, seriously, apart from all the agonizing by the heroine about escaping, whether or not her baby would be taken /mistreated and falling in love with an unavailable guy, there's a kidnapping, attempted rape, attempted murder , a siege, hints of domestic violence, and not just one but two possible deadly enemies.
Its not always immediately obvious what everything really adds to the story, so it all came over as a bit OTT to me.
Perhaps it was also that the hero did not remain true to his supposed long-held principles for very long. I mean supposedly he wanted to avoid lechery and temptation and we're told he's meant to be this really honourable man: but he basically succumbed to the first attractive woman that went into his bedroom when he was drunk.
So in some ways, his indignation was rather misplaced hypocritical. The heroine. Well, she was OK, but I never really warmed to her, and the villain came over as cartoonish as it got nearer the end.
Its a shame, because it was set in an interesting period, and could have been quite a bit better, but the central romance and the story-line just did not really keep their appeal or my interest. The ending also seemed a little predictable too.
Finally, I have never heard of anyone being injured the way Julianna was because of an accident on a sidesaddle. I'm not even sure they had sidesaddles in Britain at this time, I once read they were not introduced until about 200 years later.
I will probably read more by this author, as I have her next Age of Faith book (which is a series I king of like), and the first 'Lady' book on my Kindle, but I don't think this one will be a keeper
Borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, and used Audible Credit for the Audiobook.
August 25, 2017
From the set-up alone, I was absolutely hooked on this book. I knew Tamara Leigh was a Christian author, so my burning question was: how the heck is this going to work out? This question only burned hotter as the story went on. There's a ton of great tension, and you'll find it nigh impossible to put down ;)
The heroine was very likable and relatable. She's been stuck in a marriage for years with a man so embittered by what he doesn't have that he can't see what he does, but she has a strong desire to remain faithful to him... though when he threatens to kick her sister out, things change a bit.
Then there's Gabriel. He admires Juliana... until he discovers that it's not a poor maid but a married lady who has slept with him. Then, of course, he's pretty mad, and Juliana doesn't explain why she did it, since she told her husband she wouldn't tell others of his emasculation. But even when he's angry and brooding, he still treats her with a tenderness that reveals he does care for her, though he thinks she's nothing but an adulterous, faithless wife.
Overall, I loved both the high-tension set-up and the characters.
The heroine was very likable and relatable. She's been stuck in a marriage for years with a man so embittered by what he doesn't have that he can't see what he does, but she has a strong desire to remain faithful to him... though when he threatens to kick her sister out, things change a bit.
Then there's Gabriel. He admires Juliana... until he discovers that it's not a poor maid but a married lady who has slept with him. Then, of course, he's pretty mad, and Juliana doesn't explain why she did it, since she told her husband she wouldn't tell others of his emasculation. But even when he's angry and brooding, he still treats her with a tenderness that reveals he does care for her, though he thinks she's nothing but an adulterous, faithless wife.
Overall, I loved both the high-tension set-up and the characters.
August 6, 2021
This wasn't bad. As per usual Leigh's writing made it nearly impossible to put this entry down and I held on to see how this impossible situation would be resolved. Full spoilers.
Julianna married her husband who had been emasculated during the crusades. Her husband blames Gabriel (his once friend) for his troubles so decides to render revenge, by getting his wife pregnant by his enemy. He manages this by threatening Julianna's sister if she doesn't comply. So Julianna gets pregnant and Gabriel kidnaps her to get his child. The whole plot is bonkers. I didn't care for Julianna and Gabriel much. They weren't villainous by and means and I felt for their circumstances but they were impossible to root for since Julianna, despite her evil petulant husband, was married. It was just messy.
Anyway the whole mishap is resolved when Julianna outs her husband's impotency to the King, who annuls her marriage so she can marry Gabriel and legitimise their child. Bonkers.
My main issues despite the unconventional plot which I still can't root for, is the unnecessary number of secrets for the sake of plot being kept in this book. I also felt that the novel ended realllllly abruptly. All this build up and it ends with a whimper.
Julianna married her husband who had been emasculated during the crusades. Her husband blames Gabriel (his once friend) for his troubles so decides to render revenge, by getting his wife pregnant by his enemy. He manages this by threatening Julianna's sister if she doesn't comply. So Julianna gets pregnant and Gabriel kidnaps her to get his child. The whole plot is bonkers. I didn't care for Julianna and Gabriel much. They weren't villainous by and means and I felt for their circumstances but they were impossible to root for since Julianna, despite her evil petulant husband, was married. It was just messy.
Anyway the whole mishap is resolved when Julianna outs her husband's impotency to the King, who annuls her marriage so she can marry Gabriel and legitimise their child. Bonkers.
My main issues despite the unconventional plot which I still can't root for, is the unnecessary number of secrets for the sake of plot being kept in this book. I also felt that the novel ended realllllly abruptly. All this build up and it ends with a whimper.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2020
Do I Dare Say My New Favorite?! After reading all of Tamara's medieval romances I seem to dub each of them as my new favorite, but as of this writing a new one has been officially crowned! I plowed through this book in less than 24 hours, because I absolutely could not put it down. I wanted to slow my pace so I could truly enjoy the masterful storytelling, but intense need to know how it would all work out drove me well past my bedtime.
Mrs. Leigh did say that this was the most difficult 'clean' re-write she'd undertaken and gave readers notice about the risqué plot line, but Gabriel and Juliana's story was extremely well done and didn't condone nor 'wink at' the seriousness of their mistakes. Proving once again, Mrs. Leigh is the best of the best and deserving of all the accolades and 5-stars. Don't let the content turn you away from this heartbreaking heartwarming love story. You may just find a new favorite, too.
Mrs. Leigh did say that this was the most difficult 'clean' re-write she'd undertaken and gave readers notice about the risqué plot line, but Gabriel and Juliana's story was extremely well done and didn't condone nor 'wink at' the seriousness of their mistakes. Proving once again, Mrs. Leigh is the best of the best and deserving of all the accolades and 5-stars. Don't let the content turn you away from this heartbreaking heartwarming love story. You may just find a new favorite, too.
March 12, 2018
I am a huge fan of Tamara Leigh's historical romance novels. I devour every one of them as son as they are released. So why did I give this one only 3 stars? The writing was just as beautiful as her previous novels, however I found the characters in this story a bit harder to relate to. I'm not sure if that's because of the situations they found themselves in or the decisions that they made while in those uncomfortable situations. Whatever the reason, I found myself angry with the H and h for a good portion of the book and even sympathizing with the villain for part of the time (even though I still found him repugnant and his actions atrocious) because of what H and h did. I will say that I did like how everything came to a head and how it all resolved. I will continue to read other works by this author,
May 10, 2018
I'm pretty amazed that the author was able to complete a clean re-write of this story since the catalyst for this conflict is a man forcing his wife to sleep with his enemy. There is nothing graphic but the topic could be uncomfortable for some. I like Lady Juliana and Gabriel, both flawed but trying to do their best for the sake of others. In a way, I felt sorry for Bernart since his identity as a man was taken away from him. However, even though he could have stopped himself at several points, he still forced his wife to a despicable act. There was a deus ex machina feel towards the resolution but I still enjoyed the ending. And one of the supporting characters is a Wulfrith (Abel and Helene's son!). I'd like to read about him and Juliana's sister! Overall, a great Medieval read with an emotional roller coaster of a ride.
August 26, 2019
A look back in time to when being a woman meant being subject to the ultimate authority of male relatives and when producing an heir was the survival of a legacy.
I enjoy reading Tamara Leigh’s books because the characters are imperfect people who often struggle through the consequences of their mistakes and the mistakes of others. Lady Betrayed was no different. Put in an impossible situation, the heroine must decide how far she will go to protect her family and how to be loyal though she has been grievously wronged.
The hero also must learn to forgive though he was dragged into the middle of family battle not his own.
All in all, a great read that makes me appreciate the independence of women in the modern world.
I enjoy reading Tamara Leigh’s books because the characters are imperfect people who often struggle through the consequences of their mistakes and the mistakes of others. Lady Betrayed was no different. Put in an impossible situation, the heroine must decide how far she will go to protect her family and how to be loyal though she has been grievously wronged.
The hero also must learn to forgive though he was dragged into the middle of family battle not his own.
All in all, a great read that makes me appreciate the independence of women in the modern world.
March 15, 2022
good
Wow. This book was so intense for me. I felt tense while reading it, I think because Julianna is in constant trouble. What her husband blackmailed her to do is so morally repugnant, but she does it for love for her sister and her safety. There really seemed no way out for her. She is feisty though, somehow maintains her dignity through the whole book. Her husband is mentally ill, in my opinion. Gabriel is awesome, though he his sometimes verbally cruel to her. Clean in the sense there are no graphic details described of sexual encounters, but adultery is certainly not clean.
Wow. This book was so intense for me. I felt tense while reading it, I think because Julianna is in constant trouble. What her husband blackmailed her to do is so morally repugnant, but she does it for love for her sister and her safety. There really seemed no way out for her. She is feisty though, somehow maintains her dignity through the whole book. Her husband is mentally ill, in my opinion. Gabriel is awesome, though he his sometimes verbally cruel to her. Clean in the sense there are no graphic details described of sexual encounters, but adultery is certainly not clean.
August 19, 2018
Oh gosh, I liked this one. Not your typical medieval romance. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised. From page 1 I was thrown into a life of conflict, of selfishness, and of a woman who would do anything to keep her ailing sister from harm's way. The extreme lengths these characters go to to get what they want are cruel and pitiful. But Juliana has to make an impossible choice, one that could lead to hundreds of deaths. Would definitely read again. You get sucked in, lose yourself in this medieval tale.
March 11, 2026
3.5 ⭐️ rounded down
Lady Betrayed is a Christian fiction about a lady forced to lie with another on her husband’s orders to gain a much needed heir.
Honestly this was a rollercoaster of a read. Teenage me would’ve loved this - adult me enjoyed this - there’s just so many turns that keep you engaged.
Not the biggest fan of the writing style but overall if you’re looking for closed door historical romance (+ Christian messages) with the plot of a crazy bodice ripper, this one is a good read. In fact, this is a chaste rewrite of Blackheart.
Lady Betrayed is a Christian fiction about a lady forced to lie with another on her husband’s orders to gain a much needed heir.
Honestly this was a rollercoaster of a read. Teenage me would’ve loved this - adult me enjoyed this - there’s just so many turns that keep you engaged.
Not the biggest fan of the writing style but overall if you’re looking for closed door historical romance (+ Christian messages) with the plot of a crazy bodice ripper, this one is a good read. In fact, this is a chaste rewrite of Blackheart.
August 24, 2020
This book was a bit of a let down for me. It is a medieval Christian romance, of which I have read many before that were great. I found out after the fact that this series was a rewrite by the author of books she had originally written with no Christian overtones. It did not translate well to this particular story. I was frustrated by the characters a majority of the time. It was decent, but nothing to write home about. ⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 19, 2019
Romantic clean read
Tamara Leigh writes such wonderful, romantic tales with desirable heroes who interact perfectly with the h. As you follow Gabriel's and Julianna's story, you will feel their emotions and become one with their trials and successes. The romance is beautifully written without a sex tutorial. There aren't many authors who can do this.
Tamara Leigh writes such wonderful, romantic tales with desirable heroes who interact perfectly with the h. As you follow Gabriel's and Julianna's story, you will feel their emotions and become one with their trials and successes. The romance is beautifully written without a sex tutorial. There aren't many authors who can do this.
August 29, 2017
This is a "clean read" rewrite of one of this author's books previously published under a different title. Though I really appreciated the "clean read" and the "moral high road" taken in the conclusion of this book the key plot revolves around something reprehensible and its consequences that I personally found confronting and uncomfortable; thus, its low rating on my shelves.
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