If I Had You [Hardcover]

Lynn Kurland (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: 2000

Robin and Anne have loved each other since childhood. But after a humiliating incident, their relationship soured and Robin went away for five years. Now that he's returned, it's apparent their love is still alive, but the distance between them has only grown. When attempts are made on Anne's life, Robin becomes her bodyguard...

Product Details

• Hardcover: 433 pages
• Publisher: Berkley (2000)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0739413201
• ISBN-13: 978-0739413203
• Product Dimensions: 8.1 x 5.5 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.4 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.1 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (39 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,990,159 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

52 of 56 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Sexual Content: Rated G, October 15, 2000

By 

Tina "tinaellorascave" (United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: If I Had You (Mass Market Paperback)

The upside to "If I Had You" is that the latest installment of the de Piaget saga is a relatively strong one. The downside is that its strength doesn't come into play until the last 180 pages of the novel. The first 250 pages of the book are redundant and exasperating, with misunderstandings and miscommunications being used far too often (and over silly things) to keep Anne and Robin apart.

There are several positive aspects to "If I Had You". Speculation that arose in "Another Chance to Dream" concerning Robin's heritage is laid to rest, making this novel worth reading for that aspect of it alone. The love relationship between the protagonists is heart-warming and endearing, and the story line contains Kurland's usual witticisms and humorous dialogue. The negative aspect of the book, and the reason I can't give it more than a 3, is that all of the aforementioned positive aspects occur in the last 180 pages.

"If I Had You" is an entertaining read, but there is no question that Kurland is capable of better.

(sexual content G = love scenes, but no description of consummations)

10 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A SURE Winner!, January 22, 2003

By 

M. Rondeau (West Springfield, MA United States) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: If I Had You (Mass Market Paperback)

Anne of Fenwyck has loved her foster brother, Robin de Piaget, since they were children. Robin was smitten himself when he first laid eyes on her, and boys being boys, he put a frog down her dress to show his affection. When they were younger, the two of them had been as close as could be, but because of an act of humiliation Robin felt so profound, he kept himself and his heart away from Anne for fear that she would find him lacking. As soon as he could, he went off to war, determined to forget Anne, and prove himself.

Robin has grown up to become a most fierce and feared knight and has stayed away for five long years yet when he learns that Anne's father is husband-hunting he rushes home before it is too late. Proficient in war, but unskilled in wooing his surliness soon works to a distinct disadvantage as he tries to get on Anne's good side.

Knowing Robin's heart better than he knows himself, his brother Nicolas and his very strong-willed and domineering grandmother set out to bring a bit of chivalry to this fearsome knight! As if Robin didn't have enough on his plate trying to woo his lady, there is an evil plot afoot to take Anne from him before he ever makes her his.

I have to credit Kurland with creating a most beautiful and enjoyable love story. I absolutely adored the love and warmth portrayed by the sibling rivalries of this loving de Piaget family. It was both hilarious and touching to `feel' the love and tenderness between these siblings as they beat on each other whether it be with words or fists. Her portrayal of Robin so manly and strong, yet so boyishly awkward when trying to woo Anne was nothing short of brilliant. Kurland draws you in and makes you one of the family, and I can hardly wait to for the next family reunion. Highly entertaining and heartwarming, this book will retain a space on my keeper shelf.

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Medieval romance was never like this, October 10, 2000

By 

Harriet Klausner - See all my reviews
(#1 Hall OF FAME REVIEWER)    (TOP 1000 REVIEWER)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: If I Had You (Mass Market Paperback)

Geoffrey Fenwick wants his daughter Anne married immediately. Though she has no takers due to her crippled leg, Geoffrey feels her large dowry should prove enough incentive to complete the deed. While visiting Artane, a fortress that Anne loves, Geoffrey makes it clear that Anne will marry soon. Anne only wants Robin, the heir to Artane, but he has hidden from her as if he is ashamed of her appearance.

Robin has just returned home after fighting overseas, a place he hid after suffering a humiliation in front of his beloved Anne. He wants to tell Anne he loves her, but cannot find the words. Instead, he is harsh with her, making it even more difficult to tell her he loves her. Complicating matters is a plot to kill Anne, Robin, and his siblings.

Lynn Kurland always provides her audience with an exciting tale and her latest medieval romance, IF I HAD YOU, will enhance her reputation. The story line is crisp, fast-paced, and provides much insight into early twelfth century life. Though readers will have no empathy for the inept Robin, the audience will root for Anne and Robin's siblings to succeed. Overall, sub-genre fans will enjoy this warm historical romance.

Harriet Klausner