By Starlight (Berkley Sensation) [Paperback]

Marliss Moon (Author)

Book Description

Series: Berkley Sensation | Publication Date: July 1, 2003

About to burn for witchcraft, Merry Duboise is swept off the stake by Sir Luke le Noir-a fearless captain of the royal army. Luke offers the safety she has sought for years-but at what price?

Editorial Reviews

From Booklist

Condemned as a witch and sentenced to burn at the stake, Merry Duboise watched the flames grow higher, certain of her death. It seemed that not even a miracle could save her, until a captain of the Royal Army named Luke le Noir appeared in the smoke and set her free. Now hunted by the church, Merry needs Luke to protect her life. But as she learns of his past and his hopes for the future, she worries more about what will protect her heart. The sequel to Moon's RITA-nominated Danger's Promise (2002) is a deftly woven tapestry of endearing, well-rounded characters richly shaded in medieval lore. Moon definitely knows her period, showing both the beauty and the harsh realities of the time. The grittier moments may not appeal to readers comfortable with more idealized versions of the Middle Ages, but others are in for a real treat. If this book is a sign of things to come, make shelf room for Moon. Nina Davis
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

Review

Marliss Moon really delivers. (Rexanne Becnel)

Product Details

• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: Berkley (July 1, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0425191036
• ISBN-13: 978-0425191033
• Product Dimensions: 6.7 x 4 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 5.6 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,672,445 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Highly involving and entertaining, July 22, 2003

By 

Nisha Glasgow "melissa_mom" (MCBH Kaneohe Bay) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: By Starlight (Berkley Sensation) (Paperback)

Readers, fair warning. Even ones leery of medieval romances. Its simply a great story!

I don't usually read medieval romances but for some reason I was interested enough to pick up this one since the backcover started off the tale with the heroine being burned....I thought it had to be interesting with THAT kind of beginning.

And I wasnt wrong. I haven't read this author's first book and am going to remedy that soon but this one is outstanding. It can be read by itself and the story doesn't lack continuity. The hero, Luke Le Noir is yummy...a strong, gentle warrior who learns to love the bewitching nun he rescues from a burning at the stake. It has that extra special something (can't describe it) that's been missing from romance novels for a long while. I read the book in one sitting (never mind the laundry and two year old baby) and thought it was good enough to recommend here. I especially like how the author develops Luke's and Merry's growing love.

Altogether a good book.

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Medieval romance readers will love this tale, July 2, 2003

By 

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

This review is from: By Starlight (Berkley Sensation) (Paperback)

In 1154 England, Mother Agnes informs Sister Mary that she will burn at the stakes for attempted murder, heresy, and malefaction. Stunned, she insists she is only a healer. Sir Luke Le Noir arrives with his army at Mount Grace Priory. He rescues Mary, who tells him to call her by her real name Merry.

Merry asks him to take her to Heathersgill, home of her mother, but he thinks her brother-in-law, the Slayer, is a better choice to protect her from Agnes' wrath. They reach Heathersgill where they are greeted by her mom and her new stepfather, who explain that Merry is unsafe here as Agnes has offered a reward for the return of the witch. Luke takes her to the Slayer, but first stops to complete his mission for Prince Hal to tear down non-chartered fortresses. As they continue their journey, Luke and Merry fall in love, but she has no haven and he is engaged to his liege's cousin.

Medieval romance readers will take pleasure from this exciting tale that brings to life the vulnerability of an individual with limited or no protection from the powerful in crowd. The plot engages the audience because of the likable lead couple. Though his fiancée is too evil (ask his grandfather) to take seriously, Marliss Moon has written a fine sequel to her charming DANGER'S PROMISE, whose lead couple make a return engagement.

Harriet Klausner

4.0 out of 5 stars An interesting tale., November 15, 2004

By 

Jennifer Banker "Avid reader" (Il United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: By Starlight (Berkley Sensation) (Paperback)

It was ok. In comparison, I liked the first book better, it grabbed me more. But this one was good too. Its a tale about two people fighting everything to stay together. Outside and inside influence. Not to worry, everything works out. It is a good medeval story. I liked the hero, Luke. He was great. Merry is a good woman. Strong, loyal and loving. Like I said, I liked the first better, but this was a good second book that fit well. Its engaging with lots of adventure.