Customer Reviews

The Truelove Bride

5 star:		(17)
4 star:		(6)
3 star:		(3)
2 star:		(3)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

This book was a Rita Finalist for Romance Writer's of America and it deserves it. An interesting mix of fantasy and romance and martial arts. Set in the Scottish highlands, in an old castle, loads of atmosphere. But its not dark as much as it is darkly gorgeous. Abe writes with great feeling for both the hero and heroine, which is unusual. Usually the heroine in medievals is believable but the hero always needs work. Not here, Both Avalon and Marcus were understandable and interesting. The legend of the bride was an elegant touch and made their chemistry that much more believable. Avalon is especially unusual as a character. At first you wonder why she acts the way she does but then the backstory is revealed, very naturally, and everything comes together. She makes sense, and you feel for her. She actually has more of a typical hero's role, she is strong and lonely and can take care of herself. That makes Marcus more intriguing too, as he is the only one who could be her match. This is a magical story, truly one of Abe's best works. The writing is excellent and you want to savor it. A keeper.

I've read all three now, and I loved all three, and I am keeping all three! But this one was the best! Marcus and Avalon are _incredible_, so, so sexy, and the romance between them was breathtaking. His wooing of her was both convincing and touching. This lady sure can write!! Passion and emotion and deep, deep intensity. Can't think of another author quite like her out there. Can't wait for more books from her.

Okay...First of all this book IS very good. I think the problem for some might be the pace. This read is very similar in pace to Nora Roberts "Irish Trilogy." While reading, you know that's it's a very good book, but wish for a little more..."Pizzazz!" I definitely related to both characters. The heroine was resistant but had valid reasons. And I found the hero to be very... nice. And that's just it; they're both very "nice." The romance is "Sweet," not "Hot." The intrigue is more "Drama" than "Suspense." Which, as we all know, is really just preference, because this book is not flawed, it's very well written. I do wish that I hadn't spent my time on this one, only because I prefer more suspense, and "singe your finger's on the pages" intimacy. Like Sue Ellen Welfonder or Gaelen Foley. I hope this is helpful, happy reading.

Excellent. Excellent. Excellent. Uncommonly good. I was up until 3 a.m. reading this story; I could not tear myself away. This is one of the best romances I have read in years. My reader's cap goes off to you, Ms. Abe.
This plot can best be described as a supernatural medieval romance. The legend of this story lends the plot great momentum since it suggests that the hero and heroine are destined to come together. The legend is so pervasive and integral to this story that it is almost a third character. The story is made even better by the presence of a strong-willed and intelligent heroine whose misgivings and self-doubt are the central conflicts of this story. Wonderfully poignant romance. You will love this book.
Other wonderful romances with similar themes are: Green Darkness by Anya Seton and Fallen Angel by Elizabeth Thornton

I was immediately drawn in by Shana Abe's magical writing. She has so much power in her words. This is a love story that stays with you for days afterwards. It's a keeper for me. I thought the characters were intense and real despite the magic element and loved the romance between Avalon and Marcus. Plus, it's set in the Scottish highlands, my favorite location. This is one of the few books I plan to re-read. If you want a book that leaves you delighted and satisfied, this is the one.

Shana Abe is fast becoming one of my "must" authors! In fact, there is no doubt that I shall be reading more of her books in the future!

It was wonderful to see hero's feelings and longings. In most books, the hero's thoughts and desires are not described in-depth. We OFTEN see the heroine being the one vulnerable. But this book introduces a different kind of heroine, one who is gutsy, able to defend herself, smart, and so REAL. She stood by her ideals and her conflict was so well-drawn that I felt her confusion! What surprises me is that the hero was equally well-drawn as the heroine! Usually we get lop-sided characters--one overshadowing the other. But in this, both had their demons (literally)--and not stupid ones either and both felt the same conflicting feelings for one another.

I could almost feel the tension and anticipation between the two! Read this book and I guarantee you will be sucked into their world!

A friend of mine turned me on to this book. At first I was skeptical because I had not heard of this author. But what a treat! The Truelove Bride was completely engrossing, and I loved every page. It was easy to fall into Ms. Abe's amazing world and believe in chimeras and magic. A touching love story, with a flawed but exciting hero and heroine, which I found refreshing. I am frequently asked why I bother to read "those" romance novels. I am going to suggest to the next person that gives me any flack that they pick up The Truelove Bride and read it. Then they may see for themselves why I love this genre.

I am fast becoming a true Shana Abe fan! This book was terrific, showing us a bit of everything one comes to expect in a historical romance and then some!

By the reviews, you have this awesomely beautiful Lady Avalon d'Farouce. As a child she was stolen away, for her protection, on the night that fierce Picts came down from the hills to slaughter her family. She was kept hidden away by the mad father of her betrothed. She had a terrible childhood, being groomed to become the warrior bride that would break a 100 year old curse on the clan Kincardine. But it was this grooming that made her vow never to become that bride!

Now, the notoriously fierce soldier, Marcus Kincardine, comes and in spite of her resolve not to marry she cannot ignore the attraction that is between them. He is so unlike his father, her tormentor, and she does not believe she is the legendary bride of the fable - she can't and won't believe it.

This story has wonderful magical elements to it, mysteries and latent sensuality. It all comes together beautifully - an absolutely divine read!

Avalon is one of the most original heroines i've ever read about. I had no troubles believing in her or in this wonderful story. It was like reading a beautiful fairytale. And Marcus was perfect. He's very sexy and kind and tough too.All the characters were really believeable, and I LOVED the legend! Lots of great subtext. I know others have said this, but Shana Abe's writing is so good it's almost like you fall into a spell yourself. If you pay attention to the story and the way she uses words you will be astonished. I have all her books. She's one of my favorites.

After obtaining his reputation fighting in the Crusades, Marcus Kincardine returns to England to head his clan. He quickly realizes that he must wed a warrior maiden who possesses magical powers in order to rid his people of a century-old curse. Lady Avalon d'Farouche fits the image of his people's savior. Marcus plans to marry Avalon in spite of her refusal and the objections of her kin.

Avalon's life has been filled with violence and loneliness. After her parents' deaths her uncle raised Avalon to meet the conditions of the warrior maiden. She vows to marry no one as she plans to become a nun. However, to her chagrin and amazement, Avalon finds herself attracted to and eventually falling in love with Marcus. Though he initially saw her as a tool, he too is in love. However, he needs to marry the genuine maiden warrior and not some pale imitation. Is Avalon the manifestation of the legend or is she just an extremely cleverly trained person? She denies possessing any special powers unless love counts as one.

THE TRUELOVE BRIDE is an exciting Medieval romance that continues to prove that the promise previously shown by talented Shana Abe has blossomed into a full bouquet of roses. The story line revolves around the relationship between Marcus and Avalon. Their flaws interfere with their actions and their motives slowly change during the course of the tale, making them seem so real. The superstitions add much to the twelfth century landscape that feels so genuine as a backdrop. Though the climax is entertaining but forced, fans of historical romance will receive great pleasure from a wonderful novel.

Harriet Klausner