This is the story of a small town ruled by fear, of a people managing to survive, of secrets on display, bravery in unexpected places, and proof that chivalry is certainly not dead. It's its own extraordinary way, it reminds us what knights were SUPPOSE to be known for, the way things in these baron led towns were SUPPOSE to run, and what could happen if all those card houses built on low morals, and underhandedness...came tumbling down.

I love the Romance genre, but I don't read every sub. Medieval times for me is a bit hit and miss. This one was definitely a hit! I love the world the author created, although I wanted to do worse to the baron and his evil men than William did. I felt immersed in the town, and emotionally tied to its people, making their hardships, my own, but also their triumphs. True, there weren't many of those at the start, but things are always bound to turn up eventually, right? The resourcefulness of these oppressed people was striking, as was the way they cared for one another when it seemed no one else might. The case of purposely mistaken identity was unique, especially since they were a leading character, as was the way some considered those that led alternative life styles refreshing. I was relieved when the disguise was dealt with early on because I couldn't possibly fathom how they were going to volley that back and forth throughout the course of the novel. Avva was truly a woman of courage, strength, and heart. William was certainly a man of his word, stalwart and true...even able to admit when he is wrong and go about fixing things!

All in all, a great reading escape for Historical Fiction fans that you won't soon forget.


**ecopy received for review; opinions are my own ( )