Heading Back Into History

It's been sometime since I had time to read one of my favorite types of romance: the historical. But I decided to take a break from the more dark books I have been reading of late and enjoy some fun books for a change.

My most recent pick was THE BRIDE PRICE by Anne Mallory. This book has one of the more original and intriguing plots I have seen in some time.

The central action takes place around a competition. 15 men who have been at the edges of society for most of their lives – third sons and bastards, mostly – play a series of games and amusements with the goal being a title, lands… and a wife.

The male protagonist is Sebastien Deville, a bastard who desperately wants to win the contest, if only to get back his mother's lands which are part of the winnings. He could care less for the woman who would be his bride should he win, but he is intrigued by her cousin and companion, Caroline Martin.

Caroline, recovering from running away with the wrong man, is determined not to let Deville get to her. He is just as determined to have her. However, he can't have her and the lands both.

I love impossible situations in books. I love wondering throughout the book just how the author plans to reconcile what appears to be two conflicting options. And this book handles it all very well. Even with a few hiccups regarding placement of limbs and bodies during a couple of scenes, the book is highly enjoyable and reminds why I love to read historical romance.

Nicole