Also in this series: A Scoundrel's Kiss
Series: Restoration #2
Published by Avon on February 8th 2000
Genres: Historical Romance, Restoration Era
Pages: 384
Format: Paperback
Source: Library
ISBN: 0380802686
By the king's command, Sir Richard Blythe has reluctantly agreed to wed—for that is the only way to regain his birthright. But he never expected to be smitten by the lovely bride who has been forced upon him. To own the heart and soul of Elissa Longbourne, Sir Richard would be willing to forsake all other women; yet he realizes that it will take more than a marriage vow to free the passion he sees simmering in the stubborn beauty's eyes. So the notorious nobleman sets out to tame his willful wife—one slow, luxurious kiss at a time...
Elissa refuses to love her bridegroom, even though he is so maddeningly handsome that he had stolen her breath away upon her very first glance. Richard Blythe is a husband to be feared. Now he holds the key to Elissa's young son's legacy in his powerful hands. Dare a pretty widow trust a rogue such as he with her heart?
Summary
Elissa Longbourne has come to London at the King’s request. Elissa is a recent widow and has been holding their lands together. Elissa has a son who is heir to those lands. When she is summoned, she is curious but also apprehensive. All she wants is to live a peaceful life and raise her son as she sees fit and not be dictated to. She is shocked to learn that the King is demanding she marry Sir Richard Blythe. Sir Richard, has been wanting his birthright, but when he went away to fight in the wars alongside the King, he lost everything due to foolish choices by his parents. He has been trying to find a way to get those lands back. So even though he would prefer to choose his own wife, is willing to marry Elissa. But Elissa hasn’t played all of her cards yet, and she has an ace up her sleeve. She uses it and Richard is furious, but there is nothing he can do about it. Richard senses a passion and depth to Elissa and is determined to find the woman beneath her cold exterior. Will Elissa be able to open her heart to Richard and find a love she has always dreamed of?
The Hero
Richard Blythe, hasn’t exactly had the best cards dealt to him. He was scandalized as a boy, his parents were known for their scandals and sexual adventures, and his parents used each other and it was a bitter childhood for Richard and he learned to grow up fast. But the scandal of his parents has always haunted him. He leaves the land he has always loved and went to help fight in the war. He gained friendships, one with the King whom he fought side by side with. But now Richard is determined to gain his land back when it was taken away while he was fighting for his country. Richard is such a hero, he is a warrior and has had to learn to be tough, but he also has compassion and is quite understanding. His character has a level of depth of emotion you don’t see at first. We see layers beneath his warrior exterior.
The Heroine
Elissa Longbourne, married a man out of convenience and, of course, she had little choice. Her marriage wasn’t exactly roses, and when her husband died, she was left with a son and a freedom she has embraced. Elissa is quite dedicated to her son and is willing to do anything to make sure he has a secure future, even if that means marrying again and giving away the freedom she has loved. Elissa’s character is quite different from Richard. At first she seems a bit meek but she has a fiery nature and is quite cunning when its needed. I really enjoyed her creativity and her sense of love for her son. She is quite stubborn at times and hardheaded. At first I didn’t know what to think of her character, but by the end of the story, she grew on me. I understood her reasons and even though she was a bit unfair to Richard at times, I could also understand her reasoning.
Plot and Story Line
A Rogue’s Embrace is a stunning story that is definitely Margaret Moore and I fell in love with it. This book is set in the 17th century…the period of enlightenment. This is such a unique time period, and we don’t see this setting very often in historical’s. So I just soaked up every detail of the story. One of my favorite aspects of Margaret Moore’s writing is how detailed she is, and the way she just makes a story come alive for the reader. What was most appealing was the spark between these two. They have had it from the beginning of the story, and even though they didn’t like each other very much, that spark builds gradually throughout the story. There are some misunderstandings between the two, and what fireworks! Both Elissa and Richard are both proud and their personalities tend to clash. They are also so stubborn they both refuse to really listen to each other and even though sometimes it could get a bit annoying, I also felt so entertained by their antics. A Rogue’s Embrace is a slow building romance, with various facets of a romantic relationship that is revealed. Stunning in historic detail, vivid in its romantic elements and quite a satisfying read!!
The Cover
I love the old classic style of the cover we have here. I love the tones of the colors, and her dress is very realistic to the time period. Then we have the beautiful estate in the background, with the pond and the swan (which adds such a classy touch). This cover may not be for everyone, but I love how real it seems.
Overall View
A Rogue’s Embrace, is a beautifully written historical romance that is full of heartwarming romance moments, evidence of character growth and a love story of healing and desire.
I love how many throwback novels that you both read and review. It’s one of my favorite things about your blog! 🙂
*blushing* thank you!! That is one of the nicest compliments I have ever received. I love the older romances though. The new stuff is great, but there is something so much more engaging about these older books that get overlooked.
I love character growth in a story, it’s so much better when people learn and adapt than when they remain static ! Great review, Renee 🙂
Thanks hun. I love seeing growth in a story, because its so easy to connect with as a reader.