'For My Lady's Heart' by Laura Kinsale is a compelling medieval romance that follows the adventures of Melanthe and Ruck. The story is set in medieval England and France, with vivid descriptions of the time period. Melanthe, the female protagonist, is portrayed as a complex character with a dark past, making her behavior tough to like but understandable. The use of Middle English in the dialogue adds depth to the story, although some readers found it challenging to follow. The plot revolves around the evolving relationship between Melanthe and Ruck, exploring themes of survival, loyalty, and transformation.

Characters:

The characters are deeply complex, featuring a steadfast knight and a cunning princess, along with well-developed supporting characters that enhance the overall narrative.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is rich and immersive, incorporating modernized Middle English, which adds an authentic texture while requiring some adaptation from the reader.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative unfolds a complex historical romance centered on a devoted knight and a politically astute princess, delving into themes of love, loyalty, and betrayal during medieval times.

Setting:

The setting is vividly portrayed in 14th century medieval Europe, reflecting the socio-political landscape after the Black Death with rich atmospheric detail.

Pacing:

The pacing is slow to build, allowing for gradual development of relationships and intricate character dynamics, interspersed with tension-filled moments.

The cry rose with squeals and laughter as the ladies of Bordeaux craned, reaching for the prizes held tauntingly overhead by their gay tormentors. Veils came askew, belts failed and sent misericordes ...

Notes:

The book 'For My Lady's Heart' by Laura Kinsale is set in a medieval setting, specifically in England, France, and Italy.

The protagonist, Ruck, is a knight who becomes devoted to a princess named Melanthe after receiving jewels from her as a young man.

Melanthe, the heroine, is portrayed as a complex character, often cold and manipulative, reflecting the harsh realities of her life as a political pawn.

Ruck served a celibate life for 13 years, honoring his late wife, which makes his feelings for Melanthe more intense upon their reunion.

The language in the book is written in a modernized version of Middle English, which enhances the historical authenticity.

The book spans 13 years between Ruck and Melanthe's first meeting and their eventual reunion, adding depth to their relationship.

Allegretto, a supporting character, appears as a quasi-villain and is also the hero of another Kinsale book called 'Shadow Heart.'

The author, Laura Kinsale, is praised for her deep research into medieval history and her skillful use of period-appropriate language.

Some readers find Melanthe difficult to like initially but appreciate her character development throughout the story.

The narrative includes themes of chivalry, honor, and the complex dynamics of love and power during medieval times.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Key content warnings include themes of sexual assault/rape, manipulation, and high-stakes political intrigue, which may be distressing for some readers.

Has Romance?

The romance between Ruck and Melanthe is a central aspect of the narrative, featuring intense emotional and physical connections.

explicit steam level

From The Publisher:

A princess sparks devotion in a chivalrous knight in this medieval romance by a New York Times-bestselling author who "creates magic" (Lisa Kleypas).

With Princess Melanthe di Monteverde widowed, a political marriage would tip the balance of power to any kingdom that possessed her. Determined to return to England alive and unwed, she hides behind a mask of witchery.

Protecting her is Ruck d'Angleterre, a chivalrous knight who never wavers-and the only man Melanthe wishes could lift the veil of her disguise. He once desired her, but now his gaze reveals distrust. As they flee her enemies, Melanthe's impossible love for the Green Knight grows.

Ruck has remained chaste for thirteen miserable years, since his wife entered a nunnery, continuing to honor their marital vows. In that dark hour, when the church stripped him of his spouse and his possessions, the princess secretly came to his aid with two emeralds. Her safety is his duty, yet his heart is not pure. Each time he gazes upon Melanthe's sable hair and twilight eyes, he wants more

Showcasing Laura Kinsale's gift for bringing unforgettable characters to life on the page, For My Lady's Heart is yet another winner from the author of Flowers from the Storm, chosen as one of the "Greatest Love Stories of All Time" in a poll of Washington Post and Glamour magazine readers.

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About the Author:

Laura Kinsale is the award-winning and New York Times-bestselling author of The Shadow and the Star, Seize the Fire, The Prince of Midnight, Flowers From the Storm, For My Lady's Heart, and The Dream Hunter. She and her husband divide their time between Santa Fe and Dallas. Shadowheart won the Romance Writers of America Rita Award for best long historical romance of 2004. Kinsale also won best romance novel of 1990 for Prince of Midnight. Kinsale was 1987-1988 Career Achievement Award Winner from Romantic Times Magazine. She was also Regency Historical Romance 2004 Career Achievement Award Winner from Romantic Times Magazine and the Innovative Historical Romance 1994 RRA Awards Nominee for Best Historical Romance Author.

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For My Lady's Heart

Laura Kinsale

Book 1 in the series:Medieval Hearts