Member Reviews

A Thrilling Conclusion to an Enchanting Series

I have loved the entire The Secrets of the Isles series. Each book is filled with adventure, mystery, romance, and the magic of legends. I was so excited to see how things would wrap up in Worthy of Legend, and it did not disappoint.

One of the things I love most about Roseanna M. White’s books is her ability to craft characters that leap off the page and carve places out for themselves in your heart. The characters in Worthy of Legend are no exception. Emily is such an endearing heroine that I think so many readers will be able to relate to. Her struggles with self-worth and trust are a constant theme throughout the book, paving the way for lessons on learning to stand up for yourself, for what is right, and to trust those that have your best interest at heart.

Bram is a delightful hero most worthy of the title. Who wouldn’t love an earl that rescues stray dogs, has a heart that longs to protect the downtrodden, and is never without a sweet of some sort? His fascination with the legends of King Arthur is endearing and it was fun to read about the search for Arthurian treasure.

Another thing that I have loved about this series is how the lady’s maids play such a big role in each story, having their own points of view included in the books. Thomasina was a lovely character and I enjoyed reading as her story with Enyon unfolded. And, of course, it was great getting to revisit characters from throughout the series, like Mamm-wynn, Libby and Oliver, and Beth and Sheridan.

The Isles of Scilly are characters themselves in this series. These enchanting islands off the coast of Cornwall draw you in with the lure of pirate treasure and knightly legends, and its flower studded shores are dusted in a fairytale magic that will captivate you. It pairs so nicely with with White’s engaging prose, lovely messages of faith, and hints of mystery, and culminates in a truly delightful reading experience.

Fans of Christian historical romance will most definitely want to grab a copy of Worthy of Legend.

Many thanks to the author and Bethany House for a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

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While the second book of this series was my favorite, I really, really enjoyed this conclusion to the series! It was fun to begin to understand why Bram had been so gruff and overprotective in the first two books and to see him learn how to thrive as the person he was made to be. I also thoroughly enjoyed Lady Emily's transformation. As with both of the other books in this series, the secondary romance shines brightly and is just as compelling as the primary one. I appreciated how the author was not afraid to deal with some tough subjects, including several forms of abuse and rape, and how she did it sensitively and with compassion. In my opinion, one of this author's strengths is the way she is able to create stories that involve extravagant and jaw-dropping acts of forgiveness and mercy that really make the reader reflect on the forgiveness we have received in Jesus and consider how that forgiveness and mercy can be lived out and passed on to others. This book was no exception and I am better for having read it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book as part of the author's launch team.

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Wow! What a great book 3 for this series. I have enjoyed these characters immensely and was thrilled to join them once again as they hunt for treasure. I liked how this group of relatives and friends has become a true family. I was drawn in by this humor, the romance and the beautiful islands setting. But I especially appreciated the lessons about forgiveness under difficult circumstances and the extending of mercy when it might be the last thing a person wants to do. These faith lessons were very encouraging. I really hate to say goodbye to these characters but I won’t forget their adventures. Personally, I thought that there was a perfect balance in this book of including past characters and allowing the two main characters to have their story told. Of course, you don’t have to read the previous books first to thoroughly enjoy this one. I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

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This is a delightful trilogy with likable characters and a setting rich in history in a series of islands off the coast of England around the beginning of the twentieth century. We met most of the characters in the first of the stories, some who were already friends and some who became friends and more. In this story, we have Bram, Lord Telford, and Lady Emily's story. They are both such great characters. She is humble and kindhearted with a mean-spirited father and brother who mistreat her. Bram has a cool bored seeming exterior but a noble heart of gold. Theirs is a sweet story filled with rough spots along the way, including danger and suspense. The series is all about finding treasures and now the crew of friends are searching for an artifact that a found letter hints of one belonging to King Arthur hidden somewhere in the islands. There are some great insights into God's love and how He values us and knows us by name. "Walk worthy of His calling. Go forth boldly--and live." I highly recommend this series for lovers of Christian historical fiction with an English history, mystery, and suspenseful twist.
I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley. All thoughts are mine only.

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Worthy of Legend by Roseanna M White is the third book in the Secrets of the Iles series. This is Lady Emily and Bram’s story. It can be read as a standalone but I would highly recommend reading the other books. Especially book 2, I LOVE Sheridan from book 2. He is one of my all time book boyfriends :) I was thrilled he played a part in this story too.

Lady Emily does not appear strong at first but you see her come into her own. She grew up being terrorized by her brother and ignored by her father.

The continuing theme from the series is treasure hunting on the Isles. Bram takes lead in this book as he has the most knowledge about King Arthur and his knowledge helps in this hunt. He seems to see Emily and her emotions when others don't. It was fun to watch their relationship develop from friends to more.

I love how the author makes the lead characters so human. There is a great balance of spiritual themes, treasure hunting adventure and humor.

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I received an early copy for the purpose of reviewing. What follows are my own thoughts:

I loved the themes of mercy, justice, and worthiness in this story. Emily has grown up in a family where she was ignored on a good day, and verbally abused on a bad day. As a result she struggles to see herself as worthy of anyone’s love or friendship. Bram aspires to have a noble character worthy of the King Arthur legends he loves. Despite his gruff exterior he is a gentle soul who builds up the downtrodden, yet he struggles with the idea of justice and mercy coinciding.

I appreciated the way Bram wrestled with the concepts of mercy and justice. I used to recoil at the word “justice” because to me it sounded more like revenge and grace and mercy weren’t a part of it. I liked the way biblical justice was shown, both as the natural consequence of choosing to hold onto evil and as restorative when righteous people seek to lift up those who have been hurt by others.

Much as I love Bram and Emily, I have to say my favorite character was Thomasina. Often times, a character who has been through what she has is portrayed as weak and broken. I appreciated the balance here where she's still sorting through the lies and hurts, but choosing not to be crippled by it and using that pain to help others.

Other fun stuff: Bram's closet nerdiness, more Sheridan (and his sisters! Love them!), and of course, the whole theme of legends and being worthy of legend.

Beautifully written, wonderful characters, love, love love! Thank you again, Roseanna White for writing such a wonderful story!

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I was so excited to get to read this last in the series. I have loved getting to know the families and characters over the span of the books and was so pleased to see how everything turned out for Bram. Sheridan is still my absolute favorite but Bram can definitely hold his own. His love of animals was so special and gave that grump an approachable air. Emily was the perfect match for him and gave him the chance to be the brace Knight he longed to be. One of my favorite parts was the intentional miss pronouncements of Telford and Vandemeer’s names by each other. Those were clever and funny and made them so much more entertaining to read about. The legends and history woven into these stories has been so fun to read and I am going to miss the discussions and discoveries included I this series. I most highly recommend this story and the series to those who enjoy historical events and such paired with a nice dose of humor and romance. It’s definitely not to be missed!

I received this temporary complimentary ebook from Roseanna via NetGalley. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review but am pleased to do so. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.

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Lady Emily has spent all her life being bullied by her brother Nigel and put down by her father. She's at last felt the need to make a stand for what is right, with help from her new friends, including Lord Telford (Bram) - but her father responds harshly, leaving her penniless but still at his beck and call. When the friends hear of an artefact, believed to be something of King Arthur's, hidden in the islands, they race to find it - but Nigel finds out almost as soon, and will stop at nothing to discover it. Bram has long been intrigued by tales of chivalry, particularly those relating to King Arthur, and longed to emulate them. He now has a twin quest: to find the unknown artefact, and to protect Emily from her family - and hopefully in the process convince her that she is worthy, and perfectly able to look after herself. Will he succeed? And in the process, will he learn or reject what Emily has to teach about true chivalry, grace?

This book was inspiring, moving, and deeply satisfying. Not having read the previous books in the series yet (sadly), I did feel a little lost among all the characters at the start, because there was clearly back story I was missing - but I'm so very glad I kept going. I was quickly drawn in and held riveted by all that was going on, both in terms of the treasure hunt and in terms of Emily gradually finding her feet. The relationship between Emily and Bram developed fairly slowly, but that worked well because Emily in particular had a lot of baggage to work through - and needed all Bram's support. Emily's father and brother were infuriating - which made Emily's efforts to reach out to them all the more challenging and inspiring. It's easy to love the lovable, but we're called to pray for our enemies. All of this made for a book well worth reading - and the end was absolutely perfect and deeply satisfying. Summary: an amazing story, highly recommended.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

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Worthy of Legend is the third book in Roseanna M. White's The Secrets of the Isles series. While it will work as a stand-alone read, it will be more fully enjoyed by reading the series in order. Who wouldn't want to read a well-written series that is full of lords, ladies, folklore, and hunts for pirate treasure? The books are set on the beautiful Isles of Scilly in the early 1900s. In this book the characters have enjoyed a wonderful summer of adventure together, but as autumn draws near, might they make time for the greatest treasure hunt of all? Throughout all of the group's exploits might they find an even greater treasure than the one they seek, the knowledge of God's mercy? Readers might also discover a deeper level of showing mercy, especially to those who seemingly deserve it the least. They will certainly enjoy the hunt.

I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of Worthy of Legend from Bethany House via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

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Lady Emily Scofield has found a refuge among friends on the Isles of Scilly. Her frie don't hold the actions of her brother Nigel against her. They don't want her to confirm to their whims the way her father does. If only her family loved her so well as this group we've gotten to know through the pages of The Secrets of the Isles series.

There is more treasure to be found. This time it's rumored that an artifact that once belonged to King Arthur himself has been hidden on the islands. Lord Telford has been captivated by Arthurian legend since he was a boy, which makes this quest all the more personal. As a self-proclaimed protector of weak and wounded creatures, he also can't help but see the needs in Lady Emily's life. Can he help her the way he does with furry creatures?

Lord Telford, Lady Emily, and the gang are not the only ones after this hidden treasure. Nigel is pursuing it just as doggedly, and without noble intention. Can they find it before he does? This series comes to an exciting and stormy ending which will satisfy every reader.

This was my favorite book of the series. I really enjoyed and in many ways empathized with Lady Emily as a heroine, and I loved Lord Telford's sensitivity as a friend and then growing into deeper affection and attraction. The theme of worthiness was beautifully woven in. I also felt like the cast of characters was easier to follow, like I finally got them all straight in my mind. Now they're sailing into the sunset with further adventures to live out in our imaginations.

I received my copy of the book from the author. All thoughts in this review are my own.

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Roseanna White’s Secrets of the Isles series has come to an end in this final installment, Worthy of Legend. And while I loved the previous two books, this one was my absolute favorite. There was something about the characters of Bram and Emily that drew me in without pause. Perhaps it was that they were so perfectly relatable. Or perhaps I saw my own struggles within their own as they fought to not only solve a mystery, but to realize their true value in Jesus Christ. Or perhaps it was their fight to face evil that I so intimately identified with. Regardless of the reason, this book was a masterpiece – the very best way White could have dreamed to close her series.

White is truly one of my all time favorite authors. Her stories not only entertain, but contain a depth of truth that connects my mind and heart. I cannot recommend this story highly enough!

I received this book form the publisher. All opinions are my own.

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Happy Release Day!! What a perfect ending to this beautiful series of romance, treasure-hunting, and gentle, steadfast faith!

Every single character in this series has pulled on my heartstrings - in either large or small ways, I have found their struggles relatable; the heartaches and the triumphs have touched me deeply. The heroines and the heroes - each one has a unique endearing quality to them. First, Oliver and Libby, second, Sheridan and Beth, and now… Bram and Emily. The noble knight and his tender-hearted lady.

Emily, dear girl. I wanted to cry for all her hurts and the injustices and cruel abuses she suffered. A ‘Cinderella’ of sorts, unloved by her family, while her cruel brother receives all the accolades and she is told to keep quiet and in the background. But she is determined to find a way to love them anyway—for their sake, and for her own; not because they deserve it, and not because their behavior is okay, but because she desires to ‘have courage and be kind’ - to love them as God loves His creation despite their faults and wrongdoings. And her heart just keeps getting stomped on by those who should love her best and have utterly failed her.

Bram steps forward and reveals his noble-knight protective nature. He despises the way Emily’s brother treats her, and wants to show Emily how a true brother should be to his sister. Yet, shy and cautious Emily has a difficult time even looking him in the eye; how can he get close enough for her to trust opening up her heart and receiving his kindness? He sets out with only the noblest of intentions; he’s not seeking her heart nor her fortune. And yet, at the intrusion of another potential suitor, those noble intentions tangle with feelings perhaps a bit more intense than mere brotherly regard. He sets off on a quest not only of Arthurian treasure, but a quest of the heart and future.

I really loved Emily’s tender heart and her determination to step out of the shadows and take a stand, in truth and in love. Her cautious journey to opening up and being vulnerable, when she might be rejected - and believes that she will be - is endearing and courageous. I loved Bram’s knightly manner and determination to protect and defend. From book one, he seemed the domineering brother to Libby - trying to force her into an unwanted marriage - but here we see things from his perspective, and the good heart behind those intentions; how deeply and completely he loves and cherishes the women God has placed in his life.

The inclusion of King Arthur legends and treasure was icing on the cake for me. I am with Bram on the excitement and intrigue there! I was rather giddy myself (which is more Sheridan’s style, while Bram just didn’t let his giddiness show, lol) as the plot thickened and the legends came to life.

It’s a bittersweet feeling, coming to the conclusion, as it is difficult to say goodbye to these beloved characters. Which just means I need to go back and reread the series soon!

This story blends well the concept of forgiveness, the benefit of mercy, and the worth of a noble and honorable heart. A clean read, subject matter does include some violence, mentions of rape and its repercussions, sibling and parental abuse. There is nothing of this graphically shown or overly focused on, but mentions may be triggering to sensitive readers.

I was given a complimentary book from the publisher for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own!

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The final book in Roseanna White's Secrets Of The Isles series is Worthy Of Legend. I have really enjoyed spending time in the Scilly Isles. I had never heard of them before reading this series, but I would love to see them in person now. It was very interesting to learn some of the histories of the Isles. The Isles belong to the Duchy of Cornwall, presently owned by Prince William, The Duke Of Cornwall.

The story is very engaging with well-developed characters. I enjoyed the treasure hunt. I have always been a fan of King Arthur so it was a fun twist to involve him in the plot.

I believe my favorite part of the story is the way Roseanna has her characters share their faith. All in all, I am sorry that this is the final book in the series.

I do recommend that you read all three books in order. So grab some tea and biscuits, then settle in for a grand adventure.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.

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Though each book in this series can be read as a standalone, it will be best appreciated when read in order.

Ever since I’ve met Bram in book one, he came across as serious, but steady. The trustworthy friend and protective brother. Shy Emily was clearly forgotten by her family, but a character I wanted to know more about.

Their story was sweet, heartbreaking, brought some tears to my eyes, but also heartwarming and hopeful. Emily endured so much growing up, her story tugging at my heartstrings throughout this story. I loved how Bram saw behind her walls and helped her seeing past the lies her family proclaimed over her, to see her truth worth according to God.

"But one couldn’t expect seeds to sprout up immediately. One could only plant them, water them, and pray the Lord would give an increase."

Bram was the very dashing protector, but also with so much more. I loved his love for dogs and his interest in all things King Arthur.

There was danger, adventure, found artifacts but also a deeper message hidden between this story.

I enjoyed how in each book, there was two love stories, one between the ladies and gents, and one between the servants.

"It is shackles that will drag you down. Don’t let it. That shame is not yours. That guilt is not yours."

The spiritual theme of loving unconditionally and showing mercy was strong and made this thread the strongest for me in the series.

"Because mercy isn’t for those who deserve it—it’s for those who don’t."

A recommended historical adventure!

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*

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“That takes a special kind of heart. To love where hatred would come so naturally and so deservedly.”

In Worthy of Legend, we return to the beautiful islands of Scilly for the fabulous conclusion to an amazing series. This is one of my favorite Roseanna M. White series mainly because of the unique setting, treasure seeking storyline, and the heartfelt characters. I’m honestly sad to see it come to an end. With plenty of action, adventure, romance, and inspiration, the heroes perform one last mission to find a legendary treasure from King Arthur himself before Nigel Scofield and his father find it first. This book is definitely a must read and a fitting ending to cap off the series.

I loved Bram and Emily’s story! There is so much to learn from these two. Though Bram doesn’t like the comparison, he truly is a knight in shining armor. He’s a secret expert on the legends of King Arthur. When there’s a possible treasure relating to King Arthur on the island, he uses his expertise to discern what it is and help find it. In the first two books, Bram comes off as a bit of a bear, but he definitely has a tender heart hidden underneath. His chivalry and love of candy, especially chocolate drops endeared him to me.

Lady Emily Scofield is Nigel’s sister. She’s been mistreated and bullied by him since they were children. Emily feels abandoned by her family when she sides with her friends and aids them in their treasure search. She wants nothing more than to feel the love of family. Instead, she’s met with anger and manipulation. Her father literally cuts her off with no money to survive until she capitulates to his desires. Through it all though Emily maintains her sweetness and forgiving attitude. She’s such a genuinely good person.

Emily brings out Bram’s protective side. He’s always willing to fight for the defenseless and abandoned. He’s constantly taking in stray puppies and questions if this feeling growing between him and Emily is love. I loved how he finally realizes the truth. It’s a slow burn romance that grows from friendship and service. I enjoyed the way Emily’s unconditional love really changes Bram. I also loved how Bram builds up Emily’s confidence in herself.

There’s also a secondary romance between Tommie, Emily’s personal maid, and Enyon Thorne, Oliver Tremayne’s best friend. Tommie doubts her worthiness for love. Enyon is so patient and willing to look beyond what others might see. He’s non-judgmental and gives Tommie the time and space to realize his unconditional love.

This book is a little slower paced than the previous two, but it builds to a climactic final showdown. The inspirational messages of unconditional love, forgiveness, and ultimately the ability to choose for oneself were expertly woven into the story. It was fun to see all the couples together again and secondary characters like Sheridan’s sisters with brief appearances from Mamm-wynn and Senara,

All in all, a great conclusion to a much loved series. This book could be read as a standalone, but it’s much better if you’ve read the previous books. I’m hoping we’ll get other stories or spinoffs from this series. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review. 4 1/2 stars.

Content: There is some violence. Two characters allude to being sexually assaulted but no details are given. The situation is handled sensitively and in an inspiring way.

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🗡🗡🗡🗡/5

Favorite book in the series! I honestly loved all three books in this series, but there was something so special about Emily and Bram that made me enjoy their story the most.

Bram is the epitome of a steadfast friend who is loyal to you no matter who you are or how others see you. He is always the first person to have your back and protect you when you need. And someone who will gladly show you that you are worthy and whole all by yourself.

And Emily. She has been tragically hurt numerous times by her family and people around her. She has never had anyone who was on her side nor someone who chose her over anyone else. That is until she went to The Isles of Scilly and met Bram and the others.

The friendship that grows between these two is everything you would wish to have in your own life. Some who listens and really hears you. Someone who doesn’t let you say lies to yourself and picks you up when you’re down. Someone who always sees the good in you, even during the hard times. Their scenes were incredibly intimate and deep. And watching their friendship turn to a loyal relationship was divine.

I was intrigued by the way this treasure hunting went with the surprise twist of King Arthur, and how that played apart in Bram and Emily’s story arc. I don’t know much about the real legend of the knight, but I found myself oddly invested, like Bram.

My favorite part, however, was that while they might have found the actual treasure, the one solid object that is deemed “the greatest treasure of all time” for any Englishman. They found the treasure of life itself. That finding and choosing mercy above all is true love, the true ideal rather than justice. That mercy is the only way to truly be selfless and live His love.

I completely adored this story about our noble-hearted knight and our kind and selfless lady! I would highly recommend this series to anyone who likes deeper connections and fun treasure hunting!

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5/5 Stars

I loved it!! Bram and Emily were a surprise couple for me. When we read the first book in the series, my friend had told me that one of the definite couples we would see again were Bram and Emily. I did not believe her. I just didn’t see the chemistry between. So I was pleasantly surprised when I read the third book and found that they fit together so well.

Each of them had their own insecurities and questions, but each fit a certain need for each other. I really enjoyed the aspect of not only the mystery and the friendships bringing them together but the hand of God working between them. Bram was a protector at heart and Emily needed that protection to grow into the person she would become by the end. The Arthurian symbolism in both their stories was so nicely interwoven with who they were as people. One thing I truly appreciate about White’s characters is how real and 3-dimensional they feel when it comes to their inner thoughts and their feelings, not to mention the laugh out loud moments those inner thoughts bring!

Like the previous books in this series, there are about two secondary storylines that both align with the main couple and the overall plot while also keeping it as their own story. I felt for Briggs and what she went through and her relationship with Enyon! The American was a nice surprise and, oh my word, I was not expecting that ending for him! But now I need at least a short story about him!

My favorite parts of this book were: the spiritual lesson for both Bram and Emily, Bram and Sheridan’s relationship (always makes me laugh), and Emily overcoming her past and becoming the person she was meant to be.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and publisher. The opinions stated here are all my own.

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This was such an exciting, daring, and lovely finish to the trilogy. I love how it focuses on fairytales and magic (whether that’s the Arthurian legend aspect or the religious aspect). But above all, I now desperately want to visit the Scilly islands!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.

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Having read so many books by this author I still reach for her books every time I see a new one out. She is a master at her craft of creating vivid descriptions we can get lost in, each book better than the last with each series she writes so seamlessly blending together.
She has such a beautiful God given talent for writing. I loved the adventures I read about in this series of the Isles. Danger,suspense,inspiration,forgiveness,understanding,love,romance,discovery,sacrifice,compromise and so much more will be yours reading this compelling book and series.
I was captivated by this historical fiction and it's many plot twists and turns and excitedly look forward to what the author puts out next.

Pub Date 13 Sep 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

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Rating 4.5

Lady Emily Scofield and Bram Sinclair, Earl of Telford find themselves on the Isles of Scilly working together to find the hidden treasure of King Arthur. Bram is an addicted reader of anything about King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table and feels sure that the Isles are where some of the treasure is buried. But Emily's father and brother who are both into archeology are also hunting and will do almost anything to stop Emily. Which team will win and what surprise awaits them?

I found the first part of the story a bit difficult to read due to the number of characters involved, but this may have been my problem as I read #1 but had not read the second in the series. So I would highly recommend that this series be read in order. Once I was more comfortable with all the characters, this story came alive full of history, wonderful descriptions of the Isles, mystery, a touch of romance, a flicker of fantasy and some villianry. The relationship and growing love between Emily and Bram was delightful, and the secondary support of the other characters who were working with Emily and Bram was interesting to follow. The change in Emily's father as he learned to see who she really was as he discovered her brother's treachery both present and past was an excellent theme from the story.

I will definitely go back and read the second book as this series has so many wonderful touches that you won't want to miss any.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

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