Reading Room: THE ROSE AND THE THISTLE by Laura Franz
It's been far too long since I've added to the Reading Room, and I can't think of a better way to start 2023 than finishing a wonderful book. I'm talking about Laura Franz's The Rose and the Thistle.
I bought this one because of the cover and the author (I do so love pretty covers on the bookshelf.), and it's as wonderful within the pages as the cover might suggest. Everard and Blythe prove that love is often unexpected and can conquer hardships. The Scotland setting is beautiful with vivid description, and history is sprinkled throughout to complement without overpowering.
This is a clean read. While religion plays an important part in the characters' lives, it reads as historically accurate and not preachy.
About the Book
In 1715, Lady Blythe Hedley's father is declared an enemy of the British crown because of his Jacobite sympathies, forcing her to flee her home in northern England. Secreted to the tower of Wedderburn Castle in Scotland, Lady Blythe awaits who will ultimately be crowned king. But in a house with seven sons and numerous servants, her presence soon becomes known.
No sooner has Everard Hume lost his father, Lord Wedderburn, than Lady Hedley arrives with the clothes on her back and her mistress in tow. He has his own problems--a volatile brother with dangerous political leanings, an estate to manage, and a very young brother in need of comfort and direction in the wake of losing his father. It would be best for everyone if he could send this misfit heiress on her way as soon as possible.
Drawn into a whirlwind of intrigue, shifting alliances, and ambitions, Lady Blythe must be careful whom she trusts. Her fortune, her future, and her very life are at stake. Those who appear to be adversaries may turn out to be allies--and those who pretend friendship may be enemies.
The Reading Room is where I share books, because authors are readers, too. I don't rate books on my blog, but I do like to share books I've read and enjoyed (My mom recommends a few, too.). My tastes are eclectic, so expect to see everything from sweet, wholesome romance to edge-of-your-seat, sexy thrillers, and more in between.