The Truelove Bride

Shana Abe is fast becoming one of my "must" authors! In fact, there is no doubt that I shall be reading more of her books in the future! It was wonderful to see hero's feelings and longings. In most books, the hero's thoughts and desires are not described in-depth. We OFTEN see the heroine being the one vulnerable. But this book introduces a different kind of heroine, one who is gutsy, able to defend herself, smart, and so REAL. She stood by her ideals and her conflict was so well-drawn that I felt her confusion! What surprises me is that the hero was equally well-drawn as the heroine! Usually we get lop-sided characters--one overshadowing the other. But in this, both had their demons (literally)--and not stupid ones either and both felt the same conflicting feelings for one another. I could almost feel the tension and anticipation between the two! Read this book and I guarantee you will be sucked into their world!

This book was a Rita Finalist for Romance Writer's of America and it deserves it. An interesting mix of fantasy and romance and martial arts. Set in the Scottish highlands, in an old castle, loads of atmosphere. But its not dark as much as it is darkly gorgeous. Abe writes with great feeling for both the hero and heroine, which is unusual. Usually the heroine in medievals is believable but the hero always needs work. Not here, Both Avalon and Marcus were understandable and interesting. The legend of the bride was an elegant touch and made their chemistry that much more believable. Avalon is especially unusual as a character. At first you wonder why she acts the way she does but then the backstory is revealed, very naturally, and everything comes together. She makes sense, and you feel for her. She actually has more of a typical hero's role, she is strong and lonely and can take care of herself. That makes Marcus more intriguing too, as he is the only one who could be her match. This is a magical story, truly one of Abe's best works. The writing is excellent and you want to savor it. A keeper.

Excellent. Excellent. Excellent. Uncommonly good. I was up until 3 a.m. reading this story; I could not tear myself away. This is one of the best romances I have read in years. My reader's cap goes off to you, Ms. Abe. This plot can best be described as a supernatural medieval romance. The legend of this story lends the plot great momentum since it suggests that the hero and heroine are destined to come together. The legend is so pervasive and integral to this story that it is almost a third character. The story is made even better by the presence of a strong-willed and intelligent heroine whose misgivings and self-doubt are the central conflicts of this story. Wonderfully poignant romance. You will love this book. Other wonderful romances with similar themes are: Green Darkness by Anya Seton and Fallen Angel by Elizabeth Thornton

I've read all three now, and I loved all three, and I am keeping all three! But this one was the best! Marcus and Avalon are _incredible_, so, so sexy, and the romance between them was breathtaking. His wooing of her was both convincing and touching. This lady sure can write!! Passion and emotion and deep, deep intensity. Can't think of another author quite like her out there. Can't wait for more books from her.

I was immediately drawn in by Shana Abe's magical writing. She has so much power in her words. This is a love story that stays with you for days afterwards. It's a keeper for me. I thought the characters were intense and real despite the magic element and loved the romance between Avalon and Marcus. Plus, it's set in the Scottish highlands, my favorite location. This is one of the few books I plan to re-read. If you want a book that leaves you delighted and satisfied, this is the one.