Winterbourne

This book has a place on honor on my bookshelf. I have read it so many times. The story is political, but brings to life England under King John's rule. An absolute must have for romance readers. I stumbled upon this book at a second hand store and fell in love. Lord Jaufre de Macy is embittered and ruthless, until love heals his pain. Lady Melyssan is beautiful and romantic, so much so that King John wants her in his bed. Only the healing power of unconditional love can cleanse the Dark Knight without Mercy, and Lady Melyssan is up to the challenge.

This was an amazing novel. I love the whole oil and water thing between Melyssan and Jaufre, and he softens as she rubs up against him. He finally realizes he loves her, and their reunion is a glorious one. This is one of Ms. Carroll's best. A sequel to this one, hopefully about Jenny's life, would be a real treat.

To date I've read all her latest books. This book, however, written several years ago, is without question, my favorite. I rarely reread books, but this and some of Judith McNaught's books are worth a second read. In fact, I've ordered the out of print sequel to Winterbourne, Shades of Winter, at an outrageous price. I sure hope it stands up to this one.

Susan bought the middle ages to life with this story. Melyssan and Jaufre were wonderful. A story about Jenny when she grows up would be wonderful. She is so like her father. It is so diferent from THE BRIDE FINDER and THE NIGHT DRIFTER, but this does not detract from the story. It is so like King Arthur and Camelot, a magical time.Well done Susan on another great read. I do hope there will be a sequel.

So seldom do we get an opportunity to read novels set in this era. I was overwhelmed by the fact that for the first time in a long time I was as captivated by the historical aspect of a novel as I was by it's characters. The era isn't just a backdrop for the lovers, it's a character in the book.Read this book!