Margaret Moore Reviews

Page One

Added January 19, 2006

The Unwilling Bride

Author: Margaret Moore
Publisher: HQN Books
Available At: Bookstores Everywhere
Publishing Date: October 2005
Genre: Romance: Historical
Format: Paperback
Price: $5.99
ISBN: 0-373-77065-0
Author Email/Website: www.margaretmoore.com
Reviewer: Joyce Handzo
Rating: 9 Gargoyles

The Unwilling Bride is a perfect match for lovers of historical romance! These pages have a creative touch of mystery and antiquity, which more than satisfies!

As a child, Lady Constance was pledged to marry Merrick, an arrogant boy who already resembled his hateful and unstable father. The years passed, and Merrick, the man, returned to claim his bride. Yet, he was nothing like Constance remembered. This man was someone she could love completely, but dare she hope for a "happily ever after" ending?

I've often wondered if Margaret Moore has as much fun writing these books as I have reading them! Her characters are consistently credible, and their motivations are aptly described. In this story, an intriguing prologue starts the action, planting some questions while hinting at secrets. The setting is rich in vivid detail and lends an air of authenticity to the tale.

Through the characters' memories and dialogue, the story takes life. The past enters into the present and brings with it fears and concerns. Lady Constance is truly afraid of Merrick, because of the abuse she endured from his father. However, Merrick is somewhat of an enigma. Although he is now the Lord of Tregellas, he doesn't use his imposing strength to harm others.

As a political battle gives way to a physical assault, alliances are formed and a friendship is almost destroyed. Secrets that were concealed for years are unveiled to pave the way for a better future. The weightier issues of trust and loyalty are shown in the memorable actions of these characters. Yet, when the dust settles, readers will know that love reigns in the castle!

There should be no reluctance to read The Unwilling Bride!

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Added August 13, 2004

Bride of Lochbarr

Author: Margaret Moore
Publisher: HQN Books
Available At: Bookstores Everywhere
Publishing Date: August 2004
Genre: Romance: Historical
Format: Paperback
Price: $6.50
ISBN: 0-373-77003-0
Author Email/Website: www.mmoore.net/
Reviewer: Joyce Handzo

The Bride of Lochbarr is a sweet joining of history and romance. Set in medieval Scotland, Margaret Moore's characters come alive with passion and purpose.

Lady Marianne was Norman by birth, but was about to enter into a marriage with an elderly Scotsman. Her brother arranged this union with his own best interests in mind. As the days moved forward to her impending and unappealing union, a savior by the name of Adair MacTaren appeared. Adair had recently visited her brother on another matter, but one look at Marianne captured his heart. He then went on to capture Marianne in a daring rescue, only to encounter the wrath of her brother and his clan. Can there be a "happily-ever-after" ending for this noble Norman lady and stubborn Scotsman?

Sexual tension, complications and betrayal surround the main characters and make their relationship intensely interesting. The author skillfully moves the story along with dialogue and action. The cultural differences between Marianne and Adair create a sharp counterpoint to their physical attraction. Readers will get a better understanding of some of the feelings held by both the Normans and the Scots. Issues of loyalty and fidelity were also brought out in the characters' lives and provided a glimpse into the life of a Scottish clan.

It's obvious to see why this author has won awards for her writing. She knows how to create a story, and is especially gifted at managing the characters. The book maintains a high level of interest, as it develops the romantic angle, while adding a few twists to the plot.

Bride of Lochbarr is a perfect match for lovers of historical romance!

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