Heartsong by Allison Knight

                                                    PAGAN & PEN REVIEW

Title: Heartsong
Author: Allison Knight

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Publisher:  Champagne Books

Genre: Historical Romance

Length: 248
Other: M/F

Reviewed by: Violet Harper

About The Book: Desperate and proud, Rhianna ap Brynn Ffrydd, a Welsh princess, is captured by a hated Englishman, Baron Garrett deShay, an agent of Edward I of England. Despite the passion he arouses in her, Rhianna must find a way to return home to her younger half sister, whom she's raised since birth. Garrett, emotionally scarred but intent on gaining the respect of his monarch by surrendering a member of Welsh aristocracy, fights an overwhelming attraction and the need to protect this woman, despite the charge of witch that hangs over her head. Can the two lovers conquer the cruelties awaiting them and their own natural animosity, to accept a forever kind of love?

The Review: There is something about historical romances set in the U.K. before it was united that speaks to my soul. The first pages of Heartsong describe a typical conflict—a Welsh princess is hiding from an invading English lord in a cave, protecting her younger brother who is heir to the kingdom. The plot is dramatic, but not original. Rhianna and Garrett are separated by a number of barriers, first because they are enemies and she is his captive. After they fall in love, all the usual things happen. Her brothers come to rescue her. Garrett sends her away to hide her. Someone bad tells Rhianna that Garrett has died.  She’s pregnant, etc. 

Because the characters are so well developed, it doesn’t really matter that there are no surprises. I enjoyed my time with both Rhianna and Garrett. Ms. Knight’s friendly writing style allowed me to experience the highs and lows with them. The romantic elements were tasteful and heartfelt. Overall, I recommend this story to anyone who loves a good, old-fashioned romance.

Pagan Elements: At one point, Garrett’s enemies try to have Rhianna declared a witch.  A bishop comes to declare her innocence. Besides a respect for life and the use of herb for healing, there isn’t anything Pagan about it.

Cover (Rated 1-10): 9-The eyes in the sky hovering over the castle caught and held my interest. I would have picked this up in a heartbeat based on the cover.

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