Promise Of The Rose By Brenda Joyce -

The book is noted for being well-researched, featuring real historical figures and vivid descriptions of the medieval landscape. Reader Reception

The narrative is built on the intense friction between two powerful families and the personal struggle between duty and desire.

" Promise of the Rose " by Brenda Joyce is a high-stakes medieval romance and the second installment in the series . Set in 1093, the novel follows the tumultuous relationship between Mary , the daughter of the Scottish King Malcolm Canmore, and Stephen de Warenne , the bastard son and heir to the Earl of Northumberland. Plot Summary Promise of the Rose by Brenda Joyce

Stephen is portrayed as a "damaged alpha" who is hard, ruthless, and often unforgiving, a characterization typical of "old-school" historical romances.

After a passionate encounter, Stephen discovers Mary's true identity and decides to marry her for political leverage, intending to use the union to secure peace while secretly planning an invasion of Scotland. The book is noted for being well-researched, featuring

Mary's discovery of Stephen's true war plans leads to a devastating rift. Stephen, feeling betrayed when he finds her eavesdropping, labels her a traitor and vows to treat her with cold indifference, denying her the affection she craves. Key Themes & Style

The story begins with Mary being captured by Norman invaders while in disguise as a peasant. Refusing to reveal her royal identity to protect her family, she is held captive by Stephen, her father's fiercest enemy. Set in 1093, the novel follows the tumultuous

Reviewers on Goodreads and Amazon highlight the book's "over-the-top" passion, frequent abductions, and heavy political intrigue.