Vow of Deception
Author: Angela Johnson
Publisher: Zebra / Kensington
Pub. Date: November 1, 2010
ISBN-13: 978-1420108583
Retail: $5.99
Pages: 320
As a knight, Sir Rand Montague’s allegiance is to King Edward I. But when the king orders Rand to escort Rosalyn Harcourt to court in order to wed her off to Sir Golan—a crass knight Rand abhors—he’s torn between duty and desire. For Rand has never forgotten the woman he spent one incredible night of passion with…
After suffering abuse at the hands of her deceased husband, Rose wishes to never wed again. But when Rand rescues her after Sir Golan attempts to compromise her, she agrees to marry Rand in name only. However, sharing such close quarters with Rand brings back memories of their torrid rendezvous—and tempts Rose to give in to an all-consuming desire…
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Angela Johnson has another gem on her hands with Vow of Deception. Dramatic, passionate and endearing, this novel is a great read!
Sir Rand Montague is an honorable knight always seeking to serve King and country, even if he may not agree with the request. When he is ordered to escort Rosalyn Harcourt back to court so the King may arrange her next marriage, Rand must obey even if he knows marriage is the last thing Rosalyn desires. Rosalyn’s late husband was very cruel to her and she wants nothing more than to spend the rest of her days taking care of her lands and her son, but she must obey the King’s orders and return with Rand.
When they arrive at court, Rosalyn discovers she is to marry Sir Golan in two days. When Golan attacks Rosalyn before their wedding, Rand steps in determined to protect Rosalyn and marry her instead. Marriage will not solve all of their problems, though. Both Rosalyn and Rand have insecurities they refuse to share with one another and both have enemies that refuse to leave them alone. Secrets and suspicions are weighing heavily on both, not to mention the passion they never expected to feel for one another.
Vow of Deception has edge of your seat drama that made the book irresistible. The plot is complex and intriguing, yet fascinating and romantic. Very early on, you become so hooked, you can’t stop reading until you finish it. Throughout the book, the pace moves quickly and has an emotionally intense ending. It is a story that lures you in, gives you everything and once it ends, you can’t ask for more.
The main characters in this romance are enthralling. Both the hero and heroine are complex and damaged by events in their past. I found myself sympathizing and relating to their struggles because Johnson outlines it all perfectly. It certainly isn’t a simple relationship to move through so be prepared for the intense journey of discovery as both characters fight their way through their insecurities. Rand and Rosalyn have a relationship that is developed with great care and gentility any romance fan would adore. You also have villains who are dangerous and despicable but increase the overall appeal of the drama within the story. Overall, the novel has an amazing cast of characters with great chemistry and perfect dialogue.
You will certainly be able to enjoy Vow of Deception without reading Johnson’s debut novel Vow of Seduction. The characters from the previous novel make an appearance in this story, but it isn’t so complex that the reader would be lost starting with the second novel. Yet the richness of the relationships between all the characters, and their past, would be strengthened by having read the first novel.
This certainly isn’t a lush fairytale story, but a more realistic tale for this time period and setting. It deals with vengeful enemies, power struggles, arranged marriages, unexpected romance and treachery. The ending justifies the emotional journey and makes it a worthwhile and wonderful read. Vow of Deception has fantastic characters, thrilling drama, vivid descriptions and a romance worth dying for. This novel is an absolutely delightful read, one that you should not pass up.
Rating: 8 (Very Good)
Heat Level: 3 (Sensual)
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Reviewed by: Lisa
This sounds like a wonderful and exciting book. Great review.
I love medieval historical romances. I like them with action, a bit of mystery, and as much historical accuracy as possible without sounding like a textbook. This sounds like it will fit the bill perfectly.
I enjoyed your review and it was right on. I loved this story. I should have read the first one “first’. 🙂 Loved these characters.
Carol L.
Wonderful story, compelling characters. Can’t ask for more.
I read Angela’s first book and loved it. I would imagine this book would be equally as excellent. Looking forward to reading it! Thanks for the great review.
Great reviw Lisa! I like the plot of this book, I put it on my “to buy” list.
Gorgeous cover.