The Rose and the Thistle - by Laura Frantz

I was absolutely transported as I read this book with the vibrant characters, rich historical details, and suspenseful plot. I only knew vaguely of the Jacobite rebellion, so it was fascinating to be immersed in the middle of the politics and how it personally affected the lives on both sides. Blythe is both caught in between and stuck in limbo as she hides in the home of Everard who struggles to remain neutral- disliking the king, yet not willing to be caught up the rebellion. I loved how she develops a relationship with the youngest of the brothers, and slowly learns of Everard's layers beneath his gruff surface. The pace of the book picks up as political tensions rise and nobody is able to remain uninvolved in the inevitable battle. I couldn't put the book down as the romance burned brightly and the action became more intense. One of my favorites from Laura Frantz! Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Warning contains spoilers: Slow burn romance as per usual in the Laura Frantz book universe. I was delighted that we didn’t have to wait until the end. Set in early 1700s Scotland during the first Jacobite rebellion. I loved the attention to historic detail and the descriptive language that painted the picture of the landscape. I think this is one of the earliest time periods I’ve ever read as I am typically drawn to the late 1700s and 1800s but the fact that Laura Frantz is one of my favorite authors, of course I had to read it. At one point I’m almost wanted to throw it across the room HA! But how could I do that to a Laura Frantz book?!? So I kept going and glad I did! Any Poldark or maybe even Outlander fan (sorry no time travel, but there is a Sassenach and a Laird) would enjoy this with Scotland as a main character. Delightful winter or all year round read!

Right away you are transported to 18th century France, then to Northumbria, England, and finally to the lowlands of Scotland. Tensions are high between Catholics and Protestants, and on the brink of the Jacobite Rising. Lady Blythe is sent to Wedderburn Castle in Scotland to remain save while her father is declared an enemy of the British crown. The storyline is interesting and full of historical detail that I love. I was waiting and rooting for the close-proximity romance between an English lady and strong, handsome Scottish earl, but it just didn’t feel believable once they finally decided to pursue it. To be honest when the story ended, I was a bit disappointed. Meh. But, I’m in the minority for sure, the reviews are full of high praises and 5 stars.

Lady Blythe Hedley’s father decides it’s no longer safe for her to be at Bellbroke Castle. Her father, the Duke of Northumbria has been declared an enemy of England due to his Jacobite sympathies. The Duke arranges passage for Blythe to travel and stay with her godfather, Lord Wedderburn. However, when she arrives in Scotland, she discovers Lord Wedderburn has recently passed and his son, Everard, is the new Lord. Everard honors his father’s promise and Blythe is secretly whisked away to safety in the tower. Not long afterwards, Orin, the youngest of the seven brothers discovers Blythe, creating a new set of problems. The novel takes place in 1715 and I appreciated the author’s knowledge of history. It is evident from her details about the location, political environment, and the use of language that she did a lot of research about the time period. It took me a few chapters to get the flow of the dialect when the characters were speaking. The author included a dictionary in the beginning of the book which was very helpful. I liked the characters and there was a good variety of personalities interacting and bantering in the narrative to keep the reader interested. I especially enjoyed the family dynamics with Everard and his bothers as well as the discourse between Everard and Blythe. There were a few slow sections with the plot but overall, I would recommend reading it.

A captivating romance set against the backdrop of the Jacobite rebellion and King George I's ascent to the throne of England. A staunch Jacobite and staunch Catholic, Lady Blythe Hedley must seek refuge from a family friend in Scotland when her father is declared a traitor to the crown. A beautifully written book, obviously well researched, that breathes life into the pages of history, bringing the time and conflicts to life realistically as the story unfolds. The characters are well developed, and drew me into the story. I admired Blythe and Everard for their faith, as well as their devotion to their family and beliefs. Plus, their chemistry is off the charts! A slow burn romance that is not to be dismissed, it pulled me into their world in the most enchanting way, while bringing to life the turbulence of the times. Perfect for fans of lush historical reads, a riveting escape from beginning to end. Highly recommend. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Oh my God! What an enthralling and rich in historical details love story set in France, England and mostly Scotland! This book is a keeper and now stands as one of my favorite books ever! I have the highest expectations when reading books from Ms. Frantz and I’m continually amazed at how she never disappoints and delivers another winner book that stay be permanently on my shelves! It completely captivated me and stole my heart from the beginning. The author’s storytelling is superb and the story never drags. It’s so full of historical details that I felt transported in time and place to the magnificent Scottish setting. And I learned so much from that particular era. Her writing style is almost poetical, so beautifully expressed. I love how she uses the Scottish language and sayings. It was so useful to have a Glossary at the beginning of the book, as there are quite a few words and expressions that were foreign to me, even if you can more or less deduce them from the context. I really felt transported to Scotland, and the Scottish brogue is so charming, aye! The character development was deep and captivating. Blythe and Everard were lovable and relatable characters with a depth and integrity that inspired me. Blythe was strong and determined, yet she was vulnerable, gentle and had a very compassionate heart. I loved how she treated her maids like good friends and the servants with such respect. I also loved her relationship with Orin and how she cared for him with motherly love. And Orin was so sweet, I could imagine him perfectly in my mind, the sweet, fair and lanky lad he was. And Everard, oh gosh! He was the swooniest hero on earth! I can say I have a new book boyfriend right now, as I fell for him as easily as Blythe did, from page one, even when he was rude. Loved his Scottish brogue! And his fierce protectiveness of Blythe and his family undid me. The transition from enemies to friends to lovers was such a sight to behold! Their romance was exquisite, so tenderhearted. It humbled me to see a man as fierce and courageous as Everard, to love Blythe with such gentleness and tenderness. Sigh! I was besotted with him as Blythe was! Also, there is a faith inspired message about trusting God in the direst of circumstances. And how He is the real sovereign and savior. I loved how Everard and Blythe both lived their faith with simplicity, and how they naturally prayed to God in all their needs and were also thankful. The scene where they pray to God before Orin’s bed is particularly sweet and inspiring All in all, a magnificent love story full of interesting historical details! If you love historical romances this is one of the best I’ve ever read! This is a new favorite book in my list and it will be hard to overcome it! I received a complimentary copy from the author but wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.

I've just finished Laura Franzt newest novel, The Rose and the Thistle. Escape if only for a moment to the breathtaking Scottish lowlands amidst the Jacobite uprising. A new favorite from this talented writer, the author weaves this fascinating period of history with an epic love story that is filled with intrigue, passon, and faith. Her characters are both well developed and endearing. The story is just as engaging as it is amusing, and the author's descriptive prose will have you dreaming of the lush countrysides and imposing castles of Scotland. I hope you, dear readers, enjoy this thrilling tale as much as I did.

The Rose and the Thistle is an exquisite story with vivid imagery. Laura Frantz has a gift of drawing you into history, while not feeling as though you're being schooled. The characters are extremely well written and have excellent depth. The slow-burn romance is on-point and sweet. Their gentle banter and delightful attraction is quite enjoyable! Her father's Catholic Jacobite ties leave her fleeing her home and seeking refuge at Wedderburn castle and the safety of her godfather's home. When she arrives and discovers that he's recently passed away, she can only pray that the new laird will take her in. Everard Hume is mourning the loss of his father, becoming the new laird, and now has a young lady who needs protection living in his home. Their relationship has a difficult beginning and some large hurdles to overcome. And each one is enjoyable to watch. This rich, multi-layered story will keep you engaged and engrossed to the very end! I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

Book Review The Rose and the Thistle by Laura Frantz This book is a historical romance set in England, Scotland, and France in the year 1715. It centers around the lives of those experiencing the time of upheaval, and political unrest between the Jacobite's and those loyal to King George of England. The Jacobite's are of the Catholic faith and those loyal to England are of the Protestant faith. It was a time of uncertainty, intrigue, rebellion and uprising. Into this setting we find our two main characters, Lady Beth Hedley of Bellbroke Castle in Northumberland, England and Everard Hume, Lord Fast of Wedderburn Castle in Scotland, meeting in a most undesirable situation to both of them. Lady Beth, a strict Catholic with Jacobite leanings and Lord Fast, a Protestant who had been a soldier in Queen Anne's Army of England, clearly were not of the same faith, nor political beliefs, yet, because of circumstances, they are thrust together much to their mutual distain of the matter. Though the book begins a bit slowly, it quickly picks up interest once the two main characters meet and then is very hard to put down because of the many building controversies and actions being introduced into the story. It is clearly not a romance that is easy to pinpoint, the author leads the reader on many adventurous twists and turns that are sometimes exasperating, yet one is compelled to read on to the end. Although, I am not a fan of politics, and do not enjoy all the talk of such, I did enjoy reading about the lives of those living during that time and the descriptions of the castles, royalty life and countries of Scotland and England during that period of time. The author writes very descriptively, especially using the language of that time, enabling the reader to imagine just what it would have been like to live in those big castles and cities of that day. If you are a person who loves different languages, dialects and words, you will enjoy this book. There is a Glossary in the beginning of the book to help the reader better understand the words and phrases used throughout the book. I received this book free from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.

Oh my goodness how I love Laura's books! I was so excited to read this story since I knew that it was mixed with some of Frantz' personal family history. I read this book slowly taking each chapter in with pure joy. You can't rush a Laura Frantz book as it has so many details that you won't want to miss. The faith message is well written and I appreciate how Frantz handles real life issues and shows how merciful of a Savior we have. I adore the characters of Everard and Blythe and Everard's brothers are even a delight. The history is fascinating, the setting breathtaking, and the romance sweet. This is historical fiction at its finest. I am ready to pack my bags and visit Scotland! I highly recommend any book by Laura Frantz but this one is superb! Five Stars. " I received this book from Revell for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

I am again undone by Ms. Frantz’s powerful storytelling and the rich detail and prose lent to this slow-burn romance set in the Scottish lowlands. Everything about this book was phenomenal! Blythe’s gentle, yet bold, love and loyalty, along with her personality of patient persistence made for a character that I found to be highly admirable. And Everard’s ability to take command in a tough situation, while still remaining compassionate, considerate and wise, was an immediate draw towards him for me. Plus, who could resist that Scottish brogue?! I laughed aloud, nearly cried, felt my heart swell with the fullness of understanding, was nearly lifted from my seat by the beauty of it all and ached with sympathy for the wrongs imposed. The Rose and the Thistle (don’t you just LOVE that title?!) had everything in it that I could’ve wanted. Supremely satisfying! Five stars!

Are you ready to take a step back in time and go on an adventuresome journey? Then look no farther as Ms Frantz pulls you into 1715 and you travel from France to England to Scotland and become immersed in the political uprising of the time. With faultless research you will learn historical details while immersed in a love story that seems like a fairytale. I was fascinated as my ancestors lived in these times and areas so I was quickly drawn in. It is even more interesting to know the author is a direct descendant of George Hume. I loved the characters and their faith and trust even in the midst of trials. It shows that God draws near to us as we put our hope in Him. This story made me an even greater fan of this author as it is my favorite book now by her. My first top read of the year. I highly recommend you add it to your must read pile. I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

Who knew that a religious rebellion, royal controversy, and neighborly scandals could be as fascinating as Laura Frantz describes in The Rose and the Thistle? While I wouldn’t want to be caught between my own beliefs and anyone else’s disapproval, Frantz explores the many ways this happened during this controversial time in European history in exciting ways. Scotland and England have a rocky history, and The Rose and the Thistle brings this to life both on national and personal levels. The way that Frantz relates these in the story make the whole concepts easier to understand. The personal elements up the dramatic factor and while still clearly relating the beauty of both countries. As someone who is (partly) of Scottish descent, I’ve always wanted to see a castle in Scotland, and Frantz’s sweeping descriptions of this country’s beauty only increased that desire. While the historical plotlines are what set the boundaries and made this story move along, it’s really all about the hot Everard and the brilliant-but-bonnie Blythe. Frantz created really exciting characters here, and they don’t necessarily fit the historical stereotypes – which made the book extra fun to read. Blythe is made to be more than just eye candy for a future husband, and Frantz gives you much to think about in terms of what one might look for in a potential spouse. Everard must learn to bear the responsibilities of his station and his family, and that means that he can’t consider only his own personal wants. With deep and meaningful characters set against the backdrop of upheaval, you’ll find yourself speeding through this story. Until you come to a Frantz zinger, that is. I was pleasantly surprised by how many times the author caught me with a line of unquestionable beauty or depth – one that I wanted to underline so that I could come back to it again and again to ponder. I love when books are not only crafted well but also written beautifully. The Rose and the Thistle is both. So if you’re a fan of smart-but-steamy historical fiction, put The Rose and the Thistle on your TBR list. You’re going to love it. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

“You are a lady through and through, with or without a title and nae matter who your mither was,” Blythe is told in Laura Frantz’s novel, The Rose and the Thistle ~ What ~ This four-hundred-and-fourteen-page paperback targets those interested in a historical romance set in England and Scotland in the early 1700s when Catholics and Protestants were at odds with each other. With no profanity, topics of abuse, injury, war, and death may not be appropriate for immature readers. While the beginning has a dedication, historical note, map, and glossary, the ending includes an excerpt from another novel by the writer, an author’s note, acknowledgments, and a biography with advertisements. In this tale beginning in 1715 in France, twenty-eight-year-old Lady Blythe Hedley returns to her family’s castle in England, only to have to secretly flee to her godfather’s home in Scotland when her Northumberia father is wanted for his Jacobite sympathies. When she arrives, the laird passes, leaving his massive estate and possessions to Everard Hume, the eldest of seven sons who has plenty on his plate without having to deal with the misfit heiress. As the Stuarts and Hanoverians clash, Blythe must learn to trust Everard to be safe, even if she is a Catholic hiding at a Protestant’s abode. ~ Why ~ I enjoy novels where I learn about history, especially when it is well written. The author does an excellent job explaining the historical ancestry of the two protagonists as well as their arduous religious beliefs and hierarchal societal norms. I liked the tenderness shown between a man and a woman and how it grew quickly into love. ~ Why Not ~ Those who do not like stories of past British and Scottish clashes may pass on this book. Although the glossary is helpful for the Gaelic language, sometimes it is hard to understand words not included in it as one has to reread sentences several times to get the gist of their meanings. With many characters, initially it is hard to keep track of them. The map is simplistic and lacking detail. ~ Wish ~ I wish a list of characters were at the beginning of the book. Since the book has both Christian and Catholic beliefs, adding the true eternal plan of salvation would be encouraged. ~ Want ~ If you like a historical novel about the love between two people who have different religious backgrounds that became an international political issue centuries ago, this would be an interesting read. I received a review copy of this book courtesy of Revell through Interviews & Reviews, for my honest opinion.

I started reading this book and it was a bit hard for me. It was a slow start. But, I continued reading and am glad I did. I really enjoy historical fiction and this was a part of history that I had not read much about. I was interested also by the geography and my ancestors are from England and Scotland. I felt that the two main characters were nicely filled out. The sub-characters were also easy to identify with if not as fully rounded out. The story flowed quite well and kept my interest once I got past the beginning. What I did not like was the ending felt rushed. There were also a couple of things that did not get tied up. I wish there had been an epilogue to address a couple of issues left dangling. Overall I give this 4 out of 5 stars. I was given an ARC of this book through the Revell Reads program. And even with this being an ARC, the editing was very well done.

“You are still my English rose. While I remain your Scottish thistle.” My favorite Laura Frantz novel to date! I loved returning to Scotland through the author’s captivating storytelling and learned a great deal about the Jacobite Rising in 1715 through Blythe and Everard. Lush details of Scottish country life and swirling political unrest, unforgettable characters, heart-stopping romance, strong faith thread that overcomes denominational barrier, and gripping plot all make this book a worthy read and one of my favorites this year. Everard is a classic Laura Frantz hero - gruff but tender, loyal to the core, a fierce warrior and an innovative leader. Blythe is an educated intellectual, daughter of a duke, and compassionate. Their meeting is under distressing circumstances but their blossoming relationship is fun and witty and shows a side of them that others rarely see. I know the author doesn’t usually write sequels but I would love to see books that follow Everard’s younger brothers. If you enjoy historical romance that will transport you to a different time and place with action and depth, you will absolutely adore this book. I received the book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

I am sure the intensive research required by a novel of this quality was pure pleasure for author Laura Frantz as she visited France and Scotland, including Wedderburn Castle, the home of her Hume ancestors. The Rose and the Thistle includes a great deal of Hume history combined with Frantz's flair for creating a wonderful historical romance. The story is set in the time leading up to and including the Jacobite uprising of 1715, a time when families were sometimes split by their loyalties. Lady Blythe Hedley's Jacobite father works to protect her from the repercussions of his political leanings, imposing on an old family connection with the Hume family, much to the consternation of the new laird, the Earl of Wedderburn. Readers will be intrigued by the power, responsibility, and function of the hierarchy of nobility's role in this story. They will be captivated by the grandeur of the castles and landscapes, and they will be charmed by many of the residents of Wedderburn Castle. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of The Rose and the Thistle from Revell via LibraryThing without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

Fantastic! The Rose and the Thistle is absolutely a joy to read and I loved every minute of this story. Laura Frantz is an extremely talented author, and one of my very favorite must-read authors. This sweet and captivating historical fiction takes place in Scotland. I loved the setting, I loved the characters, and the Scottish expressions. Lady Blythe Hedley, and Everard Hume, the new Lord Wedderburn get off to a rather rocky start. She can't understand half of what he says, but she understood this "Milady-yer as welcome as water in a holed ship." There is much political and religious upheaval in Scotland, England, and Ireland at this time, and Lady Blythe, a Catholic, is delivered in the dead of night with her lady's maid to a Protestant castle right after Everard's father passed away. No Catholic estate was a safe refuge at this time, and Everard didn't want it known that she was there either, so she in ensconced in the tower for the time being. Everard's father had invited Lady Blythe, and his parents who had at one time been Catholic, were Lady Blythe's godparents. But sheltering her is the last thing Lord Wedderburn wants or needs. The pacing of this story and the ongoing tensions were pitch perfect. I loved the slow burn romance. My favorite romantic line is "You are still my English rose, while I remain your Scottish thistle." You must read the note at the end and learn more about how this beautiful work of historical fiction is tied to the author's ancestors I highly recommend The Rose and the Thistle, I loved every minute of it. Thank you to the author, publisher and net galley for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.

What a captivating, and interesting read! From beginning to end, I was immersed in this read, but also learning of things I never knew. Can you imagine being in the midst of grieving and having a young woman arrive for sanctuary at your door, her father sent her for refuge, she is your late father's goddaughter! There are so many interesting facts here, and it sure was hard to be a Catholic at this point in time in the United Kingdom. Be sure to read the authors notes at the end of this read, and we see how personal this page turner is to her. This is a story of sweet romance, but add in the turmoil happening at this time, you will not know until the end whom will survive! I received this book through the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.

4 Stars!! Well written story with tons of suspense, mystery, surprising twists, romance, love, war, happiness, peace, intrigue & an HEA ending. The book is well written & I liked the main characters, Everard & Blythe. I would’ve liked more backstory on Everard. The secondary characters were lovable too! I love fictional books with lots of factual history in it. I feel like I’m learning but I’m enjoying it! *I received this at no charge & I voluntarily left this review.*