Bride of the Lion
Known as the Lion of Normandy, Robert de Langley is thought to be dead-- until he returns to Belavoir to reclaim his home that was stolen by Lord William Montagne.  Lord Montagne betrayed him, taking his lands and stealing his castles then celebrating when he heard that Robert was dead.  Now Robert intends to regain everything he has lost and make Lord Montagne pay.  It is the turbulent time of King Stephen's reign-- a violent era where the spoils go to the strongest leader, the most cunning warrior.  Robert of Belavoir is that man.  With her father and brother Brian away, Lady Jocelyn Montagne is left to watch out for her older sister Adelise.  When Robert and his men over run Belavoir, Jocelyn and Adelise become hostages of a man seeking revenge.  Jocelyn realizes it is Robert's right to reclaim his home and as she gets to know him she discovers that he is a fair man.   He will not harm either of the women, but he must convince their father he will in order to have his land returned to him.  Jocelyn knows her father cares more about Adelise than her-- she is the child of a woman her father didn't love and only the half sister of Adelise and Brian.  Before Robert can convince Lord Montagne of his intentions, King Stephen steps in to mediate and comes up with a compromise.  Robert will marry Adelise in return for some of his lands and castles  and the promise that Lord Montagne will go unpunished. When Adelise disappears on the day of her wedding, Jocelyn becomes a substitute bride.  She has fallen in love with Robert since he came to Belavoir and she knows he will make a wonderful husband for her.   But she thinks Robert is having to settle for less than what he wanted, even though he gets even more of his land back.  Can she convince him of her love and ever hope for him to return it?  He talks of liking and respecting her and he certainly seems to desire her, but he never mentions love.A richly woven tapestry of historical events and romance!  A magnificent tale! A passionate love story in the grandest tradition!  Elizabeth Stuart has written a marvelous book! Bride of the Lion is a high spirited adventure!   Let Elizabeth Stuart carry you away to another time where honor and love reign! Thoroughly entertaining!  An engrossing tale sure to captivate readers!Kristina Wright  --Copyright © 1994-97 Literary Times, Inc.  All rights reserved--FromLiterary Times