Book cover of Defy Not the Heart

Book description

The first book in the Shefford series from #1 New York Times bestselling author of historical romance, Johanna Lindsey. 

Reina seethes with rage over her fate: taken captive by the knight Ranulf -- a golden giant of a man -- who has pledged to deliver her to the nuptial bed…

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Why read it?

1 author picked Defy Not the Heart as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

I’ve enjoyed every Johanna Lindsey book I’ve read, so it’s unsurprising this made my list!

This novel is set in 1192, and I loved that Reina is a very strong heroine in an age where women were generally downtrodden and devoid of legal rights. Her father was forward-thinking as he’s ensured she can choose her own husband, and he’s left capable Reina in charge to defend his people and his keep, which she is serious about defending.

The hero, Ranulf, is quite an ill-mannered boor, but I loved how he changed for his sassy, strong, and independent heroine. It was…

From Alyssa's list on medieval romance books.

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