The Rose and the Thistle

About the Book The Rose and the Thistle

In 1715, Lady Blythe Hedley’s father is declared an enemy of the British crown because of his Jacobite sympathies, forcing her to flee her home in northern England. Secreted to the tower of Wedderburn Castle in Scotland, Lady Blythe awaits who will ultimately be crowned king. But in a house with seven sons and numerous servants, her presence soon becomes known.

No sooner has Everard Hume lost his father, Lord Wedderburn, than Lady Hedley arrives with the clothes on her back and her mistress in tow. He has his own problems–a volatile brother with dangerous political leanings, an estate to manage, and a very young brother in need of comfort and direction in the wake of losing his father. It would be best for everyone if he could send this misfit heiress on her way as soon as possible.

Drawn into a whirlwind of intrigue, shifting alliances, and ambitions, Lady Blythe must be careful whom she trusts. Her fortune, her future, and her very life are at stake. Those who appear to be adversaries may turn out to be allies–and those who pretend friendship may be enemies.

My Thoughts on The Rose and the Thistle

The Rose and The Thistle takes place in the early 1700’s. This is not normally a time period I read about but I couldn’t put this one down.  The characters instantly drew me in and then refused to let me go!

Lady Blythe is Catholic.  She and her family have never hidden that fact.  But now it could get them killed.  But she refuses to deny who she is or what she believes.  Then everything changes.  Her father sends her away and she has no choice in the matter.  And worse yet she doesn’t know if he’s alive or dead. 

What can she do?  She’s only a woman.  A pawn.  Her life is decided for her.  And it has been decided that she should marry. 

But what if she doesn’t want to marry the man selected for her? 

Everard inherits his father’s estate.  And then he seems to inherit Blythe through an agreement their fathers made.  He didn’t count on this.  Can he keep Blythe hidden so that no one knows she’s there?  And more importantly, can he keep her safe?

Watching the interactions of the two was comical and yet also so sweet.  I loved the dynamic between them as the novel grew and evolved.  Their relationship changes and the country around them changes too. 

You’re going to love this one.  It’s amazingly written.  The characters are riveting.  The plot is something out of a history book but also fully fiction and made me want to read forever.  Sadly it ended a little too quickly.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.