416 pages
Laura Frantz
Revell, 2023
Back Cover Description:
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.
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Thanks to Revell for sending me a copy to review as part of the Revell Reads blogger program. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The newest release by historical romance author Laura Frantz, The Rose and the Thistle checked all my boxes. It is a beautifully told story of an unlikely romance, set against the backdrop of 1715 Scotland and filled with historical details that really paint a picture of what is happening around the characters, without getting in the way of the story.
There are several themes going on in this story. Family ties and the question of how far duty to your family extends played out for both Blythe and Everard. The author explores issues of class and what it means to use a position of nobility responsibly, how the sins or blessings of parents can impact children, and how people of different religious or political leanings can live side by side respectfully. I was really struck by how volatile the political climate was, not just because monarchs were battling for the throne, but because of the tension between Protestants and Catholics. The resolution that Blythe and Everard come to on this I thought was really beautiful.
My favorite thing about this book is the cast of colorful characters. I especially loved Everard’s youngest brother, Orin, and the special bond he formed with Blythe. Throughout the book, Blythe and Everard are supported by a great many friends and employees, and I enjoyed the different types of relationships and interactions.
I’m a long-time fan of Laura Frantz and every time she releases a book I’m afraid that this will be the one that ends it for me. I’m happy to say that The Rose and the Thistle lived up to all my expectations, including having a gorgeous cover! I gave this one five stars in my reading trackers, and will definitely pass it on to friends and family.
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