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Border #8
The Guardian's Favor
Following his heart may cause a war.
Is a second chance at love worth the risk?
The Guardian
Aidan de Sowlis finds purpose in guarding his family and his clan. He tells himself such a life is enough for him but cannot dismiss the memory of the woman he wished to wed. Lady Clarissa now belongs to another man—or so he thinks. When the Scottish warden sends Aidan to England to negotiate with the lady's father, a final effort to secure the peace along the border, he's shocked to see her. She stops him before he can leave with a simple word: "help."
The Favor
Lady Clarissa would rather become a nun than face another arranged marriage—the fate her cruel father will undoubtedly foist on her now that her elderly husband has secured an annulment. She knows Aidan de Sowlis, the man she left, is the last person she should ask for help, yet he's the only one she trusts. Aidan and Clarissa soon discover their feelings for each other are as strong as ever, but her father would never approve, and his cooperation is crucial for securing peace on the border. Do they dare risk it for love?
Is a second chance at love worth the risk?
The Guardian
Aidan de Sowlis finds purpose in guarding his family and his clan. He tells himself such a life is enough for him but cannot dismiss the memory of the woman he wished to wed. Lady Clarissa now belongs to another man—or so he thinks. When the Scottish warden sends Aidan to England to negotiate with the lady's father, a final effort to secure the peace along the border, he's shocked to see her. She stops him before he can leave with a simple word: "help."
The Favor
Lady Clarissa would rather become a nun than face another arranged marriage—the fate her cruel father will undoubtedly foist on her now that her elderly husband has secured an annulment. She knows Aidan de Sowlis, the man she left, is the last person she should ask for help, yet he's the only one she trusts. Aidan and Clarissa soon discover their feelings for each other are as strong as ever, but her father would never approve, and his cooperation is crucial for securing peace on the border. Do they dare risk it for love?
244 pages, ebook
First published December 4, 2018
About the author
Cecelia Mecca
72 books787 followersRomance that transports...
Cecelia Mecca is the bestselling author of steamy historical romance and also writes contemporary small town romance as Bella Michaels. Armed with a Ph.D. and lots of chai, she's known for giving readers "heroines who you want to be your best friend." When these ladies meet alpha-males who try to gain control, sparks fly until the very last page. One reader says, "No one can so completely wisk you away like Cecelia."
From the 11-book Border Series, which takes readers to an admittedly romanticized time of knights and castles, and Order of the Broken Blade with its secret knightly order, to Cecelia's co-authored Scottish time travel series, Highlander's Through Time and Enchanted Falls, Cecelia loves transporting readers to another time and place. In Kingdoms of Meria, Cecelia takes readers to a place they've never been before. Her brand new series, Brotherhood of the Border, is a Border Series spin-off which takes place thirty years later.
Our Highlander-loving author can be found in Northeast, Pennsylvania thinking up new ways to tame both medieval and contemporary bad boys. She is firmly House Stark and Gryffindor and loves all things fantasy, especially when tinged with a bit of steamy romance.
FREE prequels:
Jump into her worlds with a free prequel: http://www.ceceliamecca.com/insider
Website https://buff.ly/2ydq7dS
Amazon: https://buff.ly/2M0g6FZ
TikTock: https://www.tiktok.com/@ceceliamecca
Reader Group: https://buff.ly/2OuFXLu
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Pinterest: https://buff.ly/2P6pPNh
Cecelia Mecca is the bestselling author of steamy historical romance and also writes contemporary small town romance as Bella Michaels. Armed with a Ph.D. and lots of chai, she's known for giving readers "heroines who you want to be your best friend." When these ladies meet alpha-males who try to gain control, sparks fly until the very last page. One reader says, "No one can so completely wisk you away like Cecelia."
From the 11-book Border Series, which takes readers to an admittedly romanticized time of knights and castles, and Order of the Broken Blade with its secret knightly order, to Cecelia's co-authored Scottish time travel series, Highlander's Through Time and Enchanted Falls, Cecelia loves transporting readers to another time and place. In Kingdoms of Meria, Cecelia takes readers to a place they've never been before. Her brand new series, Brotherhood of the Border, is a Border Series spin-off which takes place thirty years later.
Our Highlander-loving author can be found in Northeast, Pennsylvania thinking up new ways to tame both medieval and contemporary bad boys. She is firmly House Stark and Gryffindor and loves all things fantasy, especially when tinged with a bit of steamy romance.
FREE prequels:
Jump into her worlds with a free prequel: http://www.ceceliamecca.com/insider
Website https://buff.ly/2ydq7dS
Amazon: https://buff.ly/2M0g6FZ
TikTock: https://www.tiktok.com/@ceceliamecca
Reader Group: https://buff.ly/2OuFXLu
Instagram: https://buff.ly/2x2yjwX
Pinterest: https://buff.ly/2P6pPNh
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
November 30, 2018
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
💋💋
Cecilia does it again ...
brilliant characters, setting, hero and heroine, this series is one of the best .
I can’t remember when I’ve had so much anxiety over a couple in a book , but Aiden and Clarissa had me feeling sick at times with their on off relationship.
Bless them they get put through the ringer with emotion and turmoil.
The Border series has some great stories and secondary characters, Lawerence is one to watch out for ,if your a fan of paranormal follow the Bloodwite series by Cecelia and you’ll get his story.
I can’t say enough good things about this book , so beautifully written and it will get your heart pounding.
Five stars for definite and another five because I love
Ms Mecca X
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
💋💋
Cecilia does it again ...
brilliant characters, setting, hero and heroine, this series is one of the best .
I can’t remember when I’ve had so much anxiety over a couple in a book , but Aiden and Clarissa had me feeling sick at times with their on off relationship.
Bless them they get put through the ringer with emotion and turmoil.
The Border series has some great stories and secondary characters, Lawerence is one to watch out for ,if your a fan of paranormal follow the Bloodwite series by Cecelia and you’ll get his story.
I can’t say enough good things about this book , so beautifully written and it will get your heart pounding.
Five stars for definite and another five because I love
Ms Mecca X
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
December 7, 2018
Just when I think a book by Cecilia Mecca cannot get any better, she writes an amazing new story and I am reminded why I love her writing so much!! I am always engaged from the first page and am kept up reading late into the night! Set in the time of peace between the borders of Scotland and England, the truce is very fragile. Immediately I loved Aidan (how can you not when he is a braw warrior who has a good heart!) Aidan is sent to negotiate with the English warden to secure the peace and he sees Clarissa, the woman he had previously wanted to wed. Unfortunately her father had made her marry another and she was lost to him.
My heart ached for Clarissa. He father was a cruel man and her husband had been cut from the same cloth, but he had their marriage annulled due to her not producing a heir. What? Good riddance, but the problem was her father just wanted to get rid of her to another man.
When she sees Aidan meeting with her father, she feels a spark of hope that he will help her escape!!
The characters are almost three dimensional in that you can feel their emotions coming through the pages. Filled with intrigue, angst and a love that will transcend, I could only feel my heart melt with this wonderful story, as I turned the last page. Do not miss this book in the Border Series and although it can be read as a standalone, trust me, you want to read them all!!!
My heart ached for Clarissa. He father was a cruel man and her husband had been cut from the same cloth, but he had their marriage annulled due to her not producing a heir. What? Good riddance, but the problem was her father just wanted to get rid of her to another man.
When she sees Aidan meeting with her father, she feels a spark of hope that he will help her escape!!
The characters are almost three dimensional in that you can feel their emotions coming through the pages. Filled with intrigue, angst and a love that will transcend, I could only feel my heart melt with this wonderful story, as I turned the last page. Do not miss this book in the Border Series and although it can be read as a standalone, trust me, you want to read them all!!!
December 6, 2018
Amazing story! Loved Aidan and Clarissa!
Just how much is a man expected to sacrifice for peace? This is the dilemma Aidan is in when he rescues the only woman he's ever loved, who was kept from him by her ruthless father. Claiming her now would certainly start a war that would threaten his entire family, so the ever-honorable Aidan tries to do the right thing, but a love like theirs won't be stopped!
This was an edge-of-your-seat story, filled with unexpected twists and turns and the slow-building sexual tension that this author is known for. The vibrantly-described setting instantly transports the reader back to the ancient Scots/English border, and the attention to detail is superb. This romance will have you cheering by the time you get to the well-deserved HEA. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Just how much is a man expected to sacrifice for peace? This is the dilemma Aidan is in when he rescues the only woman he's ever loved, who was kept from him by her ruthless father. Claiming her now would certainly start a war that would threaten his entire family, so the ever-honorable Aidan tries to do the right thing, but a love like theirs won't be stopped!
This was an edge-of-your-seat story, filled with unexpected twists and turns and the slow-building sexual tension that this author is known for. The vibrantly-described setting instantly transports the reader back to the ancient Scots/English border, and the attention to detail is superb. This romance will have you cheering by the time you get to the well-deserved HEA. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
December 6, 2018
Clarissa was forced to marry then a few later has return home because her husband has cast her off. Now her plan is to escape and go to the Dunburg Abbey, but she needs help. Aidan has been requested to Theffield, not a place he wished to return. Years earlier he had been there that when he meant Clarissa. Now Clarissa asked for a favor and the next chapter in the story of Aidan and Clarissa begins. I love Cecelia writing it has such a rich quality to it. It flows and moves in such a pleasant way. The drama is always moving and will keep you on the edge of your seat. Her characters are so real. This book was excellent and one I highly recommend. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
December 5, 2018
Lady Clarissa was an only child, very sheltered, and blamed for her mother's death and unloved by her father. But she did get to meet Aiden twice in her life. Aiden knew from the time they visited at the tournament that he was in love with the English lass whose powerful father seemed only interested in bringing war and strife to the border lands. She leaves the tournament without a goodbye and marries another. But this is the thrilling story of Aiden coming to her father's castle to make demands that can work for peace and riding off with Clarissa, which will surely cause war. That's just the start of the tale by this great author!
December 7, 2018
I just love the Border Series. In this installment we get to read Aidan's story. Aidan is no rouge, bad boy like Reid (the Hero from last Border book), but he is still swoon worthy! He is everything you want in a man - and at the top of the list is honorable. Poor Lady Clarissa totally deserves a man like Aidan in her life, especially after all of the men she has had to suffer through. You will be rooting for them from the start. Although this is considered a stand-alone, it is really best to read them in order to avoid spoilers and to watch the tension between the border grow. I can't wait to find out what happens next!
December 3, 2018
Could you give up your love for the safety of your clan? Aidan is sent to negotiate with the English warden so the annual Day of Truce between the Scottish and English borderers will continue. But when the warden's daughter Clarissa, Aidan's former love, asks for his help, negotiations are jeopordized.
Very good read with lots of suspense and intrigue.
I received an arc of this book.
Very good read with lots of suspense and intrigue.
I received an arc of this book.
December 1, 2018
Well written.
I think you need to read the series in order as there are references and scenes with previous characters and couples. I read them some time ago so I had forgotten their stories.
Also there is a main enemy storyline thread that runs through the series so although the couple in each book have a HEA that enemy storyline is not finished.
I did get a bit frustrated with the heroine.
The situation is dangerous if she trusts him and agrees to be together so although I could understand her refusal then later her hesitancy I did wish she'd just say yes at a certain point.
There are no intimate details of anyone other than the Hero and heroine.
No details of the Hero's relationship history but we know the heroine was married to an older man, brood mare status, a few details from the heroines memory.
No cheating.
The Hero has been in love with the heroine for years and went they meet again he would love a second chance but is struggling to trust due to their history.
ARC.
I think you need to read the series in order as there are references and scenes with previous characters and couples. I read them some time ago so I had forgotten their stories.
Also there is a main enemy storyline thread that runs through the series so although the couple in each book have a HEA that enemy storyline is not finished.
I did get a bit frustrated with the heroine.
The situation is dangerous if she trusts him and agrees to be together so although I could understand her refusal then later her hesitancy I did wish she'd just say yes at a certain point.
There are no intimate details of anyone other than the Hero and heroine.
No details of the Hero's relationship history but we know the heroine was married to an older man, brood mare status, a few details from the heroines memory.
No cheating.
The Hero has been in love with the heroine for years and went they meet again he would love a second chance but is struggling to trust due to their history.
ARC.
December 10, 2018
This medieval romance comes alive as the author creates a vividly rich story with her words. The story has strong and likeable, detailed plot and nuance. I enjoyed this book.
December 14, 2018
Book nine in the Border series and every book is better than the one before, I am looking forward to reading the next book. This is a series I would recommend. I received a copy of this book and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
November 21, 2018
I found this a good book. Aidan de Sowlis is a great character and is so kind and thoughtful to Lady Clarissa in her time of need. She hasn't felt valued her entire life by her father and her sorry of an excuse of her previous husband but under the care of Clan Scott, Clan Waryn and even Clan Kerr she begins to overthrow the years of neglect.
November 25, 2018
I would like to thank the author for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Mounting tensions in the English Scottish border are the backdrop to this second chance love story.
Aidan wasn't expecting to see Clarissa again after she broke his heart and then married another. But fate intervenes when he has to approach her father in order to avoid war.
Well written with an entertaining plot. I can't wait to read the next instalment.
Mounting tensions in the English Scottish border are the backdrop to this second chance love story.
Aidan wasn't expecting to see Clarissa again after she broke his heart and then married another. But fate intervenes when he has to approach her father in order to avoid war.
Well written with an entertaining plot. I can't wait to read the next instalment.
December 7, 2018
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
💋💋
Cecilia does it again ...
brilliant characters, setting, hero and heroine, this series is one of the best .
I can’t remember when I’ve had so much anxiety over a couple in a book , but Aiden and Clarissa had me feeling sick at times with their on off relationship.
Bless them they get put through the ringer with emotion and turmoil.
The Border series has some great stories and secondary characters, Lawerence is one to watch out for ,if your a fan of paranormal follow the Bloodwite series by Cecelia and you’ll get his story.
I can’t say enough good things about this book , so beautifully written and it will get your heart pounding.
Five stars for definite and another five because I love
Ms Mecca X
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
💋💋
Cecilia does it again ...
brilliant characters, setting, hero and heroine, this series is one of the best .
I can’t remember when I’ve had so much anxiety over a couple in a book , but Aiden and Clarissa had me feeling sick at times with their on off relationship.
Bless them they get put through the ringer with emotion and turmoil.
The Border series has some great stories and secondary characters, Lawerence is one to watch out for ,if your a fan of paranormal follow the Bloodwite series by Cecelia and you’ll get his story.
I can’t say enough good things about this book , so beautifully written and it will get your heart pounding.
Five stars for definite and another five because I love
Ms Mecca X
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
November 21, 2018
Another great book in the border series by Cecilia Mecca. This a story about second and even third chances. Aiden is a good man who deserves another chance at a love that he thought was unattainable. Clarissa is a good woman but has been treated horribly by her father and husband. It was great to see them reconnect and once again face obstacles but this time be able to overcome them.
November 18, 2018
The Gaurdian's Favor
By Cecelia Mecca
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Aiden de Sowils has found a purpose by guiding his family and helping his brother guide his clan. He has tried to convince himself that this is enough and he doesn't need anymore however he can't get the memory of the woman he wished to wed out of his head. Lady Clarissa belongs to another man now though - or so Aiden thinks. When the Scottish warden sends Aiden to England to negotiate with the lady's father it's not something he really wants to do however he will go in a final effort to secure the peace along the border. As he's leaving he sees a sight he never expected to see. It's Lady Clarissa herself. She stops him with one single word "help".
Lady Clarissa has decided that she would rather become a nun then face another arranged marriage which is the fate that she will now face if her father has his way as her elderly husband has now secured an annulment. She knows that Aiden de Sowils, the man she left one night, is the last person she should ask for help, yet he's the only one she trusts.
Aiden and Clarrisa soon discover that their feelings are still as strong as ever for eachother, but she knows her father would never approve, and his cooperation is crucial for securing peace along the border. Dare they risk all for love or will they put their love aside and do what they think is best in the name of peace?
Cecilia Mecca is absolutely brilliant. This is a love story made in heaven. Within the first few pages I was hooked and couldn't put the book down. I felt so bad for Clarrisa and what she has had to survive in life. Aiden is truly the Gaurdian as he protects anything he calls his own. These two characters had such chemistry that it lept from the pages and swirled around me into what looked like a movie that played out in my head. I can't wait to see what Ms. Mecca has planned for us next.
By Cecelia Mecca
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Aiden de Sowils has found a purpose by guiding his family and helping his brother guide his clan. He has tried to convince himself that this is enough and he doesn't need anymore however he can't get the memory of the woman he wished to wed out of his head. Lady Clarissa belongs to another man now though - or so Aiden thinks. When the Scottish warden sends Aiden to England to negotiate with the lady's father it's not something he really wants to do however he will go in a final effort to secure the peace along the border. As he's leaving he sees a sight he never expected to see. It's Lady Clarissa herself. She stops him with one single word "help".
Lady Clarissa has decided that she would rather become a nun then face another arranged marriage which is the fate that she will now face if her father has his way as her elderly husband has now secured an annulment. She knows that Aiden de Sowils, the man she left one night, is the last person she should ask for help, yet he's the only one she trusts.
Aiden and Clarrisa soon discover that their feelings are still as strong as ever for eachother, but she knows her father would never approve, and his cooperation is crucial for securing peace along the border. Dare they risk all for love or will they put their love aside and do what they think is best in the name of peace?
Cecilia Mecca is absolutely brilliant. This is a love story made in heaven. Within the first few pages I was hooked and couldn't put the book down. I felt so bad for Clarrisa and what she has had to survive in life. Aiden is truly the Gaurdian as he protects anything he calls his own. These two characters had such chemistry that it lept from the pages and swirled around me into what looked like a movie that played out in my head. I can't wait to see what Ms. Mecca has planned for us next.
December 10, 2018
The Guardian's Favor is the eighth book in the Border series by Cecelia Mecca. You don't need to have read the previous books in order to enjoy this one. Fortunately, I have read the other books and the bonus you do get from reading the others first is that it's like having an update on your favourite characters from the previous books.
As with the previous books, this one was an exciting tale set at the border of Scotland and England. The peace treaty between the two countries is teetering in the balance and Aidan de Sowlis is sent by the Scottish warden to speak to the one person that can help keep the peace. That person is the father of Lady Clarissa, a woman that in his past broke his heart. He hopes to never see her again, but instead inadvertently helps her run away from her home and being forced into a marriage she doesn't want.
Is there any way to keep it secret that he played a part in her escape, there has to be or any chance of keeping the peace between the countries will be no more. Aiden could send Clarissa on her way, but it's impossible when old feelings come to the surface and Aiden realises that he still loves her. She feels the same way too, but can she make him understand why she had to break his heart before? Can they have any future when it will cause her father to make sure that Scotland and England border clans won't see peace again!
This story had so much going on in it, from the wickedness of Clarissa's father to the suspense of a pending breakdown of the peace treaty between the borders, Then, of course, you have the will they won't they of Clarissa's relationship with Aiden. The obstacles in front of them seem insurmountable, but surely they aren't?
I enjoyed this book as much as each and every one in the series and am happy to recommend it.
As with the previous books, this one was an exciting tale set at the border of Scotland and England. The peace treaty between the two countries is teetering in the balance and Aidan de Sowlis is sent by the Scottish warden to speak to the one person that can help keep the peace. That person is the father of Lady Clarissa, a woman that in his past broke his heart. He hopes to never see her again, but instead inadvertently helps her run away from her home and being forced into a marriage she doesn't want.
Is there any way to keep it secret that he played a part in her escape, there has to be or any chance of keeping the peace between the countries will be no more. Aiden could send Clarissa on her way, but it's impossible when old feelings come to the surface and Aiden realises that he still loves her. She feels the same way too, but can she make him understand why she had to break his heart before? Can they have any future when it will cause her father to make sure that Scotland and England border clans won't see peace again!
This story had so much going on in it, from the wickedness of Clarissa's father to the suspense of a pending breakdown of the peace treaty between the borders, Then, of course, you have the will they won't they of Clarissa's relationship with Aiden. The obstacles in front of them seem insurmountable, but surely they aren't?
I enjoyed this book as much as each and every one in the series and am happy to recommend it.
November 24, 2018
Oh, how I love this series! My other books sit collecting dust until I read this author's new release. And this one does not disappoint, it's Aiden's story.
Graeme's brother Aiden (2nd in line to chief) is delivering a missive to the father of the one woman who still holds his heart. Left waiting for her years ago, he never knows the reason for her absence other than hearing later that she has gone to marry another. His heart is wounded, but it still aches for her so when leaving her father's castle he's shocked to see her waiting for their departure begging for escape. Fate had been cruel to take her away but he accepted the fact that she was gone. Until this moment. So without thinking, he scoops her up to take her to safety. Was fate delivering her into his arms once again or once again dangling something in front of him that he could never have? But he doesn't think, he offers his protection, the consequences be damned.
As luck would have it, Clarissa finds an escape from her cruel father when Aiden appears at the castle. Desperate to make it to a nunnery before her father finds out her marriage to the wicked husband she married would soon be annulled, her only answer was to offer what jewelry she owned to the nuns for asylum so she could finally for once in her life be free from playing a pawn in her father's game of power. She knows she still loves Aiden but will not be the cause of a war along the border between the English and the Scots. And she would not hurt him again.
The story unfolds from here and you can read what's in store for their future in "The Guardian's Favor." A book I highly recommend, did not want to put down, and consumed my thoughts while I was away from it wishing I was present to shake some sense into Clarissa. Outstanding read, do not hesitate. I was gifted with an ARC and am offering my review in thanks.
Graeme's brother Aiden (2nd in line to chief) is delivering a missive to the father of the one woman who still holds his heart. Left waiting for her years ago, he never knows the reason for her absence other than hearing later that she has gone to marry another. His heart is wounded, but it still aches for her so when leaving her father's castle he's shocked to see her waiting for their departure begging for escape. Fate had been cruel to take her away but he accepted the fact that she was gone. Until this moment. So without thinking, he scoops her up to take her to safety. Was fate delivering her into his arms once again or once again dangling something in front of him that he could never have? But he doesn't think, he offers his protection, the consequences be damned.
As luck would have it, Clarissa finds an escape from her cruel father when Aiden appears at the castle. Desperate to make it to a nunnery before her father finds out her marriage to the wicked husband she married would soon be annulled, her only answer was to offer what jewelry she owned to the nuns for asylum so she could finally for once in her life be free from playing a pawn in her father's game of power. She knows she still loves Aiden but will not be the cause of a war along the border between the English and the Scots. And she would not hurt him again.
The story unfolds from here and you can read what's in store for their future in "The Guardian's Favor." A book I highly recommend, did not want to put down, and consumed my thoughts while I was away from it wishing I was present to shake some sense into Clarissa. Outstanding read, do not hesitate. I was gifted with an ARC and am offering my review in thanks.
November 26, 2018
I am so glad that Aidan got his story in the wonderful Border Series books. He is such a loyal, brave and compassionate character. In medieval times, women were chatel to their fathers and husbands, and had few rights. Clarissa has to abandon her budding relationship with Aidan years before because her father insisted that she marry a wealthy, older man. Her husband was as much of an ogre as her conniving father and she was desperate to escape them both. The border between Scotland and England was a dangerous place to be, especially in 1274 when black-hearted English lords were more concerned about their own wealth and power than the 30-year-old truce and peace along the border. When Clarissa appeals to Aidan to help her, she unwittingly places his clan and friends, as well as peace along the border, in peril. But Aidan, being the chivalrous knight, cannot turn his back on her plight. What develops is a very romantic, suspenseful and sexy plot as these two impossibly matched people try to find their way through all the danger and barriers to their love. Fans of Cecelia's books, like me, will want to take note of details that may show up in her future series on Vampires! This is a stand-alone novel but you will want to read all the border series books and learn about the other great characters you encounter in Guardian's Favor.
December 1, 2018
Lady Clarissa met Aidan on the day she tried to run away. In later years they met again, at a tournament. Here is where her father decided to marry her to an older, fat man who was just as cruel as her father. Aiden de Sowlis was Scottish and lived with his extended family at the castle. He was second in command and helped protect the family and the people in the village. He thought she was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen and he had not forgotten her.
There were a lot of twists to this story, her husband's insistence that they get an annulment after just two years. I loved the feeling of love and caring you could almost feel coming from the young people. Aiden swore both he and his clan would protect her. The characters were warm, humorous, and well developed. I have never been disappointed by any of the authors books. It is a little sexy, but still so good.
I received this ARC from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.
There were a lot of twists to this story, her husband's insistence that they get an annulment after just two years. I loved the feeling of love and caring you could almost feel coming from the young people. Aiden swore both he and his clan would protect her. The characters were warm, humorous, and well developed. I have never been disappointed by any of the authors books. It is a little sexy, but still so good.
I received this ARC from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.
November 28, 2018
Lady Clarissa is terrified about what her father will do when he discovers that her husband has had the marriage annulled. Her only hope is to enter a convent before he finds out.
Adian De Sowlis has been sent on a mission by his brother the Clan chief. The last person he expects to meet is a woman from his past.
This is a second chance romance that is set in a politically volatile time in the history of the boarder land between England and Scotland. Will our heroine cause a war or sacrifice everything??
This is part of a series but easily read alone.
A very enjoyable read.
Adian De Sowlis has been sent on a mission by his brother the Clan chief. The last person he expects to meet is a woman from his past.
This is a second chance romance that is set in a politically volatile time in the history of the boarder land between England and Scotland. Will our heroine cause a war or sacrifice everything??
This is part of a series but easily read alone.
A very enjoyable read.
December 6, 2018
This is a fast-paced book with entertaining characters and a well-written storyline. The historical background of the skirmishes and thefts along the borders, is clear and correct, with only a little poetic license. Aidan is such a strong, stable character who has loved and lost in his past. When Clarissa returns, his feelings change from hatred and betrayal, to forgiveness and love. I really adore this series.
Read
October 28, 2021The sequel series set thirty years after the Border Series ends is called Brotherhood of the Border. Meet the children of your Border Series favorites and start with the first book in the series, A Noble Betrayal here.
November 20, 2018
Cecelia Mecca has done it again! The Guardian's Favor is book 8 in the Border Series and what an amazing series this is. Though in a series you can read this as a standalone. Cecelia has really out done herself with her wonderful character Aidan. It never ceases to amaze me how she can write a bad boy like Reid in Highland Redemption to sweet lovable Aidan in The Guardian’s Favor and you can’t help but fall in love with both. Cecelia has a true gift for writing medieval border stories (border of Scotland and England) that I am always in awe when I read one of her books and The Guardian’s Favor is no exception. I found myself in another place and time and the present no longer existed, Cecelia is that good of a writer. I was afraid to put this book down incase I lost the feeling so I read it through the night. This story has evil, kindness, politics, misunderstandings, forgiveness, family love, acceptance, protection, running away, fears, deception, abuse, an annulment, love and so much more. You will just have to read this amazing stories to find out the rest and I highly recommend that you do!!
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
November 24, 2018
Another fabulous book in the Border Series! I always knew that Aiden was a good guy but never expected him to be this swoon-worthy. I like him almost as much as I liked Reid, the hero in the previous book. And Clarissa's story brought tears to my eyes. What she went through is heart-wrenching. The whole book is an on-the-edge-of-your-seat kind of story. And with the villain(s) still out there, I can't wait to read the next book in this series. Just don't expect everyone to survive. In war and skirmishes, there are casualties. I hate it when someone dies but it's the way of the world. Who dies? You'll have to read the book to find out. I highly suggest you read the series in order so you won't miss a thing.
November 20, 2018
I just love the Border Series. In this installment we get to read Aidan's story. Aidan is no rouge, bad boy like Reid (the Hero from last Border book), but he is still swoon worthy! He is everything you want in a man - and at the top of the list is honorable. Poor Lady Clarissa totally deserves a man like Aidan in her life, especially after all of the men she has had to suffer through. You will be rooting for them from the start. Although this is considered a stand-alone, it is really best to read them in order to avoid spoilers and to watch the tension between the border grow. I can't wait to find out what happens next!
December 6, 2018
Oh, how I love this series! My other books sit collecting dust until I read this author's new release. And this one does not disappoint, it's Aiden's story.
Graeme's brother Aiden (2nd in line to chief) is delivering a missive to the father of the one woman who still holds his heart. Left waiting for her years ago, he never knows the reason for her absence other than hearing later that she has gone to marry another. His heart is wounded, but it still aches for her so when leaving her father's castle he's shocked to see her waiting for their departure begging for escape. Fate had been cruel to take her away but he accepted the fact that she was gone. Until this moment. So without thinking, he scoops her up to take her to safety. Was fate delivering her into his arms once again or once again dangling something in front of him that he could never have? But he doesn't think, he offers his protection, the consequences be damned.
As luck would have it, Clarissa finds an escape from her cruel father when Aiden appears at the castle. Desperate to make it to a nunnery before her father finds out her marriage to the wicked husband she married would soon be annulled, her only answer was to offer what jewelry she owned to the nuns for asylum so she could finally for once in her life be free from playing a pawn in her father's game of power. She knows she still loves Aiden but will not be the cause of a war along the border between the English and the Scots. And she would not hurt him again.
The story unfolds from here and you can read what's in store for their future in "The Guardian's Favor." A book I highly recommend, did not want to put down, and consumed my thoughts while I was away from it wishing I was present to shake some sense into Clarissa. Outstanding read, do not hesitate. I was gifted with an ARC and am offering my review in thanks.
Graeme's brother Aiden (2nd in line to chief) is delivering a missive to the father of the one woman who still holds his heart. Left waiting for her years ago, he never knows the reason for her absence other than hearing later that she has gone to marry another. His heart is wounded, but it still aches for her so when leaving her father's castle he's shocked to see her waiting for their departure begging for escape. Fate had been cruel to take her away but he accepted the fact that she was gone. Until this moment. So without thinking, he scoops her up to take her to safety. Was fate delivering her into his arms once again or once again dangling something in front of him that he could never have? But he doesn't think, he offers his protection, the consequences be damned.
As luck would have it, Clarissa finds an escape from her cruel father when Aiden appears at the castle. Desperate to make it to a nunnery before her father finds out her marriage to the wicked husband she married would soon be annulled, her only answer was to offer what jewelry she owned to the nuns for asylum so she could finally for once in her life be free from playing a pawn in her father's game of power. She knows she still loves Aiden but will not be the cause of a war along the border between the English and the Scots. And she would not hurt him again.
The story unfolds from here and you can read what's in store for their future in "The Guardian's Favor." A book I highly recommend, did not want to put down, and consumed my thoughts while I was away from it wishing I was present to shake some sense into Clarissa. Outstanding read, do not hesitate. I was gifted with an ARC and am offering my review in thanks.
December 6, 2018
In the Guardian’s Favor” book 8 in Cecelia Mecca’s Border Series we are treated to Aidan de Sowlis’ story and it is a captivating and intriguing story. In his younger days Aidan had a tender for Lady Clarissa. Unfortunately her cruel English Earl of a father had other plans for her and married her off to an elderly Earl. A fated meeting at her father’s castle and her husband’s actions have brought them back into each others orbit as the lady seeks de Sowlis’ help. Ms. Mecca has created another great story filled with period details as well as characters that are well developed, engaging and have wonderful chemistry. We also have the opportunity to spend time with characters from her past books in the series as all involved attempt to keep a border war at bay while also protecting Clarissa from her father. Both Clarissa and Aidan are torn between duty to his clan and their love. How the author resolves the emotional aspects of their struggles to do what is right and to find a solution to their dilemma makes for a beautifully romantic love story laced with suspense and danger. I have had the opportunity to read all the novels in this series and enjoyed each one. I highly recommend Aidan and Clarissa’s story and the entire series.
I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book from the author. It was a pleasure to give my honest opinion about the book.
I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book from the author. It was a pleasure to give my honest opinion about the book.
December 3, 2018
This is a book recieved by the author for my review.
First and foremost, thank you Cecelia, for this opportunity to read your book.
I loved everything about this book, and although I've not read the previous in the BORDER SERIES, I truly enjoyed getting my first dunking in Aiden and Clarissa's tale.
Aiden is the kind of man a woman dreams of; strong ,loyal, protective..and when his heart is given, you know it's yours forever.
Clarissa, is a product of the times in which she lived. No say , how sad to have had her chance at true love ripped away when her father ( grrrr) sold her to her husband .
They do in this saga , get their chance , again . And despite the trouble they know will occur , they set their sights on a life together.
It won't be easy, between a power hungry father and the troubles brewing on the BORDER, in the end they will find their own bit of heaven on earth.
If you've read the previous books in this series , or like me, dive in head first(😉😊), do read this book and the others( which I plan to remedy forthwith).
Well done Cecelia , and i await your next book and the new series in high anticipation!
First and foremost, thank you Cecelia, for this opportunity to read your book.
I loved everything about this book, and although I've not read the previous in the BORDER SERIES, I truly enjoyed getting my first dunking in Aiden and Clarissa's tale.
Aiden is the kind of man a woman dreams of; strong ,loyal, protective..and when his heart is given, you know it's yours forever.
Clarissa, is a product of the times in which she lived. No say , how sad to have had her chance at true love ripped away when her father ( grrrr) sold her to her husband .
They do in this saga , get their chance , again . And despite the trouble they know will occur , they set their sights on a life together.
It won't be easy, between a power hungry father and the troubles brewing on the BORDER, in the end they will find their own bit of heaven on earth.
If you've read the previous books in this series , or like me, dive in head first(😉😊), do read this book and the others( which I plan to remedy forthwith).
Well done Cecelia , and i await your next book and the new series in high anticipation!
December 5, 2018
I’m sure I say this too much but I do love period romances. Well, good ones. There’s something to be said for the author’s ability to take us back in time and hold our attention there. From the clothing to the language to the mannerisms, we are swept into a different world and that’s where things get interesting. Well, more interesting.
Likes: As with Ms Mecca’s other stories, her leads are evenly matched for one another; often balancing each other out as often as they manage to vex each other. And I really love how strong the female characters are. More so, the female leads are often treated as an equal by their male counterpart, which would have been relatively unheard of for the time but makes for excellent storytelling. And of course, in this story, Clarissa and Aidan are a second chance at love, which makes it all the more enjoyable.
Ms. Mecca has created a rich world of engaging characters who are entertaining and lovable, often despite themselves and this series is well worth the read. “The Guardian’s Favor” is story 9 in her Border Series set in thirteenth century Northumbria along the Anglo-Scottish border.
Likes: As with Ms Mecca’s other stories, her leads are evenly matched for one another; often balancing each other out as often as they manage to vex each other. And I really love how strong the female characters are. More so, the female leads are often treated as an equal by their male counterpart, which would have been relatively unheard of for the time but makes for excellent storytelling. And of course, in this story, Clarissa and Aidan are a second chance at love, which makes it all the more enjoyable.
Ms. Mecca has created a rich world of engaging characters who are entertaining and lovable, often despite themselves and this series is well worth the read. “The Guardian’s Favor” is story 9 in her Border Series set in thirteenth century Northumbria along the Anglo-Scottish border.
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