By Arrangement

It Was Good But...

I am an avid reader of historical romances. I started reading again after taking off a few years due to being bored by the authors, books and plot lines (they all seemed the same). I found some new authors this year - and used many of the reviews to decide who to purchase and read. I selected Madeline Hunter and 'By Arrangement' as it seemed to get very solid reviews. Although I can say the novel was nice, I really am left with a feeling at the end that it was a good book and read but, NOTHING fabulous. Many of the earlier reviews gushed about how great this novel was but, I rate it so-so. I never really connected with the two characters. David - although constantly described as tall, quiet and a handsome simple merchant man - left me a little cold as he was so calculating in all he did. Clearly, from the start, judging by his intelligence, position in the court with the king and his business -he had more going on than meets the eye. Christiana was constantly described as a fine beauty and quite an eye catching girl in the kings court. She seemed to be a smart gal but, never put enough details together. In one moment she seemed to have the courage of 10 soliders to face something and then a moment later she seemed a little weak willed. There were points in the story where their relationship did seem to finally mesh and connect (emotionally and sexually) but, other times I felt off with them. The plot line with the work David was doing for the king and others was a bit interesting (there were so many things going on that I can't even remember each one exactly) but, I guess I just never got overwhelmed with the characters, story or plot line. When I was finished I felt the book was ok. I would still recommend buying this book and reading it as it clearly appeals to many readers. I will buy another novel from this author to see how she develops as I feel she does have the gift of the pen and knows how to work a story - I would just like to see more real emotion from two characters so, I can believe in them more. I never rooted for them and that's not good. Here's hoping for better with the next book...

The BEST Medieval I've Ever Read!

Honestly, I'm unsure of which adjective to use in describing this book. Outstanding! Fabulous! Terrific! Extraordinary! all come to mind, yet fall short of doing it justice. I was completely mesmerized by the story and the characters. David de Abyndon is truly a perfect hero and Christiana Fitzwaryn is his perfect mate. Ms. Hunter weaves a spell of mystery, angst, romance and love to medieval perfection. This book is going on my keeper shelf.

Finally! Perfection in a Book!

Everything about this book was outstanding, and that doesn't happen often. A great, great plot, intrigue and romance throughout. David was the perfect hero. He was intelligent, compassionate, handsome, wealthy, and yes, devious when need be. He's one of those characters you never forget. Christiana was lovely, and though she was a little young for David, I thought they were well-matched. From the beginning, when Christiana told David that she'd 'been' with another man and he didn't even blink, I knew I'd like this guy. Most men in that era would have thought only of how something like that would affect their own views.

Could not put it down!!!!

This was an awesome novel! It normally takes me a week or two to read a book. I read this one in two days! This was so beautifully written. The characters were well developed, and the plot quite intriguing.

A New Star Has Come To Life

No one has ever beaten Danielle Steels books. But I think I have found Ms. Hunter's books can give Danielle Steel a run for her money. I am eagerly waiting for Ms. Hunters next book. I stumbled on Ms. Hunters book and name by accident. She needs to get her name out there and write more books.

A Fine Medieval Romance

Do you like historical romances that actually use history to enrich the story? Do you like them to have a real feel for the time and the place? Do you like characters whose attitudes and behavior are appropriate for the era portrayed? I know I do, and that's one reason I like BY ARRANGEMENT. But first and foremost, I love this book because it contains a wonderful romance. Christiana Fitzwaryn, daughter of a baron, is informed by her guardian, King Edward III, that she is to marry the merchant, David de Abyndon. Christiana is appalled, both because she will be marrying beneath her and because she believes she is in love with a knight of the king's court. She goes to her betrothed to ask him to end the arrangement. David refuses and proceeds to show Christiana that she knows nothing about love or desire. One of the best things about the book is watching Christiana gradually change from a foolish girl to a mature woman. But the best thing about the book is David. He is a most unusual hero for a medieval romance. A merchant, he is also the confident of the king and a wise counselor. He is astute, intelligent, and, yes, devious. He has his own agenda. Full disclosure requires me to admit that Madeline Hunter is a friend of mine, but I believe I would have given this book five stars whoever the author was. This is a fine historical romance, with a strong plot, a fine romance and a great hero and heroine.

Exciting medieval romance

She was used to being treated quite kindly by her guardian King Edward and his spouse Queen Philippa, and the rest of the court. However, eighteen-year old Christiana Fitzwaryn is stunned to learn that the monarch has arranged for her to marry a common merchant David de Abyndon. Christiana needs to see her so-called betrothed because she does not want to marry an older person as another lady of the court has informed her he is. However, David turns out to be a young, virile man.

Since Christiana believes she loves Stephen Percy, she tries to persuade David to withdraw his offer to the king. David rejects Christiana¿s argument including the claim she is not a virgin. Unbeknownst to Christiana, David has his own agenda with King Edward. In exchange for a special trade license, David agreed to all the King¿s terms. Edward needs cash to finance his upcoming war against France. To disguise the source, Edward insisted David marry so that everyone accepts the money as a bridal fee. Though both have personal reasons to say no, Christiana and David fall in love, but will their class distinctions destroy any chance for a lasting relationship?

BY ARRANEGMENT is an interesting medieval romance that will thrill sub-genre purists with its taste and feel of authenticity that makes the reign of Edward seem vividly real. The story line is exciting and filled with surprises that freshen up the tale. The lead characters are a warm dueling pair while the secondary cast augments the plot with depth. If this debut is an indicator of Madeline Hunter¿s story telling abilities, historical romance fans are fortunate to have a new star to brighten and freshen up their reading material.

Harriet Klausner

No text was provided for this review.

No text was provided for this review.

No text was provided for this review.

No text was provided for this review.

No text was provided for this review.

No text was provided for this review.

No text was provided for this review.

No text was provided for this review.

No text was provided for this review.

No text was provided for this review.

No text was provided for this review.

No text was provided for this review.

No text was provided for this review.