"Medieval romance with a twist"

In 1177 on the English Wales border, Aidan de Brice and Gwynne ap Moran marry. However, before they consummate their union, warriors with blue paint on their visage arrive. They abduct Gwynne leaving a stunned Aidan to suffer nightmares over the years wondering the fate of his beloved.

Twelve years later Aidan lays a trap to capture the Dark Legend, a clear threat to English control of Wales. When he faces the myth he sees a real person, but the face leaves him in shock because the Dark Legend is his beloved Gwynne whom he is seeing for the first time since the kidnapping. They still feel the lingering attraction of their once all consuming love, but Gwynne leads the Welsh rebels and the loyal Englishman Aidan wants to end the rebellion.

THE MAIDEN WARRIOR is an exciting medieval romance starring two star-crossed loves whose first chance together was disrupted making a second chance almost impossible. Gwynne is a wonderful Joan of Arc-like heroine whose conflict between her heart and her responsibility tears at her soul and hooks the reader to care what happens to her. The audience will also reach out to Aidan, also struggling with divergent loyalties. Though the ending seems a bit simplistic, fans will cherish this strong tale that provides insight into dangerous times through the respective eyes of the strong lead characters. With novels like this one Mary Reed McCall will not remain a secret to all the historical romance readers much longer.

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted May 21, 2002

Summary

The Captive BrideThe day she was wedded to the bold English knight Aidan de Brice young Gwynne was taken captive by the Welsh bandits who'd claimed her since her birth. Years have passed, and she barely recognizes the breathtaking warrior before her who once won her heart -- but her senses recall what her memory cannot. Still, any lingering thoughts of love must be dispelled, for the proud, brave lady's loyalties now lie elsewhere.Aidan is shocked to discover that the infamous "Dark Legend" -- the elusive rebel leader he is honor bound to defeat -- is not only a beautiful woman...but also his stolen bride! Now that he has taken her prisoner, Aidan knows his true duty is to his heart. Defying his king, Aidan must use all his power to keep fair Gwynne from harm...and rekindle her lost memories of a soul- stirring love more mighty than any kingdom or crown.