"A fine medieval tale!"

Ann Lawrence's Virtual series is one of the best around. This is the first of her medieval romances that I've read and now I'm well and truly hooked!

This is the story of Emma, a weaver's daughter and Baron Gilles d'Argent. Gilles has taken over the duties as Baron of Hawkwatch at his father's death. He'd much rather be fighting for King Richard. Emma's uncle Simon brings her before Gilles for breaking her betrothal and giving her virginity to another man. Emma refuses to name the man, which incenses her uncle. She tells Gilles that if there is a child she will pay her sixpence fine.

Two years later Gilles and his men are in the forest hunting when they hear the sound of someone in distress. They run toward the noise and find Emma trying to stave off a pack of wild dogs. Emma falls and hits her head. When Gilles opens her cloak, he sees the most enchanting child with a head full of curls. He brings Emma and her child back to his keep and has her wounds taken care of. As soon as Emma is able she goes back to the village but as a thank you she weaves a beautiful belt for Gilles. Gilles is so entranced, he tells his head weaver, Sarah, to have Emma weave for his keep.

Emma becomes Gilles' leman for the sake of her child, Angelique but it's not long before she admits that this is not the only reason. Will Gilles ever love her for herself even though she's not a lady with coin and lands?

This was the most entertaining book and I found myself not able to put it down as I became more and more engrossed in the story line. Now that I know how enjoyable Ann Lawrence's medieval books are I'm certainly glad the rest of them are in my TBR pile!

Reviewed by Kathy Boswell
Posted June 4, 2003

Read an Interview with Ann

Original Issue December 1999

Summary

LORD OF THE MANOR

He had but to raise a brow and all acceded to his wishes; Gilles d'Argent alone ruled Hawkwatch Castle. The formidable baron considered love to be a jongleur's game until he met the beguiling Emma. With hair spun of gold and eyes filled with intelligence, she bound him to her. And the powerful knight sought what could not be demanded, but must be given freely: her love.

LADY OF HIS HEART

Her innocence stolen away in the blush of youth, Emma Aethelwin no longer believed in love. Reconciled to her life as a penniless weaver, she little expected to snare the attention of Gilles d'Argent. At first Emma denied the tenderness of the warrior's words and the passion he stirred within her. But as desire wove a tangible web around them, the resulting pattern told a tale of love, and she dared to dream that she could be the lady of his heart as he was the master of hers.