The Crusader's Heart: A Medieval Romance (Champions of St. Euphemia, #2) (The Champions of Saint Euphemia, #2)

by Claire Delacroix

"A company of knights chosen to deliver a sealed trunk from the Templar treasury in Jerusalem to safekeeping in Paris. A group of pilgrims seeking the protection of the Templars to return home as the Saracens prepare to besiege the city. A mysterious treasure that someone will even kill to possess..."



A valiant warrior sworn to the order of the Knights Templar for life, Wulfe resents being dispatched on a quest to Paris just when the Latin Kingdoms are at their most vulnerable. He is determined to fulfill his duty as quickly as possible and return to fight for justice--but the courtesan he defends in Venice is resolved to remain at his side. The alluring and perceptive Christina will not be left behind, and soon Wulfe finds himself forced to choose between his vows and his heart...

• ISBN10: 1989367534
• ISBN13: 9781989367537
• Publish Date: 16 January 2020 (first published 3 December 2015)
• Publish Status: Active
• Imprint: Deborah A. Cooke
• Format: Paperback (US Trade)
• Pages: 350
• Language: English

Reviews

[kimbacaffeinate]

Christina through a series of unfortunate circumstances finds herself working as a Venetian courtesan. Wulfe a Templar on a secret mission seeks respite from events that have plagued him and looks for release in the arms of a woman. That woman is Christina. They enjoy each other’s company but a dangerous event in the middle of the night soon has Christina following Wulfe and joining his party.

Filled with banter, a slow seduction, and a stubborn man I quickly became caught up not only in their romance, but in Wulfe’s mission as well. While the events in Crusader’s Heart intertwine with those in Crusader’s Bride, the different perspective was entertaining. The tale was delivered in both Wulfe and Christina’s perspective which allowed me to laugh, admire their cleverness, and on occasion want to slap them both on the back of the head.

Christina and Wulfe were wonderfully developed as Delacroix shared their history. I truly felt for both and as a woman shivered at how brutal life could be. At first glance Wulfe could appear cold, but that is simply not true. He cares but thinks himself not entitled to happiness. I delighted in seeing him transform.

Delacroix captures the tensions of this period and had me googling for more information. Jerusalem is about to fall and these knights are traveling to Paris with a sacred treasure. In their group are merchants and nobleman seeking safe passage. No one knows what package they carry or whom in the party possess it. This adding suspense as it quickly became clear someone in the party is trying to steal it. As we travel Delacroix brings the countryside to life. She begins each chapter with a Saint Feast Day and I found myself curious about them.

Tim Gerard Reynolds delightfully brings the characters to life and I was pleased with both his female and male voices.

Audio provided by author. This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer