A Sorceress of His Own by Dianne Duvall

A Sorceress of His Own (Gifted Ones, #1)

by Dianne Duvall

From the New York Times bestselling author of the acclaimed Immortal Guardians series comes an enchanting new series full of romance, danger, and loyalty: The Gifted Ones

Since the day Lord Dillon earned his spurs, rumors of his savagery on the battlefield have preceded him into every room, stilling tongues and sparking fear. Weary of battle, he wishes only to find a woman he can wed who will approach him not with fear, but with the tenderness that has been absent from his life for so long. Yet only the wisewoman seems invariably at ease in his presence. Perhaps because she garners the same fear in others that he does himself.

For seven years, Alyssa has been by Lord Dillon's side, counseling him from the shadows, healing him with her hands, and staving off the worst of his loneliness while his fearsome reputation keeps others at bay. Blessed--or cursed--with gifts that label her a sorceress, she is forced to conceal her youth and the love she harbors for him beneath umbral robes that lead Dillon and his people to believe she is the same aged wisewoman who served his father.

All is revealed, however, and passions flare when an enemy threatens Dillon's life and Alyssa sacrifices everything to save him. When Dillon discovers that the wisewoman is far from elderly, he is instantly entranced. And, as he and Alyssa work together to defeat an enemy bent on destroying them both, Dillon will risk anything--even the wrath of his king--to be with her.

Reviewed by kimbacaffeinate on

4 of 5 stars

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A Sorceress of His Own takes us to 1198 England and the keep of Lord Dillon, Earl of Wescott. Feared by many and respected by all, Dillon is a fierce warrior, defender of the crown, and a fair lord. His chief advisor and resident healer is the "Wisewoman." Cloaked in dark robes, no one has seen her face. Others perceive her an old woman whom some believe is immortal. She served both his father and grandfather.

There is much Dillon does not know about his Wisewoman. At the age of sixteen, Alyssa took over the role of Wisewoman from her grandmother when Dillon came into power. Alyssa has had a crush on Dillon since she first laid eyes on him and witnesses a kindness. He knows her only as an old woman since she alters her voice and uses magic to conceal her youthful hands. She is both a healer and a seer.

I absolutely loved the story that unfolded and the period is such a dangerous time for someone like Alyssa. Duvall creates characters that I instantly connect with and pulled me into their romance giving me all the feels, swoons, and giggles I could ask for.

I loved how fierce, stubborn and yet caring Alyssa was. She readily makes sacrifices for others and yet denies herself. I loved her transformation throughout the story and the way in which her relationship changed with Dillon's men and with those in the keep.

Dillon is all warrior, and yet in his chambers, he reveals a gentler side. He cares for his people, wants someone strong by his side. He enjoys pillow talk and places value in others opinions. He is protective and dominant without being overly possessive.

The romance was completely swoon-worthy and unrushed. Duvall slowly allowed their relationship to develop, giving us tender moments, moments of discovery and yes-unbridled passion. I loved the teaser, banter, moments of misunderstandings and resolutions. There are SO MANY awesome quotes filled with snark and humor I wanted to share with you but think you should discover them on your own.

Politics, betrayals, battles, and mortal wounds surrounded the romance giving us a sense of this world, government, and climate. The story was addictive as Dillon and his soldiers faced nemesis. Alyssa had visions of danger to come. We faced twists, turns, and unknowns that placed our hero and heroine in peril.

Duvall is a masterful storyteller who fleshes out her worlds and gives depth to her characters. Even her secondary characters are memorable. I loved the thread about the gifted ones and loved that Seth (from Immortal Guardians) has been protecting gifted ones all of this time.

Kristen Potter narrated, and she was perfect for this tale. This was my first experience with Potter, but I must confess it will not be my last. Her voices, tones, and accents were spot on creating another layer to an already brilliant tale.

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

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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 7 October, 2016: Finished reading
  • 7 October, 2016: Reviewed