The Protector Book

A captivating new writer at an irresistible price

Critically acclaimed as "one of the brightest new writers in the genre," (Publishers Weekly) Madeline Hunter has taken the world of historical romance by storm with her sensually powerful novels that feature strong heroines, provocative heroes, and timeless passion. Now this hugely talented author offers us a new tale filled with her trademark blend of danger, adventure, and sizzling seduction.

The first time he laid eyes on her she had come to his rescue with a sword in her hand. Still Morvan Fitzwaryn had never seen any woman who aroused his interest and his passion more than the unconventional Breton warrior beauty. Anna de Leon took him into her castle and nursed him back to health, little knowing the spark of desire she was feeding with her caring ministrations. It wasn't long before Morvan had vowed to protect and conquer this unconquerable woman with all the sensual weapons at his disposal.

For her part, Anna de Leon had no interest in men as lovers or husbands. She was used to commanding men in battle. But she suddenly had the strange feeling that her well-fortified defenses could be breached by this dark-eyed, smolderingly handsome English knight. When her castle is besieged by an old enemy who claims both her and her lands, Anna finds she has no choice but to accept Morvan's aid — even if the enemy outside her walls is no match for the ally within, who with every tantalizing kiss and forbidden embrace threatens to make her a prisoner of her own fiery passion.

Publishers Weekly

Brimming with rich historical detail and fiery repartee, Hunter's latest 14th-century romance (following By Design) is a battle of wills between Breton warrior beauty Anna de Leon and Morvan Fitzwaryn, the knight who is determined to subdue her. The Black Plague propels Morvan to seek refuge on Anna's lands, but when the disease fails to claim him, Morvan assumes a position as one of Anna's knights. With her father dead and the war over Breton raging between England and France, Anna must don men's clothing and a sword to defend her people. Morvan, however, is chiefly concerned with keeping Anna safe. Despite her attraction to Morvan, Anna is bound to enter the abbey once her younger sister is married. In addition, Anna's ignorance of her own attractiveness leads her to think that Morvan is only after her family's estate. Their path to attaining a loving relationship is freckled with a few feverish battles, several humorous minor disputes and many compromises, as Morvan slowly learns to accept Anna for the brazen, independent woman she is. Hunter is at home with this medieval setting, and her talent for portraying intelligent, compelling characters seems to develop with each book. This feisty tale is likely to win her the broader readership she deserves. (July 3) Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.