This was the first book I read by Bertrice Small, I was 16 at the time. Now, nearly 15 years later, I am still a huge fan of hers, and have all the books she has written. This book was so good, it got me 'addicted' to her writing. This book has great historical detail, and is written so well you can visualize the things you are reading about. If you haven't read anything by Bertrice Small, this is a great start. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who likes historical romance!

Am I the only reader who thought that Delight's punishment wasn't severe enough? (Spoilers)She plotted to kill her sister, with no remorse, and she didn't even get a slap on the wrist! Everyone felt sorry for her and she even gets to marry a wonderful guy! If I were Blaze, I would beat her black and blue! Other than that, I really enjoyed the book, as I do all Small's books.

This should have been a great story, but I don't enjoy reading about 30-40 year men who marry children. It may have been the norm in the era but, it is not romantic to me. Blaze was a great character however, I don't believe that a fifteen girl (which is how old Blaze is when she marries Edmund) could come off sounding so more mature no matter the time period or circumstances. Another thing that disturbed me was the language. A seven year old [is using bad language]. I'm appalled by this language. I wonder if this word was used then. I prefer romance between two people who are at least in the proximity of the same age because it is more believable.

This novel is character driven by the title leading lady. She's a woman of principle and of honor, a woman who really knows how to love and the pain loving can sometimes bring. I like Blaze better than Small's other heroines specifically because she's a simple country woman doing what she has to do and meeting her obligations without hesitation. Blaze finds adventure without becoming a pirate or being abducted into a harem--she's not unlike someone the reader might actually know in real life. Find this one if you can. It's worth the search.