Action, tension, treachery, and romance harmonize beautifully.
Legendary First Knight of Camelot, famed Sir Lancelot Du Lac is an inspiring figure and a worthy mentor, but he is not the hero of this tale. No, this is the story of a spirited princess and a love her station in life forbids. Ill health has beset King Guillemin of Finistère so he calls for his beautiful daughter to return home in haste. Eager to leave the trivialities of the big city behind and return to her life of purpose, Gabrielle has mixed feelings when she sees her father’s condition. The king’s vitality is quickly waning and time is of the essence since French law stipulates that a woman cannot ascend the throne unwed. King Guillemin announces a Yuletide Joust with Gabrielle’s hand in marriage as the prize. Sir Lancelot is a generous host and shrewd planner, giving an amiable ally the best shot of winning the Christmas joust and kingly throne. Gabrielle can appreciate her father’s difficult position as this marriage alliance will have significant implications across the region, though she’s not fond of being a political pawn. But can the princess go through with a marriage to someone she doesn’t love? Especially when her heart belongs to Sir Bastien de Landuc, a man she was never meant to love.
Action, tension, treachery, and romance harmonize beautifully in Jennifer Ivy Walker’s medieval adventure, Winter Solstice in the Crystal Castle. A festive story set in a world of Arthurian legend, this fast-moving novel expands into steamy new territory with a torrid love affair between a young princess and her strapping knight. Starcrossed lovers is a favorite trope in romance and this resplendent novel will remind readers exactly why. Gabrielle might be titled, but she’s never entitled, and Bastien is chivalrous and brave, even when it seems the universe is against him. Their plight and personalities make for a couple that audiences will root for. Elements of danger keep the pace lively while ties of family and friendship anchor the story in warm territory. Though the narrative treads familiar ground with its heavily rooted patriarchy, conniving political ploys, and foreseeable plot twists, the prose is transportive, the relationships are believable, and the story is immensely enjoyable from start to finish. If you like romantic fairy tales with a hint of spice, a sense of loyalty, and a cheerful holiday backdrop, you’ll love every moment of Winter Solstice in the Crystal Castle.
