This book has religious tensions, political intrigue, rich Scottish & English heritage, and so much more. With once again both a strong male and female lead, I'm beginning to see Laura Frantz's type... ;)

I enjoyed this story, with so many rich historical details set in a period of time I don't know much about or read about either. Laura has the skill to craft a story about history no one knows about and take you directly into the setting with her words. This particular time of history fascinated me and now I'd like to do some research on my own.

I did find it slow to get going (the plot only really started around the 20-25% mark), but once I got past the beginning, I finished it in one sitting.

For some reason, I had the impression this would be a Beauty & the Beast retelling, which it was not - at least, I don't know for sure... it had some very similar aspects to the fairytale. You have the smart, bookish heroine, coupled with a faraway castle in foreign lands.

I wasn't sure how faith would be dealt with considering the tensions between Catholics and Protestants during this time period, but I thought Laura Frantz did a good job sharing both sides. I did have to wonder at how easily one of characters took up the other religion in order to marry. That's quite a step to take, laying aside loyalties to a religion and all the religious ceremonies that go with it. It makes one wonder how many people truly believed the faith they were professing during that time.

All that to say, I did love how both characters were serious about their faith, and not just token Christians but actually turned to God in prayer in many situations where direction was needed. This was encouraging and refreshing to read.

*I received a copy of The Rose and the Thistle from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to leave a positive opinion, and all thoughts are my own.

Content Note: This does feature a married couple at one point, although this aspect was very tastefully done. I enjoyed seeing a peek at the 'happily-ever-after' side of marriage.

The Rose and the Thistle is a tale penned by an author with an unparalleled talent for sweeping historical romance that not only enchants her readers, but also points to our Lord and Savior. I am left in wonderment at the artistry of this Scottish romance which also serves as a love letter to Scotland and Scottish heritage. This story is truly and utterly a masterful work of art. The author’s use of imagery to paint a picture with words made me feel like I was back in Scotland again, yet this time a little over 300 years in the past. Everard is a hero of the highest order, and his English rose Blythe is a heroine of beauty, strength, and faith. The romance of this story is breathtaking and utterly beautiful, and the latter half of this tale brings action, passion, and inseparable devotion as the Jacobite Rebellion of 1715 reaches its climax. I cannot sing higher praises of this novel, and cannot adequately put into words how much I adored it. The Rose and the Thistle is an absolutely magnificent fairytale of faith, love, and devotion steeped in the history and beauty of Scotland, and it could not possibly get any better than that!

I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher for review purposes. My thoughts are completely my own.

What a story! I love it. There is so much in this book which has a rich vein working throughout that connects to the author's own family bloodline. To me this honors her brave Scot ancestors, their fierce devotion to the land, traditions and loyalty of family and kingdom.
Lady Blythe is the intelligent, kind and devout young English woman who is spirited away to the grand Scottish home of her godparents. Soon after her arrival she learns of unexpected changes.
Everard is a former soldier who has come home to aid his ailing father. He learns he has many responsibilities thrust upon his life including care of his much younger brother, the estate and this stranger, the woman he must hide and protect.
The time period, buildings, clothing and the characters are very appealing. The comraderie between several of the brothers is endearing, the sweet, slow building romance and the great conflict in the land just moves this story along magnetically.
I want to thank the author, publisher and NetGalley for my advanced reader's copy. This is an excellent book. This is my own unsolicited opinion about it.

I started reading this book and it was a bit hard for me. It was a slow start. But, I continued reading and am glad I did. I really enjoy historical fiction and this was a part of history that I had not read much about. I was interested also by the geography and my ancestors are from England and Scotland.

I felt that the two main characters were nicely filled out. The sub-characters were also easy to identify with if not as fully rounded out. The story flowed quite well and kept my interest once I got past the beginning.

What I did not like was the ending felt rushed. There were also a couple of things that did not get tied up. I wish there had been an epilogue to address a couple of issues left dangling.

Overall I give this 4 out of 5 stars. I was given an ARC of this book through the Revell Reads program. And even with this being an ARC, the editing was very well done.

Really enjoyed the slow burn. The perspective shifts were confusing, as was the flip-flopping between Lady Hedley and Lady Blythe. But the history was interesting and the romance rewarding.

I honestly had a hard time getting into this because there is so much going on and I was interrupted a lot. I will definitely be trying again because what did register was beautiful and I need to read it again to get the whole story! Better review coming later…

I loved this historical fiction romance. I loved Lady Blythe and Everard. I loved reading about the Jacobites during this unsettled period of time. I loved the intrigue in this story. I also loved the romance as Blythe and Everard got to know each other. I enjoyed that this took place mainly in Scotland. I could not put this book down. I received a copy of this book from Revell for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

The Rose and the Thistle by Laura Frantz
Normally I don't read book in this time period, but I thought The Rose and the Thistle had a great cover and description.

The Rose and the Thistle was a great book. It was a strong storyline and the character were well written and quite likable. You can tell that the author did her research and at the end you find out that this is part of her family history. I found that really remarkable.

Even though I don't normally read this time period and this author is new to me, I would gladly read another book by Laura Frantz

I rate this book a 5 out of 5

I received this complimentary copy from publisher for a honest review. All thoughts and opinion are mine and mine alone.

Lady Blythe Hedley is forced to flee her English home when her father is declared a traitor to the crown. Arriving at her godfather’s Scottish castle in the dead of night, she learns he has recently passed away and her life depends on the mercy of his eldest son.

In a short time, Everard Hume has lost his father, become caretaker of his family’s estate and his youngest brother, and learned of another brother’s siding with the rebellion. And now a fleeing heiress has landed on his doorstop—what’s a Scottish laird to do?

Rich with history and characters who remain with the reader long after the last page is turned, The Rose and the Thistle is a must-read for fans of historical fiction. The glossary of terms at the beginning of the book is a bit intimidating, but I found that I rarely referred back to it as the author so skillfully wove the language into context. Frantz intertwines history, compassion, peril, and a romance against all odds to create an unforgettable story. And the ending—Och! as the Scottish would say.

*Thank you to @netgalley and @revellbooks for the complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

this book was different. It was hard for me to get into because of the time period. Maybe I am not the right audience for this book. Overall, it was okay. If you like historical fiction , then you might like it

The title may give away the players in this story, but The Rose and the Thistle still has surprises in store for readers. Laura Frantz’s newest Christian romance is educational about the Jacobite uprising and how those near the border had to decide on a side. It is a story of a wealthy English gentlewoman who must flee her home and arrives at a safe house full of Scots who are leery of her. An adventure of the early 1700’s, unlikely participants are thrown together. Frantz does her usual magic of creating characters who are detailed with problems of their time period, yet are endearing. Our heroine is transferred from France to England an then arrives in Scotland, due to the beliefs and history of her ancestors. She adapts to each situation, but holds tight to those parts of her that are most important. This author creates characters who use their prayers and faith to help them make decisions and get them through tough times. I love these reminders in books for life today. I suggest this novel for anyone who enjoys a slow burn romance with a light adventure in the background and atmospheric descriptions of place. Thank you to NetGalley for an ecopy of this novel in return for an honest review.

“You are still my English rose. While I remain your Scottish thistle.”

My favorite Laura Frantz novel to date! I loved returning to Scotland through the author’s captivating storytelling and learned a great deal about the Jacobite Rising in 1715 through Blythe and Everard. Lush details of Scottish country life and swirling political unrest, unforgettable characters, heart-stopping romance, strong faith thread that overcomes denominational barrier, and gripping plot all make this book a worthy read and one of my favorites this year.

Everard is a classic Laura Frantz hero - gruff but tender, loyal to the core, a fierce warrior and an innovative leader. Blythe is an educated intellectual, daughter of a duke, and compassionate. Their meeting is under distressing circumstances but their blossoming relationship is fun and witty and shows a side of them that others rarely see. I know the author doesn’t usually write sequels but I would love to see books that follow Everard’s younger brothers.

If you enjoy historical romance that will transport you to a different time and place with action and depth, you will absolutely adore this book. I received the book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

The Rose and the Thistle is an engaging and wonderful book set in France, England and Scotland. I know virtually nothing about the United Kingdom's history so I found myself "googling" to find out even more about the historical figures in the book. I fell in love with Everard the very tall, dark and handsome warrior. Especially by the way he took such loving care of his eight year old brother Orin. Who, by the way is absolutely precious. The heroine, Blythe is very intelligent and kind hearted lady. The romance is beautifully done and I did some swooning. If you love historical romance, then I recommend this exceptional book to you.

I do hope the author would do a romance story with Everard's other brothers. They each are such great characters, that I'd love to see them have their own story.
*I was given a copy by Revell Publishers and this is my honest opinion.

This book is full of history! So if you love historical romance that takes place in Scotland with the Jacobites, this book is perfect. So much political history that I didn’t really know about. It was fun learning the history! Also thought it is pretty cool that Laura Frantz is a direct descendant of George Hume of wedderburn castle! I loved the characters! Lady Blythe Hedley is English and somewhat of a Jacobite sympathizer but her father is being sought by the crown which makes Blythe run to Wedderburn Castle in Scotland. Her father set up that she would go there in case anything happened.
Everard Hume has just become the new Lord Wedderburn after his fathers passing. Even before is father is laid to rest Blythe and her ladies maid show up. Now he has to hide them on top of everything else. However it is not easy when he has 5 brothers around and Blythe sneaks out to the garden in the middle of the night. Orin, the youngest brother, discovers her and then she is revealed to the other brothers and becomes Orins teacher of sorts. Everard and Blythe don’t get along too well at first but soon that changes.
Really enjoyed this book and the characters. Great story, Christian elements throughout, clean and I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️


I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author and netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

England and Scotland in 1715. the story centered around the Jacobite rebellion that occurred in Britain. The political climate is tense, with strong supporters on both sides making life difficult for those who want to survive the upheaval intact regardless of who is on the throne. It was a story that was delivered perfectly in just about every way…It has tender emotion, human struggle, intrigue, faith, courage, and strength of character beautifully displayed, and a warm and endearing romance, her descriptions were wonderfully visual..... the romance that developed from a rocky start, was very sweet, Everard was a perfect complement to Blythe strong and wise leader with the capacity for kindness and understanding.

“’ Surely there are praiseworthy things about her, as she was made in the Lord’s image.’” - What a great thought to ponder when struggling with others.

The writing is beautiful, you could just feel it in every scene, the thought, time, and research that went through this book. The slow-burn romance is done right, and the plot moves at the right pace, with plenty of conflicts and emotional tension, I enjoy every moment of this story. Highly Recommended it! if you love to read history, with plenty of twists, drama, and romance, this is for you.

"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."

Thank you Netgalley and Revell for access to this arc.

Last year when I read “A Heart Adrift,” I wrote this in my review and I’m going to repeat it here as it applies to this book, too. “As I’ve tagged this with “inspirational,” I’ll go ahead and tell readers that yes there is a lot of faith in the story but that is because these are religious characters who hold their faith close but don’t preach at others. Rather they quote scripture to ease worries and grief.” But religion is also important in this story as it takes place leading up to and just after the Rising of 1715 when James Stuart attempted to regain his father’s throne which was lost in some part due to James II’s Catholic faith.

Readers not fond of slow and leisurely books be warned. This one takes its time but also offers a detailed glimpse of life in the early 18th century in a Scottish border castle. No, it’s not all grim and haggis filled (though Blyth discovers a taste for that). The castle is beautifully appointed, has a garden that sounds delightful, a library Blyth dives into, and loyal servants proud of who and where they are. I wish a bit more time had been spent on the improvements Everard and his brothers are overseeing but enough is there to show the Humes care about the people in their charge.

The romance is a slow burn though Blyth and Everard are in each other’s company a lot and think of the other often. I could understand why they don’t rush into passionate clinches as there are other eventualities to think about. Blyth worries about her father on the run and how his actions could impact her. Everard has been a loyal soldier when Queen Anne was on the throne but the new Hanovarian king could dismiss all that should it become known the Humes are sheltering the daughter of a wanted Jacobite. This bit was eventually delved into, highlighting life under a monarch who could mess you up as he’d done his own wife in Celle. Once Blyth and Everard are committed, that’s it though, there is no other.

For most of the book, I was waiting for when the Rising would occur and how this was going to affect the MCs. Once this took center stage, it didn’t last too long so I would say the story is mainly the romance and view of life on the Scottish borderlands. I enjoyed it enough that even the (fairly skillful, if I do say) inclusion of Scottish brogue and language didn’t bother me. Before I finish, let me repeat I Want Orin’s Story. B

Laura Frantz’s books are amazing! She really knows how to make history come alive. Not only do you feel like you’ve been transported back in time, but the characters become so real it’s hard to let them go. The Rose and the Thistle is no exception and has to be one of my favorites of her books. It’s one I’ll want to reread and savor.

It’s the year 1715 and the Duke of Northumbria’s Jacobite sympathies have made him an enemy to the English King. He calls his daughter Lady Blythe home from France and appeals to her godfather Lord Wedderburn to take her in for her own protection. Before any arrangements can be made, Lady Blythe is forced to leave her home with just the clothes on her back. She flees to Wedderburn Castle in Scotland, but finds her presence is unwelcome.

Lord Everard Wedderburn is suddenly thrust into his position as Laird when his father dies. With several younger brothers to contend with, he finds his new responsibilities a bit overwhelming. The brewing political turmoil in which his brother David is involved also makes his position precarious despite his distinguished military service.

When Lady Blythe unexpectedly shows up on his doorstep, her presence is not only a threat, but must remain secret for her welfare as well as his own. But, keeping her a secret from his brothers proves to be too much. Her brilliant intellect and sweet disposition are just what his youngest brother Orin needs. The more time Everard spends with Blythe the more he loves their witty banter and feels an attraction towards her he’s not felt with any other woman. But are their differences too much to overcome especially with so much at stake?

I absolutely adored Blythe and Everard. Everard is everything a hero is meant to be. Not only is he absolutely swoon worthy with that Scottish brogue, but his dry sense of humor, leadership, strength, and tenderness are so endearing. I also loved that he has strong faith and isn’t afraid to show it.

I loved Blythe’s character as well. She’s faithful, smart, humble, and quick witted. She’s a bit self consciousness about her height, and her mother’s past which weighs on her. The attraction and love she feels towards Everard make her afraid she’ll turn out to be like her mother. It was so enjoyable when she finally allows herself to believe in Everard’s love. I also enjoyed her spunk and all the verbal repartee with Everard.

There’re some great twists and turns in this story that about tore my heart out. It’s one of those epic slow burn romances that pulls you in and won’t let go. All the characters are fabulous especially the brothers and I can’t wait to read more about them.

The history behind the story is fascinating. It was interesting to learn that this book is based on the author’s own ancestors. I loved the famous quotes at the beginning of each chapter and the way faith was naturally woven into the story. The historical religious conflict between Catholics and Protestants was a key issue which the author handled so well. Highly recommend this book to historical fiction, historical romance, and Christian fiction readers. Looking forward to the next book! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.

What a captivating, and interesting read! From beginning to end, I was immersed in this book, but also learning of things I never knew.

Can you imagine being in the midst of grieving and having a young woman arrive for sanctuary at your door, her father sent her for refuge, she is your late father's goddaughter!

There are so many interesting facts here, and it sure was hard to be a Catholic at this point in time in the United Kingdom. Be sure to read the authors notes at the end of this read, and we see how personal this page turner is to her.

This is a story of sweet romance, but add in the turmoil happening at this time, you will not know until the end whom will survive!

I received this book through the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.

Fantastic! The Rose and the Thistle is absolutely a joy to read and I loved every minute of this story. Laura Frantz is an extremely talented author, and one of my very favorite must-read authors.

This sweet and captivating historical fiction takes place in Scotland. I loved the setting, I loved the characters, and the Scottish expressions.

Lady Blythe Hedley, and Everard Hume, the new Lord Wedderburn get off to a rather rocky start. She can't understand half of what he says, but she understood this "Milady-yer as welcome as water in a holed ship." There is much political and religious upheaval in Scotland, England, and Ireland at this time, and Lady Blythe, a Catholic, is delivered in the dead of night with her lady's maid to a Protestant castle right after Everard's father passed away. No Catholic estate was a safe refuge at this time, and Everard didn't want it known that she was there either, so she in ensconced in the tower for the time being. Everard's father had invited Lady Blythe, and his parents who had at one time been Catholic, were Lady Blythe's godparents. But sheltering her is the last thing Lord Wedderburn wants or needs. The pacing of this story and the ongoing tensions were pitch perfect. I loved the slow burn romance.

My favorite romantic line is "You are still my English rose, while I remain your Scottish thistle."
You must read the note at the end and learn more about how this beautiful work of historical fiction is tied to the author's ancestors

I highly recommend The Rose and the Thistle, I loved every minute of it.

Thank you to the author, publisher and net galley for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.

This is my first Laura Frantz book and I am blown away! The writing was so descriptive and immersive. I've always been a big fan of Scotland and this not only fed my love of all things Scottish but gave me such a deep appreciation of what Scotland has been through.

From start to finish I could not put this book down. Just when I thought there would be a slight lull to let me sleep or do some household chores I was pulled back in by something or other happening. I loved the amount of suspense and how it was portrayed. I always love a book that has me researching history alongside and I learned so much from this book. The hardships faced were plotted and I became deeply invested in how things would play out. The Christianity in this book was unparalleled. It was perfectly balanced and endeared these characters (including the side characters) to me, heart and soul. The romance was superb! If the main characters didn't already own a piece of my heart the romance secured it. I LOVE reading about genuinely and intentionally GOOD characters.

Five stars, two thumbs up, all of the accolades and more for this one! It was truly beautiful!

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.

**Content: mild battle/violence/wounds, a couple mentions of infidelity, marriage consummation and implied marital relations. Nothing explicit or detailed. Would recommend it for mature teens and up.