Loyal Heart

If you like courtly manners and lots of authentic historical facts with lengthy dialog regarding current events during Germany’s 1136 AD era, you will likely enjoy Loyal Heart by Anna Markland. The first part focused on Johann and Kristina’s very sweet, though quick, “I love you but didn’t think you ever noticed me, so let’s get married now” engagement, which was quite convenient considering Kristina was a close friend of Johann’s sister, Sophia. But, hey, this true romantic is always glad to see two destined soulmates wind up together, even in rushed circumstances.

Elaborate wedding plans soon fell into place bringing Brandt, our second handsome hero, into the picture. He was sent to represent his people at the wedding festivities. Unfortunately, these two families are still at odds over a past battle and conflicting loyalties toward the current ruler. With Sophia and Brandt pretty much falling into a toned down version of Romeo and Juliet, a large portion of the rest of the book was spent in a “wait and see” mode with them giving each other looks of longing hoping everything will work out. After an incident right before the wedding, Brandt finds himself unable to leave for some time after Johann and Kristina’s wedding. Of course, they also get their HEA, but the book ends in a “to be continued” situation leaving both couples uncertain of their future.

I must admit the writing flowed well in the beginning, and I especially liked Sophia’s character and her chemistry/budding relationship with Brandt, but at about 80% I realized parts of it seemed drawn out, especially in regards to the possible upcoming conflict. Likely because this author does her homework and interjects quite a bit of knowledge about what would have likely transpired. I’m all about the romantic plot, however, so found myself skipping quite a bit near the end trying to get back to that aspect.

As this is book 1, you can bet this series will follow these two couples as they endure war and separation. Here’s to hoping they will at least be able to stay on the same side of the inevitable conflict about to consume them all.

Title: Loyal Heart, Series: The Von Wolfenburg Dynasty (Book 1), Author: Anna Markland, Pages: 185, German historical romance, only two steamy scenes near the end, stand-alone, HEA but with a “to be continued” cliffhanger type ending.

(This review is based on ARC generously provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion. No compensation was paid to the reviewer nor is there any affiliation between the reviewer and author/publisher. It will be posted on Amazon, Goodreads, NetGalley, and Barnes & Noble.)

We are treated to Brandt and Sophia's story along with delightful family members and intrigue in a history not as familiar to this reader. Looking forward to the next book in the series to see how this family thrives.

Received ebook from netgalley

It is a well written book but i did find it a little confusing at times, who was in what position, etc.
The characters are well developed and the author help you sympathize that the hero and heroine are or could be on opposite sides of political efforts.

Anna Markland’s new series The Von Wolfenberg Dynasty with the story of Sophia Von Wolfenberg and Brandt Rodermark's. Sophie is attending the wedding of her brother where she is surrounded by diplomats a plenty. Brandt Rodermark does not want to act as his overlord's envoy and travel into enemy territory for a wedding for the diplomat, Dieter Von Wolfenberg son. Sophie’s father is concerned there will be an assassin at the wedding and he has sworn to protect everybody. Brandt is badly beaten and even though he is considered the enemy they are deeply concerned with his welfare and finding the culprit before things escalate into more trouble. Sophie and Brandt are enemies who are drawn to each other. Will they find they can trust each other and find their HEA place between family loyalty and duty? A great start to a new series. I loved this strong independent Sophie and the vulnerable very handsome Brandt who has never know love.
I received an ARC copy from NetGalley and the publisher in an exchange for an honest review.

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This a good beginning to a family saga series. It is well written and has interesting characters and storylines. I really enjoyed reading this story, until the end. It has a HEA, but not at the end, then you're left hanging.