Courageous Heart

This was truly an exceptional story. It is book 2 in The Von Wolfenberg Dynasty. The hero is Lute Von Wolfenberg and the heroine is an Italian (Sicilian)/German. He is her enemy and she tries to thwart his progress. The two start experience feelings for one another. He and his brother's are in Lothair's armed forces which have conquered the castle where Francesca is. Each brother, and his brother-in-law serves Lothair's military in various capacities. They are far from their homeland.

This whole story is wonderful. This is a very engaging story filled with action, humor, passion, sadness and even despair. Deserves more than 5 star.

Courageous Heart is the fourth book this reviewer has read by Anna Markland. If you like lots of authentic historical details interwoven with fictional characters within a romantic tale, you might want to consider not only this series, but her other previous books, as well. I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again. Ms. Markland does her homework. She’s obviously very knowledgeable about the time period her stories take place.

**spoilers possible**

Though Lute and Francesca’s tale begins on opposites sides of the political table, from the moment their eyes meet, they experience a soul connection that will not be denied. Starting with pretending to be married to someone else to hide her identity as the niece of Lute’s adversary king, these two dance around each other until the truth is revealed and danger and drama unfold around them. Our beautiful heroine finds herself torn between loyalty to her uncle and her growing love for Lute. She wants to somehow stop the inevitable slaughter of Lute and his army when her uncle sends soldiers to lay siege to the castle she is being held. After falling into a trap by an adversary relative, Francesca finds herself traveling with Lute back his homeland. I have to admit, during the journey I felt less engaged. Mainly because the main couple’s romance took a backseat to other events/characters. But not to worry, folks. Once the couple arrive at Lute’s home, despite the death of a dearly beloved family member, this couple is united in marriage and get their HEA.

Title: Courageous Heart, Series: The Von Wolfenberg Dynasty (Book 2), Author: Anna Markland, Pages: 211, stand-alone but part of a series, HEA, some violence, only a couple steamy scenes, virgin hero & heroine, no cheating, no OW/OM drama, no love triangle, German vs Sicilian historical romance., heroine is a healer.

Book 1 – Loyal Heart, Pages: 185 (Sophia & Brandt), 5/3/16

Book 2 – Courageous Heart, Pages: 211 (Lute & Francesca), 6/22/16

(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.)

Courageous Heart by Anne Markland is #2 in her intriguing "The Von Wolfenberg Dynasty" series, it can be read as a stand alone. See, "Loyal Heart". A mixture of authentic historical details interwoven with fictional characters makes an intriguing and interesting romantic tale. The Von Wolfenberg saga continues with Luke Von Wolfenberg, the middle son of the family. He's the care free, no responsibilities nor any prospects, until he goes off to war between the Silician and Germans. In a foreign land, he meets the sensuous, Francesca di Cammarata, niece of Roger of Sicily, the Emperor's arch enemy. Who has many secrets and deceit she perpetuates upon Luke and his fellow soldiers. Will Luke be able to forgive her or will their passion be able to bring healing and forgiveness? Will they found their HEA, or lose all to country, tragedy, family and a worn torn country?

After Luke, his older brother, his brother-in-law and with Francesca i tow, head home, they find tragedy, along with two joyous arrivals and upcoming nuptials. While, the Von Wolfenberg's world is rocked to their very foundation, they must find a way to carry on their Dynasty.

A well written, but complex Romantic tale with many challenges, struggles, twists and turns, and humans emotions, readers will find themselves caught up in this tidal wave of emotions. Another great addition to "The Von Wolfenberg Dynasty" series. Fans of German and Silican conflict, Historical Fiction, mixed with romance, intrigue, and a bit of suspense, will enjoy Luke and Francesca's story. Pick up a copy for yourself, and find out the fuss. Received for an honest review from Net Gallery.

Rating: 4.5 Heat rating: Mild hot, due to mild violence Reviewed by: AprilR

Courageous Heart by Anne Markland is a remarkable story of Lute von Wolfenberg he is the carefree middle son of Von Wolfenberg Dynasty. He’s lived care free most of his life with no responsibilities or any prospects, but when war between the Sicilian and Germans happens he feels obliged to fight in the army of the Holy Roman Emperor in a foreign war. While fighting in foreign land traveling from Germany to Italy he meets the sensuous, beautiful Francesca di Cammarata who happens to be the niece of Roger of Sicily, the Emperor's arch enemy. Francesca is in the wrong place at the wrong time when the town she has taken shelter in is overrun by her uncle's enemies. She knows she is in danger and tries to keep identity a secret from the Emperor’s men. Francesca knows she needs to thwart the imperial troops, but she cannot deny her feelings for Lute. Despite being on opposite sides Lute knows he should not be attracted to her, he just cannot seem to stay away from her the instant sensual attraction between Francesca and Lute is very strong. Will the sexual tension and conflict test their loyalty to country and family? Francesca has many secrets and deceit she perpetuates upon Luke and his fellow soldiers. Will Luke be able to forgive her and remain loyalty to country and family and find their HEA? Great story I highly recommend this book!!!
I was given an ARC copy from Net Galley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Lute is the second son of the von Wolfenberg family who fights in the army of the Holy Roman Emperor and finds Francesca, who is destined to be his love. Their love has to survive intrigue and war to thrive. This author breathes life into tales from times long ago. Enjoying reading about this family.

Ebook from netgalley and publishers with thanks.