Early Book Review: By His Majesty's Grace by Jennifer Blake

By His Majesty's Grace by Jennifer Blake is a charming well-researched historical romance, which will be released on July 26 2011. The story revolved around Lady Isabel Milton and Earl Rand Braesford. Isabel has spent years spreading talk of a curse that has thus far protected herself and her two younger sisters from unwanted marriage. Rand was enchanted by the sight of Isabel at a social event, and was thankful to receive the bounty of her hand and marriage via his favor with the king. Isabel is not eager to deliver herself into any man's control, and is relieved when the wedding is interrupted. However, even her reluctance does not make her glad to see Rand charged with serious crimes that she does not believe him guilty. Court intrigue and the conflicted times are well researched and represented within the story, adding extra elements of realism to the story.

The idea of medieval marriage, often arranged by men with little to no say of the women involved, is not new. However, Blake does a great job of making it fresh in By His Majesty's Grace. Rand is a hero that has led a dangerous and hard life, but protects those that are weaker than he is. Again, it is not a new idea, but it is so well done that there are no moments of déjÆ' vu or boring familiarity to be found here. Te only thing that I did not like was Rand's instantaneous infatuation with Isabel, and the matching interest by other men. If that attraction had be explained by a conversation, or words of her character, or just something more that a simple view from across the room I might have felt more satisfied. However, people often form attachments or make decisions based on just as little in real life, so it was not completely unbelievable. There are schemes and characters causing some surprising moments and peaking my curiosity as to what might happen with the side characters in the future, even those that I might know the true future of through history. I am very thankful that I was able to read By His Majesty's Grace prior to publication thanks to netGalley. The character development done by Blake was wonderful and I look forward to continuing to read the books promised to be forthcoming on the fates of Isabel's younger sisters.