The Maiden and the Warrior (Harlequin Historical, No 403)

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Summary: BOOK DESCRIPTION
Review: The war within is always hardest won, Lucien de Montegnier knew, for he daily battled demons from his past. Still, his fighting prowess had won him an unexpected boon: Lady Alayna of Avenford, a hellcat with a heart who alone could save him from his greatest enemy- himself! * Widowed before she was truly a wife, Alayna of Avenford now found herself claimed as a war prize by Lucien de Montregnier, a warrior as well known for his fierce nature as he was for his skill in battle. She despised him, of course. But why, then, did his merest glance ignite her very soul?

Rating:
Summary: BOOK DESCRIPTION
Review: The war within is always hardest won, Lucien de Montegnier knew, for he daily battled demons from his past. Still, his fighting prowess had won him an unexpected boon: Lady Alayna of Avenford, a hellcat with a heart who alone could save him from his greatest enemy- himself! * Widowed before she was truly a wife, Alayna of Avenford now found herself claimed as a war prize by Lucien de Montregnier, a warrior as well known for his fierce nature as he was for his skill in battle. She despised him, of course. But why, then, did his merest glance ignite her very soul?

Rating:
Summary: Stunning!! A really good read!!
Review: This, as it says on the inside front cover, is Ms. Navin's first book. (?) Anywho, she plots an amazing story, about true love and it's very bumpy cource.This book portrays a man, Lucien de Montregnier, who is beset by demons from his past. Returning from slavery to kill his fathers murdurer, he is confronted by Lady Alayna of Avenford, a saucy woman who was widowed before her husband, whom she despised by the way, could make her his wife in truth. Sparks immediatly fly, but pride on both sides prevents them from sucoming(sorry, I have no clue how to spell that word)to their deepest desires. Lucien, trying to find peace, discoveres the exact opposite when, to strengthen his claim to the lordless barony left vacent by the death of Alayna's husband, marries Alayna.
This is a touching story. The only fault I can find is that Alayna is in the beginning, a spoiled little brat with too much pride, and a kind heart hidden away under insults and arrogance. All in All, Ms Navin, a wonderful read and I can't wait to get to the library to pick up another!!!
(PS, this book was sooooo good, I started at 7 o'clock and finished at around 9:45!!!!! I couldn't put it down!!!!