I am again undone by Ms. Frantz’s powerful storytelling and the rich detail and prose lent to this slow-burn romance set in the Scottish lowlands. Everything about this book was phenomenal! Blythe’s gentle, yet bold, love and loyalty, along with her personality of patient persistence made for a character that I found to be highly admirable. And Everard’s ability to take command in a tough situation, while still remaining compassionate, considerate and wise, was an immediate draw towards him for me. Plus, who could resist that Scottish brogue?! I laughed aloud, nearly cried, felt my heart swell with the fullness of understanding, was nearly lifted from my seat by the beauty of it all and ached with sympathy for the wrongs imposed. The Rose and the Thistle (don’t you just LOVE that title?!) had everything in it that I could’ve wanted. Supremely satisfying! Five stars!

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.