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Saving Grace

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Who Would Like This Book:

If you love historical romance with a feisty heroine and a dashing Highlander, "Saving Grace" is a classic. Julie Garwood infuses warmth, humor, and real emotional depth into Johanna's journey from abuse survivor to empowered woman. Fans rave about the fun banter between Johanna and Gabriel, the swoony romance, and the strong message of self-worth, even when set against the challenges of medieval Scotland. If you enjoy stories of healing, found family, and witty dialogue - with a dash of political intrigue and a lovable cast of side characters - this one's for you!

Who May Not Like This Book:

If you're not a fan of the medieval historical romance genre or dislike dominant alpha male heroes, this story might not be your cup of tea. Some readers found the characters too stereotypical or their relationship dynamics forced at times, and a few thought the plot was predictable or the pace dragged in places. Those who prefer deep realism or modern settings may also find the historical details and lighthearted tone a little far-fetched.

A heartwarming, funny, and emotionally satisfying historical romance that remains a fan favorite - ideal for anyone craving an uplifting tale of love, healing, and standing up for yourself.

About:

In "Saving Grace" by Julie Garwood, Lady Johanna, a young woman who endured an abusive marriage, finds herself in an arranged marriage to Scottish laird Gabriel MacBain. Together, they navigate the challenges of merging two clans while Johanna rediscovers her courage and confidence. The book is a medieval romance filled with comical moments, strong themes of empowerment, and a focus on the plight of women in the medieval ages.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with a strong, evolving heroine and a supportive hero, surrounded by humorous and rich supporting roles.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style combines humor and serious themes with engaging dialogue, though it has occasional critiques for its narrative structure.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative follows a woman's journey from a life of abuse to one of empowerment through an arranged marriage, tackling themes of love and personal growth.

Setting:

The setting is a rich historical landscape during the 1200s in Britain, intertwined with clan dynamics and cultural context.

Pacing:

Overall, the pacing is fast, maintaining reader engagement, though some sections might feel rushed or melodramatic.
Kelmet, her faithful steward and senior in charge since Baron Raulf Williamson’s hasty departure from England on the king’s personal business, was given the responsibility of telling his mistress the ...

Notes:

The book is set in 13th century England and Scotland.
The main character, Lady Johanna, is escaping an abusive marriage.
After her husband's death, she faces the pressure to remarry from King John.
Her brother arranges for her to marry Gabriel MacBain, a powerful Highland laird.
Gabriel initially views Johanna as a barbarian, while Johanna sees him as a rugged warrior.
The dialogue between Johanna and Gabriel is described as fun and exciting.
The story explores serious themes like abuse, trust, and healing.
Johanna learns to stand up for herself with the support of her new husband and community.
There is a humorous banter between Johanna and Gabriel throughout the book.
The book presents an uplifting narrative about women's empowerment.
Johanna evolves from timidity to strength as she builds her new life.
The novel emphasizes the importance of love and support in a relationship.
The author, Julie Garwood, is known for her engaging and humorous writing style.
Saving Grace is a popular re-read for many fans of historical romance.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of domestic abuse and psychological trauma.

Has Romance?

The book contains a strong romance, depicting the evolving relationship between the main characters.

From The Publisher:

In this splendid New York Times bestseller, Julie Garwood brilliantly crafts the majestic story of a young Englishwoman determined to fight for her freedom…a woman whose life would be transformed by the rare, unexpected gift of love.

When Lady Johanna learned that she was a widow, she vowed she would never marry again. Only sixteen, already she possessed a strength of will that impressed all who looked past her golden-haired beauty. Yet when King John demanded that she remarry - and selected a bridegroom for her - it seemed she must acquiesce, until her beloved foster brother suggested she wed his friend, the handsome Scottish warrior Gabriel MacBain.

At first Johanna was shy, but as Gabriel tenderly revealed the splendid pleasures they would share, she came to suspect that she was falling in love with her gruff new husband. And it was soon apparent to the entire Highlands clan that their brusque, gallant laird had surrendered his heart completely. But now a desperate royal intrigue threatened to tear her from his side - and to destroy the man whose love meant more to her than she had ever dreamed!

1993
465 pages

Ratings (24)

Incredible (10)
Loved It (10)
Liked It (2)
It Was OK (2)

Reader Stats (42):

Read It (28)
Want To Read (9)
Not Interested (5)

2 comment(s)

Liked It
6 months

This was a sweet book, but while I liked the characters and some of the plot, I just didn't find the plot did much for me.

 
Incredible
10 months

Julie Garwood highlander books are just catnip for when you need a lovely, sweet time. Please note that I've tagged this with "abuse" but that's because the FMC has a background of abuse - it doesn't happen on page, but she's clearly recovering from it.

I know I'll come back to JG's highlander books again and again.

 

About the Author:

Julie Garwood is among the most critically acclaimed-and popular-romance authors around, published in thirty-two languages worldwide with forty million copies of her books in print. She is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of numerous novels including Wired, Fast Track,…

 
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