Promise Of The Rose By Brenda Joyce Direct

Mary's discovery of Stephen's true war plans leads to a devastating rift. Stephen, feeling betrayed when he finds her eavesdropping, labels her a traitor and vows to treat her with cold indifference, denying her the affection she craves. Key Themes & Style

The story begins with Mary being captured by Norman invaders while in disguise as a peasant. Refusing to reveal her royal identity to protect her family, she is held captive by Stephen, her father's fiercest enemy. Promise of the Rose by Brenda Joyce

Stephen is portrayed as a "damaged alpha" who is hard, ruthless, and often unforgiving, a characterization typical of "old-school" historical romances. Mary's discovery of Stephen's true war plans leads