Book Reviews

Book Blurb

Once a renowned tournament fighter known as the "Lion of Kent," William Raven joined the Templars in the Holy Land to escape his past and the political machinations of his enemies. Called to protect travelling pilgrims bound for Jerusalem, William comes face to face with Guy de Metz, his lover from the past. But Guy is no longer the foppish young noble William knew.

Guy de Metz once tamed the famous Lion, but failed to hold onto the man. Rumours and intrigue tore them apart, and William left seemingly without a thought. Now as they meet again, William claims he has sworn himself to God and God alone, but Guy believes that somewhere inside William’s chest, the proud, fierce man he used to love is still alive, and he will prove it.

Book Review

"And think not that you can direct the course of love, for love, if it finds you worthy, directs your course." ~ Khalil Gibran

When someone vows to love someone forever, they are bound by those words until they are released either by mutual agreement or death of one or the other or both parties. William Raven of 'Deliverance' made such a promise to his lover, Guy de Metz, but when the rumors and pressures of being Guy's lover get to be too much, William runs as far and fast as he can, trying to escape his sins. He eventually joins the Knights of Templar, holy men who defend Christians against the infidels during the Crusades. To become part of this elite group, they make a vow of chastity and, before giving their love to Christ, they are required to declare that no one else has a claim on their hearts. Years later, out in the middle of nowhere, William’s former lover unexpectedly shows up. Guy is older, stronger, and much more determined that the young man William left behind. He's also very angry with William. Needless to say, William is also furious because Guy, the man he sinned with, is in his life again after he has tried so hard to put those transgressions behind him. There's a great deal of conflict between them and they try to avoid each other, seeing Guy stirs up feelings William thought he left behind, causing him even more problems. William starts to remember how it felt to be with Guy and his resolve is weakening, but Guy is not going to let him get away this time without William disavowing his love for him. If he does, Guy will release him; William has a huge decision to make. Does he lie to Guy, tell him that he doesn't love him when he still does and continue on his chosen path to salvation? Or does William find salvation in his love for Guy?

I read a shorter version of this story a few years ago and enjoyed it, but this new, enhanced version has made it even more enjoyable. Aleksandr has fleshed out the characters some by giving more personal history which vastly improved my understanding of the dilemma William and Guy find themselves in, making their experiences more personal. I found it much easier to identify with the characters and wanted even more for them to find a solution. Thanks, Aleksandr, for introducing me to these two proud men and their devotion to each other.

 

 

 

 

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Additional Information

Format	ebook
Length	Short Story, 30 pages
Heat Level
Publication Date	01-April-2015
Price	$2.99 ebook
Buy Link	http://www.amazon.com/Deliverance-Aleksandr-Voinov-ebook/dp/B00TSMIDJ6