So Speaks The Heart
By Johanna Lindsey

     Lady Brigitte de Louroux is at the mercy of a vicious and greedy woman when her brother is killed in battle. Druoda plans to marry her off to a man who will abuse her, and Brigitte flees the home of her youth to go the safety of her guardian, but her goal to attain safety goes awry when a knight of war-a man who will not listen to reason-captures her.

       Rowland of Montville is on a mission of mercy. His vow to the man who saved his life takes him to Louroux. He plans to stop just long enough to deliver a message to the lady of the Castle. He is forestalled when he finds a beautiful maiden. Her avowals that she is not a servant meet with disbelief, and he returns her to her rightful owner.

     Brigitte is beaten badly for her sins, and her situation worsens when Rowland believes her to be the maid Druoda promises him for companionship. She passes out from pain, as does the gallant knight from drink. The morning after brings repercussions for both. Brigitte is given to Rowland and her life of servitude begins, and Rowland is saddled with a serf who does not know her place.

      Ms. Lindsey's books always rock with passion, flair for details, and layered plots. Her medieval works are outstanding and she expands her talent in So Speaks The Heart, as Rowland and Brigitte find that lies, distrust, and misunderstandings make their path to happiness, an exercise in patience, and finally love.