Always

I read this story a few years ago, then stuck it on my home library shelf and forgot all about it. I found it on my shelf and decided to reread it so I could give it a star rating and short review in my library directory. (I use the directory to keep from re-buying books I already own, and to help me remember which authors I'd like to read more books from.) I now know why absolutely none of this story was memorable. It is basically a circle of unexciting events repeating themselves.

The hero is unreasonably jealous and constantly shouting/bellowing/losing his temper for no reason. The heroine at first seemed sweet and innocent, but about half-way through the book she became thoroughly too stupid to live. She had no common sense, no capacity for learning from past mistakes and experiences, and no sense of self preservation. (Gee... there might be someone hiding in the loft who has been trying to kill me. There are men right outside who would come and help me if I asked them to, but why do that when I can climb up this latter and see for myself... Someone tried to stab me in my bed the other night, but I'm sure it was just a silly misunderstanding because I'm so sweet no one would want to hurt me.) This sort of thing went on and on. She ignored the warnings of a bull keeper and her husband, climbing right into a bull pen with the angry beast. (Again, she was sure the bull wouldn't hurt her. She'd make friends with him because she "had a away with animals".) She wandered out into the woods alone even after it was apparent that someone in their company was trying to kill her. It got to the point where I was wishing the killer would put her out of MY misery.

The characters were bad enough to warrant a 1 star rating, but the author was very funny in beginning of the book. That bumped it up to 2.

I've always loved Lynsay Sands books and will continue to read them however I must say this has not been one of her better books. This was a story that could have been much more gripping if some of the early dialogue wasn't quite so ridiculous. This is not what I've come to expect from Lynsay and hopefully it's a one off. I still found it enjoyable once I got past the first few chapters.
Don't judge this author on the one book, she is a good author.

This was unbelievably funny. Laugh out loud, hold your stomach laughing. A horse with a cold dressed in cape, stockings, hat, pants and shirts stuck in bedroom while having gas. And a nun describing marital relations to young bride. There was also teary moments. Seriously, it's a tender love story told with humor and a little intrigue that I did not want to end. I bought this book at another site before I discovered the store. I loved this book. I hope you buy this here. For me, I much prefer reading on my Kindle app. This book is great !

Originally reviewed for www.buriedunderromance.com
ALWAYS, the newest novel by best-selling author Lynsay Sands, is a delightful tale of two mismatched people forced to marry under unusual circumstances. This is the first book by Ms. Sands that I’ve had the pleasure to read, and it truly was a pleasure, a five star pleasure.
Rosamunde, the illegitimate daughter of King Henry, was raised in a convent where it was her job to take care of the animals in the stables. She was educated by the nuns, and was planning to take her vows to join them when her father suddenly arrived, insisting that she marry one of his knights, Aric Burkhart, that very afternoon. Both Rosamunde and Aric are confused but feel they are unable to say no to the king. They marry, and after a very awkward introduction to the physical side of marriage dictated by the king, they set off to a far off estate that the king has provided for them.
To give away anymore of this wonderful story to the readers would cheat them out of enjoying the romance, the awkwardness, the suspense, the joy and the comedy that takes place as they set out on their journey, not only to their new home, but to get to know each other and learn what it means to love someone and be married, especially when thrown into the situation against their wishes. The two main characters are very likeable as they plod their way through unknown territory, both literally and figuratively. Not only did I find myself cheering for this unlikely pair, I also found myself laughing out loud on many occasions
The plot is complex, with many twists and turns to keep the readers guessing. When we finally arrive at the very satisfying conclusion, there is the feeling of having been on a very exciting rollercoaster.
If ALWAYS is the standard for a Lynsay Sands novel, I can’t wait for the next one!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

I have been in a funk lately and just couldn't find any historical romance reads that would keep my attention for very long. I picked a copy of Always by Lynsay Sands and it was just what the doctor ordered. I love that whenever I see Lynsay Sands name on the cover of a book I know it is going to make me laugh and fall in love and Always did just that.

The relationship between Rosamunde and Aric is a little tension filled at first. Aric was betrayed by his last love, so he has trouble trusting women and keeping her wedding vow promise to obey her husband becomes more and more difficult for Rosamunde. What she was told to expect in the marital bed by one of the nuns from the convent.. had me laughing so hard tears were streaming down my face. The connection these two shared was always there, but as they spend more time together it becomes a beautiful bond. This story has lots of humor (ie: a war horse with a cold wearing Aric's cape..-you need to read this for the full story) which is always a plus for me. I found myself quickly invested in this story and I turned the last page with a smile on my face. I am a sucker for a good happily ever after and it the ending was perfect!

I gave Always 5 STARS! If you are looking for a heartwarming story with humor, love and some heat pick up Always by Lynsay Sands, she never disappoints!

***This book was provided by the publisher for an honest review***

I must say after my introduction to Lyndsay Sands last year, I have become a fast fan. Diligently pulling my vampire paperbacks from my books piles and grabbing any and every historical romance novel she wrote handy.

As a lover of historical romance novels by Hannah Howell, Karen Marie Moning and Benda Joyce, I appreciate the humor, the time speak and frankly enjoy the period where life was simplier.

In this novel King Henry rushed to the convent where his illegitimate daughter was being safely raised to marry her off to a newly burned Lord. He always liked Lord Aric for his daughter but he was promised to another. When the news spread that Lord Aric's betrothed was caught in an uncompromising position he snatched him from his cups to wed his daughter that night.

You see evil was afoot and the King needed a strong Lord to keep his daughter safe. What he didn't realize was that living with nuns his daughter knew nothing of being a wife and Lord Aric was not ready to wed so soon after being burned.

Twist and turns and this and that made the tale all the more exciting. I really don't like a predictable love story and this one was pretty humorous and NOT PREDICTABLE AT ALL!! I totally didn't see it coming!!

I enjoyed yet another great novel from Lyndsay Sands. I can't wait for my next!!4 stars and a tip of my Nerd Girl Hat!!!

*This review was done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official

Always by Lynsay Sands is one of her Leisure historical romance books, and it is terrific! It has everything. Some very humorous moments, a great romance between two likeable characters, steamy scenes, and a cute story. Aric of Burhart vows never to marry after he catches his fiance with another man. But King Henry has other ideas. He selects Aric as the man to wed his daughter, Rosamunde. Rosamunde's mother was the King's mistress, and after her mother died, she was raised by nuns.

Rosamunde is very naive about men because of being raised by nuns, and she is naive about what takes place in the marriage bed. And this makes for some of the funniest moments in the book. Rosamunde is also most comfortable tending to sick and wounded animals, and she is not sure what to do as Aric's wife. Aric is taken with his new beautiful wife, but he has trust issues that he has to work through. He doesn't want her to cheat on him so he tries to limit her freedom. Plus, on top of that someone is trying to hurt Rosamunde (which is pretty much a given for the heroine in a Lysany Sands historical).

This is probably my favorite Lysany Sands historical, but truthfully, most of them are good. I highly recommend this book to lovers of historical romance. It is a keeper!! 5 star!!

You've gotta love the lengths to which Rosamunde will go to not "disobey" her new husband. Being that "to obey" is a pretty important wedding vow, and we all know how men feel about being obeyed.....
Once again Sands delivers a charming and bright story about two who go through some interesting changes in order to become one. Aric has just enough stubborness so that we're sure he's all man, but put the threat of being drawn and quartered on his plate and...... Well, he's no dummy. And what can we say about Rosamunde? Sweet, intelligient, easy to get along with, undercover rebel (that kinda thing happens when you're raised in a convent) and well schooled in the art of mating. Animal mating, that is. Makes for some interesting lovemaking, you think? Enough said about that.
I don't know how Ms. Sands keeps coming up with these great stories; I'm just glad she does. It's always such a pleasure to be surprised, amused by and truly interested in the characters.

Always is my first Lynsay Sands book and after enjoying the humor and the romance, I'll be going back for more soon. No doubt.

This book was hilarious. Like, unexpectedly laugh out loud hilarious. Sure, some of the scenes were probably a little over the top, but I still enjoyed them. The matchup between the innocent, about to be a nun Rosamunde and Aric, who had had his fair share of lovers, was more perfect than I could have imagined. I enjoyed watching them get to know each other. Rosamunde was a great heroine and I loved watching her come into her own, not only finding something real with Aric, but learning more about herself along the way. It was fun to watch Aric submit to his growing, and semi-unwanted, feelings towards her.

While Always was predictable and sometimes over the top, I had a good time reading it. It was funny and held my interest. The romance was sweet. The characters were believable. It might not be one that sticks with me for a long time, but I definitely enjoyed it and look forward to reading more of Lynsay's books in the future.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review.

Always has a good dose of Lynsay Sand's warm humor but it was not as good as The Deed or The Key.
The hero, Eric, has caught his fiance cheating on him. While he is stewing over her infedelity, the king pays him a visit. Upon learning of his broken engagement, he commands Eric to marry his illegimate daughter, Rosalind. Eric will receive a profitable estate upon the marriage.
Rosalind has grown up in a small convent. She is happy among the sisters and expects to take her vows and become a nun. Her father arrives and quickly puts an end to that plan. He talks his beloved daughter into the marriage and makes her swear she will obey him always.
It was a cute, humorous story, but I thought Eric took his mistrust of women out on the heroine and made her a prisoner of his insecurities. He was pretty mean to her to her for more than half the story.I think forbidding her near the stables or out of the castle was bordering on cruel. Especially when working with animals was something the heroine loved doing. But the heroine reacts in a way that will guarantee to bring a chuckle out of just about anyone. So read and enjoy.

After catching his betrothed Delia in the arms of another man, Aric of Burkhart drowns his sorrows in the company of his trusted friend, Robert of Shambley. Well into his cups, he is in the middle of condemning all women, vowing to never marry even under the threat of torture when a cloaked man suddenly appears and asks him if he would still keep his vow under the threat of death. Outraged by the man's audacity, he turns around only to find himself faced with his liege, King Henry II. Adding to his shock, the king wastes no time in announcing his intention to marry off his illegitimate but beloved daughter, Rosamunde, in order to protect her from possible danger with his throne currently under threat from his own sons' betrayal. And he declares his choice of husband for her to be Aric. Fearful of being drawn and quartered, Aric reluctantly obeys the king and they immediately ride off to the abbey where Rosamunde has lived since she was born. As fate would have it, they arrive in the abbey just in time for Rosamunde was about to take the veil the very next day. Now out of love for her father, Rosamunde obediently accepts her father's request for her to marry Aric.

What follows is a hilarious beginning to their marriage. Having grown up in the company of nuns, Rosamunde has no idea what takes place in the marriage bed and briefly gets a crash lesson from Sister Eustice. After exchanging vows, King Henry orders them to consummate the marriage to ensure that it cannot be annulled, locks the two up in Rosamunde's small bedchamber and gives them a few minutes to get the deed done. What occurs is one of the most hilarious love scenes (if one can call it that) I have ever read. Due to ignorance, Rosamunde does and say some funny things that shock Aric! And the hilarity doesn't end there but continues all the way to their trip home to Goodhall Keep.

Although some things were pretty far-fetched, you won't be able to help but laugh. Initially, Rosamunde comes across as a bit dense, but it is understandable because you do see how torn she is trying to hold true to the vow she's made to God and her father to obey her husband, and also the need to put Aric in his place when he becomes too stubborn and arrogant. As for Aric, even when he acts like a real jerk sometimes, it is amusing to see him struggle to suppress his feelings for Rosamunde and his ever-growing concern for her happiness and safety.

Fun and entertaining, ALWAYS is a nice way to spend a leisurely afternoon when you're after a light-hearted read.

Oh my what a book! I first picked up the book because i love it when the heroines are not just innocent but also innocent of how the act of love is performed. Rosamunde has been raised in a convent all her life and when her father the King brings her intended husband to wed her she asked her fellow nuns what will be expected of her. Well the way they explain lovemaking to her made me laugh so hard I cried. And then when she's finally alone with her husband who under the time conditions placed upon him by his King cannot take the time to really teach her the art of love making, she endears herself to all the readers. Soon though she does learn from her husband and he is delighted to find her a willing and apt pupil. He is very jealous of any males coming near her and has to learn the hard way that she really has no intention or desire to be anything but his. She tries his patience and it makes for an exciting book. I can't wait to read Lynsay Sands other books.

I must agree with the much earlier review from Alyce in Wonderland. She was spot on with her evaluation and comments. I should have been wary of this book and passed it over for something better. This book contained some welcome humor however, the main characters Rosamunde and Aric, bumbled around as if they possessed a total IQ of 10. I never could identify nor appreciate either of them. I did enjoyed the best friend, and Aric's Father. Those characters were the only glimmer of light as we traveled down a very, very long dark hallway which led to a very empty room. Since I make my purchases based on customer reviews I admit I made a mistake with this one. I've read many other books by this author and I suggest you move on and away from this one. There are plenty of other stories out there that will entertain and amuse you much more, this one fails miserably.

This is my first Lynsay Sands novel and it will not be my last.Always is a novel tat has it all: Humor, romance and Mystery.The parts of the story with Aric and Rosamude's wedding night as well asAric trying to teach his wife to enjoy the " Matial Bed" are priceless.The real humor however, is when Rosamude dressed Aric's horse up in his clothes by the fire in the Keep to help the animal get over a cold. I laughed s hard people on the bus were looking at me.Although these two people did not start out loving each other the relationship and the love was so much fun to read. Learning about themselves and learning to trust easc other was wonderful.The novel also contained a little myster, Who killed Rosamude's mother and why issomeone trying to kill her is a question that takes center stage is the later part of this book.This book is one I will read over and over again.Great love stories never grow tried.

***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***

Always by Lynsay Sands
Publisher: Avon
Publication Date: November 24, 2015
Rating: 2 stars
Source: eARC from Edelweiss

***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***

Summary (from Goodreads):

New York Times bestselling author Lynsay Sands returns with the unforgettable story of a reluctant bride and groom who soon find common ground in the bedroom . . .

Bastard daughter to the king, Rosamunde was raised in a convent and wholly prepared to take the veil . . . until King Henry declared she would wed Aric, one of his most valiant knights. Suddenly she found herself promising to love, honor, and obey.

Rosamunde's education had not covered a wedding night, but the handsome warrior she was now bound to seemed intent on giving her a lesson in the art of pleasure. In no time, Aric was certain she would surrender to the irresistible passion he promised.

And while Rosamunde's spirited nature often put her at odds with her new husband, his mastery in seduction was quickly melting her resolve—and capturing her heart.

What I Liked:

I know two stars isn't the worst rating ever, but I am SO SAD that I didn't like this one more. I know I really wanted to love this book, going into it. The cover is amazing, the premise sounds so wonderful, and I love Lynsay Sands - but this book wasn't that good, or close. So disappointed!

Aric, knight of King Henry, is determined never to marry, after he finds his betrothed with another man in the stables. But he can't say no to the King when King Henry orders him to marry his illegitimate daughter, Rosamunde. Rosamunde grew up in a convent, caring for animals. She is sweet and naive, and very, very misguided. Marriage to someone who who was prepared to be a bride of God, who is afraid of marital relations, who doesn't want to be married, is not what Aric had in mind. But Aric and Rosamunde can't help the potent attraction between the two of them, nor their budding feelings. Can they start over before it's too late?

Things I did like. Let's see, From the start, I LOVED Aric. His voice is hilarious! He is calm and the silent brooding type, but he also has a temper and can be very grumpy. Apparently I like the grumpy types? He marries Rosamunde and treats her well (in my opinion), and he isn't terribly demanding or forceful or anything like that. She could have done much worse and could have been even a little bit more grateful. Aric is one of my favorite historical romance heroes for the year. Too bad he got paired with... Rosamunde.

What else did I enjoy... well, if there is one thing that Sands can do REALLY well, it is write hot intimate scenes! This book was odd in that Rosamunde had no idea what marital relations consisted of, so the first time was really awkward. The second time was comical. But when Aric started to show her how it's done... the scenes were really hot. I'm sure any and all of Sands' romance novels are really, really steamy. She ever disappoints, in that area!

There was a satisfying ending, as one might come to expect, in historical romance novels. I liked the ending. I also liked how much comedy and humor was in this book, despite the ominous climax. Still, everything leading up to the ending was interesting, and the ending was a good one.

What I Did Not Like:

I think the heart of my problems with this book were with Rosamunde. I have been having an issue with female protagonists, in the past few books I've read (YA, adult, doesn't matter). With Rosamunde, I couldn't stand her naivete. I understand that she was raised in a convent, so I knew and understood that she would be ignorant in some matters, but goodness, she was so air-headed!

Air-headed is a good way to put it. She's also a bit selfish, expecting special treatment at some times, but then expecting everyone to let her do her own thing because that's how she was raised in the convent. No honey, you're married now. I don't think she ever fully grasped the fact that she's married, and her husband is trying to protect her from people who are trying to kill her.

That being said, she never gave a thought or care to Aric and his protection of her. She did anything and everything she wanted, no matter how irrationally it was. I don't want to give specific examples, but trust me, you probably would have wanted to kill her yourself by the halfway through the book. She does so many selfish things, and then turns around and blames Aric, gets mad at Aric, makes it seem like Aric's anger is misplaced.

And then Aric goes and forgives her every time. I personally think that if I were Aric and married to her, I would have sent her back to the abbey after one night, the King's wishes be d***ed. Ahhh! It's so frustrating, how awful of a character Rosamunde was!

She's one of those people that don't deserve the man, who deserves to be alone or dead or both. I wanted to shake her! Even for a historical romance novel, how can she be that dumb and ignorant?!

So all of my frustration is centered around Rosamunde. Which sucks! I liked her until she opened her mouth at the abbey when the King brought Aric to marry her - and that was like, 10% in. Le sigh.

Would I Recommend It:

I can't recommend this novel. I really, really wanted to love it, because it sounded perfect for me (reluctant marriage usually works for me!), I like Lynsay Sands, and the cover is GORGEOUS. Now I refuse to buy this book in print because I didn't like it! Ugh!

Rating:

2.5 stars -> rounded down to 2 stars. I'll definitely keep reading Sands' books, she is a great romance writer and always writes steamy chemistry in her books. But this one was such a disappointment. I had hoped for something so much better!

Anyone who enjoys old England will find this romance a fun read. There was mystery as well as some pretty funny situations. I found myself laughing out loud at some passages. Lots of hot romance, as well.

This is more of a stand alone novel than most of her other books. Still, the heroine is feisty and the hero brave but flawed. You have heard this story before but it is a pleasant diversion for a couple of hours because both characters are believable and interesting to be around.

I loved this book, from beginning to end, with a nit or two. I know others have reviewed this book pretty much as I would, so I'll not repeat what they've all said. Hilarious consummation, romantic love scenes, funny conversations between husband and wife. Loved it!

My nit is basically with Rosamunde's lack of sense about the danger she was in. No matter what happened, she rationalized it. It was rather annoying.

All in all, it wasn't boring at any point, so I enjoyed it the entire time.

I'm not sure how to review this book without giving away spoilers but I'll give it a shot. This book has a little of everything. It addresses the historical church's stance on marital relations (and how to get around them). There's as much character, warmth, and humor given to the four legged animals as there is to the main characters. I'm not sure anything will ever top the fierce guard horse Blackie though. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a fun read, fans of historical romance, fans of Lynsay Sands.

I loved this book, from beginning to end, with a nit or two. I know others have reviewed this book pretty much as I would, so I'll not repeat what they've all said. Hilarious consummation, romantic love scenes, funny conversations between husband and wife. Loved it!

My nit is basically with Rosamunde's lack of sense about the danger she was in. No matter what happened, she rationalized it. It was rather annoying.

All in all, it wasn't boring at any point, so I enjoyed it the entire time.

This cute little romance reads quickly. It seemed the plot was Aric getting over his distrust & jealousy more than either of them being in danger. Lots to spice the storyline: her work with animals, everybody trying to keep Aric from flying into a rage, and debates over what sexual acts are sinful -- LS creates constant amusement for her readers.

I really enjoyed this book! The author could have gotten a little more involved in the character's emotions, instead of just the top ones (lust, anger, etc.), but it was very well done and funny nontheless!
Rosamunde was raised in a convent, expecting to become a nun. The day before she takes her vows however, her father shows up with a slightly reluctant husband. She takes this in hand however, intending to make the best of it. But having nothing to go on for info on a wedding night but " It is just like the farm animals" gets her highly embarresesed when her new husband Aric teachs her otherwise!!
When attacks on the couple's lives start, the hasty marriage grows into true love as each one realizes how empty their lives would be without each other.

THE BEST romance I have EVER read! I laughed and smiled all the way through it! This is the first book by Lynsay Sands I have read, so I am anxious to read more from her. I could not put this book down. I love the characters Aric and Rosemunde, she is absolutely DELIGHTFUL, and Aric has a charming temper, yes... charmimg! I laughed at her antics and at his response to her antics! I'm smiling as a type this remembering. The story is weaved so well and carries you through from one delight to the next. I agree with the other post, the deflowering was hysterical! Rosemunde's ignorance of what goes on in the marriage bed was charming and sweet, besides being rib-tickling funny! A DEFINITE buy and a DEFINITE KEEPER. Thank you Ms. Sands!

A great book.I love that it contains a lot of humor. the hard road the couple embarks as a married couple, when they truly strangers to begin with, then to see love creep up to take hold in their hearts .I think the writer is really great but this is my first book of this author I read.

"Always" definitely had it's moments...and I cant deny that some of it was outrageously amusing...I think the thing that bothered me most was how bossy Aric was...not to mention how Wimpy Rosamunde was made out to be....This book was fun, but dragged...I wouldnt dissuade one from reading it, but I wouldnt recommend it either.

I luved the fact the heroin was a married girl who was deflowered by and went a romp WITH her spouse! How cool is that??
Women who find that boring will HATE this book.. but someone who reads this to enhance her marital, the books rocks! I can fantasize its me and the Hubby without feeling guilty. ;D

This book has romance, comedy, struggle, everything. I enjoyed reading this book immensly. There were times I woke my husband up from laughing so hard. This book was so good I bought Lady Pirate and Sweet Revenge just to see if this was a one hit wonder. Ms. Sands is a talented author based on the three books I have read. This does not follow your typical romance novel. I would suggest it to anyone who wants something worth reading. BUY IT! KEEP IT! RE-READ IT! It is GREAT!!!

The character of Rosamunde was one of my favorites. She is joined to Aric in marriage by her father the King. Aric, betrayed with unfaithfulness by his former betrothed fears every woman will be the same. When they come together to consummate the marriage, it is the funniest thing I have read in a long time. Rosamunde is a gifted healer of animals and what she does to their home to take care of these animals is also histerical. In the end, Rosamunde teaches Aric how to trust and to love. It has a little mystery also to go with it. Very entertaining story.

This book was such a wonderful surprise- I really enjoyed it and will read all her other books. Some parts of this book made me laugh out loud they were so funny. The romance was also very enjoyable-The romance scenes were just hot enough-I like a little spice and there was enough in this book along with a story to keep you interested. I really liked Rosamunde she was a wonderful lead character and Aric was just perfect for her-Just enough tension -I highly recommend this book

do not waste your money. I normally love Lyndsey Sands but this book was painful to read. theze two characters were too stupid to live. she should have knocked them off early and gone on to something more entertaining

I have read every one of Lynsay Sands books and "Always" is by far my favorite. Of course I love all of her books tremendously. Her characters are comical. Her plots draw you into the story and keep you entertained. I have just recently finished her new one "The Brat". Another charmingly funny read. I reccomend all her books, although I am partial to her historical romances. If you can read this book without laughing out loud you need your funny bone checked!

loved it. The first two chapters were a little weird to start with and i was very much tempted to leave it alone.Glad i kept reading. The humour is hilarious ,laugh out loud.I had tears in my eyes at one point..

Don't miss it for a truly relaxing read and some steamy scenes thrown in! ;)