He is the lord of the manor...

Gilles is a powerful baron, used to getting what he wants, when he wants it--until he meets Emma, a humble weaver. From the instant he passes judgment on her in his manor court, he's as captivated as if she has woven a magic spell around him. Is it merely lust for a younger woman he feels? Or has he finally found love?

She is the lady of his heart...

Emma is bound to protect her daughter, but her weaving barely keeps them alive. Should she accept Gilles's protection, though it means placing herself within reach of a man she fears? And will Gilles defend her once he discovers who fathered her child?

Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength fails.
          -- Psalms 71:9

LORD OF THE KEEP is " . . . a story of lust, greed, jealousy, tenderness, forgiveness and love. The plot never stagnates for there are many facets running in many directions. The story doesn't read like a Sunday drive; it is an obstacle course from beginning to end."

"Ms. Lawrence brings a maturity to LORD OF THE KEEP that I, until now, was unaware was missing from recent books I've read. The portrait of awareness drawn between the hero and heroine is clear. Their emotions seep into the readers, rendering it impossible to put the book down until the discord is resolved. Disappointment does not follow any reader of this tale."

--Missy Frye, Writers Club Romance Board

Rating 5 Bells

"Ann Lawrence delivers a story filled with excitement that has so many twists and turns it will keep you entertained to the end. The author writes so expressively about the days of old that you will feel you are living among her cast of characters. . . LORD OF THE KEEP is a medieval reader's dream that offers strong lead characters, a memorable romance, steamy sensuality and enough adventure to keep you spellbound - a definite keeper."

--Carol Carter, Reviewer for Bell Book and Candle

"Ms. Lawrence has created some very beautiful word pictures that I don't think I will ever forget. I am just hoping to see more books spin off from this enthralling story that also depicts everyday medieval life so you feel as if you are there sharing in what is going on. What an adventure! I highly recommend this fast-paced, well-written story that has a sensual twist that makes it extra special and it sparkles with unexpected sizzle."

"Ms. Lawrence is definitely one author to watch as she goes up the spiral staircase to romance heaven."

"Ann Lawrence has penned a thrilling and unusual novel in LORD OF THE KEEP. This book is not a standard romance by any means. No light and fluffy stuff in this book. It is filled with the flavor of the medieval era. This well-detailed plot paired with the excellent historical details and characterizations makes LORD OF THE KEEP a definite keeper in my opinion."

"Ann Lawrence steps forward with a compelling dream man who fits ideally into Love Spell's "Perfect Heroes" series. When Emma's greedy uncle demands she be forced to name the father of her illegitimate child, instead of being embarrassed, Emma persuades Lord Gilles to send her home. She claims she isn't with child and refuses to disclose the potential father but doesn't deny she had a lover. Gilles agrees. When Emma next hurtles into Lord Gilles' life, it's with a babe in her arms and a fever on her brow. He nurses her back to health and offers his protection. But as their lovemaking turns to deeper and deeper affection, a relationship seems impossible. She is a fallen woman and he a ruler. But mere traditions and social codes can't keep these two apart.

Lawrence weaves a dazzling, sizzling page-turner. "Lord of the Keep" will capture your heart and quench your thirst for a satisfying romance."

"I loved LORD OF THE KEEP and found it impossible to put down. This fast paced story is so full of action that you must keep turning the pages to see what will happen next. The characters are wonderful and little Angelique will steal your heart as surely as she did that of Gilles. This is a very sensual story with wonderful love scenes. It is fitting that LORD OF THE KEEP is part of Love Spell's "Perfect Heroes" series as that is what Gilles d'Argent is; the perfect hero. I am keeping my fingers crossed and hoping there will be a sequel to this book. I would like to read more about Gabriel d' Anjou and his betrothed Michelle d' Ambray. Ann Lawrence has become an automatic buy for me and I look forward to reading future works by her."

"This is a far better read than the back cover blurb led me to believe. LORD OF THE KEEP is a historical romance with a difference--a difference that is intriguing, believable, and the essence of the story of a well-researched tale that begins in 1190."

"The major characters are remarkably well conceived, flawed, worn by life, and somehow admirable. The lesser characters are also well done--and one especially is a man who will never make the Perfect Hero list. The plot is circuitous, deceptive, and involved. The love between the hero and heroine evolves naturally and heats up as it evolves. This is a great read by a writer who continues to deal in excellence."

"Ms. Lawrence has written a highly sensual tale of love, betrayal and redemption filled with exciting plot twists and interesting characters. Once started, this book was hard to put down."

"LORD OF THE KEEP is a well crafted and enthralling novel filled with dark secrets, intrigue, betrayal and characters that tear at your heart-strings. Dialogue is mature and realistic, as are the hero and heroine and secondary characters. This is a fast paced novel filled with suspenseful twists that keep the story flowing and the pages turning. Ms. Lawrence's descriptive prose paints a vivid picture of life and times in medieval England.

Ann Lawrence is a welcome, exciting new voice in the world of medieval romance fiction."

"Ann Lawrence weaves a tale as fine and rich as an ancient tapestry, interwoven with golden romance and black-hearted deeds that lend depth and texture to a complex plot. The deft handling of the May/December affair touches the heart, garners empathy, and brings understanding to a situation that might, in lesser hands, become maudlin and saccharine. Ms. Lawrence's stroke of melodrama adds zest and excitement, as well as a creative touch that imbues the plot with heightened suspense. Sensual and passionate, the love story between Emma and Gilles bursts into romantic flames, burning away all objections and restrains, leaving only the smoldering ashes of true love."

"I was enchanted by this sweet story, by Gilles and Emma, Sarah and Roland, and other secondary characters, as well as the story as a whole. Even Sir William is a complex villain, who causes some complicated plot twists. I liked the fact that Gilles, a great warrior and Lord of the Keep, was nonetheless insecure in his appeal due as compared to younger men, while Emma never gave this fact the least thought. Lord of the Keep is a wonderful tale, which I strongly recommend. Ann Lawrence is obviously a new author to watch. Enjoy!"