I have always love Catherine Coulter and her characters. I think she gives a realistic view and wits about the time period. I love that the heroine Daria is so tough but just cannot help but fall in love with Roland. I admit there were plenty of times that Ive cringed at the things he said to her. He was very mean being that he did not want to marry her and believes that she pregnant by another. He has no choice but to oblige the king and queen suggestion but to make her his wife. But he soon learns that she is like no other with her honesty and spirit. Wow...I finished reading this book in 4 hours.....time well spent. If you like this book ...do try Midnight Star.