Arucard (Brethrens Origins Book 1) by Barbara Devlin delivers a breathtakingly sensual introduction into the Brethren that captivates and entices the heart. This raw, emotionally charged story will challenge you to the depths of your heart. From the moment they meet, Isolde de Tyreswell and Templar Knight Arucard must decide if they can share what they hold near and dear to their hearts. Can these two strangers who are pushed together find comfort in dark times?
Left with uncertainty as to the fate of his Templar brotherhood, Arucard is now a wanted man in France and sets sail for safety in England. Unfortunately, his flight for freedom is filled with obstacles and new challenges. If he is to survive he must agree to leave his past behind, in all ways.
From her family’s point of view, Isolde exists solely to satisfy her father’s sick and twisted political plan, which he expresses it with extreme torture. Looking to achieve greatness, he marries her off to a man that can advance the family.
Arucard thought he’d live a chaste life as a Templar Knight, so when he finds himself ordered to marry, to whom can he turn for advice? Friendships will deepen and loyalty will be tested. This sensually-charged historical romance is bewitching. There is a battle of the heart raging on both sides and families will be splintered.
For those who have been loyal followers and readers of Barbara’s Knights of the Brethren of the Coast series, this book is a must read. While we have been treated to a sprinkle in each of the Brethren books, we now have devoted founding members of the Brethren Fellowship, this gives us a whole saga in one big, delicious gulp. I admit I did a happy dance…and yes, you will too!
While this book can be read as a stand-alone it will enhance the Brethren 
experience transporting you to the 1300’s. Discover how the Knights of the Brethren of the Coast came to be in this 215 page, two-pepper tale. There is just enough sizzle to make you tingle and is most definitely for those 18+.
I received this ARC from the author for a fair and honest review. I hope that you settle into a comfortable chair, as you will find yourself seated there until you are finished. If you dream of knights, castles and sizzle, please drop Barbara a note or tweet to let her know. Well done Barbara!
Author Info:
Bestselling author Barbara Devlin was born a storyteller. A Texan, through and through, Barbara hasn’t been without a book in her possession since she was in kindergarten. She wrote her first short story, a really cheesy murder-mystery, in high school, but it was a Christmas gift, a lovely little diary with a bronze lock, given to her in the fifth grade that truly inspired her love of writing.
After completing part of her undergraduate studies at the University of London, where she developed a love of all things British, Barbara returned home and began a career in banking. But the late 80s weren’t too promising for the financial industry, and every bank that hired Barbara soon folded. So she searched for a stable occupation, and the local police department offered the answer to her prayers.
Initially, Barbara wasn’t too sure about her new career in law enforcement, but she soon came to love being a police officer. And then one uncharacteristically cold and icy day in December 1998, Barbara was struck by a car and pinned against a guardrail while working an accident on a major highway. Permanently disabled, she retired from the police department and devoted her time and energy to physical therapy.
Once Barbara got back on her feet, she focused on a new career in academia. She earned an MA in English and continued a course of study for a Doctorate in Literature and Rhetoric. She happily considered herself an exceedingly eccentric English professor, until success in Indie publishing lured her into writing, full-time, featuring her fictional knighthood, the Brethren of the Coast.
