Loyalty's Web
by Joyce DiPastena

    LOYALTY'S WEB by Joyce DiPastena
    Category:  Historical
    Age Recommendation:  Grades 9+
    Release Date:  10/1/08
    Publisher:  Leatherwood Press
    Reviewed by:  Joan Stradling
    Rating:  5 Stars


    The Earl of Gunthar has been sent by King Henry II of England to assure obedience to the terms of the peace
    treaty with Prince Richard and his rebellious followers. Because eighteen-year-old Heléne de Laurant's father was
    one of Richard's supporters, King Henry believes an arranged marriage between Gunthar and Heléne's sister is the
    only way to assure Laurant's loyalty.

    But loyalties are questioned when several assassination attempts are made on Gunthar's life and are linked to
    people close to the Laurant family. Now, Heléne must try to prove her loved ones' innocence by revealing the true
    killer in their midst.

    As she struggles to unravel the truth, she discovers secrets, blackmail, intrigue, and finds herself drawn into a
    forbidden romance. Heléne becomes tangled in a web of loyalty and is unsure whether to reveal the secrets of
    loved ones or keep quiet and risk losing the man she loves.

    DiPastena has woven a wonderful tale set in twelfth-century France. Full of action, romance, and conspiracy,
    LOYALTY'S WEB drew me in and held me as I traversed the maze of twists and turns to the very last page. I
    believe this sweet romance with ingenious plot twists will appeal to both adults and teens.

    It was my pleasure to be ensnared in LOYALTY'S WEB, and I look forward to DiPastena's next novel,
    ILLUMINATIONS OF THE HEART.