Sharon Key Penman’s A KING’S RANSOM – The Rest of Lionheart’s Story…

 

This is a well-researched, well-told story of King Richard I after he went on crusade. Returning to France with the best of his faithful men, he moves to take back what the French king took from him while he was gone. Taken captive by the Holy Roman Emperor in violation of the papal decree protecting all crusaders, Richard spends fifteen months chained in a dungeon and imprisoned in Germany while his mother Eleanor of Aquitaine moves heaven and earth to raise the exorbitant ransom. And what a woman!

 

I love how Penman adds fiction to the real story to bring it alive for the reader. The characters will draw you into their lives. Richard emerges, as in Lionheart, as a hero with no equal. For the five years remaining to him, he faces betrayals, intrigues, wars, and illness. His marriage never seemed to be what he or his wife might have wanted and she produced no children. But you will see why the courage, compassion, and intelligence of Richard became the stuff of legend.

 

Highly recommended but start with Lionheart.

 

Sharon Kay Penman’s LIONHEART – Superb Storytelling brings the King Richard’s Crusade to Life

Set in the 12^th century, this begins as the story of Alicia, whose brother, a Templar Knight, is killed in a boating accident on the way to the Holy Land. But Joanna, wife of William de Hauteville, King of Sicily, takes her to Palermo where Alicia thrives under Joanna’s care and the Sicilian sun. And, from there, they join the Crusade led by Joanna’s brother, Richard.

 

Richard, called the Lionheart, the eldest son of Henry Plantagenet and Eleanor of Aquitaine, is a larger than life character as he leads the Third Crusade to free Jerusalem. Penman does a superb job of showing us this man who men followed without question, whose courage led him into the fray time and time again. And she shows us all the disagreements among the Christians and the French king’s betrayal in the campaign against the Saracens.

 

It’s a very exciting and complex story that will draw you in. Based on much research with incredible detail, historical fiction lovers will revel in it. There is also a love story as King Richard marries and takes his new wife and his sister with him to the Holy Land. So there is a woman’s perspective contributing to the story. I loved it so much I then began to read the next in the series, A King’s Ransom.

 

Highly recommended.

 

Grace Ingram’s RED ADAM’S LADY – Medieval Romance with a Likeable Hero and a Strong Heroine

Set in the 12^th century, during the reign of Henry II when “the young king” was aspiring to usurp his father’s throne, this is the story of Lady Julitta, a young lady without dower and seemingly without prospects until she encounters Red Adam, lord of Brentborough. Red Adam, so called for his red hair, in a drunken state, takes her for a tavern wench and decides to take her back to his bed chamber and show her a good time. He doesn’t seem to understand she is a virtuous lady who will not be trifled with. So she bangs him over the head with a wooden stool, keeping her virginity. But since he has “ruined” her in the eyes of all, he does the right thing and marries her.

 

Red Adam, a likeable guy, is loyal to the king and won’t hear of plots to take him down, thus drawing the ire and vengeance of his enemies. And once he weds the smart and savvy Julietta, he becomes the perfect gentleman.

 

The introduction by Elizabeth Chadwick might suggest this is historical fiction. It’s not, nor is it comparable to Chadwick’s work. This is romance, albeit good historical romance. It’s a story of civil war in England, of border raids by villainous Scots, scheming plans of aristocrats and daring escapes across the moors. There is lots of blood and guts; it’s not for the squeamish. And sometimes I had to read a sentence twice to get what she was trying to convey. Still, it’s a fast paced tale based on considerable research for historical details. I really enjoyed it.

 

 

Sharon Kay Penman’s TIME AND CHANCE – The Love Affair of Eleanor of Aquitaine and Henry II brought to life!

The story in When Christ and His Saints Slept continues with the story of Eleanor of Aquitaine and Henry II. It’s a captivating tale set in the 12th century, a story of a wonderful woman and a king who was often distracted by affairs of his kingdom and his mistress and not careful to let his wife know how she was valued. For that, he would pay a price.

It began with Thomas Becket, Henry’s closest confidant, who he elevated to be Archbishop of Canterbury. It ended with a perceived betrayal that made a royal murder seem inevitable. Along the way were enough scheming, seductions, and scandals to topple any kingdom but their own.

Penman weaves an intricate story that will draw you in with great attention to historic detail, making up for gaps in the historic record with wonderful fiction. Ranulf, Henry’s fictional uncle, returns to show us life in Wales, which I loved. There are some dark moments with the murder of an archbishop and a Welsh prince. The ending is clearly a transport to book 3 so it leaves many questions unanswered.

The Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine Trilogy:

When Christ and His Saints Slept

Time and Chance

Devil’s Brood

Sharon Kay Penman’s WHEN CHRIST AND HIS SAINTS SLEPT – History of 12th Century England Brought to Life

This story of England and France in the time of the Civil War between Stephen and the Empress Maude begins in 1135 A.D. and continues to 1154 A.D. As King Henry I dies, his barons faced the unwelcome prospect of being ruled either by Henry's beautiful daughter, Maude, Countess of Anjou, or her cousin Stephen, a great battle commander but a weak statesman. The Civil War that resulted from their struggle for the Crown was to wreak havoc on England and the lives of the common people as barons switched sides time and again.

Penman's novel is like diving into that time in the past. Most of the characters are real and those who are fictional will seem real to the reader. She weaves a splendid tapestry of medieval life and tragedy, even as the way is prepared for Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine and the Plantagenets. There is more than one romance in this story and all are well told.

Long at 738 pages, one has to love the history to linger so long in a novel. It seemed to me to get more exciting and more interesting as it went along, especially when young Henry fitz Empress shows up and we meet the delightful, smart and beautiful Eleanor of Aquitaine. Recommended for the lover of historical fiction (which I am).

The Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine series:

When Christ and His Saints Slept

Time and Chance

Devil’s Brood

Elizabeth Chadwick’s THE GREATEST KNIGHT – Splendid Story of a Historical Knight and his Lady Love in the time of the Plantagenets

This is the second in the William Marshall series (see list below). Set in the 12^th century, it tells the story of William Marshall, a young knight who rose to be the greatest knight on the tourney circuit and the favorite of Eleanor of Aquitaine. Chadwick paints a vivid picture of a man who took advantage of every opportunity and, with honor and commitment, never disappointed. Along the way, he meets his true love, Isabelle de Clare, a countess who made William a magnate. I enjoyed seeing their love develop and the strong woman Isabelle was, admired by her husband. Together, they forge an alliance that withstood the test of time.

I love how Chadwick weaves historical fact with her believable fiction. The characters come alive and the history unfolds all around you. Truly a splendid adventure well told!

The Marshal Novels:

A Place Beyond Courage
The Greatest Knight
The Scarlet Lion
The Time of Singing (The King’s Favor in the US)

To Defy a King

Elizabeth Chadwick’s A PLACE BEYOND COURAGE – Wonderful Medieval Storytelling brings you 12th Century England

October is Medieval month on Historical Romance Review. I’m starting with a deep historical. Set in the twelfth century, beginning in 1130, this is the story of John FitzGilbert, the Marshall for King Henry I, and Sybilla of Salisbury set against the war between King Stephen, who followed Henry I, and Matilda, Henry’s daughter.

When King Henry I dies, and his nephew, Stephen, becomes king, he rewards John with castles and lands. John, it turns out, was a master at organizing everything that made the king’s castles and life run smoothly. And a very powerful man. He was also a brilliant and courageous warrior. But when John’s jealous rivals persuade King Stephen that John is not loyal, he changes allegiances and backs Henry’s daughter, Matilda. In the process, his first marriage is annulled and he is forced to marry Sybilla.

I loved this story. Chadwick brings alive twelfth century England and its warring factions in a rich historical tapestry of well-drawn characters based on solid research. It’s a time in history when both men and women face challenges absent in normal life and where marriage was only a tool of political leaders. Love, if it came at all, was an unexpected boon. And if a man who was a strong leader found a wife of ideas and well thought out opinions, he found a new life. Sometimes a match made for political reasons produced a bond stronger than life.

In this story we also get to see the young William Marshall, son of John and Sybilla, when he is taken hostage by King Stephen. William will become a great knight. (His story is told in The Greatest Knight.)

Get lost in medieval England and enjoy Chadwick’s meticulous storytelling!

Elizabeth Chadwick’s THE SCARLET LION – The Marshal’s Story Continues…

The love story of William Marshal and his wife Isabelle de Clare continues in this sequel to The Greatest Knight. When King Richard dies, his younger brother, John, takes the throne and brings his evil leadership to England. It is not long before William falls out of favor trying to save his lands in Normandy governed by Philip II.

Along the way, we meet the children of William and Isabelle, including the charming Mahelt (Matilda) who Chadwick fits perfectly into a loving family as her father’s favorite daughter and the eldest girl. As a young teenager, she is wed to Hugh Bigod, 3^rd Earl of Norfolk, just as her parents leave for Isabelle’s lands in Ireland. (Mahelt will be the heroine in To Defy a King.)

The history of the 12^th century comes alive in this well-told and exciting story with vivid images, treachery and shifting alliances. William and Isabelle attempt to steer a noble course through a sea of King John’s muck. Like the others in the series, this one is definitely worth reading! Just superb!

The Marshal Novels:

A Place Beyond Courage
The Greatest Knight
The Scarlet Lion
The Time of Singing (The King’s Favor in the US)

To Defy a King

Rexanne Becnel’s THE MAIDEN BRIDE – A Classic Medieval with Treachery!

Set in Wessex in 1135, this is the story of Linnea de Valcourt, the lesser daughter of Maidenstone Castle. The younger of identical twins, her grandmother thought to kill her at birth believing she was cursed. But her mother prevailed and she survived. Now grown and their castle taken over by the de la Manse family, whose castle it originally belong to, Linnea has a chance to save her family. She will take her sister’s place and marry the Norman knight Sir Axton de la Manse. Only the eldest twin could secure his claim to the lands.

Years of exile have made Axton de la Manse the enemy of Linnea’s family but he will marry the daughter of de Valcourt to secure his family’s claim to their ancestral lands. Once they wed and she is carrying the de la Manse heir, no one can dispute his claim to Maidenstone. He didn’t expect to fall in love with the de Valcourt daughter. And then he discovers her treachery.

It was a bit slow-moving at first with a lot of narrative but once the treachery is known, it becomes exciting. If I had one suggestion, it would be have less sex and more action. Still, it’s a good read with enough history of Henry Anjou’s England to make it interesting from that perspective. And, it's a classic!

Elizabeth Chadwick’s THE OUTLAW KNIGHT – A Sweeping Historical Saga and a Captivating Love Story—the real Robin Hood of Legend

Set in medieval England, beginning in 1184, this is the story of Fulke FitzWarin, the oldest son of the FitzWarin Marcher Lords. At age 15, he becomes a squire of Ranulf de Glanville, the Justicar. Fulke’s family is hoping through influence with King Henry and his court to regain Whittingdon Castle in Shropshire, their inheritance lost in the Welsh wars to Roger de Powys.

While acting the squire, Fulke runs afoul of young Prince John’s cruel temper during a game of chess and the two young men become life long enemies. Fulke is removed from court to become a squire to Theobald Walter, a powerful baron. Years later, Fulke becomes a knight just as a young, 12-year-old Maude le Vavasour is betrothed to Theobald, who is three times her age. When Fulke and Maud meet again, she is 16 and being wed to Theobald. Fulke and Maude become enamored with each other, though they avoid each other and remain true to their commitments. In the background lurks Prince John who lusts for the beautiful young woman.

Much happens over the years as we follow the lives of Fulke and Maude. (Fulk III—no “e”—was a real historical figure, who married Maud le Vavasour—again with no “e”—and rebelled against King John from 1201-1203, living in the woods as an outlaw ala Robin Hood. Lest you worry about him (as I did), Fulk III lived into his 90’s, which given his life and the times, was a miracle.)

Chadwick brings the history to life with a richness that makes you feel like you’re living it. It’s a well-told tale with extensive historical detail and vivid pictures of the social and political happenings of the times. Chadwick’s medieval vocabulary, dialog and descriptions reflect considerable research, as do all her novels.

Both Fulke and Maude are compelling characters as well as real historic figures; you want to see them together. He is an honorable man much like the Robin Hood we imagine, and she is an intelligent, spirited young woman just like Maid Marian. It’s a love story that will keep you turning pages. I thought the way Chadwick dealt with the historical figure Clarice de Auberville was brilliant—and believable.

Though Chadwick typically writes historical fiction with romantic elements, there’s enough romance here to satisfy the historical romance lover. I recommend it.

Note: This was first published in the UK as Lords of The White Castle, and follows the FitzWarin family saga begun in Shadows And Strongholds, but it can be read as a stand alone.

Tamara Leigh’s THE YIELDING – Heroine Falsely Accused Struggles to be Believed

Set in mid-12^th century England, this is the story of Lady Beatrix Wulfrith, sister to Garr Wulfrith. She had thought to give her life to the Church when she encounters Lord Michael D’Arci, a man who hates her because he believes she murdered his brother.

Henry is now king and orders that one of Wulfrith’s sisters must marry the baron whose brother died at the hand of the Wulfriths (which took place in book 1, The Unveiling).

Since Beatrix was destined for the Church, it was decided tht Beatrix’s sister would go to the baron, but she does not want the marriage. So, the sisters plan an escape during which Beatrix falls into the hands of Simon D’Arci’s lust. In her attempt to defend her virtue, he falls on a knife and is killed. In the same incident, Beatrix hits her head and the injury affects her speech.

Simon’s brother, Michael, had been falsely accused of rape years earlier, thus he refuses to believe Beatrix’s accusations against his brother. When he finds himself at her mercy and she treats him kindly, he must reexamine his firm convictions.

There’s lots of action in this one, followed by Beatrix’s solitary existence hiding out from Lord D’Arci (which part was slow) and D’Arci’s commitment to revenge (he calls it justice) was a bit over the top at times. In the end, Beatrix tells her story and is believed. While not as good as the first book, it is well written, as always. A great medieval series all in all.

Tamara Leigh’s THE UNVEILING – Superb Medieval Romance!

Set in mid 12th century England, this is the story of Lady Annyn Bretanne, who lives for revenge on the man she believes hanged her brother and then lied about it, Garr, Baron Wulfrith. Wulfrith, as most call him, is known for the training of knights and was saddened when the young knight who was brother to Lady Annyn hanged himself, or so he thought. Wanting to sink a dagger into Lord Wulfrith’s heart, Annyn disguises herself as a squire and, using another’s name, enters Wulfen Castle where only men are allowed.

Annyn and Garr will clash as he is harsh in his training and she is resentful of the man she intends to kill. The training of knights goes on as King Stephen and young Duke Henry vie for the Crown of England. They will demand loyalty of their followers and will seek alliances with the powerful Lord Wulfrith and a favorable marriage for Annyn she does not want. Garr initially supports Stephen but comes to see Henry is the better choice. He has no idea one of his squires is a woman until she is “unveiled”.

This was so well written wth Wulfrith doling out “lessons” to his squires, lessons they would all remember. As he and Annyn discover they care for each other, she spouts the lessons back to him. Only Annyn had enough faith in her brother that the lies about him do not penetrate her loyalty. I loved that. Gar, initially cold and seemingly proud, is an honorable and truly humble before God. The treachery behind the mysterious death of Annyn’s brother is slowly revealed to great effect.

A wonderful medieval romance that will definitely hold your attention. It weaves in Annyn and Garr’s faith, too, as they develop over time. It’s very well done! Garr and Annyn are going on my Favorite Heroes & Heroines list!

Elizabeth Chadwick’s THE OUTLAW KNIGHT – A Sweeping Historical Saga and a Captivating Love Story—the real Robin Hood of Legend

Set in medieval England, beginning in 1184, this is the story of Fulke FitzWarin, the oldest son of the FitzWarin Marcher Lords. At age 15, he becomes a squire of Ranulf de Glanville, the Justicar. Fulke’s family is hoping through influence with King Henry and his court to regain Whittingdon Castle in Shropshire, their inheritance lost in the Welsh wars to Roger de Powys.

While acting the squire, Fulke runs afoul of young Prince John’s cruel temper during a game of chess and the two young men become life long enemies. Fulke is removed from court to become a squire to Theobald Walter, a powerful baron. Years later, Fulke becomes a knight just as a young, 12 year old Maude le Vavasour is betrothed to Theobald, who is three times her age. When Fulke and Maud meet again, she is 16 and being wed to Theobald. Fulke and Maude become enamored with each other, though they avoid each other and remain true to their commitments. In the background lurks Prince John who lusts for the beautiful young woman.

Much happens over the years as we follow the lives of Fulke and Maude. (Fulk III—no “e”—was a real historic figure, who married Maud le Vavasour—again with no “e”—and rebelled against King John from 1201-1203, living in the woods as an outlaw ala Robin Hood. Lest you worry about him (as I did), Fulk III lived into his 90’s, which given his life and the times, was a miracle.)

Chadwick brings the history to life with a richness that makes you feel like you’re living it. It’s a well-told tale with extensive historical detail and vivid pictures of the social and political happenings of the times. Chadwick’s medieval vocabulary, dialog and descriptions reflect considerable research, as do all her novels.

Both Fulke and Maude are compelling characters as well as real historic figures; you want to see them together. He is an honorable man much like the Robin Hood we imagine, and she is an intelligent, spirited young woman just like Maid Marian. It’s a love story that will keep you turning pages. I thought the way Chadwick dealt with the historical figure Clarice de Auberville was brilliant—and believable.

Though Chadwick typically writes historical fiction with romantic elements, there’s enough romance here to satisfy the historical romance lover. I recommend it.

Note: This was first published in the UK as Lords of The White Castle, and follows the FitzWarin family saga begun in Shadows And Strongholds, but it can be read alone.

Donna Fletcher’s THE IRISH DEVIL – Endearing Irish Love Story

Set in 1171, this is the story of a powerful, undefeated warrior (“the Irish Devil”) who was awarded lands and the choice of a lord’s daughters for his wife in exchange for his loyalty to the Irish king.

Eric of Shanekill chooses the gentle but courageous Lady Faith, not realizing she bears the scar of a brutal attack years ago and has lived with the shame inflicted upon her. Like the others, when Eric learns she was attacked, he assumes the worst—that her innocence was taken. As a result, he refuses to consummate the marriage until he knows the truth. Faith stubbornly refuses to tell him, wanting him to believe she is still a virgin.

It’s a well-told tale with intrigue and a murder for Eric and his valiant men to solve. I loved the faithful dog that guarded Faith. Rook became a central character, with charm and noble nature…and in the end a hero. You will love him. 

Fletcher did a great job of developing Eric and his two closest friends, his half brother Borg and Colin. Faith was an endearing heroine, strong and caring, who turned a tragedy into doing good for others. I enjoyed this romance and recommend it.

Johanna Lindsey’s PRISONER OF MY DESIRE – Not Your Ordinary Medieval Romance—a Bodice Ripper that Turns the Tables!

While not to everyone’s taste, I found this an exciting read. Set in England in 1152, it is the story of Warrick de Chaville, Lord Fulkhurst, a fierce knight who learned at a young age to take revenge on any who harmed him. So he would take his revenge on the woman who captured him, had him chained to a bed and forced herself on him, stealing his seed. Little did he know that Rowena Belleme, Lady of Tures, was herself forced to use him, a man she thought a slave, to produce an heir for the old lord she was forced to wed, who died before he could even consummate the marriage. If she did not cooperate, her ruthless stepbrother Gilbert would kill her mother.

When Warrick gains his freedom he vows to have his revenge, “like for like.” So he imprisons Rowena in his castle, taking her as he wants and forcing her to act the servant. Rowena hates the arrogant knight and the passion he forces from her, but out of guilt for what she did to him, she willingly plays the servant.

Lindsey does a superb job of bringing an unlikely tale to readers in a way that is rich in medieval setting, period language and history of England between King Stephen and the coming of Henry II. The sexual tension between Warrick and Rowena, as you can imagine, is high. Warrick is a domineering knight who has already had two wives and thinks to take a third, but it seems his betrothed has gone missing. Meanwhile, he must contend with the spirited woman who he changed from a lady to a servant, all for the sake of revenge.

A bodice ripper that turns the tables—a great read that will keep you turning pages!

Sarah Hegger’s THE BRIDE GIFT – An Unwanted Marriage Turns to Love

Set in England in 1153, this is the story of Helena of Lystanwold, whose uncle has fallen out with King Stephen and fled England, leaving his castle and his niece to Guy of Helston. We are led to believe Helena’s uncle somehow managed to marry her to Guy before Guy arrives. Helena (“called “Nell”) is not happy as she already had a man picked out, one she can manipulate, whereas Guy, a warrior, is called the “Scourge of Farringdon”.

Guy goes about his new duties with few words for his reluctant bride. Helena decides to take her husband in hand by seducing him to get him to kill the man responsible for her sister’s death. Guy readily agrees to both (he was intending to kill the guy anyway) and becomes the consummate lover.

A cleverly told story, which takes pains to convey a medieval feel (with some unusual phrasing meant to speak of the era). The story held my interest and kept me turning pages as Helena comes to see that the man she had chosen is really a pathetic figure and the man who waits in the shadows to take her is a true villain and not her friend.

Victoria Vane’s VALOR – Rich Historical Detail Will Sweep You Away to 12th Century Scotland!

Set in Scotland, beginning in 1140, this is the story of Davina of Crailing and Domnall Fitz William. Domnall, the descendant of two kings, has been robbed of the lands and title that should have been his. He lives to regain them. And he wants to be worthy of the girl he loves, Davina. As a child, she lost her family and her home to a murdering band of cutthroats and became the ward of King David. The king would use her in a marriage bargain to secure support. But the man the king proposes is one who Davina despises.

Davina loves Domnall but circumstances will tear them apart as each is forced to pursue another path. Both Davina and Domnall are worthy characters willing to sacrifice their own plans and dreams for the good of others. Lots of action and suspense will keep you turning pages.

A well-told tale rich in history and historical detail, Valor is a welcome add to the short list of historical romances with actual history and written with an authentic feel for Scotland’s past.

I intend to read more by this author!

Jennifer Roberson’s LADY OF THE FOREST – An Opus Telling of the Robin Hood Legend, Rich in Historical Detail

Set in Nottinghamshire in 1194, at 608 pages, this is a thorough telling of how Robin Hood came to be… and the love story of Sir Robert (Robin) of Locksley and Lady Marian of Ravenskeep. In the words of the author, it’s “…a fictional interpretation of imaginary events leading to the more familiar adventures depicted in novels…” And so it is.

The whole cast of characters is included in intricate detail: Alan of the Dales, Little John, Friar Tuck, William Scarlet, one-handed Wat and the boy, Much, to name some—Saxons made outlaw by Norman cruelty, King John’s egregious taxes and the Sheriff of Nottingham’s “justice” fed by his selfish ambition. Richard the Lionheart, though not a character, is mentioned frequently and motivates the stalwart souls to engage in thievery to raise his ransom.

Sir Robert (whose mother called him “Robin”) returns from the Crusades as a broken man, plagued by memories of his captivity with the Saracens. His father, the Earl of Huntington, has plans for his son to take his place as heir to their castle at Locksley. But much has changed in England while Robert was gone and Robert/Robin has little desire to live in the castle.

Self-serving, ambitious Prince John seeks to rein in his brother’s sted and William de Lacey, the Sheriff of Nottingham, seeks more power and wants Marian in his bed. With the death of her father, Marian is now a ward of the Crown and alone at Ravenskeep.

Marian begins as a woman too easily manipulated by the conniving Sheriff, but at times shows a backbone as she learns to stand on her own when she is abducted by a murderer (Will Scarlet who, with good reason, murdered four Normans) and is then rescued by Robin with whom she spends the night in Sherwood Forest. She is ruined, no matter that nothing happened.

I am a fan of Roberson and loved Lady of the Glen. So, I couldn’t wait to devour this one. It’s a bit different and you just need to be ready for that. Unlike Lady, this story, though it  kept me turning pages, contains a lot of detail, a lot of perspectives (every character had one) and at times was just a tad repetitive. Still, it’s superb storytelling and it has Roberson’s wonderful characterization and writing.

I love her work and this is an exceptional effort. The sequel is Lady of Sherwood.

Mary Gillgannon’s LADY OF STEEL – Medieval Adventure!

Set in the 12^th century, beginning in 1189, this is the story of Lady Nicola and Fawkes de Cressy, one of King Richard’s knights. The tale begins as Lady Nicola’s abusive and wicked husband, who doesn’t desire women, forces her to have sex with Fawkes to conceive an heir. They share one day of passion and, thereafter, Fawkes goes off to fight in the Crusade.

When Fawkes returns, King Richard awards him Nicola’s lands, the holdings of his enemy, who Fawkes promptly slays in combat. Nicola is afraid to tell Fawkes that a child she hides is his because she doesn’t trust him. Once they shared passion, now they must learn to trust in the face of deception and enemies all around.

It seemed that the hero and heroine mistrusted each other for one reason or another for most of the book, notwithstanding that they were sleeping together. The heroine is a strong-willed woman who asserts herself in decisions affecting the castle’s management and, fortunately, the hero admires her for it. Lots of subplots and many characters add to the story including a healer, several knights and a few villains (one a jealous female). Gillgannon pays attention to details that give the story an authentic feel.

It’s a medieval adventure that fans of Gillgannon will enjoy.

Mary Jo Putney’s UNCOMMON VOWS – A Worthy Tale from 12th Century England

Set in 1143, when England was torn apart by the war between King Stephen and Matilda, King Henry I’s only legitimate heir, this is the story of Lady Meriel de Vere, a high spirited young woman who loves riding fast and training her falcon. Convent raised, she is considering taking the veil until a vision of a mounted knight blocking that path warns her from it.

Adrian de Lancey, Baron Warfield thought to become a priest, but the death of his father and older brothers at the hands of their enemy, Guy of Burgoigne, gave Adrian the title and a reason for vengeance. Adding to that, Matilda names Adrian Earl of Shropshire and King Stephen bestows the same title on Guy.

One day when Meriel is hunting with her falcon, she strays into the royal forest where Adrian and his men find her and accuse her of poaching. Meriel fears to tell him she is a Norman from her brother’s holding, Avonleigh, because they support King Stephen and she knows Adrian supports Matilda, so she lies and tells him she is a Welsh commoner. Adrian takes her back to his castle at Warfield and forcibly holds her prisoner in a small stone chamber, telling her she will remain there until she agrees to become his mistress. Meriel vows never to give in, preferring death to dishonor.

Adrian is her knowing his perfidy by her amnesia…which renders her a docile female, hardly recognizable from the strong-willed beauty she had been. Of course, Adrian takes full advantage.

This one will definitely keep you turning pages. Though it did bother me a bit that Meriel could have been free any time if she but told Adrian who she was. Alas, she does not and remains Adrian’s prisoner. For Meriel, who loved her freedom, it was a horrible fate. Adrian apparently buys her tale that she is common born, though her speech must have been that of a lady. And, though he realizes she is an innocent, he prays for wisdom to seduce her. (The word “cad” came to mind.) I so wanted him to grovel in the end.

The falconry aspects of the story are fascinating and Putney has done her research to present the noble sport well. The historical background is rich and surrounds the romance. I quite liked that. This story has it all: history, a great romance, vengeance, treachery, deceit, amnesia and, at one point, near rape. Oh yes, the ending is an exciting one!

A worthy medieval romance, I recommend it!