On Hist Fic Saturday
Let's go back to...the thirteenth century
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| 27 September 2022 My thanks to the author for my copy of this book |
Blood is not always thicker than water…
At times a common bloodline is something of a curse—or so Robert FitzStephan discovers when he realises his half-brother, Eustace de Lamont, wants to kill him.
A murderous and greedy brother isn’t Robert’s only challenge. He and his wife, Noor, also have to handle their infected relationship with a mightily displeased Queen Eleanor—all because of their mysterious little foundling whom they refuse to abandon or allow the queen to lock away.
Eustace is persistent. When Robert’s life hangs in the balance, it falls to Noor to do whatever it takes to rip them free from the toothy jaws of fate. Noor may be a woman, but weak she is not, and in her chest beats a heart as brave and ferocious as that of a lioness. But will her courage be enough to see them safe?
📖My review...
This is the third volume of this historical saga set during the tumultuous years of the thirteenth century and in Her Castilian Heart we meet again with Robert FitzStephen and his courageous wife, Eleanor d’Outremer. Returned to English soil and living back at Orton Manor, both Robert and Noor are trying to settle to a quieter life. However, when Robert is enlisted by Roger Mortimer to aid in King Edward I’s campaign against the Welsh their peaceful life flies silently away. This new situation is as deadly as it is dangerous as not only must Robert keep his wits about him during the campaign but he also runs the wrath of his half brother, Eustace de Lamont, whose insane and bitter jealousy of Robert knows no bounds.
In the hands of this talented writer history comes vividly alive, so that we start to understand the complexities of medieval government, particularly Edward I’s notorious campaign to conquer not just the Welsh but also his involvement in the political turmoil in Europe. However, the story is about so much more than blood and siege battles, it’s also about the strength of the relationship between Robert and Noor whose love affair continues to sizzle on the pages and also of their unswerving commitment to keeping safe all the people they love.
There is no doubt that this talented author knows how to bring history alive, the sights, sounds, and actions of the medieval world are vividly described so that it is entirely possible to feel like a fly on the wall as the cacophony of medieval chaos unfolds around you. Beautifully written and with a wonderful authenticity this series is set to continue sometime next year when Their Castilian Orphan is published. As with any series it is best to start at the beginning with book one however, each story can also be read as a standalone romantic adventure.
🍺Best Read with...a mug of ale and a bowl of hot pottage
About the Author
Had Anna been allowed to choose, she’d have become a time-traveller. As this was impossible, she became a financial professional with two absorbing interests: history and writing. Anna has authored the acclaimed time travelling series The Graham Saga, set in 17th century Scotland and Maryland, as well as the equally acclaimed medieval series The King’s Greatest Enemy which is set in 14th century England.
Twitter @abelfrageauthor
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