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Guardians of the Crown #2
The King's Man
Kit Lovell is one of the King’s men, a disillusioned Royalist who passes his time between cheating at cards, living off his wealthy and attractive mistress and by plotting the death of Oliver Cromwell.
Fleeing a sadistic and ambitious suitor, Thamsine Granville is alone, penniless and friendless in London. She has her own reasons for wanting Cromwell dead and when she hurls a piece of brick at his coach, she finds herself unexpectedly in the arms of Kit Lovell.
Far from the world weary, benevolent rescuer that he seems, Kit plunges Thamsine into his world of espionage and betrayal. The world Kit has carefully built up begins to unravel as the plotting takes a serious turn and his own life is now on the line. Nor had he planned on falling in love with Thamsine Granville and when Thamsine falls into the hands of her vicious suitor, Ambrose Morton, Kit is torn by his loyalty to his master and his love for Thamsine.
In rescuing Thamsine, Kit makes one last gamble and loses. The price he has to pay is the hangman’s rope…
Fleeing a sadistic and ambitious suitor, Thamsine Granville is alone, penniless and friendless in London. She has her own reasons for wanting Cromwell dead and when she hurls a piece of brick at his coach, she finds herself unexpectedly in the arms of Kit Lovell.
Far from the world weary, benevolent rescuer that he seems, Kit plunges Thamsine into his world of espionage and betrayal. The world Kit has carefully built up begins to unravel as the plotting takes a serious turn and his own life is now on the line. Nor had he planned on falling in love with Thamsine Granville and when Thamsine falls into the hands of her vicious suitor, Ambrose Morton, Kit is torn by his loyalty to his master and his love for Thamsine.
In rescuing Thamsine, Kit makes one last gamble and loses. The price he has to pay is the hangman’s rope…
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2007
13 people are currently reading
113 people want to read
About the author
Alison Stuart
25 books366 followersMystery, history, romance and more…
Alison Stuart writes historical romances and short stories set in England and Australia and across different periods of history. She is best known for THE POSTMISTRESS and THE GOLDMINER'S SISTER, stories set in the Victorian goldfields in the 1870s.
She also writes historical mysteries as A.M. Stuart and her popular Harriet Gordon mystery series is set in Singapore in 1910.
She lives in Melbourne, Australia with her husband and a geriatric cat. In a past life Alison worked as a lawyer across a variety of disciplines including the military and emergency services. She has lived in Africa and Singapore and, when circumstances permit, travels extensively - all for research of course!
(This writer is NOT the Alison Stuart who also writes as Kate Tremayne and authored Fateful Shadows, Sin No More, Barefoot Angel, Innocence Betrayed or Loyalty Defiled.)
Alison Stuart writes historical romances and short stories set in England and Australia and across different periods of history. She is best known for THE POSTMISTRESS and THE GOLDMINER'S SISTER, stories set in the Victorian goldfields in the 1870s.
She also writes historical mysteries as A.M. Stuart and her popular Harriet Gordon mystery series is set in Singapore in 1910.
She lives in Melbourne, Australia with her husband and a geriatric cat. In a past life Alison worked as a lawyer across a variety of disciplines including the military and emergency services. She has lived in Africa and Singapore and, when circumstances permit, travels extensively - all for research of course!
(This writer is NOT the Alison Stuart who also writes as Kate Tremayne and authored Fateful Shadows, Sin No More, Barefoot Angel, Innocence Betrayed or Loyalty Defiled.)
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
June 16, 2015
Thamsine Granville was hungry; she hadn’t eaten since the previous day and now, in the centre of a huge crowd of people waiting to see Oliver Cromwell pass by, she did something which she hadn’t fully thought through – and when she was snatched from disaster by a strong and determined young man she was frantic. But the entry into Thamsine’s life by the man, whose name was Kit Lovell meant unexpectedly her future changed. But was it for the better – or was it infinitely worse?
Kit Lovell lived life on the edge – he had always been one of the King’s men but with the King in exile in France he was at a loss. He made his money by winning at cards and when he couldn’t do that, his mistress Lucy, who was a wealthy widow, paid his way. But the plans of death and destruction that he was mixed up in were fraught with danger.
With Thamsine in fear of her life and running from an evil and cruel man, Kit took her to a place she would be safe. But far from being safe, Thamsine found herself all too soon tangled in Kit’s affairs – with lies and betrayal between Kit and Thamsine, she knew she couldn’t trust him, but she knew her heart was betraying her. The dangers, and the soldiers, were moving closer – would Kit’s decisions be the worst he had ever made? Was the result to be death?
I absolutely loved and devoured The King’s Man by Aussie author Alison Stuart. This is the second in the "Guardians of the Crown" series, with the first being By The Sword which I also loved. Steeped in the history of mid-1600s England and France, I loved the two main characters; Thamsine had an incredible strength and fortitude while Kit was outwardly strong and inwardly soft. I love this author’s writing and can’t wait for her next book (whatever it may be) – she has historical fiction down to a fine art! Highly recommended to all.
Kit Lovell lived life on the edge – he had always been one of the King’s men but with the King in exile in France he was at a loss. He made his money by winning at cards and when he couldn’t do that, his mistress Lucy, who was a wealthy widow, paid his way. But the plans of death and destruction that he was mixed up in were fraught with danger.
With Thamsine in fear of her life and running from an evil and cruel man, Kit took her to a place she would be safe. But far from being safe, Thamsine found herself all too soon tangled in Kit’s affairs – with lies and betrayal between Kit and Thamsine, she knew she couldn’t trust him, but she knew her heart was betraying her. The dangers, and the soldiers, were moving closer – would Kit’s decisions be the worst he had ever made? Was the result to be death?
I absolutely loved and devoured The King’s Man by Aussie author Alison Stuart. This is the second in the "Guardians of the Crown" series, with the first being By The Sword which I also loved. Steeped in the history of mid-1600s England and France, I loved the two main characters; Thamsine had an incredible strength and fortitude while Kit was outwardly strong and inwardly soft. I love this author’s writing and can’t wait for her next book (whatever it may be) – she has historical fiction down to a fine art! Highly recommended to all.
May 17, 2016
This is the second in Alison Stuart's Guardians of the Crown trilogy but it can be read as a stand alone since the main characters are different from the first book. Like the first one though this book is a great balance of historical fact and romantic fiction.
The two main characters, Kit and Thamsine, are well drawn and very likable. The baddy is very bad indeed and some of the action is quite brutal. The author's knowledge of the historical setting is really good and of course we get to experience all the unsavoury and unsanitary conditions of the time, including life as a prisoner in the Tower of London.
I am enjoying the trilogy very much and am already looking forward to the third one.
The two main characters, Kit and Thamsine, are well drawn and very likable. The baddy is very bad indeed and some of the action is quite brutal. The author's knowledge of the historical setting is really good and of course we get to experience all the unsavoury and unsanitary conditions of the time, including life as a prisoner in the Tower of London.
I am enjoying the trilogy very much and am already looking forward to the third one.
March 9, 2017
The English Civil War is a period of history I have only recently become interested in, largely thanks to the superb novels set during that time by the British author Stella Riley, who is, in my opinion, one of the best historical fiction/historical romance writers out there. Alison Stuart wasn’t previously on my radar, but now I’ve read The King’s Man, I’m definitely going to seek out more of her books.
Christopher Lovell – Kit to his friends – is disenchanted, disillusioned and fed up with life and the seemingly endless war he is covertly fighting. He appears to his cohorts to be The King’s Man. However, he is playing a nefarious double game not of his making, which involves him risking his life on a daily basis. Captain Lovell fought bravely, heroically and loyally at the Battle of Worcester on the side of the crown; and when seriously wounded and at a very low ebb, he is coerced into spying against his comrades by John Thurloe, Cromwell’s spymaster and Secretary of the Council of State. Kit’s reasons for capitulating do not become apparent until fairly near the end of the story, but suffice to say that he turns traitor against Charles Stuart (later King Charles II) who is now living in exile in France. Kit is a charismatic, handsome, devil-may-care character and very attractive to the ladies. Alison Stuart has done an excellent job in her characterisation of this man who apparently lives without scruples, lives off his attractive young mistress, cheats at cards and betrays his fellow cavaliers; and yet I still found it easy to like and admire him and to hope for his triumph over adversity.
Thamsine Granville, a gently bred young lady and heiress is running away from the cruel, sadistic man that her dying Father was browbeaten into betrothing her to. Desperate to evade her pursuer, Thamasine is saved from a potentially fatal situation by Kit, after which they go their separate ways only to meet again later that day, apparently by accident. Thamsine really has hit rock bottom and is in the process of prostituting herself in her desperation to survive, when her knight in shining armour saves her again. Kit takes her to a friend’s inn where he arranges for her to work for bed and board. Thamsine is grateful, as Kit planned she would be, and is already a little in love with him; he however, is working under orders from John Thurloe and has been instructed to reel her in and set her up for use as another unwilling spy.
The ensuing story is rich in detail and intrigue as it also charts the growing of an unlikely love between the two main protagonists. Thamsine finds the barely visible, honourable side of Kit Lovell, hidden beneath his cynical, couldn’t-care-less, exterior. Her innocent goodness is his salvation and I liked how she helps him to care again and also to achieve redemption.
There are brutal scenes of attempted rape, downright wickedness, high drama, anguish and tender love. Alison Stuart paints a richly eloquent picture of the seedy backstreets of London, the Tower of London – where both Kit and Thamsine spend time as inmates – then across the channel to the court of the exiled Charles and back again, culminating in a shocking and dramatic conclusion that I did not see coming. As far as Kit and Thamsine are concerned, after their tumultuous roller coaster of a ride, they do at least get their HEA but the story is then left hanging and I can only suppose, without adding a spoiler, that this slightly unsatisfactory ending will be the subject of the next book in this series. I enjoyed The King’s Man on the whole although it is a story that leaves the reader feeling slightly emotionally exhausted. Nevertheless I’m looking forward to the next in the series and will read it as soon as it is available.
Christopher Lovell – Kit to his friends – is disenchanted, disillusioned and fed up with life and the seemingly endless war he is covertly fighting. He appears to his cohorts to be The King’s Man. However, he is playing a nefarious double game not of his making, which involves him risking his life on a daily basis. Captain Lovell fought bravely, heroically and loyally at the Battle of Worcester on the side of the crown; and when seriously wounded and at a very low ebb, he is coerced into spying against his comrades by John Thurloe, Cromwell’s spymaster and Secretary of the Council of State. Kit’s reasons for capitulating do not become apparent until fairly near the end of the story, but suffice to say that he turns traitor against Charles Stuart (later King Charles II) who is now living in exile in France. Kit is a charismatic, handsome, devil-may-care character and very attractive to the ladies. Alison Stuart has done an excellent job in her characterisation of this man who apparently lives without scruples, lives off his attractive young mistress, cheats at cards and betrays his fellow cavaliers; and yet I still found it easy to like and admire him and to hope for his triumph over adversity.
Thamsine Granville, a gently bred young lady and heiress is running away from the cruel, sadistic man that her dying Father was browbeaten into betrothing her to. Desperate to evade her pursuer, Thamasine is saved from a potentially fatal situation by Kit, after which they go their separate ways only to meet again later that day, apparently by accident. Thamsine really has hit rock bottom and is in the process of prostituting herself in her desperation to survive, when her knight in shining armour saves her again. Kit takes her to a friend’s inn where he arranges for her to work for bed and board. Thamsine is grateful, as Kit planned she would be, and is already a little in love with him; he however, is working under orders from John Thurloe and has been instructed to reel her in and set her up for use as another unwilling spy.
The ensuing story is rich in detail and intrigue as it also charts the growing of an unlikely love between the two main protagonists. Thamsine finds the barely visible, honourable side of Kit Lovell, hidden beneath his cynical, couldn’t-care-less, exterior. Her innocent goodness is his salvation and I liked how she helps him to care again and also to achieve redemption.
There are brutal scenes of attempted rape, downright wickedness, high drama, anguish and tender love. Alison Stuart paints a richly eloquent picture of the seedy backstreets of London, the Tower of London – where both Kit and Thamsine spend time as inmates – then across the channel to the court of the exiled Charles and back again, culminating in a shocking and dramatic conclusion that I did not see coming. As far as Kit and Thamsine are concerned, after their tumultuous roller coaster of a ride, they do at least get their HEA but the story is then left hanging and I can only suppose, without adding a spoiler, that this slightly unsatisfactory ending will be the subject of the next book in this series. I enjoyed The King’s Man on the whole although it is a story that leaves the reader feeling slightly emotionally exhausted. Nevertheless I’m looking forward to the next in the series and will read it as soon as it is available.
May 17, 2015
If you've read the blurb and you're not intrigued by that, then I don't know what will draw you into a book.
This story has it all; Friendship, hardship, romance, war, blackmail, assassination, drunken tavern songs, bawdy wenches and plotting and dishonesty as thick as three planks of wood. The plot is twisted and gnarly and will drag you along however unwittingly you may be, down the dimly lit corridors of this 16th century historical tale.
Thankfully, it's not all doom and gloom. Kit and Thamsine are lovely, detailed and realistic characters who draw you into their arms like lovers. They tease you with whispered sweet nothings and then dunk you head first into the cold harshness of their reality. If you don't know much about this time in England's history, you'll find this tale amusing and entertaining, if you do know of this rather turbulent time, you'll find this tale rich in detail, adding colour to the dreary, daily life of the English subjects.
There was one point that failed in this story. In actual fact it didn't fail, but it failed to deliver the impact I think Alison was going for. It has to do with the closing line in the synopsis. The lurch of my guts, the stilling of my heart... it all occurred but it wasn't allowed to sink in, the story moved along too quickly. The gut-wrenching feeling of sadness should have been overwhelming, it should have made me cry. It didn't quite get there.
I've seen this type of scene done before and, I believe, done better. If you've read Diana Gabaldon's Outlander Series you'll probably know of the scene I'm referring to. This was painstakingly drawn out and I, as the reader, was in tears as I mourned the loss of one of my dearest friends/characters. I'm not saying that Alison's tale wasn't great, this scene was almost right... perhaps another chapter or two in between would have just given me time to really start to feel for them.
All in all, this was a thoroughly engrossing tale. If you enjoy historical fiction, if you enjoy romance, if you enjoy plotting and mystery then this book is for you!
A few things I noticed:
The text changed size and font every paragraph or so, not a huge issue, but something that might wreak havoc for those who struggle with reading certain fonts.
69% - '...if you told us what (he) looks like...'
75% - '...there was little she could (do) for Kit...'
This story has it all; Friendship, hardship, romance, war, blackmail, assassination, drunken tavern songs, bawdy wenches and plotting and dishonesty as thick as three planks of wood. The plot is twisted and gnarly and will drag you along however unwittingly you may be, down the dimly lit corridors of this 16th century historical tale.
Thankfully, it's not all doom and gloom. Kit and Thamsine are lovely, detailed and realistic characters who draw you into their arms like lovers. They tease you with whispered sweet nothings and then dunk you head first into the cold harshness of their reality. If you don't know much about this time in England's history, you'll find this tale amusing and entertaining, if you do know of this rather turbulent time, you'll find this tale rich in detail, adding colour to the dreary, daily life of the English subjects.
There was one point that failed in this story. In actual fact it didn't fail, but it failed to deliver the impact I think Alison was going for. It has to do with the closing line in the synopsis. The lurch of my guts, the stilling of my heart... it all occurred but it wasn't allowed to sink in, the story moved along too quickly. The gut-wrenching feeling of sadness should have been overwhelming, it should have made me cry. It didn't quite get there.
I've seen this type of scene done before and, I believe, done better. If you've read Diana Gabaldon's Outlander Series you'll probably know of the scene I'm referring to. This was painstakingly drawn out and I, as the reader, was in tears as I mourned the loss of one of my dearest friends/characters. I'm not saying that Alison's tale wasn't great, this scene was almost right... perhaps another chapter or two in between would have just given me time to really start to feel for them.
All in all, this was a thoroughly engrossing tale. If you enjoy historical fiction, if you enjoy romance, if you enjoy plotting and mystery then this book is for you!
A few things I noticed:
The text changed size and font every paragraph or so, not a huge issue, but something that might wreak havoc for those who struggle with reading certain fonts.
69% - '...if you told us what (he) looks like...'
75% - '...there was little she could (do) for Kit...'
September 22, 2015
THE KING'S MAN by Alison Stuart is an artfully splendid historical story that will leave you yearning for more!
Ms. Stuart has brought to life characters that are fascinating, compelling and full of life and the plot she has created is so intricately woven that it keeps the pages turning in this entertaining read. Full of depth and realism, this story will rivet you until the end. The dialogues are delivered with weighty assurance and endow the characters with its power. Carefully constructed back story and lofty descriptions add insight into a way of life so long ago.
In THE KING'S MAN, Kit Lovell and Thamsine Granville's story is told.
Hungry, alone and on the run, Thamsine Granville has lost everything. By lashing out at Oliver Cromwell, the man behind her demise, slugging his coach with a brick, Thamsine has automatically initiated her death wish. But she will fight until the end until a man rescues her from soldiers out to get her. Thamsine falls for her knight only to realize that his betrayal is not worth her love.
Kit Lovell is a gambling womanizer who lives off his wealthy mistress. When not cheating at cards, he's plotting Oliver Cromwell's death. But he has his secrets and his demons well kept behind a mask of bravery and rescuing one damsel will not divert him from his motive!
Overall, THE KING'S MAN is guaranteed to keep readers entertained and satisfied with the turn of events in the end.
Recommended
5/5 Stars
November 4, 2012
Few historical romances are based in the turbulent period of history when Cromwell controlled England and Charles II was in exile in France. I opened this novel anticipating something new and different. What I didn’t expect was to be plunged into a heroic tale of a man and woman who find lasting love in a world of treachery, betrayal, and death.
Ms. Stuart delves into dark places in the human soul with a hero and heroine who leap off the pages, passionate and larger-than-life. Her fast-paced plot boils with violence, betrayals, and murders, while leavening this with innocence, kindness, trust—and love won through a trial of fire. She brings to life John Thurloe, Cromwell’s spymaster and Secretary of the Council of State—a man who lived then and wielded real power—a man who coerced unwilling men and women into doing his bidding in the name of protecting Cromwell and destroying those sympathetic to the monarchy. Ms Stuart introduces London, as it was at the time of the Reformation.
Kit Lovell and Thamsine Granville are among those coerced by Thurloe. When they meet, Thamsine innocently trusts Kit, and is a bit in love with him after he rescues her from soldiers. This makes her devastation so much greater when she learns he has betrayed her. Helplessly caught in Thurloe’s web, she dare not risk being found by the man who wants to wed her for her fortune.
Cunning Kit is in greater bondage to Thurloe than Thamsine. He faces death if he doesn’t betray comrades who are friends and supporters of Charles II. Despising himself for his despicable actions and unworthiness, he fears falling in love with Thamsine. Until one night when the unthinkable happens, and Kit learns he’s not the man he believed he’d become, and vows to free himself and Thamsine from Thurloe’s power.
This is a wonderfully adventurous historical romance. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Ms. Stuart delves into dark places in the human soul with a hero and heroine who leap off the pages, passionate and larger-than-life. Her fast-paced plot boils with violence, betrayals, and murders, while leavening this with innocence, kindness, trust—and love won through a trial of fire. She brings to life John Thurloe, Cromwell’s spymaster and Secretary of the Council of State—a man who lived then and wielded real power—a man who coerced unwilling men and women into doing his bidding in the name of protecting Cromwell and destroying those sympathetic to the monarchy. Ms Stuart introduces London, as it was at the time of the Reformation.
Kit Lovell and Thamsine Granville are among those coerced by Thurloe. When they meet, Thamsine innocently trusts Kit, and is a bit in love with him after he rescues her from soldiers. This makes her devastation so much greater when she learns he has betrayed her. Helplessly caught in Thurloe’s web, she dare not risk being found by the man who wants to wed her for her fortune.
Cunning Kit is in greater bondage to Thurloe than Thamsine. He faces death if he doesn’t betray comrades who are friends and supporters of Charles II. Despising himself for his despicable actions and unworthiness, he fears falling in love with Thamsine. Until one night when the unthinkable happens, and Kit learns he’s not the man he believed he’d become, and vows to free himself and Thamsine from Thurloe’s power.
This is a wonderfully adventurous historical romance. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
September 19, 2012
Cromwell is king in all but name in England, while Charles II bides his time at his cousin's Court. Numerous plots abound to put Charles back on the throne in England, but none have yet succeeded.
Thurloe, Cromwell's spymaster and Secretary to the Council of State, wields substantial power in England and holds the lives of his many unwilling spies in his hands. He is a master at inducing individuals to turn traitor to Charles with threats and inside knowledge.
Kit Lovell is one of those unfortunate spies, as is Thamsine Granville. Each for unique reasons.
Thamsine is on the run from a brutal man in London. He catches sight of her just as Cromwell's carriage passes between them. Thamsine hurls a brickbat at Cromwell's carriage to create a diversion to escape.
Kit Lovell, a plotter and traitor to own, rescues Thamsine from searching soldiers, only to later betray her to Cromwell. The price of her freedom is to provide with Cromwell with specified information.
Kit and Thamsine's lives intersect as they both attempt to fulfill Cromwell's assignments, but repugnance for their tasks increasingly escalates, especially in Kit's case.
As the reason for Thamsine's penniless existence in London becomes evident, Kit and Thamsine unite to earn their freedom. A task not easily accomplished in the shadowy world they inhabit.
Kit is not so quick at sharing the stranglehold Thurloe has upon him and is somewhat of an egnima to Thamsine.
The King's Man is an adventure novel set in a turbulent time. Each person suspected of plotting to overthrow the Commonwealth was made example, while the living threat of Charles II menaced across the Channel.
The King's Man is a light historical romance, with plenty of flair. An enjoyable read.
Thurloe, Cromwell's spymaster and Secretary to the Council of State, wields substantial power in England and holds the lives of his many unwilling spies in his hands. He is a master at inducing individuals to turn traitor to Charles with threats and inside knowledge.
Kit Lovell is one of those unfortunate spies, as is Thamsine Granville. Each for unique reasons.
Thamsine is on the run from a brutal man in London. He catches sight of her just as Cromwell's carriage passes between them. Thamsine hurls a brickbat at Cromwell's carriage to create a diversion to escape.
Kit Lovell, a plotter and traitor to own, rescues Thamsine from searching soldiers, only to later betray her to Cromwell. The price of her freedom is to provide with Cromwell with specified information.
Kit and Thamsine's lives intersect as they both attempt to fulfill Cromwell's assignments, but repugnance for their tasks increasingly escalates, especially in Kit's case.
As the reason for Thamsine's penniless existence in London becomes evident, Kit and Thamsine unite to earn their freedom. A task not easily accomplished in the shadowy world they inhabit.
Kit is not so quick at sharing the stranglehold Thurloe has upon him and is somewhat of an egnima to Thamsine.
The King's Man is an adventure novel set in a turbulent time. Each person suspected of plotting to overthrow the Commonwealth was made example, while the living threat of Charles II menaced across the Channel.
The King's Man is a light historical romance, with plenty of flair. An enjoyable read.
September 5, 2015
Set in the time of Oliver Cromwell, the story opens with the heroine Thamsine, in a moment of desperation to escape being caught (whom by, is only revealed much later) hurls a brick at the coach of passing Oliver Cromwell. As soldiers rush to arrest her, she is saved by a kind stranger who takes her to an inn run by his former sergeant. But Kit Lovell, her savior, is a man deeply entrenched in a world of espionage and betrayal. Once the King's man he is now firmly under the thumb of Cromwell's Secretary to the Council of the state, Lord Thurloe. When Thamsine is recognized, arrested & brought to the Tower, she gains her freedom but at the cost of having to serve Lord Thurloe to spy for him.
The story is darker than most that I've read & the romance is also quite light. Both the characters have backgrounds that are only slowly revealed as the story unfolds. Kit has a mistress he lives with who is a rich widow, which I found extremely disconcerting as their relationship continues even after he meets and gets to know Thamsine. There isn't much of a sense of how the relationship evolves between Thamsine & Kit; when suddenly both are quite in love with each other.
Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review.
The story is darker than most that I've read & the romance is also quite light. Both the characters have backgrounds that are only slowly revealed as the story unfolds. Kit has a mistress he lives with who is a rich widow, which I found extremely disconcerting as their relationship continues even after he meets and gets to know Thamsine. There isn't much of a sense of how the relationship evolves between Thamsine & Kit; when suddenly both are quite in love with each other.
Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review.
January 28, 2015
Didn't think I would enjoy this book as the English Civil War is not my favourite period in history, but I loved it. Became a real page turner. Couldn't put it down.
May 16, 2016
4.5 stars
Kit was a great hero. I also enjoyed reading about this time in England's history.
Kit was a great hero. I also enjoyed reading about this time in England's history.
October 10, 2019
More historical romance. My favourite of the 3.
September 21, 2015
As I started this book, I knew I could expect something extra ordinary. Not your every day romance but a whole lot of life and misery making the situations all the more real for a reader. And I was not wrong. This book delivered on the promise set in the first of the series; the one that preceded it.
Thamsine Granville is hiding from someone. Someone who catches her on the streets of London. To avoid being caught, she has no other option but to stage a diversion. A diversion that just as well see her hanged and quartered. Taking a brick from the pavement, she hurls it at the Lord Protector and boom! Diversion!
As soon as the reality of what she has done sinks in, she knows she is going to be dead soon. And she is mighty frightened. All of a sudden there's man dragging her into an alley. She is saved from an imminent death somehow.
The man is Kit Lovell and calls her a whore for the way she kissed him while her life was being saved. Though she is indignant and insulted with the insinuation, deep down she knows that is the only option left to her and she has nothing and she has eaten in a day.
Kit Lovell is a soldier who has fought for the King's cause but he also knows that the Parliament was taking hold in the country. That there were neither enough men nor monies for fighting for the King anymore. Irrespective of what he believed, appearances had to be kept up.
Saving Thamsine again, from whoring herself this time, he takes her to a pub and gets her employment. Though there is nothing respectable about a lady working the taproom, at least her honour is intact.
Thamsine thinks of him as her hero and awaits him every day for a glimpse. Unknown to her, she is just a pawn in a game played on a wide canvas. A game where Kit is as much a saviour for her as he is a traitor. She just does not know what to do.
Their relationship is such as cannot be described in words.
As Thamsine is avoiding a marriage that is being forced onto her person so that her affianced can get his hands on her fortune, she marries Kit instead. A married woman cannot marry another obviously.
To save themselves, the newly married couple plans of going to Barbados, a sort of self exile in action. But before that can happen, Kit is caught and is sentenced to die.
What happens next? This being a Romance, it is a Happily Ever After as well. There is a lot of sprinkled tragedy in this story. To find out how the death sentence pans out, read the story. You will not regret the time you spend reading this book.
Thamsine Granville is hiding from someone. Someone who catches her on the streets of London. To avoid being caught, she has no other option but to stage a diversion. A diversion that just as well see her hanged and quartered. Taking a brick from the pavement, she hurls it at the Lord Protector and boom! Diversion!
As soon as the reality of what she has done sinks in, she knows she is going to be dead soon. And she is mighty frightened. All of a sudden there's man dragging her into an alley. She is saved from an imminent death somehow.
The man is Kit Lovell and calls her a whore for the way she kissed him while her life was being saved. Though she is indignant and insulted with the insinuation, deep down she knows that is the only option left to her and she has nothing and she has eaten in a day.
Kit Lovell is a soldier who has fought for the King's cause but he also knows that the Parliament was taking hold in the country. That there were neither enough men nor monies for fighting for the King anymore. Irrespective of what he believed, appearances had to be kept up.
Saving Thamsine again, from whoring herself this time, he takes her to a pub and gets her employment. Though there is nothing respectable about a lady working the taproom, at least her honour is intact.
Thamsine thinks of him as her hero and awaits him every day for a glimpse. Unknown to her, she is just a pawn in a game played on a wide canvas. A game where Kit is as much a saviour for her as he is a traitor. She just does not know what to do.
Their relationship is such as cannot be described in words.
As Thamsine is avoiding a marriage that is being forced onto her person so that her affianced can get his hands on her fortune, she marries Kit instead. A married woman cannot marry another obviously.
To save themselves, the newly married couple plans of going to Barbados, a sort of self exile in action. But before that can happen, Kit is caught and is sentenced to die.
What happens next? This being a Romance, it is a Happily Ever After as well. There is a lot of sprinkled tragedy in this story. To find out how the death sentence pans out, read the story. You will not regret the time you spend reading this book.
January 18, 2016
This book is a reflection of the time it was set it. It is full of turmoil, tragedy, and heartbreak. It is at times poignant, at times intense and at times heart wrenching.
This reads more like a historical fiction with touches of romance (enough to make my romantic heart glad) then a historical romance but it is brilliantly written and thoughtfully presented.
The English Civil War is a terrible time in England's history, where brother turned against brother, neighbours sold each other out and friends became enemies. This is the setting we find Kit and Thamsine in, thrust in a play beyond their control, where betrayals were common and trust was a precious and often lost commodity.
Kit is everything the book says he is - a scoundrel, a rogue and a charmer, but he also has a secret agenda and is beholden to a very powerful man, unable to control the ebbs and flows of his own life. We see Kit struggle with his integrity as he dances to a puppet master's tune and ache for him as he tries without success to do what is right, living with his conscience and believing that he is trading his integrity for the life of a loved one. He suffers so much throughout this story and my heart breaks for him as tragedy after tragedy befalls him. At the core of it, he is a good man, with strong morals and an upright sense of honor. It drives him to do the things he does even if that does not keep the nightmares at bay.
I am in awe of Thamsine. She is thrust into a world where betrayal is a common currency and she has no one to trust. The one person she does choose to trust betrays her and sets her on a path much like Kit's. Thamsine is a survivor. She's strong and she has hope. While she finds herself in dire circumstances, driven by desperation, she does what she can to survive. In fact, she's so strong, she makes my teeth ache. I could never be the person she is, to have endured all she endured, suffered what she suffered and still stay the caring, compassionate person she is.
I don't normally mention the villain of the story, but Morton was a very villainous villain. He was evil to the core and deserved everything he got for all the pain and suffering he inflicted. Ms Stuart did a great job painting him with a very black brush. He had no redeeming qualities whatsoever.
Ms Stuart has once again managed to bring the English Civil War to life in this story and I look forward to the next in the series. I'm certain it will be another stunning read.
This reads more like a historical fiction with touches of romance (enough to make my romantic heart glad) then a historical romance but it is brilliantly written and thoughtfully presented.
The English Civil War is a terrible time in England's history, where brother turned against brother, neighbours sold each other out and friends became enemies. This is the setting we find Kit and Thamsine in, thrust in a play beyond their control, where betrayals were common and trust was a precious and often lost commodity.
Kit is everything the book says he is - a scoundrel, a rogue and a charmer, but he also has a secret agenda and is beholden to a very powerful man, unable to control the ebbs and flows of his own life. We see Kit struggle with his integrity as he dances to a puppet master's tune and ache for him as he tries without success to do what is right, living with his conscience and believing that he is trading his integrity for the life of a loved one. He suffers so much throughout this story and my heart breaks for him as tragedy after tragedy befalls him. At the core of it, he is a good man, with strong morals and an upright sense of honor. It drives him to do the things he does even if that does not keep the nightmares at bay.
I am in awe of Thamsine. She is thrust into a world where betrayal is a common currency and she has no one to trust. The one person she does choose to trust betrays her and sets her on a path much like Kit's. Thamsine is a survivor. She's strong and she has hope. While she finds herself in dire circumstances, driven by desperation, she does what she can to survive. In fact, she's so strong, she makes my teeth ache. I could never be the person she is, to have endured all she endured, suffered what she suffered and still stay the caring, compassionate person she is.
I don't normally mention the villain of the story, but Morton was a very villainous villain. He was evil to the core and deserved everything he got for all the pain and suffering he inflicted. Ms Stuart did a great job painting him with a very black brush. He had no redeeming qualities whatsoever.
Ms Stuart has once again managed to bring the English Civil War to life in this story and I look forward to the next in the series. I'm certain it will be another stunning read.
November 19, 2015
I keep enjoying Stuart’s works, one after the other. I really need to get to the one I have on hold as from the trend she’s been following, I think I’ll enjoy it. She excels in this addition as well. Her emotional resonance and ability to take her readers on an amazing, romantic journey always pleases.
I haven’t had a historical romance take me on as powerful an emotional journey as this one did in a while. All the trials that Kit and Thamsine go through, from kidnapping to jail time in the Tower of London to near-death experiences, all build up to a truly jaw-dropping amount of crying and soaring on the wings of happiness. To me, high-emotional content is key to a historical romance succeeding, and Stuart pleases on that front.
She also, again, takes care with her historical details for setting her scene and background for her story. She details the lives of the regular Joe Blows in London, bringing that human-filled, stinky, and vibrant world to life. She also draws on little known plots against Cromwell and the Parliamentary government to give action and suspense to her romantic tale.
As I mentioned before, I love Kit’s and Thamsine’s romantic relationship. They play off each other well, sparking with tension and depth not present in every relationship. However, they’re also strong as individuals.
I loved Thamsin’s strength of character and courage, willing to brave living on the streets and degradation rather than marry the abusive man her father betrothed her to. Kit is a man caught in truly trying circumstances, forced into actions he’d rather not take due to the side of the conflict he was on and forced to do truly horrible things to those he loves as a result. They even lead to some deaths which are truly heavy burdens to bear for Kit. Yet, he meets this with strength of character and firm sense of honor that I enjoyed.
This is another work I’d highly recommend to historical romance lovers from Stuart’s talented pen/computer keyboard. Her characters are strong in their own right and play off each other to create at moving romance. She also backs that all up with great historical details. Don’t hesitate to pick this title up! It’s a great find.
I haven’t had a historical romance take me on as powerful an emotional journey as this one did in a while. All the trials that Kit and Thamsine go through, from kidnapping to jail time in the Tower of London to near-death experiences, all build up to a truly jaw-dropping amount of crying and soaring on the wings of happiness. To me, high-emotional content is key to a historical romance succeeding, and Stuart pleases on that front.
She also, again, takes care with her historical details for setting her scene and background for her story. She details the lives of the regular Joe Blows in London, bringing that human-filled, stinky, and vibrant world to life. She also draws on little known plots against Cromwell and the Parliamentary government to give action and suspense to her romantic tale.
As I mentioned before, I love Kit’s and Thamsine’s romantic relationship. They play off each other well, sparking with tension and depth not present in every relationship. However, they’re also strong as individuals.
I loved Thamsin’s strength of character and courage, willing to brave living on the streets and degradation rather than marry the abusive man her father betrothed her to. Kit is a man caught in truly trying circumstances, forced into actions he’d rather not take due to the side of the conflict he was on and forced to do truly horrible things to those he loves as a result. They even lead to some deaths which are truly heavy burdens to bear for Kit. Yet, he meets this with strength of character and firm sense of honor that I enjoyed.
This is another work I’d highly recommend to historical romance lovers from Stuart’s talented pen/computer keyboard. Her characters are strong in their own right and play off each other to create at moving romance. She also backs that all up with great historical details. Don’t hesitate to pick this title up! It’s a great find.
September 19, 2015
MS Stuart has never disappointed me with her stories and this one is a fabulous read with an adventure and romance set during hard times in England when Charles Stuart king of England is in exile in France and Cromwell is leading England there are of course problems within families and friends as the people take sides and government leaders and the people do what they must to survive.
Thamsine Granville has lost everything she is on the run from the man who would have her as a wife she has not eaten properly in days and in total frustration when she sees the man who is after her she throws a brickbat at none other than Cromwell himself this is so out of character for this well breed Lady, but there is someone else watching her from the crowd and when Thamsine is plucked from the throng of people and rescued by this man her life will change forever.
Captain Christopher Lovell otherwise known as Kit has been through wars exile and so much in his life forced to do things that he is not happy doing but must to save his brother, he gambles to earn money lives of his mistress and is a loyal King's Man plotting to kill Cromwell he has very few friends although lots of acquaintances and he moves around London a lot he is half French and he is a gentleman but the day that he saves Thamsine will alter his life.
I loved this story the emotion and hardships of the day are bought to life on the pages as Kit and Thamsine journey a rough and rocky path filled with treason danger murder and love to find happiness this is a story that will have you crying and feeling so happy for them as they overcome all that is thrown in their path and get their freedom to enjoy their lives. This is the second story in The Guardians of The Crown series and I do highly recommend both of the stories so far and I am very much looking forward to the third one in the series later on this year.
Thank you MS Stuart for another fabulous read one that will be on the keeper shelf and read many times over.
Thamsine Granville has lost everything she is on the run from the man who would have her as a wife she has not eaten properly in days and in total frustration when she sees the man who is after her she throws a brickbat at none other than Cromwell himself this is so out of character for this well breed Lady, but there is someone else watching her from the crowd and when Thamsine is plucked from the throng of people and rescued by this man her life will change forever.
Captain Christopher Lovell otherwise known as Kit has been through wars exile and so much in his life forced to do things that he is not happy doing but must to save his brother, he gambles to earn money lives of his mistress and is a loyal King's Man plotting to kill Cromwell he has very few friends although lots of acquaintances and he moves around London a lot he is half French and he is a gentleman but the day that he saves Thamsine will alter his life.
I loved this story the emotion and hardships of the day are bought to life on the pages as Kit and Thamsine journey a rough and rocky path filled with treason danger murder and love to find happiness this is a story that will have you crying and feeling so happy for them as they overcome all that is thrown in their path and get their freedom to enjoy their lives. This is the second story in The Guardians of The Crown series and I do highly recommend both of the stories so far and I am very much looking forward to the third one in the series later on this year.
Thank you MS Stuart for another fabulous read one that will be on the keeper shelf and read many times over.
October 9, 2015
5 Fangs
It's London 1654. King Charles is in exile and Cromwell is leading England. There are people that want to restore the King to his rightful place and get rid of Cromwell. Kit Lovell is in on the planning of how to do this. Thamsine has been on the run for the last six months. In desperation she throws a brick bat at Cromwells carriage. Now she is wanted for attempted murder. Kit comes to her rescue and even finds her work and a place to stay. The two end up in a whirlwind of secrets and espionage.
This book is part of a trilogy but can be read alone. I did not read the first book and it did not affect this book but I would like to read the others now. This book is very well written. The characters work great with each other. I liked that Kit was a ladies man but he was not perfect. He had scars and wasn't the biggest or strongest. There book had little twists and turns so you didn't know what would happen or where the story was going. It kept you reading to find out what happens.
I would recommend this book to any one who enjoys historical romance. Reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors that Rock.Y
It's London 1654. King Charles is in exile and Cromwell is leading England. There are people that want to restore the King to his rightful place and get rid of Cromwell. Kit Lovell is in on the planning of how to do this. Thamsine has been on the run for the last six months. In desperation she throws a brick bat at Cromwells carriage. Now she is wanted for attempted murder. Kit comes to her rescue and even finds her work and a place to stay. The two end up in a whirlwind of secrets and espionage.
This book is part of a trilogy but can be read alone. I did not read the first book and it did not affect this book but I would like to read the others now. This book is very well written. The characters work great with each other. I liked that Kit was a ladies man but he was not perfect. He had scars and wasn't the biggest or strongest. There book had little twists and turns so you didn't know what would happen or where the story was going. It kept you reading to find out what happens.
I would recommend this book to any one who enjoys historical romance. Reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors that Rock.Y
January 9, 2017
Really excellent book. Set in 1659 England - an era that I am finding very interesting and a time period that I have never read about before. Beautifully written with lots of research that has gone into the Historical period - eg the clothes and the stench of living in London - and the poverty of the people. Real life characters are throughout the book and lots of the events recorded actually happened. The romance weaves through the book and is what drives the characters to make their choices, but it is not at the forefront of this book - the story is the focus. Lots of drama and heartbreak as well.
This is number 2 in a series about 3 friends that fought for the King's side in the English civil war. This book can be read as a stand-alone, but for full reading enjoyment I would recommend you start at number one. (By the Sword) I am currently reading the third book (Exile's return) and you really need to read the first 2 before reading number three because all the previous characters are featured and their stories are wound up. 4.5 stars and I really recommend this book and series.
This is number 2 in a series about 3 friends that fought for the King's side in the English civil war. This book can be read as a stand-alone, but for full reading enjoyment I would recommend you start at number one. (By the Sword) I am currently reading the third book (Exile's return) and you really need to read the first 2 before reading number three because all the previous characters are featured and their stories are wound up. 4.5 stars and I really recommend this book and series.
September 28, 2015
The King's Man (Guardians of the Crown Book 2) Kindle Edition by Alison Stuart
It is London in 1654 and Kit Lovell is one of the King’s men and he spends time cheating on playing card, plotting the death of Oliver Cromwell, and playing with his mistress.
Thamsine Granville finds herself broke, she has money coming to her but the only way she can get it is by marrying the man that has a hold on it. Terrified, in pain and alone she hurls brick at Oliver Cromwell. She could be sentenced to death for that. Fortunately for her Kit sees her and quick thinking saves her.
This story goes on with Thamsine and Kit being put in a prison, how they handle their lives after being out. You must read and it is a wonderful wrote story.
The way it is wrote you can visualize what is happening at that time period in a life that we are so removed from. A different time, a different land but people who are real.
It is London in 1654 and Kit Lovell is one of the King’s men and he spends time cheating on playing card, plotting the death of Oliver Cromwell, and playing with his mistress.
Thamsine Granville finds herself broke, she has money coming to her but the only way she can get it is by marrying the man that has a hold on it. Terrified, in pain and alone she hurls brick at Oliver Cromwell. She could be sentenced to death for that. Fortunately for her Kit sees her and quick thinking saves her.
This story goes on with Thamsine and Kit being put in a prison, how they handle their lives after being out. You must read and it is a wonderful wrote story.
The way it is wrote you can visualize what is happening at that time period in a life that we are so removed from. A different time, a different land but people who are real.
September 19, 2015
Ms. Stuart has splendidly written a historical romance that takes place during a turbulent period. Despite this her characters are so wonderful we know men in the era were strong but she has made the heroine extremely strong and that is not easy to do. Kit Lovell and Thamsine Granville meet when she is recued by him from soldiers. She falls a little in love with him then realizes he will betray her. A very intriguing story with just enough history and lots of everything a historical romance reader would want. Second of a series but you can read it alone however will find yourself going back for the first.
January 10, 2013
I love Alison Stuart's stories. They're full of depth with lots of fascinating characters. In this one, she has you love a man who's lost his self-respect and honour and has no love for himself. I wish I knew how she did that :) Thamsine, the heroine, is so strong. In a time when women are often portrayed as insipid and vacuous, Alison Stuart makes her women strong, independent and opinionated... And I love them!!
September 15, 2015
"The King's Man (Guardian's of the Crown Book 2)" by Alison Stuart is my first read by this author. I enjoyed this story very much and want to go back to read the first book in this series. The author does an amazing job with details, and people in the book. You will not have to read the first one in order to be able to follow along in this story.
October 3, 2015
An enjoyable tale and the ensuing attachment between Thamsine and Kit was captivating. The added characters of May and Nan had the heartstrings pulling with their camaraderie and support. Double crossings, mayhem and a bit of romance, this book was entertaining throughout!
4 stars
Review copy received from the Publisher
4 stars
Review copy received from the Publisher
December 19, 2015
I haven't read an historical I've enjoyed as much as this one in a long time. I hated not being able to sit down and read the whole thing straight through because life kept getting in the way! This story is a great mix of political intrigue, romance and suspense and based on an actual event-which I thoroughly loved. Looking forward to reading the rest of the stories in this series!
January 4, 2016
A little different perspective on a hero/heroine, who both must trade their allegiances in order to survive during Oliver Cromwell's governance of England as Lord Protector. The ending hints at a sequel.
July 17, 2011
Lots of fun.. the protagonist is Kit Lovell, a wonderfull angst ridden but terribly heroic and sexy cavalier.
October 10, 2015
Review to follow.
May 26, 2025
I always liked Kit but, although he’s good at cards, life has dealt him a hard hand which gives him impossible choices to make. Luckily redemption arrives in the person a good strong woman.
January 14, 2013
Review coming soon!
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