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The Chastelayne Trilogy #1
In Honor Bound
In this beautifully written medieval novel, Prince Philip Chastelayne burns the bridges of his life, and finds one woman, Rosalynde, his loyal wife, who will show him that he needs God's forgiveness in his heart
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1997
38 people are currently reading
309 people want to read
About the author
DeAnna Julie Dodson
50 books93 followersDeAnna Julie Dodson has always been an avid reader and a lover of storytelling, whether on the page, the screen or the stage. This, along with her keen interest in history and her Christian faith, shows in her tales of love, forgiveness and triumph over adversity. A fifth-generation Texan, she makes her home north of Dallas with four spoiled cats and, when not writing, spends her free time quilting, cross stitching and watching NHL hockey. Her first books, In Honor Bound, By Love Redeemed and To Grace Surrendered, are a trilogy of medieval romances and have just been redesigned and freshly edited for Kindle. She is also the author of the contemporary mystery, Letters in the Attic, and has recently signed on to write another Annie's Attic Mystery: The Key in the Attic, due out in 2012. Her newest books, yet to be released, are A Dinner of Herbs, a Civil War drama, and a 1930s English mystery, Rules of Murder. Civil as an Orange, her current work in progress, is the sequel to Rules of Murder. You can find out more about DeAnna and her books, including sample chapters, at her website: http://www.deannajuliedodson.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
January 9, 2017
Okay so it took me a while to think this book through enough to rate it and review it. This is not an in-depth review. The one warning I have? The couple is married and marital issues are dealt with. This book got pretty physical at times and probably would make some young readers uncomfortable
+1 star - For Roslyn's unconditional love toward her unloving husband.
+2 star - For breaking away from the mold of "arranged marriages were always horrid"
+3 star - Tackling some tough issues without being crass about it.
- 4 star - Perspective changes without warning and a lot of extra material that should have been cut.
- 5 start - If Phillip really had loved Kate and been the honorable man he said he was, he should have acted more like it. I didn't think it made as much sense as the author thought to keep "that" a secret.
+1 star - For Roslyn's unconditional love toward her unloving husband.
+2 star - For breaking away from the mold of "arranged marriages were always horrid"
+3 star - Tackling some tough issues without being crass about it.
- 4 star - Perspective changes without warning and a lot of extra material that should have been cut.
- 5 start - If Phillip really had loved Kate and been the honorable man he said he was, he should have acted more like it. I didn't think it made as much sense as the author thought to keep "that" a secret.
July 19, 2016
Though I have known about the Chastelayne Trilogy for some time I only recently began reading it due to some (mostly unfounded) reservations. Quite simple it is one of the best Christian Historical novels I have ever read, and the most Historically Accurate, or perhaps I should rather say Historically authentic, as the novel is not set in a real place/time.
Having said this, a number of the characters and events have their basis in real Historical figures and events, for instance Prince Philip’s character is undoubtedly based upon King Henry V (the fifth) of England, and his father’s deposition of the King to take the throne for himself resembles the circumstances surrounding the real King Henry V’s father obtaining the throne of England in 1399. The civil war in The Kingdom of Lynaleigh that results from this act also mirrors the aftermath of this event in English history.
One of the major issues that I have with many Historical novels is that the authors fails to appreciate the past on its own terms, and instead they impose anachronistic modern standards, values, attitudes, beliefs, concepts and often morality onto past eras, in which the all of these were actually very different from out own.
Deanna Dodson is one on the rare authors that largely does not do this, and in doing so displays an understanding and appreciation for alongside simple knowledge of the past. It is easy to cram a novel with specialist terms and historical details, but it is not so easy to write a story in which the characters are truly of the time in which the story is set.
Deanna does this marvelously, right down to the speech and language of the characters. In many Historical novels the characters speech is far too modern to be plausible, or is littered with out-of-place modern terms and phrases. It is not so here.
Of course the author has none gone too and had her characters speaking Middle English, or a langauge so archaic as to be incomprehensible. On the other hand it is historically plausible, includes actual period terms and phrases, and just sounds right.
The characters act within the constraints and expectations of their period and age, and the author tackles contentious subjects such as arranged marriage and gender roles largely without being contemptuously dismissive or judgemental of such practices and ideas.
Rosalynde the heroine is intelligent, spunky and knows own mind and is no shrinking violet or damsel in distress, but neither did the author feel the need to make her an over militant stroppy smarty pants with a chip on her shoulder who has to prove she is just as good as the men by donning armour or using a sword like an expert soldier. Instead Rosalynde displays her strength in her own way, and within the social expectations and behaviour of noble woman in this period.
Honour, duty and perceptions of public shame and reputation were acutely importing in the Medieval aristocratic society in which the characters live, and are cleverly worked into the novel as central features of the plot.
The only historical problems I spotted were some references to characters eating potatoes, which were not introduced to Britain until a century or so after the period when this story is set, and mention of cannons, and other such pierces of ammunition which were accurate and effective, when 15th century ammunition was notorious for being inaccurate, unreliable and often ineffective, even dangerous.
I also liked the way that Miss Dodson’s characters were not afraid tell the truth, or speak frankly about Christian concepts such as sin, salvation and the necessity of redemption. The honesty of Tom, younger brother of the Hero King Philip is particularly endearing, as he is never afraid to speak the truth and even rebuke his brother even doing so might be unwelcome or cause offence.
Only one passage was problematic in terms of religious content, this was one short scene in which Prince Philip knelt down in front of a statue of Jesus to pray, which could be objectionable to most Protestant Christians. Other than this, there were no real issues.
There is some ‘romantic’ content in this novel, but I did not think there were any full on sex-scenes. The author stopped short of actually describing anything in graphic detail, and certainly does not go as far as other authors in this regard.
Altogether and rare and excellent novel with maintains it’s integrity as a well-told and plausible story that is not ‘preachy’ or ‘clichéd’, but also does not compromise, conceal or ‘water-down’ the Christian content and ideas.
Having said this, a number of the characters and events have their basis in real Historical figures and events, for instance Prince Philip’s character is undoubtedly based upon King Henry V (the fifth) of England, and his father’s deposition of the King to take the throne for himself resembles the circumstances surrounding the real King Henry V’s father obtaining the throne of England in 1399. The civil war in The Kingdom of Lynaleigh that results from this act also mirrors the aftermath of this event in English history.
One of the major issues that I have with many Historical novels is that the authors fails to appreciate the past on its own terms, and instead they impose anachronistic modern standards, values, attitudes, beliefs, concepts and often morality onto past eras, in which the all of these were actually very different from out own.
Deanna Dodson is one on the rare authors that largely does not do this, and in doing so displays an understanding and appreciation for alongside simple knowledge of the past. It is easy to cram a novel with specialist terms and historical details, but it is not so easy to write a story in which the characters are truly of the time in which the story is set.
Deanna does this marvelously, right down to the speech and language of the characters. In many Historical novels the characters speech is far too modern to be plausible, or is littered with out-of-place modern terms and phrases. It is not so here.
Of course the author has none gone too and had her characters speaking Middle English, or a langauge so archaic as to be incomprehensible. On the other hand it is historically plausible, includes actual period terms and phrases, and just sounds right.
The characters act within the constraints and expectations of their period and age, and the author tackles contentious subjects such as arranged marriage and gender roles largely without being contemptuously dismissive or judgemental of such practices and ideas.
Rosalynde the heroine is intelligent, spunky and knows own mind and is no shrinking violet or damsel in distress, but neither did the author feel the need to make her an over militant stroppy smarty pants with a chip on her shoulder who has to prove she is just as good as the men by donning armour or using a sword like an expert soldier. Instead Rosalynde displays her strength in her own way, and within the social expectations and behaviour of noble woman in this period.
Honour, duty and perceptions of public shame and reputation were acutely importing in the Medieval aristocratic society in which the characters live, and are cleverly worked into the novel as central features of the plot.
The only historical problems I spotted were some references to characters eating potatoes, which were not introduced to Britain until a century or so after the period when this story is set, and mention of cannons, and other such pierces of ammunition which were accurate and effective, when 15th century ammunition was notorious for being inaccurate, unreliable and often ineffective, even dangerous.
I also liked the way that Miss Dodson’s characters were not afraid tell the truth, or speak frankly about Christian concepts such as sin, salvation and the necessity of redemption. The honesty of Tom, younger brother of the Hero King Philip is particularly endearing, as he is never afraid to speak the truth and even rebuke his brother even doing so might be unwelcome or cause offence.
Only one passage was problematic in terms of religious content, this was one short scene in which Prince Philip knelt down in front of a statue of Jesus to pray, which could be objectionable to most Protestant Christians. Other than this, there were no real issues.
There is some ‘romantic’ content in this novel, but I did not think there were any full on sex-scenes. The author stopped short of actually describing anything in graphic detail, and certainly does not go as far as other authors in this regard.
Altogether and rare and excellent novel with maintains it’s integrity as a well-told and plausible story that is not ‘preachy’ or ‘clichéd’, but also does not compromise, conceal or ‘water-down’ the Christian content and ideas.
January 30, 2012
I have read this whole wonderful trilogy. I really loved every book, the whole era and atmosphere are just what Im looking for in a medieval story.
This first book In Honor Bound (The Chastelayne Trilogy) has the ability to really make you feel that you are experiencing era.
Rosalynde young woman has been promised to prince Phillip. Rosalynde has lead a sheltered Faithful Christian life . She has great faith and hopes to be a good bride to her husband. Long ago she had meet him when he was a boy and its that boy she remembers fondly. Filled with joy she marries Phillip, only to find he has turned bitter and harsh, because of a passed love that his father the king had destroyed.
Phillip was in love with a serving girl and because of her Low birth the king had charges brought agents her. Phillip Tells Rosalynde that he will never love her and he has no real desire to be with her, his heart belongs to another.
That's about all of the story I want to give away. This is a fantastic Christian fiction story of a woman's faith and strength in conquering seemingly insurmountable obstacle's with the help of the lord. Rosalynde must face many challenges and develop her faith and grow in wisdom. She must endure the unendurable and face her husbands many moods before her dreams can be realized.
This Trilogy is not only inspirational but wonderfully entertaining and interesting. You really get an idea of what it was like to live in medieval times, in tragedy and triumph and how the faith of one woman can change the direction of an entire kingdom .
I recommend this book highly not only for the Christian reader but for anyone who likes medieval romance
This first book In Honor Bound (The Chastelayne Trilogy) has the ability to really make you feel that you are experiencing era.
Rosalynde young woman has been promised to prince Phillip. Rosalynde has lead a sheltered Faithful Christian life . She has great faith and hopes to be a good bride to her husband. Long ago she had meet him when he was a boy and its that boy she remembers fondly. Filled with joy she marries Phillip, only to find he has turned bitter and harsh, because of a passed love that his father the king had destroyed.
Phillip was in love with a serving girl and because of her Low birth the king had charges brought agents her. Phillip Tells Rosalynde that he will never love her and he has no real desire to be with her, his heart belongs to another.
That's about all of the story I want to give away. This is a fantastic Christian fiction story of a woman's faith and strength in conquering seemingly insurmountable obstacle's with the help of the lord. Rosalynde must face many challenges and develop her faith and grow in wisdom. She must endure the unendurable and face her husbands many moods before her dreams can be realized.
This Trilogy is not only inspirational but wonderfully entertaining and interesting. You really get an idea of what it was like to live in medieval times, in tragedy and triumph and how the faith of one woman can change the direction of an entire kingdom .
I recommend this book highly not only for the Christian reader but for anyone who likes medieval romance
August 24, 2010
3.5 stars. I liked this book, but it feels like it's been awhile since I've LOVED a book...not trying to be irritating with all of the 3 star average ratings! :)
So this was a good read, clean as far as content. The main characters are married and there is plenty of talk about their physical attraction and you know that they have sex, but everything is completely closed door. The Christian elements in it are pretty heavy at times, but not in a way that felt too preachy or irritating.
Honestly, the only thing preventing me from rating this higher is that too many key scenes happened "off stage". For example, the author would take a vital conversation and just say something like, "They talked into the night and shared their feelings with each other." (Okay, so it was better than that, but you get the point) I don't want to be told that they had a conversation...I want to HEAR the actual conversation. If that wouldn't have been an issue throughout the book, it probably would have been at least a 4 star book.
I won't be buying it, but I'll check out the next two in the series from the library.
So this was a good read, clean as far as content. The main characters are married and there is plenty of talk about their physical attraction and you know that they have sex, but everything is completely closed door. The Christian elements in it are pretty heavy at times, but not in a way that felt too preachy or irritating.
Honestly, the only thing preventing me from rating this higher is that too many key scenes happened "off stage". For example, the author would take a vital conversation and just say something like, "They talked into the night and shared their feelings with each other." (Okay, so it was better than that, but you get the point) I don't want to be told that they had a conversation...I want to HEAR the actual conversation. If that wouldn't have been an issue throughout the book, it probably would have been at least a 4 star book.
I won't be buying it, but I'll check out the next two in the series from the library.
June 6, 2013
This one was as almost as good as By Love Redeemed (which I read 1st, though it is second in series -- didn't know it was a series) but author could have condensed Philip's agonizing. A thoughtful depiction of what pure love is.
November 21, 2007
I have never read a Medieval story that I've enjoyed as much as this one. Ever. Maybe because the passion in this novel is so real and so impressive that it left me breathless more than once! Heck, I was in love with Philip! In Honor Bound was such a great story, in fact, that I read the book in just three days (and if I hadn't had to work I would've finished it sooner.)
There is so much depth to In Honor Bound. The characters are incredibly well done. The conflict was so good that it literally had me turning the pages. The love story was so intense. The marriage, the bedroom tension, the romance, wow! I felt no watering down of passion, no lukewarmness of faith or storyline. This was a powerful novel that invoked so much emotion in me, I just loved every minute of it. And that unconditional love Rosalynde had for Philip was truly admirable and Christ-like.
I felt so badly for Philip in the beginning of this book. I was so swept up into this novel that the pain in my heart for this man couldn't seem more real. His grief was so well done as was the coldness of heart in order to cope with the pain. Nothing in this story felt contrived at all. These characters were so real to me. I experienced the same pain of betrayal as Philip.
Plus, the male POV was so expertly done! I didn't think Philip would ever get past the excruciating emotional damage, but through the story and one conflict at a time, you could see God's hand on Philip's life. But his pride almost cost him everything. The scene where he finally gives everything to the Lord took my breath away. It was that awesome and realistic. Oh, and the blood and guts were pretty powerful to the storyline, too. There's no pussyfooting around the issues and sanitizing of the brutality in that era done here. The author used all of the senses and the description was so well done I truly felt like I was pulled into the story itself.
I used to read a lot of these types of books but they were often too descriptive in the sex department. However, this story is so beautifully written and emotionally deep that I have yet to read a more romantic tale that includes the husbandly duties to his wife. Fabulous, passionate, intense fiction. That's what In Honor Bound was for me. In fact, I enjoyed the fantasy world so much that I plan to read the next two books in the series as well. This series sucked me in as much as Francine Rivers's Mark of the Lion Series. It's THAT good.
There is so much depth to In Honor Bound. The characters are incredibly well done. The conflict was so good that it literally had me turning the pages. The love story was so intense. The marriage, the bedroom tension, the romance, wow! I felt no watering down of passion, no lukewarmness of faith or storyline. This was a powerful novel that invoked so much emotion in me, I just loved every minute of it. And that unconditional love Rosalynde had for Philip was truly admirable and Christ-like.
I felt so badly for Philip in the beginning of this book. I was so swept up into this novel that the pain in my heart for this man couldn't seem more real. His grief was so well done as was the coldness of heart in order to cope with the pain. Nothing in this story felt contrived at all. These characters were so real to me. I experienced the same pain of betrayal as Philip.
Plus, the male POV was so expertly done! I didn't think Philip would ever get past the excruciating emotional damage, but through the story and one conflict at a time, you could see God's hand on Philip's life. But his pride almost cost him everything. The scene where he finally gives everything to the Lord took my breath away. It was that awesome and realistic. Oh, and the blood and guts were pretty powerful to the storyline, too. There's no pussyfooting around the issues and sanitizing of the brutality in that era done here. The author used all of the senses and the description was so well done I truly felt like I was pulled into the story itself.
I used to read a lot of these types of books but they were often too descriptive in the sex department. However, this story is so beautifully written and emotionally deep that I have yet to read a more romantic tale that includes the husbandly duties to his wife. Fabulous, passionate, intense fiction. That's what In Honor Bound was for me. In fact, I enjoyed the fantasy world so much that I plan to read the next two books in the series as well. This series sucked me in as much as Francine Rivers's Mark of the Lion Series. It's THAT good.
May 12, 2011
A prince who would be king, haunted by tragedies that cause him to harden his heart against God. When King Robert is captured, Prince Philip must rally the army to free his father, the king, and protect the people from an evil usurper. Prince Philip knows it will take all his strength, training, & resources to fight for the throne - but can he fight an unknown enemy from within the palace without God's help?
Lady Rosalynde fell in love with Philip when she first met him, placing him on a pedestal and vowing she will marry no other. When King Robert forces Prince Philip to marry Rosalynde to ensure her father's support, she is surprised at the changes she see in Philip. Gone is the easy, smiling, care-free man she knew from their first meeting. Instead she discovers Philip is now an icy-hearted man who tells her on their wedding night that he will never love her. As Philip's anger against God grows, Rosalynde turns to her faith in God to help her understand and cope with Philip's coldness and quick change in temperament.
DeAnna Julie Dodson's first book in a trilogy, "In Honor Bound" is full of fascinating characters, devotion, treachery, and God's enduring love. DeAnna's descriptions paint vivid pictures for the reader with tender love scenes and exciting battles. I highly recommend "In Honor Bound" to everyone.
You can find more information about author DeAnna Julie Dodson by visiting her website, www.deannajuliedodson.com.
Lady Rosalynde fell in love with Philip when she first met him, placing him on a pedestal and vowing she will marry no other. When King Robert forces Prince Philip to marry Rosalynde to ensure her father's support, she is surprised at the changes she see in Philip. Gone is the easy, smiling, care-free man she knew from their first meeting. Instead she discovers Philip is now an icy-hearted man who tells her on their wedding night that he will never love her. As Philip's anger against God grows, Rosalynde turns to her faith in God to help her understand and cope with Philip's coldness and quick change in temperament.
DeAnna Julie Dodson's first book in a trilogy, "In Honor Bound" is full of fascinating characters, devotion, treachery, and God's enduring love. DeAnna's descriptions paint vivid pictures for the reader with tender love scenes and exciting battles. I highly recommend "In Honor Bound" to everyone.
You can find more information about author DeAnna Julie Dodson by visiting her website, www.deannajuliedodson.com.
December 14, 2018
This book is greatly about a king and 4 sons; two of which died in battle, leaving Tom and Philip. Their father had usurped the kingdom by having his brother imprisoned. Later the brother died in his cell. Philip never trusted his father because of it. The brothers pledged their allegiance, but it was simply out of duty.
Many years before, when they all visited another kingdom, they were introduced to two of that king's daughters who were younger teenagers. Rosalynde, the younger one, instantly fell in love with Philip and for years kept that love alive, although he never knew it and they rarely saw one another. Philip, in the meantime, deeply loved and secretly married a serving girl and tried to get his king to accept his love for her, which of course he didn't because their union would taint the bloodline. Her tragic death left him heartbroken, fiercely hating his father, and turned his back on God.
I don't want to give more away because it's too good and I've probably said too much.
I really liked this book. It has the true feeling of a book written many years ago, and with all the conquering battles, and pledges, and fits of rage, and loyalties, it just seemed so real.
I thought to give it a 4-star rating because I reserve 5 stars for something I will not soon forget, and which really gripped me. After thinking about it, that is exactly what this book was, so I changed it to 5.
Many years before, when they all visited another kingdom, they were introduced to two of that king's daughters who were younger teenagers. Rosalynde, the younger one, instantly fell in love with Philip and for years kept that love alive, although he never knew it and they rarely saw one another. Philip, in the meantime, deeply loved and secretly married a serving girl and tried to get his king to accept his love for her, which of course he didn't because their union would taint the bloodline. Her tragic death left him heartbroken, fiercely hating his father, and turned his back on God.
I don't want to give more away because it's too good and I've probably said too much.
I really liked this book. It has the true feeling of a book written many years ago, and with all the conquering battles, and pledges, and fits of rage, and loyalties, it just seemed so real.
I thought to give it a 4-star rating because I reserve 5 stars for something I will not soon forget, and which really gripped me. After thinking about it, that is exactly what this book was, so I changed it to 5.
December 31, 2013
This was a great adventure story ruined by a mediocre romance. Although there were things about this book that I admired and appreciated, I just didn't enjoy it. The first half was really good, the story about the the royal family relationships and politics was original and intriguing, and the battles were exciting. However, the romance fell flat and was just a long "meh" interupted by an "eww" whenever poor Philip gave into his lust and got mushy with the hideous Rosalynde. I found the "heroine" (using that word very loosely) totally blah and unlikable and merely making her conniving, manipulative, and opportunistic did not make her a well-rounded nor appealing character. The flawed hero was a much better drawn and sympathetic character but the poor tortured soul certainly deserved better than that ninny, even when he turned into a lust-addled fool. Around the 70% mark I had totally had it with this book and it became just a misery to finish and get it out of my hair. If only some kind editor had totally deleted the drippy Rosalynde and every mention of thepoorly-conceived romance, then this would have been a much shorter, faster, and exciting read. The best thing about this book is that I finally finished it and can now move on.
December 5, 2011
Just looking at the cover art, I probably wouldn't have given it a second look, but thank goodness I read the blurb - that at least piqued my interest enough to read it.
The plot is intricate. There is much that happens, that in hindsight makes a lot of sense, but blindsided me as it happened. The characters are 3-dimensional and have very real feelings.
Normally books about arranged marriages make it sound too easy. This one shows that unconditional love is hard work. LOVE, and marriage - PERIOD - is hard work. There is a lot of religious mention in this book, but it is all authentic - in midieval times religion, especially Catholicism, was very much central to everyone's lives, but the REAL relationships with God were rare. People went to mass every day, especially nobility.
Also yet another example of how the sins of the father, and certainly the mother, can have grave consequences to their children.
Loved it, and will certainly look for a copy for my own collection. I didn't think it would read so fast, but I couldn't put it down. I had to read myself to exhaustion before I could sleep!
The plot is intricate. There is much that happens, that in hindsight makes a lot of sense, but blindsided me as it happened. The characters are 3-dimensional and have very real feelings.
Normally books about arranged marriages make it sound too easy. This one shows that unconditional love is hard work. LOVE, and marriage - PERIOD - is hard work. There is a lot of religious mention in this book, but it is all authentic - in midieval times religion, especially Catholicism, was very much central to everyone's lives, but the REAL relationships with God were rare. People went to mass every day, especially nobility.
Also yet another example of how the sins of the father, and certainly the mother, can have grave consequences to their children.
Loved it, and will certainly look for a copy for my own collection. I didn't think it would read so fast, but I couldn't put it down. I had to read myself to exhaustion before I could sleep!
April 1, 2014
If you like adventure, romance, and regency-type books, I think you will love this one. I'd recommend it to anyone (guys or gals) from age sixteen up. It's a clean inspirational romance that will keep you reading past your bedtime. I know, it's a book released several years ago, but it is great.
For Rosalynde of Westered, it was love at first sight. Philip of Chastelaines's heaven-blue eyes captured her at the age of fifteen and would never let her go. Philip, on the other hand, has been assigned by his father the duty of entertaining his host's daughter, and he does for those few days the families spend on the Westered's land, further cementing Rosalynde's devotion.
But Philip later discovers his own heart's love rests on a servant girl, much to his father's dismay. As newly crowned king, he intends to wed his three sons to royalty only, and he rids his son of this servant girl by declaring her a witch and having her burned at the stake. Not the smart method to gain your son's compliance with your wishes, King.
For Rosalynde of Westered, it was love at first sight. Philip of Chastelaines's heaven-blue eyes captured her at the age of fifteen and would never let her go. Philip, on the other hand, has been assigned by his father the duty of entertaining his host's daughter, and he does for those few days the families spend on the Westered's land, further cementing Rosalynde's devotion.
But Philip later discovers his own heart's love rests on a servant girl, much to his father's dismay. As newly crowned king, he intends to wed his three sons to royalty only, and he rids his son of this servant girl by declaring her a witch and having her burned at the stake. Not the smart method to gain your son's compliance with your wishes, King.
August 21, 2013
This was a free kindle book one day, so I decided to give it a try. I couldn't put it down once I started it. It was a bit like a Francine Rivers novel set in Medieval times. The story was captivating throughout, and I liked that the Christian aspect of the book was integral to the story, not just tacked on as an afterthought. It probably deserves at least 4.5 stars.
January 10, 2013
An excellent study of one's man constant devotion which quickly turns to arrogant pride and one woman's unfailing love which turns into steadfast devotion. While the plot runs rather thin, the dialogue shines and the characters are well-rounded and intensely studied.
May 3, 2013
This was a truly awesome book. Rosalynde was a wonderful character and I can't wait to read the other books in this series.
June 23, 2018
This is a very good Christian historical fiction.
3.5 stars, as much of it is predicable and there are some issues I have (pointed out in my review). The story was good though, and the sequnce of events was written extremely well, so I've given this 4 stars.
The biggest thing I took from this is that fully opening ourselves to God through prayer and trust allows us to hear his voice within and around us.
There are four Chastelayne brothers: Richard, Philip, Thomas, and John. Richard, as heir, is promised to Margaret of Westered (the eldest daughter) and it's obvious that Philip and Margaret's sister Rosalynde will end up together.
But of course, there's a lot going on before then.
Tom is utterly hilarious and my favorite of the brothers. I feel like he has more honor and faith than Philip, though Philip's integrity really is more solid. He didn't even have sex with Katherine, a serving girl who he fell in love with, until he was secretly married to her.
Tom's faith though is strong.
~ Pious and dull? Those two are not synonymous.
~ His devotion to God helps pull Philip through, and I'm sure it helps strengthen the Chastelayne forces later on.
~ His words on love, patience, and forgiveness are very, very strong. I took a lot from him alone.
He is just a voice of reason, even in dire moments.
I love that the four brothers are able to jest together, even amid Margaret and Rosalynde. It's real and fun to read.
Within a year, Margaret and Richard are married. Unfortunately, the Chastelayne father, Robert, reneges on a few promises and becomes king. Robert gives Philip until an upcoming spring to at least be betrothed. This is one of the first issues that cause the two to become estranged.
Richard dies, Margaret loses her baby, Katherine is blamed and burned, Robert's wife is trampled, and an inner hell begins for Philip. His depression is real and easy to see, though some behavior is abysmal. There is emotional and physical abuse from Robert; emotional abuse from Philip to everyone who loves him; some emotional abuse from Rosalynde to Philip, although some of that is through ignorance and thus doesn't count to me; and there is even a little physical abuse from Philip which left me sick (and made the following scene not make sense to me).
It also boggles me that Rosalynde thinks Philip is "hers" even after more than four years pass. This is even true after Margaret runs to Philip's cousin Stephen of Ellenshaw. Still, Richard is determined to keep the Westered favor, so Philip and Rosalynde do marry. Unfortuately, John's death has left Philip emotionally shattered, and Rosalynde bears the brunt of his depression. He wills himself to not fall in love with her, but of course he does.
Richard becomes freaking creepy around Rosalynde and I'm glad he dies before my fears were confirmed.
Rosalynde loves Philip and prays constantly for him. Her faith is akin to Saint Monica's regarding her son Augustine. I don't know if that's where Dodson was going with that, but it's what I took out of it.
3.5 stars, as much of it is predicable and there are some issues I have (pointed out in my review). The story was good though, and the sequnce of events was written extremely well, so I've given this 4 stars.
The biggest thing I took from this is that fully opening ourselves to God through prayer and trust allows us to hear his voice within and around us.
There are four Chastelayne brothers: Richard, Philip, Thomas, and John. Richard, as heir, is promised to Margaret of Westered (the eldest daughter) and it's obvious that Philip and Margaret's sister Rosalynde will end up together.
But of course, there's a lot going on before then.
Tom is utterly hilarious and my favorite of the brothers. I feel like he has more honor and faith than Philip, though Philip's integrity really is more solid. He didn't even have sex with Katherine, a serving girl who he fell in love with, until he was secretly married to her.
Tom's faith though is strong.
~ Pious and dull? Those two are not synonymous.
~ His devotion to God helps pull Philip through, and I'm sure it helps strengthen the Chastelayne forces later on.
~ His words on love, patience, and forgiveness are very, very strong. I took a lot from him alone.
He is just a voice of reason, even in dire moments.
I love that the four brothers are able to jest together, even amid Margaret and Rosalynde. It's real and fun to read.
Within a year, Margaret and Richard are married. Unfortunately, the Chastelayne father, Robert, reneges on a few promises and becomes king. Robert gives Philip until an upcoming spring to at least be betrothed. This is one of the first issues that cause the two to become estranged.
Richard dies, Margaret loses her baby, Katherine is blamed and burned, Robert's wife is trampled, and an inner hell begins for Philip. His depression is real and easy to see, though some behavior is abysmal. There is emotional and physical abuse from Robert; emotional abuse from Philip to everyone who loves him; some emotional abuse from Rosalynde to Philip, although some of that is through ignorance and thus doesn't count to me; and there is even a little physical abuse from Philip which left me sick (and made the following scene not make sense to me).
It also boggles me that Rosalynde thinks Philip is "hers" even after more than four years pass. This is even true after Margaret runs to Philip's cousin Stephen of Ellenshaw. Still, Richard is determined to keep the Westered favor, so Philip and Rosalynde do marry. Unfortuately, John's death has left Philip emotionally shattered, and Rosalynde bears the brunt of his depression. He wills himself to not fall in love with her, but of course he does.
Richard becomes freaking creepy around Rosalynde and I'm glad he dies before my fears were confirmed.
Rosalynde loves Philip and prays constantly for him. Her faith is akin to Saint Monica's regarding her son Augustine. I don't know if that's where Dodson was going with that, but it's what I took out of it.
February 27, 2017
This is a Christian Medieval Story. This a romance between man and God, man and woman, man and family, man and country.
Philip (2nd son of Duke Robert)
and Rosalynde
met when they were still children. Rosalynde fell in love with the young prince there and then and for years she nurtured the love she had for him. During the years, Robert (Philip's father) became king and Philip was in love with Kate, a commoner (a maid). No matter how King Robert reasoned to Philip about this misalliance with a commoner, Philip was steadfast with his love for Kate. King Robert would do anything to stop his son's relationship to a commoner - to the extent of torturing and killing Kate while Philip was in prison.
King Robert's decisions regarding his family turned worse that he lost some of his sons and Philip became the next in line to rule the land. Philip became cold and bitter. He lost his faith in love when they burned Kate. He lost interest in living and loving.
Then came the decision that Philip and Rosalynde be married for political alliance. Rosalynde, still in love with the Philip she knew when she was young was in for a shock of this man she would call husband.
"I promise you three things, Lady Rosalynde, and you will find me true to my word. I will not lie to you, I will not be unfaithful to you, and I will not love you."
Rosalyn's love for Philip was so intense that it almost became an idolatry. Philip was having conflicting emotions between his loyalty to his dead beloved and for his new wife. Pride mixed with bitterness would make the couple hurt in many ways.
Tom, Philip's remaining brother, was very mature in handling family matters. He was also hurting and yet he was calm in every decision made. He was there to comfort Philip in his lowest times. He was there to rebuke his brother.
"We choose our own pain and happiness."
Certain events happened that would prove the love of Rosalynde towards Philip. And time and love would heal the pain in Philip's heart. Perhaps he might not love Rosalynde like how he loved Kate but he was given a chance to be loved and to love again.
This has heavy theme on Christian spirituality. Though there are kissing scenes and slight love making, they are not explicit. In humanistic's point of view, I felt Philip's pain. I was telling myself, if those happened to me, I might kill myself. Sigh. As a Christian woman, the impression that was given to me was: He is a jealous god. He will take that "something" or "someone" from me if I love that "something" or "someone" so much than Him.
This is my first book of this author and I really like it. I look forward to reading her other books as well.
"Non nobis, Domine, non nobis, sed nomine tuo da gloriam..."
Philip (2nd son of Duke Robert)
and Rosalynde
met when they were still children. Rosalynde fell in love with the young prince there and then and for years she nurtured the love she had for him. During the years, Robert (Philip's father) became king and Philip was in love with Kate, a commoner (a maid). No matter how King Robert reasoned to Philip about this misalliance with a commoner, Philip was steadfast with his love for Kate. King Robert would do anything to stop his son's relationship to a commoner - to the extent of torturing and killing Kate while Philip was in prison.
King Robert's decisions regarding his family turned worse that he lost some of his sons and Philip became the next in line to rule the land. Philip became cold and bitter. He lost his faith in love when they burned Kate. He lost interest in living and loving.
Then came the decision that Philip and Rosalynde be married for political alliance. Rosalynde, still in love with the Philip she knew when she was young was in for a shock of this man she would call husband.
"I promise you three things, Lady Rosalynde, and you will find me true to my word. I will not lie to you, I will not be unfaithful to you, and I will not love you."
Rosalyn's love for Philip was so intense that it almost became an idolatry. Philip was having conflicting emotions between his loyalty to his dead beloved and for his new wife. Pride mixed with bitterness would make the couple hurt in many ways.
Tom, Philip's remaining brother, was very mature in handling family matters. He was also hurting and yet he was calm in every decision made. He was there to comfort Philip in his lowest times. He was there to rebuke his brother.
"We choose our own pain and happiness."
Certain events happened that would prove the love of Rosalynde towards Philip. And time and love would heal the pain in Philip's heart. Perhaps he might not love Rosalynde like how he loved Kate but he was given a chance to be loved and to love again.
This has heavy theme on Christian spirituality. Though there are kissing scenes and slight love making, they are not explicit. In humanistic's point of view, I felt Philip's pain. I was telling myself, if those happened to me, I might kill myself. Sigh. As a Christian woman, the impression that was given to me was: He is a jealous god. He will take that "something" or "someone" from me if I love that "something" or "someone" so much than Him.
This is my first book of this author and I really like it. I look forward to reading her other books as well.
"Non nobis, Domine, non nobis, sed nomine tuo da gloriam..."
December 4, 2018
This was a gripping novel. There were plot twists several times. Negatives: too much marital intimacy for young readers. I got really tired of Phillip's spiritual struggles at the end. He could have gotten over them earlier. Different things about the ending, like that, as well as resolving their marriage conflicts the very last night possible, and her running out to him right after his public duel and then being endangered, were unrealistic. But exciting. 😀 Positives: the romance, the picture of devoted love, faithful Tom.
May 14, 2017
Another Christian book that was way too detailed… Not about faith, God, or anything like that, but about intimate aspects of marriage. I understand most people would think this a clean book. “It” is never described, but everything leading up to “it” is. There is just no call to describe the thoughts and feelings of a couple while they are in bed. I’m sorry if this isn’t very clear, but I’m trying to be delicate about what I found objectionable in it. I would have to recommend not reading it.
August 11, 2019
This would be 5 stars if not for the one scene when Philip smacks Roselynde, and she does nothing. 🤦♀️Tom is my favorite character throughout this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2016
I read the last book of this trilogy first, To Grace Surrendered (The Chastelayne Trilogy,) when I stumbled upon it at my local library. Philip's and Rosalynde's relationship was so loving and strong in that book so I wanted to read how it all started for them. I really enjoyed this story, it was hard to put down but it was also emotionally draining. I thought the author did a good job of portraying Philip's grief over Kate's death but it was so hard to see what he put Rosalynde through. It seemed like their relationship kept taking "one step forward-two steps backward." He was so cold and cruel at times, so determined to keep his vow to Kate that he would never love another. Rosalynde had the patience, faith, and love of a saint to deal with him. He was so hot and cold to her and put her through so much! Eventually, Philip realizes that he can't do everything on his own (dealing with Kate's death, loss of family members, defending his kingdom) and that God is the only One who can help him. I highly recommend this book but it is not a light read so be prepared!
April 22, 2015
This is a skillfully crafted story which follows the life of a prince who begins life as an excessively optimistic child but then is hardened by royal conspiracy. Dodson makes Prince Philip's spiral into depression believable even as it drives him to the outskirts of his kingdom to live as a commoner in effort to distract himself from the pain. What makes it really heart-rending is the way Philip denies all support from his devoted wife and brother, who are eventually forced to sit back and watch him spiral.
What makes Dodson truly great is what she does with this dark situation. There are beads of hope scattered in among the darkness that eventually burst forth and make the journey worth it. Fear not! It does end well!
What makes Dodson truly great is what she does with this dark situation. There are beads of hope scattered in among the darkness that eventually burst forth and make the journey worth it. Fear not! It does end well!
January 16, 2014
I understood and appreciated our heroine's tenacious, pure love. I loved some of the good and loyal characters like Tom, Jerome, Palmer and Rafe. I even understood why Philip was as jaded as he was, but frankly I found it exhausting to read. The choices he made to protect his pride over and over... again, exhausting. The good was there for sure, but for me not enough to outweigh the emotion ick you slug through with Philip. Trying to decide if I want to attempt book 2...
September 18, 2013
I would actually give this book a 3.5 stars. I really did not know what to expect when I started to read In Honor Bound so it was a pleasant surprise to find that the story was well written for the time period it was set in. If you enjoy medieval romance christian stories then you have found a winner. If you are not sure of the genre give it a try. This is a good story to start with.
August 3, 2015
I love medieval tales; It's my favorite genre, I think. I checked the reviews on this one and decided to take a chance. I'm sure glad I did. I loved it!
The author has created very believable characters, the period history is spot on and there's wonderful spiritual content. Very happy with this book, so much so that I immediately ordered the next 2 in the series, can't wait to read them!
The author has created very believable characters, the period history is spot on and there's wonderful spiritual content. Very happy with this book, so much so that I immediately ordered the next 2 in the series, can't wait to read them!
January 25, 2016
This book started off slow...but I really enjoyed the history feeling of the book, lots of romance and a bit of mystery thrown in there. I must admit that the hero of the story seems pretty sullen, spoiled, and hard to get along with...but there is a good ending to all of that! I was ready to wring his neck half way through the book, but persevered and was glad I did!
March 3, 2013
Pretty good story for a free Kindle download! All of the references to God might put some people off, but as a Christian I enjoyed them. Very angsty, but still good in the end. Now I see it's the first of a trilogy so I might actually have to pay money for the others.
September 12, 2014
This was free when I got it, but it is $4.99 right now. Don't read this book if you can't get through overly Christian things. The author goes on and on about Christian things in what is a medieval setting. I finished it, but I won't be getting the other books in the series.
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February 15, 2016I have absolutely no idea what to rate this. I do believe this is one of the most emotionally draining books I have ever read. I still have not decided if that is a good or a bad thing. Full review to come.
October 10, 2016
Enjoyable
Very well written book, I enjoyed it very much.. it went quickly. A sweet and patient heroine, who loved her way into the heroes icy heart. Villains and hero's who could ask for more. Thank you
Very well written book, I enjoyed it very much.. it went quickly. A sweet and patient heroine, who loved her way into the heroes icy heart. Villains and hero's who could ask for more. Thank you
August 7, 2011
Surprisingly exciting and packed with tragedy after tragedy, etc. Proof that you can't judge a book by its cover.... or its first few pages.
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