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William Marshal #3
The Scarlet Lion
Following early beginnings as a knight in the English royal household and a champion of the tourneys, William Marshal's prowess and loyalty have been rewarded by the hand in marriage of Isabelle de Clare, heiress to great estates in England, Normandy and Ireland. Now a powerful magnate, William has weathered the difficult years of King Richard's absence on crusade and is currently serving him on campaign in Normandy while Isabelle governs their estates. All the stability William and Isabelle have enjoyed with their young and growing family comes crashing down as Richard dies and his brother John becomes King. Rebellion is stirring throughout the Angevin domains and although John has created William Earl of Pembroke, the friction between the two men leads William and Isabelle to distance themselves in Ireland. The situation escalates, with John holding their sons as hostages and seizing their English lands. The conflict between remaining loyal and rebelling over injustices committed, threatens to tear apart William and Isabelle's marriage and their family
579 pages, Paperback
First published December 7, 2006
312 people are currently reading
5271 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Chadwick
48 books3,260 followersBest selling historical novelist Elizabeth Chadwick won a Betty Trask Award for her first novel The Wild Hunt. She has been shortlisted for the UK's mainstream Best Romantic Novel of the Year Award 4 times and longlisted twice. Her novel The Scarlet Lion about the great William Marshal and his wife Isabelle de Clare, has been selected by Richard Lee, founder of the Historical Novel Society as one of the landmark historical novels of the last ten years.
When not at her desk, she can be found taking long walks with the dog, baking cakes, reading books (of course!) exploring ruins, listening to various brands of rock and metal music, and occasionally slaving over a steaming cauldron with re-enactment society Regia Anglorum.
When not at her desk, she can be found taking long walks with the dog, baking cakes, reading books (of course!) exploring ruins, listening to various brands of rock and metal music, and occasionally slaving over a steaming cauldron with re-enactment society Regia Anglorum.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 367 reviews
November 22, 2025
William Marshall, Earl of Pembroke, Regent of England and the greatest knight in medieval England
Norman knight William Marshall and his Irish wife, Isabelle de Clare, are wealthy landowners forced to walk treacherous diplomatic tightropes to retain those properties in the face of King John’s machinations after his ascent to the English throne on the death of his brother King Richard. THE SCARLET LION is the extraordinary story of that struggle and Marshall's loyal support of King John’s wars against the Welsh and France’s King Phillip despite King John’s open animosity and attempts to grasp Marshall’s hereditary landholdings across England and in Ireland, Tuscany and Normandy. At a time when women were treated as little more than chattels and marriage was often a mere negotiating tactic in diplomatic treaties, William Marshall’s marriage to Isabelle de Clare was loving, enduring, and indeed, sexually fulfilling (and exceedingly fecund) from the day of the marriage until Marshall’s death as an elder statesman and regent to King John’s successor, King Henry.
Readers will also be fascinated to read of the long arm of the Roman Catholic Church’s reach from Rome, the extent of their influence on European history, and the astonishing power they held over day-to-day life in 12th and 13th century England. As a confirmed modern day atheist who understands the reality and the fact of this history, I still choked when I saw it put into plain words:
“However, the Church declared it a sin for a nursing woman to have carnal knowledge of her husband.”
“… it would have been unthinkable for a woman still bleeding from childbirth to enter a church.”
“There were potions one could take to avoid conception and various preventative methods which could be employed, but … they all carried the burden of sin.”
“The [Papal] Legate raised his voice, his French bearing the heavy accent of his native Tuscany, ‘My Lord Marshall, you seem reluctant to accept the regency, but no one here disputes that you are the best man for the charge. Perhaps if I offered you absolution for all the sins of your lifetime, it would settle your mind. No?’ The Legate couldn’t offer William gold and riches; it was not within his power to do so … but offering William a direct path to heaven at the end of his life was a bribe of genius.”
“The Legate had promised every man full remission and pardon for his sins if he fought for King Henry. The French, on the other hand, had been excommunicated and thus were bound for hell.”
Astonishing reading, from cover to cover, and, if I may say so, a wonderful companion piece to Sharon Kay Penman’s HERE BE DRAGONS which tells the story of King John’s simultaneous struggles on the western border of Norman England against Llewelyn and the Welsh.
Definitely recommended without reservation for lovers of superb historical fiction.
Paul Weiss
Norman knight William Marshall and his Irish wife, Isabelle de Clare, are wealthy landowners forced to walk treacherous diplomatic tightropes to retain those properties in the face of King John’s machinations after his ascent to the English throne on the death of his brother King Richard. THE SCARLET LION is the extraordinary story of that struggle and Marshall's loyal support of King John’s wars against the Welsh and France’s King Phillip despite King John’s open animosity and attempts to grasp Marshall’s hereditary landholdings across England and in Ireland, Tuscany and Normandy. At a time when women were treated as little more than chattels and marriage was often a mere negotiating tactic in diplomatic treaties, William Marshall’s marriage to Isabelle de Clare was loving, enduring, and indeed, sexually fulfilling (and exceedingly fecund) from the day of the marriage until Marshall’s death as an elder statesman and regent to King John’s successor, King Henry.
Readers will also be fascinated to read of the long arm of the Roman Catholic Church’s reach from Rome, the extent of their influence on European history, and the astonishing power they held over day-to-day life in 12th and 13th century England. As a confirmed modern day atheist who understands the reality and the fact of this history, I still choked when I saw it put into plain words:
“However, the Church declared it a sin for a nursing woman to have carnal knowledge of her husband.”
“… it would have been unthinkable for a woman still bleeding from childbirth to enter a church.”
“There were potions one could take to avoid conception and various preventative methods which could be employed, but … they all carried the burden of sin.”
“The [Papal] Legate raised his voice, his French bearing the heavy accent of his native Tuscany, ‘My Lord Marshall, you seem reluctant to accept the regency, but no one here disputes that you are the best man for the charge. Perhaps if I offered you absolution for all the sins of your lifetime, it would settle your mind. No?’ The Legate couldn’t offer William gold and riches; it was not within his power to do so … but offering William a direct path to heaven at the end of his life was a bribe of genius.”
“The Legate had promised every man full remission and pardon for his sins if he fought for King Henry. The French, on the other hand, had been excommunicated and thus were bound for hell.”
Astonishing reading, from cover to cover, and, if I may say so, a wonderful companion piece to Sharon Kay Penman’s HERE BE DRAGONS which tells the story of King John’s simultaneous struggles on the western border of Norman England against Llewelyn and the Welsh.
Definitely recommended without reservation for lovers of superb historical fiction.
Paul Weiss
August 20, 2008
Historical fiction just doesn't get any better than this. This is a wonderful tale of one of the most honorable men to grace this earth, William Marshal and his true partner in all things, his wife Isabelle. The first novel, Greatest Knight, covered more of William Marshal's early life as a knight and courtier. This novel covers his life with Isabel and the dangers and terrors of living in the court of the King John, and then as regent for the young Henry III. I have to admit shedding more than a few tears at the last chapter, the end of William's life.
I have read all of this author's works that I can get my hands on and I am amazed at how consistly she is improving (not that the earlier works were poorly written at all). As always with Chadwick's books, the way she brings the medieval period to life in such a graceful and effortless way, be it the sights, sounds, smells, food, clothes and battles is just awesome. As quoted on some of her book jackets, the next best thing to time travel. Five stars.
I have read all of this author's works that I can get my hands on and I am amazed at how consistly she is improving (not that the earlier works were poorly written at all). As always with Chadwick's books, the way she brings the medieval period to life in such a graceful and effortless way, be it the sights, sounds, smells, food, clothes and battles is just awesome. As quoted on some of her book jackets, the next best thing to time travel. Five stars.
March 7, 2018
I'm in love with the William Marshal series!
This book is amazing, beautiful and inspiring, especially because it's based on real historical characters and events. I've read over 600 pages in less than two days and I still want more!
***RTC***
This book is amazing, beautiful and inspiring, especially because it's based on real historical characters and events. I've read over 600 pages in less than two days and I still want more!
***RTC***
June 18, 2016
I immediately picked this book right after finishing The Greatest Knight because I couldn’t get enough of William Marshal. Also, I didn’t want to burst my medieval 'happy bubble' just yet. After learning about William as a young knight and courtier, I was eager to know how Elizabeth Chadwick would carry on with the narration of his incredible life, this time around from adulthood to old age.
As always, the author has me enraptured by the brilliance of her storytelling. Her writing style is clear, unpretentious and sophisticated. I didn’t find the plot dragging or difficult to follow (with the timeline shifting every so often), and while for the most part the book shows William deflecting every vile scheme and rumor thrown at him by his adversaries, I did find myself wishing at some point that the story would just go on and on.
Towards the last few pages when I knew how the story will end...that William’s death is to be the grand culmination... That of course in truth he is already several hundred years dead and it would look silly now if that portion of the book revealing his death still got me upset somehow.
But when I finally reached the part where he bids his family goodbye and says his last loving words to his wife, I still got affected by it and cried. :-(
As always, the author has me enraptured by the brilliance of her storytelling. Her writing style is clear, unpretentious and sophisticated. I didn’t find the plot dragging or difficult to follow (with the timeline shifting every so often), and while for the most part the book shows William deflecting every vile scheme and rumor thrown at him by his adversaries, I did find myself wishing at some point that the story would just go on and on.
Towards the last few pages when I knew how the story will end...that William’s death is to be the grand culmination... That of course in truth he is already several hundred years dead and it would look silly now if that portion of the book revealing his death still got me upset somehow.
But when I finally reached the part where he bids his family goodbye and says his last loving words to his wife, I still got affected by it and cried. :-(
May 1, 2019
Scarlet Lion only solidified my love of Chadwick further and reminded why I enjoyed her work so much. Chadwick weaves a captivating and all-too-real world that comes to life on every page. Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction with an emphasis on history.
February 10, 2011
Another incredible novel from Chadwick... it is a great author that can take bones of a historical person and make the reader feel as if they know them!!! A MUST read for anyone who loves historical fiction... it just doesn't get any better!!!
March 9, 2012
I first discovered William as a minor player in Sharon Kay Penman's trilogy about Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine, which is fabulous, by the way, as all of her books are. I wanted to read more about William so I picked up Elizabeth Chadwick's first novel about William Marshal, The Greatest Knight: The Story of William Marshal, which covered his young life as a knight on the tournament circuit and companion to the young King Henry. I really enjoyed it and I was surprised to discover that I enjoyed this novel chronicling his later years even more. I figured since he was now a husband and a father and getting older that the second half of his life wouldn't be as exciting as the first, but I was wrong!
As a husband, a father, and a powerful earl, William has more at stake than ever before. William swears his loyalty to King John, but when John's barons begin to turn on him as war with France looms and William's vast Norman estates are endangered, John takes William's two eldest sons as surety that William won't turn on him, too. William walks a lonely path as he struggles to maintain his honor while serving a faithless king, a position that often puts him at odds with his wife, Isabelle, and later, with his eldest son, Will.
This book spans twenty-two years -- a lifetime of court intrigue, war, loss and renewal, of important moments in history--and Ms. Chadwick does a fabulous job of weaving it all together, centering her story around a pair of characters that are all too easy to fall in love with. Isabelle has come a long way from her days as a sequestered royal ward and really holds her own in this one, proving herself a worthy partner for the Marshall. And as for William, what can I say? He was a great man and a great character in Ms. Chadwick's capable hands. Her portayal of the last days of William's life was beautiful and poignant. I knew it was going to be hard to say goodbye to him and to watch Isabelle lose him. The last scene of the book was a perfect ending and a fitting tribute to his memory. Really the whole book is a wonderful portrait of a man who lived as honorably as he could and the woman who loved him. Elizabeth Chadwick is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors.
As a husband, a father, and a powerful earl, William has more at stake than ever before. William swears his loyalty to King John, but when John's barons begin to turn on him as war with France looms and William's vast Norman estates are endangered, John takes William's two eldest sons as surety that William won't turn on him, too. William walks a lonely path as he struggles to maintain his honor while serving a faithless king, a position that often puts him at odds with his wife, Isabelle, and later, with his eldest son, Will.
This book spans twenty-two years -- a lifetime of court intrigue, war, loss and renewal, of important moments in history--and Ms. Chadwick does a fabulous job of weaving it all together, centering her story around a pair of characters that are all too easy to fall in love with. Isabelle has come a long way from her days as a sequestered royal ward and really holds her own in this one, proving herself a worthy partner for the Marshall. And as for William, what can I say? He was a great man and a great character in Ms. Chadwick's capable hands. Her portayal of the last days of William's life was beautiful and poignant. I knew it was going to be hard to say goodbye to him and to watch Isabelle lose him. The last scene of the book was a perfect ending and a fitting tribute to his memory. Really the whole book is a wonderful portrait of a man who lived as honorably as he could and the woman who loved him. Elizabeth Chadwick is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors.
August 24, 2021
Elizabeth Chadwick writes excellent historical fiction!
February 1, 2012
What a great author! After finishing The Greatest Knight earlier this month, I immediately needed to spend more time with William Marshall and learn more about his life. This is perfect, because it starts up right where the first leaves off. I didn't find it as exciting and fast-paced as The Greatest Knight, but as the story goes on it becomes so involved that you get completely taken in by William, Isabelle, their family and all the political upheaval of the time. The story progresses through William's long and adventurous life and we learn about the man, the husband and the father that he is....along with rich historical detail. I didn't want the story or William's life to end. It was written so beautifully, that I cried like I'd lost an old friend. The author had this to say in her note at the end and I completely agree...."It has been a wonderful journey for me.....to share the lives of such extraordinary people. It is with great respect, a touch of sadness, and a tremendous sense of inspiration that I move on."
April 22, 2020
The love story of William Marshall and his wife Isabelle de Clare continues in this sequel to The Greatest Knight. When King Richard dies, his younger brother, John, takes the throne and brings his evil leadership to England. It is not long before William falls out of favor trying to save his lands in Normandy governed by Philip II.
Along the way, we meet the children of the Marshalls including the charming Mahelt (Matilda) who Chadwick fits perfectly into a loving family as her father’s favorite daughter and the eldest girl. As a young teenager, she is wed to Hugh Bigod, 3rd Earl of Norfolk, just as her parents leave for Isabelle’s lands in Ireland. (Mahelt will be the heroine in To Defy a King.)
The history of the 12th century comes alive in this well-told story with vivid images, treachery and shifting alliances. William and Isabelle attempt to steer a noble course through a sea of King John’s muck. Like the others in the series, this one is definitely worth reading!
The Marshal Novels:
A Place Beyond Courage
The Greatest Knight
The Scarlet Lion
The Time of Singing (The King’s Favor in the US)
To Defy a King
Along the way, we meet the children of the Marshalls including the charming Mahelt (Matilda) who Chadwick fits perfectly into a loving family as her father’s favorite daughter and the eldest girl. As a young teenager, she is wed to Hugh Bigod, 3rd Earl of Norfolk, just as her parents leave for Isabelle’s lands in Ireland. (Mahelt will be the heroine in To Defy a King.)
The history of the 12th century comes alive in this well-told story with vivid images, treachery and shifting alliances. William and Isabelle attempt to steer a noble course through a sea of King John’s muck. Like the others in the series, this one is definitely worth reading!
The Marshal Novels:
A Place Beyond Courage
The Greatest Knight
The Scarlet Lion
The Time of Singing (The King’s Favor in the US)
To Defy a King
December 2, 2022
As long as there were young knights to break lances and women to watch their prowess, as long as there were men who would temper their desires and ambitions with honour and integrity, William's presence would still be felt.
A marvelous second book about the greatest knight of the Middle Ages. No point in reappointing myself so if you have any doubts about whether to read it check out my review of The Greatest Knight, the first part of Marshall's story or any other of my reviews of Elizabeth Chadwick's novels. Chadwick's books are the best if you want to feel and understand Middle Ages. Only some of her books have also great love stories (this one not), but it doesn't matter. One read them to travel centuries back.
Was honour the same as conscience? If not, how did one choose between them? And was the choice, when made, bitter as gall?
PS I regret I haven't read the two novels about Marshall one after another. Five years and many other books between the two was too much. I would really like to remember more and be able to make more connections, etc. Don't make my error.
July 3, 2018
The Scarlet Lion is the second instalment in a two-part series, that began with the greatest knight all about William Marshal. This is a powerful story of power struggles in the royal court, fierce loyalty, duty, honour, strength and valour. The relationship between William and Isabelle de Clare, (heiress to great estates in England, Ireland and Normandy) is simply beautiful and captivating. It proves that love can endure bloodthirsty warfare, strife and struggles. Their luck and nine children doesn't last as king John tries to unsettle the family that he loathes so much. Then, there is the battle in France and a young ten-year-old takes over the throne. Seeped in accurate historical details, exquisite romance and action-packed this page turner is a spellbinding read and one that I truly loved. Elizabeth Chadwick is a fantastic author, whose novels I highly recommend.
December 21, 2018
The ending was really good, very powerful. Enjoyable read.
February 11, 2010
Last year I read the Greatest Knight, I liked it very much but somehow I was not compelled to pick up its sequel right away. Now I was looking through Elizabeth Chadwick's books trying to decide what to read for the E in the ABC Challenge and The Scarlet Lion seemed like the perfect choice.
If The Greatest Knight focused solely on William Marshall, The Scarlet Lion devotes great attention to his wife and his children. I loved it how the characters are brought to life, their problems and worries, the political decisions of trying to survive during the reign of King John.
William Marshall was one of the most powerful men in medieval England and, through, his wife Isabelle; he also had considerable power in Ireland. With this story the author shows us how difficult it was to achieve and maintain that power, especially as Marshall’s achievements truly were outstanding in any age. If William comes alive has the consummate courtier, who knows that sometimes it is better to wait and ignore some of the indignities and humiliations to come out the victor; it is Isabelle Marshall that reveals herself has the true soul of the family, caring for her children and her husband while maintaining a keen eye on the political events.
Together they have to face seeing their oldest sons being made hostage by King John, war in their Irish lands and the constant political games of distrust and betrayal of a king who trusted no one and liked to break those who surrounded him.
The book covers the years from 1197 to William's death in 1219. In a period as politically complicated as this one was Elizabeth Chadwick truly has the gift of making it all seem very simple. My one complaint is that I was expecting to hear more about the Magna Carta but it is a small one considering what the author has achieved in explaining the period.
Now I can't wait for William and Isabelle's daughter Mahelt's story. And while I wait for it I may just have to start reading about Ida and Roger Bigod. It seems I can’t get enough of these characters and I would happily continue reading about the Marshall family and their allies in future books. But somehow I don’t think we will be seeing them in many more books as none of the Marshall sons had children and the properties and wealth ended up being divided between the daughter’s husbands.
Grade: 5/5
If The Greatest Knight focused solely on William Marshall, The Scarlet Lion devotes great attention to his wife and his children. I loved it how the characters are brought to life, their problems and worries, the political decisions of trying to survive during the reign of King John.
William Marshall was one of the most powerful men in medieval England and, through, his wife Isabelle; he also had considerable power in Ireland. With this story the author shows us how difficult it was to achieve and maintain that power, especially as Marshall’s achievements truly were outstanding in any age. If William comes alive has the consummate courtier, who knows that sometimes it is better to wait and ignore some of the indignities and humiliations to come out the victor; it is Isabelle Marshall that reveals herself has the true soul of the family, caring for her children and her husband while maintaining a keen eye on the political events.
Together they have to face seeing their oldest sons being made hostage by King John, war in their Irish lands and the constant political games of distrust and betrayal of a king who trusted no one and liked to break those who surrounded him.
The book covers the years from 1197 to William's death in 1219. In a period as politically complicated as this one was Elizabeth Chadwick truly has the gift of making it all seem very simple. My one complaint is that I was expecting to hear more about the Magna Carta but it is a small one considering what the author has achieved in explaining the period.
Now I can't wait for William and Isabelle's daughter Mahelt's story. And while I wait for it I may just have to start reading about Ida and Roger Bigod. It seems I can’t get enough of these characters and I would happily continue reading about the Marshall family and their allies in future books. But somehow I don’t think we will be seeing them in many more books as none of the Marshall sons had children and the properties and wealth ended up being divided between the daughter’s husbands.
Grade: 5/5
November 5, 2017
The Scarlet Lion, sequel to The Greatest Knight, follows William Marshal and his family now that he is married and a noble landowner rather than just an honorable knight navigating the shark-infested waters of Medieval politics. The political skills he learned as a knight come in handy, but his own life is no longer the only one at stake, and family fortunes change as quickly as kings in this time period.
This book deserves a 5 star rating. It's amazingly written historical fiction - well-researched, accurate as far as what is known about the people and time, and well-imagined as to what is not known. At the same time, it's written in a way that makes me care about the people and what happens to them. I had my heart in my throat with fear for William and his family, and loathed King John for his jealous vindictiveness. He really made my blood boil. And since the story had to stick to history (and I didn't know how it was going to end), I was more afraid for William than I would have been if it was strictly fiction. Imaginations are often not as cruel as reality can be, and I often feared the worst.
So I'm rating this 5 stars even though I can't say I enjoyed it. My ratings are usually based on my enjoyment while reading, but this one is in a different category - it is so well written that any emotional discomfort I experienced pales beside my awe at the way Chadwick brought the people and time alive enough to make me feel so terrified for them.
It was a great book, but I was relieved when it released me. History is a scary thing to resurrect, especially the brutal Middle Ages. I can handle the violence of battles where the greatest fear is merely a bloody death, but the political knives being stabbed into the hearts of our heroes and heroines are not for the faint at heart. And yet somehow I know I'll be back for more of Chadwick's works, willingly letting myself be run through the wringer again. They're that good.
(Review updated 7/29/2014)
This book deserves a 5 star rating. It's amazingly written historical fiction - well-researched, accurate as far as what is known about the people and time, and well-imagined as to what is not known. At the same time, it's written in a way that makes me care about the people and what happens to them. I had my heart in my throat with fear for William and his family, and loathed King John for his jealous vindictiveness. He really made my blood boil. And since the story had to stick to history (and I didn't know how it was going to end), I was more afraid for William than I would have been if it was strictly fiction. Imaginations are often not as cruel as reality can be, and I often feared the worst.
So I'm rating this 5 stars even though I can't say I enjoyed it. My ratings are usually based on my enjoyment while reading, but this one is in a different category - it is so well written that any emotional discomfort I experienced pales beside my awe at the way Chadwick brought the people and time alive enough to make me feel so terrified for them.
It was a great book, but I was relieved when it released me. History is a scary thing to resurrect, especially the brutal Middle Ages. I can handle the violence of battles where the greatest fear is merely a bloody death, but the political knives being stabbed into the hearts of our heroes and heroines are not for the faint at heart. And yet somehow I know I'll be back for more of Chadwick's works, willingly letting myself be run through the wringer again. They're that good.
(Review updated 7/29/2014)
September 5, 2019
If only history lessons at school had captured my imagination, and enthralled me in the way this author's books have.
I've found her account of the life and times of William Marshall exciting, entertaining and informative, and her attention to detail and vivid characterisations spellbinding.
Not only does she give her readers and edge of the seat account of the years in which this greatest of knights lived, she also weaves into the historical detail the tenderest of love stories.
In this, her second book about William and his family, in my opinion, she shows us the real man, someone who is not only brave, diplomatic, intelligent and cunning, but who also loves his family with a passion undiminished by the many trials and tribulations of both war, and the dangerous intricacies of life at court.
I've found her account of the life and times of William Marshall exciting, entertaining and informative, and her attention to detail and vivid characterisations spellbinding.
Not only does she give her readers and edge of the seat account of the years in which this greatest of knights lived, she also weaves into the historical detail the tenderest of love stories.
In this, her second book about William and his family, in my opinion, she shows us the real man, someone who is not only brave, diplomatic, intelligent and cunning, but who also loves his family with a passion undiminished by the many trials and tribulations of both war, and the dangerous intricacies of life at court.
January 15, 2024
This is the delightful and fast-paced sequel to The Greatest Knight about the latter years of William Marshal. The book begins with the birth of William and Isabel's 4th child(by book end they will have had 10).William, Isabel and their children will have to face many hard years living in trepidation under the thumb of King John. A great historical read that will might just have you sobbing by books end.
Goodreads review published 28/10/14
Goodreads review published 28/10/14
August 22, 2010
What a nice historical novel! This is the story of William Marshal, The Earl of Pembroke in his full maturity. The first time we see him, he is a fierce warrior, leading his men up a ladder as part of a siege. He serves King Richard--and serves him well. This rich novel traces the life of William and his wife, Isabelle, from hius maturity until the end of their days together. In the process, we see the burgeoning of their line (Isabelle, to be it mildly) is quite fertile. The challenges facing thewm, including King John's machinations, keep this novel movingt forward. Quite a fine read!
December 26, 2013
After this book and the previous one (The Greatest Knight) I think I need a complete change of scenery before returning to medieval fiction/history, since it would be almost impossible for any story and any character to match up with William Marshal.
Apart from everything else, this book contains perhaps the most aching farewell I've ever read about.
P.S.: I will not miss a visit to Temple Church in my next journey to London.
Apart from everything else, this book contains perhaps the most aching farewell I've ever read about.
P.S.: I will not miss a visit to Temple Church in my next journey to London.
October 11, 2023
Interesting reading. As usual, Elizabeth Chadwick manages to bring historical characters to life in a curious and exciting way. I give this novel 4 stars because, this time, I was unable to fully empathise with the characters, although they are well defined and characterised. I loved Isabelle for her determination, and it was pleasant to re-read some of the events surrounding the English royal family, but this time from an external point of view, namely that of William.
I'll read the other books for sure!
I'll read the other books for sure!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2023
I'm loving these William Marshal books and I'm looking forward to reading all the others, even though they appear to be less about William. My only real complaint with this book (other than the fact that it got a bit long and tedious in parts) was that the signing of the Magna Carta and what led to it is hardly talked about. I get that the book was already super long and authors can't always include everything because then every book would be 2,000 pages, but I feel like that's John's most lasting contribution to history and I really would have liked to see all that from William's point of view. There is some info about the Barons' War, but really not enough for me. Not enough about the causes and politics behind it, too much about the actual battles and who was on which side. I guess I'll just have to read Sharon Kay Penman's books about John and Henry III yet again.
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June 6, 2018Review to follow...
March 18, 2010
To me, this book felt like I was reading one of Sharon Kay Penman's novels. There were some differences but the writing is almost similar and so is the idea of following a family through several years and how they have evolved through that time. It was an interesting historical read, I have never heard of William Marshal and it was a nice history lesson for me. The plot was well written although not as rich in history as say, for example, Sharon Kay Penman's When Christ and his Saints Slept. However, this book is a wonderful family saga as it takes you through William and Isabelle's life with their children, and the historical events surrounding them. There isn't much court intrigue here that I was expecting but I was willing to accept this, as the book was well written.
The battle scenes are all right, although I expected a little more detail and more action. What was more central to the plot was mainly William and Isabelle's relationship, their family, and their endless fight against King John and his schemes. King John was every bit the villain here as I expected. He wasn't the explosive tempermental character that I thought he would have been, but more of a cunning, sly, scheming one that was constantly thinking of plots against his men or to have them turn against each other. It's a sneaky sly version of King John. An interesting side of him that I have heardly seen. It's a nice sight to read, as I'm used to seeing a different version of him altogether. I'd have to say, Isabelle is my favorite character. For a woman, and especially one during those times, she's extraordinarily strong and supportive towards William even when it came to her sons becoming "hostages". There was a very strong bond between the two and their love never failed. I thought they were both meant for each other, and complimented each other perfectly. My favorite part would be Isabelle holding off a potential invasion in Ireland. It showed her strength and determination to hold onto her beloved homeland.
A few shortfalls do happen in this novel, I thought it was long in some parts, and it seemed to have dragged. It did take me quite a while to finish this book. I guess because it didn't have the intrigue and constant plotting of court life. I also expected a story rich with historical descriptions and lots of historical detail, but it was more of a family saga set in a historical setting. Nevertheless I do suggest fans of historical fiction to give this a read, I did learn quite a few things here and there, especially of the life of William Marshal. Also, there is an element of romance in the novel, it's really nothing that explicit. It's to be expected as William and Isabelle were central to the story.
Overall, a good historical read that centralizes around a family saga. I do recommend this to those who enjoy reading stories of Medieval England.
The battle scenes are all right, although I expected a little more detail and more action. What was more central to the plot was mainly William and Isabelle's relationship, their family, and their endless fight against King John and his schemes. King John was every bit the villain here as I expected. He wasn't the explosive tempermental character that I thought he would have been, but more of a cunning, sly, scheming one that was constantly thinking of plots against his men or to have them turn against each other. It's a sneaky sly version of King John. An interesting side of him that I have heardly seen. It's a nice sight to read, as I'm used to seeing a different version of him altogether. I'd have to say, Isabelle is my favorite character. For a woman, and especially one during those times, she's extraordinarily strong and supportive towards William even when it came to her sons becoming "hostages". There was a very strong bond between the two and their love never failed. I thought they were both meant for each other, and complimented each other perfectly. My favorite part would be Isabelle holding off a potential invasion in Ireland. It showed her strength and determination to hold onto her beloved homeland.
A few shortfalls do happen in this novel, I thought it was long in some parts, and it seemed to have dragged. It did take me quite a while to finish this book. I guess because it didn't have the intrigue and constant plotting of court life. I also expected a story rich with historical descriptions and lots of historical detail, but it was more of a family saga set in a historical setting. Nevertheless I do suggest fans of historical fiction to give this a read, I did learn quite a few things here and there, especially of the life of William Marshal. Also, there is an element of romance in the novel, it's really nothing that explicit. It's to be expected as William and Isabelle were central to the story.
Overall, a good historical read that centralizes around a family saga. I do recommend this to those who enjoy reading stories of Medieval England.
March 27, 2010
The Scarlet Lion picks up shortly after The Greatest Knight leaves off. I would HIGHLY recommend that you read The Greatest Knight first! I am so glad that I found time to squeeze The Greatest Knight in. If you don’t, you will lose out on so much back-story that makes you really care about the characters and you learn the motives for many of the things that occur in this story. I have heard several people make this complaint, so I wanted to warn you right off of the top.
The Scarlet Lion takes place mostly in Ireland and England. I had not read anything set in Ireland, so it was very interesting to see some of this Irish history. For much of the story, William and Isabelle are in different countries and you see them living separate lives. When they are together, it is for a very short period of time and usually revolves around the marriage bed. One of the things that I miss from the previous book is the unity between William and Isabelle. They were able to build off of each other and make each other stronger – here there is more conflict. I really did find myself enjoying two of their children – John and Mahelt. I’m excited that Mahelt will be featured in an upcoming book, To Defy a King.
While I LOVED The Greatest Knight (you can find my review here), I didn’t enjoy The Scarlet Lion quite as much. I still really enjoyed it, but it was lacking the action and tourney excitement of the previous. This story was more character driven and less action driven – so it was a little slow going at times. One of the strengths of Chadwick’s writing is her ability to make you feel for the characters. As the story came toward the end I found myself in going back and forth between being choked up and crying – definitely a hanky novel!
Overall, an enjoyable Chadwick read and I can’t wait to get my hands on some more. For those of you who read this book first and found it hard to get into, do yourself a favor and pick up The Greatest Knight, you won’t regret it and everything will make more sense!
This book was received for review from the publisher - I was not compensated for my opinions and the above is my honest review.
The Scarlet Lion takes place mostly in Ireland and England. I had not read anything set in Ireland, so it was very interesting to see some of this Irish history. For much of the story, William and Isabelle are in different countries and you see them living separate lives. When they are together, it is for a very short period of time and usually revolves around the marriage bed. One of the things that I miss from the previous book is the unity between William and Isabelle. They were able to build off of each other and make each other stronger – here there is more conflict. I really did find myself enjoying two of their children – John and Mahelt. I’m excited that Mahelt will be featured in an upcoming book, To Defy a King.
While I LOVED The Greatest Knight (you can find my review here), I didn’t enjoy The Scarlet Lion quite as much. I still really enjoyed it, but it was lacking the action and tourney excitement of the previous. This story was more character driven and less action driven – so it was a little slow going at times. One of the strengths of Chadwick’s writing is her ability to make you feel for the characters. As the story came toward the end I found myself in going back and forth between being choked up and crying – definitely a hanky novel!
Overall, an enjoyable Chadwick read and I can’t wait to get my hands on some more. For those of you who read this book first and found it hard to get into, do yourself a favor and pick up The Greatest Knight, you won’t regret it and everything will make more sense!
This book was received for review from the publisher - I was not compensated for my opinions and the above is my honest review.
September 10, 2011
Elizabeth Chadwick is considered by most historical fiction readers to be IT. She’s the top of the field. She’s the cream of the crop. And this is one instance where I agree with the popular voice. Chadwick’s novels are beautiful in their historical accuracy, their characterizations, and their storytelling ability.
The Scarlet Lion follows The Greatest Knight as the second book in Elizabeth Chadwick’s William Marshal series. It took me a few chapters to get into the story, but once I did, I was hooked. In the previous book, William married Isabella de Clare and discovered that she was the perfect companion, his safe haven in the storms. In The Scarlet Knight, both William and Isabella find many storms to weather.
King Richard dies soon after the story opens, and William supports John in taking the kingship (despite the complaints of John’s nephew Arthur). John is as mean, nasty, and debauched as any devotee of Robin Hood movies would have expected, and even though he is indebted to William Marshal, he will not prove grateful. John wrangles with Philip II of France, losing nearly all the English lands across the water. William, who owns substantial holdings in Normandy, can only keep them by swearing fealty to Philip for them. John gives him permission to do this, but later retracts his consent and accuses William of treachery.
To punish William for treating with Philip, John uses his justiciar in Ireland to harass the de Clare lands there. When William and Isabella wish to visit their Irish lands, he demands two of their sons as hostages. William displays an inhuman patience throughout these trials, refusing to rebel in any way against his sovereign. Isabella is not so restrained. She bitterly resents it when William agrees to turn their sons over to John, and the Marshals’ perfect marriage is sorely tested during these times.
I was rather surprised to discover towards the end of the book that my favorite character was actually King John. As loathsome as he was, he lent a lot of interest to the story. After his death, William is forced to take the reins of government as regent for John’s young son Henry III. The story winds to a close with the greatest knight of England on his deathbed, having served four English kings faithfully and preserved his honor through good times and bad.
The Scarlet Lion follows The Greatest Knight as the second book in Elizabeth Chadwick’s William Marshal series. It took me a few chapters to get into the story, but once I did, I was hooked. In the previous book, William married Isabella de Clare and discovered that she was the perfect companion, his safe haven in the storms. In The Scarlet Knight, both William and Isabella find many storms to weather.
King Richard dies soon after the story opens, and William supports John in taking the kingship (despite the complaints of John’s nephew Arthur). John is as mean, nasty, and debauched as any devotee of Robin Hood movies would have expected, and even though he is indebted to William Marshal, he will not prove grateful. John wrangles with Philip II of France, losing nearly all the English lands across the water. William, who owns substantial holdings in Normandy, can only keep them by swearing fealty to Philip for them. John gives him permission to do this, but later retracts his consent and accuses William of treachery.
To punish William for treating with Philip, John uses his justiciar in Ireland to harass the de Clare lands there. When William and Isabella wish to visit their Irish lands, he demands two of their sons as hostages. William displays an inhuman patience throughout these trials, refusing to rebel in any way against his sovereign. Isabella is not so restrained. She bitterly resents it when William agrees to turn their sons over to John, and the Marshals’ perfect marriage is sorely tested during these times.
I was rather surprised to discover towards the end of the book that my favorite character was actually King John. As loathsome as he was, he lent a lot of interest to the story. After his death, William is forced to take the reins of government as regent for John’s young son Henry III. The story winds to a close with the greatest knight of England on his deathbed, having served four English kings faithfully and preserved his honor through good times and bad.
February 22, 2010
The Scarlet Lion is a stand-alone second novel detailing the later half of William Marshal’s life. William Marshal used his great skills as a knight as well as his honesty and integrity to gain power and the hand of Isabelle de Claire, a very wealthy heiress. At the beginning of The Scarlet Lion, William and Isabelle are happily married and busy multiplying their family. William has not settled down as a country squire, he is always at the beck and call of King Richard helping out and leading the way as needed.
Tragedy strikes when King Richard suddenly dies, and his brother, King John takes over. Honor compels William to serve England’s King, even though King John does not rule with integrity or honor himself. The Marshal family faces many perils, including King John taking the two eldest sons, William and Richard, as hostages. These perils cause friction between William and Isabelle as they try to keep their power and their family intact.
Unlike The Greatest Knight, The Scarlet Lion focuses a lot on Isabelle and the Marshall children. I liked the new approach as William is now a family man. Isabelle is a very strong heroine in a time when women did not have a lot of power. I loved reading about her and how she was able to rule without William at home.
The battle sequences in The Scarlet Lion were thrilling from the assault on the castle at Milli at the start of the book to the Battle of Lincoln at the end of the book. I was riveted and loved the detail. The historical detail throughout the book was intriguing. It was interesting to me to see how much power the Catholic Church influenced over nations at that point in time.
I also loved the romance. William and Isabelle’s love faces trials, but they are able to weather the storm and find their love growing stronger. I also love the realization of the passage of time. One of my favorite quotes is Isabelle thinking, “The years had flown with the swiftness of summer swallows on the wing.”
Overall, The Scarlet Lion is a fantastic novel. This is great historical fiction; wonderful characters, fascinating history, and detailed beautiful writing. I feel like I know William and Isabelle quite well now and only wish I could read more about them or their family!
Tragedy strikes when King Richard suddenly dies, and his brother, King John takes over. Honor compels William to serve England’s King, even though King John does not rule with integrity or honor himself. The Marshal family faces many perils, including King John taking the two eldest sons, William and Richard, as hostages. These perils cause friction between William and Isabelle as they try to keep their power and their family intact.
Unlike The Greatest Knight, The Scarlet Lion focuses a lot on Isabelle and the Marshall children. I liked the new approach as William is now a family man. Isabelle is a very strong heroine in a time when women did not have a lot of power. I loved reading about her and how she was able to rule without William at home.
The battle sequences in The Scarlet Lion were thrilling from the assault on the castle at Milli at the start of the book to the Battle of Lincoln at the end of the book. I was riveted and loved the detail. The historical detail throughout the book was intriguing. It was interesting to me to see how much power the Catholic Church influenced over nations at that point in time.
I also loved the romance. William and Isabelle’s love faces trials, but they are able to weather the storm and find their love growing stronger. I also love the realization of the passage of time. One of my favorite quotes is Isabelle thinking, “The years had flown with the swiftness of summer swallows on the wing.”
Overall, The Scarlet Lion is a fantastic novel. This is great historical fiction; wonderful characters, fascinating history, and detailed beautiful writing. I feel like I know William and Isabelle quite well now and only wish I could read more about them or their family!
September 1, 2023
Este livro conta-nos a história de William Marshal, com a sua mulher Isabelle, os seus filhos e a forma como lida com William lida com os reis de Inglaterra - inicialmente Ricardo e depois João.
Apesar de gostar de históricos, ainda não tinha lido nada sobre este período e gostei bastante, pois além de se focar em personagens reais, dá-nos a perspectiva da corte, das suas intrigas e a forma como William tem que "dançar" para agradar a todos, bem como algumas batalhas.
No entanto, esta não terá sido a altura ideal para ter lido o livro, pois apesar de ser muito interessante e de ter gostado, acho que precisava de algo mais ligeiro.
Apesar de gostar de históricos, ainda não tinha lido nada sobre este período e gostei bastante, pois além de se focar em personagens reais, dá-nos a perspectiva da corte, das suas intrigas e a forma como William tem que "dançar" para agradar a todos, bem como algumas batalhas.
No entanto, esta não terá sido a altura ideal para ter lido o livro, pois apesar de ser muito interessante e de ter gostado, acho que precisava de algo mais ligeiro.
June 13, 2011
4.5 This is the follow up to The Greatest Knight about history's most famous and honorable Knight William Marshal. The Greatest Knight covers his early years under King Henry II, Prince Henry and King Richard I. This book follows William and his wife Isabelle's turbulent years under King John. Chadwick doesn't write fluff. She not only teaches you history, she brings out all of your emotions.
December 7, 2016
I wish I could give this book more than five stars! It was truly amazing and so beautifully written. She has the power to bring to life the times of William Marshal and all the kings he served. By the end of the book, I felt as if I had known all of them personally and had lived through their heroic struggles. I feel very fortunate that I have many more of her books yet to read.
November 9, 2021
4.5. This book took me a bit longer to finish than The Greatest Knight, but it definitely solidified my love of William Marshal and Elizabeth Chadwick as well. I mean how many 50 year olds can scale a castle wall? You know how people are sometimes asked who they would like to go back in time to meet? I think I would pick William at around 40-50 years old. Fascinating life.
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