Kingdom of Love

by Tracie Peterson

Kidnapping. . .Murder. . .Revenge. If Only the Fortress Walls Could Talk! From bestselling author Tracie Peterson come 3 unique historical novels, rereleased for old and new fans alike. Liberty and love--even life itself--are fragile commodities those living in medieval England. Will God's love and power triumph in the lives of these three courageous women? Arianne is finally finding love and kindness in an arranged marriage until her past overpowers the castle gate and threatens to take her hostage. Helena must overcome a king's decree, escape a savage stepbrother and devious stepsister, and try to enter thick walls of safety...for herself and her heart. Mary, a physician's daughter, brings life and health to others at the threat of her own safety. Will a shining knight come to her rescue? If the castle walls could talk, would they warn of peril or promise romance? Find out in soul-searing historical novels of romance and suspense!

Genres: Romance, Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Historical, Christian, Novella, Closed Door Romance

438 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2023

About the author

Tracie Peterson is a bestselling author who writes in both historical and contemporary genres. Her novels reveal her love for research as well as her strong desire to develop emotionally meaningful characters and stories for her readers. Tracie and her family live in Montana.

pen name: Janelle Jamison

Reviews

[Amber Thiessen · Rating 5 out of 5]

There's not a lot of medieval historical fiction, so this title caught my eye!

You'll find three novellas with strong Christian themes. The first two stories feature the same characters which is neat, the last is a stand alone. The characters each explore aspects of true faith against the backdrop of a legalistic, national church. I really enjoyed these, I think you will too!

[N · Rating 3 out of 5]

Always telling myself I want to read more Medieval romance and thought these shorter reads would be a good way to get some Dark Ages swooning in. I read two out of three of these novellas. Might come back to the third one, but for now, calling it good.

There was a lot to enjoy in these first two that are related (the third one is a separate story years later). I’ll just get out of the way that, though hard to pinpoint, this writing was a bit dry for me, the jumpy omniscient POV took getting used to, and, though there were generous mentions of the British Medieval way of life and customs, I missed an epic, transporting effect to sweep me away. Won’t go into detail, but I also was disappointed by some story/ relationship progression choices that made the characterizations and trope execution lose tension and interest for me.

I did love that the first book is an arranged marriage, and I did love how the second is a villain redemption story with childhood unrequited pining. How a more personal redemptive faith in God in relation to how religion was viewed then is interwoven with the character arcs was great to see.

I would say give these a try if you have a Medieval quick itch to scratch. Maybe it’s just me.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher a chance to read this ARC.

Content notes: Kissing Only, on page toxic family members, heroines on page suffering from bodily harm and peril. Mention of murder. Predominant faith and Christian religion aspects.

[Julie Carpenter · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5*

I was hooked on all three of these medieval novellas! I loved the characters a lot. I loved how the first two flowed together so well and we were able to see the characters from the first book continue their story.

Arianne, Helena and Mary were great heroines who had to overcome hardships and struggles of their time. I'm a fan of a good medieval story and these three delivered greatly for me!

Any fan of this time period will love this collection!

Content: Clean and sweet historical Christian fiction. Full of action, suspense, family, friendship, and much more.

I received a copy from the publisher, Barbour Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall rating of 4 stars!

A Kingdom Divided
3.5 Stars!
Arianne and Richard are arranged in marriage. They then encounter danger from a foe. Decent story! I loved all the Christian elements and having faith in God. The romance between Arianne and Richard was good.

Alas My Love
4 stars!
This story involves Tancred from the first story and Helena. Helena is mistreated by her step siblings and escapes to Arianne and Richard’s home. I really liked the storyline of this one. It was more interesting than the first one. I also enjoyed all the Christian elements. I did feel bad for Helena and all she endured but she got her happy ending with Tancred.

If Only
5 stars!
I really enjoyed this one. It deals with the Bubonic plague. Mary qnd Peter work together and help lots of children, taking them under their wing. Great story!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from netgalley . All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Abigail · Rating 4 out of 5]

The “Kingdom of Love” has three medieval novellas inside. They were each intriguing and had strong characters that each had their own story to tell. I appreciated how Tracie Peterson can place faith and weave it all throughout the stories. There was one part I didn’t care for with the bedroom in the first story ( nothing happened, I am a little more particular about things).

I received a copy from the publisher via Netgalley. These are my own opinions.

[Melissa’s Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this Medieval romance collection by Tracie Peterson. Kingdom of Love contains three intriguing novellas with castle sieges, murder, intrigue, swoon worthy romance, and even the Bubonic Plague. I found myself eagerly turning the pages to find out what happened next.

A Kingdom Divided is the story of Arianne & Richard. Arianne’s forced to marry by her father, but her husband-to-be. Richard is a kind, thoughtful man who offers her a choice in whether to marry him. Arianne agrees to the marriage and travels with him to his castle. Richard’s mysterious past comes back to haunt them though when a bitter enemy vows to take everything Richard has including Arianne. It’s a fast-paced arranged marriage romance with plenty of action & adventure. I was thoroughly engaged in this story and couldn’t wait to see if/how things would work out. I loved how the arranged marriage grew into real love. In addition to the action and sweet romance, there’s a lovely message of forgiveness and repentance woven throughout the story.

Alas My Love is the continued story of Tancred from A Kingdom Divided, and Hannah. Hannah has been in love with Tancred since she was a child and holds out hope that he’ll return to her. She refuses to give in to her step-siblings’ demands to wed. Barely escaping with her life, she winds up at Richard’s & Arianne’s castle where she’s reunited with her lost love. Hannah’s determined to keep Tancred safe from her conniving family even if it means letting him go. I loved this story! Hannah’s step-siblings were awful, especially her stepsister. The romance was so good and I enjoyed Hannah’s strength in standing up for herself as well as her reliance on faith. Everything from the first story and this story is neatly wrapped up at the end.

If Only is a standalone novella that takes place during the Bubonic Plague. In this story, the author vividly brings to life the fear, loss, and devastation of the plague. Peter is a knight sent on a quest by the king to document the effects of the plague. Along the way, he meets Mary, the daughter of a physician with a gift for healing. They team up and work together to care for a group of orphans as they journey to Mary’s grandmother. This was a tender, heartwarming story that deals with love, loss, and the battle between science and faith. The characters are truly humbled by the effects of the plague and each finds a path to God through their experiences.

Each story was so compelling and really brought Medieval times to life. I loved each romance along with the action. In addition to reading, I listened to the audiobook version and enjoyed the narrator. She really brought these characters to life and I appreciated the emotion she injected into the story.

Definitely recommend to Medieval inspirational romance fans! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher but also purchased the audiobook version. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. 4-4.5 stars.

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kingdom of Love by Tracie Peterson is a wonderful collection of three novellas set in Medieval times. Each can be read as a standalone story although the first two have a connection. All three feature courageous women who face seemingly unsurmountable hardships and challenges. The characters are exceptionally well-developed considering the length of the stories. The historical detail is amazing and reflects extensive research. I greatly appreciate the strong faith thread woven throughout each story. Fans of suspenseful historical romance infused with faith will love this collection.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Kekanma · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the description alone, I thought this would be an interesting read and I was not disappointed at all! I loved it! Each character and story was so well written and lovely, even though it was a novella, the story wasn’t rushed and went at a balanced pace which I loved! I think it’s between the second and last story that’s my favourite. I wasn’t a huge fan of the first girl at first (how do you get caught thrice??!) but she was equally as endearing as the rest and the heroes were swoon worthy 🤩. This is my first Tracie Peterson book but definitely not my last!

Thank you NetGalley and the publishers. The Opinions are my OWN

[Abigail Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an interesting read. Three medieval novellas. Travel back to the days of knights and ladies.
The first two tales tie together and have some mystery. I was disappointed the third story didn’t continue with the characters of the first two.
But each story is an interesting read with plenty of time accurate detail added in.

[Deon]

reprint of 3 previous love inspired/heartsong books.

A Kingdom Divided (read 2016)
Alas My Love (read 2016)
If Only

[Sarita · Rating 3 out of 5]

I do not read a lot of medieval stories, but the cover caught my eye and won me over to try the stories.

I enjoyed the short novellas in this collection, especially how the two first novellas were linked. I also enjoyed the bit of mystery included in the stories.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*

[Jeanette Durkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I thoroughly enjoyed this compilation of Regency romance novellas! The first two are tied together, and the third is separate. The stories are original and interesting!

The characters are wonderful! In the first story, I really liked Richard! He is gentle, kind, and a protector. Arianne is strong. She grew up in an abusive house, yet her heart longs for love.

In the second story, Helena also has been abused. She longs for the man she's loved since a child. Tancred was in the first story, and he was angry and hurt. In this story, he gets a second chance at love!

In the third story, Mary is a gifted healer. She suffers a great loss. She meets Peter, my favorite! He's a handsome knight! He's compassionate, kind, a protector, and a man of his word.

Each story has a love story. All rated G!

These are a definite must-read! I was provided a copy of the book from NetGalley and Barbour Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Vicki F · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kingdom of Love by Tracie Peterson is three romantic novellas set in medieval times. Conflict, murder, banishment, misunderstandings, and forgiveness set the tone for the first two novellas. The second novella Alas My Love is a sequel to the first novella A Kingdom Divided. I was glad to see the sequel because so many questions were answered that I had at the conclusion of the first. The third novella is set during the bubonic plague. Due to this, the details were, at times, tough to read. However, salvation and faith over total reliance in science was a theme that made this novella so redemptive.

The characters in all three were wonderfully developed. Descriptions of the English countryside as medieval times was exceptional.

A copy was provided for my review, but all opinions are my own.

[Natalie Nyquist · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted this to be really good, and the stories had some good moments. The final novella was so unique in the setting (during the black plague) that it was my favorite, and I'll read it again. The first two were good but you could also tell they were written in the 90s and I wish they'd been edited to bring them up to modern standards for POV especially (it often switches POV between paragraphs). There's been so much good medieval fiction in the last decade I'm not sure this one can quite compete, but for those who just love clean medieval romance, they'll enjoy having something new to read.

[Rebecca Trump · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tracie Peterson has been writing for over 30 years and she is exceptional at it. Kingdom of Love is no different. I love the depth of her characters, the lavish settings and her love for God and His saving grace. If you love tales from medieval times, you will love these 3 novellas all in one book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions expressed are completely my own.

[Kym · Rating 3 out of 5]

The three novellas in this collection read almost like fairy tales thanks to their medieval settings with lords and ladies, castles and knights, and the 'happily ever after' romances in each.

In "A Kingdom Divided" Arianne and Richard agree to an arranged marriage in which she finds kindness and respect for the first time. She is very cautious about opening her heart to her new husband, but he is patient and gentle in winning her over. But it's only when an enemy puts them and everyone in the castle in danger that Arianne truly realizes how much she does love Richard. Initially it seems as though the conflict is resolved almost immediately, since Arianne's opposition to the match is reversed as soon as she realizes that she will probably be safer with Richard than with her abusive father. There are quite a few peaceful chapters with them getting acquainted before the real conflict with the invader begins.

In "Alas, My Love" the main character Helena is also in an abusive home and refuses to submit to the plans her step-siblings try to force upon her. She escapes when they try to confine her to a convent and is taken in by Arianne and Richard when one of their tennants brings her to the castle. Helena has nursed the hope that a young man, Tanny, that she knew when she was a little girl would someday come back and rescue her, and that he is her true love. This is another fairy tale ending reconciliation story, and although I did find the idea that a woman would believe herself genuinely in love with a man she hadn't seen since she was nine years old, the story was one of hope and restoration and quite interesting.

The third story, "If Only" has an unrelated setting and characters, but is still set during the middle ages. The bubonic plague is ravaging England and Mary flees her home when her physician father is attacked by superstitious townsfolk because they believe he is doing the devil's work and has brought the plague upon them. As Mary treks towards York with a vague hope of finding the grandmother she has never met, she takes refuge at a monastery for a time and uses her knowledge of healing to help the monks there. Another traveler, Peter, is there as well, and they join forces for the rest of the journey, and take in several orphaned children along the way. This story was perhaps the most believable of the three in many ways.

The narration style also contributes to the fairy tale quality, because the viewpoint character switches often, with the narrator giving the thoughts, emotions, and reactions of multiple characters. Because the stories are novellas, the characters and conflicts are less developed than in full length novels. My understanding is that this collection is a re-release of Peterson's earlier writing, and I did feel like the writing style didn't have the same depth as other novels of hers that I've read. The stories were enjoyable and interesting, with sweet and clearn romances that would also be suitable for teen or young adult readers, in my opinion.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a review.

[Michelle Kidwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kingdom of Love
3 Medieval Romances
by Tracie Peterson
Pub DateNov 01 2023
Barbour Publishing |Barbour Fiction
Christian| Historical Fiction| Romance



Barbour Publishing and Netgalley provided me with a copy of Kingdom of Love for review:


Kidnapping. . .Murder. . .Revenge.Murder. Kidnapping. Revenge.
If Only the Fortress Walls Could Talk!

From bestselling author Tracie Peterson, come three new historical novels. In medieval England, freedom and love--even life itself--were fragile commodities. How will God's love and power triumph in the lives of these three courageous women? In soul-searing historical novels full of romance and suspense, you'll find out!

A Kingdom Divided

Arianne Pemberton, raised in a violent household, experiences love and gentleness for the first time after her arranged marriage to Richard, Duke of Gavenshire. Before Arianne can trust both Richard's love and God's care for her, a mysterious enemy from Richard's past overpowers the castle and captures her. Tancred, who is he, and why is he seeking revenge? The animosity between the two men stems from what?  Arianne risks her life to restore peace and unite a divided kingdom based on her new faith. 



 Alas, My Love


A young woman without protection in the Middle Ages would find England a far from jolly place. She has little choice, however, due to her stepbrother's savagery and her stepsister's devious schemes. She must seek shelter elsewhere. Helena lives under an assumed name, fearful her stepbrother will discover her whereabouts despite being protected by the magnanimous Duke of Gavenshire. One dream transports her above her worries, the desire to be reunited with brave Tancred one day. It has been years since they were together, and now an ocean and a king's decree separate them. But are those obstacles stronger than a woman's prayer for love? Are those obstacles stronger than a woman's prayer for love? 
 
If Only


England, 1349. Mary Beckett finds herself alone and desperate as the bubonic shadow spreads across the land. Her father, a physician accused of consorting with the devil, was murdered. Her own interest in medicine has brought accusations of witchcraft. Mary's only hope is to travel north to the home of her godly grandmother, a woman her father once rejected. She will meet doctors and pilgrims, as well as Peter Donne, a knight on a mission from the king. She will receive hundreds of requests to heal them. How can Mary Beckett, a lonely pilgrim herself, help her people and herself? It would be so much better if she could reach her grandmother's home, if she could find her own way to God.


I give Kindgdom of God, five out of five stars!


Happy Reading...
 

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Kingdom of Love" is a collection of three romance novellas set in medieval England. There was no bad language or sex scenes (though married sex was implied). The first two stories were set during Henry III's rule. The second one continued the first story. The first felt staged and the second was melodramatic.

Arianne was proactive in working to save others, but the men around her didn't warn her of danger so she made some bad assumptions. It felt staged because she was easily captured, easily escaped, and just as easily was recaptured, repeat. The men knew that they would surrender the moment she was captured but delayed fighting the enemy when they had the upper hand and repeatedly left her vulnerable to recapture. Anyway, her husband was a kind man who valued her in word and action, and they got to know each other before falling in love. Arianne learned to trust God for her salvation and safety. Overall, nice.

Helena was melodrama. When faced with a situation she didn't want to deal with, she usually fainted. She loved a man 11 years older than her who saw her as his best friend's little sister. When she was nine, he was exiled as a murderer. She loyally didn't believe him guilty and pined for him even though she didn't know if he was still alive. Yet she apparently knew him so little that she didn't realize that she'd fled from her abusive stepfamily to his brother's castle. And when they mentioned the full name of her love, she had no idea they meant her beloved. Yet she instantly recognized him after 11 years apart. He mentioned that he'd changed and shouldn't they get to know each other, but she passionately declared her undying love. He'd come to know God and was kind to and protective of her. He was flattered by her strong support and liked her beauty and lovely singing voice. Overall, it was ok.

The third story was set during the bubonic plague in England under Edward III. Mary was taught healing by her physician father but also to despise religion. She wondered how people could believe in a God who allowed so much death. She ended up helping sick monks who explained why God might let this happen. The knight protected and supported Mary. They both cared about the orphaned children, so they took some with them. This shared caring for the children brought them close. The knight changed his attitude from 'enjoy life while you're alive' to believing in life after death for those who believe in Christ. Interesting historical details were woven into the story. I liked this story the best of the bunch.

I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.

[Kickyq · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kingdom of Love contains three stories with three different heroines. The first two are companions and work really well together. I wish the third story had either been another companion book or that all three were stand alone books. I was a little confused for the first chapter of the third book thinking wait is this even the same time period ?

Each story had great premises . In the first, Ariannes father arranges her marriage to the Duke of Gavenshire. After having an abusive father she is scared of the duke but eventually sees his kindness and love for her. She is kidnapped and the story continues with the dukes brother who has been charged with the murder of his parents ; he only wants his brother , the duke, to tell the king he didn’t do it … there are a lot of emotions and feeling and hatred, but Ariadne reminds the duke basically “ what would Jesus do”? The story ends with the brother escaping and Arianne and the duke going into happily ever after .

The brother , Tancreds story continue continues in the second book. There are a lot of twists and turns but ultimately he sees Helena (a childhood friend) who is still madly in love with him as his future . She sticks by him despite many believing he murdered his parents . You find out who killed the parents which is really surprising and brings some suspense and intrigue into the book.

Lastly you read about Mary who is a healer during the bubonic plague. She has always suffered because is a woman healer . In walks Peter who is charged with counting how many have died and you can guess it eventually they fall in love. The story follows them on their journey of healing the sick , building a family with orphaned children and eventually finding her grandmother who turns out to be a healer too. It’s also a book about finding God in the process of so many dying and why He is always there . I found this story a bit slower . The beginning couple of chapters seemed to have the most adventure . I would have liked a little more from this story.
Thank you to Netgalley for a copy of the book in exchange for a free download.

[Kelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

This trilogy of Medieval stories is a mix of suspense, romance and intrigue. Book 1 begins with Richard and Arianne - a couple betrothed to marriage who have never met. On the day of introduction, Richard sees the true colors of Arianne's father and whisks her away to his castle and a hasty wedding. Arianne is terrified that she has married a man just like her father, but surprisingly Richard is just the opposite. As they get to know each other, more comes to light concerning Richard's family background. Suddenly, while Richard is away, the castle is under siege and Arianne becomes a hostage. A nemesis from the past enters and only through the compassion and selflessness of Arianne is evil averted. Book 2 continues to weave the story but this time with Tancred - Richard's brother - returning after 11 years in exile. Together the two are determined to uncover who is responsible for the death of their parents. Enter Helena - running from a difficult family situation - who seeks asylum with Arianne and Richard. When Tancred and Helena meet - what will become of a friendship started years ago? Through an evil plot and sinister plans of a family member time is running out before all is lost. Hang on for the grand finale! Book 3 takes place in 1349 when the Bubonic Plaque is wreaking havoc on England. Mary Beckett and her father, a physician, are trying to help care for those who are sick and dying. Unfortunately, her father is accused of consorting with the devil and is murdered at their home. Escaping with her life, Mary presses on towards Norhtern England in hopes of finding a grandmother she has never met. Along the way she begins to collect orphaned children and when she stops at a monastery for rest, she meets Peter Donne. Peter, a knight on the king's business, has acquired an orphan boy as well in his travels. Joining forces the two work together to help the children and work on a fledgling romance. I highly recommend this book of three novellas!

I was gifted a copy of this book through NetGalley and all opinions are my own.

[English · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

These stories were part of a collection which I first read years ago. I mean as in 15 years ago. It was probably one of the first Christian Fiction books I ever read, in fact. I’m glad that I returned to them now, because I enjoyed it a little more than I thought.

I don’t know if the stories have been edited, but there were a few things in them which I didn’t remember, some good some not so much.

I remember the first story being very Disneyfied, and I still got that impression. The next one, a direct sequel was more authentic and grounded, although some of the characters were a bit whimsical. A couple of the villains were almost bad to the point of comical.

The third was kind of mixed. As historical fiction goes, I think I prefer the second. There were some interesting details, but some stuff was wrong as well. For example, everything I've read suggests there was no prohibition on human dissection in the Middle Ages nor anything preventing women from engaging in certain types of medical practice. Its just they didnt' want anyone doing it or it would create a situation similar to what happened in Victorian times with Bodysnatchers.

In the final story, Mary and her father being modern-style atheists who felt that faith and reason were incompatible seemed a bit contrived. I guess it was necessary for the plot, but still.
Don’t want to be all negative though: I did enjoy this book a lot more than I thought and I am glad they got a reprint and an audiobook! I remember thinking years ago that this would make a great audiobook and it’s finally been done.

I’d recommend for anyone who likes Medieval Romances, and short stories. Thanks to Barbour for approving me for this title on Netgalley. This didn’t influence my opinions which are entirely my own.

[LouAnn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a nice collection of 3 easy-to-read Christian romances, especially if you love historical fiction! Each story features a female lead who has been mistreated, either by family or outsiders. They are all young women who have a strong will and desire to help others in a time period where women were expected to marry, bear children, and quietly run a household. The storylines involve kidnapping, beatings, murder, and more to keep the reader engaged, as well as excellent descriptions of the surroundings of this time period.

A Kingdom Divided: Arianne is married against her will to the Duke of Glenhume. Though she doesn’t trust him initially, the Duke is a kind man who is determined to prove his trust and earn her love. This storyline is an excellent example of how Christ loves us unconditionally before we love Him!

Alas, My Love: This book is a continuation of the previous book, featuring the love story of Helena and Tancred. Helena had been in love with Tancred since she was young, but he was sent away. She didn’t know whether he was alive or dead, but she kept her love for him strong. When they were reunited years later by chance, Tancred didn’t even recognize her since he remembered her as a child. The story develops with tension and murder among family members as Helena and Tancred renew their friendship and love.

If Only: A stand-alone book featuring Mary, a physician’s daughter during the bubonic plague. This story starts with a tragedy right away, so Mary is forced to make her way in the world at an early age. She is filled with so much compassion for children who are affected by their families’ deaths because of the plague, this was very interesting to read how she was able to keep providing for them! I haven’t read any books about the bubonic plague so this was new, and very interesting for me. Of course, there is a knight in shining armor in this book! Her quest to find her grandmother’s home leads her to travel with him, and the monks she helps along her journey help her understand and examine her own faith in God.

For me personally, I like a little more character development in books, but these are short stories. So I think the author did a good job in a short time. I really appreciated that while they are all quick and light reads, they have a great message about finding their faith in God through trials or adversities. They remind us that God will never leave us or forsake us in difficult times!

[Kate · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am not a fan of this book. For starters, the character development was pitiful. Arianne is about as boring of a character as has ever graced a page, but apparently she's the most beautiful creature in the entire world. That's pretty much her entire characterization. Does Peterson delve into the possibilities of her abuse at the hands of her father? Not much. There was also no rising action with Tancred. It seemed like she was in peril, she wasn't, she was, she wasn't, etc so much my head was spinning. Tancred was the most interesting character both in that story and the second. Yet again, Peterson just missed the mark. He could have been so fascinating as a flawed hero, but instead everything just seemed really contrived, the action rushed, and the conflict suddenly disappeared. For her part, Helena is a milksop and rather boring. To have such devotion to someone she hasn't seen since childhood is just a bit absurd.

So why 3 stars? It's because of the third book. Mary and Peter were refreshingly well fleshed out considering that this is a novella. (Further proof that the first 2 stories were poor writing and not just a casualty of the novella genre.) Their relationship seemed believable and actually had some fighting in it! Mary's conversion doesn't make her perfect which stands out in contrast to Helena and Arianne. I also thought it was interesting to tackle a story and romance in the middle of the Black Death. Altogether, the 3rd story is the only one worth your time.

I received a free copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful captivating stories that will leave u glued until the end!
Peterson has shown us that she can write anything! She's truly a master storyteller that I absolutely love!
In Helena's story I had to look up a couple of words like wimple and villeans. The wimple I guessed right about but the other one I definitely had to look up.
I loved this book for many reasons and my favorite was the many prayers thar were scattered throughout. I loved how each character looked to God about certain things.
My second favorite was how good always wins over evil. The evil person will always slip up no matter the situation.
Lastly I loved loved the way things worked out.
Faith and Hope are all we have in this world for without God and those things we truly have nothing.
Peterson has done a fantabulous job with this novel.
There are 3 stories but Helena's was my very favorite.
Mary's story was ok too. I admired her as well. It takes courage and faith to live in those times.
Midevil times were rough and beliefs were precarious at times.
I loved how Mary's story turned out too and I even learned a thing or two!
5 stars for this well written book. I highly recommend if u love knights, kings and history!
My thanks to Netgalley and Barbour publishers for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review of this book.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tracie Peterson is a prolific author who has honed her craft to an artform! This new collection of three short novels is one of my favorite anthologies I've read this year. I truly enjoy Medieval stories, although I wouldn't give up my modern conveniences for anything. The dukes and duchesses who are responsible for the lives of those entrusted to them take those responsibilities seriously in these three stories. From an arranged marriage that becomes a love match, to a group of orphaned children collected along a journey to the northern part of the country, these tales have something for every romance reader, gentle heroes who can be firm when needed, loving heroines who see things beyond how they look on the surface, a bit of treachery, and a loving reunion among long, lost relatives.

The first two stories in the book make a short series, while the third one takes place about two hundred years later.

Tracie's skill in bringing characters and settings to life is unparalleled. Her research into the lives and times of those living in such primitive times is spot on. Her ability to craft such enjoyable prose makes me envious of her talent.

This is a five-star book, with two thumbs up, and a rescuer of damsels in distress.

Barbour Books provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Shebb · Rating 3 out of 5]

Before "Kingdom of Love" I'd never read anything by Tracie Peterson, although I knew she'd written a heap of books. I was thankful when NetGalley and Barbour Publishing allowed me an advanced copy of her Medieval romances as I'm a fan of the time period.

My initial impression of the first story, "A Kingdom Divided," was, well, threaded with disappointment. The tale, albeit sweet, read like a story one might read from an inexperienced author. The copyright at the beginning of the bookset listed this story and the second as mid-1990s in origin, so that might be the reason.

The first two stories were related (about two brothers), and I did enjoy the journey the characters travelled. Richard and Arianne experienced some crazy moments together (and apart), as did Tancred and Helena. But my favourite was the third story set during the plague and unrelated to the earlier stories. Peter and Mary's romance was unique as they separately navigated the horrors of the disease before they met, and joined forces to help ailing people and orphaned children.

Overall, I found the stories enjoyable to read once I came to terms with the simplicity of the first story.

NB I received an ARC of this novel.

[Susan Faloon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tracie Peterson offers readers a trilogy of medieval historical short romances.Arianne is fearful of the man to whom her father has arranged a marriage for her. Could this person, a duke, be the same kind of man her father is? In the second story Helena bravely runs from the future her overbearing step brother has planned for her. Her heart has been set on a man she has loved from childhood days. These two stories actually blend together very nicely. There has been abuse which both young women have endured, causing distrust and fear. There is action including an overrun castle, escape, a murder mystery and more.
I had a hard time adjusting to the third story because I had assumed it would involve a character from the previous two. As I read further about Mary, a physician's daughter who narrowly escapes a ruthless crowd and helps a knight rescue children in dire circumstances I realized I did like the story.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher through NetGalley and this is my unsolicited opinion about it. Each story was interesting with information about the time period. I appreciated the message of faith throughout. I could see what it may have been like as an awakening to the fact that God waa the one to worship and not the church.
This book reminded me of Melanie Dickerson's stories which I also enjoy. I give it a 4.5.

[Maddy McGlynn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the idea of a collection of historical novelettes. I don’t tend to read shorter historical fiction, so this was something different for me to try.

Although shorter novels, they had all the elements needed for gripping historical fiction; betrayal, revenge, romance and fierce strong-willed women. There were castles, secret passages, battles and adventure. All three stories took me right into the heart of a medieval world, which was very believable and well-researched. These were very escapist stories and really captured all the glamor, adventure and romance of chivalric medieval tales.

The first two stories are connected, however the third is not, and it felt a little inconsistent as I was starting to really enjoy the adventures of Tancred, Richard and Arianne. I’d have loved to see a third story continuing on with their story.

I personally feel there could have been more depth to the stories, however, I fully acknowledge they are shorter works and the author did a great job of telling engaging stories in a shorter form.


Overall, these were very enjoyable and well-written, and something a little different.

I received a copy from the publisher, Barbour Publishing via NetGalley. All views are my own.

[Lisa M. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kingdom of Love is a collection of three medieval novellas that are intertwined with their characters. Each of them has to deal with a major SOMETHING be it intrigued, murder, ect. And they learn that the love of God and the love of a man and woman can truly last through anything that comes.

Of the three women, I definitely liked Helena the least. LOL. But I did like her love interest "Tanny" because of his change from story #1 to story #2. The whole deal with that story though was just weird. Pretty sure Maude was a psychopath.

I just didn't gel with the characters very much. Everything was a bit over the top--and I think it is hard to write a Chrisitina novel for this time that isn't Catholic because not much is known about how Christians would have been able to do things. Considering stepping out away from the Church being in charge and having your own copy of ANY of the Bible would have been rare.

I felt like this was a book reminicent of Jody Hedlund's books in the same era.

I give this a solid 3.5 stars. i didn't love it, but I liked it. But I can't give it 4 stars here because then I feel like I'm robbing my solid 4 stars. LOL.

[MJSH · Rating 3 out of 5]

It has been a while since I've read Tracie Peterson and I enjoy medieval romances so I started the book with high expectations. I liked the faith thread in the stories and definitely enjoyed learning about the culture and customs of medieval England. I did not love the abrupt interjections of "old" English into modern-sounding conversation and characters felt somewhat two-dimensional. My favorite faith journey was Tancred's in Alas My Love. This story also had a dash of mystery and intrigue and also tied up the loose ends from the first story. If Only took the reader through the bubonic plague that ravaged Europe in 1340s and gave a pretty chilling account of those who nursed the sick; and yet there was hope and faith and joy in the midst of the suffering.
If you love Tracie Peterson and medieval fiction, you may love this book.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Barbour Publishing via NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.