Rebel

The Brides of Alba #3

by Linda Windsor

With Merlin dead, the succession undecided, and the Celtic church on the defensive from Rome, intrigue sweeps the court of the High King Arthur. But it’s battlefield news that consumes Queen Gwenhyfar’s young scribe, Kella O’Toole: her fiancé is dead and her father gone missing. Determined to find him at all costs, Kella defies the queen’s orders and sets out for Pictish territory. Her foster brother Alyn, a disillusioned priest who questions his calling, agrees to help her. The journey itself is perilous. But it’s their secrets that land Kella and Alyn in a viper’s nest of treachery that threatens both their lives and the future of Albion. Can they summon the love and faith they need to find their way not only out of danger, but into happiness? Brilliantly researched, vividly imagined, and movingly written—a memorable climax to the Brides of Alba series.

Genres: Christian, Historical Fiction, Romance, Fantasy, Historical, Christian Fiction, Historical Romance

384 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2012

About the author

Linda Windsor is the best-selling, award-winning author of more than thirty novels, with more than a million books in print. Her most recent work includes Healer and Thief, the first two volumes in the Brides of Alba series, and the early Irish Celtic Fires of Gleannmara trilogy.

Reviews

[Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

The explosive conclusion to The Brides of Alba Trilogy, perfect for fans of medieval romance and Arthurian legend.



Filled with action, conspiracy, and steeped in legendary faith, this book reminded me just how much I really like Linda Windsor's books. This book has strong characters, and weaves the faith into the fabric of the story. I really like how this book shows how faith was a big part of the political atmosphere, being twisted by some for their own purposes, and the importance of standing strong on the truth.



Kella is a multi-lingual heroine, well versed in other languages spoken and written. She carries a shameful secret that binds her, and leaves her questioning God's forgiveness and love. She is stubborn and charming, the youngest of a household of boys, her strength is balanced with her vulnerability, making her real and a likable character.



Alyn was by far my favorite, he is at a crossroads in his life, yet he never waivers in being supportive and protective of Kella. He is always putting others first. I admired his humility, and calm, he is the exact opposite and perfect compliment for Kella's more impulsive nature.



Overall, this was an engaging, and entertaining read from beginning to end, I love how it blends faith and Arthurian legend, with history and romance. The characters are well developed, and I liked how the stakes rose as the book progressed. A satisfying conclusion to this series.



I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

First posted on my blog, Legacy of a Writer.

Rebel is a great conclusion to this wonderful series! I honestly didn't expect to like the Brides of Alba series as much as I have—but I'm almost crazy about them! I LOVE anything medieval-ish, and this series takes place in the late 6th century, so…yep, Linda Windsor is now a new favorite author of mine!!

I really grew to love the two main characters! Both Alyn and Kella caught my interest as children when I read Healer, so I was eager to read about them in Rebel now that they've grown up. Kella surprised me in a very big way (though I won't say how to prevent giving away a spoiler ;-), but after I got over my surprise, it really helped to shape her character and show her growth throughout the novel.

And while I really loved the characters, what I loved most about Rebel—this whole series, really!—is the historical detail that Windsor goes into! Not only is there a lot of suspense, adventure, and even some sword-play, but there is also a large amount of history woven in. And very tastefully done—I never grew bored or felt the details too tedious. A few times it got complicating, but the information at the beginning of the book helps a lot!

The way Alyn and Kella’s wedding is brought about was really neat, and I just loved watching them fall in love with each other. While the book is gruesome in places, I don’t think it’s too mature of a read for teens—as long as they don’t have a weak stomach. While there are a few scenes between a husband and wife, Windsor did a great job of keeping the book clean. All in all Rebel lived up to the expectations I had for it. I can’t wait to see what Linda Windsor will write next!

[Laura · Rating 2 out of 5]

Found myself tripping over the words in this book. Just generally hard to go into.

[Carol Arnold · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was my least favorite of the Brides of Alba series simply because of the slow start. I almost quit after just a few chapters. This trilogy by Linda Windsor makes me wonder when the rules of grammar and sentence structure changed. On reading her bio at the end of the book, I see that she has won multiple prestigious awards for her writing. I just don't understand that. Maybe I am just too old fashioned. While she does tell excellent stories, she continuously uses incomplete sentences. A few examples are: Page 39. "That and an occasional draft." Page 39. "A new one." Page 139. "No matter how hard she'd scrubbed her cheeks to bring out the rose in them, she could easily gobble a pinch of meat, a fist of bread, and head straight back to her oh-so-soft bed." That sentence just confused me! Page 173. "And drew her across the distance and into the warmth of their embrace."

However, in Mrs. Windsor's favor, she does come up with some amazing statements. An example is on page 86. "None of us is, dear one. Nor does God expect us to be perfect. All He expects of us is to try, and when we fail, repent and try again. It is only by trying again and again, like a warrior who practices throw, that we better ourselves, hence moving closer to Christ's perfection." Here is another good one on page 97. "I believe that the more one learns of creation, the closer one draws to the mind of the Creator."

So, after reading three, and only three, of Linda Windsor's books, my take-away is that she tells an excellent story. However, as I have been dubbed the "grammar police" by my family, I find her lack of sentence structure too annoying to want to read more of her books.

[Valerie · Rating 4 out of 5]

These books by Linda Windsor sure make me want to learn a lot more about my British ancestors and their history! I greatly appreciated learning about the Celtic Church and its possible predecessor, and about the origins of the Arthur stories. I will be reading her Fires of Gleannmara series soon.
This book Rebel, being about a man of God/priest/prophet was especially unique and needed in this genre.

[Linda · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the third and last book in The Brides of Alba series. Kella is told that the man she loves is dead and that her father is missing. Alyn, a childhood friend, is determined to help Kella find her father.

I liked the first 2 books in the series, Healer and Thief, and enjoyed Rebel. I'm glad I read it, but some scenes were too far-fetched for my taste. It is well-written, but wasn't my favorite in the series. If you like touches of mild fantasy then you will like Rebel.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The third in a series of books about three “Scottish” brothers during the early Christian times and the women they eventually marry. Alyn is the youngest and was training as a priest but due to a horrendous accident he returns home to his family and questions his path for the future.

[Kara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this series!

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read

I waited to read all three & combine them. I think the three could be made into movies like the Harry Potter books or C. S. Lewis's Narnia Chronicles.

[Kaye · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fabulous end to a great series!

[Krista Apple · Rating 5 out of 5]

love king Arthur and this stuff wish I could find more

[Melissa]

Driver Library - R9.95

[Victor Gentile · Rating 5 out of 5]

Linda Windsor in her new book, “Rebel” Book Three in The Brides of Alba series published by David C. Cook returns us to the days of Arthur

From the back cover: Arthurian Scotland shines in this tale of regret, redemption and unexpected grace.

With Merlin dead, the succession undecided, and the Celtic church on the defensive, intrigue sweeps the court of the High King Arthur. Kella O’Toole is consumed with the news that her fiancé is dead and then she must defy Queen Gwenhyfar’s orders to search for her missing father. Alyn, a disillusioned priest who questions his calling, agrees to help her. After a perilous journey, they encounter a threatening viper’s nest of treachery. A story of love and faith this brilliantly researched and vividly imagined novel is the memorable climax to the Brides of Alba series.

Legends have their basis in reality and Linda Windsor has done extensive research to tell the story of “Rebel”. Want to know how Church history plays a part in the Arthurian tale then this book is for you. Does the word, “druid” bring up an image of a black-cloaked figure with long finger nails chanting mystical incantations? In reality a druid is a professional, a doctor, judge or teacher. Here is something that Ms. Windsor talks about and that is her daughter got involved in Wicca and did not want to hear about Christianity. The way Ms. Windsor was able to reach her daughter and bring her back was through telling her about all the research for this book. Possible you have a friend also involved in New Age philosophy or even Wicca then give them this book. Christianity shines through these pages and on top of everything this is also a tale of adventure and romance. Ms. Windsor did an outstanding job in this book making history, legend and her characters really come alive. I liked this book and I believe you will too.

If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.

To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for free from Wynn-Wynn Media for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review: If you love Scotland, Arthurian legend, and medieval history, you are in for a treat with the Brides of Alba series! Considering these are some of my absolute favorite things to read about, it is no wonder that I love this series so much! Rebel is the third book in the Brides of Alba series. Windsor has really done her research with this series and her other historical novels set in this time period showing a lot of little known information of that time in history (especially in regards to the Arthurian legends, Britain's early history and the early church). The novels are jam-packed with maps, places, character lists, and other information pertaining to historical data pertinent to the history and background of the story.

My copy of Rebel is an advance kindle copy and an uncorrected proof, so it does not have the map and or an option for me to go to a "table of contents" (I assume they will be added) I was very glad to have my paperback copies to refer to the references when I needed to. This is just a suggestion to readers, that if you are going to read an advance copy, this is one of those books where you definitely will want to refer to the list of characters and map a lot, so I would try to get the advance copy in paperback if you can.

I really love Linda's weaving of the Arthurian characters and legend into the plot. They are not the main characters, but it is neat to have these familiar characters in the background of the story. Although, these Arthurian characters may not always do what one would expect. There is a twist on the Arthurian legend in Windsor's novels, which even ties in with the Biblical history. Windsor explains it all in her extra references and it is fascinating.

The story itself has a great plot with two lovable characters. They both grow in their faith as they travel on a journey full of adventure and exciting battle scenes (and of course a very satisfying romance)! I give this book 5 stars. It is a clean read.

I want to thank David C Cook, Linda Windsor, & NetGalley for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review.The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.

[Mojoboy31 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Linda Windsor spins another epic tale that you won't be able to put down. As wonderful as Healer (book one) was, I think Rebel is better.

Since that one scene in the beginning of Healer, I was curious about the young Alyn and Kella, and wanted to see more of them. In Rebel, I got my wish and then some.

Rebel follows Alyn and Kella, years after the events of Healer. Much has changed in their lives since the events of Healer, and the world has changed much as well. Alyn is a former priest, and Kella is a scribe for Queen Gwenhyfar. Both Alyn and Kella are struggling with inner turmoils, and both are lost in their own way.

Rebel casts a darker picture than the first two books, especially in the beginning. The political tensions of Arthur's court take a much more active role in Rebel, especially in the beginning. Everything seems to be deteriorating, Arthur is growing closer to the Roman church, causing much strife with the Celtic church and the pagan tribes alike.

An ambush on the outskirts leaves Kella's father, Egan, Champion of Glenarden, missing. Alyn and Kella set off in search for answers, and for her father.

The bleakness-- coupled with more than a fair amount of strangeness-- drag the beginning down some.
But once the book picks up, it's nonstop. You won't want to put it down for any reason until you're finished. And the ending is very rewarding; definitely makes the effort feel worth it.

The last leg of the book is so good, that it makes book three my personal favorite of the trilogy.
The characters are lovable, easy to relate to, easy to root for, easy to care about. The plot moves at a good pace, the message is beautifully fantastic, and the action is as good as ever; in fact, the action is the best of the trilogy.

In all, this book is one of the best I've read in a very long time. I can not stress it's excellence more, nor can I stress how much I loved it enough.

Anyone interested historical fiction, Celtic culture, Arthurian myth, Christian fiction, spiritual warfare, and epic adventures need to read this series.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alyn O'Bryne has returned to his homeland after spending the last six years studying in the East. He arrives at Arthur's court to find things in an uproar due to the death of Merlin. Feisty Kella O'Toole, a foster-sister of Alyn's, is the queen's scribe. She's holding a secret that can jeopardize her standing at the Court. When word arrives of an attack on the border guard and her father is missing and her fiance is dead, Kella is determined to do whatever she can to find her father. Alyn agrees to run an errand for the queen - see the Grail genealogies safely delivered to the priestesses of the Grail Church. With the land in an uproar between the Grail and Celtic churches over the teaching of the Roman Church, Alyn comes to realize that God has a far bigger mission for this unworthy priest. Will he heed God's call? And will Kella find the forgiveness that she longs for?

This is the third and final book in the Brides of Alba Series. Like the other two, this one is action packed and filled with lively characters. I had been waiting anxiously for this book to come out and was glad to be able to read it. I love the way that the author makes the history of Britain's early years come to life along with the struggle of the early Christian church. Very similar in nature to her Irish series, Fires of Glennmara, this series looks at Christianity in early Scot/British history.

I recommend this book to those who are intrigued by all things Celtic, fans of historical romance, and Christian fiction.

My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Rating - 5 stars

[Kathleen (Kat) Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is set in late Sixth Century AD. Alyn O'Byrne and Kella O'Toole are the two main characters in this book who have been sent on a very important mission for to deliver the written books Kella has scribed to Mons Seion near Fortingall. Through trial and tribulation, these two characters who are childhood family friends find themselves rediscovering who they are along the way. They are also trying to find Kella's love Lorne who has been lost in a battle between the Miathi and one of King Arthur's armies who were ambushed along with her father Egan O'Toole.

Both Alyn and Kella's family play a very important role in the fate of both of these characters past, present and future. Through strong character development and story research and background, this book should be labeled as Historical Non-Fiction along with Fiction. Through a very rigorous search of history, Linda Windsor has very effectively written a book about a time where magic, mythology and history combine to make one heck of a great read!!

Sit down, grab a comfy blanket and be prepared to be whirled away from the first chapter!

I received Rebel by Linda Windsor compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. This is third book in the Brides of Alba Series and I felt so engulfed by this book that I wish there was another book after Rebel to continue the story of these two characters!! I rate this book a 5 out of 5 stars!

[G · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Brides of Alba Series

Kella O’Toole is a language expert and scribe for Queen Gwenhyfar, and has just discovered that she is pregnant by her fiancé, Lorne. Alyn just returned from his six years of studies in the East. There Alyn learned many new things, but when his teacher was killed during some research, he begins to question his commitment to the priesthood. The court is rife with rumors with the death of Merlin and the arrival of Cassian, the archbishop of the Roman church. When word of a battle that leaves many dead, including Kella’s fiancé as well as her father, a contingent starts out and Kella sneaks into the company. Alyn notices her and immediately puts her under his protection as they move toward their home, not knowing whom to trust.

The setting for Rebel is during the King Arthur era, highly researched by Linda Windsor making the story vivid for readers. She portrays the characters with such depth that the reader easily empathizes with and understands their struggles. The history included creates a complete picture of the era making the reader feel as if they are living there with the other characters. This is the last of the trilogy, but the first one I have read. I will definitely be picking up the others to read, as well as finding other books written by Windsor. If you enjoy history and romance joined with Christian growth, then you definitely need to pick up this novel, as well as the other two.

Received Galley from NetGalley.com

[Michelle Griep · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like a big slab of chocolate cake tops off a great meal, REBEL is a satisfying end to this fast-paced historical trilogy. Author Linda Windsor weaves her facts seamlessly into a story that will stick with you long after you've closed the cover.

Kella is a feisty heroine, which is quite the combination with hero Alyn's somewhat laid-back personality. He's no pushover, however, even though he's a former priest. Their relationship is as tumultuous as the bickering warlords around them.

I really enjoyed this series. I was hoping for a bit more of a reunion with the heroes/heroines of the previous 2 books (HEALER and THIEF), but that didn't happen. Guess I'll just have to re-read those, eh? Which won't be a problem, because the Brides of Alba trilogy has earned a spot on my bookshelf.

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Part of a series of three I won as a First Read. No, I'm not reading them all at once, but in order. :)

O.K., I can be boring and tell you about how wonderfully the characters are brought to life, or how artfully the story is spun, or how successfully this series of novels both entertains as shares what faith can do. But instead, I will simply say that Linda Windsor has created one of the best series of Christian fiction I have read in a very long time. She has successfully woven the power of faith into a story for not only lovers of historical fiction, Scottish history, but done so in a way the preteens through grandparents will love to read. I will be making copies of her books available to all of my students.

[Gloria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book in the Brides of Alba series. It follows Alyn, returned from the Middle East to Briton during a time when the Roman church is trying to impose its authority over the Christians in Britain and the Celtic church. Kella O'Toole is Gwenhyfer's scribe. She believed the deceptions of a knight, and then he was declared dead after a battle. Arthur is shifting alliances and the system of who will be the next high king, which results in terrible uncertainties and wars.

Alyn and Kella marry in Glenarden, on their way to deliver certain items to a particular place. Certain surprises occur along the way - some pleasant, some very dangerous. Their particular gifts and callings are revealed in the end, resulting in a better society.

[Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won this book through the goodreads giveaway. This book took me awhile to get interested in, however the plot line was enjoyable. I wouldn't count it among my favorites, but its not among my least favorites either.

[Bookster · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was an amazing book! I think I liked the third book even more than the first two, which is saying a lot. the plot surprised me at every turn, providing me with a fresh read with a firm base in Scripture.

[Karen Stoller · Rating 5 out of 5]

character development just pulled me in - the historical references and research done by the author make this a book to read if you love a good Authurian novel.

[Janell · Rating 3 out of 5]

not nearly as good as the first two books in the series.

[Kelley Mathews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great setting, well-developed characters. I always love the end of a series, especially one set in ancient Scotland. Themes of grace, forgiveness, and faith are strong.