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Warriors #1
Bound to the Warrior
A Heart Unconquered
Widowed Saxon Lady Ediva Dunmow will do anything to protect her people—even marry one of the invading Norman knights. The king sees it as a way to keep Ediva, her lands and her tenants subdued. But Ediva's embittered heart, still healing from the abuse of her first husband, will not yield so easily.
Marriage never held any appeal for Adrien de Ries. Yet it is his king's will, and perhaps his Lord's, too—though he finds his faith tested daily by Ediva's staunch refusal to trust him. As a knight, Adrien survived many battles, but the fight to win Ediva's heart may be his most challenging—and rewarding.
Widowed Saxon Lady Ediva Dunmow will do anything to protect her people—even marry one of the invading Norman knights. The king sees it as a way to keep Ediva, her lands and her tenants subdued. But Ediva's embittered heart, still healing from the abuse of her first husband, will not yield so easily.
Marriage never held any appeal for Adrien de Ries. Yet it is his king's will, and perhaps his Lord's, too—though he finds his faith tested daily by Ediva's staunch refusal to trust him. As a knight, Adrien survived many battles, but the fight to win Ediva's heart may be his most challenging—and rewarding.
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 5, 2013
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562 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
February 19, 2017
I had this book on my shelf for quite some time and I was really excited to finally get the chance to read it. And it didn't deceive me one bit.
This is the first historical fiction by Barbara Phinney. Before moving to historical, she used to write suspense. Her love of suspense is easily sensed in the book. There is actually some kind of mystery going on especially in the second half of the book.
I really loved this story. After the Norman conquest of England, Adrien (Norman) is asked by the king to marry Ediva (Saxon) and become lord of her keep. Both of them aren't thrilled at the idea, especially Ediva, whose first marriage wasn't great to say the least.
I loved seeing them both grow, change and fall in love with each other. Adrien's faith is very important to him, whereas Ediva feels God has turned His back on her. Her journey is also an important part of the story.
I'm really looking forward to read Kenneth, Adrien's sergeant, and Clara's story. They were both introduced in this book :)
I highly recommend this book!
This is the first historical fiction by Barbara Phinney. Before moving to historical, she used to write suspense. Her love of suspense is easily sensed in the book. There is actually some kind of mystery going on especially in the second half of the book.
I really loved this story. After the Norman conquest of England, Adrien (Norman) is asked by the king to marry Ediva (Saxon) and become lord of her keep. Both of them aren't thrilled at the idea, especially Ediva, whose first marriage wasn't great to say the least.
I loved seeing them both grow, change and fall in love with each other. Adrien's faith is very important to him, whereas Ediva feels God has turned His back on her. Her journey is also an important part of the story.
I'm really looking forward to read Kenneth, Adrien's sergeant, and Clara's story. They were both introduced in this book :)
I highly recommend this book!
February 24, 2013
3.5 Stars
Since I'm more of a Western/Edwardian/Gilded Age fan, I wasn't sure if I would like this book since it was more Medieval. But, with the added suspense plot, I found it rather enjoyable. I especially enjoyed Ediva's strong character considering the time this took place. I also loved the irony of the mutual belief that the Saxons believed the Normans barbaric (or at least below them) and vise-versa lol. All-in-all, good book:)
Since I'm more of a Western/Edwardian/Gilded Age fan, I wasn't sure if I would like this book since it was more Medieval. But, with the added suspense plot, I found it rather enjoyable. I especially enjoyed Ediva's strong character considering the time this took place. I also loved the irony of the mutual belief that the Saxons believed the Normans barbaric (or at least below them) and vise-versa lol. All-in-all, good book:)
August 6, 2016
I really enjoyed this book. I was glad to see Ediva grow as a person, but for a while there she was really annoying. I loved Adrien. I could fangirl over this guy. I also totally called the ending.
January 28, 2022
This was an enjoyable story, and I don't want to be too critical, I really don't. What I will say is its one of those Historical novels that I found frustrating, because there's no real "sense" of period. The story could very easily have been set at any time and in any country. It could just as well have been a Western.
There was nothing to make it a Medieval novel except the characters having swords and talking about William the Conqueror.
The religion is very, very much modern Protestantism. Again, I appreciate the author wanted to kind of make this a parable with a strong spiritual theme. That's fine, it really is- but I feel that such a story doesn't "need" to be Medieval fiction, because that's not what religion was like in the 11th century. It feels cliched and really anacronistic in the setting.
Finally, whilst there were some historical details that were pretty accurate, a lot weren't and they kind of stood out.
I suppose castles are cumpulsory in Medieval Fiction, but people in 11th century England did not live in stone castles with battlements. Not every Saxon Lord had one.
Every British schoolchild can probably remember being taught about Motte and Bailey castles when they were 11 or 12 years old. Learning about simple wooden keeps, surrounded by a wooden palisade wall on a man made hill or mound, and that these were what the first castles in Britain, constructed in the years after the Norman Conquest looked like.
Yeah, that.
Again, I'm going to say this wasn't a bad book, but it really depends what you're looking for.
If you're looking for a Christian Romance set in the aftermath of the Norman Conquest, consider the Age of Conquest Series by Tamara Leighinstead. If you just want a clean romance, and some escapism then read this.
There was nothing to make it a Medieval novel except the characters having swords and talking about William the Conqueror.
The religion is very, very much modern Protestantism. Again, I appreciate the author wanted to kind of make this a parable with a strong spiritual theme. That's fine, it really is- but I feel that such a story doesn't "need" to be Medieval fiction, because that's not what religion was like in the 11th century. It feels cliched and really anacronistic in the setting.
Finally, whilst there were some historical details that were pretty accurate, a lot weren't and they kind of stood out.
I suppose castles are cumpulsory in Medieval Fiction, but people in 11th century England did not live in stone castles with battlements. Not every Saxon Lord had one.
Every British schoolchild can probably remember being taught about Motte and Bailey castles when they were 11 or 12 years old. Learning about simple wooden keeps, surrounded by a wooden palisade wall on a man made hill or mound, and that these were what the first castles in Britain, constructed in the years after the Norman Conquest looked like.
Yeah, that.
Again, I'm going to say this wasn't a bad book, but it really depends what you're looking for.
If you're looking for a Christian Romance set in the aftermath of the Norman Conquest, consider the Age of Conquest Series by Tamara Leighinstead. If you just want a clean romance, and some escapism then read this.
March 28, 2025
Wow! Barbara Phinney has outdone herself! I’d previously read the third book in the ‘warrior’ series and loved it, when I realized it was a series, I had to read all of them!
I adored Adrian and Ediva. Two people thrust into a marriage neither wanted, but despite past hurts, mistrust and political tension- they both make an effort to earn each other’s trust.
Adrian’s fine example of Christ like love and patience for Ediva is inspiring, while her call to a higher standard of protection and care, shows a wonderful example of how God puts people together for his purpose! This was such a good read! Highly recommend!!!
I adored Adrian and Ediva. Two people thrust into a marriage neither wanted, but despite past hurts, mistrust and political tension- they both make an effort to earn each other’s trust.
Adrian’s fine example of Christ like love and patience for Ediva is inspiring, while her call to a higher standard of protection and care, shows a wonderful example of how God puts people together for his purpose! This was such a good read! Highly recommend!!!
April 30, 2018
This was okay for me, more of a 2.5 star. I liked the time period but knew pretty early on what the mystery was all about and who was at the heart of it. I found some of the choices of the characters rather frustrating with how casual they were in seeking for answers and responding to some rather immediate threats. The day to day responsibilities of the lady was interesting to read about for me.
December 19, 2022
3.5 stars. This novel was better than I expected. It was much deeper, more realistic, and the importance of including Christ in the hero and heroine's healing journeys was much appreciated and very touching.
June 4, 2017
Awesome historical fiction quick read, with plenty of suspense and romance to go around.
February 5, 2020
This book was so. darn. good. Highly recommend to anyone who loves a good romance, or anyone who likes a story set in the time of knights and castles.
March 17, 2021
3.5*
A LoveInspired (Harlequin's Christian line) book set in the 12th century, Bound to the Warrior is exactly what you're hoping for when you pick up a book like this: wonderfully romantic, slightly cheesy, and subtly Christian (yet somehow projecting Protestant belief structures despite it being a very much Catholic culture?!), with evil villains and a dashing hero. Still, Phinney adds new depth to the story with historical details and a lovely variety of characters. Ultimately, this is the satisfying quick-read Christian historical romance you need. (Plus! There are two more in the series that include sneak peeks of our main characters from the first book!)
A LoveInspired (Harlequin's Christian line) book set in the 12th century, Bound to the Warrior is exactly what you're hoping for when you pick up a book like this: wonderfully romantic, slightly cheesy, and subtly Christian (yet somehow projecting Protestant belief structures despite it being a very much Catholic culture?!), with evil villains and a dashing hero. Still, Phinney adds new depth to the story with historical details and a lovely variety of characters. Ultimately, this is the satisfying quick-read Christian historical romance you need. (Plus! There are two more in the series that include sneak peeks of our main characters from the first book!)
March 6, 2015
I really loved this inspirational romance novel. It's beautifully written, with an interesting plot, and the characters are wonderfully developed. The heroine, Ediva, does have a couple of TSTL moments where I wanted to strangle her, but overall the book made for very pleasant reading.
Ediva and Adrien are ordered to be married by the Norman invader, Duke William, now the new King of England. Ediva, newly widowed when her husband was killed in the war against the Normans, wants nothing to do with any man, especially not some Norman stranger. But, having no choice, she capitulates to the King's order. Ediva and Adrien literally meet moments before they are ordered before the priest and married. The two then travel back to Ediva's--now Adrien's--holding, where the story progresses.
Ediva has pretty much abandoned her faith. After enduring five years of marriage to a cruel monster and suffering unspeakable physical brutality at his hands, she feels that God has abandoned her. It doesn't help that her spiritual advisor has told her over and over again that she pretty much deserves everything she has been forced to endure. On the other hand, Adrien is deeply religious and is very disturbed by Ediva's apparent lack of faith.
As the story progresses, Adrien's attraction to Ediva grows and eventually blossoms into love. As for Ediva, she finds herself coming to care for the quiet, gentle man, who is nothing like her previous husband. Adrien's first attempts at wooing Ediva are a bit clumsy, as he is unused to women and had never previously thought to be married. Indeed, up until then Adrien's life has been that of a soldier and he pretty much lives to serve his king on the battlefield. Ediva cannot imagine caring for a man, who will happily leave her at the drop of a hat, for war.
The story that unfolds is very sweet. Adrien is extremely gentle and patient with Ediva...even going so far as to promise her that he will not insist on his marital rights until she is ready. There is some excitement added to the plot by way of a conspiracy to kill Adrien. The Christian aspect is prevalent throughout the story, without being preachy, as Ediva struggles with her faith, and Adrien tries to find a way to help her back to God. I really enjoyed this story and would highly recommend it as a worthwhile read to anyone who enjoys this genre of books. FYI, as you might expect with Inspirational romance novels, but is not always the case, this is a super clean romance. Happy reading!
April 23, 2016
2.5
This was just okay for me.
The widow Lady Ediva Dunmow has spent the last year recovering from her abusive marriage, rebuilding her life and finally enjoying running her keep and helping her people. She was married off at the young age of fifteen and spent five years suffering abuse from her husband. She has no plans to marry again, but the new King William has different ideas. When Adrien de Ries is summed to meet the king the last thing he expects is to be given a new wife. Adrien has spent his life being a soldier and fighting in wars, he has no idea what to do with a wife.
Ediva has had it rough and I tried to cut her some slack, but I just had a hard time connecting to her. She does get better as it goes on. I liked Adrien, he has a lot of patience and a genuine desire to help his wife heal and have a real marriage. It was nice to see them come to understand and care for one another. I did like the time period and setting and overall story, but still had a hard time connecting with it.
I think it was just a little more on the religious side than I was expecting (the Harlequin Inspiration line can vary on the religious levels). There's a big focus on Ediva coming back to church, finding God and forgiving her dead husband, etc. If you like Christian fiction with heavy religious themes then you'd probably enjoy this more than I did.
Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: Mild. Mention of past abuse - no details, some fighting
Religious: Heavy
Source: Amazon
This was just okay for me.
The widow Lady Ediva Dunmow has spent the last year recovering from her abusive marriage, rebuilding her life and finally enjoying running her keep and helping her people. She was married off at the young age of fifteen and spent five years suffering abuse from her husband. She has no plans to marry again, but the new King William has different ideas. When Adrien de Ries is summed to meet the king the last thing he expects is to be given a new wife. Adrien has spent his life being a soldier and fighting in wars, he has no idea what to do with a wife.
Ediva has had it rough and I tried to cut her some slack, but I just had a hard time connecting to her. She does get better as it goes on. I liked Adrien, he has a lot of patience and a genuine desire to help his wife heal and have a real marriage. It was nice to see them come to understand and care for one another. I did like the time period and setting and overall story, but still had a hard time connecting with it.
I think it was just a little more on the religious side than I was expecting (the Harlequin Inspiration line can vary on the religious levels). There's a big focus on Ediva coming back to church, finding God and forgiving her dead husband, etc. If you like Christian fiction with heavy religious themes then you'd probably enjoy this more than I did.
Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: Mild. Mention of past abuse - no details, some fighting
Religious: Heavy
Source: Amazon
August 6, 2016
There aren't many Christian medieval romances around (as compared to other time periods) so I was pleasantly surprised when I ran across this book. Having never read a story by Barbara Phinney before, I wasn't sure what to expect. I wasn't disappointed. The story felt authentic to the time period in every way---the politics, the castle/village, the clothing, and the customs. Although Adrien was almost too perfect at times, he was exactly the balm that Ediva needed. She endured a brutal first marriage and lost her faith as a result. Ediva comes off as a cold character, especially towards Adrien, because she keeps everything bottled up. The romance was gradual but believable. There was some suspense/mystery involved but I enjoyed the romance the best. I also appreciate the strong spiritual thread that is woven throughout this book. As Ediva falls in love with her husband, her faith in God's goodness also grows. I am glad I picked up this book and I hope Ms. Phinney writes more medieval romances (and that Love Inspired continues to publish them)!
June 19, 2013
I would really probably give this one 3 1/2 stars. I enjoyed the book and many aspects of it. The only negative to it, I would say, is that Ediva's character seemed inconsistent to me in her strengths and weaknesses, and she was often not very likeable. Adrien on the other hand, although he had his faults, was a very likeable character. The ending seemed to sum up rather quickly too. Overall, however, it was a sweet and enjoyable romance.
July 6, 2015
This is the second time I've read this book and I really enjoy it!! There are so few Medieval Christian Romances available so this is a particular gem! I loved Ediva and Adrien. I could clearly see their Keep and the villagers making their way about from day to day working and living. I loved the story of forgiveness and redemption amidst such incredible personal pain and loss. A wonderful, inspiring story! I can't wait to start the next in the series and find others by this author!
September 11, 2016
This one contained a little too much religious talk for my taste. Sadly, I also felt like the courtship was insipid, lackluster... I think in the author's desire to create "clean" romance, she washed it clean of any passion or deep feeling. It seemed like the courtship was conducted mostly in the minds of the main characters, as they battled with what they sought to overcome in themselves, rather than in any actual interactions with one another, which were few and disappointing.
February 18, 2016
I don't normally read the Saxon/Norman medieval books because most of the ones I've seen are very lusty and graphic. This book was a Love Inspired Historical, so I knew it would be an inspirational romance. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the book--the author's attention to the details of the time period and her main characters made the book a very enjoyable read.
August 9, 2016
Somebody tell the religion-addict-author that religion and romance make a terrible mix. Utterly and completely unappealing stuff.
It was the first and the last time I spend moments of my lifetime on her stupid words she wrote for money.
DNF at 35% due to blood pressure rising up at the crap I was reading.
It was the first and the last time I spend moments of my lifetime on her stupid words she wrote for money.
DNF at 35% due to blood pressure rising up at the crap I was reading.
June 9, 2013
Christian historical romance
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews