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Courtly Love #1
A Sword for His Lady
He'd defend her keep...
After proving himself on the field of battle, Ramon de Segrave is appointed to the Council of Barons by Richard the Lionheart. But instead of taking his most formidable warrior on his latest Crusade, the king assigns Ramon an even more dangerous task-woo and win the Lady of Thistle Keep.
If only she'd yield her heart
Isabel of Camoys is a capable widow with no intention of surrendering her valuable estate. She's fought long and hard for her independence, and if the price is loneliness, then so be it. She will not yield...even if she does find the powerful knight's heated embrace impossible to ignore.
But when her land is threatened, Isabel reluctantly agrees to allow Ramon and his army to defend the keep-knowing that the price may very well be her heart.
After proving himself on the field of battle, Ramon de Segrave is appointed to the Council of Barons by Richard the Lionheart. But instead of taking his most formidable warrior on his latest Crusade, the king assigns Ramon an even more dangerous task-woo and win the Lady of Thistle Keep.
If only she'd yield her heart
Isabel of Camoys is a capable widow with no intention of surrendering her valuable estate. She's fought long and hard for her independence, and if the price is loneliness, then so be it. She will not yield...even if she does find the powerful knight's heated embrace impossible to ignore.
But when her land is threatened, Isabel reluctantly agrees to allow Ramon and his army to defend the keep-knowing that the price may very well be her heart.
352 pages, Paperback
First published July 7, 2015
40 people are currently reading
897 people want to read
About the author
Mary Wine
83 books818 followersMary Wine has written over twenty novels that take her readers from the pages of history to the far reaches of space. Recent winner of a 2008 EPPIE Award for erotic western romance, her book LET ME LOVE YOU was quoted “Not to be missed…” by Lora Leigh, New York Times best-selling author.
When she’s not abusing a laptop, she spends time with her sewing machines…all of them! Making historical garments is her second passion. From corsets and knickers to court dresses of Elizabeth I, the most expensive clothes she owns are hundreds of years out of date. She’s also an active student of martial arts, having earned the rank of second degree black belt.
When she’s not abusing a laptop, she spends time with her sewing machines…all of them! Making historical garments is her second passion. From corsets and knickers to court dresses of Elizabeth I, the most expensive clothes she owns are hundreds of years out of date. She’s also an active student of martial arts, having earned the rank of second degree black belt.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
February 9, 2016
Mary Wine has long been one of my favorite historical romance authors. It's hard to put into words why that is, other than to say she just brings a little something extra to her stories. More detail, but not so much that it's boring. The characters feel right, like they truly do belong in the time she's placed them. These are the things that make her standout as one of the best in the genre, and why I always look forward to her books.
Ramon is stubborn, arrogant, and determined to marry Isabel, as his King demands. But before long he finds himself in a battle of wits and wills with one of the most formidable opponents he's ever faced! And it's a woman!
This really is an entertaining story. There's humor, intrigue, danger...and plenty of passion. I'm excited to read more in the Courtly Love series, especially Ambrose's story. I'm looking forward to Ramon giving him a taste of his own taunting when he meets the woman who will be his match!
An ARC was provided by Sourcebooks Casablanca. In return I'm giving them an honest review.
Blurb...Even though this story isn't completely unique, Ms. Wine created characters who more than make up for it. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the strong, feisty, determined Isabel! She's been widowed long enough to know she doesn't need a husband to make sure the people and the lands are prosperous. But when King Richard heads off to the Crusades again and tasks his Baron, Ramon de Segrave, with marrying Isabel so that her lands will be protected, she finds herself torn between what her mind tells her she needs, and what her body won't be denied.
He'd defend her keep...
After proving himself on the field of battle, Ramon de Segrave is appointed to the Council of Barons by Richard the Lionheart. But instead of taking his most formidable warrior on his latest Crusade, the king assigns Ramon an even more dangerous task—woo and win the Lady of Thistle Keep.
If only she'd yield her heart...
Isabel of Camoys is a capable widow with no intention of surrendering her valuable estate. She's fought long and hard for her independence, and if the price is loneliness, then so be it. She will not yield... even if she does find the powerful knight's heated embrace impossible to ignore.
But when her land is threatened, Isabel reluctantly agrees to allow Ramon and his army to defend the keep—knowing that the price may very well be her heart.
Ramon is stubborn, arrogant, and determined to marry Isabel, as his King demands. But before long he finds himself in a battle of wits and wills with one of the most formidable opponents he's ever faced! And it's a woman!
This really is an entertaining story. There's humor, intrigue, danger...and plenty of passion. I'm excited to read more in the Courtly Love series, especially Ambrose's story. I'm looking forward to Ramon giving him a taste of his own taunting when he meets the woman who will be his match!
An ARC was provided by Sourcebooks Casablanca. In return I'm giving them an honest review.
May 23, 2019
Men and their swords... 😉
****3.5 Stars****
A Sword for His Lady was pretty good and it mostly gave me what I want and expect from my historical romance reads/listens. There were a few times that I felt a modern vibe especially when it came to the sex scenes. The swearing, lewd talk and behaviour just seemed a little OTT and excessive.
Saying all that, I actually liked the hero and the heroine together. Isabel had a horrible first marriage and is not at all keen to be married off again. Ramon's wasn't much better, with a disloyal and cheating wife. But what the King wants, the King gets. Luckily, with a whole bunch of lust, these two kiddywinks managed to get past their pasts and find a love that will last forever...ain't love grand???
Now, their love story was not all plain sailing. Isabel has land and a commodity that the King wants...geese. I'm sure you're all just as surprised as I was. Turns out, the king wants her geese for their feathers to make arrows...or something like that. Anyways, Isabel is the "Lady" all the boys in the Court wants. Ramon thought it was just a matter of walking in and claiming her, which unfortunately for him, was not the case. Besides the fact that Isabel's not keen, the relatives of her late husband want their land back. Ramon's got to sweet talk Isabel AND fight her despicable in-laws too. Fun and games for this Courtly Love.
The narrator does a fairly good job with the female characters but I can't say I was a fan of the voice she uses for her male characters. I found the narrator was easy to listen to and I never struggled to follow along or decipher when the characters changed.
A Sword for His Lady was not the worst and not the best historical romance I've listened to. A pretty good historical romance storyline that left me mostly satisfied. I may even go back and try another Mary Wine story in the future.
****3.5 Stars****
A Sword for His Lady was pretty good and it mostly gave me what I want and expect from my historical romance reads/listens. There were a few times that I felt a modern vibe especially when it came to the sex scenes. The swearing, lewd talk and behaviour just seemed a little OTT and excessive.
Saying all that, I actually liked the hero and the heroine together. Isabel had a horrible first marriage and is not at all keen to be married off again. Ramon's wasn't much better, with a disloyal and cheating wife. But what the King wants, the King gets. Luckily, with a whole bunch of lust, these two kiddywinks managed to get past their pasts and find a love that will last forever...ain't love grand???
Now, their love story was not all plain sailing. Isabel has land and a commodity that the King wants...geese. I'm sure you're all just as surprised as I was. Turns out, the king wants her geese for their feathers to make arrows...or something like that. Anyways, Isabel is the "Lady" all the boys in the Court wants. Ramon thought it was just a matter of walking in and claiming her, which unfortunately for him, was not the case. Besides the fact that Isabel's not keen, the relatives of her late husband want their land back. Ramon's got to sweet talk Isabel AND fight her despicable in-laws too. Fun and games for this Courtly Love.
The narrator does a fairly good job with the female characters but I can't say I was a fan of the voice she uses for her male characters. I found the narrator was easy to listen to and I never struggled to follow along or decipher when the characters changed.
A Sword for His Lady was not the worst and not the best historical romance I've listened to. A pretty good historical romance storyline that left me mostly satisfied. I may even go back and try another Mary Wine story in the future.
July 12, 2015
Summary
Ramon de Segrave, has fought side by side with King Richard the Lionheart, has won many battles and proved himself a man of honor and courage. Richard is planning another Crusade, and has command Ramon to stay in England, and win the hand of Isabel of Camoys so he can be a baron and gain her land and Richard is trusting him to guide his brother John while he is away. Ramon is ready to battle, but the battle against Lady Isabel will be more fierce than any he has fought. Isabel is a widow, and using her brains she has led her people and kept them out of harms way, despite having no protection. She has paid off Richard with the feathers of her geese for his arrows. Now she is independent and doesn't need or want another husband. She already had a husband that had no care for her and treated her as an object to be used and discarded. When Ramon arrives, she is not ready for his pursuit of her, but Ramon is determined to win her hand and convince her their match would be true and full of passion. But there is a threat to Isabel and the land she holds, and soon Ramon and Isabel and thrown a curve on the path to finding true love.
The Hero
Ramon de Segrave, is a man of honor. He lost his trust in woman a long time ago. He was once married, but she used him as a cuckold while he was away at war, and he has no trust when it comes to a woman's cunning. He has fought for Richard the Lionheart for as long as he can remember, and is close to the man. When he is commanded to marry Isabel he refuses, but is persuaded to give her a chance. Ramon is a hero that just make you burn. Boy was he a sexy beast...very literally. He is very alpha male, commanding and likes control, but he is honest and true to his word. He has good intentions, and is very determined when he wants something to be done. He doesn't let anything stand in his way. I love that even though he is a hardened warrior, he isn't like many men of his time. He respects women despite how he has been treated in the past. He is playful at times, and is confident in himself and others. I adored his treatment of Isobel, it was so much better than I thought, and I loved how he didn't take her seriously, but embraced her defiance and loved her spirit and tenacity.
The Heroine
Isobel, is a woman of confidence and independence. She learned under her fathers wing how to handle falcons and geese. She has brains and knows how to use them. She was married to a man who used her in the worst ways. And their marriage only last a season, which she was grateful. Isobel is a leader of her people, and has worked hard alongside those she leads to protect and makes sure everyone has their needs met. She is loyal and stubborn and has this inner strength to be admired. What I found most intriguing about Isobel is how spirited she could be and the way she defies Ramon at every turn, considering how her last marriage turned out. It was quite illuminating seeing a heroine that stood on her own (in this time period when most women were passive), and you could see how much she believed in herself and didn't back down from a fight, even knowing there could be consequences.
Plot and Story Line
A Sword For His Lady was a remarkable read and what a story!! Oh my goodness, I couldn't put this one down. Apparently I haven't read this author in the longest time, I have only read one of her other books, and reading this story reminded me how much I love her story. What was most endearing about A Sword For His Lady was how this brought history to life for me. This story is set in the late 1100's, where Richard the I or also known as Richard the Lionheart, is King, and is on the war of the Crusades. I love this time period, and Mary Wine wrote it perfectly in detail and certain aspects of description where she makes this time come virtually alive for the reader. This is what I love most about historical romance, this is what made me fall in love with it in the first place...is the HISTORY. History and romance just go so great together especially with such talent as Mary Wine. From the beginning of Isobel and Roman's meeting of each other, there is sparks and boy what sparks, I was so enthralled by the connection they have with each other. I was slowly seduced into a story of history and passion and world of danger and intrigue, and survival. We see many unique facets in this story come to life, we deal with a villain and his consort, a kidnapping, some battles, charming supporting characters, a small boy who is battling with honor and what is the right thing to do, and a love story that comes alive in these pages. Oh so many things to savor in this book and boy what a winner of a romance this was. It is stories like this that wins me over and keeps me reading this genre!! It is a book that will endear you to a time of war and passion in ways you wouldn't ever expect. I can't wait for the second book....should be a winner if its anything like this one!! I highly recommend this to any historical romance fans or a reader that is charmed by a love story rich in history and solid in her creativity of storytelling that wraps around you like the sun in the summer heat.
The Cover
GORGEOUS!! That is all I have to say, I mean seriously...who wouldn't love the rich colors, Her dress looks authentic and I love the rich colors.
Overall View
A Sword For His Lady is a powerful telling of a love story that has rich historical context, characters that spark full of energy, and a plot that guarantees the reader never a dull moment....passionate and sparkles with sensuality!!
"I conform to what many men in this world think I should on enough issues. On this one, I intend to do as I feel," Ramon interrupted her. He brushed her cheek before lying down and pulling her against him.
"There is no place I would be. In truth, I need to have you beside me."
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
June 14, 2015
Knuckle-dragging medieval knights in shining armor? Check!
A land-wealthy widow who has no say in what happens to her land? Check!
Said widow has spirit, but no one seems to care and repeatedly is humiliated. Check! (and GGGRRRRRR)
Said Knight is a new Baron and his intentions are good, in spite of the Royal command to marry said Spirited widow. Check!
A dastardly plot to take the land and the widow, hopefully killing the Baron as a bonus. Check!
Page one, the drama begins as a woman enjoying her independence finds she has little to no control over losing it, if the King so commands. Isabel tries to be strong, but she is no match for Roman, a man of immense power, charm and even honor, well except for when he was doing his own knuckle-dragging. Like oil and water, these two just can’t seem to get on the same page, but they are human and Isabel’s heart and libido are becoming her biggest betrayers.
When her life and land are threatened, all that stands between her and total ruination, is Roman. Will he prove to be a savior in disguise or is he just the lessor of two evils? Can these two find love amidst the turmoil?
A Sword for His Lady by Mary Wine is filled with romance, heat and conflicts of the heart. She takes a bold path when setting up her tale, sparing no “hard to swallow” attitudes of long ago when women were often treated without care to their pride, but “no harm” was meant. Roman becomes the perfect foil to Isabel’s ire and his greatest weapon is his charm and um, how he dances under the sheets. Lots of heat, lots of tenderness and a lot of fussing and fighting, ah, courtship back in the day…When push comes to shove and the keep is threatened, a decision must be made…fast.
I received this ARC edition from Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Courtly Love - Book 1
Publication Date July 7, 2015
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
ISBN-13: 9781492602484
Genre: Adult Historical Romance
Print Length: 320 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For More Reviews, Promotions and all things Books visit: http://tometender.blogspot.com
A land-wealthy widow who has no say in what happens to her land? Check!
Said widow has spirit, but no one seems to care and repeatedly is humiliated. Check! (and GGGRRRRRR)
Said Knight is a new Baron and his intentions are good, in spite of the Royal command to marry said Spirited widow. Check!
A dastardly plot to take the land and the widow, hopefully killing the Baron as a bonus. Check!
Page one, the drama begins as a woman enjoying her independence finds she has little to no control over losing it, if the King so commands. Isabel tries to be strong, but she is no match for Roman, a man of immense power, charm and even honor, well except for when he was doing his own knuckle-dragging. Like oil and water, these two just can’t seem to get on the same page, but they are human and Isabel’s heart and libido are becoming her biggest betrayers.
When her life and land are threatened, all that stands between her and total ruination, is Roman. Will he prove to be a savior in disguise or is he just the lessor of two evils? Can these two find love amidst the turmoil?
A Sword for His Lady by Mary Wine is filled with romance, heat and conflicts of the heart. She takes a bold path when setting up her tale, sparing no “hard to swallow” attitudes of long ago when women were often treated without care to their pride, but “no harm” was meant. Roman becomes the perfect foil to Isabel’s ire and his greatest weapon is his charm and um, how he dances under the sheets. Lots of heat, lots of tenderness and a lot of fussing and fighting, ah, courtship back in the day…When push comes to shove and the keep is threatened, a decision must be made…fast.
I received this ARC edition from Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Courtly Love - Book 1
Publication Date July 7, 2015
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
ISBN-13: 9781492602484
Genre: Adult Historical Romance
Print Length: 320 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For More Reviews, Promotions and all things Books visit: http://tometender.blogspot.com
July 9, 2015
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I'd read one other book by this author, and was somewhat put off by some questions about the historical accuracy of key points of the story. But this one was generally very well researched--set in the days of Richard Lionheart, there were loads of nice, authentic bits, like the way people's lives revolved around the church and its daily observances, the economic impact of the Crusades on England, and the fact that people paid their taxes with things like goose feathers (needed to fletch arrows for the wars).
Add a compelling story, likeable hero/heroine, detestable villain, and plenty of action. For me, this one hit the trifecta.
June 5, 2019
This was enjoyable if a bit heavy on the alpha male
July 12, 2015
I am always keen for a good medieval romance so I thought I would try this new series by a new to me author. This one was set during the times of Richard the Lion Hearted and his brother Prince John of Robin Hood fame though there is no tie to that legend (sadly). An honorable knight, a kingly commission, a spirited lady, a greedy rival, and a pivotal piece of land all mean for an exciting romantic adventure.
The story opens with Ramon de Segrave made a Baron and appointed to King Richard's Baron's Council. Ramon has been Richard's right hand man while away at war in the Holy Lands, but now Richard calls upon his most trusted knight to serve him in a different capacity. Richard sends Ramon into the Welsh borderlands to secure that land and marry the widow who holds it all to act as a stabilizing element to keep the Welsh under control and also gain a profitable holding. Ramon is not happy with this quest because after being cuckolded by one wife, he is not keen to take another even for Richard. However, he will do his duty by his king. When he sees the widowed Lady Isabel, his duty becomes lighter and much more attractive.
Lady Isabel Camoys was married off too young and to a man who didn't treat her well or appreciate her. Now that she is a widow and holds her husband's lands as her own, she has no intentions of ever giving over control to a man again. Her position is precarious at best now that Richard has taken all the knights for his new crusade with the Welsh threatening in the west and robber barons and renegade knights and men looking to increase their power and wealth in Richard's absence. She knows the sensible path is to accept de Segrave's protection and even to to accept him as her lordly husband, but old fears rise and she will fight the changes that have come upon her to her utmost.
The situation changes when Ramon's predictions about her situation come true as another knight enters the picture determined to take her and her lands by less than honorable means. Suddenly Isabel realizes that her stubbornness and distrust might have endangered her life and the life of the people in her care. Ramon shows his strength, honor, and battle skills hoping it is enough to save them all.
Alright, so this one had so many elements that I love about medieval romance plots. A beautiful, strong lady is holding key lands and a knight is sent to strengthen that hold through marriage and his knowledge. There is the greedy villain who uses the knight's honor against him even as the poor knight has a tough wooing of fair lady. I had a good time with this story line up to a point.
I get that Isabel had a bad experience and she was very young at the time so it traumatized her and I get that we need some barriers so the romance isn't bland, but a naive, willful woman who ignores common sense and wisdom can only keep me interested up to a point. She pulled a few stunts that cracked me up when she tried to outwit Ramon, but she had more than one stubborn-stupid moment, too. Her treatment and mistrust of Ramon who proved himself time and again started to get old after a while.
Ramon was the strong point. He was truly swoon-worthy whether it was his sword fighting, brilliant tactics, sharp wit, or sensual lovemaking. Definite hero material! He was amused by Isabel's antics and had such patience with her while she doubted him and fought him all the way.
The passion and sizzle in the romance whether it was the verbal sparring or Ramon showing Isabel what she missed out on the first time around was good stuff.
The book sets up for what is to come in the series and I am definitely interested to get Ramon's second in command's story.
Medieval era historical romance fans should give this one a go particularly if feisty heroines, passionate romance, and the true knight in shining armor with skills that will make you swoon does it for you.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablance for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story opens with Ramon de Segrave made a Baron and appointed to King Richard's Baron's Council. Ramon has been Richard's right hand man while away at war in the Holy Lands, but now Richard calls upon his most trusted knight to serve him in a different capacity. Richard sends Ramon into the Welsh borderlands to secure that land and marry the widow who holds it all to act as a stabilizing element to keep the Welsh under control and also gain a profitable holding. Ramon is not happy with this quest because after being cuckolded by one wife, he is not keen to take another even for Richard. However, he will do his duty by his king. When he sees the widowed Lady Isabel, his duty becomes lighter and much more attractive.
Lady Isabel Camoys was married off too young and to a man who didn't treat her well or appreciate her. Now that she is a widow and holds her husband's lands as her own, she has no intentions of ever giving over control to a man again. Her position is precarious at best now that Richard has taken all the knights for his new crusade with the Welsh threatening in the west and robber barons and renegade knights and men looking to increase their power and wealth in Richard's absence. She knows the sensible path is to accept de Segrave's protection and even to to accept him as her lordly husband, but old fears rise and she will fight the changes that have come upon her to her utmost.
The situation changes when Ramon's predictions about her situation come true as another knight enters the picture determined to take her and her lands by less than honorable means. Suddenly Isabel realizes that her stubbornness and distrust might have endangered her life and the life of the people in her care. Ramon shows his strength, honor, and battle skills hoping it is enough to save them all.
Alright, so this one had so many elements that I love about medieval romance plots. A beautiful, strong lady is holding key lands and a knight is sent to strengthen that hold through marriage and his knowledge. There is the greedy villain who uses the knight's honor against him even as the poor knight has a tough wooing of fair lady. I had a good time with this story line up to a point.
I get that Isabel had a bad experience and she was very young at the time so it traumatized her and I get that we need some barriers so the romance isn't bland, but a naive, willful woman who ignores common sense and wisdom can only keep me interested up to a point. She pulled a few stunts that cracked me up when she tried to outwit Ramon, but she had more than one stubborn-stupid moment, too. Her treatment and mistrust of Ramon who proved himself time and again started to get old after a while.
Ramon was the strong point. He was truly swoon-worthy whether it was his sword fighting, brilliant tactics, sharp wit, or sensual lovemaking. Definite hero material! He was amused by Isabel's antics and had such patience with her while she doubted him and fought him all the way.
The passion and sizzle in the romance whether it was the verbal sparring or Ramon showing Isabel what she missed out on the first time around was good stuff.
The book sets up for what is to come in the series and I am definitely interested to get Ramon's second in command's story.
Medieval era historical romance fans should give this one a go particularly if feisty heroines, passionate romance, and the true knight in shining armor with skills that will make you swoon does it for you.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablance for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 25, 2015
Originally Reviewed For: Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
Thank you Mary Wine for returning us to an excellent medieval world. As a fan of medieval romance I thrive on books from that era. Unfortunately it's not an in genre right now and the publishers aren't pushing it. So it takes guts to listen to your characters and write the story that needs to be written.. And Mary Wine does it so very well.
A Sword for His Lady is book 1 in Ms. Wine's Courtly Love Series so I am thrilled to say that there will be at least one more book after this that takes place in this genre.. YAY!!!
Isabel of Camoys is a woman of her time. She was married young for land and station and it was a horrible marriage. Again, typical of their time. But she's widowed now and holding the keep she earned. But again, she is a woman and that means her keep will never really be her own. It seems her husband's family wants it back but even more importantly the king wants her married with a strong husband so he basically gave her and her home away in marriage. So, Isabel has a choice.. marry the king's choice or marry back into the family that she loathes.. seems a no brainer to me. But Isabel really wants to be free that is until she actually meets the man the king has chosen for her.
Ramon de Segrave is the kings man, through and through. So when the king tells him he isn't going on the next crusade, instead he is to be landed and married, Ramon accepts, begrudgingly, but he accepts. Upon finding a home filled with loyalty, laughter and love, Ramon is intrigued. When he discovers that the woman of the keep has run the estate for years and it's healthy financially he is amazed. Upon meeting Isabel he is smitten. Now all he needs to do is convince her that he's the perfect man for her.
This book was just swoonworthy.. Ramon is truly a knight in shining armor just what a fair maiden dreams of. But he's also earthy and intelligent and well worth falling for.
One of the truly excellent things about this book was the fact that Isabel truly was a woman of her time. What most of us never realize is that the woman of the keep was so much more than the arm candy that she has been portrayed as. A well trained young woman of nobility from that time had to run entire businesses.. the farming, the tanning, the payroll, the servants, the infirmary, the... get the picture. She wasn't expected to be the "little woman" she was expected to run the estate and make her husband's life run as smoothly as possible. And when he was away on crusade or during some other battle, she was his voice. The middle ages in some ways were way more progressive than any of us realize.. Mary Wine brings so much of that to life in A Sword for His Lady because she also realized that while the woman did all of the work, the man really was needed for his strength and sword arm. Without a strong defense a keep could fall to political enemies or barbarians or... anyone who wanted it.
Ms. Wine also did not make King Richard the Lion Hearted a sympathetic character. She made him the "rock star" that he was. A man with huge charisma and little love for his country. This was the man who is still revered in England yet managed to bankrupt his country and spent little of the eleven years that he was king actually in England..
While doing all of this, Ms. Wine tells a beautiful romance. A Sword for His Lady is the kind of book that I used to adore. A fabulous historical novel laced with fact and fiction while telling a beautiful, sexy love story. So again, Thank You Ms. Wine.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of A Sword For His Lady, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on July 7, 2015
Thank you Mary Wine for returning us to an excellent medieval world. As a fan of medieval romance I thrive on books from that era. Unfortunately it's not an in genre right now and the publishers aren't pushing it. So it takes guts to listen to your characters and write the story that needs to be written.. And Mary Wine does it so very well.
A Sword for His Lady is book 1 in Ms. Wine's Courtly Love Series so I am thrilled to say that there will be at least one more book after this that takes place in this genre.. YAY!!!
Isabel of Camoys is a woman of her time. She was married young for land and station and it was a horrible marriage. Again, typical of their time. But she's widowed now and holding the keep she earned. But again, she is a woman and that means her keep will never really be her own. It seems her husband's family wants it back but even more importantly the king wants her married with a strong husband so he basically gave her and her home away in marriage. So, Isabel has a choice.. marry the king's choice or marry back into the family that she loathes.. seems a no brainer to me. But Isabel really wants to be free that is until she actually meets the man the king has chosen for her.
Ramon de Segrave is the kings man, through and through. So when the king tells him he isn't going on the next crusade, instead he is to be landed and married, Ramon accepts, begrudgingly, but he accepts. Upon finding a home filled with loyalty, laughter and love, Ramon is intrigued. When he discovers that the woman of the keep has run the estate for years and it's healthy financially he is amazed. Upon meeting Isabel he is smitten. Now all he needs to do is convince her that he's the perfect man for her.
This book was just swoonworthy.. Ramon is truly a knight in shining armor just what a fair maiden dreams of. But he's also earthy and intelligent and well worth falling for.
One of the truly excellent things about this book was the fact that Isabel truly was a woman of her time. What most of us never realize is that the woman of the keep was so much more than the arm candy that she has been portrayed as. A well trained young woman of nobility from that time had to run entire businesses.. the farming, the tanning, the payroll, the servants, the infirmary, the... get the picture. She wasn't expected to be the "little woman" she was expected to run the estate and make her husband's life run as smoothly as possible. And when he was away on crusade or during some other battle, she was his voice. The middle ages in some ways were way more progressive than any of us realize.. Mary Wine brings so much of that to life in A Sword for His Lady because she also realized that while the woman did all of the work, the man really was needed for his strength and sword arm. Without a strong defense a keep could fall to political enemies or barbarians or... anyone who wanted it.
Ms. Wine also did not make King Richard the Lion Hearted a sympathetic character. She made him the "rock star" that he was. A man with huge charisma and little love for his country. This was the man who is still revered in England yet managed to bankrupt his country and spent little of the eleven years that he was king actually in England..
While doing all of this, Ms. Wine tells a beautiful romance. A Sword for His Lady is the kind of book that I used to adore. A fabulous historical novel laced with fact and fiction while telling a beautiful, sexy love story. So again, Thank You Ms. Wine.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of A Sword For His Lady, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on July 7, 2015
July 31, 2015
Rating 3.5 stars
Vikki’s Musings
A Sword for His Lady is the first book I have read by Mary Wine. I received this novel from the publisher via Net-Galley in exchange for an honest review. There is no doubt Ms. Wine did her research for this story. Her descriptive writing brought this long ago time to life. I was sent back to that time where men were chivalrous and women were to be placed on a pedestal and admired at a distance. A lady was expected to obey her father, and then later when she married, her husband.
Ramon De Segrave is a trusted servant of the king, Richard the Lionheart. When Richard makes him a baron and gives him lands adjoining Thistle Keep, he accepts his new mission. Although the king wants him to marry Isabel of Camoys, he pushes back, and Richard does not command that he do so.
Isabel of Camoys is a widow and very content to remain one. Even though Ramon quickly proves he is a much better man than her late husband, she still fears giving up her freedom to another man no matter how kind and caring he seems.
Once Ramon meets Isabel, he is smitten and is determined to win his fair lady’s heart. Will his patience convince Isabel that he is not only a man to be trusted, but also the keeper of her heart?
The story started out well, and I immediately liked Ramon. He’s a brave warrior, a man loyal to his king and a champion of fair ladies. Everything I love and expect in a medieval hero. Unfortunately, I never felt I learned enough about him to fall in love with his character. I did like his gentle and caring treatment of Isabel, and he uses his intellect as well as his brawn to thwart the villain.
Isabel is fairly typical for a woman of her times. She received a bad deal from her first husband, so it’s no wonder she hesitates at first when she learns the king has sent Ramon to protect her lands and wants her to marry the man. However, once the villain comes around and even kidnaps her, she still hesitates after Ramon rescues her. That irritated me. Over all, I never warmed up to Isabel’s character.
As the story unfolded, I found myself flipping through sections that were a bit tedious to read. This book definitely has a sagging middle. However, the pace does pick up toward the end again. The plot seemed a bit superficial and the characters lacked any true depth. The villain’s character was actually quite one-dimensional, and his actions are completely predictable. There were no surprises and as I read, it was if I were watching from the sidelines.
Nonetheless, A Sword for His Lady is very well-written and gave me a great sense of time and place. This is a good book for anyone who enjoys a slowly developing love story, especially if you love the medieval period of history. Ms. Wine paints a realistic picture of Richard the Lionheart as a detached ruler only interested in the funds for his crusades, a man who rarely spent any time in England. I read some of the other reviews so there are plenty of other readers who loved this book, you may as well. Reading is subjective and what one person loves another may find just okay. That was the case for me. Happy reading!
Vikki’s Musings
A Sword for His Lady is the first book I have read by Mary Wine. I received this novel from the publisher via Net-Galley in exchange for an honest review. There is no doubt Ms. Wine did her research for this story. Her descriptive writing brought this long ago time to life. I was sent back to that time where men were chivalrous and women were to be placed on a pedestal and admired at a distance. A lady was expected to obey her father, and then later when she married, her husband.
Ramon De Segrave is a trusted servant of the king, Richard the Lionheart. When Richard makes him a baron and gives him lands adjoining Thistle Keep, he accepts his new mission. Although the king wants him to marry Isabel of Camoys, he pushes back, and Richard does not command that he do so.
Isabel of Camoys is a widow and very content to remain one. Even though Ramon quickly proves he is a much better man than her late husband, she still fears giving up her freedom to another man no matter how kind and caring he seems.
Once Ramon meets Isabel, he is smitten and is determined to win his fair lady’s heart. Will his patience convince Isabel that he is not only a man to be trusted, but also the keeper of her heart?
The story started out well, and I immediately liked Ramon. He’s a brave warrior, a man loyal to his king and a champion of fair ladies. Everything I love and expect in a medieval hero. Unfortunately, I never felt I learned enough about him to fall in love with his character. I did like his gentle and caring treatment of Isabel, and he uses his intellect as well as his brawn to thwart the villain.
Isabel is fairly typical for a woman of her times. She received a bad deal from her first husband, so it’s no wonder she hesitates at first when she learns the king has sent Ramon to protect her lands and wants her to marry the man. However, once the villain comes around and even kidnaps her, she still hesitates after Ramon rescues her. That irritated me. Over all, I never warmed up to Isabel’s character.
As the story unfolded, I found myself flipping through sections that were a bit tedious to read. This book definitely has a sagging middle. However, the pace does pick up toward the end again. The plot seemed a bit superficial and the characters lacked any true depth. The villain’s character was actually quite one-dimensional, and his actions are completely predictable. There were no surprises and as I read, it was if I were watching from the sidelines.
Nonetheless, A Sword for His Lady is very well-written and gave me a great sense of time and place. This is a good book for anyone who enjoys a slowly developing love story, especially if you love the medieval period of history. Ms. Wine paints a realistic picture of Richard the Lionheart as a detached ruler only interested in the funds for his crusades, a man who rarely spent any time in England. I read some of the other reviews so there are plenty of other readers who loved this book, you may as well. Reading is subjective and what one person loves another may find just okay. That was the case for me. Happy reading!
June 16, 2021
This was fine, but what upsets me most is what an absolute WASTE of a bad-guy-kidnaps-the-heroine plotline. It lasted a total of 5 seconds and there were no stakes once a small tense conversation ended. That was an opportunity for some great angst and a dramatic reunion moment. We did not get that. A shame.
July 28, 2015
I Love to read about these infuriatingly stubborn woman
give these Alpha arrogant men hell!!
Another great book by Mary Wine one of my auto buy authors
give these Alpha arrogant men hell!!
Another great book by Mary Wine one of my auto buy authors
September 7, 2019
3.5 stars.
This took a while to get into. I almost stopped at chapter two, because the book does one of my least favorite things and switches POV to the villain. I have to admit, though, it did up the suspense. As for the main characters, I liked Isabel and Ramon well enough. Isabel was a strong character in that she did what she felt was best to take care of her people as well as in her everyday life, but she was a bit naive. Still, I think she was my favorite character. Ramon was very honorable and a good knight, but a bit too stuffy at times. It was almost too late by the time he admitted his feelings.
I did like the medieval setting, though. This book took place during the Crusades, and I found reading a romance during these times to be fascinating. The writing was a bit repetitive. I noticed the author has Isabel gasping a lot in shock, horror, delight,, and ramon grunts a lot. Also, there were a few typos I noticed. Overall, though, this gave me my medieval romance fix.
This took a while to get into. I almost stopped at chapter two, because the book does one of my least favorite things and switches POV to the villain. I have to admit, though, it did up the suspense. As for the main characters, I liked Isabel and Ramon well enough. Isabel was a strong character in that she did what she felt was best to take care of her people as well as in her everyday life, but she was a bit naive. Still, I think she was my favorite character. Ramon was very honorable and a good knight, but a bit too stuffy at times. It was almost too late by the time he admitted his feelings.
I did like the medieval setting, though. This book took place during the Crusades, and I found reading a romance during these times to be fascinating. The writing was a bit repetitive. I noticed the author has Isabel gasping a lot in shock, horror, delight,, and ramon grunts a lot. Also, there were a few typos I noticed. Overall, though, this gave me my medieval romance fix.
August 14, 2021
Just not my flagon of mead, but probably a good read for those who like erotic historical fiction.
June 10, 2015
This book is a welcome departure from the pampered lords and ladies of Regency England.
Set in the time of the Crusades; when a devout and battle hungry Richard the Lionheart occupied the throne. A Sword For His Lady is the story of a faithful knight, who meets his match in the form of a brilliant and beautiful widow.
If you think that things end there however, you are sadly mistaken.
That, dear friends, is where the adventure and the mayhem begins for these two.
And now...on to the review!
The first half of this book concerns itself mainly with our knight, one Roman de Segrave. Having just returned with the king from the front lines of battle against Muslim forces; Roman finds himself given the title of Baron, land, and and advised to wed the young widow on the neighboring estate. That he might join the two and better protect the valuable property which sits so close to the Welsh border.
Oh the plotting minds of men!
But...fear not! Lady Isabel of Camoys is more than capable of dealing with a few knights!
Or is she?
The archaic attitudes of the menfolk in this read can be rather off-putting, considering the fact that Isabel is doing quite well without their interference. She has the land, is making money, and even has her own stone quarry. In truth, it is Roman, who is doing all he can to get her to see the merit of his suit.
Admittedly, Roman faced quite the challenge with this lady. She held out against his charms in fact, that I started to get worried!
There was...of course, some saving of the damsel in distress to be done. She is housing a garrison of knights, after all!
The twist here being the person from whom our dear lady needed saving. This is the twist that put this book on the road to 5 stars.
It also served at the catalyst for big romantic changes between Isabel and Roman.
If you are looking for a romance where men are men and women rule all...THIS IS IT!
This book has it all!
Knights In Shining Armor
Plots
Romance
Naked Men
Kidnapping
Fights In Defense of Honor
Baddie...Baddies
Swoon-worthy Happily Ever After
Set in the time of the Crusades; when a devout and battle hungry Richard the Lionheart occupied the throne. A Sword For His Lady is the story of a faithful knight, who meets his match in the form of a brilliant and beautiful widow.
If you think that things end there however, you are sadly mistaken.
That, dear friends, is where the adventure and the mayhem begins for these two.
And now...on to the review!
The first half of this book concerns itself mainly with our knight, one Roman de Segrave. Having just returned with the king from the front lines of battle against Muslim forces; Roman finds himself given the title of Baron, land, and and advised to wed the young widow on the neighboring estate. That he might join the two and better protect the valuable property which sits so close to the Welsh border.
Oh the plotting minds of men!
But...fear not! Lady Isabel of Camoys is more than capable of dealing with a few knights!
Or is she?
The archaic attitudes of the menfolk in this read can be rather off-putting, considering the fact that Isabel is doing quite well without their interference. She has the land, is making money, and even has her own stone quarry. In truth, it is Roman, who is doing all he can to get her to see the merit of his suit.
Admittedly, Roman faced quite the challenge with this lady. She held out against his charms in fact, that I started to get worried!
There was...of course, some saving of the damsel in distress to be done. She is housing a garrison of knights, after all!
The twist here being the person from whom our dear lady needed saving. This is the twist that put this book on the road to 5 stars.
It also served at the catalyst for big romantic changes between Isabel and Roman.
If you are looking for a romance where men are men and women rule all...THIS IS IT!
This book has it all!
Knights In Shining Armor
Plots
Romance
Naked Men
Kidnapping
Fights In Defense of Honor
Baddie...Baddies
Swoon-worthy Happily Ever After
July 10, 2015
...of knights and ladies, love and duty
Ramon de Segrave newly appointed Baron by King Richard is sent by his king to the marshes bordering Wales. He is to marry the widowed Isabel of Camoys, the Lady of Thistle Keep.
Isobel is anything but gracious about the plans others have for her. Strong wills clash igniting the fires that lie below the calm surface of the Lady of the Keep and her robust Knight.
Having been given in marriage before against her will Isabel is reluctant to give up her independence. Richard has taken her garrison to the Holy Lands. Now she is defenceless, except for Ramon. Then there's her husband's dastardly brother Jaques Raeburn who wants the family lands back, at any cost. King Richard plays a part here. Richard's need for monies for his crusades has allowed Jacques to be elevated to a baron. (Ramon reflects somewhat sourly on the fact that he earned his baron status alongside Richard in war whilst Jacques bought his.)
Whilst Isobel may be able to protect her lands and people by agreeing to Ramon's terms, can she protect her heart? Certainly Isobel is faced with her own sensuality, something that has lain hidden until now.
Mary Wine gives us a fascinating look into practices in these Medieval times and the role of women, particularly of the nobility. I was fascinated by Isobel's methods of collecting and protecting her geese and their feathers, essential for the arrow shafts needed by Richard, the bathing customs of the day and other little tidbits about daily life at the keep.
I was also struck by the inner battle of Jacques' servant sent to spy, Donald. He has sworn before a God to carry out his Lord's orders but what to do when they conflict with his conscience? Donald's struggle highlights the strict religious aspects of feality and medieval practices.
Ramon and Isobel's fate may be dictated to by a King but ultimately they decide upon it by themselves. The choice of the how's is up to them, with a little help from circumstances and duty.
A NetGalley ARC
Ramon de Segrave newly appointed Baron by King Richard is sent by his king to the marshes bordering Wales. He is to marry the widowed Isabel of Camoys, the Lady of Thistle Keep.
Isobel is anything but gracious about the plans others have for her. Strong wills clash igniting the fires that lie below the calm surface of the Lady of the Keep and her robust Knight.
Having been given in marriage before against her will Isabel is reluctant to give up her independence. Richard has taken her garrison to the Holy Lands. Now she is defenceless, except for Ramon. Then there's her husband's dastardly brother Jaques Raeburn who wants the family lands back, at any cost. King Richard plays a part here. Richard's need for monies for his crusades has allowed Jacques to be elevated to a baron. (Ramon reflects somewhat sourly on the fact that he earned his baron status alongside Richard in war whilst Jacques bought his.)
Whilst Isobel may be able to protect her lands and people by agreeing to Ramon's terms, can she protect her heart? Certainly Isobel is faced with her own sensuality, something that has lain hidden until now.
Mary Wine gives us a fascinating look into practices in these Medieval times and the role of women, particularly of the nobility. I was fascinated by Isobel's methods of collecting and protecting her geese and their feathers, essential for the arrow shafts needed by Richard, the bathing customs of the day and other little tidbits about daily life at the keep.
I was also struck by the inner battle of Jacques' servant sent to spy, Donald. He has sworn before a God to carry out his Lord's orders but what to do when they conflict with his conscience? Donald's struggle highlights the strict religious aspects of feality and medieval practices.
Ramon and Isobel's fate may be dictated to by a King but ultimately they decide upon it by themselves. The choice of the how's is up to them, with a little help from circumstances and duty.
A NetGalley ARC
December 10, 2016
This exciting historical adult romance takes place during the Crusades. Richard the Lionheart is leaving and appoints a knight and baron Ramon to secure a castle called Thistle Keep on the Welsh Marches. The Welsh are likely to rise up and attack with the King away, while other envious barons might vie for land. Better the King decide who is to be trusted.
A young widow Isabel however runs Thistle Keep and she is not inclined to sway to a new knight's orders. Her family has prospered on the marshy land by keeping geese and providing their quills for arrow fletching as tribute to the King. The lady herself hunts with a hawk to keep rats away from the geese nests. And now this knight suggests that he should wed her to protect her. Honestly!
This is good fun and there is plenty of fine detail. I like that another envious baron is also set upon wedding the lady solely in order to seize her lands, and if the barons fight it out openly, a council of barons will make judgement against them in the King's stead. However the second man Jacques is somewhat overdone as an antagonist. But times were tough and women had few or no rights.
I would like this better if it wasn't that without all the quarrelling and admiration between Isabel and Ramon, which turns to lovemaking and admiration, the book would be half the length. Yes it does feel like padding. But if you're after anticipation and participation in bedroom antics, this romance book will suit you well.
A young widow Isabel however runs Thistle Keep and she is not inclined to sway to a new knight's orders. Her family has prospered on the marshy land by keeping geese and providing their quills for arrow fletching as tribute to the King. The lady herself hunts with a hawk to keep rats away from the geese nests. And now this knight suggests that he should wed her to protect her. Honestly!
This is good fun and there is plenty of fine detail. I like that another envious baron is also set upon wedding the lady solely in order to seize her lands, and if the barons fight it out openly, a council of barons will make judgement against them in the King's stead. However the second man Jacques is somewhat overdone as an antagonist. But times were tough and women had few or no rights.
I would like this better if it wasn't that without all the quarrelling and admiration between Isabel and Ramon, which turns to lovemaking and admiration, the book would be half the length. Yes it does feel like padding. But if you're after anticipation and participation in bedroom antics, this romance book will suit you well.
December 12, 2015
I so love Mary Wine and her books!! They are the best. Great Love scenes, real male hero, strong heroine. I had to read this (as with all her books) in one sitting!!! Ramon de Segrave is appointed to the Council of Barons. With this he has been giving some land that adjoins our heroine's place. It is suggested that he marry her in order to help keep her lands safe and for him to build up his new lands. The hero has been married before and had a very bad experience from this. So while heading to his new lands he is in the mind set to pass on the marriage. Our heroine, Isabel of Camoys is running the house and lands that her husband death left her with. Isabel had a really bad marriage to and does not wish to marry again. Once Ramon sees Isabel his feeling have changed...he wants her and this marriage. Isabel is not changing her mind at all is her mind set! So starts this great story! I hope you enjoy it too!!
June 6, 2018
Got about 3 chapters in and couldn’t force myself to read anymore.
The male protagonist didn’t want to get married until he sees her then BAM! “I am SOOO intrigued by her we MUST get married.”
And the female protagonist has NO interest in getting married either and HATES when he overrides everything she says and does. And despite straight up telling him this every single time he does it the moment he does ... BAM! “Oh my God, he’s SOOO hot! I’m SOOO attracted to him!”
BLAH!!!!!🤮
The male protagonist didn’t want to get married until he sees her then BAM! “I am SOOO intrigued by her we MUST get married.”
And the female protagonist has NO interest in getting married either and HATES when he overrides everything she says and does. And despite straight up telling him this every single time he does it the moment he does ... BAM! “Oh my God, he’s SOOO hot! I’m SOOO attracted to him!”
BLAH!!!!!🤮
June 8, 2015
I took a chance reading something different from what I favor and was not disappointed, thnx Mary Wine. I'm hooked onto this series..definitely looking forward to the second book :)
July 9, 2016
3.5/5
Quick, addictive and romantic! This was my first medieval romance and it was a hit!
November 7, 2016
A medieval historical romance with a good storyline and the right amount of spice.
March 19, 2021
Why I read this book: I was scrolling through my library's books and saw a ton of books containing the word "Highlander". I called S over and we marvelled at the ingenuity of the titles. I then foolishly agreed to S's suggestion that I read one of them - and she picked. She had no excuse for picking the sole book without "Highlander".
This contains a few dubious consent situations - for example, Ramon suggests that Isabel bathe him because she's obliged to as lady of the manor. Isabel does. Ramon repeatedly violates Isabel's boundaries (sleeping in her bed, for example). I wasn't a fan of that.
However, their attraction to each other triumphs. Isabel is also threatened by Jacques (who wants her land) and that provides a push for her to see Ramon as a plausible alternative. On Ramon's part, he helps Isabel
I wasn't that keen because of all the dub-con involved. 1/5 stars
This contains a few dubious consent situations - for example, Ramon suggests that Isabel bathe him because she's obliged to as lady of the manor. Isabel does. Ramon repeatedly violates Isabel's boundaries (sleeping in her bed, for example). I wasn't a fan of that.
However, their attraction to each other triumphs. Isabel is also threatened by Jacques (who wants her land) and that provides a push for her to see Ramon as a plausible alternative. On Ramon's part, he helps Isabel
I wasn't that keen because of all the dub-con involved. 1/5 stars
August 30, 2017
My first time reading this author. She really brought the medieval keep to life describing the little details of a life in such harsh surroundings.
And how powerless a woman was in those times...while I understood Isabel's wish to enjoy being courted by Ramon, it led to Jacques attacking the keep trying to abduct her AGAIN, resulting in loss of lives. It was terribly frustrating to see her stringing Ramon along holding out...after the first abduction she should have woken up to the idea that Ramon was nothing like the cruel and nasty man her ex husband was; Jacques provided a nice evil contrast and yet she still held out.
Kudos to Ramon for giving in to Isabel in so many ways except her safety. He's truly an honourable chivalric knight!
I really long for those good old medieval romances from Julie Garwood and Elizabeth Lowell.
And how powerless a woman was in those times...while I understood Isabel's wish to enjoy being courted by Ramon, it led to Jacques attacking the keep trying to abduct her AGAIN, resulting in loss of lives. It was terribly frustrating to see her stringing Ramon along holding out...after the first abduction she should have woken up to the idea that Ramon was nothing like the cruel and nasty man her ex husband was; Jacques provided a nice evil contrast and yet she still held out.
Kudos to Ramon for giving in to Isabel in so many ways except her safety. He's truly an honourable chivalric knight!
I really long for those good old medieval romances from Julie Garwood and Elizabeth Lowell.
May 22, 2017
A medieval romance that isn't perfect, but didn't send me flying into a feminist rage (I did groan at some points, though). In large part, the story was both sweet and had enough sexual tension to make the romance between the main characters believable. Their flaws helped as well.
Given that I roll my eyes every time I hear the phrase "romance novel," it's heartening to know that my quest for something decent isn't always a failure.
This isn't Pulitzer-prize-winning literature, but it serves its frivolous, romantic purpose. Bonus that Elizabeth Wiley did a great job narrating the audiobook.
Given that I roll my eyes every time I hear the phrase "romance novel," it's heartening to know that my quest for something decent isn't always a failure.
This isn't Pulitzer-prize-winning literature, but it serves its frivolous, romantic purpose. Bonus that Elizabeth Wiley did a great job narrating the audiobook.
April 23, 2020
This book was a lot better than I thought. I was expecting the women to be treated like trash considering the time period and even though there were a couple times throughout this book were I did felt that she was being treated like that. But mostly I was happy to see her being treated like his equal. I went into this book not having read a single historical romance book, I don't know if I will continue to read historical romance, especially if all of the historical romances are similar to this, but we shall see.
July 16, 2015
Originally published at Reading Reality
This is a book that gave me very, very, downright extremely, mixed feelings.
A Sword for His Lady is a medieval romance, taking place during the Crusades, although the story is set in England.
One of the good things about this story is that it feels pretty realistic about the position of women in society at that point in time.
Isabel of Camoys is expected to keep her estate running successfully after the death of her much despised husband. It is up to her to make sure that her lands produce enough to provide her share of taxes to the King (the absent Richard the Lionheart) and keep her tenants and dependents fed and housed.
And she’s supposed to immediately become subservient the moment that a man offers to marry her, because female independence was considered unwomanly. She’s not supposed to appear capable, even when she is.
She’s not supposed to want to keep her independence, whether her new husband is kind and considerate (and good in bed) or whether he is every bit as nasty a bastard (not literally, of course) as her late, unlamented lord.
Newly appointed Baron Ramon de Segrave is ordered to marry Isabel and fortify her lands. Thistle Keep is on the much contended Welsh border, and Richard needs a man there he can trust
Ramon’s wishes are not considered either, but he gains Isabel’s lands and title, and she becomes property. While it is not surprising that she wants to keep her independence, repeated kidnappings and guerrilla warfare fomented by her vile ex-brother-in-law make it clear to Isabel and everyone around her that it is not realistic in that time and place for her to remain independent.
She has to marry Ramon whether she likes it or not. Fortunately for her, Ramon is a much kinder and more intelligent man than her first husband. Also much more entertaining between the sheets. At least Ramon has grasped the concept that the marriage bed is a lot warmer if both parties are pleased during the proceedings.
In spite of a very rough start to their relationship, Ramon and Isabel do find a way to make a partnership of their marriage, and to finally admit that they love each other. Although neither of them planned on ever getting married, they eventually realize that their king has done them an excellent turn by forcing them together, even if he had no idea of the eventual outcome.
Escape Rating B: I did enjoy this by the end, but I highly recommend that you not read this book right after reading something with a significant feminist bent. While Isabel’s situation seems realistic for her time, it can be difficult to read the way that she is pretty much forced to give up her independence and expected to like it.
Reading this book definitely made me think. There is a trend in historical romance to make the heroine anachronistically independent in some way. While it makes her easier to identify with for 21st century readers, it isn’t right. On that other hand, it doesn’t lead to as much teeth-gritting.
This is a completely different thing from the argument about women’s independence, or women as soldiers, or any variation thereof, in medieval-type fantasy. Just because an author has used a medieval-type setting for their fantasy does not mean that they have to adopt all of that society’s terrible attitudes about women. After all, it is a fantasy-setting, the author can change the parameters to suit themselves as long as it remains internally consistent.
Dismounting soapbox now.
Isabel is living in a society where every person on every side is either telling her to “lie back and enjoy it” or reminding her that she is only chattel, and that she needs to find a man to command her armies and defend her lands, because she doesn’t have that capacity and her society doesn’t allow for her to. It’s often infuriating but it feels true.
I do wish, however, that Ramon’s magic cock hadn’t done quite so much of the convincing. He is far and away her best option, and it is logical that they join forces. Not just because he’s a nice (and handsome) man and will protect her, but also because he believes in his knightly vows and will protect and nurture her lands and her people.
As the Lady of Thistle Keep, she has to do what is best for her people, and Ramon is it, whatever Isabel’s personal opinion might have been.
Ramon’s opposition is evil slime, and he is made out to be evil slime at every turn. That he is also her ex-brother-in-law and plans to marry Isabel by rape and murder Ramon if necessary (and murder Isabel later once the land is secure) is just slimy icing on an already disgusting cake. He had no redeeming virtues whatsoever – he was a coward into the very bad bargain.
That Isabel hesitated to marry Ramon even a nanosecond after Sir Evil appeared was not intelligent or well-done on her part. If she was smart enough to keep her estate going so successfully alone, she should also have been smart enough to realize that the jig was up, whether she liked it or not.
In the end, love does conquer all, even the lady who never believed that she could fall under its spell.
This is a book that gave me very, very, downright extremely, mixed feelings.
A Sword for His Lady is a medieval romance, taking place during the Crusades, although the story is set in England.
One of the good things about this story is that it feels pretty realistic about the position of women in society at that point in time.
Isabel of Camoys is expected to keep her estate running successfully after the death of her much despised husband. It is up to her to make sure that her lands produce enough to provide her share of taxes to the King (the absent Richard the Lionheart) and keep her tenants and dependents fed and housed.
And she’s supposed to immediately become subservient the moment that a man offers to marry her, because female independence was considered unwomanly. She’s not supposed to appear capable, even when she is.
She’s not supposed to want to keep her independence, whether her new husband is kind and considerate (and good in bed) or whether he is every bit as nasty a bastard (not literally, of course) as her late, unlamented lord.
Newly appointed Baron Ramon de Segrave is ordered to marry Isabel and fortify her lands. Thistle Keep is on the much contended Welsh border, and Richard needs a man there he can trust
Ramon’s wishes are not considered either, but he gains Isabel’s lands and title, and she becomes property. While it is not surprising that she wants to keep her independence, repeated kidnappings and guerrilla warfare fomented by her vile ex-brother-in-law make it clear to Isabel and everyone around her that it is not realistic in that time and place for her to remain independent.
She has to marry Ramon whether she likes it or not. Fortunately for her, Ramon is a much kinder and more intelligent man than her first husband. Also much more entertaining between the sheets. At least Ramon has grasped the concept that the marriage bed is a lot warmer if both parties are pleased during the proceedings.
In spite of a very rough start to their relationship, Ramon and Isabel do find a way to make a partnership of their marriage, and to finally admit that they love each other. Although neither of them planned on ever getting married, they eventually realize that their king has done them an excellent turn by forcing them together, even if he had no idea of the eventual outcome.
Escape Rating B: I did enjoy this by the end, but I highly recommend that you not read this book right after reading something with a significant feminist bent. While Isabel’s situation seems realistic for her time, it can be difficult to read the way that she is pretty much forced to give up her independence and expected to like it.
Reading this book definitely made me think. There is a trend in historical romance to make the heroine anachronistically independent in some way. While it makes her easier to identify with for 21st century readers, it isn’t right. On that other hand, it doesn’t lead to as much teeth-gritting.
This is a completely different thing from the argument about women’s independence, or women as soldiers, or any variation thereof, in medieval-type fantasy. Just because an author has used a medieval-type setting for their fantasy does not mean that they have to adopt all of that society’s terrible attitudes about women. After all, it is a fantasy-setting, the author can change the parameters to suit themselves as long as it remains internally consistent.
Dismounting soapbox now.
Isabel is living in a society where every person on every side is either telling her to “lie back and enjoy it” or reminding her that she is only chattel, and that she needs to find a man to command her armies and defend her lands, because she doesn’t have that capacity and her society doesn’t allow for her to. It’s often infuriating but it feels true.
I do wish, however, that Ramon’s magic cock hadn’t done quite so much of the convincing. He is far and away her best option, and it is logical that they join forces. Not just because he’s a nice (and handsome) man and will protect her, but also because he believes in his knightly vows and will protect and nurture her lands and her people.
As the Lady of Thistle Keep, she has to do what is best for her people, and Ramon is it, whatever Isabel’s personal opinion might have been.
Ramon’s opposition is evil slime, and he is made out to be evil slime at every turn. That he is also her ex-brother-in-law and plans to marry Isabel by rape and murder Ramon if necessary (and murder Isabel later once the land is secure) is just slimy icing on an already disgusting cake. He had no redeeming virtues whatsoever – he was a coward into the very bad bargain.
That Isabel hesitated to marry Ramon even a nanosecond after Sir Evil appeared was not intelligent or well-done on her part. If she was smart enough to keep her estate going so successfully alone, she should also have been smart enough to realize that the jig was up, whether she liked it or not.
In the end, love does conquer all, even the lady who never believed that she could fall under its spell.
March 14, 2018
So terrible. Wanted it to be good, intrigued by historical setting time period. Book was nonstop abuse and terribleness. Bones of story could have been so much more. Made me so mad I had to stop reading and could not finish.
January 9, 2021
Interesting story that picked up and got better as the story went on. The main characters were both just the right amount of stubborn and good people that took care of their own so it was a sweet and likable story.
January 24, 2024
3.5 stars. Easy to read and follow, good writing. Liked the characters however the FMC felt frustratingly naive at times. Too insta-lust for my taste. Enjoyable storyline. Some plotlines felt rushed/was resolved too fast.
March 16, 2018
Good book i enjoyed it
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