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Knights of Redemption #1
A Bit of Heaven on Earth
When Gavin of Ashgrove and his closest friend are captured in a fierce battle during the Hundred Years’ War, their captors demand a hefty ransom from their fathers for their return. Robert is quickly set free, but Gavin’s father refuses to pay for his son’s release, leaving him to rot in a squalid French prison. Aided by a sympathetic priest, he escapes and returns home to England, only to find he has been proclaimed a bastard and disinherited.
With nowhere to turn Gavin journeys to Kentwood, where he fostered as a boy, hoping Lord Aldred will take him on as a knight in his guard. The old warrior is close to death, but he soon realizes Gavin is his son. Aldred plots to have Gavin inherit Kentwood and marry his much younger wife, Elizabeth, a famed and opinionated beauty who remains a virgin after a decade of marriage.
Will the king recognize Lord Aldred’s first request of a marriage between Elizabeth and Robert, uniting Robert’s estate with Kentwood—or will the temperamental Edward reward Aldred’s years of service and honor a dying man’s final request?
With nowhere to turn Gavin journeys to Kentwood, where he fostered as a boy, hoping Lord Aldred will take him on as a knight in his guard. The old warrior is close to death, but he soon realizes Gavin is his son. Aldred plots to have Gavin inherit Kentwood and marry his much younger wife, Elizabeth, a famed and opinionated beauty who remains a virgin after a decade of marriage.
Will the king recognize Lord Aldred’s first request of a marriage between Elizabeth and Robert, uniting Robert’s estate with Kentwood—or will the temperamental Edward reward Aldred’s years of service and honor a dying man’s final request?
207 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 2, 2014
457 people are currently reading
437 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Linwood
12 books53 followersPen name for author Alexa Aston
As a child, Lauren Linwood gathered her neighborhood friends together and made up stories for them to act out, her first venture into creating memorable characters. Following her passion for history and love of learning, she became a teacher who began writing on the side to maintain her sanity in a sea of teenage hormones.
Lauren’s historical novels focus on two of her favorite eras—medieval times and the American Old West. History is the backdrop that places her characters in extraordinary circumstances, where their intense desire and yearning for one another grows into the treasured gift of love. She also writes romantic suspense, where modern heroes and heroines unite to defeat a strong antagonist and discover a deep, abiding love during their journey.
Lauren, a native Texan, lives in a Dallas suburb with her family. An avid reader, moviegoer, and sports fan, she manages stress by alternating yoga with five mile walks. She is thinking about starting a support group for House Hunters addicts—as soon as she finishes her next piece of dark chocolate.
As a child, Lauren Linwood gathered her neighborhood friends together and made up stories for them to act out, her first venture into creating memorable characters. Following her passion for history and love of learning, she became a teacher who began writing on the side to maintain her sanity in a sea of teenage hormones.
Lauren’s historical novels focus on two of her favorite eras—medieval times and the American Old West. History is the backdrop that places her characters in extraordinary circumstances, where their intense desire and yearning for one another grows into the treasured gift of love. She also writes romantic suspense, where modern heroes and heroines unite to defeat a strong antagonist and discover a deep, abiding love during their journey.
Lauren, a native Texan, lives in a Dallas suburb with her family. An avid reader, moviegoer, and sports fan, she manages stress by alternating yoga with five mile walks. She is thinking about starting a support group for House Hunters addicts—as soon as she finishes her next piece of dark chocolate.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
June 16, 2017
Lady Elizabeth is the wife of Lord Alfred of Kentwood. When she becomes a widow, Elizabeth becomes a political pawn for King Edward. She wants to be Lady of Kentwood, to continue to care and protect her people.
Lord Gavin has spent two years in a French prison. Upon his escape, Gavin finds out he is a bastard with limited prospects. He decides to ride to Lord Alfred's to seek counsel and to serve as one of Alfred's guards.
After Lady Elizabeth becomes a widow, her love for Gavin grows, and his for her. Elizabeth tells Gavin about the letter Lord Alfred sent to King Edward. In the letter he asked the King to grant his wish for Elizabeth to marry Lord Robert. Even though it breaks Gavin's heart, he knows it's for the best. Elizabeth will have none other than Gavin. Will King Edward marry Elizabeth to Lord Robert? Is there a possibility of Gavin and Elizabeth being together?
I found this novel entertaining and captivating. It held my attention from the first page to the last. The main characters are well drawn. The secondary characters are intriguing and personable as the main characters. The plot is simple but keeps the reader turning the pages. All the subplots are resolved. This is the first novel I've read by Lauren Linwood. It will not be my last.
Lord Gavin has spent two years in a French prison. Upon his escape, Gavin finds out he is a bastard with limited prospects. He decides to ride to Lord Alfred's to seek counsel and to serve as one of Alfred's guards.
After Lady Elizabeth becomes a widow, her love for Gavin grows, and his for her. Elizabeth tells Gavin about the letter Lord Alfred sent to King Edward. In the letter he asked the King to grant his wish for Elizabeth to marry Lord Robert. Even though it breaks Gavin's heart, he knows it's for the best. Elizabeth will have none other than Gavin. Will King Edward marry Elizabeth to Lord Robert? Is there a possibility of Gavin and Elizabeth being together?
I found this novel entertaining and captivating. It held my attention from the first page to the last. The main characters are well drawn. The secondary characters are intriguing and personable as the main characters. The plot is simple but keeps the reader turning the pages. All the subplots are resolved. This is the first novel I've read by Lauren Linwood. It will not be my last.
April 10, 2022
I loved this story! Alexa Aston always knows how to pull at my heartstrings and make me fall head over heels with new book boyfriends 😍 Sir Gavin is the epitome of a medieval knight with his chivalry and honor shining through in everything he does. Despite all her refusals and plotting, Elizabeth Bramwell was married off at her father’s wish. while initially she is furious and resigned to her fate, she develops a love for her husband and they have ten years together. When happenstances bring Gavin & Elizabeth together, the attraction is instant & love follows quickly. Do Gavin & Elizabeth have a chance at happiness…together? The situation looks bleak at times but never fear love always finds a way!
5 Stars ⭐️ | 5 Flames 🔥
📚I received a review copy of this book and chose to leave a review.📚
5 Stars ⭐️ | 5 Flames 🔥
📚I received a review copy of this book and chose to leave a review.📚
January 24, 2022
A Bit of Heaven on Earth, by Lauren Linwood ( Alexa Aston). I can only say this. Read the book! I know that you will love this fated hearts, meant to be love story. Ughhh!
The writer had me and my emotions going up and then down. I found myself yelling, nooooooo, every time Robert appeared in the book. That Robert is a smooth talker. As always I have high praise for this author. The writer once again displayed her wonderful talent of writing a lovely romantic story as a book, but once you begin to read it, you feel as though you are watching the most magnificent movie played out in your mine.
The story is that good in my opinion. The plot was so captivating with its twist and turns. Oh! And I can’t forget the secrets among Lord Alder, Gavin, King Edward Robert and Elizabeth. So many secrets that holds the power of how this story will end.
I so love a good book, and this book took me to a level that I so didn’t want to come down from. The writer did a wonderful job with the narrative and the dialogue. Both worked well together, while keeping the love story moving towards those shocking moments in the story. Let me tell you this, as I read the many beautiful, tender hearted moments when Gavin and Elizabeth are embracing each other, their love reminded me of Romeo and Juliet. I feared that Elizabeth and Gavin’s story would turn out that way.
I prayed that the story would not go down that path. I had to hang on and read this story to the end, because I had to know what King Edward said. The characters were entertaining and fun to read. The book is a good page turner for you the reader who loves happily ever after stories. Until next time my fellow readers… read on!
The writer had me and my emotions going up and then down. I found myself yelling, nooooooo, every time Robert appeared in the book. That Robert is a smooth talker. As always I have high praise for this author. The writer once again displayed her wonderful talent of writing a lovely romantic story as a book, but once you begin to read it, you feel as though you are watching the most magnificent movie played out in your mine.
The story is that good in my opinion. The plot was so captivating with its twist and turns. Oh! And I can’t forget the secrets among Lord Alder, Gavin, King Edward Robert and Elizabeth. So many secrets that holds the power of how this story will end.
I so love a good book, and this book took me to a level that I so didn’t want to come down from. The writer did a wonderful job with the narrative and the dialogue. Both worked well together, while keeping the love story moving towards those shocking moments in the story. Let me tell you this, as I read the many beautiful, tender hearted moments when Gavin and Elizabeth are embracing each other, their love reminded me of Romeo and Juliet. I feared that Elizabeth and Gavin’s story would turn out that way.
I prayed that the story would not go down that path. I had to hang on and read this story to the end, because I had to know what King Edward said. The characters were entertaining and fun to read. The book is a good page turner for you the reader who loves happily ever after stories. Until next time my fellow readers… read on!
January 21, 2022
England 1350's
An arranged marriage, a dying confession and a knight held captive during a war, with his father refusing to send money to bring about his release. Well that was just the first few chapters! An adventure that begins from page one!
He had no home to go to and went to spend time with the man who had fostered him as a young boy. What he found was so much more!
She had married the older man, but ended up being more of a companion. Then he came to visit. A knight.. and a plan began.
As always Alexa writes a story to remember!!
An arranged marriage, a dying confession and a knight held captive during a war, with his father refusing to send money to bring about his release. Well that was just the first few chapters! An adventure that begins from page one!
He had no home to go to and went to spend time with the man who had fostered him as a young boy. What he found was so much more!
She had married the older man, but ended up being more of a companion. Then he came to visit. A knight.. and a plan began.
As always Alexa writes a story to remember!!
June 9, 2017
Great book and the characters very believable. Storyline true to the times. A young woman coming into her own and a gallent loyal knight who sees hardship and tragedy. Twists and turns that all lead to love and happiness. What could be better!
August 11, 2016
A good read but not fabulous.
April 23, 2015
Vikki’s Musings
I received an e-copy of A Bit of Heaven on Earth from the author for an honest review. I have previously read books by Lauren Linwood and thoroughly enjoyed them. I looked forward to reading this one with great anticipation. I always enjoy a good medieval novel, and I was not disappointed. This is an emotional read and pulled me in from the prologue and kept me entertained until the end.
The story begins in 1347. Elizabeth of Aldwyn is anything but a typical young girl in medieval times. She rides hard, wears breeches under her kirtle and loves to hunt. Her father is beyond impatient with her, since she runs off any eligible suitor he brings to the keep. Taking matters into his own hands, he betroths her to a much older man, one he is sure will be able to tame her.
This is one betrothal she is unable to extricate herself from and is soon married to Aldred of Kentwood, a legend throughout England for his warrior’s skills and cunning.
On her wedding night, she is greatly relieved to find out that Aldred is impotent. After he offers to have the marriage annulled, Elizabeth tells him that she does not mind that he is unable to consummate their marriage, and that she would not want him humiliated in such a way. Of course he protests until she convinces him he would be doing her a favor, as long as he does not mean to break her spirit. He assures her he likes her spirited ways and promises to teach her all that she wants to learn.
Gavin of Ashgrove has been captured in battle and a ransom has been sent to his father, but he refuses to pay. Gavin languishes in prison for two years until a priest helps him escape. When he arrives at Ashgrove, he finds his beloved mother dead, his father remarried, is told he is a bastard and has been disowned. Gavin turns to the man who fostered him, Lord Aldred.
When Gavin arrives at Kentwood, Aldred welcomes him with open arms and after hearing his tale, appoints him Captain of the guard. Aldred recognizes Gavin as his son from the brief affair he had with his mother, but does not tell him. Aldred sends a letter to the king asking that he allow him to marry Elizabeth when he dies.
This is the set up for the story. Of course, Elizabeth and Gavin are attracted to each other, but neither wants to hurt Lord Aldred and they fight temptation. A troupe quite predictable, but well told for the most part. They do share a brief, highly sensual kiss before Aldred dies, but both vow to never repeat it. I enjoyed the romance between Elizabeth and Gavin a great deal, even though at first I was cautious. I do not like stories with adultery. Thank goodness, Ms. Linwood does not take the romance there.
There are several great plot twists that make this tale an interesting read. A Bit of Heaven on Earth has unrequited love, a love triangle and even a bit of danger. The story moves along quickly and is engaging. There is depth in the characters, and I liked both of them very much. I particularly liked Gavin and ached for the torment and anguish he felt when he was imprisoned and when he finds out he is a bastard.
While the author does not have the couple engaged in amorous situations, other than the kiss, prior to Aldred’s death, the sexual tension is excellent. The chemistry between the hero and heroine is incredible, and that is very hard to do since she did not have them become physically intimate until well into the story.
If you enjoy a well-written story filled with poignant scenes of deep emotion, then you will love A Bit of Heaven on Earth. I look forward to reading other books by this incredibly talented author. Happy reading!
I received an e-copy of A Bit of Heaven on Earth from the author for an honest review. I have previously read books by Lauren Linwood and thoroughly enjoyed them. I looked forward to reading this one with great anticipation. I always enjoy a good medieval novel, and I was not disappointed. This is an emotional read and pulled me in from the prologue and kept me entertained until the end.
The story begins in 1347. Elizabeth of Aldwyn is anything but a typical young girl in medieval times. She rides hard, wears breeches under her kirtle and loves to hunt. Her father is beyond impatient with her, since she runs off any eligible suitor he brings to the keep. Taking matters into his own hands, he betroths her to a much older man, one he is sure will be able to tame her.
This is one betrothal she is unable to extricate herself from and is soon married to Aldred of Kentwood, a legend throughout England for his warrior’s skills and cunning.
On her wedding night, she is greatly relieved to find out that Aldred is impotent. After he offers to have the marriage annulled, Elizabeth tells him that she does not mind that he is unable to consummate their marriage, and that she would not want him humiliated in such a way. Of course he protests until she convinces him he would be doing her a favor, as long as he does not mean to break her spirit. He assures her he likes her spirited ways and promises to teach her all that she wants to learn.
Gavin of Ashgrove has been captured in battle and a ransom has been sent to his father, but he refuses to pay. Gavin languishes in prison for two years until a priest helps him escape. When he arrives at Ashgrove, he finds his beloved mother dead, his father remarried, is told he is a bastard and has been disowned. Gavin turns to the man who fostered him, Lord Aldred.
When Gavin arrives at Kentwood, Aldred welcomes him with open arms and after hearing his tale, appoints him Captain of the guard. Aldred recognizes Gavin as his son from the brief affair he had with his mother, but does not tell him. Aldred sends a letter to the king asking that he allow him to marry Elizabeth when he dies.
This is the set up for the story. Of course, Elizabeth and Gavin are attracted to each other, but neither wants to hurt Lord Aldred and they fight temptation. A troupe quite predictable, but well told for the most part. They do share a brief, highly sensual kiss before Aldred dies, but both vow to never repeat it. I enjoyed the romance between Elizabeth and Gavin a great deal, even though at first I was cautious. I do not like stories with adultery. Thank goodness, Ms. Linwood does not take the romance there.
There are several great plot twists that make this tale an interesting read. A Bit of Heaven on Earth has unrequited love, a love triangle and even a bit of danger. The story moves along quickly and is engaging. There is depth in the characters, and I liked both of them very much. I particularly liked Gavin and ached for the torment and anguish he felt when he was imprisoned and when he finds out he is a bastard.
While the author does not have the couple engaged in amorous situations, other than the kiss, prior to Aldred’s death, the sexual tension is excellent. The chemistry between the hero and heroine is incredible, and that is very hard to do since she did not have them become physically intimate until well into the story.
If you enjoy a well-written story filled with poignant scenes of deep emotion, then you will love A Bit of Heaven on Earth. I look forward to reading other books by this incredibly talented author. Happy reading!
March 19, 2015
I won a e-book copy of "Bit of Heaven on Earth" from the first week of the 4th anniversary giveaway for "The Romance Reviews" website and the following is my honest for this book.
It takes a lot of effort for an author to write any sort of novel set in a specific historical period of time. While grammatical errors can be overlooked, those errors involving historical information aren't so easily forgiven. Which is why of historical research which needs to be done, and verified, before an author can type that proverbial final period of their manuscript can be typed. Perhaps this is why many authors, including myself, avoid writing in this genre.
Ms. Linwood, on the other hand, has succeeded in this aspect of her book, as well as the time specific language she's used in the dialogue.
As for the overall story itself I found Elizabeth to be out of character for a woman of her times. Elizabeth is clearly doesn't want to be demure like other women, she wants to have self-determination in her life.
Elizabeth is a strong heroine-headstrong, thirsting for knowledge, willing to take on challenges that would be handled by men and determined to live her own life. After successfully avoiding being betrothed, she gets married off by her father into a life without sex to over-aged Alfred. However, Alfred allows her to be educated, which is definitely not the norm for this time period.
When Gavin enters her life as a knight in her husband's guard he lights a passion in Elizabeth's heart where none had existed before. She longs to be with him, but after her husband's death, fate steps in as she gets promised to another man.
Given Gavin's financial state, how can she have any sort of forever relationship with him as she has nothing herself since women during this time period couldn't own any property, etc. Yet, their relationship somehow endures within the confines which exist for them.
This is the first time I've read a book in this sub-genre of romance and found it to be quite inviting; it's a genre from which dreams and fantasies can be made. And as a result, I'm happy to give Ms. Linwood's endeavor here 5 STARS
It takes a lot of effort for an author to write any sort of novel set in a specific historical period of time. While grammatical errors can be overlooked, those errors involving historical information aren't so easily forgiven. Which is why of historical research which needs to be done, and verified, before an author can type that proverbial final period of their manuscript can be typed. Perhaps this is why many authors, including myself, avoid writing in this genre.
Ms. Linwood, on the other hand, has succeeded in this aspect of her book, as well as the time specific language she's used in the dialogue.
As for the overall story itself I found Elizabeth to be out of character for a woman of her times. Elizabeth is clearly doesn't want to be demure like other women, she wants to have self-determination in her life.
Elizabeth is a strong heroine-headstrong, thirsting for knowledge, willing to take on challenges that would be handled by men and determined to live her own life. After successfully avoiding being betrothed, she gets married off by her father into a life without sex to over-aged Alfred. However, Alfred allows her to be educated, which is definitely not the norm for this time period.
When Gavin enters her life as a knight in her husband's guard he lights a passion in Elizabeth's heart where none had existed before. She longs to be with him, but after her husband's death, fate steps in as she gets promised to another man.
Given Gavin's financial state, how can she have any sort of forever relationship with him as she has nothing herself since women during this time period couldn't own any property, etc. Yet, their relationship somehow endures within the confines which exist for them.
This is the first time I've read a book in this sub-genre of romance and found it to be quite inviting; it's a genre from which dreams and fantasies can be made. And as a result, I'm happy to give Ms. Linwood's endeavor here 5 STARS
January 18, 2022
First time reading from this author, i had not read a historical romance in awhile so it took me a bit to get back in the swing of things but this was a good read. Our hero Gavin is gonna suffer so much but i loved him having a kitten as a pet to help him with his loneliness. I like Elizabeth she was a wild one at the beginning but we see the change in her. Some of the dialogue took me a bit to figure out because this historical takes place in the 1300 and I'm used to reading in the 1800's. Obviously everything is kinda spoiled in the blurb. 😩 But overall a decent read.
ARC provided for free in exchange for a honest review all opinions are my own.
ARC provided for free in exchange for a honest review all opinions are my own.
February 27, 2022
I thought it was a good book. Loved the characters! I would have liked for the love triangle to have been resolved a bit faster, but that could be because I’m not overly patient and hated to feel the angst in Robert, Elizabeth, and Gavin. Probably because I’m assuming that someone will be hurt, and I hate to see that between friends/or former friends. Good read tho and like the newer cover. 😍
July 4, 2017
DNF = 1*
This is so bad I really can not believe people gave it good ratings. It started out fine and I was totally in the mood for medieval romance. But it went downhill quickly. Still I am not generally a quitter so I kept at it until the 70% mark or so. All of their actions simply fail to make any sense by this point. I was hoping they would all get the plague and the estate would go to anyone but them.
This is so bad I really can not believe people gave it good ratings. It started out fine and I was totally in the mood for medieval romance. But it went downhill quickly. Still I am not generally a quitter so I kept at it until the 70% mark or so. All of their actions simply fail to make any sense by this point. I was hoping they would all get the plague and the estate would go to anyone but them.
June 16, 2017
I enjoyed this tale of the plight of an intelligent, head strong young woman & the honorable warrior who'd lost all.
I was emotional engaged, raging at the injustice or sadness at the decline of a great man, hopeful at budding a friendship, torn & relieved
I will look for other work by this author.
I was emotional engaged, raging at the injustice or sadness at the decline of a great man, hopeful at budding a friendship, torn & relieved
I will look for other work by this author.
June 10, 2017
Brilliant!! Well written and the storyline wasn't so cliche.
Gavin was a very interesting character that I really liked. I liked the relationship he had with Robert.
I very much liked Elizabeth, she was a super woman and I like reading about strong women. The author may have missed some historic events, however this was spot on
Gavin was a very interesting character that I really liked. I liked the relationship he had with Robert.
I very much liked Elizabeth, she was a super woman and I like reading about strong women. The author may have missed some historic events, however this was spot on
June 10, 2017
A very nice fairytale~like feel to it with all the necessary drama, a bit of mystery and a happy ending. Nice smooth flow in the story line and altogether a Good Read.
June 8, 2017
Good Read
This book had a high level of plot, characters, and reality. It was a very smooth read and very entertaining.
This book had a high level of plot, characters, and reality. It was a very smooth read and very entertaining.
October 22, 2015
A little too predictable for me.
This author writes very well. No typos. Not many sex scenes and the ones that are there are tasteful.
Ok plot and characters.
I was looking for more angst and turmoil. That's the only reason I didn't love it.
You may like it. I do highly recommend Music For My Soul also by this author.
This author writes very well. No typos. Not many sex scenes and the ones that are there are tasteful.
Ok plot and characters.
I was looking for more angst and turmoil. That's the only reason I didn't love it.
You may like it. I do highly recommend Music For My Soul also by this author.
January 8, 2022
This is the first book by this author that I’ve read. I really enjoyed the buildup and the character development. I cared about the characters and wanted to know what would happen next. However, it felt like some of the ending was rushed. In addition, some of the phrases said by the main characters was a bit too sappy for me. Thus, four rather than five stars.
I’d read more by this author!
I’d read more by this author!
November 2, 2016
Sweet story.
July 15, 2023
5 STARS, MEDIEVAL TALE , RECOMMENDED
5 STARS for the amazing tale of Knights fighting & being captured in the beginning of the book. This is during the Hundred Year War in France & the 2 Knights that will continue in this beautifully told tale is Lord Gavin, our main knight & one who besides being extremely tall & muscled was an amazing experienced & able one. Then, Lord Robert his friend he had for years that they had fostered & trained together at Kentwood, the enormous estate of the Heroic well known Knight of the King's, Lord Aldred. After capture the 2 young knights were told that they were being ransomed. It wasn't long and Robert's Ransome arrived & he was off. Several weeks went by and Gavin was delivered a letter to his captors from his Father to read, " It said I am not sending any money, do with him as you will." Also sent a note to Gavin saying you are not my son anymore. Gavin realized his Father was angry which was a normal thing but not to send Ransome shocked him. Gavin was removed from his place of Knights waiting on Ransome to a most foul henious vial prison. He was moved several floors down & inward past a variety of men many who were in different cases of dying. It reeked of sweat, urine, mold, body odor, vomit, rotting of any substance that still existed outside the mens bodies, rats, human excrement, gangrene on the sores & parts of the men's bodies that were severely injured.
Gavin remained here 2 years and the joy the reader will get by reading the amazement of his escape & saving the life of a kitten hopefully not only makes them happy they are reading this book by Alexa Aston, but be motivated to grab a snack, drink, take that bathroom break & settle in for the long haul.
After he got back to England & worked his way through the country to Ashgrove his father's estate, home, hopefully to see his mother and learned she was dead & had been for 2 years, she died only weeks after he left. He had to fight to enter a place he thought he would be Lord to once his father died. With a sword he fought himself to the solar where his father held a sword against him & told him he was no longer welcomed there & the Lady (former mistress, wearing his mothers' personal jewelry that came with her on her marriage, on the woman's hand as she showed her very pregnant body. His father said the son in her womb was going to be his heir & if Gavin returned he would be killed on sight & he wasn't getting anything from there. He asked, pleaded with his father to please tell him what he did to make him feel so. Dear readers, this scene alone is worth 5 STARS, I could easily picture it in my mind playing as a movie or a play in a theater! Yes, even a musical, because the Lady kept yelling at her husband to tell him why, & I could very easily see or rather hear that part in a sharp musical way. He stuns Gavin by what he says, that he is a bastard & not his son. There is much more to this scene that makes one want to slap that man & say you didn't know, he didn't know, & the world only looked at this estate with envy because of Having worth as a knight. So, let the man you thought would die in France because you left him there to die have a few things of his mother's & surely he has some belongings still here he could take. The servants here at this estate were wonderful people. Also, as the man he had believed all of his life shouted bastard at him, the one thing he didn't shout was the true name of his father of birth. That died with his mother, if the man doesn't tell him. Another slap, no, this time a kick in the groin, I think just for being so sorry to leave that out, Gavin had not done any wrong and worked hard on this estate, he should have given him that.
The servants gave him a broken down horse but it's all they had, some coins to buy meals for a few days, and a few clean clothes and all told how they loved him, glad he lived & would miss him.
Out the gates Gavin & the cat take off for the only place he knows that he might get a bed & job. To the only man he had ever cared about or respected, the one where he had fostered as a boy & taught to be a knight. To be fair Lord Alfred taught him how to be the man he was today. So he was off to Kentwood.
At Kentwood, Lord Aldred is worrying about his much younger wife Elizabeth, he has already let the king know that since he was over 20 years older than her they had never had sexual interactions that would make her not clean. In other words she was still a virgin. All his children had died & he desired to help Elizabeth have a great place for her life after he was gone! Here comes Gavin, a Knight he has always been proud of; when he suggested he marry Elizabeth Gavin confides all he learned when he was disinheirted. He couldn't say anything at all to Gavin or Elizabeth, even though she thought he was a relative because of his eyes. Lord Aldred, now wrote the King asking that his estate be given to his son Gavin & for him to marry Elizabeth together run it. He remembered Having mother!
5 STARS for the amazing tale of Knights fighting & being captured in the beginning of the book. This is during the Hundred Year War in France & the 2 Knights that will continue in this beautifully told tale is Lord Gavin, our main knight & one who besides being extremely tall & muscled was an amazing experienced & able one. Then, Lord Robert his friend he had for years that they had fostered & trained together at Kentwood, the enormous estate of the Heroic well known Knight of the King's, Lord Aldred. After capture the 2 young knights were told that they were being ransomed. It wasn't long and Robert's Ransome arrived & he was off. Several weeks went by and Gavin was delivered a letter to his captors from his Father to read, " It said I am not sending any money, do with him as you will." Also sent a note to Gavin saying you are not my son anymore. Gavin realized his Father was angry which was a normal thing but not to send Ransome shocked him. Gavin was removed from his place of Knights waiting on Ransome to a most foul henious vial prison. He was moved several floors down & inward past a variety of men many who were in different cases of dying. It reeked of sweat, urine, mold, body odor, vomit, rotting of any substance that still existed outside the mens bodies, rats, human excrement, gangrene on the sores & parts of the men's bodies that were severely injured.
Gavin remained here 2 years and the joy the reader will get by reading the amazement of his escape & saving the life of a kitten hopefully not only makes them happy they are reading this book by Alexa Aston, but be motivated to grab a snack, drink, take that bathroom break & settle in for the long haul.
After he got back to England & worked his way through the country to Ashgrove his father's estate, home, hopefully to see his mother and learned she was dead & had been for 2 years, she died only weeks after he left. He had to fight to enter a place he thought he would be Lord to once his father died. With a sword he fought himself to the solar where his father held a sword against him & told him he was no longer welcomed there & the Lady (former mistress, wearing his mothers' personal jewelry that came with her on her marriage, on the woman's hand as she showed her very pregnant body. His father said the son in her womb was going to be his heir & if Gavin returned he would be killed on sight & he wasn't getting anything from there. He asked, pleaded with his father to please tell him what he did to make him feel so. Dear readers, this scene alone is worth 5 STARS, I could easily picture it in my mind playing as a movie or a play in a theater! Yes, even a musical, because the Lady kept yelling at her husband to tell him why, & I could very easily see or rather hear that part in a sharp musical way. He stuns Gavin by what he says, that he is a bastard & not his son. There is much more to this scene that makes one want to slap that man & say you didn't know, he didn't know, & the world only looked at this estate with envy because of Having worth as a knight. So, let the man you thought would die in France because you left him there to die have a few things of his mother's & surely he has some belongings still here he could take. The servants here at this estate were wonderful people. Also, as the man he had believed all of his life shouted bastard at him, the one thing he didn't shout was the true name of his father of birth. That died with his mother, if the man doesn't tell him. Another slap, no, this time a kick in the groin, I think just for being so sorry to leave that out, Gavin had not done any wrong and worked hard on this estate, he should have given him that.
The servants gave him a broken down horse but it's all they had, some coins to buy meals for a few days, and a few clean clothes and all told how they loved him, glad he lived & would miss him.
Out the gates Gavin & the cat take off for the only place he knows that he might get a bed & job. To the only man he had ever cared about or respected, the one where he had fostered as a boy & taught to be a knight. To be fair Lord Alfred taught him how to be the man he was today. So he was off to Kentwood.
At Kentwood, Lord Aldred is worrying about his much younger wife Elizabeth, he has already let the king know that since he was over 20 years older than her they had never had sexual interactions that would make her not clean. In other words she was still a virgin. All his children had died & he desired to help Elizabeth have a great place for her life after he was gone! Here comes Gavin, a Knight he has always been proud of; when he suggested he marry Elizabeth Gavin confides all he learned when he was disinheirted. He couldn't say anything at all to Gavin or Elizabeth, even though she thought he was a relative because of his eyes. Lord Aldred, now wrote the King asking that his estate be given to his son Gavin & for him to marry Elizabeth together run it. He remembered Having mother!
January 3, 2018
“NEVER WAS LOVE SO SWEET AS THIS…….”
Lord Gavin of Ashgrove and Lord Robert of Fondren are brothers in arms, fighting in France for (Edward of Windsor) King Edward III. The year is 1347 and the English victory, the previous year, at the Battle of Crecy is still fresh in their memories. They are again facing a force much larger than theirs but are still full of confidence that they will carry the day.
The best-laid plans often go awry. Bravery, on both sides of the line of battle, was never the issue. Both sides fought bravely but as the day progressed the numbers started to turn against the English forces. Both Sir Gavin and Sir Robert fought side by side and later, when French knights surrounded them, back to back. Wounded and struck down, both knights were captured. They were tended to and held, as the custom was in those days, held for ransom. Sir Robert was soon released and sent back, across the Channel, to England. Gavin remained behind, awaiting his father’s reply. A reply eventually arrived, but not the ransom. The missive from his father was, “do with him what you may.” Gavin was promptly moved to the common prisoners to share their squandered conditions.
This sets the scene for a Middle Age drama and romance that will keep the reader stymied with bated breath as the tale unfolds. Lady Elizabeth of Aldwyn, a woman with a spirit that no man can tame, is forced into marriage with Lord Aldred of Kentwood. Lord Aldred, an old and distinguished knight of long and faithful service to the king, is much older than his new bride of seventeen. Age and assorted ailments have left Aldred sexually dysfunctional and Elizabeth a virgin wife.
Although I am far from being an authority on the Middle Ages or The Hundred Years War, the facts presented in this tale seem to be accurate. The characters are well formed and presented. This story is based on a uniquely original premise and flows in beautiful lines. This book is my introduction to this author and I look forward to reading more of her work. She has impressed me with her style, research, and talent.
Lord Gavin of Ashgrove and Lord Robert of Fondren are brothers in arms, fighting in France for (Edward of Windsor) King Edward III. The year is 1347 and the English victory, the previous year, at the Battle of Crecy is still fresh in their memories. They are again facing a force much larger than theirs but are still full of confidence that they will carry the day.
The best-laid plans often go awry. Bravery, on both sides of the line of battle, was never the issue. Both sides fought bravely but as the day progressed the numbers started to turn against the English forces. Both Sir Gavin and Sir Robert fought side by side and later, when French knights surrounded them, back to back. Wounded and struck down, both knights were captured. They were tended to and held, as the custom was in those days, held for ransom. Sir Robert was soon released and sent back, across the Channel, to England. Gavin remained behind, awaiting his father’s reply. A reply eventually arrived, but not the ransom. The missive from his father was, “do with him what you may.” Gavin was promptly moved to the common prisoners to share their squandered conditions.
This sets the scene for a Middle Age drama and romance that will keep the reader stymied with bated breath as the tale unfolds. Lady Elizabeth of Aldwyn, a woman with a spirit that no man can tame, is forced into marriage with Lord Aldred of Kentwood. Lord Aldred, an old and distinguished knight of long and faithful service to the king, is much older than his new bride of seventeen. Age and assorted ailments have left Aldred sexually dysfunctional and Elizabeth a virgin wife.
Although I am far from being an authority on the Middle Ages or The Hundred Years War, the facts presented in this tale seem to be accurate. The characters are well formed and presented. This story is based on a uniquely original premise and flows in beautiful lines. This book is my introduction to this author and I look forward to reading more of her work. She has impressed me with her style, research, and talent.
May 31, 2023
3.5 STARS
The author states at the end of the blurb, that it is a revised edition of A Bit of Heaven on Earth which was originally released under the pen name Lauren Linwood. So check your libraries to see if you own it.
The fight scenes prior to being captured were so heart pounding I couldn't read fast enough to see who survived!
Oh my how my heart ached for the H, in the Prison scenes, especially after his friend Robert is allowed to leave. How the author wrote these scenes made me feel his anguish. The scene with the Priest was very emotional.
The H is a Knight who is supposed to be honorable. I must say after he makes his way back to where he Fostered, he was anything but honorable. My opinion of him dropped and stayed there (will go more into this at the end).
The h starts out as spoiled at 17 but soon blossoms into a strong willed, take charge person. She cares for those under her care.
As the story progresses Robert who was such a great character, seems to have a personality change. He forces his kisses on the h which seemed so out of character for him.
Lovemaking outside of marriage, heat level 2.5 out of 5. Little on romance but they each lust for each other.
Violence, suspenseful, twists, bumpy road to HEA and steam. No cliffhanger, but some form of cheating. The h is married which the H knows. The H always felt the man who fostered him was like a second father. This is who the h is married too. So he kisses the man's wife and she kisses him back! Of course, they both have guilt afterwards. They do not have sex while she is married. So form your own opinion if cheating. (ljb)
The author states at the end of the blurb, that it is a revised edition of A Bit of Heaven on Earth which was originally released under the pen name Lauren Linwood. So check your libraries to see if you own it.
The fight scenes prior to being captured were so heart pounding I couldn't read fast enough to see who survived!
Oh my how my heart ached for the H, in the Prison scenes, especially after his friend Robert is allowed to leave. How the author wrote these scenes made me feel his anguish. The scene with the Priest was very emotional.
The H is a Knight who is supposed to be honorable. I must say after he makes his way back to where he Fostered, he was anything but honorable. My opinion of him dropped and stayed there (will go more into this at the end).
The h starts out as spoiled at 17 but soon blossoms into a strong willed, take charge person. She cares for those under her care.
As the story progresses Robert who was such a great character, seems to have a personality change. He forces his kisses on the h which seemed so out of character for him.
Lovemaking outside of marriage, heat level 2.5 out of 5. Little on romance but they each lust for each other.
Violence, suspenseful, twists, bumpy road to HEA and steam. No cliffhanger, but some form of cheating. The h is married which the H knows. The H always felt the man who fostered him was like a second father. This is who the h is married too. So he kisses the man's wife and she kisses him back! Of course, they both have guilt afterwards. They do not have sex while she is married. So form your own opinion if cheating. (ljb)
January 16, 2022
A Bit of Heaven by Alexa Aston
Knights of Redemption #1
Originally published in 2014 under the penname Lauren Linwood, it is now being reissued under the name Alexa Aston. The book description sounded intriguing, the era interesting, and the story premise one I might enjoy. In fact, I did enjoy the story.
What I liked:
* Elizabeth: Lady, daughter to a man who wanted her tamed, given in marriage to a man much older than herself, a bargain is made with her new husband, and we catch up with her after a decade or so passes between her wedding day and the story’s true beginning
* Gavin: knight, son of a lord (or so he thinks), captive, disowned, in peril, saved by a priest, in need of a future, a nice enough guy that might have more to look forward to than he realized.
* King Edward: seems a hearty even-handed leader that does well by those that serve him
* Lord Aldred: warrior, older, a good man, kind, a good friend, I would have liked to have known him when he was decades younger…
* The friendship between Robert and Gavin
* Janus: the priest that was a savior…though I wonder how he decided which man to save
* That there was a happily ever after ending
What I didn’t like:
* The “fathers” of Elizabeth and Gavin
* The treatment of the French prisoners
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to Oliver Heber and BookSprout for the ARC – This is my honest review.
3-4 Stars
Knights of Redemption #1
Originally published in 2014 under the penname Lauren Linwood, it is now being reissued under the name Alexa Aston. The book description sounded intriguing, the era interesting, and the story premise one I might enjoy. In fact, I did enjoy the story.
What I liked:
* Elizabeth: Lady, daughter to a man who wanted her tamed, given in marriage to a man much older than herself, a bargain is made with her new husband, and we catch up with her after a decade or so passes between her wedding day and the story’s true beginning
* Gavin: knight, son of a lord (or so he thinks), captive, disowned, in peril, saved by a priest, in need of a future, a nice enough guy that might have more to look forward to than he realized.
* King Edward: seems a hearty even-handed leader that does well by those that serve him
* Lord Aldred: warrior, older, a good man, kind, a good friend, I would have liked to have known him when he was decades younger…
* The friendship between Robert and Gavin
* Janus: the priest that was a savior…though I wonder how he decided which man to save
* That there was a happily ever after ending
What I didn’t like:
* The “fathers” of Elizabeth and Gavin
* The treatment of the French prisoners
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to Oliver Heber and BookSprout for the ARC – This is my honest review.
3-4 Stars
February 7, 2022
Alexa Aston’s “A Bit of Heaven on Earth” is Book 1 in this wonderful new series Knights of Redemption. I loved this book!
Captured and imprisonment, ransomed and denied, disinherited and proclaimed a bastard, Gavin of Ashgrove has escaped and returned to England penniless. Returning to the place where he fostered as a boy. Soon he's involved in a plan to marry the beautiful, outspoken Elizabeth, Lord Aldred‘s wife because he’s dying.
Gavin and Elizabeth are two people who’ve through no fault of their own have lived through to too many torments and deserve their chance at happiness.
The author creates beautiful, wounded characters you find yourself rooting for throughout the story. She does a fantastic job expressing the gamut of emotions the characters feel, which pulled me and further. It’s with these characters, a good storyline, and exceptional writing that the author creates a romantic story that will capture your heart and senses.
Thank you so much Ms. Ashton for this beautifully written, wonderfully told romantic story. I eagerly await the next book in the series.
Captured and imprisonment, ransomed and denied, disinherited and proclaimed a bastard, Gavin of Ashgrove has escaped and returned to England penniless. Returning to the place where he fostered as a boy. Soon he's involved in a plan to marry the beautiful, outspoken Elizabeth, Lord Aldred‘s wife because he’s dying.
Gavin and Elizabeth are two people who’ve through no fault of their own have lived through to too many torments and deserve their chance at happiness.
The author creates beautiful, wounded characters you find yourself rooting for throughout the story. She does a fantastic job expressing the gamut of emotions the characters feel, which pulled me and further. It’s with these characters, a good storyline, and exceptional writing that the author creates a romantic story that will capture your heart and senses.
Thank you so much Ms. Ashton for this beautifully written, wonderfully told romantic story. I eagerly await the next book in the series.
January 12, 2022
I enjoyed this book. It was not what I expected from Alexa Aston, but it was good. A Bit of Heaven on Earth starts out on a battlefield with a great deal of blood and gore which almost turned me off of the book, but I read through it and enjoyed it. I do have to say that the description I read did not entirely match the book. The story is about Elizabeth, a headstrong young lady that is forced to marry an older lord, Aldred. Elizabeth is more like a daughter or companion to him, helping him run his estate. Gavin is a brave soldier who is taken prisoner and ransomed. When his father refuses the rensom, Gavin spends two years in a French prison until he escapes and then is sent away from home. He goes to Aldred to seek asylum. I would definitely recommend this book, especially if you like medieval historical romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 11, 2017
A Wonderful story
This is a new author so I wasn't sure how the story would be. I loved it. I will be watching for more of her books. The story of headstrong young woman , forced to marry. Her father has tried to marry her off without success so he tricks her and she is married to Lord Aldred. He was looking at wife to mother his children. They make a bargain and become veryclose. Another Lord is at war in France and is captured his father refuses to pay ransom . Don't want to give anything away but is wonderful story. I received this as a gift and couldn't put it down.
This is a new author so I wasn't sure how the story would be. I loved it. I will be watching for more of her books. The story of headstrong young woman , forced to marry. Her father has tried to marry her off without success so he tricks her and she is married to Lord Aldred. He was looking at wife to mother his children. They make a bargain and become veryclose. Another Lord is at war in France and is captured his father refuses to pay ransom . Don't want to give anything away but is wonderful story. I received this as a gift and couldn't put it down.
September 7, 2021
I don't know why this book sat in my 'to read' list since 2019 because it was very good. Surprisingly good actually. The author gave you just enough sadness and betrayal to feel sympathetic but not too much. And just enough love and happiness not to be gushy.
Even though the story was predictable I enjoyed reading it. Elizabeth is headstrong but loyal to her elderly husband who is unable to sexually perform. When she meets Gavin, it isn't love at first sight but slowly becomes respect, affection and then love. Great characters including the old priest who helped Gavin escape from the French prison and Robert the loyal friend of Elizabeth and Gavin.
Even though the story was predictable I enjoyed reading it. Elizabeth is headstrong but loyal to her elderly husband who is unable to sexually perform. When she meets Gavin, it isn't love at first sight but slowly becomes respect, affection and then love. Great characters including the old priest who helped Gavin escape from the French prison and Robert the loyal friend of Elizabeth and Gavin.
February 22, 2022
This is my second read by this Author. Im now ashamed to admit that i bought the ebook on Amazon a long time ago, but had forgotten it. Then I got the second one, A KNIGHT FOR KALLEN, which I immediately read. It was five stars and this one was recommended at the end. Even though i was supposed to be reading a book by one of my favorite writers, i put it off to read this one.I could not put it down! I was practically mesmerized. It is better than five stars. The characters are vibrant and step off the pages. It’s filled with all the elements that will tear your heart out then put it back together again. She has been added to the top of my list for favorite Authors.
June 18, 2017
A beautiful love story
Elizabeth's father, having had enough of her refusal to wed, marries her to elderly Lord Aldred. However, the union is quite comfortable for both and they grow to love each other.
Gavin is fighting in France under the command of the Black Prince when Gavin and Robert are captured by the French. Robert is ransomed but Gavin's father refuses to pay his ransom and he is left to rot in a squalid French prison.
This is a fine, well-written story rife with emotion. You feel like you know the characters well. I definitely recommend this book to readers of historical romance.
13
Elizabeth's father, having had enough of her refusal to wed, marries her to elderly Lord Aldred. However, the union is quite comfortable for both and they grow to love each other.
Gavin is fighting in France under the command of the Black Prince when Gavin and Robert are captured by the French. Robert is ransomed but Gavin's father refuses to pay his ransom and he is left to rot in a squalid French prison.
This is a fine, well-written story rife with emotion. You feel like you know the characters well. I definitely recommend this book to readers of historical romance.
13
August 12, 2019
The Strong Will Survive
A beautiful love story full of sorrow and tragedy. Gavin had survived a French prison, abandoned and denied love. Elizabeth had never been in love, but she found happiness with her aged husband and his estate. Her husband died and she was left wondering what would happen to her. King Edward changed all their lives with a letter from her deceased husband. It was the beginning of the first day of Gavin and Elizabeth lives. They had found heaven on earth.
A beautiful love story full of sorrow and tragedy. Gavin had survived a French prison, abandoned and denied love. Elizabeth had never been in love, but she found happiness with her aged husband and his estate. Her husband died and she was left wondering what would happen to her. King Edward changed all their lives with a letter from her deceased husband. It was the beginning of the first day of Gavin and Elizabeth lives. They had found heaven on earth.
April 24, 2023
When Galvin’s father refused to pay the soldiers ransom he was put in prison and kept there for two years. A priest helped him escape. He went home to be told his mother was a whore and he was thrown out of what he thought was his home. He went to the man who had fostered him and trained him as a soldier.
Elizabeth is married to Aldred. Theirs has been a wonderful marriage. He has taught her much, but because of his age she is still a virgin. As he comes to the end of his life he makes plans for Elizabeth.
Elizabeth is married to Aldred. Theirs has been a wonderful marriage. He has taught her much, but because of his age she is still a virgin. As he comes to the end of his life he makes plans for Elizabeth.
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