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Guardians of the Crown #1
By the Sword
The first volume of this gripping historical drama about having the courage to stand up for your beliefs and fight for your love
England 1650: In the aftermath of the execution of the King, England totters once more on the brink of civil war.
Kate Ashley finds her loyalty to the Parliamentary cause tested when she inherits responsibility for the estate of the Royalist Thornton family. To protect the people she cares about, she will need all her wits to restore its fortunes and fend off the ever-present threat of greedy neighbours.
Jonathan Thornton, exiled and hunted for his loyalty to the King’s cause, now returns to England to garner support for the young King. Haunted by the demons of his past, Jonathan risks death at every turn and brings danger to those who love him. Finding Kate in his family home, he sees in her the hope for his future, and a chance at a life he doesn’t deserve.
Kate and Jonathan’s love is fragile, and their lives are manipulated by events out of their control. What hope can one ragged soldier and a brave woman hold in times like these?
England 1650: In the aftermath of the execution of the King, England totters once more on the brink of civil war.
Kate Ashley finds her loyalty to the Parliamentary cause tested when she inherits responsibility for the estate of the Royalist Thornton family. To protect the people she cares about, she will need all her wits to restore its fortunes and fend off the ever-present threat of greedy neighbours.
Jonathan Thornton, exiled and hunted for his loyalty to the King’s cause, now returns to England to garner support for the young King. Haunted by the demons of his past, Jonathan risks death at every turn and brings danger to those who love him. Finding Kate in his family home, he sees in her the hope for his future, and a chance at a life he doesn’t deserve.
Kate and Jonathan’s love is fragile, and their lives are manipulated by events out of their control. What hope can one ragged soldier and a brave woman hold in times like these?
396 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2007
About the author
Alison Stuart
26 books367 followersMystery, history, romance and more…
Alison Stuart writes historical romances and short stories set in England and Australia and across different periods of history. She is best known for THE POSTMISTRESS and THE GOLDMINER'S SISTER, stories set in the Victorian goldfields in the 1870s.
She also writes historical mysteries as A.M. Stuart and her popular Harriet Gordon mystery series is set in Singapore in 1910.
She lives in Melbourne, Australia with her husband and a geriatric cat. In a past life Alison worked as a lawyer across a variety of disciplines including the military and emergency services. She has lived in Africa and Singapore and, when circumstances permit, travels extensively - all for research of course!
(This writer is NOT the Alison Stuart who also writes as Kate Tremayne and authored Fateful Shadows, Sin No More, Barefoot Angel, Innocence Betrayed or Loyalty Defiled.)
Alison Stuart writes historical romances and short stories set in England and Australia and across different periods of history. She is best known for THE POSTMISTRESS and THE GOLDMINER'S SISTER, stories set in the Victorian goldfields in the 1870s.
She also writes historical mysteries as A.M. Stuart and her popular Harriet Gordon mystery series is set in Singapore in 1910.
She lives in Melbourne, Australia with her husband and a geriatric cat. In a past life Alison worked as a lawyer across a variety of disciplines including the military and emergency services. She has lived in Africa and Singapore and, when circumstances permit, travels extensively - all for research of course!
(This writer is NOT the Alison Stuart who also writes as Kate Tremayne and authored Fateful Shadows, Sin No More, Barefoot Angel, Innocence Betrayed or Loyalty Defiled.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
May 9, 2015
In the mid 1600’s, Kate Ashley is a widow with a young son, 9 year old Thomas. She lived near her sister Suzanne, husband William and their children in Barton, Yorkshire where they lived a frugal, but happy life.
One day Kate received a letter from Tom’s great grandfather, Sir Francis Thornton, from whom they had been estranged for many years. The old man was on his death bed, and wanted to ‘clear his conscience’ by meeting Tom and Kate. It had been 30 years since the elopement which had split the family in two, and Kate had no desire to meet the old man. But speaking to Tom later, she discovered he wished to meet and get to know his father’s family.
Between the time of meeting Sir Francis, and his subsequent death, many things happened, not least being the meeting of the black sheep of the family, Sir Francis’ grandson, Jonathon Thornton, fugitive royalist fighting by the young King Charles II’s side, and the bequeathing of the Thornton family home ‘Seven Ways’ to Tom, with Kate to have complete control of the estate until Tom came of age.
With the English Civil War in full swing, things began to get difficult for Kate, and Jon’s sister Nell. Nell’s husband Giles was an officer fighting alongside Jon, and when their nemesis Stephen Prescott, who had been hunting Jonathan for years, arrived on Kate’s doorstep, she had to use all her powers of persuasion to be able to lie convincingly to this evil man.
When Prescott and Jon finally confronted each other, Prescott revealed a secret to Jon which was set to change his life, and that of Kate, the woman he’d come to love deeply, forever.
This historical fiction tale by Aussie author, Alison Stuart, was extremely skilfully told. It kept me enthralled and reading long into the night, with the love and loyalty, captures and escapes, gunfire and pain, all being an integral part of the story.
I can’t wait to read Alison’s next book, ‘The King’s Man’.
One day Kate received a letter from Tom’s great grandfather, Sir Francis Thornton, from whom they had been estranged for many years. The old man was on his death bed, and wanted to ‘clear his conscience’ by meeting Tom and Kate. It had been 30 years since the elopement which had split the family in two, and Kate had no desire to meet the old man. But speaking to Tom later, she discovered he wished to meet and get to know his father’s family.
Between the time of meeting Sir Francis, and his subsequent death, many things happened, not least being the meeting of the black sheep of the family, Sir Francis’ grandson, Jonathon Thornton, fugitive royalist fighting by the young King Charles II’s side, and the bequeathing of the Thornton family home ‘Seven Ways’ to Tom, with Kate to have complete control of the estate until Tom came of age.
With the English Civil War in full swing, things began to get difficult for Kate, and Jon’s sister Nell. Nell’s husband Giles was an officer fighting alongside Jon, and when their nemesis Stephen Prescott, who had been hunting Jonathan for years, arrived on Kate’s doorstep, she had to use all her powers of persuasion to be able to lie convincingly to this evil man.
When Prescott and Jon finally confronted each other, Prescott revealed a secret to Jon which was set to change his life, and that of Kate, the woman he’d come to love deeply, forever.
This historical fiction tale by Aussie author, Alison Stuart, was extremely skilfully told. It kept me enthralled and reading long into the night, with the love and loyalty, captures and escapes, gunfire and pain, all being an integral part of the story.
I can’t wait to read Alison’s next book, ‘The King’s Man’.
May 25, 2018
This book have such a stellar rating that I kept checking to see if I was reading the same book...
...and yes, it was the same book...
It seems that I will be the first one to write a 2 star review for this...
I'm sure that this rating depends on my personal experience, but I was constantly angry with every character here, except Ant Hen!
Kate... yes, she was strong. Yes, she has been through many troubles. But she also fell in love with a totally unlikable man. And even if she knew it perfectly well, it was enough for him to kiss her and she forgot everything! That's why I was constantly angry with her!
Jonathan... the oh, so honorable man (I'm being sarcastic here, just to be clear!)!!! He gave his word to follow the King... and if everybody died because of that, well, it's OK! He'll feel sad, but he gave his word!!! The worst was that he knew perfectly that the King's fight was futile...
Yes, you do, Jonathan!!!
So, Jonathan brings all kind of disaters on everybody in his life, but he's such a swooning hero! Really????!!!
He runs away, lies to Kate, runs away for a
really important
King's business (but we never see anything important there...), lies to Kate, returns to Kate, have sex with ther, lies to Kate because he wants to protect her... and it goes on and on and on...
And Kate forgives him everytime!!! Beuacse he's so honorable and hot and sweet... Wake up, Kate!!!
There's also Jon's sister Nell and her philandering husband and Jon's best friend Giles... What can I say about them? Nell is a doormat. Ful. Stop.
She knows that Giles is fu*cking every woman he finds, but that's OK for her.... As soon as she sees Giles she jumps his bones and... get's pregnant! Since she has one girl and at the end of the book is pregnant, you count how many times she saw her husband!!!! But that's OK, because she loves him!!
Obviously, Jon know about Giles's little peccadilloes, but that's OK: Nell know and loves him, so why make fuss???
I don't know how could anybody say something positive about these characters?
Two stars is me being overgenerous!!!!
...and yes, it was the same book...
It seems that I will be the first one to write a 2 star review for this...
I'm sure that this rating depends on my personal experience, but I was constantly angry with every character here, except Ant Hen!
Kate... yes, she was strong. Yes, she has been through many troubles. But she also fell in love with a totally unlikable man. And even if she knew it perfectly well, it was enough for him to kiss her and she forgot everything! That's why I was constantly angry with her!
Jonathan... the oh, so honorable man (I'm being sarcastic here, just to be clear!)!!! He gave his word to follow the King... and if everybody died because of that, well, it's OK! He'll feel sad, but he gave his word!!! The worst was that he knew perfectly that the King's fight was futile...
Yes, you do, Jonathan!!!
So, Jonathan brings all kind of disaters on everybody in his life, but he's such a swooning hero! Really????!!!
He runs away, lies to Kate, runs away for a
And Kate forgives him everytime!!! Beuacse he's so honorable and hot and sweet... Wake up, Kate!!!
There's also Jon's sister Nell and her philandering husband and Jon's best friend Giles... What can I say about them? Nell is a doormat. Ful. Stop.
She knows that Giles is fu*cking every woman he finds, but that's OK for her.... As soon as she sees Giles she jumps his bones and... get's pregnant! Since she has one girl and at the end of the book is pregnant, you count how many times she saw her husband!!!! But that's OK, because she loves him!!
Obviously, Jon know about Giles's little peccadilloes, but that's OK: Nell know and loves him, so why make fuss???
I don't know how could anybody say something positive about these characters?
Two stars is me being overgenerous!!!!
March 22, 2016
I am not always a fan of romance but when it is mixed in with a good bit of historical fiction I find it quite palatable. This author knows how to mix it up and I have enjoyed several of her books so far. By The Sword is I believe her debut novel and as such it is very good indeed. I found I really cared for some of her characters especially Jonathan who deserved a really happy ending! There were lots of good historical facts about the Cavaliers and the Roundheads and her descriptions of English living at the time seemed appropriate. Very well worth reading and I look forward to more of this author's books.
May 18, 2015
Widow Kate Ashley and her nine year old son Thomas lived a happy and reasonably contented life in Barton, Yorkshire; with her sister Suzanne, husband William and their brood of children close by, Kate had family enough around her. But when she received a summons from Tom’s great grandfather, Sir Frances Thornton to his estate of 'Seven Ways', she had no idea what would be the right thing to do. The Thornton and Ashley families had been estranged for thirty years – Kate had no desire to meet the old man who wanted to “clear his conscience” before he passed away – but Tom, she found, wanted to meet his great grandfather.
Kate’s meeting of Sir Frances and Nell, his granddaughter was a smooth one; but 'Seven Ways' was in dire straits. The civil war had taken its toll with Nell’s husband Giles and brother Jonathan who were both loyal to King Charles II and away at war. The fortunes of the estate had turned – the once beautiful old home was gradually falling to ruin. But when Kate discovered Sir Frances’ intention, she was shocked. Her future was about to change in more ways than one…
When Jonathan arrived home for a secretive and brief visit to his ailing grandfather, his meeting of Kate and young Tom gave him pause. Jonathan’s life had been one of intense danger – he had no fear of death and had even courted it. But now he wondered; could he put his past behind him? The dreadful secrets of a past that needed to be faced; with a price on his head, he felt he continued to put loved ones in danger…
The deadly Battle of Worcester was one of great carnage to both sides – but Kate’s determination to keep 'Seven Ways' going, along with her worry about the safety of Jonathan and Giles had her doing more than she ever had before. There was evil close to Kate; an evil she was unaware of – would she be safe? Would her future be secure?
Aussie author Alison Stuart is an extremely talented writer of historical fiction. By the Sword was originally published in 2010 and this edition is a "polished up" republication. Therefore it is a reread for me, but I’ve loved it as much, if not more, than I did the first time. Skilfully told, the historical facts are authentic. In the author’s words at the end of the book, and in part; “The battle of Worcester is among the last battles ever fought on English soil and the reminders of that time are still very much to be found around that lovely city.” and “’Seven Ways’ itself bears very close resemblance both in appearance and location to Harvington Hall near Kidderminster in Worcestershire, a place that held a special significance to my grandfather, who took great pleasure in showing me all the priest holes – including the one in the study that is much as described.”
I loved By the Sword and have no hesitation in recommending it highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and the author for my copy to read and review.
Kate’s meeting of Sir Frances and Nell, his granddaughter was a smooth one; but 'Seven Ways' was in dire straits. The civil war had taken its toll with Nell’s husband Giles and brother Jonathan who were both loyal to King Charles II and away at war. The fortunes of the estate had turned – the once beautiful old home was gradually falling to ruin. But when Kate discovered Sir Frances’ intention, she was shocked. Her future was about to change in more ways than one…
When Jonathan arrived home for a secretive and brief visit to his ailing grandfather, his meeting of Kate and young Tom gave him pause. Jonathan’s life had been one of intense danger – he had no fear of death and had even courted it. But now he wondered; could he put his past behind him? The dreadful secrets of a past that needed to be faced; with a price on his head, he felt he continued to put loved ones in danger…
The deadly Battle of Worcester was one of great carnage to both sides – but Kate’s determination to keep 'Seven Ways' going, along with her worry about the safety of Jonathan and Giles had her doing more than she ever had before. There was evil close to Kate; an evil she was unaware of – would she be safe? Would her future be secure?
Aussie author Alison Stuart is an extremely talented writer of historical fiction. By the Sword was originally published in 2010 and this edition is a "polished up" republication. Therefore it is a reread for me, but I’ve loved it as much, if not more, than I did the first time. Skilfully told, the historical facts are authentic. In the author’s words at the end of the book, and in part; “The battle of Worcester is among the last battles ever fought on English soil and the reminders of that time are still very much to be found around that lovely city.” and “’Seven Ways’ itself bears very close resemblance both in appearance and location to Harvington Hall near Kidderminster in Worcestershire, a place that held a special significance to my grandfather, who took great pleasure in showing me all the priest holes – including the one in the study that is much as described.”
I loved By the Sword and have no hesitation in recommending it highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and the author for my copy to read and review.
June 27, 2015
Set in 1650 during the English civil wars this is a story full of romance and adventure. Cromwell's parliament currently rules England while Charles II and his court are in exile in France. Jonathan Thornton is a Royalist loyally fighting for his King in a war he knows they will likely lose. Kate Ashley, loyal to the Parliamentary cause is the widow of Jonathan's cousin but her family has been estranged from the Thorntons and she has never met them. She is therefore surprised when she and her son are summoned to the Thornton estate by Jonathan's ailing father and her 9 year old son is named his heir in order to keep the estate in the family. Finding the estate in a pitiful state Kate must do what she can to keep it going. When Jonathan returns from exile, the attraction is instant even though they are on opposite sides and Jonathan must hide and run from Cromwell's men.
The period setting for this novel was excellent with good descriptions of the events and battles leading up to the second exile of Charles II. The details of day to day life and what it meant to be a puritan or a royalist in the 1650s also felt well researched. Kate is a strong character, a feminist of her time able to stand up to bullies and protect those she loves. Despite his royalist sympathies she loves the handsome, dashing Jonathan and admires his loyality to his beliefs and his friends. An excellent historical novel set in a time of great turmoil.
March 21, 2015
I really enjoy stories set in this era such strong men and their strong heroines they went through so much during the civil war in England family and neighbours against each other but when they fall in love they have a lot to overcome and their journey is a rocky road to that HEA and this one had me turning the pages as Kate Ashley with a loyalty to the Parliamentarians and Jonathon Thornton an exiled colonel for the Royalist a firm believer in The King. Kate has been left widowed by this war and has no intention of marrying again that is until she meets Jonathon a cousin to her late husband their journey is filled with danger and ups and downs in this trying time in England but what a trip to their HEA I loved this story it shows such strength and courage and had me smiling and crying and for romance readers with a passion for history or anyone that enjoys a great story I highly recommend this one
February 26, 2015
Originally published on Lair Of A Wordsmith
A romance novel where, for the most part, the hero and heroine live apart. It being a time when letters were the mode of communication, these two had no idea what happened with the other.
Kate Ashley is a young widow who runs her household and is raising her nine-year old son. She does not wish to marry again. Out of the blue, after receiving an invitation to a house named Seven Ways to meet a relative of her late husband whose family has been estranged from that of her husband's family for a long time.
At Seven Ways, not only she finds friendship but also another love. She finds Jonathan Thornton, a Royalist soldier who has been at war since a decade fighting to keep the rightful King of England on his throne.
There is a catch here. Tom (Kate's son) is sort of replica of Jonathan Thornton. Family resemblance and all.
Back to the review.
Jonathan and Kate feel something for each other but they keep their feelings to themselves as both of them know that there is nothing for them in the future because as far as priorities go, Jonathan's number one priority is his King.
One may wonder, how does their romance stay put?
Here is how.
Though the only times they get chances of being together are in between all the skirmishes and preparations for battle, they remain faithful to each other (unlike other people also mentioned in the novel who only believe fidelity to only to be kept as far as emotions go).
Parliament wins and Jonathan is nothing but a traitor and circumstances demand that he endured self-inflicted exile if he wishes to live. He is no more a free man.
Another catch. When Jonathan finally proposed Kate, she says she will marry him when e will be a free man. She will wait for that day.
While all this plays out, Prescott (a Parliamentarian soldier who hates Jonathan) informs him of his bastard child living in Oxford. He does not know it to be true or otherwise but goes to find the truth of it when he leaves Seven Ways and Kate to live a life in exile. And voila! It is true. He has a daughter who is six years of age.
Not wanting to burden Kate more, he leaves his daughter with an Uncle in London and leaves. And gets caught at the dock and sent to the London Tower.
Having not heard from her love, she seeks out the aforementioned uncle to help her find him as she believes Jonathan to be in trouble. This uncle is also a Parliamentarian but he is Family.
I am not going to give the climax away but it being a Romance there definitely is a Happily Ever After after the reunion which I leave you to find out for yourself.
_____________________________
One amazing thing about this one is the not only the dialogue uses the words more popular during the time but the narrative keeps up with that as well. No modern or fancy words to bring you out of the world that is solely the book's.
A romance novel where, for the most part, the hero and heroine live apart. It being a time when letters were the mode of communication, these two had no idea what happened with the other.
Kate Ashley is a young widow who runs her household and is raising her nine-year old son. She does not wish to marry again. Out of the blue, after receiving an invitation to a house named Seven Ways to meet a relative of her late husband whose family has been estranged from that of her husband's family for a long time.
At Seven Ways, not only she finds friendship but also another love. She finds Jonathan Thornton, a Royalist soldier who has been at war since a decade fighting to keep the rightful King of England on his throne.
There is a catch here. Tom (Kate's son) is sort of replica of Jonathan Thornton. Family resemblance and all.
Back to the review.
Jonathan and Kate feel something for each other but they keep their feelings to themselves as both of them know that there is nothing for them in the future because as far as priorities go, Jonathan's number one priority is his King.
One may wonder, how does their romance stay put?
Here is how.
Though the only times they get chances of being together are in between all the skirmishes and preparations for battle, they remain faithful to each other (unlike other people also mentioned in the novel who only believe fidelity to only to be kept as far as emotions go).
Parliament wins and Jonathan is nothing but a traitor and circumstances demand that he endured self-inflicted exile if he wishes to live. He is no more a free man.
Another catch. When Jonathan finally proposed Kate, she says she will marry him when e will be a free man. She will wait for that day.
While all this plays out, Prescott (a Parliamentarian soldier who hates Jonathan) informs him of his bastard child living in Oxford. He does not know it to be true or otherwise but goes to find the truth of it when he leaves Seven Ways and Kate to live a life in exile. And voila! It is true. He has a daughter who is six years of age.
Not wanting to burden Kate more, he leaves his daughter with an Uncle in London and leaves. And gets caught at the dock and sent to the London Tower.
Having not heard from her love, she seeks out the aforementioned uncle to help her find him as she believes Jonathan to be in trouble. This uncle is also a Parliamentarian but he is Family.
I am not going to give the climax away but it being a Romance there definitely is a Happily Ever After after the reunion which I leave you to find out for yourself.
_____________________________
One amazing thing about this one is the not only the dialogue uses the words more popular during the time but the narrative keeps up with that as well. No modern or fancy words to bring you out of the world that is solely the book's.
October 27, 2016
This is set in an era I don't normally read. It's also a romance, which, in historical fiction, I don't always enjoy. However, the romance element in this book is done really well.
Often, in a romance, the characters annoy me with their misunderstandings, but that was not the case in this one. The action was exciting; there was some violence but it was not unneccesarily bloody, and I turned the pages eagerly.
There is a little sex but it is not gratuitous.
All in all, a good yarn, compelling and very readable. I will be trying another book by this author.
Often, in a romance, the characters annoy me with their misunderstandings, but that was not the case in this one. The action was exciting; there was some violence but it was not unneccesarily bloody, and I turned the pages eagerly.
There is a little sex but it is not gratuitous.
All in all, a good yarn, compelling and very readable. I will be trying another book by this author.
September 7, 2022
If you're looking for a book to draw you into the English Civil War with characters that will capture your heart, look no further! This book kept me enthralled and up late at night reading to find out if Kate and Jonathon would meet their happy ever after.
January 7, 2016
I went into reading this book with much trepidation as I had recently DNF'ed two historicals, both by excellent authors. I thought maybe I was off historicals and I would not enjoy this. Fortunately, that was not the case.
War is a terrible thing and civil war within a country, no matter the reason, is even more so. It splits the country into half and divides the people. Families turns against each other, fathers against sons and brothers against brothers as each take sides based on their individual beliefs.
The setting of By The Sword is one such time, during a civil war in England where Charles II fights to regain his throne against Cromwell.
Alison Stuart delivers a beautiful love story set in a backdrop of a war torn country, where people are tired of war and weighed down by poverty and tragedy. In this midst, Ms Stuart brings history to life, brilliantly told through the lives of Kate and Jonathan. Don't expect a quick journey to the happy ending though. This does not resolve itself over a span of weeks or months, but rather years, as Kate and Jonathan endure the consequences of war.
Kate has lost a great deal to the war and holds no loyalty to monarch or Parliament. She's capable and strong as she manages first one and later two households as the story unfolds, alone, without a man by her side to support her. She's pragmatic in her approach to life even as she longs for peace and the love of a man committed to the war. I echo Giles, when he says "You're a remarkable woman, Kate Ashley."
Jonathan is a wonderful hero. Tired from the war and loss but carrying on due to a strong sense of loyalty and dedication, continuing to fight a losing battle (I promise you this is not a spoiler, it's written in history) because of what he believed in. I love that at one point in the story, his feelings about his death changes as he comes to the realization that there are those who would grieve deeply for him and he wants to live for them. That was a beautiful moment. The things he had to endure before the end of the story broke my heart many times and I wept for him, but through it all, he didn't lose sight of the man that he was.
Alison Stuart did a wonderful job of illustrating what obstacles comes to couples who love during a time of war. The times of separation, the hope that loved ones remain safe and alive, the fleeting, stolen moments when their paths cross for a brief period, and the anxiety when they are apart.
Right through reading this story, I was overwhelmed by the sense of history that I read in the words that were written and had an urge to get to the end as quickly as possible so that I could see Kate and Jonathan have their happy ending. Don't rush it though, this is a story to be savored.
Thank you for writing such an engaging story, Ms Stuart. Well done. I'm looking forward to book 2 and 3.
War is a terrible thing and civil war within a country, no matter the reason, is even more so. It splits the country into half and divides the people. Families turns against each other, fathers against sons and brothers against brothers as each take sides based on their individual beliefs.
The setting of By The Sword is one such time, during a civil war in England where Charles II fights to regain his throne against Cromwell.
Alison Stuart delivers a beautiful love story set in a backdrop of a war torn country, where people are tired of war and weighed down by poverty and tragedy. In this midst, Ms Stuart brings history to life, brilliantly told through the lives of Kate and Jonathan. Don't expect a quick journey to the happy ending though. This does not resolve itself over a span of weeks or months, but rather years, as Kate and Jonathan endure the consequences of war.
Kate has lost a great deal to the war and holds no loyalty to monarch or Parliament. She's capable and strong as she manages first one and later two households as the story unfolds, alone, without a man by her side to support her. She's pragmatic in her approach to life even as she longs for peace and the love of a man committed to the war. I echo Giles, when he says "You're a remarkable woman, Kate Ashley."
Jonathan is a wonderful hero. Tired from the war and loss but carrying on due to a strong sense of loyalty and dedication, continuing to fight a losing battle (I promise you this is not a spoiler, it's written in history) because of what he believed in. I love that at one point in the story, his feelings about his death changes as he comes to the realization that there are those who would grieve deeply for him and he wants to live for them. That was a beautiful moment. The things he had to endure before the end of the story broke my heart many times and I wept for him, but through it all, he didn't lose sight of the man that he was.
Alison Stuart did a wonderful job of illustrating what obstacles comes to couples who love during a time of war. The times of separation, the hope that loved ones remain safe and alive, the fleeting, stolen moments when their paths cross for a brief period, and the anxiety when they are apart.
Right through reading this story, I was overwhelmed by the sense of history that I read in the words that were written and had an urge to get to the end as quickly as possible so that I could see Kate and Jonathan have their happy ending. Don't rush it though, this is a story to be savored.
Thank you for writing such an engaging story, Ms Stuart. Well done. I'm looking forward to book 2 and 3.
November 19, 2013
Well-written Love Story from Cromwell’s England
This was my first by Stuart and it’s a worthy read, a crossover between historical fiction and historical romance. That is, it has enough history to satisfy the historical fiction lover and enough romance (and a happy ever after ending) to make it romance.
Set in Yorkshire beginning in 1650 (the prologue is set in Devon in 1646), during the time when Cromwell ruled England and Charles II was in exile in France, this is the story of Col. Jonathan Thornton, a royalist, and Kate Ashley, whose family followed Cromwell. Kate is mother to 9-year-old Tom (a central character and wonderfully done), and the widow of Jonathan’s cousin, a parliamentary soldier killed in battle. Because Jonathan is a hunted man, and the Ashley family supports Cromwell, the Thornton estate of Seven Ways will go to young Tom, not Jonathan. Kate is none too sure she wants the responsibility of running the rundown estate since she has her own home, but she takes it on nonetheless.
A series of events bring Jon and Kate together and the attraction is instant between them. Jon’s past and his current choices keep them apart, and a Cromwell follower who hates Jon seeks to destroy him. In a well-told story, Stuart weaves an intricate plot that slowly develops so you must be patient to get it all. Her writing is beautiful with vivid descriptions that drew me into this time in England’s history. The story includes the Battle of Worcester in 1651 where the royalists were defeated sending them into hiding and Charles back to exile in Europe.
It’s a story of second chances and living with the consequences of one’s past. The only thing I would have liked to see was some resolution to Charles II’s plight, but perhaps that is coming in future books. The ending seemed like a pause in the action. There is already a second book by the author, THE KING’S MAN. It, too, is based in Cromwell’s time, and tells the story of Kit Lovell, who we meet in BY THE SWORD.
This was my first by Stuart and it’s a worthy read, a crossover between historical fiction and historical romance. That is, it has enough history to satisfy the historical fiction lover and enough romance (and a happy ever after ending) to make it romance.
Set in Yorkshire beginning in 1650 (the prologue is set in Devon in 1646), during the time when Cromwell ruled England and Charles II was in exile in France, this is the story of Col. Jonathan Thornton, a royalist, and Kate Ashley, whose family followed Cromwell. Kate is mother to 9-year-old Tom (a central character and wonderfully done), and the widow of Jonathan’s cousin, a parliamentary soldier killed in battle. Because Jonathan is a hunted man, and the Ashley family supports Cromwell, the Thornton estate of Seven Ways will go to young Tom, not Jonathan. Kate is none too sure she wants the responsibility of running the rundown estate since she has her own home, but she takes it on nonetheless.
A series of events bring Jon and Kate together and the attraction is instant between them. Jon’s past and his current choices keep them apart, and a Cromwell follower who hates Jon seeks to destroy him. In a well-told story, Stuart weaves an intricate plot that slowly develops so you must be patient to get it all. Her writing is beautiful with vivid descriptions that drew me into this time in England’s history. The story includes the Battle of Worcester in 1651 where the royalists were defeated sending them into hiding and Charles back to exile in Europe.
It’s a story of second chances and living with the consequences of one’s past. The only thing I would have liked to see was some resolution to Charles II’s plight, but perhaps that is coming in future books. The ending seemed like a pause in the action. There is already a second book by the author, THE KING’S MAN. It, too, is based in Cromwell’s time, and tells the story of Kit Lovell, who we meet in BY THE SWORD.
April 11, 2015
LOVE Alison Stuart's historical writing! She recreates the period of the English Civil War brilliantly and I felt as though these characters had surely lived through it for real. It's the absolute understanding of the period and daily life peppered throughout the story that makes your heart ache for this couple who struggle to survive and love in a time when families were torn apart for 'the cause'. The power of Ms Stuart's writing is also in how much I cared about what happened to the characters. Eagerly awaiting her next book!
November 26, 2024
4.5/5⭐️
The reason I’ve had this on my Kindle over a year is because I purchased it on an author’s backlist that I discovered and really like. Glad I did because I liked this first in series and plan to continue with the next one.
Set in 1650 England our heroine Kate is a widow with a son who takes him to meet his father’s family they had never met because of a family falling out. When the patriarch dies, she is left in control of the family estate for her minor child. She faces greedy neighbors, a declining property and political plays as she is a loyal Parliamentarian and the family are Royalists.
She meets the mysterious and charming Jonathan, the black sheep of the family who is hiding a dangerous occupation underneath his easygoing facade. They are drawn to each other, but can they survive the political intrigues and government upheaval around them and start anew?
This was a well written and well plotted book with engaging characters who kept me invested in the story.
The reason I’ve had this on my Kindle over a year is because I purchased it on an author’s backlist that I discovered and really like. Glad I did because I liked this first in series and plan to continue with the next one.
Set in 1650 England our heroine Kate is a widow with a son who takes him to meet his father’s family they had never met because of a family falling out. When the patriarch dies, she is left in control of the family estate for her minor child. She faces greedy neighbors, a declining property and political plays as she is a loyal Parliamentarian and the family are Royalists.
She meets the mysterious and charming Jonathan, the black sheep of the family who is hiding a dangerous occupation underneath his easygoing facade. They are drawn to each other, but can they survive the political intrigues and government upheaval around them and start anew?
This was a well written and well plotted book with engaging characters who kept me invested in the story.
July 26, 2025
A Surprisingly Great Read
I chose this book as a change of pace from my usual reads and am so pleased.thanks to It is reminiscent of a past PBS series, Poldark, that I loved. The strength of character of Kate is inspirational, and the courage and turn around from his youth for her new love shines through. Many emotional scenes but as stated by Alison, life was like that in the real war torn England.
I chose this book as a change of pace from my usual reads and am so pleased.thanks to It is reminiscent of a past PBS series, Poldark, that I loved. The strength of character of Kate is inspirational, and the courage and turn around from his youth for her new love shines through. Many emotional scenes but as stated by Alison, life was like that in the real war torn England.
January 27, 2016
In this English Civil War story, widow Kate Ashley is contacted by her husband’s estranged family who wish to name her young son as heir to the family estate, Seven Ways. However, the estate is financially floundering due to taxes imposed on the family for being Royalists. Kate’s husband died fighting for the Parliamentarians but she has no love for either side she just wants to raise her son in peace.
When Kate meets the real heir to Seven Ways, the outlawed Jonathon Thornton, she is immediately taken by the man who has willingly given up his birth right to protect the family’s home. He has pledged himself to the young King Charles II, even knowing he is on the losing side. How can they ever be together?
I loved this story for its tender moments, its battle scenes, and the way Stuart seamlessly weaves in the historical events of the time. The long periods where hero and heroine are kept apart didn’t bother me in the reading of it, so kudos to Ms Stuart for her wonderful writing style. If you love a good historical with sweet, passionate moments and plenty of danger you will enjoy this book.
When Kate meets the real heir to Seven Ways, the outlawed Jonathon Thornton, she is immediately taken by the man who has willingly given up his birth right to protect the family’s home. He has pledged himself to the young King Charles II, even knowing he is on the losing side. How can they ever be together?
I loved this story for its tender moments, its battle scenes, and the way Stuart seamlessly weaves in the historical events of the time. The long periods where hero and heroine are kept apart didn’t bother me in the reading of it, so kudos to Ms Stuart for her wonderful writing style. If you love a good historical with sweet, passionate moments and plenty of danger you will enjoy this book.
February 27, 2015
By the Sword is Alison Stuart's first novel and is set for a re-release in March of this year. Although I have known Alison for some time (Hoydens and Firebrands), I had never before read any of her books until now.There were tender, poignant scenes between parent and child, and Stuart's story was beautifully woven into historical events, such as the Battle of Worcester, which is in the middle of the book. The battle scenes were as good as the love scenes, and Stuart has the talent to depict both realistically and compellingly. In the last quarter of the book, we're introduced to several new characters including baddie John Thurloe and the unforgettably nice Aunt Henrietta. Ultimately, this book had me turning the pages - I was so eager to know what happened to Jonathan and Kate. This was a beautiful, well-written journey back in time and I loved it.
December 31, 2012
Oh, I loved this story. Kate Ashley is one tough, passionate lady, full of compassion, love and integrity. Jonathan Thornton is tough, charismatic, and a perfect match for Kate - if only civil war could allow them to be together. The children in this story are brilliant characters - and I'm not often taken by the kids in stories :)
Alison Stuart writes a rich story, which kept me enthralled. I'll be looking for more.
Alison Stuart writes a rich story, which kept me enthralled. I'll be looking for more.
January 2, 2017
4.5 stars. I enjoyed this book very much. The first time I have read about the civil war in England and it was really interesting. The story was excellent, quite long and obviously very well planned and it kept me guessing. The characters were well developed. I have just started reading "The King's Man" (the next book in the series) and intend to read all all this author's back-list. I'm also really pleased to find out that she's a fellow Aussie !
October 25, 2019
This was an OK book but nothing more. The historical backdrop was well woven into the story and, not knowing a lot about this part of the English Civil War, I learned a fair bit. However, the fictional characters were too conventional, flat and uninteresting. Towards the end I slightly warmed up to the male MC but overall they were all just paper cut-outs. I don't know if I'll read any of her other books, probably not.
March 5, 2015
BY THE SWORD by Alison Stuart is a stunning historical romance that will entertain you until the very last page! Ms Stuart’s impressive characters, moving plot and dramatic prose captures your full attention and leaves you utterly captivated as she whisks you away to a time that once brimmed with unreserved drama.
Highly Recommended
5/5 stars
Highly Recommended
5/5 stars
Read
March 29, 2015DNF at 19%. I'm just not feeling it.
The heroine is a total doormat, and the hero is recklessly exposing her and her nine year old son to serious danger, for no real reason. (He says his papers are good so there's no risk of him travelling with them, but he also says he needs to travel with them so he won't be suspected, so clearly his papers aren't that damn good).
The heroine is a total doormat, and the hero is recklessly exposing her and her nine year old son to serious danger, for no real reason. (He says his papers are good so there's no risk of him travelling with them, but he also says he needs to travel with them so he won't be suspected, so clearly his papers aren't that damn good).
September 24, 2020
Exciting, pacey and rich in historical atmosphere - a compelling and addictive read.
June 7, 2025
England, 1650. After the execution of Charles I in 1649, England is again on the verge of civil war. The Parliamentary forces are led by Oliver Cromwell, while the Royalists fight in support of Charles II.
In this novel, Ms Stuart combines adventure and romance as Kate Ashley, a widow on the Parliamentary side, becomes responsible for a Royalist estate. Kate receives a letter from Sir Francis Thornton, her nine-year-old son Thomas’s paternal great grandfather, asking her and Thomas to visit. While the Thornton and Ashley families have been estranged for many years, Kate accepts the invitation after Thomas expresses interest in meeting his great grandfather.
Sir Francis’s grandson Jonathan, a supporter of Charles II, makes a clandestine visit to ‘Seven Ways’ while Kate and Thomas are visiting. He and Thomas get on well and Kate finds him intriguing. After the visit, which goes well, Thomas is named as heir to Sir Francis’s estate, ‘Seven Ways’. This is seen as the only way that ‘Seven Ways’ can be kept out of Parliamentary hands.
Sir Francis dies. The fighting continues. Kate works hard to look after ‘Seven Ways’. And her path crosses again with Jonathan.
While romance interests me less than adventure, the story drew me in. Aspects of Jonathan’s story were a little too dramatic for my taste, but the entire story portrayed the uncertainties experienced by many during the Interregnum. Jonathan’s past added some complicating factors, and I started to wonder whether there could ever be a happy ending. Kate was my favourite character: I admired her competence and courage.
This book is the first in a series and I am hoping to lay my hands on the remainder.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
In this novel, Ms Stuart combines adventure and romance as Kate Ashley, a widow on the Parliamentary side, becomes responsible for a Royalist estate. Kate receives a letter from Sir Francis Thornton, her nine-year-old son Thomas’s paternal great grandfather, asking her and Thomas to visit. While the Thornton and Ashley families have been estranged for many years, Kate accepts the invitation after Thomas expresses interest in meeting his great grandfather.
Sir Francis’s grandson Jonathan, a supporter of Charles II, makes a clandestine visit to ‘Seven Ways’ while Kate and Thomas are visiting. He and Thomas get on well and Kate finds him intriguing. After the visit, which goes well, Thomas is named as heir to Sir Francis’s estate, ‘Seven Ways’. This is seen as the only way that ‘Seven Ways’ can be kept out of Parliamentary hands.
Sir Francis dies. The fighting continues. Kate works hard to look after ‘Seven Ways’. And her path crosses again with Jonathan.
While romance interests me less than adventure, the story drew me in. Aspects of Jonathan’s story were a little too dramatic for my taste, but the entire story portrayed the uncertainties experienced by many during the Interregnum. Jonathan’s past added some complicating factors, and I started to wonder whether there could ever be a happy ending. Kate was my favourite character: I admired her competence and courage.
This book is the first in a series and I am hoping to lay my hands on the remainder.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
June 6, 2017
Kate Ashley and her son have been summoned to the home of her husband's elderly relative. The family have been estranged for years. It didn't help that they were on opposite sides in the war. Her husband died fighting for the Roundheads. His maternal grandfather still supports the displaced king.
With King Charles still trying to reclaim his crown anyone known to support him is under suspicion.
Sir Jonathon Thornton has a price on his head and cannot be found on English soil. He also knows he cannot possibly inherit his family home from his ailing grandfather.
Civil war tears families apart. Loyalties are tested to the limit.
Our heroine has no good reason to want to help those who abandoned her husband's mother all those years ago, but she must do what is best for her son. With Cromwell's officers often acting only in their own interests the danger is high for everyone.
How can this be anything but a doomed romance? With lots of political intrigue, emotion and danger. This will give you an idea of what must have happened in many of the households of that time. A fascinating read.
With King Charles still trying to reclaim his crown anyone known to support him is under suspicion.
Sir Jonathon Thornton has a price on his head and cannot be found on English soil. He also knows he cannot possibly inherit his family home from his ailing grandfather.
Civil war tears families apart. Loyalties are tested to the limit.
Our heroine has no good reason to want to help those who abandoned her husband's mother all those years ago, but she must do what is best for her son. With Cromwell's officers often acting only in their own interests the danger is high for everyone.
How can this be anything but a doomed romance? With lots of political intrigue, emotion and danger. This will give you an idea of what must have happened in many of the households of that time. A fascinating read.
November 19, 2025
By the Sword by Alison Stuart is a historical romance set during England's Civil War, focusing on the spirited Kate Ashley, who must protect a Royalist estate despite her Parliamentarian background. Jonathan Thornton, a hunted Royalist, becomes both her ally and romantic interest, yet their love is repeatedly tested by war, secrets, and divided loyalties.
The strongest aspect of the book, for me, is its historical atmosphere: the author’s descriptions of daily life, the battles, and the era’s turmoil make the setting feel authentic and compelling. Kate’s resilience and Jonathan’s sense of duty—along with a cast of characters whose loyalties are constantly tested—kept me invested in their outcome. While some decisions by the characters can be frustrating, I found their imperfections added to the realism and drama of their situation.
The strongest aspect of the book, for me, is its historical atmosphere: the author’s descriptions of daily life, the battles, and the era’s turmoil make the setting feel authentic and compelling. Kate’s resilience and Jonathan’s sense of duty—along with a cast of characters whose loyalties are constantly tested—kept me invested in their outcome. While some decisions by the characters can be frustrating, I found their imperfections added to the realism and drama of their situation.
November 16, 2025
A captivating historical romance set in 1650s England, the time of the English Civil War. Young widow Kate is summoned to the house of her deceased husband's estranged family where her son is named heir to the Seven Ways - a move to keep the estate out of the hands of the Parliamentarians.
At the estate, Kate meets Jonathan Thornton, a staunch Royalist, and sparks fly. However, circumstances do their best to keep the two apart, with Kate trying her best to keep and defend Seven Ways and Jonathan in exile fighting for the king.
Will they ever have their happy ending?
By the Sword provides an intriguing glimpse into a vicious time in England's history. It is a perfectly fascinating way to escape reality for a few hours.
At the estate, Kate meets Jonathan Thornton, a staunch Royalist, and sparks fly. However, circumstances do their best to keep the two apart, with Kate trying her best to keep and defend Seven Ways and Jonathan in exile fighting for the king.
Will they ever have their happy ending?
By the Sword provides an intriguing glimpse into a vicious time in England's history. It is a perfectly fascinating way to escape reality for a few hours.
October 7, 2023
Excellent!
Seems silly to call this a rollercoaster ride, given the era, but it's an apt description. Tense from start to finish, barely staying a step out of Cromwell's reach, it just didn't let up.
Given the nonstop danger, the happy ending was a welcome relief.
Seems silly to call this a rollercoaster ride, given the era, but it's an apt description. Tense from start to finish, barely staying a step out of Cromwell's reach, it just didn't let up.
Given the nonstop danger, the happy ending was a welcome relief.
October 29, 2023
Sexy spy , well yes.
Loved this time period in history. Factual and felt real. Characters were likable and others very easy to hate. Twists enough to keep my interest but not so many as to loose me on the journey.
Loved this time period in history. Factual and felt real. Characters were likable and others very easy to hate. Twists enough to keep my interest but not so many as to loose me on the journey.
October 10, 2019
Historical romantic fluff. Just right for holiday reading. :)
December 28, 2019
Interesting historical fiction about a period of history I wasn’t very familiar with—the English Civil War. A bit boring in parts.
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