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Lady of Lincoln: A Novel of Nicola de la Haye, the Medieval Heroine History Tried to Forget
Not yet published
Expected 27 Feb 26**WINNER OF THE BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARD (2025)** and Gold Medal Winner, Biographical Historical Fiction, the Coffee Pot Book Club
**GOLD MEDAL WINNER** Bronte Award, the Historical Fiction Company
A true story. A forgotten heroine. In a time when women were told to stay silent, could she become the saviour her people need?
12th-century England. Nicola de la Haye wants to do her duty. But though she’s taught a female cannot lead alone, the young noblewoman bristles at the marriage her father has arranged to secure her inheritance. And when an unexpected death leaves her unguided, the impetuous girl shuns the king’s blessing and weds a handsome-but-landless knight.
Harshly fined by Henry II for her unsanctioned union, Nicola struggles to salvage her estates while dealing with devastating betrayals from her husband… and his choice to join rebels in a brewing civil war. Yet after averting a tragedy and gaining the castle garrison’s respect, she still must face the might of powerful men determined to crush her under their will.
Can she survive love, threats, and violent ambition to prove she’s worthy of authority?
In this carefully researched and vividly human series debut, Rachel Elwiss Joyce showcases the complex themes of honour, responsibility, and freedom in the story of a remarkable heroine who men tried to erase from history. And as readers dive into a world defined by violence and turmoil, they’ll be stunned by this courageous young woman’s journey toward greatness.
Lady of Lincoln is the gritty first book in the Nicola de la Haye Series historical fiction saga. If you like richly textured female heroes, courtly drama, and fast-paced intrigue, then you’ll adore Rachel Elwiss Joyce’s gripping true-life tale.
Buy Lady of Lincoln to celebrate ‘the woman who saved England’ today!
PRAISE FOR Lady of Lincoln
★★★★★ “A towering, epic saga… one of the greats in this genre.”
— Readers’ Favorite
★★★★★ “Profoundly moving… Nicola de la Haye shines with determination and emotional depth.”
— The Coffee Pot Book Club
★★★★½ “An extraordinary book that shows a woman successfully overcoming the constraints of her time… with wits, will, and an unbreakable spirit.”
— The Historical Fiction Company
★★★★★ “A gripping tale of bravery, loyalty, and defiance… richly researched and unforgettable.”
— Readers’ Favorite
“Joyce’s rich characterization unfolds against a vivid, meticulously researched historical backdrop… a gripping account of courage amid the brutal realities of civil war.”
— BlueInk Review, Highly Acclaimed Starred Review (Highest Distinction)
"Joyce’s attention to detail immerses readers in the period while providing authenticity, and real historical figures like King Henry II and Prince John add depth, their interactions set against political chaos and dynastic maneuverings.
**GOLD MEDAL WINNER** Bronte Award, the Historical Fiction Company
A true story. A forgotten heroine. In a time when women were told to stay silent, could she become the saviour her people need?
12th-century England. Nicola de la Haye wants to do her duty. But though she’s taught a female cannot lead alone, the young noblewoman bristles at the marriage her father has arranged to secure her inheritance. And when an unexpected death leaves her unguided, the impetuous girl shuns the king’s blessing and weds a handsome-but-landless knight.
Harshly fined by Henry II for her unsanctioned union, Nicola struggles to salvage her estates while dealing with devastating betrayals from her husband… and his choice to join rebels in a brewing civil war. Yet after averting a tragedy and gaining the castle garrison’s respect, she still must face the might of powerful men determined to crush her under their will.
Can she survive love, threats, and violent ambition to prove she’s worthy of authority?
In this carefully researched and vividly human series debut, Rachel Elwiss Joyce showcases the complex themes of honour, responsibility, and freedom in the story of a remarkable heroine who men tried to erase from history. And as readers dive into a world defined by violence and turmoil, they’ll be stunned by this courageous young woman’s journey toward greatness.
Lady of Lincoln is the gritty first book in the Nicola de la Haye Series historical fiction saga. If you like richly textured female heroes, courtly drama, and fast-paced intrigue, then you’ll adore Rachel Elwiss Joyce’s gripping true-life tale.
Buy Lady of Lincoln to celebrate ‘the woman who saved England’ today!
PRAISE FOR Lady of Lincoln
★★★★★ “A towering, epic saga… one of the greats in this genre.”
— Readers’ Favorite
★★★★★ “Profoundly moving… Nicola de la Haye shines with determination and emotional depth.”
— The Coffee Pot Book Club
★★★★½ “An extraordinary book that shows a woman successfully overcoming the constraints of her time… with wits, will, and an unbreakable spirit.”
— The Historical Fiction Company
★★★★★ “A gripping tale of bravery, loyalty, and defiance… richly researched and unforgettable.”
— Readers’ Favorite
“Joyce’s rich characterization unfolds against a vivid, meticulously researched historical backdrop… a gripping account of courage amid the brutal realities of civil war.”
— BlueInk Review, Highly Acclaimed Starred Review (Highest Distinction)
"Joyce’s attention to detail immerses readers in the period while providing authenticity, and real historical figures like King Henry II and Prince John add depth, their interactions set against political chaos and dynastic maneuverings.
493 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 27, 2026
3 people are currently reading
14 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received this book from the author as an ARC in exchange for a review.
I got completely invested in this book and Nicola (the main character). Despite her young age, the experiences she endured (mainly at the hands of men who thought she should be controlled or exploited) were incredible.
When I kept reminding myself of her age, it made me me appreciate just how strong and feisty she had to become as she endured all those things.
The fact that it is based on actual historical facts made it even better, as it wasn’t strictly the imagination of the author, but her well researched and written narrative.
I got completely invested in this book and Nicola (the main character). Despite her young age, the experiences she endured (mainly at the hands of men who thought she should be controlled or exploited) were incredible.
When I kept reminding myself of her age, it made me me appreciate just how strong and feisty she had to become as she endured all those things.
The fact that it is based on actual historical facts made it even better, as it wasn’t strictly the imagination of the author, but her well researched and written narrative.
November 13, 2025
She raised her chin. She was Nicola de la Haye, Baroness of Brattleby, King’s Constable of Lincoln Castle: the woman she was destined to be. Whatever God had in store for her—today, or in the years to come—she would face it.
If a man could do it, so could she.
Nicola de la Haye is a spirited young woman who dreams of a love-filled marriage, one that transcends mere obligation or familial pressure. Her father, deeply entrenched in the traditions of their noble lineage, insists that she should accept the courtship of Gerard de Camville, a man of considerable wealth and influence. However, Nicola's heart belongs to another — the charming William FitzErneis. She wants a life filled with passion and genuine affection, rather than the cold comfort of an arranged union.
Caught between her father's expectations and her own desires, Nicola is determined to follow her heart, but she did not expect the great cost that loving William FitzErneis would demand.
"Lady of Lincoln," authored by Rachel Elwiss Joyce, is a profoundly moving debut novel that weaves a tale of heartbreak and resilience.
Joyce’s portrayal of Nicola de la Haye is strikingly vivid and captivating, skilfully bringing to life the remarkable story of a woman whose legacy has been overshadowed by her male counterparts. Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous late 12th and early 13th centuries, this story not only illuminates Nicola's extraordinary life but also sheds light on the broader societal attitudes toward women during this period.
As a spirited fourteen-year-old, Nicola does not conform to the expectations traditionally placed upon her gender. Instead of pursuing embroidery or courtly etiquette, she harbours a fierce desire to master the art of combat, especially with the bow. Her youthful imagination brims with grand visions of romance and chivalry, yet as she matures, she realises the mistakes of losing her heart to the first beautiful man who captures her eye. Marrying for love, rather than accepting the man her father has chosen, has dire consequences, not only for herself but also for her vassals and villeins. The romantic notions of girlhood give way very quickly to a steadfast commitment to safeguarding her ancestral lands. With an indomitable spirit, Nicola tackles the complexities of leadership, driven by a profound sense of duty to protect not only her territories but also the well-being of all those who depend on her strength and resolve. Throughout her journey, she embodies a remarkable duality: the dreams and aspirations of a youthful girl intertwined with the unyielding determination of a capable leader. Her character, rich with depth and nuance, emerges as a compelling heroine worthy of admiration, inspiring readers to recognise the often-overlooked contributions of women throughout history.
William FitzErneis is a captivating and charming figure, renowned for his striking good looks and his effortless ability to enchant the ladies. However, beneath his magnetic exterior lies a man driven by desperation; he must secure a marriage with a wealthy heiress, not only to liberate himself from the oppressive grasp of his tyrannical brother but also to alleviate the burden of his substantial debts. At first glance, FitzErneis can easily be cast as the unlikable villain; he presents himself as a suave charmer, masking his true intentions. He skilfully deceives Nicola, and his mismanagement of her finances leads to a cascade of hardships, not only for Nicola herself but also for the various families who depend on his erratic leadership and poor decisions. Constantly searching for innovative ways to bolster his dwindling income, William often drags Nicola into his dubious schemes, such as befriending Rosamund Clifford, the notorious mistress of King Henry II, in hopes of gaining favour and financial advantage through her connections. Yet, as the narrative unfolds, the layers of FitzErneis’ character begin to reveal themselves. Despite his financial irresponsibility and his sordid entanglements, he and Nicola discover a genuine affection for one another. This evolving relationship adds depth to his character, making him increasingly complex and not as easily dismissible as he was at the outset of the tale. As the story progresses, readers witness a transformation in their perceptions, blurring the lines between villainy and redemption.
Gerard de Camville is depicted as a man of great honour and integrity, earning the respect of Nicola's father, who views him as a worthy suitor. He is seen as a reliable protector, not only for Nicola if he were to marry her but also for the entire estate and its inhabitants, all of whom depend on his stewardship. In a world where allegiances shift like sand, Gerard stands out as a beacon of stability, embodying gentleness and kindness in all his actions. His unwavering determination to capture Nicola's heart is clearly reflected in his attentive demeanour. He pays close attention to the subtle nuances of her character, noting her deep appreciation for nature—she thrives in the vibrant expanse of the great outdoors rather than being confined to the warmth of a cosy fireside, where she would find herself engaged in tedious needlework. Nicola, in her youthful innocence and relative naivety, can only see the substantial age difference between them. To her, he is merely an older man, a notion that blinds her to the depth of his affection. This limited perspective, shaped by her youthful ideals of love and attraction, ultimately leads her to a painful realisation—a revelation that comes too late, after she has committed herself to William.
Joyce's portrayal of the era is masterfully crafted, capturing the intricate dynamics of power and conflict. The tumultuous relationship between King Henry II and Thomas Becket stands at the forefront, highlighting the tension between royal authority and ecclesiastical power. Additionally, Henry's unprecedented decision to name his son as heir while still occupying the throne sets the stage for deep divisions within the kingdom. This audacious move not only signals a shift in the balance of power but also foreshadows the turmoil that will arise as loyalties shift and factions form, painting a vivid picture of a realm on the brink of chaos.
In her extensive research on this captivating medieval era, Joyce expertly brings to life the intricacies of the time through her shimmering prose and compelling narrative style. Her dedication is evident in the way she vividly portrays not just the opulent lives of the nobility, but also the struggles and triumphs of ordinary men and women. With a careful, nuanced touch, she repeatedly addresses the plight of the Jewish community, shedding light on their unique challenges and resilience during a time marked by profound social and political upheaval. Each page is a testament to her commitment to portraying the richness of this historical period and the diverse experiences within it.
Joyce has masterfully captured the devastating truths of warfare, intricately detailing the anguish experienced during brutal sieges. Her writing immerses the reader, vividly portraying scenes saturated with chaos and despair. The impact of dysentery ravaging the camp is palpable, as the stench of illness permeates the air and weakens the spirits of the weary soldiers. The cruelty faced by prisoners is heart-wrenching, with their suffering starkly illustrated through haunting imagery. One particularly harrowing scene that stands out involves the grim fate of children, who are tragically hanged—a moment that delivers a jarring shock and proves profoundly difficult to digest. This portrayal fosters a deep sense of sorrow and reflection on the horrors of conflict.
Joyce’s vivid prose and masterful storytelling immerse the reader deeply into the emotional landscapes of her protagonists, making their struggles and triumphs resonate long after the final page has been turned. This debut is not only impressive in its narrative depth but also remarkable in its ability to evoke thought and reflection long after the final page is turned.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde
The Coffee Pot Book Club
If a man could do it, so could she.
Nicola de la Haye is a spirited young woman who dreams of a love-filled marriage, one that transcends mere obligation or familial pressure. Her father, deeply entrenched in the traditions of their noble lineage, insists that she should accept the courtship of Gerard de Camville, a man of considerable wealth and influence. However, Nicola's heart belongs to another — the charming William FitzErneis. She wants a life filled with passion and genuine affection, rather than the cold comfort of an arranged union.
Caught between her father's expectations and her own desires, Nicola is determined to follow her heart, but she did not expect the great cost that loving William FitzErneis would demand.
"Lady of Lincoln," authored by Rachel Elwiss Joyce, is a profoundly moving debut novel that weaves a tale of heartbreak and resilience.
Joyce’s portrayal of Nicola de la Haye is strikingly vivid and captivating, skilfully bringing to life the remarkable story of a woman whose legacy has been overshadowed by her male counterparts. Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous late 12th and early 13th centuries, this story not only illuminates Nicola's extraordinary life but also sheds light on the broader societal attitudes toward women during this period.
As a spirited fourteen-year-old, Nicola does not conform to the expectations traditionally placed upon her gender. Instead of pursuing embroidery or courtly etiquette, she harbours a fierce desire to master the art of combat, especially with the bow. Her youthful imagination brims with grand visions of romance and chivalry, yet as she matures, she realises the mistakes of losing her heart to the first beautiful man who captures her eye. Marrying for love, rather than accepting the man her father has chosen, has dire consequences, not only for herself but also for her vassals and villeins. The romantic notions of girlhood give way very quickly to a steadfast commitment to safeguarding her ancestral lands. With an indomitable spirit, Nicola tackles the complexities of leadership, driven by a profound sense of duty to protect not only her territories but also the well-being of all those who depend on her strength and resolve. Throughout her journey, she embodies a remarkable duality: the dreams and aspirations of a youthful girl intertwined with the unyielding determination of a capable leader. Her character, rich with depth and nuance, emerges as a compelling heroine worthy of admiration, inspiring readers to recognise the often-overlooked contributions of women throughout history.
William FitzErneis is a captivating and charming figure, renowned for his striking good looks and his effortless ability to enchant the ladies. However, beneath his magnetic exterior lies a man driven by desperation; he must secure a marriage with a wealthy heiress, not only to liberate himself from the oppressive grasp of his tyrannical brother but also to alleviate the burden of his substantial debts. At first glance, FitzErneis can easily be cast as the unlikable villain; he presents himself as a suave charmer, masking his true intentions. He skilfully deceives Nicola, and his mismanagement of her finances leads to a cascade of hardships, not only for Nicola herself but also for the various families who depend on his erratic leadership and poor decisions. Constantly searching for innovative ways to bolster his dwindling income, William often drags Nicola into his dubious schemes, such as befriending Rosamund Clifford, the notorious mistress of King Henry II, in hopes of gaining favour and financial advantage through her connections. Yet, as the narrative unfolds, the layers of FitzErneis’ character begin to reveal themselves. Despite his financial irresponsibility and his sordid entanglements, he and Nicola discover a genuine affection for one another. This evolving relationship adds depth to his character, making him increasingly complex and not as easily dismissible as he was at the outset of the tale. As the story progresses, readers witness a transformation in their perceptions, blurring the lines between villainy and redemption.
Gerard de Camville is depicted as a man of great honour and integrity, earning the respect of Nicola's father, who views him as a worthy suitor. He is seen as a reliable protector, not only for Nicola if he were to marry her but also for the entire estate and its inhabitants, all of whom depend on his stewardship. In a world where allegiances shift like sand, Gerard stands out as a beacon of stability, embodying gentleness and kindness in all his actions. His unwavering determination to capture Nicola's heart is clearly reflected in his attentive demeanour. He pays close attention to the subtle nuances of her character, noting her deep appreciation for nature—she thrives in the vibrant expanse of the great outdoors rather than being confined to the warmth of a cosy fireside, where she would find herself engaged in tedious needlework. Nicola, in her youthful innocence and relative naivety, can only see the substantial age difference between them. To her, he is merely an older man, a notion that blinds her to the depth of his affection. This limited perspective, shaped by her youthful ideals of love and attraction, ultimately leads her to a painful realisation—a revelation that comes too late, after she has committed herself to William.
Joyce's portrayal of the era is masterfully crafted, capturing the intricate dynamics of power and conflict. The tumultuous relationship between King Henry II and Thomas Becket stands at the forefront, highlighting the tension between royal authority and ecclesiastical power. Additionally, Henry's unprecedented decision to name his son as heir while still occupying the throne sets the stage for deep divisions within the kingdom. This audacious move not only signals a shift in the balance of power but also foreshadows the turmoil that will arise as loyalties shift and factions form, painting a vivid picture of a realm on the brink of chaos.
In her extensive research on this captivating medieval era, Joyce expertly brings to life the intricacies of the time through her shimmering prose and compelling narrative style. Her dedication is evident in the way she vividly portrays not just the opulent lives of the nobility, but also the struggles and triumphs of ordinary men and women. With a careful, nuanced touch, she repeatedly addresses the plight of the Jewish community, shedding light on their unique challenges and resilience during a time marked by profound social and political upheaval. Each page is a testament to her commitment to portraying the richness of this historical period and the diverse experiences within it.
Joyce has masterfully captured the devastating truths of warfare, intricately detailing the anguish experienced during brutal sieges. Her writing immerses the reader, vividly portraying scenes saturated with chaos and despair. The impact of dysentery ravaging the camp is palpable, as the stench of illness permeates the air and weakens the spirits of the weary soldiers. The cruelty faced by prisoners is heart-wrenching, with their suffering starkly illustrated through haunting imagery. One particularly harrowing scene that stands out involves the grim fate of children, who are tragically hanged—a moment that delivers a jarring shock and proves profoundly difficult to digest. This portrayal fosters a deep sense of sorrow and reflection on the horrors of conflict.
Joyce’s vivid prose and masterful storytelling immerse the reader deeply into the emotional landscapes of her protagonists, making their struggles and triumphs resonate long after the final page has been turned. This debut is not only impressive in its narrative depth but also remarkable in its ability to evoke thought and reflection long after the final page is turned.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde
The Coffee Pot Book Club
January 8, 2026
Lady of Lincoln is a richly researched and emotionally resonant work of biographical historical fiction that restores a formidable medieval woman to the historical record. Rachel Elwiss Joyce brings Nicola de la Haye vividly to life, presenting her as a young noblewoman forced to navigate power, loyalty, and survival in 12th century England a world determined to deny women authority.
The novel traces Nicola’s evolution from dutiful daughter to resolute leader with care and nuance. Her unsanctioned marriage, harsh punishment by King Henry II, and the betrayal she suffers at the hands of her husband create a narrative filled with tension and moral complexity. Nicola’s struggle to defend her inheritance and command respect in a male dominated society is portrayed with authenticity and emotional depth, making her rise to authority feel earned rather than idealized.
Joyce excels at blending historical accuracy with compelling storytelling. Political unrest, civil war, and the presence of real historical figures including Henry II and Prince John are seamlessly integrated into the narrative without overshadowing its human core. The brutality and instability of the era heighten the stakes, while Nicola’s resilience and intelligence anchor the story in character driven realism.
Lady of Lincoln stands out as a gritty, immersive debut and a powerful introduction to the Nicola de la Haye series. With its exploration of honour, responsibility, and female autonomy, this novel will strongly appeal to readers who value historically grounded fiction with complex, courageous heroines.
The novel traces Nicola’s evolution from dutiful daughter to resolute leader with care and nuance. Her unsanctioned marriage, harsh punishment by King Henry II, and the betrayal she suffers at the hands of her husband create a narrative filled with tension and moral complexity. Nicola’s struggle to defend her inheritance and command respect in a male dominated society is portrayed with authenticity and emotional depth, making her rise to authority feel earned rather than idealized.
Joyce excels at blending historical accuracy with compelling storytelling. Political unrest, civil war, and the presence of real historical figures including Henry II and Prince John are seamlessly integrated into the narrative without overshadowing its human core. The brutality and instability of the era heighten the stakes, while Nicola’s resilience and intelligence anchor the story in character driven realism.
Lady of Lincoln stands out as a gritty, immersive debut and a powerful introduction to the Nicola de la Haye series. With its exploration of honour, responsibility, and female autonomy, this novel will strongly appeal to readers who value historically grounded fiction with complex, courageous heroines.
Read
January 9, 2026Lady of Lincoln is a commanding and beautifully realized work of historical fiction that restores a forgotten heroine to her rightful place in history. Rachel Elwiss Joyce brings Nicola de la Haye vividly to life, portraying her not as a mythic symbol, but as a deeply human woman navigating power, love, betrayal, and responsibility in a world determined to silence her.
What makes this novel exceptional is its balance of meticulous historical research with emotional immediacy. Nicola’s struggle to claim authority in a violently patriarchal society is rendered with nuance and intensity, and her evolution from an impetuous young noblewoman into a formidable leader feels both earned and inspiring. The political intrigue, courtly drama, and civil war tensions create a relentless pace without ever overshadowing Nicola’s interior strength.
Joyce’s prose captures the brutality and instability of 12th-century England while centering the quiet, often invisible courage of women who shaped history from the margins. Lady of Lincoln is not just a story of survival, it is a reclamation. A gripping, powerful novel that deserves its accolades and will resonate deeply with readers who crave richly textured female-driven historical fiction.
What makes this novel exceptional is its balance of meticulous historical research with emotional immediacy. Nicola’s struggle to claim authority in a violently patriarchal society is rendered with nuance and intensity, and her evolution from an impetuous young noblewoman into a formidable leader feels both earned and inspiring. The political intrigue, courtly drama, and civil war tensions create a relentless pace without ever overshadowing Nicola’s interior strength.
Joyce’s prose captures the brutality and instability of 12th-century England while centering the quiet, often invisible courage of women who shaped history from the margins. Lady of Lincoln is not just a story of survival, it is a reclamation. A gripping, powerful novel that deserves its accolades and will resonate deeply with readers who crave richly textured female-driven historical fiction.
Read
January 6, 2026Lady of Lincoln is a striking and deeply moving work of historical fiction that restores Nicola de la Haye to her rightful place in history. Rachel Elwiss Joyce brings this forgotten medieval heroine vividly to life, crafting a narrative that is both emotionally resonant and meticulously researched. Nicola’s journey shaped by duty, defiance, and quiet resilience unfolds with a realism that immerses the reader in the brutal uncertainties of 12th century England.
What makes this novel exceptional is its balance of grit and grace. The political tension, personal betrayals, and moral complexities are rendered with sensitivity and power, while Nicola’s inner strength anchors the story. Joyce’s portrayal challenges historical erasure and gives readers a heroine whose courage feels timeless. Lady of Lincoln is not only a compelling story, but an act of historical reclamation that lingers long after the final page.
What makes this novel exceptional is its balance of grit and grace. The political tension, personal betrayals, and moral complexities are rendered with sensitivity and power, while Nicola’s inner strength anchors the story. Joyce’s portrayal challenges historical erasure and gives readers a heroine whose courage feels timeless. Lady of Lincoln is not only a compelling story, but an act of historical reclamation that lingers long after the final page.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. I'm not very familiar with Norman English history so it was very interesting from an historical.point of view as well as being a great story that must have been very unusual at the time. I loved the details about the smells of markets moats and life in general and the role of the jewish community in Norman England all which added authenticity. I like a fairly fast pace in a book and so this story with quite short chapters moving from one part of the plot to another suited me well. There are some historical words that the kindle dictionary didn't cover but Google does. A great read
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews