Where Angels Camp - by Dianne Christner A Legend of Mercy - by Pamela Griffin The Stranger’s Kiss - by Yvonne Lehman A Kingdom Divided - by Tracie Peterson Alas, My Love - by Tracie Peterson A Child of Promise by Jill Stengl
Take six romantic adventures back in time to the Middle Ages along with five authors including Tracie Peterson, who tell the stories of couples challenged by the injustices of their times. Some couples are pulled apart by wars and feuds, while others have their futures determined by their oppressors. Can a faith be found to keep hope alive and give joy in all circumstances?
Tracie Peterson is a bestselling author who writes in both historical and contemporary genres. Her novels reveal her love for research as well as her strong desire to develop emotionally meaningful characters and stories for her readers. Tracie and her family live in Montana.
I’m a strange and ambiguous creature sometimes. On the one hand, I tend to snap up any kind of Medieval Christian Fiction- but conversely I tend to set very high standards for it, and sadly, this collection did not always meet them. It must be stated, here at the beginning that in spite of what the subtitle says two of the stories (I could say three, if I was being pedantic) are not actually set in the Middle- Ages.
The first is set in the seventeenth century (1600s), which I suppose if forgivable, but the third, for some inexplicable reason is basically a short Regency- set in the early 1800s. Why it was included in the collection is anyone’s guess, but as another reviewer has stated, the fact that the characters live in a castle for the majority of the story does not really excuse the obviously non-Medieval setting- and the story itself- was just- average. As regencies go, it’s no patch on Julie Klassen or Sarah Ladd. Kind of corny really, and a bit implausible. Perhaps if it were longer and there was more space for development it would be better, but some elements would need improvement.
The three stories that actually were set in the Medieval period (the thirteenth and fourteenth century respectively), which were the second, fourth and fifth in the collection, were fair at least. I have read the two Tracie Peterson ones ‘A Kingdom Divided’ and its sequel ‘Alas My Love’ in another collection a few years back, and yes, I did like them then- although they were whimsical and cheesy in parts. I think took a bit of a shine to the villain in the first story, and was glad to see his redemption in the sequel, even if there were a few questionable details. Seriously ‘Devon’ was not a first name in the thirteenth century. It was a title, but many seem to confuse the two.
The second story in the collection ‘A Legend of Mercy’ (coming before the Tracie Peterson ones- sorry about the confused order of review), was set in Ireland in the 1300s, and was okay- but not much more than okay. Yes, there was action, intrigue, fight scenes, and romance-albeit rather predictable romance. Perhaps there could have been more emphasis on the political background and the dynamics of the two families and ‘worlds’ that the male protagonist was caught between. Also, I would question, what on earth was ‘Anglo’ meant to mean in the story? I have never seen the word used as an Adjective on its own. Shouldn’t the correct term for the nobles who controlled the area known as the Pale of Settlement have been Anglo-Norman, or even Anglo-Irish? I’ve never heard of them referred to as ‘Anglo’ before anywhere.
The sixth and final story, ‘Child of Promise’ was one I found very frustrating. Yes, there was a solid Christian message, and yes it clearly presented the gospel (even though this was done in a very ‘preachy’ way), yes the characters were relatable and easy for the audience to connect with.
Yet it was hard to ignore the historical inaccuracies and occasional silliness that the whole story seemed to be riddled with. Some might accuse me of being pedantic, but at some points the whole thing just seemed like a roll call of myths about the Middle- Ages and Early Modern period. Saying that people in the Elizabethan age seldom bathed because they thought it bad for the health was one thing (perhaps there was some basis for that), but making out that the vast majority of them had basically no concept of hygiene whatsoever is something else. It could almost be considered slightly amusing that the male protagonist, Harry, for all his supposedly ‘enlightened’ ideas about hygiene and cleanliness- then proceeded to do things like wiping his mouth on tablecloths - which was considered very bad etiquette.
Elsewhere, implying that most people of the period were superstitious twits who would attribute practically anything they did not understand to magic and sorcery is simply condescending- and a person being called a ‘witch’ for quoting from the Bible? Seriously?
Other details fared no better. Who drinks brandy from a jug- and I’m fairly sure that clerics after the Reformation were allowed to marry. Even the reference to the possibility of ‘Meala, the protagonist being sold as a ‘slave’ to the evil Bishop seemed incredible. I thought that trading Christian slaves had been banned like 400 years before- unless domestic servants of the Elizabethan Age were being counted as ‘slaves’- which they were not. Then there was the idea that seducing one of the Queen’s ladies in waiting was a treasonable offence for which the person in question would be executed if caught. Really? I’ve never heard of that- and I’m fairly certain the Earl of Oxford did such a thing at one point, and he was not executed for it. Nor was marrying without parent’s consent a capital offense either, like the characters seemed to think at one point.
I even had some issue with the implication that anyone who did not hold to the early Puritan convictions of the characters was not saved. Okay, I get that they were saying that simple allegiance to the state church was not real faith- but some of the early Reformers preached that Salvation was to be obtained through faith in Christ alone. So I really think that not all early Anglicans were corrupt or false Christians.
Overall, this collection was a little disappointing. I think that maybe other stories could have been found that were genuinely Medieval- and anyone expecting new material should be warned that all the stories have previously been published elsewhere. The main reason for the higher rating was that some of the stories were ones I liked before, and others had their merits, in spite of the drawbacks. It was fairly light reading (even if the length seems daunting, none of the individual stories is more than 160 pages in length), and would be good for lovers of Romance. Those seeking something other than romance would be best advised to look elsewhere.
I received a PDF version of this title free from the publisher via Netgalley for the purposes of review. I was not required to write a positive one and all opinions expressed are my own.
Individual ratings for the novellas: Book one: 1 star Book two: 2 stars Book three: 4 stars Book four: 5 stars Book five: 4 stars Book six: 3.5 stars
The Knight's Bride was a good collection of novellas, but not fantastic. The first two novellas were not that interesting to me, but the rest were good with my favorite being the first Tracie Peterson one. I loved how both of Tracie Peterson's novellas connected, as the main characters from the first were in the second book!
The third novella did not seem medieval at all...it felt like a regency story instead -- at least to me. But I actually liked that because I enjoy those types of stories too. :)
All in all, I loved some of the novellas and didn't like others.
*I received a complimentary eBook copy via NetGalley for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
Honestly, I expected medieval stories in a book of this title. I think only three were set in the middle ages, and one was even a Regency--gasp! There were some cute moments and some sweet moments but for me they were overshadowed by many historical inaccuracies and stereotypes.
I put off writing a review for a long time because there was just so much to detail, but instead of detailing the issues, I'm just going to link to another reviewer's excellent work in that respect: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... (Concerning her note about celibate clergy, I think the story was about Anglicans and their clergy was never required to be celibate.)
I'd really wanted to love these stories because I love how chunky the book is, but overall I think the authors didn't immerse themselves in the time periods enough and tried to construct a setting based on a brief overview in a history book and a salting of modern stereotype rather than really learning the setting in-depth. Some authors got close to the mark than others, but none really hit it, leaving me with a sense of frustration at the end of the book.
Take a step back in time....way back in time....with these six romantic novellas. The five authors: Tracie Peterson (she writes two of the novellas which are linked together as Alas, My Love is a sequel to A Kingdom Divided), Dianne Christner (Where Angels Camp), Pamela Griffin (A Legend of Mercy), Yvonne Lehman (The Stranger's Kiss), and Jill Stengl (A Child of Promise). While this collection promises novellas set in the Middle Ages, Tracie Peterson's two novellas and Pamela Griffin's are the only two in the collection which are actually set in the Middle Ages. Each of the novellas has been published previously so some readers may recognize them or find them vaguely familiar. These novellas are a quick read and one can read them separately and stop and come back to them later or read the entire collection in one setting. They are strictly romance and I actually prefer romances that include mystery or suspense. I do like novellas because I enjoy finishing the stories quickly at times...they are very relaxing and nice stress relievers. Faith and hope are woven into each story, making them very uplifting to read. I am giving this collection a rating of 4 stars and recommend it to readers of romance and Christian fiction. I received an ebook of this novella collection from netgalley and Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Where Angels Camp - by Dianne Christner (Goodreads?) A Legend of Mercy - by Pamela Griffin (Goodreads?) The Stranger’s Kiss - by Yvonne Lehman A Kingdom Divided - by Tracie Peterson (Goodreads?) Alas, My Love - by Tracie Peterson A Child of Promise by Jill Stengl
I was looking at the ratings by other readers and was surprised. I loved these stories. The two by Tracie Peterson I had read before, several times actually. They are part of an anthology by her called Castles. One of the stories in this collection isn't from the Middle Ages, but I thought it was quite good any way. I don't usually finish anthologies, getting bored with the stories before I can finish, but this is one of the rare ones that I read all the way through.
This is six books in one, some are longer than others. If you enjoy reading about knights, friendships and romance these books will keep you entertained.
Where Angels Camp - by Dianne Christner - Amelia and Christian have an instant connection. When Amelia’s dad warns her away from Christian will she honor his wishes or will her desires win? Will Christian ever win over Amelia’s father, What exactly does he have against him. When Christian finally turns it all over to the Lord will he be able to handle what ever it is God ask of him?
A Legend of Mercy - by Pamela Griffin - Ardghal and Breanda have grown up in a unique situation. Being raised in the same castle, yet not being related. They share a unique friendship and love. When jealousy, and secrets are revealed will their love last or are they destined to be apart.
The Stranger’s Kiss - by Yvonne Lehman - This is so much more than your typical love story. Murder, suspense, mystery and more all tangled into one beautifully written story. Jenny must fight for the life and love she wants, yet will she be doomed to marry a man she does not love? When tragedy strikes who can she trust? Will she be able to endure whatever the outcome of these trials? And who is the stranger? Tilden can’t believe he has finally found her. Yet is he to late to actually save her? Will she ever understand him? I love the way this story was put together there is much tragedy and suspicion woven throughout this story as well as a large dose of forgiveness and understanding.
A Kingdom Divided - by Tracie Peterson - I love the writing style of Tracie Peterson and this one is no disappointment. Arianne wants out of her house, to live without her wicked father. She is scared and relieved to be marrying a complete stranger, but will he be any better? Can she learn to love and trust him? When tragedy strikes the castle is it to late for her happy ever after? Richard can’t believe the fear he sees in Arianne’s eyes, yet he is a patient man. Will she ever learn to trust and love him? When his castle and all he holds dear is in jeopardy will he be able to be the man God wants him to be and be able to save all he holds dear? This novel is full of mystery, love, tragedy, trust in God and so much more.
Alas, My Love - by Tracie Peterson - This is a continuation of A Kingdom Divided. We continue in the life of Richard and Arianne yet focus on Richards brother Tancred. Tancred is a changed man and is now trying to find the true killers of his parents. Upon his arrival he meets a beautiful lady whom seems to look for him everywhere. When love blooms will he ever be able to make her his bride or will tragedy leave them from true happiness? Helena has only loved one man, will God ever bring him back to her? On the brink of death she finds the favor of Richard and Arianne. Could she ever trust them with her past? When all comes crushing down around her will she be able to handle all that is revealed? I love the characters in this story and the depths of love, loyalty and forgiveness that are shared.
A Child of Promise - by Jill Stergl - Harry is not sure what to think of Maela. When she is in need of his help he can only do as God would have him to do. As their trust and friendship grows he can only wonder what God has in store for him. When he must leave her will God reveal his plan for them or will he be to late to help? Maela does not know what to think on Harry and his kindness. She has never been shown what true love looks like. When Harry opens her eyes and heart to so many things she will never be the same. Can Maela learn to love, trust and forgive?
I was given a copy of this book from net galley for my honest opinion.
In an age where chivalry thrives, danger abounds also. Follow six stories of love and honor that will warm your heart during these cold winter months.
With settings ranging from the years 1367 to 1815, there is a wide variety of stories in this collection. Each author brings to life the mystery and romance of the time in their own unique ways. The beauty of the language and the oddity of the customs is always a pleasure to learn more about. The Middle Ages has always held a fascination for me. Times were so different then that it is sometimes hard for me to understand why things happened the way they did. But this collection was eye opening to the culture of the time and inspired me to look up different aspects of the era. This is a nice collection and the stories are short and easy to read. My personal favorite was A Stranger's Kiss by Yvonne Lehman. Even though most of the time I was frustrated with the main character for not speaking out what was on her heart. I realised however, that in the real world, we could save so much stress and confusion if we would only speak out. Unfortunately, this doesn't always happen right away. Fear and doubt riddle us until we no longer know what to do. But in the end the truth will win out and justice will reign.
I received a free digital copy of The Knight's Bride from Barbour Publishing Inc. through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Out of all of the inspiring romances that I have both read and review this year I have to confess that THE KNIGHT'S BRIDE is my absolute favorite. I would have never guessed that any author(s) would have been capable of combining the medieval period with that of inspiring romances, but I was wrong. Honestly I am glad that I was wrong because otherwise I may not have discovered this wonderful read.
I have always been a fan of the medieval era. I have devoured books both romance and otherwise that have featured the period as the backdrop within the plot. This book was stunning wonderful with its vibrant stories of knights falling in love and I could not have been happier by the stories.
I have no favorites within the collection because each story was simply outstanding and true within romance. Although I have included this time and time again within my previous reviews I have to state once again to read inspiring romances. You do not have to be religious in order to fall in love with these stories. The romances are beautifully written and the stories I promise will continue with you for years to come.
-This review was submitted to all respectable parties PRIOR to posting the review to Goodreads.
This collection of Christian romances has a bit of twist from the usual historical aspects; these six stories are set in the middle ages, where chivalry was born. My overall thought on this collection was that the stories had a good solid Christian message, a few of them a bit stronger than the others. However, when I read each story, I did not feel "transported back in time."
I did not really feel like I learned any more than I already knew about the time period and what made this time in history unique and although each story was well written, had strong story lines and well developed characters I felt there could have been more descriptive narrations.
I was pleasantly surprised that Tracie Peterson had two stories because her characters in A Kingdom Divided were so well done, I felt like there should be more and to my surprise the next story, Alas My Love was a sequel. I enjoyed all six of the stories even if I felt they were a bit light on historical details.
This book was given to me by NetGalley for my honest opinion. The publisher is Barbour Publishing. Read all of my reviews atBlessings N Bloggings
The Knight's Bride is a compilation of six stand alone romance stories set in the Middle Ages. They are full of faith, romance, damsels in distress and heroes riding to their rescue. All in all, a great way to relax into some light, fun reading during the holiday season when things can get pretty hectic.
In keeping with my commitment for full disclosure of my reading experience ... while I enjoyed reading The Knight's Bride, it turns out that I prefer to read their romance collections set in the Pioneer days more than the Middle Ages. Still, this was a relaxing and enjoyable read so please don't let my personal preferences dissuade your interest in this book.
Thank you to Barbour books and Netgalley for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Knight's Bride: Chivalry Lives in 6 stories from the Middle Ages is a fabulous collection. This collection includes: Where Angels Camp - by Dianne Christner - A Legend of Mercy - by Pamela Griffin - The Stranger’s Kiss - by Yvonne Lehman - A Kingdom Divided - by Tracie Peterson - Alas, My Love - by Tracie Peterson - A Child of Promise - by Jill Stergl - This book introduced me to 5 new to me authors and I look forward to more by them. I, especially loved Tracie Peterson's addition to this collection and will definitely be adding her books to my wish list. A new favorite collection! 5 plus stars.
I love medieval stories, so I enjoyed seeing what would happen in each book.
Book 1: 2 1/5 stars Books 2-5: 3 stars Book 6: 5 stars
The ratings above are based on content, not the technical aspects of writing. The writing itself was good and engaging. The "stars" are for a lack of predictability and incorporating unique aspects to the stories.
The last book was the most unpredictable. It's a touching story of a young girl who makes a friend in the meadow and finds hope. While those who should have taken care of her are mistreating her and neglecting her, she's blessed to find people who come to love her and help her find a new life.
The Knight's Bride: Chivalry Lives in Six Stories from the Middle Ages is a collection of six short stories set during the Middle Ages. The stories are easy-to-read and teach simple truths.
The following stories are found in The Knight's Bride:
Where Angels Camp A Legend of Mercy The Stranger's Kiss A Kingdom Divided Alas, My Love A Child of Promise
Recommend.
Review written after downloading a galley from NetGalley.
Six sweet historical reads with a wonderful story and great characters with an excellent message that love and faith can overcome wars and feuds. The stories held my interest and the characters were excellent. This was an enjoyable read with lots of heart.
I cannot endorse this collection of books enough. I have read many Christian fiction and grow frustrated with immature and shallow faiths, that these stories were refreshing to my soul and a delight to read. Well written and encouraging. This collection is well worth the effort!
I think I am not the best reviewer for this novella collection - simply because I am European. I have always thought that one can write best about the circumstances known to him (with several exceptions, of course). Sure, the historical circumstances are unknown to us living in the present times, but still - if I write a book about Wild West times, it would be probably not of good quality, simply because I don´t have any experience of the mentality, customs and way of living then and there. And as someone who walks daily around the churches and noble houses on my way to work (not to speak about studying the history of Europe much more compared to the other continents), I might have better intuitive understand of how medieval European life could be than the non-European authors. So when reading this book, I have cringed many times because of being not able to connect with the plots of the novellas. If the genre was fantasy, I might connect better - but I don´t feel medieval Europe here.
I also don´t appreciate the (gentle) jabs against the Catholicism in the collection.
As for the stories themselves (apart from the historical setting) - I liked "A Legend of Mercy" by and Pamela Griffin and "A Child of Promise" by Jill Stengl the best (but unfortunately, I can´t honestly said that I liked them thoroughly, as I generally find it hard to connect with the characters in this collection).