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The Graistan Chronicles #3
Spring's Fury
Nicola of Ashby stages a daring escape to avoid marrying the man who killed her father. To no avail. Even trained to the sword, she cannot elude marriage to this knight who is as much her match as her mate.
Until Gilliam FitzHenry besieged Ashby and claimed it as his own, he had no hope of home and family. Now, Nicola's home and hand are his, but if he is to ever own her heart it will take every bit of his natural talent for taming wild creatures.
Until Gilliam FitzHenry besieged Ashby and claimed it as his own, he had no hope of home and family. Now, Nicola's home and hand are his, but if he is to ever own her heart it will take every bit of his natural talent for taming wild creatures.
377 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 1, 1995
499 people are currently reading
1094 people want to read
About the author
Denise Domning
49 books268 followersWhat can I say? I’m single and over sixty, I write and I farm on eight acres of slowly improving red earth (it originally looked like Mars had exploded!) on Oak Creek in northern Arizona. I started with chickens, then there were turkeys and Jersey milk cows. But with livestock came the predators: coyotes, bald eagles, black hawks, mountain lions, and, worst of all, raccoons. Dang those nasty creatures! They kill just because they can; think dogs with opposable thumbs. (Five chickens in one night–they reached in through the chain link and killed the birds with no expectation of being able to eat them.) They are the reason I keep livestock guardian dogs. There's the massive Polar Bear, a 135 pound Hungarian Kuvasz, Radha, the svelte and sleek 90 pound Anatolian Shepherd and her new chew toy, Rupert who is some sort of terrier mix and small enough to walk under her belly.
As for what my dogs guard, it's my growing herd of Dorper Sheep, a South African breed that (supposedly) doesn’t need to be sheared and gains all their weight on grass alone. I've also fallen in love with pigs, which are just dogs with snouts. Oh, how those rapscallions make me laugh!
If you're interested in keeping up with my farm antics, you can visit my blog at denisedomning.com or thefarmonoakcreek.com
As for what my dogs guard, it's my growing herd of Dorper Sheep, a South African breed that (supposedly) doesn’t need to be sheared and gains all their weight on grass alone. I've also fallen in love with pigs, which are just dogs with snouts. Oh, how those rapscallions make me laugh!
If you're interested in keeping up with my farm antics, you can visit my blog at denisedomning.com or thefarmonoakcreek.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
July 16, 2025
My 2025 "Spring" read! I love this cover! The color palette is so pretty and unusual.
Set in 1194 and following the events of Winter's Heat, heroine Nicola Ashby is being held prisoner by Lord Rannulf of Graistan after her participation in her father's revolt against Graistan. Rannulf commands that she marry his younger half brother, Gilliam Fitzhenry, so that Gilliam can get possession of her lands. Gilliam is the man that killed Nicola's father during the siege of Ashby, therefore Nicola will do everything in her power to avoid marrying Gilliam, and is desperate to find a way to rule Ashby in her own right.
...
This was a really good book, and I think it's probably the best in the series. I was intrigued by Gilliam and Nicola as a couple when they were introduced in the first book, and I was really impressed by how their relationship played out.
The first half of this book was a little bit hard for me to get in to because I felt like the subject matter was so heavy. I found Nicola to be a deeply sympathetic character. I typically roll my eyes at HR heroines who balk against the gender norms of their time period because it usually feels anachronistic, but Nicola was such a well written character that the author managed to pull this trope off in a way that felt painfully realistic. Nicola was raised by a father and a community who more or less indulged her in the fantasy that if she could just prove herself capable enough, she could one day rule Ashby in her own right - and she got tantalizing close to achieving that dream, only to have everything fall apart. It was really heartbreaking to read about a girl who was so independent and confident having her autonomy and rights stripped away from her one by one for the entire first half of the book. Nicola is a little bit annoying and stubborn (and says "Nay!" approx. 50,000 times in this book), and she makes increasingly stupid decisions in her desperation to escape her impending marriage, but I could hardly blame her given the circumstances.
This was a super slow burn and emotional romance. Gilliam did kill Nicola's father after all, and it takes Nicola a long time to reconcile her feelings towards him. I appreciated that the author really took the time to explore Nicola's feelings and let them develop, rather than rush into having her love Gilliam simply because he is the hero. I loved Gilliam as a hero, but even I had a hard time rooting for him and Nicola to be together at first purely because of her circumstances. However, once it gets going, their relationship is very endearing.
As always, I was impressed by Denise Domning's writing and her portrayal of the High Middle Ages. She commits to the details of her characters' day-to-day lives which makes the time period really come to life in her stories. I mentioned in my review for book 2, Summer's Storm, that I found the secondary characters in that story boring, but in this story I thought the supporting were very interesting and fleshed out - particularly Gilliam's reluctant young squire Jos, and Nicola's friend Tilda. They were a highlight in the story.
The reason I give this 4 stars instead of 5 is because I found the first half of the book to be a little depressing. That's not to say that it wasn't well written or realistic, it just wasn't the vibe that I enjoy for Historical Romance. I will definitely read the 4th book to finish this series, but I don't see how it could top this one. I truly think that this is peak for the series.
Set in 1194 and following the events of Winter's Heat, heroine Nicola Ashby is being held prisoner by Lord Rannulf of Graistan after her participation in her father's revolt against Graistan. Rannulf commands that she marry his younger half brother, Gilliam Fitzhenry, so that Gilliam can get possession of her lands. Gilliam is the man that killed Nicola's father during the siege of Ashby, therefore Nicola will do everything in her power to avoid marrying Gilliam, and is desperate to find a way to rule Ashby in her own right.
...
This was a really good book, and I think it's probably the best in the series. I was intrigued by Gilliam and Nicola as a couple when they were introduced in the first book, and I was really impressed by how their relationship played out.
The first half of this book was a little bit hard for me to get in to because I felt like the subject matter was so heavy. I found Nicola to be a deeply sympathetic character. I typically roll my eyes at HR heroines who balk against the gender norms of their time period because it usually feels anachronistic, but Nicola was such a well written character that the author managed to pull this trope off in a way that felt painfully realistic. Nicola was raised by a father and a community who more or less indulged her in the fantasy that if she could just prove herself capable enough, she could one day rule Ashby in her own right - and she got tantalizing close to achieving that dream, only to have everything fall apart. It was really heartbreaking to read about a girl who was so independent and confident having her autonomy and rights stripped away from her one by one for the entire first half of the book. Nicola is a little bit annoying and stubborn (and says "Nay!" approx. 50,000 times in this book), and she makes increasingly stupid decisions in her desperation to escape her impending marriage, but I could hardly blame her given the circumstances.
This was a super slow burn and emotional romance. Gilliam did kill Nicola's father after all, and it takes Nicola a long time to reconcile her feelings towards him. I appreciated that the author really took the time to explore Nicola's feelings and let them develop, rather than rush into having her love Gilliam simply because he is the hero. I loved Gilliam as a hero, but even I had a hard time rooting for him and Nicola to be together at first purely because of her circumstances. However, once it gets going, their relationship is very endearing.
As always, I was impressed by Denise Domning's writing and her portrayal of the High Middle Ages. She commits to the details of her characters' day-to-day lives which makes the time period really come to life in her stories. I mentioned in my review for book 2, Summer's Storm, that I found the secondary characters in that story boring, but in this story I thought the supporting were very interesting and fleshed out - particularly Gilliam's reluctant young squire Jos, and Nicola's friend Tilda. They were a highlight in the story.
The reason I give this 4 stars instead of 5 is because I found the first half of the book to be a little depressing. That's not to say that it wasn't well written or realistic, it just wasn't the vibe that I enjoy for Historical Romance. I will definitely read the 4th book to finish this series, but I don't see how it could top this one. I truly think that this is peak for the series.
March 11, 2016
Lady Nicola of Ashby is as far from a damsel in distress as I've seen written in historical romance fiction. She is tall of stature, strong and aggressive in her physicality, cunning, and well-trained. Indulged by her father, she had avoided marriage to the ripe old age of 17. Her father is killed in a siege, and Nicola finds she must marry the knight who slayed him.
Gilliam, as the youngest of four sons of a landed lord, never had expectations of property. After the siege where he saved his brother's life, which is a major plot point of book one of this series, Winter's Heat, he is given Ashby and decides to marry the old lord's daughter to ease the transition. She is a harridan, but loves her home deeply. As a knight who fought in the crusades and has had his own level of heartache, Gilliam just wants to prosper and build a bucolic home in his own little corner of the world. The path is not easy, and Nicola hangs onto her hate so long that she endangers those around her.
One of the highlights of the book is the introduction of Jos, a foster child and squire for Gilliam. His emergence as a hearty and healthy pre-teen is mirrored by the growth in the relationship between Nicola and Gilliam.
There are battles and brawls, deceit and redemption in this book. One interesting aspect is the relationship between lords and ladies and the common castle folk who populate the story. The social hierarchy is explored and there are consequences when individuals move beyond or beneath their class. This theme has a fascinating influence on the plot.
Note - for best enjoyment these books should be read in order.
Gilliam, as the youngest of four sons of a landed lord, never had expectations of property. After the siege where he saved his brother's life, which is a major plot point of book one of this series, Winter's Heat, he is given Ashby and decides to marry the old lord's daughter to ease the transition. She is a harridan, but loves her home deeply. As a knight who fought in the crusades and has had his own level of heartache, Gilliam just wants to prosper and build a bucolic home in his own little corner of the world. The path is not easy, and Nicola hangs onto her hate so long that she endangers those around her.
One of the highlights of the book is the introduction of Jos, a foster child and squire for Gilliam. His emergence as a hearty and healthy pre-teen is mirrored by the growth in the relationship between Nicola and Gilliam.
There are battles and brawls, deceit and redemption in this book. One interesting aspect is the relationship between lords and ladies and the common castle folk who populate the story. The social hierarchy is explored and there are consequences when individuals move beyond or beneath their class. This theme has a fascinating influence on the plot.
Note - for best enjoyment these books should be read in order.
October 31, 2014
Rich in Medieval Detail and an Exciting Story!
Set in 1194, this is the story of Nicola of Ashby, a tall warrior woman, and Gilliam FitzHenry, brother to Rannulf, Lord Graistan. The story opens as Gilliam is assaulting Ashby manor and kills Nicola’s father, calling him traitor. There is obviously a prior history between the characters and prior events have taken place; hence I recommend you read these books in order (this is the 3rd book in the Graistan Chronicles, series list below).
Gilliam intends to marry Nicola to gain Ashby, which he has already started rebuilding after he burned down all the cottages and manor. But Nicola will not marry the murderer of her father so she flees on the day they are to wed. Seemed reasonable to me. Fierce and clever, Nicola manages an escape dressed as a lad and once in the woods, slays four thugs who would capture her for the ransom money. Domning did a great job with these fight scenes…very exciting. When Gilliam learns of Nicola’s success, he is impressed and eager to tame the wild woman. He has a history, too, having apparently had an affair with his brother’s wife who carried his child. Both are now dead. (We never do get the full story on that one which I assume is in the prior book.)
Eventually Gilliam will force Nicola to wed him and the story of their difficult path to love begins.
Domning takes pains to provide accurate historical details reflecting her deep research into the medieval period. While there isn’t much history here the book has an authentic medieval feel in characters, setting and all that goes with it. Domning serves up a worthy hero and heroine, too. I loved Nicola’s spirit and her courage. And who could not find Gilliam charming and admire his persistence in taming his new wife? This is a well-written, action packed story.
Lovers of medieval romance will want to read this series—but do it in order!
The Graistan Chronicles (in the boxed set, it’s the Seasons Series):
WINTER’S HEAT
SUMMER’S STORM
SPRING’S FURY
AUTUMN’S FLAME
A LOVE FOR ALL SEASONS
Set in 1194, this is the story of Nicola of Ashby, a tall warrior woman, and Gilliam FitzHenry, brother to Rannulf, Lord Graistan. The story opens as Gilliam is assaulting Ashby manor and kills Nicola’s father, calling him traitor. There is obviously a prior history between the characters and prior events have taken place; hence I recommend you read these books in order (this is the 3rd book in the Graistan Chronicles, series list below).
Gilliam intends to marry Nicola to gain Ashby, which he has already started rebuilding after he burned down all the cottages and manor. But Nicola will not marry the murderer of her father so she flees on the day they are to wed. Seemed reasonable to me. Fierce and clever, Nicola manages an escape dressed as a lad and once in the woods, slays four thugs who would capture her for the ransom money. Domning did a great job with these fight scenes…very exciting. When Gilliam learns of Nicola’s success, he is impressed and eager to tame the wild woman. He has a history, too, having apparently had an affair with his brother’s wife who carried his child. Both are now dead. (We never do get the full story on that one which I assume is in the prior book.)
Eventually Gilliam will force Nicola to wed him and the story of their difficult path to love begins.
Domning takes pains to provide accurate historical details reflecting her deep research into the medieval period. While there isn’t much history here the book has an authentic medieval feel in characters, setting and all that goes with it. Domning serves up a worthy hero and heroine, too. I loved Nicola’s spirit and her courage. And who could not find Gilliam charming and admire his persistence in taming his new wife? This is a well-written, action packed story.
Lovers of medieval romance will want to read this series—but do it in order!
The Graistan Chronicles (in the boxed set, it’s the Seasons Series):
WINTER’S HEAT
SUMMER’S STORM
SPRING’S FURY
AUTUMN’S FLAME
A LOVE FOR ALL SEASONS
November 14, 2016
For the time being I am giving this book a DNF. I simply could not get past the heroine. She acted like a feral animal, with no care or concern for the people she injured and killed. Yes, killed. Further, to get out of a marriage with the hero, she decided to marry a man (whom she'd previously rejected) because she thought she could manage him far more easily. And then kill him. It was just too over the top for me, and after about ¼ of the way through, I couldn't force myself to go on. So, I will go to the next book in this series, because I liked the first two books and the author writes well.
I realize it's a challenge to depict strong, smart, assertive women in a time period where they were little more than chattel, and yet still make them believable within the context of their times. Added to this challenge, the author must do this in a way where modern readers can relate to the heroines as well. The author did it masterfully with Rowena, the heroine in Winter's Heat, the first book in this series.
I noticed from the reviews that the heroine starts to change about ½ way through the book (she would have to for this book to be any sort of romance). Perhaps that will be my incentive to come back and try to finish the book at another time.
I realize it's a challenge to depict strong, smart, assertive women in a time period where they were little more than chattel, and yet still make them believable within the context of their times. Added to this challenge, the author must do this in a way where modern readers can relate to the heroines as well. The author did it masterfully with Rowena, the heroine in Winter's Heat, the first book in this series.
I noticed from the reviews that the heroine starts to change about ½ way through the book (she would have to for this book to be any sort of romance). Perhaps that will be my incentive to come back and try to finish the book at another time.
June 16, 2013
I purchased this as a boxed set of 5 novels for my Kindle. I'm glad I did, Denise Domning is a new author for me and weaves an interesting tale with believable characters and plots. The setting for each is the 12th century which, to me, is interesting as well. I enjoy historic fiction and don't really have a favorite "place in time" as long as the plot is believable.
The pace is good and moves with a comfortable flow. The challenge to many novels with a conflict between the main characters would be not drawing it out too long with the "same old, same old" interaction. I'm a "build a bridge and get over it" kind of person. Life is too short to hold endless grudges. The author did a great job overcoming the conflict without drawing it out too long.
This is book three of the five in the series and follows a noble family; however the novels can also stand alone. I like that aspect as it allows the author to touch on other events in previous novels without long, drawn out explanations. I have read three in this series so far and have enjoyed each.
The pace is good and moves with a comfortable flow. The challenge to many novels with a conflict between the main characters would be not drawing it out too long with the "same old, same old" interaction. I'm a "build a bridge and get over it" kind of person. Life is too short to hold endless grudges. The author did a great job overcoming the conflict without drawing it out too long.
This is book three of the five in the series and follows a noble family; however the novels can also stand alone. I like that aspect as it allows the author to touch on other events in previous novels without long, drawn out explanations. I have read three in this series so far and have enjoyed each.
dnf
September 1, 2016No stars. Did not finish. Boring. Not my thing.
September 14, 2025
The fierce Valkyrie-like warrioress, Nicola of Ashby, refuses to give place to the Graistan knight who conquered Ashby and killed her father. Gilliam has regrets in his life, but not the taking of Ashby or wanting its lady for a bride. Denise Domning’s medieval romance series continues to sizzle and shine with compelling characters and intriguing plots set against a well-crafted 12th century world.
Spring’s Fury is the third installment in the Graistan Chronicles- or sometimes titled- Seasons series. While Spring’s Fury is a standalone story, both characters have been present since the first book and the events that lead to their story begin in Winter’s Heat.
Spring’s Fury opens with Nicola imprisoned at Graistan on the eve of her forced marriage with Gilliam Fitzhenry the new acknowledged lord of her family’s manor at Ashby. Gilliam’s oldest brother is the overlord and her own father rebelled, held Rannulf Fitzhenry captive, and Nicola herself barred the gates when Gilliam came to retrieve his brother. These decisions gave the Fitzhenrys the right to take Ashby by law.
However, Nicola is having none of it. That manor is hers- she put in the work and she’s the heiress. And, she will do whatever it takes to wrest it back from the powerful Fitzhenrys even if it means claiming a betrothal to a neighbor who she can’t stand and only wants her for Ashby lands. Over her dead body- but more likely his- will she wed the man who killed her father.
Gilliam has spent the time of Nicola’s captivity and the legal process time rebuilding Ashby and building rapport with the people there. Rannulf and Geoffrey think he is crazy to take Nicola as wife. She’s an Amazon-sized female with formidable fighting skills who will fight and has promised to kill to hold Ashby on her own. Gilliam has a way of taming wild creatures and perhaps this will hold him in good stead with a strong woman- besides, he is convinced this is his penance for a past sin.
Nicola has a heedless plan that sets into motion events that she will later come to regret- but she already has regrets for her part in Ashby’s burning and her father’s death- just like Gilliam. Her temper always gets the better of her and she speaks before she thinks. She’s a skilled, capable woman living in a man’s world and it chafes at her.
Spring’s Fury starts out in a way that left me twitching to smack the heroine. She has reason for her grief and some anger. But boy howdy was she acting like a spoilt brat- a toddler smashing its toys about. And, her decisions were equally immature.
However, there was hope for her and she had to fall pretty low to see that she needed to change. I’m glad that some of Gilliam’s self-flagellation attitude that was strong in Winter’s Heat had lessened by Spring’s Fury so I didn’t have to deal with his drama at the same time.
This was an unlikely pairing that found a way. Gilliam was the calm, steady rock at the heart of the story. The people of Ashby saw his strength and the heart he had for the manor, holdings, and even Nicola long before she caught a glimmer. This pair wrestled with the emotional trauma of being on opposite sides when Ashby was fought over, but they slowly found common ground restoring Ashby in their own areas of expertise and also as they worked with the boy squire Gilliam was training who started as a mama’s boy and didn’t want to be a squire.
And, just to be clear, forced marriage didn't mean Gilliam forced himself on Nicola or abused her (actually, she was the abusive one).
But, the relationship drama was only the central aspect. There was also the neighbor, Ocslade, that Nicola gave an excuse to try his play for Ashby by foul means since he had no honorable rights to it. Spring’s Fury focuses on life at Ashby and the romance, but in the back of the reader’s mind is the knowledge that Ocslade would make his play. The suspense built and I liked how it all culminated in an exciting climax.
Spring’s Fury turned out to be another strong winner for me and I am eager to continue to the last Graistan brother, Geoff’s story. These are not soft tales and portray the grittier side of medieval life even among the nobles who have to fight hard for love and for lands. Definitely a recommend to those who love this period for historical romance.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on 9.7.25.
Spring’s Fury is the third installment in the Graistan Chronicles- or sometimes titled- Seasons series. While Spring’s Fury is a standalone story, both characters have been present since the first book and the events that lead to their story begin in Winter’s Heat.
Spring’s Fury opens with Nicola imprisoned at Graistan on the eve of her forced marriage with Gilliam Fitzhenry the new acknowledged lord of her family’s manor at Ashby. Gilliam’s oldest brother is the overlord and her own father rebelled, held Rannulf Fitzhenry captive, and Nicola herself barred the gates when Gilliam came to retrieve his brother. These decisions gave the Fitzhenrys the right to take Ashby by law.
However, Nicola is having none of it. That manor is hers- she put in the work and she’s the heiress. And, she will do whatever it takes to wrest it back from the powerful Fitzhenrys even if it means claiming a betrothal to a neighbor who she can’t stand and only wants her for Ashby lands. Over her dead body- but more likely his- will she wed the man who killed her father.
Gilliam has spent the time of Nicola’s captivity and the legal process time rebuilding Ashby and building rapport with the people there. Rannulf and Geoffrey think he is crazy to take Nicola as wife. She’s an Amazon-sized female with formidable fighting skills who will fight and has promised to kill to hold Ashby on her own. Gilliam has a way of taming wild creatures and perhaps this will hold him in good stead with a strong woman- besides, he is convinced this is his penance for a past sin.
Nicola has a heedless plan that sets into motion events that she will later come to regret- but she already has regrets for her part in Ashby’s burning and her father’s death- just like Gilliam. Her temper always gets the better of her and she speaks before she thinks. She’s a skilled, capable woman living in a man’s world and it chafes at her.
Spring’s Fury starts out in a way that left me twitching to smack the heroine. She has reason for her grief and some anger. But boy howdy was she acting like a spoilt brat- a toddler smashing its toys about. And, her decisions were equally immature.
However, there was hope for her and she had to fall pretty low to see that she needed to change. I’m glad that some of Gilliam’s self-flagellation attitude that was strong in Winter’s Heat had lessened by Spring’s Fury so I didn’t have to deal with his drama at the same time.
This was an unlikely pairing that found a way. Gilliam was the calm, steady rock at the heart of the story. The people of Ashby saw his strength and the heart he had for the manor, holdings, and even Nicola long before she caught a glimmer. This pair wrestled with the emotional trauma of being on opposite sides when Ashby was fought over, but they slowly found common ground restoring Ashby in their own areas of expertise and also as they worked with the boy squire Gilliam was training who started as a mama’s boy and didn’t want to be a squire.
And, just to be clear, forced marriage didn't mean Gilliam forced himself on Nicola or abused her (actually, she was the abusive one).
But, the relationship drama was only the central aspect. There was also the neighbor, Ocslade, that Nicola gave an excuse to try his play for Ashby by foul means since he had no honorable rights to it. Spring’s Fury focuses on life at Ashby and the romance, but in the back of the reader’s mind is the knowledge that Ocslade would make his play. The suspense built and I liked how it all culminated in an exciting climax.
Spring’s Fury turned out to be another strong winner for me and I am eager to continue to the last Graistan brother, Geoff’s story. These are not soft tales and portray the grittier side of medieval life even among the nobles who have to fight hard for love and for lands. Definitely a recommend to those who love this period for historical romance.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on 9.7.25.
February 15, 2011
Overall Rating: 3.85 // Action: 3.75 / Emotion: 4 / Romance: 4.5 / Sensuous: 2 / Intrigue: 3 / Medieval Flavor: 5 / Humor: 8 / Tears: 0
Spring's Fury , Denise Domning's third book in her five-book series, The Graistan Chronicles, is another adventure in true medieval-flavored reading. Although the book can easily be read as a stand-alone book, Spring's Fury features a hero and heroine that were introduced in book one of the series, Winter's Heat . Would recommend reading at least the first book of the series before reading this third book to get a better feel for the events and emotions occurring herein.
Gilliam FitzHenry, the fourth son of Henry of Graistan, has been handed his life's dream -- a keep of his own. Gilliam is having to rebuild Ashby because it had been partially burned down during a siege (that occurred in Winter's Heat ). Gilliam wants to marry the wild, unruly, daughter of the previous ruler of Ashby, Nicola, because {1} the people of Ashby love her, and {2) she knows how to manage Ashby into prosperity.
Nicola, however, has no desire whatsoever to marry any man, much less the man she saw kill her father (during said siege). Nicola has been spoiled by her father, John of Ashby, who allowed her to train with his men. In true youthful visions of grandeur, Nicola believes she is capable of ruling and protecting Ashby on her own -- if only her overlord, Rannulf of Graistan, would see the light.
Rannulf, however, is more than willing to marry off Nicola to get the willful, trouble-making, escape-attempting ward off his hands. Spring's Fury is an exciting account of how Nicola tries to escape her marriage and Gilliam's efforts to catch and subdue his new bride. The book is full of adventures, romance, and the day-to-day intricacies of medieval life.
The book is also filled with two well-developed, intriguing secondary characters who add depth to the story; namely, {1} Tilda (Nicola's "more sister than servant" best friend) and {2} Jocelyn (Gilliam's weakling-minded squire). A plethora of other villagers also add realism and insightfulness to the tale.
A more detailed, spoiler-ridden synopsis/review of Spring's Fury appears at Wolf Bear Does Books
Spring's Fury , Denise Domning's third book in her five-book series, The Graistan Chronicles, is another adventure in true medieval-flavored reading. Although the book can easily be read as a stand-alone book, Spring's Fury features a hero and heroine that were introduced in book one of the series, Winter's Heat . Would recommend reading at least the first book of the series before reading this third book to get a better feel for the events and emotions occurring herein.
Gilliam FitzHenry, the fourth son of Henry of Graistan, has been handed his life's dream -- a keep of his own. Gilliam is having to rebuild Ashby because it had been partially burned down during a siege (that occurred in Winter's Heat ). Gilliam wants to marry the wild, unruly, daughter of the previous ruler of Ashby, Nicola, because {1} the people of Ashby love her, and {2) she knows how to manage Ashby into prosperity.
Nicola, however, has no desire whatsoever to marry any man, much less the man she saw kill her father (during said siege). Nicola has been spoiled by her father, John of Ashby, who allowed her to train with his men. In true youthful visions of grandeur, Nicola believes she is capable of ruling and protecting Ashby on her own -- if only her overlord, Rannulf of Graistan, would see the light.
Rannulf, however, is more than willing to marry off Nicola to get the willful, trouble-making, escape-attempting ward off his hands. Spring's Fury is an exciting account of how Nicola tries to escape her marriage and Gilliam's efforts to catch and subdue his new bride. The book is full of adventures, romance, and the day-to-day intricacies of medieval life.
The book is also filled with two well-developed, intriguing secondary characters who add depth to the story; namely, {1} Tilda (Nicola's "more sister than servant" best friend) and {2} Jocelyn (Gilliam's weakling-minded squire). A plethora of other villagers also add realism and insightfulness to the tale.
A more detailed, spoiler-ridden synopsis/review of Spring's Fury appears at Wolf Bear Does Books
May 27, 2019
An interesting surprise. Let's make a list.
1. The book was full of good historical details. And although I am spoiled by Elizabeth Chadwick I can appreciate historical accuracy when I see it. Of course, it wasn't perfect but still way ahead of most of the historical romances.
2. Some of the encounters between the main couple were hot or/and funny or/and making me sigh.
But only thanks to (mostly) the first point I was able to endure the next one.
3. I couldn't stand the heroine's talking about her right to Ashby. Ok, eventually, like I, she was sick to death of this blind stubbornness of hers. But before she understood that, it was hard fighting with patience.
4. Besides, let's face it, it was a romance (not fiction with love story). It doesn't mean anything bad but although (as I wrote) some encounters were really well written I have read much better love stories (taking place in Middle-Ages).
I am torn between 3 stars (for my enjoyment) and 4 stars (for historical details).
PS People, could you just stop doing covers with naked chest and/or back of hero or/and heroine? Can't you imagine anything else?
1. The book was full of good historical details. And although I am spoiled by Elizabeth Chadwick I can appreciate historical accuracy when I see it. Of course, it wasn't perfect but still way ahead of most of the historical romances.
2. Some of the encounters between the main couple were hot or/and funny or/and making me sigh.
But only thanks to (mostly) the first point I was able to endure the next one.
3. I couldn't stand the heroine's talking about her right to Ashby. Ok, eventually, like I, she was sick to death of this blind stubbornness of hers. But before she understood that, it was hard fighting with patience.
4. Besides, let's face it, it was a romance (not fiction with love story). It doesn't mean anything bad but although (as I wrote) some encounters were really well written I have read much better love stories (taking place in Middle-Ages).
I am torn between 3 stars (for my enjoyment) and 4 stars (for historical details).
PS People, could you just stop doing covers with naked chest and/or back of hero or/and heroine? Can't you imagine anything else?
April 6, 2012
Liked it very much. Blond hero (always an excellent choice in my book), and he’s a good one, too. The heroine got a little bit on my nerves from time to time…it could get annoying how less she could come to terms with what Gilliam did when her father was hardly an innocent and she was already falling in love- but in the end, I could connect to her emotional anguish.
Otherwise, very enjoyable, sex scenes were few, but very steamy for the genre. You can express the Rrrrrrrrrr-factor without too many words- you just have to choose the right ones. I was fine with what Denise Domning did here, and the sex scenes are always pretty important for me.
I will definitely read Geoff’s story, another delicious blonde!
Otherwise, very enjoyable, sex scenes were few, but very steamy for the genre. You can express the Rrrrrrrrrr-factor without too many words- you just have to choose the right ones. I was fine with what Denise Domning did here, and the sex scenes are always pretty important for me.
I will definitely read Geoff’s story, another delicious blonde!
July 20, 2014
5***** This book was even more fun than the two before it in the series. I think you should at least read book one before this or you might not understand Gillam. He is the youngest son of four and carries some heavy guilt over a youthful folly. Nicola has been raised as the son her father never had. When he is killed she believes she can take control. Only to learn the hard way that because she is a woman she has no control over even her own body. She is to be forced into marriage to the man who killed her father. I loved both of these characters. It must have been so frustrating in that era to be a strong independent woman. Now straight to book four. There is no way I can leave this family now.
October 25, 2013
For half of this book I couldn't STAND Nicola. We get it: you want to avenge your father's death. Stop beating the dead horse and MOVE ON ALREADY because you know the truth. And, as always, she doesn't know or think she could be the least bit attractive to anyone. After the half way point once she and Gilliam realize they are meant for each other and Nicola's... "needs" are satisfied, she's a completely different, and tolerable, character. As always, Domning does an excellent job with the setting and historical backdrop. This book was a nice look into everyday life during the Middle Ages as well.
Not my favorite by a long shot, but not too bad.
Not my favorite by a long shot, but not too bad.
August 29, 2015
At first, Niccola bugged me. She seemed too irrational. I was glad the story took turns I wasn't expecting, and the central couple became a love I could root for.
So far, this is my least favorite of the Graistan Chronicles.
So far, this is my least favorite of the Graistan Chronicles.
January 29, 2020
Memoirs of a Bookwyrm:
http://www.memoirsofabookwyrm.com/202...
This is Book 3 in the Graistan Chronicles. After the first book made a tremendous impact, and the second continued the storyline beautifully, I felt a bit disappointed at this third installment. Both Sir Gilliam and Lady Nicola have appeared in the first two books repeatedly, so there is already a sense of familiarity with them.
I wanted so very much to enjoy this book, and I liked several things about it. Throughout the reading, though, something about the story just felt forced. Gilliam is haunted, yet carefree. His character conflict makes perfect sense, logically, but it didn't read as genuine. I can't precisely identify what about him took me out of the book, but something just felt off.
Nicola made more sense, and felt more true, but she was uncomfortable to read. I would expect that a person who has accomplished all that she has to feel a certain level of confidence. It is understandable that some of her confidence may be shaken by the events that occurred immediately prior to this book beginning, however, I feel that the author went a little too far in the wrong direction. What's more, Nicola grew up watching her father not take proper care or interest in Ashby. She loved her father, but she was not blind to his faults. A person who is willing to admit the failings of their own loved ones ought to be able to acknowledge the true character of others. However, Nicola adamantly refuses to really look at or acknowledge Gilliam.
Now, certain things are necessary for this to be a romance novel. There has to be a level of confusion, misunderstanding, lack of awareness. I understand that, but I think this was a little too far in the wrong direction.
Domning is an incredible author, and the Graistan Chronicles is a storyline that I whole-heartedly enjoy and will be continuing. This book, I think, will simply end up being my least favorite of series.
http://www.memoirsofabookwyrm.com/202...
This is Book 3 in the Graistan Chronicles. After the first book made a tremendous impact, and the second continued the storyline beautifully, I felt a bit disappointed at this third installment. Both Sir Gilliam and Lady Nicola have appeared in the first two books repeatedly, so there is already a sense of familiarity with them.
I wanted so very much to enjoy this book, and I liked several things about it. Throughout the reading, though, something about the story just felt forced. Gilliam is haunted, yet carefree. His character conflict makes perfect sense, logically, but it didn't read as genuine. I can't precisely identify what about him took me out of the book, but something just felt off.
Nicola made more sense, and felt more true, but she was uncomfortable to read. I would expect that a person who has accomplished all that she has to feel a certain level of confidence. It is understandable that some of her confidence may be shaken by the events that occurred immediately prior to this book beginning, however, I feel that the author went a little too far in the wrong direction. What's more, Nicola grew up watching her father not take proper care or interest in Ashby. She loved her father, but she was not blind to his faults. A person who is willing to admit the failings of their own loved ones ought to be able to acknowledge the true character of others. However, Nicola adamantly refuses to really look at or acknowledge Gilliam.
Now, certain things are necessary for this to be a romance novel. There has to be a level of confusion, misunderstanding, lack of awareness. I understand that, but I think this was a little too far in the wrong direction.
Domning is an incredible author, and the Graistan Chronicles is a storyline that I whole-heartedly enjoy and will be continuing. This book, I think, will simply end up being my least favorite of series.
May 5, 2017
Its a battle on every page!
How can she marry him after what he has done? Who wants a woman so independent anyway? How can she escape? With her will strong and her pride fierce Nicola will do anything to keep what is hers. And having trained like a soldier since childhood she is capable. But one man is set to make her his own. Will her plan work to get away? Is her plan a good one? Or is she jumping from the pot into the fire? On the day of her forced wedding all is revealed. Those trusted betray, those thought malicious are kind? How is Nicola suppose to figure out her own feelings when they are a jumble mess?
Gilliam has never hoped for any future. Then a future is tossed in his lap. All he has to do to achieve this is marry. But Gilliam wants more. As he rebuilds what he tore asunder he also wages war on his ladys heart. How did noone see the beauty she was? How did no one see the true gem she was? Yes she is aggressive. Yes she is ferocious. But also kind and loyal and willing to protect those she loves with her life. Now just to win her heart, because without her knowing she already holds his.
How can she marry him after what he has done? Who wants a woman so independent anyway? How can she escape? With her will strong and her pride fierce Nicola will do anything to keep what is hers. And having trained like a soldier since childhood she is capable. But one man is set to make her his own. Will her plan work to get away? Is her plan a good one? Or is she jumping from the pot into the fire? On the day of her forced wedding all is revealed. Those trusted betray, those thought malicious are kind? How is Nicola suppose to figure out her own feelings when they are a jumble mess?
Gilliam has never hoped for any future. Then a future is tossed in his lap. All he has to do to achieve this is marry. But Gilliam wants more. As he rebuilds what he tore asunder he also wages war on his ladys heart. How did noone see the beauty she was? How did no one see the true gem she was? Yes she is aggressive. Yes she is ferocious. But also kind and loyal and willing to protect those she loves with her life. Now just to win her heart, because without her knowing she already holds his.
September 29, 2018
This was my favourite book of this series so far.
Nicola starts off as a very angry, young woman. To be fair, I can see why, but it gets a bit wearing after a while. Gilliam approaches the whole situation in a refreshingly un-medieval way, where he actually respects a woman.
I like Jos in this book and how his journey mirrors that of Nicola's. And, as ever, the world of these characters is vividly drawn without overwhelming the story with unnecessary detail.
Nicola starts off as a very angry, young woman. To be fair, I can see why, but it gets a bit wearing after a while. Gilliam approaches the whole situation in a refreshingly un-medieval way, where he actually respects a woman.
I like Jos in this book and how his journey mirrors that of Nicola's. And, as ever, the world of these characters is vividly drawn without overwhelming the story with unnecessary detail.
July 3, 2017
Spring's Fury was unexpectedly good. Denise Domning really did her homework on the medieval period. Not having read the previous Graistan Chronicles, I wasn't sure what to expect. With an unwilling bride and a determined claimant, I was bracing myself for my least favorite expression of the romance genre, marital rape. But no! Then, I was expecting a variant of The Taming of the Shrew (not a favorite either). But no! There are plot twists which lead to an unconventional but believable Happy Ever After for the couple. I didn't give it four stars because I found it hard to get into, and the hero's family, having had their stories in books 1 and 2, I suspect, were not fully fleshed out here and intrusive to the story.
June 2, 2017
Obstinate, intelligent warrior woman, who was raised as a son believed no man should own her, fighting tooth & nail for freedom, causing all who try to control her to rue the day.
An extra son, given the chance to own property, finds ways to manage all manner of hellion beasts. This fierce giant facing his greatest challenge draws out his squeamish squire while earning his reluctant wife's respect, yet he may still loose her.
Love the characters, the conflict, the banter, the village life, hurt by the betrayal. Good addition to the series.
An extra son, given the chance to own property, finds ways to manage all manner of hellion beasts. This fierce giant facing his greatest challenge draws out his squeamish squire while earning his reluctant wife's respect, yet he may still loose her.
Love the characters, the conflict, the banter, the village life, hurt by the betrayal. Good addition to the series.
June 2, 2017
I....give up. I can't get into this book. I've tried. I've fallen asleep sitting up already. Nicola is a very angry girl. Or maybe beyond angry. I'm not sure where she is on the scale. Scathing mad, perhaps?
The synopsis sounded better than the actual book, in my opinion. I've tried another book by Ms. Domning and I just don't think I'm in her "target audience." So I'm going to try another book...by someone else.
The synopsis sounded better than the actual book, in my opinion. I've tried another book by Ms. Domning and I just don't think I'm in her "target audience." So I'm going to try another book...by someone else.
February 28, 2018
Another good story
This plot I truly enjoyed as the heroine is neither ladylike nor gorgeous! A normal female with extraordinary capabilities of this 12th century era.
The hero is the youngest son of four, and he us enormous in size as well as beautiful to look at.
This third book of the series is well done.
In would recommend to readers of historical romance fiction as a good read!
This plot I truly enjoyed as the heroine is neither ladylike nor gorgeous! A normal female with extraordinary capabilities of this 12th century era.
The hero is the youngest son of four, and he us enormous in size as well as beautiful to look at.
This third book of the series is well done.
In would recommend to readers of historical romance fiction as a good read!
August 12, 2022
Im a sucker for angst, but this just didnt deliver
things were thrown around for shock, with no believable reaction or follow up from the characters
I had to put the book down after reading the scene where she was about to be raped but the hero decides to give her time
all the fear is erased instantly and she yawns, asks him to pull up the covers and goes to sleep
...???!!!
ridiculous
all the potential went nowhere.....a pity
things were thrown around for shock, with no believable reaction or follow up from the characters
I had to put the book down after reading the scene where she was about to be raped but the hero decides to give her time
all the fear is erased instantly and she yawns, asks him to pull up the covers and goes to sleep
...???!!!
ridiculous
all the potential went nowhere.....a pity
May 7, 2024
This was another wild entry into the series. Nicola is a fierce character who really puts up a fight to remain independent because of her fears. Luckily, Gilliam was mostly patient. This could have gone in the direction of non-con or dub-con but didn't. She doesn't have a lot of choices available and makes several kinda dumb decisions that resulted in several deaths. I think if both characters had been willing to TALK to each other it would've gone easier.
Still enjoyed it though!
Still enjoyed it though!
May 30, 2018
In this book, You will find a lady who does not want to be taken by any man and will fight her way to win what she desire. A Brother who wants to own his own lands. A Lord who wants more lands to own. Who will win ? What will happen?
Will the Lady find what she is wanting and find love that she did not want? You will have to read to find out
Will the Lady find what she is wanting and find love that she did not want? You will have to read to find out
June 23, 2024
I loved the simplicity and straightforward focus of Springs Fury on the central theme of love, which I found quite enjoyable. However, I would have liked to see more exploration of Gilliams lingering trauma from the previous book, it felt resolved somewhat abruptly. Overall, it was a compelling read.
November 20, 2017
Great story.
Each book gets better and better. I loved the romance and the drama. I didn't like what Tilda did and I'm glad she left. I would recommend this book and author to my friends and family.
Each book gets better and better. I loved the romance and the drama. I didn't like what Tilda did and I'm glad she left. I would recommend this book and author to my friends and family.
June 5, 2018
SPRINGS FURY: is a really good book. Lots of medieval history, fashion, and life. The heroine is great... a warrior, tall, strong, a healer, a woman. Our hero is a happy man, gigantic, strong, thoughtful and loving. Yes, there is a whiny villain too.
Read
October 29, 2023Spring's Fury
Kind of like the Taming of the Shrew. This brother was a different man. He didn't let lust rule him as many if his era did. He sought not only a wife but a friend and an ally.
Kind of like the Taming of the Shrew. This brother was a different man. He didn't let lust rule him as many if his era did. He sought not only a wife but a friend and an ally.
April 17, 2018
A good read
Humorous keeps you reading exciting this book holds your interest. Just did not want to put it down. Keeps you guessing.
Humorous keeps you reading exciting this book holds your interest. Just did not want to put it down. Keeps you guessing.
May 29, 2018
Very Taming of the Shrew-ish fun.
May 29, 2018
Grade: B
Entertaining!
Entertaining!
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