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Battle Scars #2
For King and Country
England 1193
Civil war threatens as battle-scarred knight Henry de Grey returns from the Crusades. King Richard languishes in captivity, a prisoner of the Holy Roman Emperor. Traitors to the crown pit Henry and his friends against dangerous and unknown enemies.
Loyalties will be tested, families torn apart. Friend or foe? It is hard to tell one from the other.
The king’s brother John and his allies plot to usurp Richard’s throne. With the knights Sir Stephan and Sir Robin, Henry fights for king and country. But he must keep his feelings for Sir Stephan l’Aigle secret. Sure as arrow or sword, their forbidden love could destroy him.
War, political intrigue and passion… heroes… friends and lovers… and the seeds for a new Robin Hood legend await you…
Civil war threatens as battle-scarred knight Henry de Grey returns from the Crusades. King Richard languishes in captivity, a prisoner of the Holy Roman Emperor. Traitors to the crown pit Henry and his friends against dangerous and unknown enemies.
Loyalties will be tested, families torn apart. Friend or foe? It is hard to tell one from the other.
The king’s brother John and his allies plot to usurp Richard’s throne. With the knights Sir Stephan and Sir Robin, Henry fights for king and country. But he must keep his feelings for Sir Stephan l’Aigle secret. Sure as arrow or sword, their forbidden love could destroy him.
War, political intrigue and passion… heroes… friends and lovers… and the seeds for a new Robin Hood legend await you…
579 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 2, 2016
23 people are currently reading
433 people want to read
About the author
Charlene Newcomb
28 books52 followersWelcome to my worlds.
Charlene Newcomb, aka Char, writes historical fiction and science fiction. Her award-winning Battle Scars trilogy is set in the 12th century during the reign of Richard the Lionheart. Her writing roots are in the Star Wars Expanded Universe (aka Legends) where she published 10 short stories in the Star Wars Adventure Journal. She published the scifi/space opera Echoes of the Storm in 2020, and returns to medieval times with her latest novel ROGUE in 2023.
Find me on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/CharleneNewco...
and Twitter: http://twitter.com/charnewcomb
Charlene Newcomb, aka Char, writes historical fiction and science fiction. Her award-winning Battle Scars trilogy is set in the 12th century during the reign of Richard the Lionheart. Her writing roots are in the Star Wars Expanded Universe (aka Legends) where she published 10 short stories in the Star Wars Adventure Journal. She published the scifi/space opera Echoes of the Storm in 2020, and returns to medieval times with her latest novel ROGUE in 2023.
Find me on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/CharleneNewco...
and Twitter: http://twitter.com/charnewcomb
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
May 3, 2021
A worthy sequel
I enjoyed Men of the Cross very much and have been looking forward to meeting Henry, Stephan and Robin again. The author introduces new characters as the action returns to England and Count John tries to undermine his brother, King Richard. The action sequences are vivid and the more emotional scenes are beautifully drawn.
I enjoyed Men of the Cross very much and have been looking forward to meeting Henry, Stephan and Robin again. The author introduces new characters as the action returns to England and Count John tries to undermine his brother, King Richard. The action sequences are vivid and the more emotional scenes are beautifully drawn.
February 21, 2017
For King and Country is book two in Charlene Newcomb's Battle Scars Series. Book one being Men of the Cross. After book one ended we were very much wondering what was going to happen to our MC's so I was looking forward to book two. My patience was rewarded brilliantly for it.
We continue the journey with Stephan and Henry. They are back in England after the Crusades, by no means is the war over. As a matter of fact the country is in pure chaos thanks to Prince John. King Richard is being held captive, the throne is being fought upon, there's traitors everywhere! There are many story arcs in this book and I was on the edge of my seat for so much of it. I had no idea who to trust, what words were truth, and what "next thing" Henry, Stephan, Robin, or John would do that might get them killed.
With new books comes new characters of course. We meet Henry's father and sister and Stephan's brother. I find secondary characters to be vital to any story. In this one I found myself muttering, "Oh look, more suspects."
The romance in this story for Little John was delightful. A little bit of fresh air through all the fire and ashes. I kept finding so many small joys throughout the intensity of the tale. On top of the suspense, intrigue, and romance, this book was filled with so much history. It's rich in many things. It is a very long book but I felt like I just glided along. There was no lag, the characters were brilliant, (even the evil ones) outstanding writing. This is truly a marvelous series. Especially if you're a history buff! You must read this in order. No book is a standalone. You're following a journey. I look forward to book three!
We continue the journey with Stephan and Henry. They are back in England after the Crusades, by no means is the war over. As a matter of fact the country is in pure chaos thanks to Prince John. King Richard is being held captive, the throne is being fought upon, there's traitors everywhere! There are many story arcs in this book and I was on the edge of my seat for so much of it. I had no idea who to trust, what words were truth, and what "next thing" Henry, Stephan, Robin, or John would do that might get them killed.
With new books comes new characters of course. We meet Henry's father and sister and Stephan's brother. I find secondary characters to be vital to any story. In this one I found myself muttering, "Oh look, more suspects."
The romance in this story for Little John was delightful. A little bit of fresh air through all the fire and ashes. I kept finding so many small joys throughout the intensity of the tale. On top of the suspense, intrigue, and romance, this book was filled with so much history. It's rich in many things. It is a very long book but I felt like I just glided along. There was no lag, the characters were brilliant, (even the evil ones) outstanding writing. This is truly a marvelous series. Especially if you're a history buff! You must read this in order. No book is a standalone. You're following a journey. I look forward to book three!
June 1, 2016
review is working it's way from brain to keyboard.
Oh what a tangled web Charlene Newcomb has weaved in the second installment of Battle Scars. The Crusaders have returned home to England without King Richard who languishes as a 'guest' of his enemies on the continent. For King and Country tells the tale of how Henry, Stephan and Robin deal with the turmoil being fomented by Prince John and his grab for the English throne. Well, that's the main plot and it is supported by a myriad of sub-plots and those are what make this book a real winner. The relationships, those sought after, and those that are eventually realized bear witness to the author's ability to reach into the human heart; to make the anguish, the joys, the sorrows, leap from the page while shes ties the threads of the web together. Strong characters, vivid detail and an interesting take on the Robin Hood mythology make this page turning adventure a joy to read. 5 stars
Oh what a tangled web Charlene Newcomb has weaved in the second installment of Battle Scars. The Crusaders have returned home to England without King Richard who languishes as a 'guest' of his enemies on the continent. For King and Country tells the tale of how Henry, Stephan and Robin deal with the turmoil being fomented by Prince John and his grab for the English throne. Well, that's the main plot and it is supported by a myriad of sub-plots and those are what make this book a real winner. The relationships, those sought after, and those that are eventually realized bear witness to the author's ability to reach into the human heart; to make the anguish, the joys, the sorrows, leap from the page while shes ties the threads of the web together. Strong characters, vivid detail and an interesting take on the Robin Hood mythology make this page turning adventure a joy to read. 5 stars
April 25, 2017
For King and Country has been awarded a Chill with a Book Readers' Award
www.chillwithabook.com
www.chillwithabook.com
August 26, 2019
An amazing ride indeed. Wow. 💕💕💕
January 23, 2022
A good continuation of Henry and Stephan’s story, with complications with Henry’s father and sister when they return to his home. Also a good tie-in to Robin’s story, as he has more run-ins with Prince John’s ilk and starts on his crusade of stealing from the rich’s stores and redistributing them to the poor. I also liked getting to know Allan, Little John, and Much better in this one and following their storylines.
Read
June 30, 2016I had eagerly anticipated the second installment of Char's Battle Scars series, and I was not disappointed! Only, perhaps, that the book ended. When is #3 due?
The adventures of Henry and Stephan continue back in England after their return from the Crusades. King Richard is being held for ransom, and many plots are afoot regarding Count John and his supporters, possible civil war, rumors about Richard's future, and Queen Eleanor. Not to mention the "normal" intrigue of life in these times. We are introduced to new characters: Henry's father; his sister Bea; and Stephan's brother Gil to name a few. I liked the attention spent on the female characters, plus the romance of Little John and a new twist on Robin of Louviers. I won't share any spoilers, but as someone who loved Ellis Peters' Brother Cadfael, I am delighted to find a new series in a similar vein in terms of setting. Char's books are not murder mysteries as with Cadfael and include romantic and sexual themes not copacetic with the Catholic Church, yet, I find them immensely engrossing. I almost didn't want to finish the book, but kept myself awake on my early flight finishing the last 80 pages.
Congratulations to Char Newcomb on a wonderful addition to the series. I look forward to more exploits with Henry, Stephan, Robin and the gang in future volumes.
The adventures of Henry and Stephan continue back in England after their return from the Crusades. King Richard is being held for ransom, and many plots are afoot regarding Count John and his supporters, possible civil war, rumors about Richard's future, and Queen Eleanor. Not to mention the "normal" intrigue of life in these times. We are introduced to new characters: Henry's father; his sister Bea; and Stephan's brother Gil to name a few. I liked the attention spent on the female characters, plus the romance of Little John and a new twist on Robin of Louviers. I won't share any spoilers, but as someone who loved Ellis Peters' Brother Cadfael, I am delighted to find a new series in a similar vein in terms of setting. Char's books are not murder mysteries as with Cadfael and include romantic and sexual themes not copacetic with the Catholic Church, yet, I find them immensely engrossing. I almost didn't want to finish the book, but kept myself awake on my early flight finishing the last 80 pages.
Congratulations to Char Newcomb on a wonderful addition to the series. I look forward to more exploits with Henry, Stephan, Robin and the gang in future volumes.
February 18, 2018
After finishing book #1, Men of the Cross, I just had to find out what happened to Henry and Stephen. We follow them home to England where the country is on the verge of civil war (thanks to Prince John) and more dangerous than the Crusades. At least there, you knew who your enemy was.
This brings out the Robin Hood origin story with fresh twists. I loved the story and found it to be a page turner. Very satisfying story. I was so engrossed with all these characters that if there was another book, I'd have started it too. Can't wait to #3. Highly recommended.
This brings out the Robin Hood origin story with fresh twists. I loved the story and found it to be a page turner. Very satisfying story. I was so engrossed with all these characters that if there was another book, I'd have started it too. Can't wait to #3. Highly recommended.
January 21, 2017
Reviewed by the Historical Novel Society and selected as Editor's Choice - an enormous book but engrossing from cover to cover, superbly written, wonderfully researched.
This book has also received a Discovering Diamonds Review:
'Beautifully written, chock-full of historical details imparted elegantly throughout, For King and Country is a compelling and wonderful read'.
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
www.discoveringdiamonds.blogspot.co.uk
This book has also received a Discovering Diamonds Review:
'Beautifully written, chock-full of historical details imparted elegantly throughout, For King and Country is a compelling and wonderful read'.
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
www.discoveringdiamonds.blogspot.co.uk
March 13, 2020
In For King and Country Henry de Grey returns home to Greyton no longer a naïve young man like he was when he joined the Third Crusades. Instead, he is battle-scarred with post-traumatic stress from the horrors of war and carries many heavy burdens: a secret he cannot share with anyone; the people of his village being bled dry of money and food; his loyalty to King Richard who has been captured and thrown into prison; and his resistance to John, King Richard's brother, who has followers traveling through villages with wagon loads of goods, going no one knows where or why.
While reading this book, I kept thinking of something Sir Walter Scott wrote: “Oh, what tangled web we weave…when first we practice to deceive” because Ms. Newcomb does this brilliantly. She weaves plot after plot with turns and twists. She weaves plots of marriage, secret weapon building, secret food storage, spies, espionage, traitors and loyal leaders and followers but, who can Henry de Grey trust.
Henry wants to trust his father however, Lord Edward de Grey allows the travelers with wagons of goods to spend the night at Greyton. And, Edward wants to see his son married to Elle Weston. Never mind that Henry loves another and Elle does not love Henry.
So, where are the other characters we were introduced to in Men of the Cross: Stephan, Robin, Little John, Allen, and Marian. Oh, they are there among those plots, twists, and turns. Other characters include Henry’s sister, Bea; Stephan l’Aigle’s brother, Gilbert; Tuck; Much Miller; Sarah; Robin’s father, William Carpenter; Robin and Marian’s son, Robert; Robin’s friend Milo; Elle’s brother, Edric Weston; Will Marshal; Will Scaflock and others.
After reading Ms. Newcomb's First Volume of Battle Scars, I stated that Men of the Cross had blockbuster potential. Now that I have finished the Second Volume, For King and Country, I believe that more so than ever. A two or three-hour movie would not do Battle Scars justice, especially since Volume Three is in the works. The movie would have to be in parts, similar to Hunger Games, or done as a mini-series for television. Hey, either way works for me. I just hope that movie producers, directors, assistants, etc., reads these books and say..."WOW" and march forth.
In the meantime, go purchase these books and decide for yourself.
While reading this book, I kept thinking of something Sir Walter Scott wrote: “Oh, what tangled web we weave…when first we practice to deceive” because Ms. Newcomb does this brilliantly. She weaves plot after plot with turns and twists. She weaves plots of marriage, secret weapon building, secret food storage, spies, espionage, traitors and loyal leaders and followers but, who can Henry de Grey trust.
Henry wants to trust his father however, Lord Edward de Grey allows the travelers with wagons of goods to spend the night at Greyton. And, Edward wants to see his son married to Elle Weston. Never mind that Henry loves another and Elle does not love Henry.
So, where are the other characters we were introduced to in Men of the Cross: Stephan, Robin, Little John, Allen, and Marian. Oh, they are there among those plots, twists, and turns. Other characters include Henry’s sister, Bea; Stephan l’Aigle’s brother, Gilbert; Tuck; Much Miller; Sarah; Robin’s father, William Carpenter; Robin and Marian’s son, Robert; Robin’s friend Milo; Elle’s brother, Edric Weston; Will Marshal; Will Scaflock and others.
After reading Ms. Newcomb's First Volume of Battle Scars, I stated that Men of the Cross had blockbuster potential. Now that I have finished the Second Volume, For King and Country, I believe that more so than ever. A two or three-hour movie would not do Battle Scars justice, especially since Volume Three is in the works. The movie would have to be in parts, similar to Hunger Games, or done as a mini-series for television. Hey, either way works for me. I just hope that movie producers, directors, assistants, etc., reads these books and say..."WOW" and march forth.
In the meantime, go purchase these books and decide for yourself.
February 18, 2019
All that match-making was annoying and distracting from the story. It was also used to present a convenient solution and an easy way out of a “sticky situation “ Henry found himself in. What could have been a very tightly-plotted story, was unraveled and weakened by constant barrage of unnecessary distractions. Ugh.
December 13, 2020
Loved this book.
September 26, 2016
We are proud to announce that FOR KING AND COUNTRY (Battle Scars Book 2) by Charlene Newcomb is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells a reader that this book is well worth their time and money!
Want to read
November 21, 2016Huh. If you're going away a book why make it the second book in the series?
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews