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The King's Greatest Enemy #1
In the Shadow of the Storm
Adam de Guirande owes his lord, Roger Mortimer, much more than loyalty. He owes Lord Roger for his life and all his worldly goods, he owes him for his beautiful wife – even if Kit is not quite the woman Lord Roger thinks she is. So when Lord Roger rises in rebellion against the king, Adam has no choice but to ride with him – no matter what the ultimate cost may be.
England in 1321 is a confusing place. Edward II has been forced by his barons to exile his favourite, Hugh Despenser. The barons, led by the powerful Thomas of Lancaster, Roger Mortimer and Humphrey de Bohun, have reasons to believe they have finally tamed the king. But Edward is not about to take things lying down...
Adam fears his lord has over-reached, but Adam has other matters to concern him, first and foremost his new wife, Katherine de Monmouth. His bride comes surrounded by rumours concerning her and Lord Roger, and he hates it when his brother snickers and whispers of used goods.
Kit has the misfortune of being a perfect double of Katherine de Monmouth – which is why she finds herself coerced into wedding a man under a false name.
Domestic matters become irrelevant when the king sets out to punish his rebellious barons. The Welsh Marches explode into war, and soon Lord Roger and his men are fighting for their very lives. When hope splutters and dies, when death seems inevitable, it falls to Kit to save her man – if she can.
In the Shadow of the Storm is the first in Anna Belfrage’s new series, The King’s Greatest Enemy, the story of a man torn apart by his loyalties to his lord, his king, and his wife.
England in 1321 is a confusing place. Edward II has been forced by his barons to exile his favourite, Hugh Despenser. The barons, led by the powerful Thomas of Lancaster, Roger Mortimer and Humphrey de Bohun, have reasons to believe they have finally tamed the king. But Edward is not about to take things lying down...
Adam fears his lord has over-reached, but Adam has other matters to concern him, first and foremost his new wife, Katherine de Monmouth. His bride comes surrounded by rumours concerning her and Lord Roger, and he hates it when his brother snickers and whispers of used goods.
Kit has the misfortune of being a perfect double of Katherine de Monmouth – which is why she finds herself coerced into wedding a man under a false name.
Domestic matters become irrelevant when the king sets out to punish his rebellious barons. The Welsh Marches explode into war, and soon Lord Roger and his men are fighting for their very lives. When hope splutters and dies, when death seems inevitable, it falls to Kit to save her man – if she can.
In the Shadow of the Storm is the first in Anna Belfrage’s new series, The King’s Greatest Enemy, the story of a man torn apart by his loyalties to his lord, his king, and his wife.
385 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2015
308 people are currently reading
501 people want to read
About the author
Anna Belfrage
37 books286 followersAnna was raised abroad, on a pungent mix of Latin American culture, English history and Swedish traditions. As a result she's multilingual and most of her reading is historical- both non-fiction and fiction. Possessed of a lively imagination, she has drawers full of potential stories, all of them set in the past. She was always going to be a writer - or a historian, preferably both. Ideally, Anna aspired to becoming a pioneer time traveller, but science has as yet not advanced to the point of making that possible. Instead she ended up with a degree in Business and Finance, with very little time to spare for her most favourite pursuit. Still, one does as one must, and in between juggling a challenging career Anna raised her four children on a potent combination of invented stories, historical debates and masses of good food and homemade cakes. They seem to thrive…
For years she combined a challenging career with four children and the odd snatched moment of writing. Nowadays Anna spends most of her spare time at her writing desk. The children are half grown, the house is at times eerily silent and she slips away into her imaginary world, with her imaginary characters. Every now and then the one and only man in her life pops his head in to ensure she's still there.
For additional information regarding Anna, her characters, extra scenes, and teasers for her next books, have a look at Anna's website at: www.annabelfrage.com
For years she combined a challenging career with four children and the odd snatched moment of writing. Nowadays Anna spends most of her spare time at her writing desk. The children are half grown, the house is at times eerily silent and she slips away into her imaginary world, with her imaginary characters. Every now and then the one and only man in her life pops his head in to ensure she's still there.
For additional information regarding Anna, her characters, extra scenes, and teasers for her next books, have a look at Anna's website at: www.annabelfrage.com
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May 17, 2025
Nice and entertaining historical fiction based on true events.
What did I expect from this book? War, love and great passion in both themes.
Was I satisfied? Yes and no.
___ THE PLOT IN A NUTSHELL ___ England, 1321.
Adam de Guirande owes his lord, Roger Mortimer, much more than loyalty. He owes him his life and all his possessions, he also owes him his beautiful wife, even if Kit is not exactly the woman Lord Roger thinks she is.
Kit, half-sister and perfect copy of Katherine de Monmouth, has been kidnapped and forced to marry Adam under a false name, since the real Katherine has run away.
Rumors about Katherine's virginity (who is actually Kit), jealousy, pride and strong attraction that is turning into real feelings, will not make married life easy.
Domestic matters, however, become irrelevant when the king decides to punish his rebellious barons.
So, when Lord Roger goes to fight, Adam has no choice but to ride with him, no matter the cost.
_____________________
Overall, I enjoyed the book and rate it a full 4 stars. However, it lacked that certain something extra that makes a story truly unique and compelling, the kind that excites you so much that you want to reread it.
___ THE MAIN CHARACTERS ___
The characters stayed with me for days after I finished reading their story. However, I must confess that it took until about 35% of the way through the book before I started to "like" the hero.
Even after my dislike faded, I never perceived him as a true hero.
Adam followed his lord into battle for several reasons: affection, gratitude, and duty.
He was injured, suffered a long imprisonment, and endured unjust torture, and was betrayed by someone close to him.
Yet, I never saw him do anything particularly daring in war or for his family.
He had a lot of sex with his wife; much of his relationship with Kit (aside from moments of touchiness and stubbornness) takes place in bed.
In my opinion, the author focused too much on Adam's beauty, his devotion to his lord, and his love (expressed through words and sex) for his wife.
The writer neglected to have him perform brave and noteworthy actions that would have showcased his courage and big heart.
As I said, after 35% of the book, the character finally overcomes that antipathy that almost made me stop reading.
However, the only two times we see him take action (when he kills an attacker of his wife and helps someone escape from captivity), they are described so briefly that they don't feel significant.
In contrast, the heroine demonstrates grit and determination. She transforms an unfortunate event into an opportunity for love and saves both her beloved and herself "by the skin of their teeth" several times.
Kit is the character the author focuses on the most. She is immediately presented as a victim of circumstance who doesn't wallow in her misfortune.
Instead, she reacts to adversity, creating her own fortune through her ingenuity, good heart, ability to forgive, optimism even in desperate moments, and sheer willpower.
She is a resilient young woman who only falls slightly into stubbornness and whims at the end, but I challenge any other woman in her place not to behave similarly, you know: too much of a thing can spoil it.
_____ One of Adam's brothers, the young priest William, is more than a side character, he is practically a co-protagonist for 80% of the story.
He is a positive character, always by Kit's side and ready to support her and Adam.
What I didn't like is that the author makes him disappear at a certain point, giving him another role, and we hear nothing more about him.
He appears twice briefly during a rescue and escape, and then vanishes. I was disappointed by this.
Perhaps the character will reappear in later books?
I hope so, and I also hope the author doesn't eliminate him by killing him off, as she did with other characters we grew fond of, only to find out about their deaths casually through dialogue.
The book is quite long (for my standards), and I felt like every action was treated as a minor addition to the "heartbreaking" love story between the two protagonists (a love that unfolds mostly in bed... which isn't a problem because it's never vulgar, but love isn't only shown through sex).
What I really appreciate in historical fiction is when it seamlessly blends imagined elements with real historical events, featuring both fictional and historical figures.
The author succeeded admirably in this, to the point that I felt compelled to expand my historical knowledge by researching online through articles and Wikipedia.
___ HISTORICAL PART ___
The historical event that inspired the author and around which the destinies of Kit, Adam, and their loved ones revolve is a rebellion of some barons against King Edward II of England, who despotically gave his favorite lands already owned by barons and other nobles.
The king's favorite was the villain of the story, who besieged castles, imprisoned women and children, and mercilessly killed even those who had surrendered.
Actually, the situation is more complex and compelling than I've described, but if I explained it in more detail, it would diminish the pleasure of reading and discovering the historical elements intertwined with the author's imagination.
___ HISTORICAL CHARACTERS ___
Lord Roger Mortimer, his wife, and the king's favorite Hugh Despenser all play fundamental roles in the book. All of them are well portrayed.
The author's HISTORICAL NOTES are well-written and quite exhaustive regarding both events and characters.
While most authors place historical notes at the end to freely explain things without revealing spoilers, I always read them first because they help me understand the plot better and gain a broader, more satisfying view of the whole story.
If a story is well-told, no spoiler can ruin it for me. :-)
----> Clean language.
----> Several hot sex scenes, but never vulgar.
----> If you are approaching the reading, you too may hate the hero, hold on, after the first few chapters, he becomes a decent character.
IN CONCLUSION:
Despite the complaints I mentioned at the beginning of my review, the Kit-Adam couple resonated with me, and I will definitely read the sequel.
Thank you for reading my opinion. I hope it can be helpful in deciding whether or not to read this series.
What did I expect from this book? War, love and great passion in both themes.
Was I satisfied? Yes and no.
___ THE PLOT IN A NUTSHELL ___ England, 1321.
Adam de Guirande owes his lord, Roger Mortimer, much more than loyalty. He owes him his life and all his possessions, he also owes him his beautiful wife, even if Kit is not exactly the woman Lord Roger thinks she is.
Kit, half-sister and perfect copy of Katherine de Monmouth, has been kidnapped and forced to marry Adam under a false name, since the real Katherine has run away.
Rumors about Katherine's virginity (who is actually Kit), jealousy, pride and strong attraction that is turning into real feelings, will not make married life easy.
Domestic matters, however, become irrelevant when the king decides to punish his rebellious barons.
So, when Lord Roger goes to fight, Adam has no choice but to ride with him, no matter the cost.
_____________________
Overall, I enjoyed the book and rate it a full 4 stars. However, it lacked that certain something extra that makes a story truly unique and compelling, the kind that excites you so much that you want to reread it.
___ THE MAIN CHARACTERS ___
The characters stayed with me for days after I finished reading their story. However, I must confess that it took until about 35% of the way through the book before I started to "like" the hero.
Even after my dislike faded, I never perceived him as a true hero.
Adam followed his lord into battle for several reasons: affection, gratitude, and duty.
He was injured, suffered a long imprisonment, and endured unjust torture, and was betrayed by someone close to him.
Yet, I never saw him do anything particularly daring in war or for his family.
He had a lot of sex with his wife; much of his relationship with Kit (aside from moments of touchiness and stubbornness) takes place in bed.
In my opinion, the author focused too much on Adam's beauty, his devotion to his lord, and his love (expressed through words and sex) for his wife.
The writer neglected to have him perform brave and noteworthy actions that would have showcased his courage and big heart.
As I said, after 35% of the book, the character finally overcomes that antipathy that almost made me stop reading.
However, the only two times we see him take action (when he kills an attacker of his wife and helps someone escape from captivity), they are described so briefly that they don't feel significant.
In contrast, the heroine demonstrates grit and determination. She transforms an unfortunate event into an opportunity for love and saves both her beloved and herself "by the skin of their teeth" several times.
Kit is the character the author focuses on the most. She is immediately presented as a victim of circumstance who doesn't wallow in her misfortune.
Instead, she reacts to adversity, creating her own fortune through her ingenuity, good heart, ability to forgive, optimism even in desperate moments, and sheer willpower.
She is a resilient young woman who only falls slightly into stubbornness and whims at the end, but I challenge any other woman in her place not to behave similarly, you know: too much of a thing can spoil it.
_____ One of Adam's brothers, the young priest William, is more than a side character, he is practically a co-protagonist for 80% of the story.
He is a positive character, always by Kit's side and ready to support her and Adam.
What I didn't like is that the author makes him disappear at a certain point, giving him another role, and we hear nothing more about him.
He appears twice briefly during a rescue and escape, and then vanishes. I was disappointed by this.
Perhaps the character will reappear in later books?
I hope so, and I also hope the author doesn't eliminate him by killing him off, as she did with other characters we grew fond of, only to find out about their deaths casually through dialogue.
The book is quite long (for my standards), and I felt like every action was treated as a minor addition to the "heartbreaking" love story between the two protagonists (a love that unfolds mostly in bed... which isn't a problem because it's never vulgar, but love isn't only shown through sex).
What I really appreciate in historical fiction is when it seamlessly blends imagined elements with real historical events, featuring both fictional and historical figures.
The author succeeded admirably in this, to the point that I felt compelled to expand my historical knowledge by researching online through articles and Wikipedia.
___ HISTORICAL PART ___
The historical event that inspired the author and around which the destinies of Kit, Adam, and their loved ones revolve is a rebellion of some barons against King Edward II of England, who despotically gave his favorite lands already owned by barons and other nobles.
The king's favorite was the villain of the story, who besieged castles, imprisoned women and children, and mercilessly killed even those who had surrendered.
Actually, the situation is more complex and compelling than I've described, but if I explained it in more detail, it would diminish the pleasure of reading and discovering the historical elements intertwined with the author's imagination.
___ HISTORICAL CHARACTERS ___
Lord Roger Mortimer, his wife, and the king's favorite Hugh Despenser all play fundamental roles in the book. All of them are well portrayed.
The author's HISTORICAL NOTES are well-written and quite exhaustive regarding both events and characters.
While most authors place historical notes at the end to freely explain things without revealing spoilers, I always read them first because they help me understand the plot better and gain a broader, more satisfying view of the whole story.
If a story is well-told, no spoiler can ruin it for me. :-)
----> Clean language.
----> Several hot sex scenes, but never vulgar.
----> If you are approaching the reading, you too may hate the hero, hold on, after the first few chapters, he becomes a decent character.
IN CONCLUSION:
Despite the complaints I mentioned at the beginning of my review, the Kit-Adam couple resonated with me, and I will definitely read the sequel.
Thank you for reading my opinion. I hope it can be helpful in deciding whether or not to read this series.
August 31, 2016
I’m going to be 100% honest from the start of this review.. I’m not a romance fan.. it’s not my genre but I do enjoy a good historical fiction book when the romance is done right and this is what Anna Belfrage has done perfectly. Sometimes I think authors put in a sex scene just for the sake of it but when Anna has done this it brings something to the story.. makes the connection between the two main characters believable
The tale starts with the abduction of Kit..she has been sheltered her whole life but now her mother is gone no one is there to protect her and she is thrust into the life of Katherine.. unbeknown to Kit at the time that they share the same father. Kit is brought in to help when Katherine runs off from an arranged marriage..they need some to take her place
This is where we met Adam, loved his character. Loyal and brave to fault.
Mix in with this wedding a tale of politics, blackmail, deception and murder and you have one hell of a tale.
The romance the book is just the underlying story that plays out, the true story for me was about loyalty which I loved. Adam de Guirande is split in two wanting to fight for his lord whom he owes so much or to stay with Kit who has given him another purpose in life. Kit’s tale is also focuses around loyalty..the love that grows for Adam overtime bringing her to risk everything for the man she loves
For me the way these two interacted throughout the book worked well, at times both were stubborn and annoying but it made the relationship feel real rather than forced. I really enjoyed that the tale was shown from both sides and highlighted a woman’s worth back in that age when they were viewed more as property but at the same time it was great to see that love could still spark
The only thing I would have liked to see was at the beginning when Kit replaces Katherine would be more of a struggle for her. She seemed to take to the role quickly and didn’t have too many problems fooling people who Katherine met beforehand..one in a intimate way.
I won’t spoil the plot any more but seriously I really loved the tale. With rebellion afoot you know not everyone will make it out alive and there are some very interesting and manipulative characters to meet along the way. Two of the best characters are Adam's brothers.. i'll say no more than that :)
While Adam and Kit are completely fictional characters the rebellion itself is fact and this led to the perfect setting where the author could let their wonderful imagination go. The book relies more heavily on the plot than some books which focus a lot on historical detail like descriptiveness of locations and events but that helped the book flow better and the plot definitely had me hooked.. I didn’t even care where the characters were.. I just wanted to know what would happen next
This is the perfect historical fiction book if you are looking for a little less battlefield action..this tale works well without the extra bloodshed.
Loved it
The tale starts with the abduction of Kit..she has been sheltered her whole life but now her mother is gone no one is there to protect her and she is thrust into the life of Katherine.. unbeknown to Kit at the time that they share the same father. Kit is brought in to help when Katherine runs off from an arranged marriage..they need some to take her place
This is where we met Adam, loved his character. Loyal and brave to fault.
Mix in with this wedding a tale of politics, blackmail, deception and murder and you have one hell of a tale.
The romance the book is just the underlying story that plays out, the true story for me was about loyalty which I loved. Adam de Guirande is split in two wanting to fight for his lord whom he owes so much or to stay with Kit who has given him another purpose in life. Kit’s tale is also focuses around loyalty..the love that grows for Adam overtime bringing her to risk everything for the man she loves
For me the way these two interacted throughout the book worked well, at times both were stubborn and annoying but it made the relationship feel real rather than forced. I really enjoyed that the tale was shown from both sides and highlighted a woman’s worth back in that age when they were viewed more as property but at the same time it was great to see that love could still spark
The only thing I would have liked to see was at the beginning when Kit replaces Katherine would be more of a struggle for her. She seemed to take to the role quickly and didn’t have too many problems fooling people who Katherine met beforehand..one in a intimate way.
I won’t spoil the plot any more but seriously I really loved the tale. With rebellion afoot you know not everyone will make it out alive and there are some very interesting and manipulative characters to meet along the way. Two of the best characters are Adam's brothers.. i'll say no more than that :)
While Adam and Kit are completely fictional characters the rebellion itself is fact and this led to the perfect setting where the author could let their wonderful imagination go. The book relies more heavily on the plot than some books which focus a lot on historical detail like descriptiveness of locations and events but that helped the book flow better and the plot definitely had me hooked.. I didn’t even care where the characters were.. I just wanted to know what would happen next
This is the perfect historical fiction book if you are looking for a little less battlefield action..this tale works well without the extra bloodshed.
Loved it
December 17, 2015
In the Shadow of the Storm is the eighth novel I have read by Anna Belfrage in just a few years. However, it’s her first novel in a new series, The King’s Greatest Enemy, which is set in England 1321 during the time of Edward II, and so, I read it trying to look at it completely not reliant on her last series, but yet, I still found myself comparing them. I wanted to see if Anna could pull off giving new characters original personalities within a new, and entirely different, plot and location. I suppose that’s the critical eye in me.
What I found was that Anna still has her unique voice, a mixture of humorous dialogue and situations, all embroiled within some type of plot where things are made strenuous by some sort of outside obstacle outside of the control of her protagonist. This time, Kit ((illegitimate daughter of Alais Coucy and Thomas de Monmouth), who looks an awful lot like her more rambunctious half sister Katherine de Monmouth, is demanded by her step-mother to stand-in as a look alike for this sister and marry Adam (foster son of Sir Roger Mortimer). Of course, Adam thinks she is Katherine, which poses all sorts of issues.
For the first 100 pages or so, this issue is really what is being set-up and fleshed out, and it seems that as much as we loved the Graham couple’s banter, we should get used to Kit and Adam’s banter quite well also. Anna has a way of writing a woman who puts her foot down and doesn’t settle for anything but true love and respect. Of course, she also has a sense of humor. On the flip side, her man generally is stubborn, yet loving and loyal. In this regard, Anna has succeeded again as we watch their struggle in understanding one another. Yet, I believe she’s also been able to completely create for us characters who have their own distinct traits as well. They aren’t copies. In a way, this couple together is a bit stronger to me. They live in tough and turbulent times, which is perfect for Anna to write in, as she does well writing with a juxtoposition of gentle loyalty versus intrigue, death, and violence. Love and loss. Pleasure and pain.
Anna completely manifests her characters into your heart and captivates you with their dialogue so that you are drawn to propel yourself through the pages. Her main characters are what makes her historical fiction really romantic, as you watch here Kit and Adam’s love unfold, but it’s done in such a natural and effortless way that it really entwines into the whole back story and platform that she sets them into, as they are then surrounded by a whole cast of characters.
In the Shadows of the Storm gives us great supporting characters in Mabel, Kit’s maid and confidant, and Hugh Despenser, the villain of the story (and a true historical person) who is a favorite of Edward II and causes all sort of issues in the 14th century leading to the Despenser Wars. Anna surely writes him to the degree that makes us cringe from his foul scent. He’s very vindictive. Roger Mortimer leading the revolt against the King is also well-done, though he a little bit of a randy character. We don’t know whether to like him or hate him at times. I suppose history has given us that idea of him too, though. I’m not sure I can give with accurate summation how I feel about how Anna presented Mortimer. All of those men at that time vying for power were all the same. Selfish. However, he’s why Adam ascends into the story, as Sir Roger serves as Adam’s foster father, dragging Adam along into his drama and therefore, as well, the plot of the story.
As you can gather, I believe that In the Shadow of the Storm is very character and dialogue driven, as that is what pulls me into the book and keeps me reading, however, there are strong under layers of plot, development, and historical research. It’s evident she’s planned this strong foundation and did a great amount of 14th century research into the time of Edward II and these uprisings, as Edward is not a popular king and not one often written on. The research and historical portions of the book are not forced though, and doesn’t bog down the story, but rather, endeavors behind in order to lift up the characters. The historical setting is what creates the drama and the angst in order to let the courage, strength, and tenacity of the characters shine.
In terms of research, you can tell she’s also absorbed it and easily planted it on each page before our eyes in her descriptions of clothing, food, sights, smells, medicinal cures (i.e. “elderberry cordial laced with linseed oil”). All this gives you a wonderful sense of place in which to picture the characters.
Anna writes with humor and a flowing style, yet she also presents with grit and tenacity. In the Shadow of the Storm is a book that has set-up what I hope is a fabulous new series by Anna in which we see Kit and Adam grow and achieve and conquer all that stands to come before them. It’s only the first book, but I think I already have a slight inkling that this series is one that I’ll love as much, or maybe more, as her last one.
I am giving 4 stars so I can see where she takes the series and how much better it can get.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for honest review, which I've given.
What I found was that Anna still has her unique voice, a mixture of humorous dialogue and situations, all embroiled within some type of plot where things are made strenuous by some sort of outside obstacle outside of the control of her protagonist. This time, Kit ((illegitimate daughter of Alais Coucy and Thomas de Monmouth), who looks an awful lot like her more rambunctious half sister Katherine de Monmouth, is demanded by her step-mother to stand-in as a look alike for this sister and marry Adam (foster son of Sir Roger Mortimer). Of course, Adam thinks she is Katherine, which poses all sorts of issues.
For the first 100 pages or so, this issue is really what is being set-up and fleshed out, and it seems that as much as we loved the Graham couple’s banter, we should get used to Kit and Adam’s banter quite well also. Anna has a way of writing a woman who puts her foot down and doesn’t settle for anything but true love and respect. Of course, she also has a sense of humor. On the flip side, her man generally is stubborn, yet loving and loyal. In this regard, Anna has succeeded again as we watch their struggle in understanding one another. Yet, I believe she’s also been able to completely create for us characters who have their own distinct traits as well. They aren’t copies. In a way, this couple together is a bit stronger to me. They live in tough and turbulent times, which is perfect for Anna to write in, as she does well writing with a juxtoposition of gentle loyalty versus intrigue, death, and violence. Love and loss. Pleasure and pain.
Anna completely manifests her characters into your heart and captivates you with their dialogue so that you are drawn to propel yourself through the pages. Her main characters are what makes her historical fiction really romantic, as you watch here Kit and Adam’s love unfold, but it’s done in such a natural and effortless way that it really entwines into the whole back story and platform that she sets them into, as they are then surrounded by a whole cast of characters.
In the Shadows of the Storm gives us great supporting characters in Mabel, Kit’s maid and confidant, and Hugh Despenser, the villain of the story (and a true historical person) who is a favorite of Edward II and causes all sort of issues in the 14th century leading to the Despenser Wars. Anna surely writes him to the degree that makes us cringe from his foul scent. He’s very vindictive. Roger Mortimer leading the revolt against the King is also well-done, though he a little bit of a randy character. We don’t know whether to like him or hate him at times. I suppose history has given us that idea of him too, though. I’m not sure I can give with accurate summation how I feel about how Anna presented Mortimer. All of those men at that time vying for power were all the same. Selfish. However, he’s why Adam ascends into the story, as Sir Roger serves as Adam’s foster father, dragging Adam along into his drama and therefore, as well, the plot of the story.
As you can gather, I believe that In the Shadow of the Storm is very character and dialogue driven, as that is what pulls me into the book and keeps me reading, however, there are strong under layers of plot, development, and historical research. It’s evident she’s planned this strong foundation and did a great amount of 14th century research into the time of Edward II and these uprisings, as Edward is not a popular king and not one often written on. The research and historical portions of the book are not forced though, and doesn’t bog down the story, but rather, endeavors behind in order to lift up the characters. The historical setting is what creates the drama and the angst in order to let the courage, strength, and tenacity of the characters shine.
In terms of research, you can tell she’s also absorbed it and easily planted it on each page before our eyes in her descriptions of clothing, food, sights, smells, medicinal cures (i.e. “elderberry cordial laced with linseed oil”). All this gives you a wonderful sense of place in which to picture the characters.
Anna writes with humor and a flowing style, yet she also presents with grit and tenacity. In the Shadow of the Storm is a book that has set-up what I hope is a fabulous new series by Anna in which we see Kit and Adam grow and achieve and conquer all that stands to come before them. It’s only the first book, but I think I already have a slight inkling that this series is one that I’ll love as much, or maybe more, as her last one.
I am giving 4 stars so I can see where she takes the series and how much better it can get.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for honest review, which I've given.
December 29, 2018
This delightful book has been my very first acquaintance with this author, and I have to acknowledge that this book has captivated me right from the start till the very end.
Familiar with Paul Doherty's Hugh Corbett and Mathilda of Westminster series concerning this period of history, I can say for certain that this book has been a most wonderful addition of the history of King Edward II's reign.
The historical details concerning this tale have been very well researched and superbly used by this author within this exciting historical adventure.
Storytelling is of a top-notch quality, because every character within this wonderful tale comes vividly to life, and all interactions between these same characters, whether they are real historical people or fictional ones, are really very lifelike.
The main historical characters are on the one hand King Edward II, his adviser and bloodhound Hugh Despenser and a few loyal Barons, while on the other hand you have Baron Roger Mortimer, the Earl of Hereford and the Earl of Lancaster who start a rebellion against their King because of their animosity towards Hugh Despenser, and the midst of it all there are our main characters Adam de Guirande and his wife Kit.
The story itself starts off in the year AD 1321 and will end well in the year AD 1323, and it begins with the abduction of Kit, she's the bastard daughter of Sir Thomas de Monmouth and her mother Alaïs, and Kit is to replace her half-sister Katherine who has eloped to Spain with her lover, in a wedding with Adam de Guirande.
When news reaches Kit that the real Katherine de Monmouth has returned to England happenings start to boil up in Kit's neighbourhood, firstly with the poisoning of Katherine by Lady Cecily, Kit's instigator abductor, and secondly with the fall-out and thus war between Baron Mortimer and his factions against the King and his followers.
The book contains besides great storytelling about the Civil War in England between Mortimer and his King also the beginning of the cunningly plotting Queen Isabella who will more and more step away from her husband King and thus moving towards Mortimer, while Adam de Guirande has to suffer first the treachery by his step-brother Guy and secondly while in imprisonment the vulgair painful attention of Hugh Despenser.
And so this is a most enjoyable and fast-paced read where deceit, treachery, love and hate are highlighted in a very clear fashion, and which will thrill and entertain you with the especially sparkling passionate love-scenes between Adam and Kit within their marriage with all its ups-and-downs in a life full with danger and death.
Very much recommended, for this lady author deserves much more recognition, and because this tale is a very captivating read I look very much forward to its sequel, and that's why I call this book: "A Fascinating Begin Of This Series"!
Familiar with Paul Doherty's Hugh Corbett and Mathilda of Westminster series concerning this period of history, I can say for certain that this book has been a most wonderful addition of the history of King Edward II's reign.
The historical details concerning this tale have been very well researched and superbly used by this author within this exciting historical adventure.
Storytelling is of a top-notch quality, because every character within this wonderful tale comes vividly to life, and all interactions between these same characters, whether they are real historical people or fictional ones, are really very lifelike.
The main historical characters are on the one hand King Edward II, his adviser and bloodhound Hugh Despenser and a few loyal Barons, while on the other hand you have Baron Roger Mortimer, the Earl of Hereford and the Earl of Lancaster who start a rebellion against their King because of their animosity towards Hugh Despenser, and the midst of it all there are our main characters Adam de Guirande and his wife Kit.
The story itself starts off in the year AD 1321 and will end well in the year AD 1323, and it begins with the abduction of Kit, she's the bastard daughter of Sir Thomas de Monmouth and her mother Alaïs, and Kit is to replace her half-sister Katherine who has eloped to Spain with her lover, in a wedding with Adam de Guirande.
When news reaches Kit that the real Katherine de Monmouth has returned to England happenings start to boil up in Kit's neighbourhood, firstly with the poisoning of Katherine by Lady Cecily, Kit's instigator abductor, and secondly with the fall-out and thus war between Baron Mortimer and his factions against the King and his followers.
The book contains besides great storytelling about the Civil War in England between Mortimer and his King also the beginning of the cunningly plotting Queen Isabella who will more and more step away from her husband King and thus moving towards Mortimer, while Adam de Guirande has to suffer first the treachery by his step-brother Guy and secondly while in imprisonment the vulgair painful attention of Hugh Despenser.
And so this is a most enjoyable and fast-paced read where deceit, treachery, love and hate are highlighted in a very clear fashion, and which will thrill and entertain you with the especially sparkling passionate love-scenes between Adam and Kit within their marriage with all its ups-and-downs in a life full with danger and death.
Very much recommended, for this lady author deserves much more recognition, and because this tale is a very captivating read I look very much forward to its sequel, and that's why I call this book: "A Fascinating Begin Of This Series"!
July 23, 2019
In the Shadow of the Storm is the first in the series of The King’s Greatest Enemy.
Lord Roger Mortimer saved the life of Adam de Guirande as a child, now an adult and knighted Sir Adam will so anything in his allegiance to his lord including marry. But is the lady he marries really who they both think she is?
The Guirandes are fictional but Roger Mortimer, 3rd Baron Mortimer, 1st Earl of March was very real and most certainly rose in rebellion against the king, the first instalment follows Mortimer, Adam and his new wife Kit. When the rebellion begins Adam has no choice but to ride with Mortimer whether Kit supports this or not.
Before they can ride off to war Adam discovers his new wife Katherine de Monmouth is actually Kit de Courcy both daughter of De Monmouth but different mother's and until now Kit had not been known about to any but her parents. Katherine was having an affair with Mortimer which Adam is jealous over until he realises he didn't marry Katherine he married Kit. But was this betrayal any better?
The war makes Kit realise she has fallen for Adam and will do anything to save his life but will it be enough? Hugh Despenser, enemy of Mortimer is determined they should all die, so who lives and who dies?
Fantastic historical fiction with romance thrown in. I love the characters. Belfrage has created characters you just cant help but love or hate. The depiction of Despenser is incredible! I couldn't put this down until I'd finished. I'm already lining up the next in the series!
Lord Roger Mortimer saved the life of Adam de Guirande as a child, now an adult and knighted Sir Adam will so anything in his allegiance to his lord including marry. But is the lady he marries really who they both think she is?
The Guirandes are fictional but Roger Mortimer, 3rd Baron Mortimer, 1st Earl of March was very real and most certainly rose in rebellion against the king, the first instalment follows Mortimer, Adam and his new wife Kit. When the rebellion begins Adam has no choice but to ride with Mortimer whether Kit supports this or not.
Before they can ride off to war Adam discovers his new wife Katherine de Monmouth is actually Kit de Courcy both daughter of De Monmouth but different mother's and until now Kit had not been known about to any but her parents. Katherine was having an affair with Mortimer which Adam is jealous over until he realises he didn't marry Katherine he married Kit. But was this betrayal any better?
The war makes Kit realise she has fallen for Adam and will do anything to save his life but will it be enough? Hugh Despenser, enemy of Mortimer is determined they should all die, so who lives and who dies?
Fantastic historical fiction with romance thrown in. I love the characters. Belfrage has created characters you just cant help but love or hate. The depiction of Despenser is incredible! I couldn't put this down until I'd finished. I'm already lining up the next in the series!
February 12, 2017
Despite needing to suspend disbelief (especially around the scenes at the beginning....well, the middle too.....and historical howlers this was surprisingly readable for a romance with historical context. Quite surprising!
May 7, 2020
This style of historical fiction did not appeal but should interest those who like things heavy on the romance side.
Looks like she has 4 books in this series "King's Greatest Enemy"
Gave it a try.
Kindle Unlimited
Looks like she has 4 books in this series "King's Greatest Enemy"
Gave it a try.
Kindle Unlimited
December 1, 2015
3.5 Stars. I have been wanting to read an Anna Belfrage book for ages, so when I heard she had a new series coming out set during the reign of Edward II, I was all in. I've read a couple of books from this time period, but this is the first one from the camp of the rebellious rebels and the first one to portray Roger Mortimer as more of a hero than a villain, which I found interesting.
The story begins with Kit de Courcy being kidnapped, drugged, and threatened into pretending to be her lookalike half sister, Katherine de Monmouth, in order for an important political alliance to move forward since the real Katherine has fled the country. Desperate to keep her beloved country home and her tenants safe, Kit agrees to go along. The deal is significantly sweetened by a wedding night with a handsome and passionate new husband.
Adam de Guirande will do anything for his lord and foster father Lord Roger, even marry the woman Lord Roger is rumored to have been bedding and look the other way while he continues to do so. But Adam doesn't count on finding his beautiful new wife so sweet and chaste, nor does he count on falling in love with her. The swirling rumors and laughing whispers that follow him make for a difficult honeymoon period and threaten to ruin what could be a wonderful relationship. In fact, Adam acts like a right prick for a while, especially after the truth of Kit's identity is revealed, and I was burning through the pages to see if he would come to his senses before Kit left him for good.
But the newlyweds soon have more pressing issues to contend with as Lord Roger openly revolts against the king over the return of his favorite from exile, Hugh Despenser, and Adam follows him into battle. Betrayed by another baron, Lord Roger and his followers find themselves at the mercy of an angry king, and Adam ends up in prison, where he becomes a target for a sadistic Despenser's torture. And Kit has her hands full at home warding off a takeover attempt by her husband's jealous younger brother. When she learns of her husband's mistreatment in prison, she takes matters into her own hands. But there's still the matter of Lord Roger's imprisonment and an emboldened Despenser wreaking vengeance across the country on behalf of a weak king. The rebellion has been quashed for now, but the barons are angrier than ever, and Queen Isabella is laying her own plans for a husband who allows his favorite to rule in his place.
Throughout all of this drama, Kit and Adam cope with getting to know each other, rebuilding an ailing manor, starting a family, and staying a step ahead of Despenser, and Kit struggles with Adam's devotion to his lord, seemingly at the expense of his family. Adam is so devoted to Lord Roger that he never questions why the man who raised him like a son gave him a wife he fully intended to keep having relations with, which doesn't seem to me to be the sort of thing an honorable man would do to his foster son. I'm a little worried about the imbalance in that relationship and what that will mean in future books, and I think Kit has every right to be worried about the beautiful and conniving Queen Isabella.
I enjoyed this first installment in The King's Greatest Enemy series, though it turned out to be not quite what I was expecting. There's a heavier focus on the romance and lots of tasteful sex, which is totally fine by me, but I point it out for those readers who prefer their historical fiction with less of those elements. The plot is exciting, with one dramatic development after another, but even so, the pacing lagged a bit in a few places, and there were a few instances of more modern language that stood out to me. A large portion of this book is devoted to setting the stage and the players, and I think the real meat of the history of this contentious time period will be revealed in future books. But this book does a nice job of depicting the effects rebellion by a country's nobles has on their followers and the common folk and does not shy away from portraying the harshness of the times, particularly for women. I'm looking forward to going back and reading Ms. Belfrage's earlier series, The Graham Saga, and seeing what's in store for Kit and Adam as this series progresses.
The story begins with Kit de Courcy being kidnapped, drugged, and threatened into pretending to be her lookalike half sister, Katherine de Monmouth, in order for an important political alliance to move forward since the real Katherine has fled the country. Desperate to keep her beloved country home and her tenants safe, Kit agrees to go along. The deal is significantly sweetened by a wedding night with a handsome and passionate new husband.
Adam de Guirande will do anything for his lord and foster father Lord Roger, even marry the woman Lord Roger is rumored to have been bedding and look the other way while he continues to do so. But Adam doesn't count on finding his beautiful new wife so sweet and chaste, nor does he count on falling in love with her. The swirling rumors and laughing whispers that follow him make for a difficult honeymoon period and threaten to ruin what could be a wonderful relationship. In fact, Adam acts like a right prick for a while, especially after the truth of Kit's identity is revealed, and I was burning through the pages to see if he would come to his senses before Kit left him for good.
But the newlyweds soon have more pressing issues to contend with as Lord Roger openly revolts against the king over the return of his favorite from exile, Hugh Despenser, and Adam follows him into battle. Betrayed by another baron, Lord Roger and his followers find themselves at the mercy of an angry king, and Adam ends up in prison, where he becomes a target for a sadistic Despenser's torture. And Kit has her hands full at home warding off a takeover attempt by her husband's jealous younger brother. When she learns of her husband's mistreatment in prison, she takes matters into her own hands. But there's still the matter of Lord Roger's imprisonment and an emboldened Despenser wreaking vengeance across the country on behalf of a weak king. The rebellion has been quashed for now, but the barons are angrier than ever, and Queen Isabella is laying her own plans for a husband who allows his favorite to rule in his place.
Throughout all of this drama, Kit and Adam cope with getting to know each other, rebuilding an ailing manor, starting a family, and staying a step ahead of Despenser, and Kit struggles with Adam's devotion to his lord, seemingly at the expense of his family. Adam is so devoted to Lord Roger that he never questions why the man who raised him like a son gave him a wife he fully intended to keep having relations with, which doesn't seem to me to be the sort of thing an honorable man would do to his foster son. I'm a little worried about the imbalance in that relationship and what that will mean in future books, and I think Kit has every right to be worried about the beautiful and conniving Queen Isabella.
I enjoyed this first installment in The King's Greatest Enemy series, though it turned out to be not quite what I was expecting. There's a heavier focus on the romance and lots of tasteful sex, which is totally fine by me, but I point it out for those readers who prefer their historical fiction with less of those elements. The plot is exciting, with one dramatic development after another, but even so, the pacing lagged a bit in a few places, and there were a few instances of more modern language that stood out to me. A large portion of this book is devoted to setting the stage and the players, and I think the real meat of the history of this contentious time period will be revealed in future books. But this book does a nice job of depicting the effects rebellion by a country's nobles has on their followers and the common folk and does not shy away from portraying the harshness of the times, particularly for women. I'm looking forward to going back and reading Ms. Belfrage's earlier series, The Graham Saga, and seeing what's in store for Kit and Adam as this series progresses.
November 3, 2015
I have to admit to a degree of worry as I started to read this new book, because I am a great fan of Ms Belfrage's Graham Saga.
My first worry was that it wasn't going to be as good - and my second was that it was going to be Alex and Matthew in the 14th century: a trap that many successful authors fall into, of replicating carbon copies of their successful characters in another period of history.
Well, I needn't have worried on either head.
I am very fond of Alex and Matthew Graham, but there is always - in my reading - that element of tension in their relationship. With Adam and Kit, despite the somewhat - unusual - beginning of their marriage, there is never any doubt for me that no matter how tumultous this period of history is, their love is solid. This is not, I don't think, a will-they won't-they story, set against a faintly-drawn generic historical background. It's a story of will Fate let them, in what has to be one of the most violent, tumultous, passionate, uninhibited periods of English history. A man and a woman, who find each other, and are determined that conflicting loyalty, intrigue, and murder will come between them.
Be not misled, gentle reader. We are not in the realms of courtly love here. We are dealing with a real and passionate period, where a brutal punishment can be meted out to a man in scenes of graphic savagery, and a woman be poisoned to death by her own family - and where the same man who raises a sword with violent skill, can make love to his wife with kindness and tenderness.
We are also dealing with a very accomplished author, who can describe love as well as pain with skill and empathy.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Alex and Matthew are very much a self-contained unit, but Kit de Courcy and Adam de Guirande are a fantastically-drawn pair of lovers enmeshed in a complicated political and social web. And a well-researched, authentic, believable one, that feels as right to the reader as a warm wool surcote.
Be warned: there is a considerable amount of brutality in this book. The Welsh Marches in 1321 were a place of unpredictable political allegiances, where a wise man keeps an eye on the main chance. Not a period where an author should tread, without a considerable amount of background research, and certainly not a period where an author who fears to describe spilled blood should go. (Just as well this author fears neither.)
I scent a long and happy relationship for this reader, with the de Guirandes....
My first worry was that it wasn't going to be as good - and my second was that it was going to be Alex and Matthew in the 14th century: a trap that many successful authors fall into, of replicating carbon copies of their successful characters in another period of history.
Well, I needn't have worried on either head.
I am very fond of Alex and Matthew Graham, but there is always - in my reading - that element of tension in their relationship. With Adam and Kit, despite the somewhat - unusual - beginning of their marriage, there is never any doubt for me that no matter how tumultous this period of history is, their love is solid. This is not, I don't think, a will-they won't-they story, set against a faintly-drawn generic historical background. It's a story of will Fate let them, in what has to be one of the most violent, tumultous, passionate, uninhibited periods of English history. A man and a woman, who find each other, and are determined that conflicting loyalty, intrigue, and murder will come between them.
Be not misled, gentle reader. We are not in the realms of courtly love here. We are dealing with a real and passionate period, where a brutal punishment can be meted out to a man in scenes of graphic savagery, and a woman be poisoned to death by her own family - and where the same man who raises a sword with violent skill, can make love to his wife with kindness and tenderness.
We are also dealing with a very accomplished author, who can describe love as well as pain with skill and empathy.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Alex and Matthew are very much a self-contained unit, but Kit de Courcy and Adam de Guirande are a fantastically-drawn pair of lovers enmeshed in a complicated political and social web. And a well-researched, authentic, believable one, that feels as right to the reader as a warm wool surcote.
Be warned: there is a considerable amount of brutality in this book. The Welsh Marches in 1321 were a place of unpredictable political allegiances, where a wise man keeps an eye on the main chance. Not a period where an author should tread, without a considerable amount of background research, and certainly not a period where an author who fears to describe spilled blood should go. (Just as well this author fears neither.)
I scent a long and happy relationship for this reader, with the de Guirandes....
November 3, 2015
4.5*****
Anna Belfrage has a way to transport a reader into another time and place, into the people of her story. When I opened the pages of In the Shadow of the Storm, 2015 was left behind. The sights, smells, and sounds of the early 14th century became home, though it is not necessarily warm or safe.
Forced to assume the identity of the half-sister she did not know about, Kit becomes the wife of the unsuspecting Adam de Guirande in an arranged marriage that neither wants. The two fictional protagonists fall in love though Belfrage throws doubts and obstacles in their path every step of the way. Their relationship and Adam’s allegiance to Mortimer, enemy of Edward II and Hugh Despenser, leads to tension, heartache, edge-of-the-seat action, and drama. This kept me turning the pages, even when I wanted to slap Adam for being Adam. He can’t help being a 14th century man. But I know enough of medieval times to recognize that Ms. Belfrage gets it right: she gives us a very realistic picture of society, customs, and culture wrapped inside an excellent story. Kit recognizes her place as a 14th century wife, but she is a strong and independent woman. I found myself rooting for Kit and Adam throughout the book. (Did I mention the steamy sex scenes? Quite lovely.) And the antagonists? Oh dear… every time one steps on scene, I cringed.
Enter Kit’s life. Her fear is our fear. Her joy is our joy. I highly recommend this book. It is a wonderful read. I look forward to Book II in the series.
More on my blog http://charlenenewcomb.com/2015/11/02...
Anna Belfrage has a way to transport a reader into another time and place, into the people of her story. When I opened the pages of In the Shadow of the Storm, 2015 was left behind. The sights, smells, and sounds of the early 14th century became home, though it is not necessarily warm or safe.
Forced to assume the identity of the half-sister she did not know about, Kit becomes the wife of the unsuspecting Adam de Guirande in an arranged marriage that neither wants. The two fictional protagonists fall in love though Belfrage throws doubts and obstacles in their path every step of the way. Their relationship and Adam’s allegiance to Mortimer, enemy of Edward II and Hugh Despenser, leads to tension, heartache, edge-of-the-seat action, and drama. This kept me turning the pages, even when I wanted to slap Adam for being Adam. He can’t help being a 14th century man. But I know enough of medieval times to recognize that Ms. Belfrage gets it right: she gives us a very realistic picture of society, customs, and culture wrapped inside an excellent story. Kit recognizes her place as a 14th century wife, but she is a strong and independent woman. I found myself rooting for Kit and Adam throughout the book. (Did I mention the steamy sex scenes? Quite lovely.) And the antagonists? Oh dear… every time one steps on scene, I cringed.
Enter Kit’s life. Her fear is our fear. Her joy is our joy. I highly recommend this book. It is a wonderful read. I look forward to Book II in the series.
More on my blog http://charlenenewcomb.com/2015/11/02...
August 23, 2017
Very good!!
This historical fiction based on fact is remarkably interesting and well researched. The main characters, though fictitious, are well described and developed and very believable. The early 14th century England was filled with unrest due to a weak King Edward I and his favorite, at the time, Hugh Despenser the younger. It is hard to imagine a king acquiescing to the machinations of such an evil, greedy man. Very unsettling.
The idea if sworn fealty to a lord, as a common knight would, is difficult to understand, but reading this book gave me a much better understanding. I have to thank this author for her substantial lesson in the depth of a Knight's obligations to his lord.
The romance is deep and strained, but well done all the same. The writing is fluid and easy to feel.
Definite recommendation to readers of historical fiction and those who like a good romance.
This historical fiction based on fact is remarkably interesting and well researched. The main characters, though fictitious, are well described and developed and very believable. The early 14th century England was filled with unrest due to a weak King Edward I and his favorite, at the time, Hugh Despenser the younger. It is hard to imagine a king acquiescing to the machinations of such an evil, greedy man. Very unsettling.
The idea if sworn fealty to a lord, as a common knight would, is difficult to understand, but reading this book gave me a much better understanding. I have to thank this author for her substantial lesson in the depth of a Knight's obligations to his lord.
The romance is deep and strained, but well done all the same. The writing is fluid and easy to feel.
Definite recommendation to readers of historical fiction and those who like a good romance.
January 14, 2025
Not for me.
October 26, 2016
1321 was a momentous year, not just for the king, Edward II, but also for those families who were caught up in the deadly baronial revolt and political ramifications of the Despenser War. The barons, led by Roger Mortimer and Thomas of Lancaster realised that the country, led by a weak and indecisive king, was on the brink of disaster, and that Hugh Despenser, the king's current favourite, wielded more power than was politically advisable. However insurgence, comes at a price and for Mortimer's man, Adam de Guirande, being involved in such a volatile rebellion places both himself and his family at great risk.
The story opens with an abduction and an arranged marriage between two people who would rather not enter into the bonds of matrimony. Not only is it a deception on a great scale, as the bride, Kit de Courcy, is not who she claims to be, but also the bridegroom has heard disturbing things about his intended bride’s reputation. All does not bode well for Adam de Guirande and his new wife, and when the country is swept into turmoil, Adam has no choice but to follow where his master, Roger Mortimer dictates. What Adam hadn’t bargained for was his burgeoning romantic feelings towards, Kit, his beautiful, and passionate, new wife.
What then follows is a well written story which combines authentic historical fact with a rollicking good adventure. The complicated and irrational history of the time is well explained and the author does a good job of explaining the complicated political ramifications whilst at the same time allowing the romantic element, between Guy and Kit, to develop. The story is rather dark in places, which is entirely in keeping with the nature of the story, and the author does a credible job of bringing to life those characters who are less likeable, especially her depiction of Hugh Despenser who demonstrates, by his actions, just why he is known as the 14th century’s ‘worst Briton’
If you like well written medieval adventure which is both action packed and authentic, and which has more than a hint of passionate romance, then I highly recommend In the Shadow of the Storm as a wonderful way to start a new historical series.
The story opens with an abduction and an arranged marriage between two people who would rather not enter into the bonds of matrimony. Not only is it a deception on a great scale, as the bride, Kit de Courcy, is not who she claims to be, but also the bridegroom has heard disturbing things about his intended bride’s reputation. All does not bode well for Adam de Guirande and his new wife, and when the country is swept into turmoil, Adam has no choice but to follow where his master, Roger Mortimer dictates. What Adam hadn’t bargained for was his burgeoning romantic feelings towards, Kit, his beautiful, and passionate, new wife.
What then follows is a well written story which combines authentic historical fact with a rollicking good adventure. The complicated and irrational history of the time is well explained and the author does a good job of explaining the complicated political ramifications whilst at the same time allowing the romantic element, between Guy and Kit, to develop. The story is rather dark in places, which is entirely in keeping with the nature of the story, and the author does a credible job of bringing to life those characters who are less likeable, especially her depiction of Hugh Despenser who demonstrates, by his actions, just why he is known as the 14th century’s ‘worst Briton’
If you like well written medieval adventure which is both action packed and authentic, and which has more than a hint of passionate romance, then I highly recommend In the Shadow of the Storm as a wonderful way to start a new historical series.
November 2, 2015
Anna Belfrage really knows how to draw the reader in. No, she yanks you in through the page and you can’t do anything about it. But this is not one of her acclaimed Graham Saga timeslip stories, but a new venture where she leads us into the early 14th century and introduces us to the fiery Kit/Katherine de Monmouth.
Emotional conflict, power politics, brutality, compelling allegiances and dignified chatelaines abound. The to and fro relationship between our heroine and her husband Adam is stormy, but tender. The feel of the setting is authentic; evidence of serious research on clothes, plants, castles, a marching army’s requirements and the arbitrary penal system.
On a wider scale, the story of Roger Mortimer, who rebels against Edward II is treated sympathetically. I did have to pay close attention what Mortimer was called as he seemed to change name. At this stage he was the third Baron Mortimer, hence Lord Mortimer. But he has an uncle Lord Mortimer of Chirk, perhaps the author calls Mortimer Sir Roger to avoid confusion!
Ms Belfrage does not hold back in describing Hugh le Despenser, selected in 2006 by BBC History Magazine as the ‘14th century's worst Briton’. I shuddered every time he crossed the page.
As usual, her writing is vivid and emotional, setting scenes well, and her characters well-rounded. I did wonder a little whether Kit is perhaps a little too modern-minded for this setting, and some of the language expressions reflect this. But this is fiction, a romantic action-packed adventure story, entirely suitable to while away a journey or curl up with in front of a fire with a large glass of wine and lose yourself.
Emotional conflict, power politics, brutality, compelling allegiances and dignified chatelaines abound. The to and fro relationship between our heroine and her husband Adam is stormy, but tender. The feel of the setting is authentic; evidence of serious research on clothes, plants, castles, a marching army’s requirements and the arbitrary penal system.
On a wider scale, the story of Roger Mortimer, who rebels against Edward II is treated sympathetically. I did have to pay close attention what Mortimer was called as he seemed to change name. At this stage he was the third Baron Mortimer, hence Lord Mortimer. But he has an uncle Lord Mortimer of Chirk, perhaps the author calls Mortimer Sir Roger to avoid confusion!
Ms Belfrage does not hold back in describing Hugh le Despenser, selected in 2006 by BBC History Magazine as the ‘14th century's worst Briton’. I shuddered every time he crossed the page.
As usual, her writing is vivid and emotional, setting scenes well, and her characters well-rounded. I did wonder a little whether Kit is perhaps a little too modern-minded for this setting, and some of the language expressions reflect this. But this is fiction, a romantic action-packed adventure story, entirely suitable to while away a journey or curl up with in front of a fire with a large glass of wine and lose yourself.
December 14, 2015
I couldn’t put this book down, highly unlikely you will either. Anna Belfrage grabs your attention and runs with it.
The setting felt very authentic through rich descriptions of clothing, laws, flora, no doubt thoroughly researched. The hot and cold relationship between Kit and Adam is a controlled burn eventually leveling to a simmer. The usual elements creating a riveting read all present and accounted for – politics, loyalty, power, passion, violence along with your share of mountebanks.
As fond as I was of Kit and Adam, I loathed Hugh le Despenser. He is a vile sadist, and I bristled every time he appeared. Can’t recall detesting anyone as much as this poor excuse for a human being. The violence this creature inflicts is beyond cruel, the man is twisted, with Belfrage’s candid descriptions your stomach will turn.
Belfrage’s writing is wonderful, her ability to transport the reader to the setting along with her fully developed and motley characters create an enthralling reading journey. I enjoyed the action, adventure and romance. Kit is my ideal female protagonist cum heroine, as the story unfolds so does Kit’s many stellar qualities, her strength never wavers.
The setting felt very authentic through rich descriptions of clothing, laws, flora, no doubt thoroughly researched. The hot and cold relationship between Kit and Adam is a controlled burn eventually leveling to a simmer. The usual elements creating a riveting read all present and accounted for – politics, loyalty, power, passion, violence along with your share of mountebanks.
As fond as I was of Kit and Adam, I loathed Hugh le Despenser. He is a vile sadist, and I bristled every time he appeared. Can’t recall detesting anyone as much as this poor excuse for a human being. The violence this creature inflicts is beyond cruel, the man is twisted, with Belfrage’s candid descriptions your stomach will turn.
Belfrage’s writing is wonderful, her ability to transport the reader to the setting along with her fully developed and motley characters create an enthralling reading journey. I enjoyed the action, adventure and romance. Kit is my ideal female protagonist cum heroine, as the story unfolds so does Kit’s many stellar qualities, her strength never wavers.
November 11, 2015
A great beginning to a series. You have to read this story. Make sure you have a day to lose your self in Kit and Adams world. Thanks Anna! I love Kit and Adam.
February 18, 2017
In the Shadow of the Storm has been honoured with a Chill with a Book Readers' AWARD
www.chillwithabook.com
www.chillwithabook.com
April 26, 2016
Prior to reading In the Shadow of the Storm I had devoured Anna Belfrage’s Graham Saga series in its entirety—more than once. I think I may have read the first, A Rip in the Veil, perhaps four or five times. They just never grow old. Her writing is fluid, the characters likable and events dramatic and keep-you-on-the-edge-of-your seat thrilling.
However, I wondered. Belfrage herself had said she didn’t think this new series would be my cup of tea and indeed I don’t know 1321 England, where the novel is set, all that well. It wasn’t difficult for me to take the plunge, however, because my previous experience with her work is of being immersed in reader-friendly writing. That is to say she doesn’t withhold information, expecting you to know every reference or nuance in order to enjoy the book. Nor does she spoon feed readers information as if we were not to be trusted handling history.
The story opens as Kit de Courcy is abducted with intent of dropping her in place of her half—and legitimate—sister, Katherine de Monmouth, who is scheduled to marry Adam de Guirande, vassal to Roger, Baron Mortimer. Forced into “replacing” her runaway sister, whose appearance she mirrors, Kit goes through with the wedding, followed by constant tension tempered by Mabel, Katherine’s servant, whose own history with the family is long.
In this time of Edward II, who allows his favorites to unduly and dangerously influence him, despite their own personal ambitions, awaiting fate has a chilling feel. Hugh Despenser the Younger scatters his own supporters amongst the king’s officers, is an unyielding gatekeeper and demands bribes before he will allow baronial access to Edward, a set of circumstances that lends him the opportunity to force relinquishment and confiscation of lands and lordships, rapidly accumulating his own real estate kingdom.
Baron Mortimer, whose family holds a long-standing feud with that of Despenser—owing to the battlefield death of the latter’s grandfather committed by the former’s—watches in horror as Despenser’s power grows and frightening fate comes closer to reality. The Marcher barons initially succeed in having Despenser exiled, though the king protects his favorite, even seizing Welsh lands with the intent to grant them to Despenser. His alliance with Despenser and refusal to stop the violation of his own barons’ privileges put all involved on a clear path to war.
Belfrage succinctly opens up and lays this all out with a narrative that is accessible, polished and enticing. History is never dull with this author, and even an era unknown opens wide, beckoning for readers to step within as she guides us, not only fearlessly on her part, but also while putting us at ease. Once you get rolling, you won't want to put this book down.
Owing fealty to Mortimer, de Guirande is required to follow his lord, even while he fears he has overreached. After all, this is a time when some officials outright refuse to be in Edward’s presence if Despenser is with him, for fear of being murdered. These concerns overlap his domestic anxieties, what with the rumors concerning his new wife and the baron, his brother reminding him at every turn and Katherine’s bizarre behavior. Slowly, however, the pair begin truly to grow as a couple and their bond sets Katherine—Kit—on a path closer to war as well.
It occurred to me that some readers may balk at what they see as a stereotypical forced marriage of the demure woman to a boisterous and aggressive man, whom she later falls in love with, fights others for and so on. However, it also remains viable that we seem so familiar with these alliances because, unlike weddings followed by years of drudgery and dull existence, even if those were far more common, the former received much more press. To begin with, these pairs were historically more likely to be literate, therefore capable of expressing themselves and recording their experiences. Moreover, even amongst our ancestors, stories of women acting outside the standards of behavior, provided they advanced only to certain spots outside, were far more entertaining than long narratives about women who duly washed dishes for the lengths of their lives. And, of course, our female kin were more likely to enjoy stories in which their sisters, at least to some extent, won what so many wanted: the happiness of having secured a spot in which a woman mattered beyond her ability to reproduce.
So while Adam and Kit falling for one another might not come as a surprise, what happens within all that is to Belfrage’s credit. Her characters are multi dimensional and their lives do not play out according to script. They are complex people with a variety of perspectives on the complicated affairs in their country, which they are required to respond to not only to inform their lives but also to protect them.
Kit having to work through her abduction—it being perpetrated by a woman is the first step in Belfrage’s defiance of the bad caricature of Vedic-like wife stealing—and deal with how to move forward in light of her own experience, principles, fears and, let’s face it, reality of politics, affect her relationships with Adam and Mabel as they weave through each interaction. There are no easy outs, and the author remains true to historical reality by remaining within its confines.
Ever since Adam rode away, Kit seemed to spend her days in endless vigil. Not that she stood on the curtain wall all the time—Lady Joan would not have allowed it—but her mind was always with him, wondering if he was cold, if he was well and alive. Outwardly she maintained a rigid calm, submerging herself in her sewing to allow her thoughts to wander, unimpaired, to him.
“In God’s hands,” Mabel sighed. “Best you pray, my lady.”
So Kit did, becoming a recurring visitor to the little chapel.
“I did not expect such a devout sister-in-law,” William said with a little smile, when yet again he came upon her on her knees at the alter.
“I did not expect to live through the fear of losing my man in warfare,” she retorted.
“You didn’t?” He sounded surprised. “Men of noble birth have always ridden to war with depressing regularity.”
The author moves forward, taking Kit and the others beyond this, geographically as well as within the plot line. We see Kit settle in to who she is, gaining self confidence and growing close to her husband. It is classic Belfrage in the sense that her writing is so wonderfully sinuous, graceful or gritty when called for and one with our reading selves. However, Adam and Kit are their own people within a whole new story, and the events of their lives and perilous, changing times are brought to life with a force that informs and entertains with a staying power as strong as their will to claim their lives for themselves.
Inspired in large part by Ian Mortimer’s The Greatest Traitor, Belfrage not only delves into a period in history unfamiliar to many (including myself), but also does so with aplomb and expertise. Having woven a fictional story within historical events, both containing links back and forth to other political allies and enemies, kin and neighbor, events and consequences, it is one clearly articulated and recounted by a professional. Belfrage’s storytelling, so assured and captivating, is one of the reasons why humans innately love to hear a tale told.
The King's Greatest Enemy continues in Days of Sun and Glory, most definitely a continuation I shall not like to miss, nor should you.
However, I wondered. Belfrage herself had said she didn’t think this new series would be my cup of tea and indeed I don’t know 1321 England, where the novel is set, all that well. It wasn’t difficult for me to take the plunge, however, because my previous experience with her work is of being immersed in reader-friendly writing. That is to say she doesn’t withhold information, expecting you to know every reference or nuance in order to enjoy the book. Nor does she spoon feed readers information as if we were not to be trusted handling history.
The story opens as Kit de Courcy is abducted with intent of dropping her in place of her half—and legitimate—sister, Katherine de Monmouth, who is scheduled to marry Adam de Guirande, vassal to Roger, Baron Mortimer. Forced into “replacing” her runaway sister, whose appearance she mirrors, Kit goes through with the wedding, followed by constant tension tempered by Mabel, Katherine’s servant, whose own history with the family is long.
In this time of Edward II, who allows his favorites to unduly and dangerously influence him, despite their own personal ambitions, awaiting fate has a chilling feel. Hugh Despenser the Younger scatters his own supporters amongst the king’s officers, is an unyielding gatekeeper and demands bribes before he will allow baronial access to Edward, a set of circumstances that lends him the opportunity to force relinquishment and confiscation of lands and lordships, rapidly accumulating his own real estate kingdom.
Baron Mortimer, whose family holds a long-standing feud with that of Despenser—owing to the battlefield death of the latter’s grandfather committed by the former’s—watches in horror as Despenser’s power grows and frightening fate comes closer to reality. The Marcher barons initially succeed in having Despenser exiled, though the king protects his favorite, even seizing Welsh lands with the intent to grant them to Despenser. His alliance with Despenser and refusal to stop the violation of his own barons’ privileges put all involved on a clear path to war.
Belfrage succinctly opens up and lays this all out with a narrative that is accessible, polished and enticing. History is never dull with this author, and even an era unknown opens wide, beckoning for readers to step within as she guides us, not only fearlessly on her part, but also while putting us at ease. Once you get rolling, you won't want to put this book down.
Owing fealty to Mortimer, de Guirande is required to follow his lord, even while he fears he has overreached. After all, this is a time when some officials outright refuse to be in Edward’s presence if Despenser is with him, for fear of being murdered. These concerns overlap his domestic anxieties, what with the rumors concerning his new wife and the baron, his brother reminding him at every turn and Katherine’s bizarre behavior. Slowly, however, the pair begin truly to grow as a couple and their bond sets Katherine—Kit—on a path closer to war as well.
It occurred to me that some readers may balk at what they see as a stereotypical forced marriage of the demure woman to a boisterous and aggressive man, whom she later falls in love with, fights others for and so on. However, it also remains viable that we seem so familiar with these alliances because, unlike weddings followed by years of drudgery and dull existence, even if those were far more common, the former received much more press. To begin with, these pairs were historically more likely to be literate, therefore capable of expressing themselves and recording their experiences. Moreover, even amongst our ancestors, stories of women acting outside the standards of behavior, provided they advanced only to certain spots outside, were far more entertaining than long narratives about women who duly washed dishes for the lengths of their lives. And, of course, our female kin were more likely to enjoy stories in which their sisters, at least to some extent, won what so many wanted: the happiness of having secured a spot in which a woman mattered beyond her ability to reproduce.
So while Adam and Kit falling for one another might not come as a surprise, what happens within all that is to Belfrage’s credit. Her characters are multi dimensional and their lives do not play out according to script. They are complex people with a variety of perspectives on the complicated affairs in their country, which they are required to respond to not only to inform their lives but also to protect them.
Kit having to work through her abduction—it being perpetrated by a woman is the first step in Belfrage’s defiance of the bad caricature of Vedic-like wife stealing—and deal with how to move forward in light of her own experience, principles, fears and, let’s face it, reality of politics, affect her relationships with Adam and Mabel as they weave through each interaction. There are no easy outs, and the author remains true to historical reality by remaining within its confines.
Ever since Adam rode away, Kit seemed to spend her days in endless vigil. Not that she stood on the curtain wall all the time—Lady Joan would not have allowed it—but her mind was always with him, wondering if he was cold, if he was well and alive. Outwardly she maintained a rigid calm, submerging herself in her sewing to allow her thoughts to wander, unimpaired, to him.
“In God’s hands,” Mabel sighed. “Best you pray, my lady.”
So Kit did, becoming a recurring visitor to the little chapel.
“I did not expect such a devout sister-in-law,” William said with a little smile, when yet again he came upon her on her knees at the alter.
“I did not expect to live through the fear of losing my man in warfare,” she retorted.
“You didn’t?” He sounded surprised. “Men of noble birth have always ridden to war with depressing regularity.”
The author moves forward, taking Kit and the others beyond this, geographically as well as within the plot line. We see Kit settle in to who she is, gaining self confidence and growing close to her husband. It is classic Belfrage in the sense that her writing is so wonderfully sinuous, graceful or gritty when called for and one with our reading selves. However, Adam and Kit are their own people within a whole new story, and the events of their lives and perilous, changing times are brought to life with a force that informs and entertains with a staying power as strong as their will to claim their lives for themselves.
Inspired in large part by Ian Mortimer’s The Greatest Traitor, Belfrage not only delves into a period in history unfamiliar to many (including myself), but also does so with aplomb and expertise. Having woven a fictional story within historical events, both containing links back and forth to other political allies and enemies, kin and neighbor, events and consequences, it is one clearly articulated and recounted by a professional. Belfrage’s storytelling, so assured and captivating, is one of the reasons why humans innately love to hear a tale told.
The King's Greatest Enemy continues in Days of Sun and Glory, most definitely a continuation I shall not like to miss, nor should you.
April 24, 2018
Why is this the first time I have read a book by Anna Belfrage? I am now hooked! I LOVED In the Shadow of the Storm. I would give it full 100 stars if I could.
June 13, 2023
A brilliant and compelling read for anyone interested in this era of history. I shall be reading the next instalment soon.
December 10, 2015
Summary:
Adam de Guirande owes his lord, Sir Roger Mortimer, much more than loyalty. He owes Sir Roger for his life and all his worldly good, he owes him for his beautiful wife – even if Kit is not quite the woman Sir Roger thinks she is. So when Sir Roger rises in rebellion against the king, Adam has no choice but to ride with him – no matter what the ultimate cost may be.
England in 1321 is a confusing place. Edward II has been forced by his barons to exile his favourite, Hugh Despenser. The barons, led by the powerful Thomas of Lancaster, Roger Mortimer and Humphrey de Bohun, have reasons to believe they have finally tamed the king. But Edward is not about to take things lying down, and fate is a fickle mistress, favouring first one, then the other.
Adam fears his lord has over-reached, but at present Adam has other matters to concern him, first and foremost his new wife, Katherine de Monmouth. His bride comes surrounded by rumours concerning her and the baron, and he hates it when his brother snickers and whispers of used goods.
Kit de Courcy has the misfortune of being a perfect double of Katherine de Monmouth – which is why she finds herself coerced into wedding a man under a false name. What will Adam do when he finds out he has been duped?
Domestic matters become irrelevant when the king sets out to punish his rebellious barons. The Welsh Marches explode into war, and soon Sir Roger and his men are fighting for their very lives. When hope splutters and dies, when death seems inevitable, it falls to Kit to save her man – if she can.
In the Shadow of the Storm is the first in Anna Belfrage’s new series, The King’s Greatest Enemy, the story of a man torn apart by his loyalties to his baron, his king, and his wife.
My Thoughts:
I read The Prodigal Son (The Graham Saga Series) for review in October 2014. I've not read the other books in this series.
Both books are romantic stories. Both books have external conflicts because of political unrest. Both books have the main female characters as strong women. Both books have passionate love scenes.
The Shadow Of The Storm's time period is the middle ages.
The Prodigal Son's time period is during Charles II.
Now, for my thoughts of In The Shadow Of The Storm.
When the story begins, Kit is pushed into a corner by a forced marriage. Her wedding day is tumultuous, but not without its marital blessings. This predicament set the tone and grabbed me from the first page. I had to know what became of Kit.
I've read love stories where the couple's love scenes remind me of two bear cubs tumbling around. It's awkward, silly, and messy. But Adam and Kit are a well-suited pair in love-making.
The time period is during the reign Edward II (1307-1327), his favorite Hugh Despenser, and Roger Mortimer. This was a odd period in English history, because a weak king created tension and havoc in England. Belfrage depicted these ignoble characters skillfully.
In The Shadow Of The Storm is a character drive story. The strength and focus of the story is on the two lovers, Adam and Kit, and their plight during this history in England.
Their baron is Roger Mortimer, a contemptible man. I already knew the history of his relationship with Isabella, who was Edward II's queen. In The Shadow Of The Storm told me of his days as a baronial opponent.
I loved this story from start to finish, and I'm looking forward to reading further books in the series about Adam and Kit.
Adam de Guirande owes his lord, Sir Roger Mortimer, much more than loyalty. He owes Sir Roger for his life and all his worldly good, he owes him for his beautiful wife – even if Kit is not quite the woman Sir Roger thinks she is. So when Sir Roger rises in rebellion against the king, Adam has no choice but to ride with him – no matter what the ultimate cost may be.
England in 1321 is a confusing place. Edward II has been forced by his barons to exile his favourite, Hugh Despenser. The barons, led by the powerful Thomas of Lancaster, Roger Mortimer and Humphrey de Bohun, have reasons to believe they have finally tamed the king. But Edward is not about to take things lying down, and fate is a fickle mistress, favouring first one, then the other.
Adam fears his lord has over-reached, but at present Adam has other matters to concern him, first and foremost his new wife, Katherine de Monmouth. His bride comes surrounded by rumours concerning her and the baron, and he hates it when his brother snickers and whispers of used goods.
Kit de Courcy has the misfortune of being a perfect double of Katherine de Monmouth – which is why she finds herself coerced into wedding a man under a false name. What will Adam do when he finds out he has been duped?
Domestic matters become irrelevant when the king sets out to punish his rebellious barons. The Welsh Marches explode into war, and soon Sir Roger and his men are fighting for their very lives. When hope splutters and dies, when death seems inevitable, it falls to Kit to save her man – if she can.
In the Shadow of the Storm is the first in Anna Belfrage’s new series, The King’s Greatest Enemy, the story of a man torn apart by his loyalties to his baron, his king, and his wife.
My Thoughts:
I read The Prodigal Son (The Graham Saga Series) for review in October 2014. I've not read the other books in this series.
Both books are romantic stories. Both books have external conflicts because of political unrest. Both books have the main female characters as strong women. Both books have passionate love scenes.
The Shadow Of The Storm's time period is the middle ages.
The Prodigal Son's time period is during Charles II.
Now, for my thoughts of In The Shadow Of The Storm.
When the story begins, Kit is pushed into a corner by a forced marriage. Her wedding day is tumultuous, but not without its marital blessings. This predicament set the tone and grabbed me from the first page. I had to know what became of Kit.
I've read love stories where the couple's love scenes remind me of two bear cubs tumbling around. It's awkward, silly, and messy. But Adam and Kit are a well-suited pair in love-making.
The time period is during the reign Edward II (1307-1327), his favorite Hugh Despenser, and Roger Mortimer. This was a odd period in English history, because a weak king created tension and havoc in England. Belfrage depicted these ignoble characters skillfully.
In The Shadow Of The Storm is a character drive story. The strength and focus of the story is on the two lovers, Adam and Kit, and their plight during this history in England.
Their baron is Roger Mortimer, a contemptible man. I already knew the history of his relationship with Isabella, who was Edward II's queen. In The Shadow Of The Storm told me of his days as a baronial opponent.
I loved this story from start to finish, and I'm looking forward to reading further books in the series about Adam and Kit.
December 22, 2015
As much as I loved the Graham saga, I started this book a bit cautiously. I’m not a huge fan of Mortimer but I have a soft spot for Edward II, and little bit for Despenser, and I knew they wouldn’t be showed here in a good light. But I trusted Belfrage to make it enjoyable nevertheless and I was right.
I liked both Kit and Adam and loved seeing how their relationship grew. With that kind of start to the marriage it could have gone terribly wrong. She was brave, not afraid to say what she wanted and ready to fight for what she wanted.
I didn’t really warm up to Mortimer and while I understand you’re loyal to a man who’s practically your foster father, I didn’t understand why he was so blindingly loyal. I’m curious to see how he feels about future events, especially since he’s so fond of Lady Joan…
I couldn’t help but feel that Despenser was little too evil here but yeah… I did mention about my soft spot for him so…
The book started bit slow but after events started picking up there wasn’t a dull moment. All in all I really liked this and I’m waiting for the next book.
I liked both Kit and Adam and loved seeing how their relationship grew. With that kind of start to the marriage it could have gone terribly wrong. She was brave, not afraid to say what she wanted and ready to fight for what she wanted.
I didn’t really warm up to Mortimer and while I understand you’re loyal to a man who’s practically your foster father, I didn’t understand why he was so blindingly loyal. I’m curious to see how he feels about future events, especially since he’s so fond of Lady Joan…
I couldn’t help but feel that Despenser was little too evil here but yeah… I did mention about my soft spot for him so…
The book started bit slow but after events started picking up there wasn’t a dull moment. All in all I really liked this and I’m waiting for the next book.
October 3, 2021
2 star
I am well aware of the culture of the times and the limited rights of women, but that doesn't mean I'm going to think very kindly of a man who hits and rapes his wife. He regrets the hitting briefly but seems to have no remorse for the rape. I finished it because I dislike writing lower reviews without giving a book a chance to redeem itself. It has several other incidences of graphic violence and sexual assault. I feel very disturbed by them as the violence is portrayed in more detail and more graphically than any positive interactions. Reminded me way too much of a historical tv series I watched part of but couldn't stand for the same reason. And has similar reuse of the same basic elements. Your tastes may vary, but beware a very needed CW for graphic sexual violence and violence. Negative portrayal of homosexuality without any balancing elements (only nonhetero characters are abusive and some of the sexual assault is same sex as well).
I am well aware of the culture of the times and the limited rights of women, but that doesn't mean I'm going to think very kindly of a man who hits and rapes his wife. He regrets the hitting briefly but seems to have no remorse for the rape. I finished it because I dislike writing lower reviews without giving a book a chance to redeem itself. It has several other incidences of graphic violence and sexual assault. I feel very disturbed by them as the violence is portrayed in more detail and more graphically than any positive interactions. Reminded me way too much of a historical tv series I watched part of but couldn't stand for the same reason. And has similar reuse of the same basic elements. Your tastes may vary, but beware a very needed CW for graphic sexual violence and violence. Negative portrayal of homosexuality without any balancing elements (only nonhetero characters are abusive and some of the sexual assault is same sex as well).
December 2, 2015
Anna is one of my favorite authors so I was excited to hear that she was starting a new series. I was not the least disappointed in the first installment. The author does a lot of research when writing her books and it shows in the story. Because of her research I felt as if I really got to know the people and places of this story better. Her writing style to me just seems to flow and makes the book read quickly. There is plenty of action and adventure in this book and keeps the book moving right along. Oh and let's not forget the steamy sex scenes, but they are fitting for the time period and with the storyline. I really liked Kit and her story. She was a strong woman even though she had to marry with a pre-arranged marriage. I will be looking forward to see what adventures Alex and Matthew embarq on next.
February 3, 2022
I tried.
November 21, 2020
A gripping love story!
Where to start? This book has it all! Love, betrayal, honor, murder, intrigue, revenge, suspense, all incorporated into true historical events! History was never one of my favorite subjects, but if the history books had been written like this one, I would have excelled in the subject!
Once you get started, you won't want to put this story down! It is a true page turner! It is so well written and edited beautifully! I very much look forward to reading the next installment and consider it a bonus to come away with a history lesson as well!
I highly recommend this book!
Where to start? This book has it all! Love, betrayal, honor, murder, intrigue, revenge, suspense, all incorporated into true historical events! History was never one of my favorite subjects, but if the history books had been written like this one, I would have excelled in the subject!
Once you get started, you won't want to put this story down! It is a true page turner! It is so well written and edited beautifully! I very much look forward to reading the next installment and consider it a bonus to come away with a history lesson as well!
I highly recommend this book!
July 19, 2018
This is an epic historical that sweeps you straight into the politics and intrigues of 14th century England. With a feisty heroine, a hero who is almost too honourable for his own good, as well as a weak king, a despicable villain and a rebellion, this story draws you in right from the start and keeps you turning the pages. The author has clearly done a lot of research as the novel abounds with authentic period detail and historical background. You will want to start on the next in the series straight away! Highly recommended.
April 19, 2016
4.5/5.0
Everyone has their personal favorite authors. Anna Belfrage happens to be one of mine. Her writing encompasses everything I love most - rich historical settings that are accurate and educational, love stories that are deeply devoted and real yet often flawed and stories that keep one riveted and reading. This first installment in her new series delivers all and more!
Everyone has their personal favorite authors. Anna Belfrage happens to be one of mine. Her writing encompasses everything I love most - rich historical settings that are accurate and educational, love stories that are deeply devoted and real yet often flawed and stories that keep one riveted and reading. This first installment in her new series delivers all and more!
December 2, 2017
Great Book!!
I read this book pretty fast. I would recommend this book to adults as there are some sex scenes in it. I love reading about this time period. I'm on to the next book as this is a 3-part book series.. The author writes extremely well. This book kept my attention the whole way..
-K- W.
Dania Beach, FL.
I read this book pretty fast. I would recommend this book to adults as there are some sex scenes in it. I love reading about this time period. I'm on to the next book as this is a 3-part book series.. The author writes extremely well. This book kept my attention the whole way..
-K- W.
Dania Beach, FL.
September 17, 2021
Historical
A well written if somewhat slow mob by book. However I couldn't get into a book that wrote an abusive relationship as romantic. Even if this was the norm for the time, its not what I want my fun to be.
A well written if somewhat slow mob by book. However I couldn't get into a book that wrote an abusive relationship as romantic. Even if this was the norm for the time, its not what I want my fun to be.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews