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Age of Faith #6
The Vexing
USA Today best-seller Tamara Leigh returns to the medieval Age of Faith series with a romance three years in the making—Sir Durand’s tale.
A VEXING LADY
Answering her father’s summons to return home, Lady Beata Fauvel must evade capture by noblemen who seek to wed a great heiress. But when she falls into the hands of Queen Eleanor of England, she discovers her sovereign has plans of her own for the lady known France over as The Vestal Widow. Now Beata must not only escape the knight entrusted with ensuring she does not wed without permission, but survive a storm-tossed sea and revelation of a long-buried secret that could destroy her family. And what of a heart that wants what it cannot have? Will it only ever beat for the queen’s man?
A REPENTANT KNIGHT
For years, Sir Durand Marshal has faithfully served his queen as penance for betrayal of the Wulfrith family. When he rescues a woman pursued by vassals of the French king, he is charged with delivering to England the nearly scandalous lady who has only a name in common with the one he once loved. Though he never expects to feel anything beyond annoyance for the outspoken Lady Beata, he finds himself drawn to yet another woman denied him. Can he fulfill his duty to his liege? Or will he forsake his redemption and forever ruin his reputation—more, the lady’s?
A VEXING LADY
Answering her father’s summons to return home, Lady Beata Fauvel must evade capture by noblemen who seek to wed a great heiress. But when she falls into the hands of Queen Eleanor of England, she discovers her sovereign has plans of her own for the lady known France over as The Vestal Widow. Now Beata must not only escape the knight entrusted with ensuring she does not wed without permission, but survive a storm-tossed sea and revelation of a long-buried secret that could destroy her family. And what of a heart that wants what it cannot have? Will it only ever beat for the queen’s man?
A REPENTANT KNIGHT
For years, Sir Durand Marshal has faithfully served his queen as penance for betrayal of the Wulfrith family. When he rescues a woman pursued by vassals of the French king, he is charged with delivering to England the nearly scandalous lady who has only a name in common with the one he once loved. Though he never expects to feel anything beyond annoyance for the outspoken Lady Beata, he finds himself drawn to yet another woman denied him. Can he fulfill his duty to his liege? Or will he forsake his redemption and forever ruin his reputation—more, the lady’s?
364 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2017
267 people are currently reading
515 people want to read
About the author
Tamara Leigh
70 books968 followersTamara Leigh signed a 4-book contract with Bantam Books in 1993, her debut medieval romance was nominated for a RITA award, and successive books with Bantam, HarperCollins, and Dorchester earned awards and appeared on national bestseller lists.
In 2006, the first of Tamara’s inspirational contemporary romances was published, followed by six more with Multnomah and RandomHouse. Perfecting Kate was optioned for a movie, Splitting Harriet won an ACFW Book of the Year award, and Faking Grace was nominated for a RITA award.
In 2012, Tamara returned to writing historical romance with the release of Dreamspell and the bestselling Age of Faith and The Feud series. Among her #1 bestsellers are her general market romances rewritten as clean and inspirational reads, including Lady at Arms and Lady of Conquest. In late 2018, she released Merciless, the first book in the new AGE OF CONQUEST series, followed by Fearless and Nameless, unveiling the origins of the Wulfrith family. Psst!—It all began with a woman. Watch for Heartless in Spring 2020.
Tamara lives near Nashville with her husband, a German Shepherd who has never met a squeaky toy she can’t destroy, and a feisty Morkie who keeps her company during long writing stints.
Connect with Tamara at her website www.tamaraleigh.com, Facebook, Twitter and tamaraleightenn@gmail.com.
In 2006, the first of Tamara’s inspirational contemporary romances was published, followed by six more with Multnomah and RandomHouse. Perfecting Kate was optioned for a movie, Splitting Harriet won an ACFW Book of the Year award, and Faking Grace was nominated for a RITA award.
In 2012, Tamara returned to writing historical romance with the release of Dreamspell and the bestselling Age of Faith and The Feud series. Among her #1 bestsellers are her general market romances rewritten as clean and inspirational reads, including Lady at Arms and Lady of Conquest. In late 2018, she released Merciless, the first book in the new AGE OF CONQUEST series, followed by Fearless and Nameless, unveiling the origins of the Wulfrith family. Psst!—It all began with a woman. Watch for Heartless in Spring 2020.
Tamara lives near Nashville with her husband, a German Shepherd who has never met a squeaky toy she can’t destroy, and a feisty Morkie who keeps her company during long writing stints.
Connect with Tamara at her website www.tamaraleigh.com, Facebook, Twitter and tamaraleightenn@gmail.com.
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June 25, 2017OH SQUEE OF DELIGHT, THERE'S GOING TO BE A SIXTH BOOK?!?!?!
How am I ever going to patient until April??! I'm almost finished with book 5, I want this one NOW!! :p :p
Update: Just finished it and it was wonderful!! Review coming soon :D AND MORE SQUEES OF DELIGHT BECAUSE THERE'S GOING TO BE A SEVENTH BOOK!!!!!!!!!!
How am I ever going to patient until April??! I'm almost finished with book 5, I want this one NOW!! :p :p
Update: Just finished it and it was wonderful!! Review coming soon :D AND MORE SQUEES OF DELIGHT BECAUSE THERE'S GOING TO BE A SEVENTH BOOK!!!!!!!!!!
March 19, 2018
Loved. It. Tamara amazes me... and she turned a character I had decidedly not liked at all in previous books and made me love him. Additionally, she broke from the call, demure female lead and went with a head-strong, vocal, imperfect woman whom I adored. Well done.
October 28, 2018
I really liked The Vexing and following Sir Durand's story as well as Lady Beata Fauvel. It was also great to see the Wulfriths here and there.
I was worried because this wasn't a Wulfrith story it wouldn't be as great but I had nothing to fear. Tamara Leigh did a remarkable job in book 6. Now on to book 7!
I was worried because this wasn't a Wulfrith story it wouldn't be as great but I had nothing to fear. Tamara Leigh did a remarkable job in book 6. Now on to book 7!
June 20, 2017
Tamara Leigh writes with so much flair and colorful word pictures. Each of her books are an invitation to travel back in time to an era we can only imagine. An era where the king and queen determine who you can marry, where you can go, and what your life status will be.
This story is full of drama and intrigue, with a fun bit of romance.
As a reader, you will be taken on a fantastic journey with Sir Durand and Lady Beata. Deeply feeling all their struggles and emotions.
This book ties together the Age of Faith series, and is a wonderful end (maybe) to these characters. Who knows, Tamara Leigh may surprise us with more of these stories, and I for one, would LOVE it!
I highly recommend picking this book up and reading it. Actually, READ THE WHOLE SERIES you won’t be disappointed!
On a different note...This was my 1000th book read since joining Goodreads and it was so FUN!
This story is full of drama and intrigue, with a fun bit of romance.
As a reader, you will be taken on a fantastic journey with Sir Durand and Lady Beata. Deeply feeling all their struggles and emotions.
This book ties together the Age of Faith series, and is a wonderful end (maybe) to these characters. Who knows, Tamara Leigh may surprise us with more of these stories, and I for one, would LOVE it!
I highly recommend picking this book up and reading it. Actually, READ THE WHOLE SERIES you won’t be disappointed!
On a different note...This was my 1000th book read since joining Goodreads and it was so FUN!
May 31, 2017
Brilliant!
As always, Tamara Leigh captures your heart and brings to life the wonderful world of the Wulfriths. I have been eagerly awaiting this story and every painful second was answered a hundred times over!
Wonderful characters, amazing plot...you'll love it. I don't doubt it!
As always, Tamara Leigh captures your heart and brings to life the wonderful world of the Wulfriths. I have been eagerly awaiting this story and every painful second was answered a hundred times over!
Wonderful characters, amazing plot...you'll love it. I don't doubt it!
May 17, 2017
This is book six in Tamara Leigh's 'Age of Faith' series and follows Sir Durand. Although not a Wulfrith, as the other books feature, Sir Durand is a most noble knight. However, he has been through the rough, poor guy. This time around, he is given his own story and I was tickled to see that he had, too!
Sir Durand is charged by Queen Eleanor of Aquitane with escorting Lady Beata back to England to her faith post haste. However, peril falls upon them in more ways than one. Neither one is appreciative of the other and longs to be out of the other's company. Life has different ideas.
Will Sir Durand ever find love? Will he ever be appreciated for who he is? He has had hard times in the past, but he has learned from them and deserves to find true happiness with a woman who longs for him only and trusts his heart.
Lady Beata also has trouble in her past and pain as well. She, as well as most high born women of the era, the twelfth century, are married where they can do the most good for their families. She fears her father has called her home to marry her off to someone she will not like. Although a widow, she is called the Vestal Widow and she hopes that her fears will prove groundless.
Leigh has written another wonderful novel in this setting and the genre I most love, the medieval time period. I dearly loved catching up with the other Wulfriths from previous books. I believe this book can be read as a stand alone, but it would be best to read the series from the beginning to better understand the back story here. I have personally read The Age of Faith series twice and fully intend on doing so again. It's that good! Highly recommended.
Sir Durand is charged by Queen Eleanor of Aquitane with escorting Lady Beata back to England to her faith post haste. However, peril falls upon them in more ways than one. Neither one is appreciative of the other and longs to be out of the other's company. Life has different ideas.
Will Sir Durand ever find love? Will he ever be appreciated for who he is? He has had hard times in the past, but he has learned from them and deserves to find true happiness with a woman who longs for him only and trusts his heart.
Lady Beata also has trouble in her past and pain as well. She, as well as most high born women of the era, the twelfth century, are married where they can do the most good for their families. She fears her father has called her home to marry her off to someone she will not like. Although a widow, she is called the Vestal Widow and she hopes that her fears will prove groundless.
Leigh has written another wonderful novel in this setting and the genre I most love, the medieval time period. I dearly loved catching up with the other Wulfriths from previous books. I believe this book can be read as a stand alone, but it would be best to read the series from the beginning to better understand the back story here. I have personally read The Age of Faith series twice and fully intend on doing so again. It's that good! Highly recommended.
September 1, 2017
3.5 stars
June 21, 2022
I LOVED this one!!! 😭💛 Durand's redemption story 😭👏💛 I'll try and post a full review soon.
January 17, 2022
Liked this, but grew annoyed with the Vestal Widow
I loved having a story around Sir Durand and this was a great story of redemption. I also liked the heroine Beata, but I grew really frustrated with the continued focus on her size. So much so that I grew distracted with the reading. I liked that Beata was prone to speak her mind, but I got annoyed with the continued talk of her vestal-ness, her gap in her teeth, and her large size ( that wasn't really large, but curvy). There was so much written about this that I had a hard time even picturing what Beata may have looked like. Anyway, enough there...I also liked the revisit of the Wulfith's, the D'Arci's, and the Levonne's. I also enjoyed the sections on riding the ship and the shipwreck.
Content: A lot of vestal discussions. This is the typical Leigh read.
Language: Clean
Religion: Midieval Chriatianity. Fits the time period more than a religious read.
Happy reading!
I loved having a story around Sir Durand and this was a great story of redemption. I also liked the heroine Beata, but I grew really frustrated with the continued focus on her size. So much so that I grew distracted with the reading. I liked that Beata was prone to speak her mind, but I got annoyed with the continued talk of her vestal-ness, her gap in her teeth, and her large size ( that wasn't really large, but curvy). There was so much written about this that I had a hard time even picturing what Beata may have looked like. Anyway, enough there...I also liked the revisit of the Wulfith's, the D'Arci's, and the Levonne's. I also enjoyed the sections on riding the ship and the shipwreck.
Content: A lot of vestal discussions. This is the typical Leigh read.
Language: Clean
Religion: Midieval Chriatianity. Fits the time period more than a religious read.
Happy reading!
June 6, 2021
At first, I couldn't get into the story because of the narrator. She drops the endings of the words or gets quieter at the end. It was hard to understand so I didn't quite get the beginning of the story. I actually started over after about chapter 5. Once I got used to her, it became easier to get into the story. But the book felt long and I kept wondering when it would end. I've read the other books in this series and those were exciting. This one just seemed mediocre and I wouldn't read it again.
March 25, 2022
It was extremely difficult to get into this one. I had no idea what was happening early on and the story dragged and dragged. Beata was very talkative and outspoken but rather than being charming it was more annoying. It was also irritating how much “the vestal widow” was mentioned. I didn’t connect with either Durand or Beata. They lacked chemistry and their story was quite bland.
CONTENT
Romance: Clean/chaste, innuendo, fade to black intimacy
Language: Mild
Violence: Moderate
CONTENT
Romance: Clean/chaste, innuendo, fade to black intimacy
Language: Mild
Violence: Moderate
February 7, 2020
Premise: Beata Fauvel – a scandalous woman known England to France as The Vestal Widow – is determined to let no one, not even her formidable queen, Eleanor of Aquitaine, dictate her life, even if that means escaping the watchful eye of the queen's favorite knight. Having broken fealty with the Wulfriths, Durand Marshal has been in the queen's favor for some time, and he's not going to lose it now as he guides his vexing charge home to England. But both the lady and knight will risk much when they start feeling for each other more than they should.
Story/Writing: While I try to write good premises for my reviews, the one I wrote above just barely scratches the surface of everything that happens! To say our hero and heroine risk much is a serious understatement! This is the first "Age of Faith" novel in the series that I'm reading for the first time this year, whereas the previous five I've read this year, I've already read before. Nonetheless, a good book is a good book whether it's read the first time or the umpteenth time! Tamara Leigh writes in an author's note at the end that this story was three years in the making. I don't know if that meant she actually spent three years writing this or it's been three years since Durand sold his sword arm to the queen at the time this story takes place. Regardless, she clearly put a lot of time and effort into this story! There are twists and turns I did not see coming! Not to mention there are new settings we haven't seen before in this series, like Normandy and the beach of Sussex following a shipwreck, which is always good for a story like this. Speaking of action and intrigue and tension, alongside the romance, it never stops! From the opening page we're hit with both confusion and curiosity, fueled by organized chaos. Like the chase scene in the beginning, throughout the story our two main leads are almost constantly on edge with barely a second to breathe. Not to mention the great mystery surrounding Beata's past and her dream that wasn't a dream. And of course the main reason for this book existing is to finally give Durand the romantic break he deserves! In other words, this book has got all the things Sir Elias and I love in a good romance! Ironically, not focusing solely on the romance is what makes a good romance for me. With the help of the new settings, it feels close-up and personal yet also epic and large. This story has so many layers of curiosity, intrigue, and of course suspense that I literally could not put it down! Not to mention, since it's set mostly around Christmas, it can make for a good Christmas read. Alas, there's only so much I can put in this part of my review, but hopefully I got the most important points across!
Characters: One of the great things about books like this is that we get to see both old faces and new! It was great seeing all the Wulfriths and their ever-growing families again, even if the subject of this book isn't related to them. Not to mention, it's great seeing characters and settings from previous books that I didn't expect to see again, such as the barony of Wiltford, where Durand sold his sword arm for a time during "The Kindling." Who'd have thought he'd end up becoming the next baron?!
Beata Fauvel – Aside from the name she shares with the youngest Wulfrith sibling and Durand's first love, Beata Fauvel is the night to Beatrix Wulfrith's day in both looks and personality. And while I don't doubt Durand loved the latter, this Beatrix feels like a much better match for him. She does "vex" him throughout the story at almost every turn, but never in a way that feels childish or immature. Beata challenges Durand to become the man he's meant to be, while he in turn challenges her to put off her public face (so to speak) and take a chance on being loved for who she is, rather than just "The Vestal Widow." Of course, it helps that she was encouraged – or "indulged" as they put it – by her first husband to be outspoken and opinionated. And you can tell that meant a lot to her and helped a lot in making her who she is. Yet at the same time, she's not without her vulnerabilities, particularly the dream/memory she keeps bringing up. At first I thought the leaves thing was just a metaphor, but what the story did with it and what it was revealed to be just blew me away (no pun intended). Not to mention, it makes sense that she would bury such a memory (again, no pun intended) at the back of her mind. Any four-year-old would be traumatized bearing witness to their cousin stabbing a man to death. And while you do kinda get frustrated at her parents convincing her it was all a dream, let's be honest, would you want your four-year-old remembering something that horrific? But, back to Beata, while she did "vex" me sometimes as much as Durand did, I never found her annoying. If anything, she's immensely likable. I really felt for her at times, especially when she was forced to endure that awful examination! All I can say is I'm so happy she found the true love of her life in Durand!
Durand Marshal – Speaking of Durand, it's about time he landed the opportunity to get together with a woman he loved, and she him! After Beatrix Wulfrith and then Helene (debatably), the third time's the charm! But of course, it doesn't come without the hard work of perseverance and maintaining his hard-earned honor. As much as you feel for Beata, if you've read the previous books, you feel arguably more for Durand! He's worked so hard to make up for his transgressions and breaking fealty with the family who made him the knight he is. Now he's fallen in love with another woman who may yet again be off-limits. Even if you know they're gonna get together in the end, you really feel the impossibility of the situation as well as his hopelessness and despair and it's heartbreaking! Of course, that makes it all the more wonderful when they do finally get together, and with the queen's permission! And while this book does have its fair amount of the cliché where the couple doesn't get along in the beginning even though we know they're gonna get together in the end, it's actually pretty brief. By the end of the first third, you can see the seeds of their romance being planted. At first Durand thinks Beata is just a vain and vexing heiress, but then she saves his life by bargaining with the captain and his crew; she sews his wound together despite not being a healer like Helene; and there's something about her past that's clearly traumatized her, possibly contributing to the face she puts on for everyone at Eleanor's court. Coupled with the fact that he's now wiser, having learned from his trespasses, we have a hero worthy of the nickname "gallant monk," however much he dislikes it! Even when he has to be around others who haven't fully forgiven him, what ultimately matters is that Beata loves him despite his failings!
Queen Eleanor – One of my favorite things about "The Longing" was the introduction of Henry II's formidable queen, Eleanor of Aquitaine. What I found charmingly amusing was that, in this book, she mostly referred to herself using the pronouns "we," "us," and "our(s)" – rather than the usual "I," "me," and "my/mine." As strange as it may sound to us, it is a fitting trait, considering she was the most powerful woman in Europe in her day. I did like that she empathized with Beata's dilemma of being an heiress dealing with unwanted suitors, even as she tried to impose her own preferential match. Still, I like how she had this majestic air about her and made it clear she was not someone you'd want to cross, while at the same time being quite magnanimous, given she approved of Beata's marriage with Durand, even as she regretted parting with her "gallant monk." With that in mind, I also give her credit for allowing Durand to ease into his new role as a baron, even if he didn't know it yet. Given he was a landless knight before that, it made sense to allow him to show himself capable of handling a barony for roughly four months, thereby proving to be a good match for Beata.
Elias de Morville – Just as it was great to see Eleanor of Aquitaine again, it was just as great to see our favorite troubadour knight again! For one thing, since Elias was originally from France, it makes sense that he would've crossed paths with Beata from time to time as he took charge of his own inheritance. That said, even though the tables of fortune have turned, it's great that Elias is still his wise-cracking, thespian, poetic self! One of my favorite parts is when Durand is talking with him about his shared dilemma with Beata, and Elias says it would make quite the tale if there was a chase, a murder, and seemingly no hope of our lovers reuniting mixed in, and then all that stuff comes to pass! Plus, I gotta give this guy some serious credit for taking hits first from Everard in "The Longing" and then from Durand in "The Vexing," and just shrugging them off like they're no big deal. If anything, he clearly enjoys throwing his opponents off, as evidenced by his sword-fighting style. And yeah, it was awful reading about how he pretty much got reduced to a sick shell of himself while Beata was taken away to marry Lothaire. But I was glad when he bounced back from it like he does just about everything!
Baron and Emmerich Rodelle – Even though Beata's brother doesn't get as much time as their father, I did like Emmerich. He's definitely a lot like his sister in that he doesn't want his anyone to dictate his life any more than they already have, though who knows how he would've turned out if the shock from witnessing Baron Soames's murder didn't cause Lady Rodelle to go into labor early. Still, he obviously knows and loves Beata, even going so far as to refusing to participate in her marriage ceremony to Lothaire. As for Baron Rodelle, he does have some knocks against him, such as marrying a teenage girl and wearing her out in just three years; trying to fool Durand and therefore the queen by pretending his newest infant son is still alive; covering up Baron Soames's murder rather than bringing his nephew to court; and especially trying to marry Beata off against her will and the queen's. But at the same time, he's not completely villainous and is even somewhat sympathetic. He does try to enforce his will on his daughter, but he's not cruel. Even if it doesn't excuse all his actions, his desperation is somewhat understandable. I'm just happy he made amends and approves of Durand in the end.
Various Other Characters – Speaking of sympathetic antagonists, while Lothaire does seem like a jerk at first, going so far as to require Beata to submit to an examination, when you consider his relationship history (or what he believes happened), it is somewhat understandable. Even when he tries to force Beata to marry him, it's only after he learns that her cousin murdered his father, so of course he'd want some compensation. I just hope he's more likable in "The Awakening." Moving on though, as mentioned earlier, it was great to again see the Wulfriths and their growing families! Even as I knew Garr would most likely make it back to his family, I still felt the legit fears and worries of Durand, Beata, and the other Wulfriths. It was great to see Abel and Durand reconciled as much as possible. Which reminds me, that was another thing I really liked about "The Longing," that the brothers decided to take turns presiding over Wulfen, while allowing their wives to stay in the tower room when they visit, as well as taking advantage of the secret passageways to allow the ladies to discreetly enter the solar and have dinner with their husbands! But back to this book, even if the Lavonnes couldn't join the Wulfriths for Christmas, it was great seeing Beata befriending Gaenor! And even if Beata did unintentionally insult Lady Isobel, Lady Isobel clearly needed to allow herself to forgive Durand as she couldn't forgive her husband. I felt awful for poor Winifred and hope she's happy at the convent! Petronilla's first appearance since "The Kindling" was also a pleasant surprise. I also like that we got some insight into characters who are dead but were nonetheless important. Despite being old enough to be her grandfather and seeing her more as a daughter than a wife, Conrad Fauvel clearly loved Beata in his own way, particularly by seeing the injustice of a fifty-something-year-old man sleeping with a fourteen-year-old girl, and of course "indulging" her more than medieval Europe was comfortable with. And even if Ralf did murder Baron Soames and there's absolutely no excuse for it, it's kinda sad that his guilt over it ate through at him to the point where he committed suicide.
Overall: Even though the Wulfriths are all now happily married, Tamara Leigh clearly still has some fantastic storytelling magic up her sleeve! My only regret is that I read the first five multiple times before reading this the first time, but that in now way detracts from how good they've all been so far!
Story/Writing: While I try to write good premises for my reviews, the one I wrote above just barely scratches the surface of everything that happens! To say our hero and heroine risk much is a serious understatement! This is the first "Age of Faith" novel in the series that I'm reading for the first time this year, whereas the previous five I've read this year, I've already read before. Nonetheless, a good book is a good book whether it's read the first time or the umpteenth time! Tamara Leigh writes in an author's note at the end that this story was three years in the making. I don't know if that meant she actually spent three years writing this or it's been three years since Durand sold his sword arm to the queen at the time this story takes place. Regardless, she clearly put a lot of time and effort into this story! There are twists and turns I did not see coming! Not to mention there are new settings we haven't seen before in this series, like Normandy and the beach of Sussex following a shipwreck, which is always good for a story like this. Speaking of action and intrigue and tension, alongside the romance, it never stops! From the opening page we're hit with both confusion and curiosity, fueled by organized chaos. Like the chase scene in the beginning, throughout the story our two main leads are almost constantly on edge with barely a second to breathe. Not to mention the great mystery surrounding Beata's past and her dream that wasn't a dream. And of course the main reason for this book existing is to finally give Durand the romantic break he deserves! In other words, this book has got all the things Sir Elias and I love in a good romance! Ironically, not focusing solely on the romance is what makes a good romance for me. With the help of the new settings, it feels close-up and personal yet also epic and large. This story has so many layers of curiosity, intrigue, and of course suspense that I literally could not put it down! Not to mention, since it's set mostly around Christmas, it can make for a good Christmas read. Alas, there's only so much I can put in this part of my review, but hopefully I got the most important points across!
Characters: One of the great things about books like this is that we get to see both old faces and new! It was great seeing all the Wulfriths and their ever-growing families again, even if the subject of this book isn't related to them. Not to mention, it's great seeing characters and settings from previous books that I didn't expect to see again, such as the barony of Wiltford, where Durand sold his sword arm for a time during "The Kindling." Who'd have thought he'd end up becoming the next baron?!
Beata Fauvel – Aside from the name she shares with the youngest Wulfrith sibling and Durand's first love, Beata Fauvel is the night to Beatrix Wulfrith's day in both looks and personality. And while I don't doubt Durand loved the latter, this Beatrix feels like a much better match for him. She does "vex" him throughout the story at almost every turn, but never in a way that feels childish or immature. Beata challenges Durand to become the man he's meant to be, while he in turn challenges her to put off her public face (so to speak) and take a chance on being loved for who she is, rather than just "The Vestal Widow." Of course, it helps that she was encouraged – or "indulged" as they put it – by her first husband to be outspoken and opinionated. And you can tell that meant a lot to her and helped a lot in making her who she is. Yet at the same time, she's not without her vulnerabilities, particularly the dream/memory she keeps bringing up. At first I thought the leaves thing was just a metaphor, but what the story did with it and what it was revealed to be just blew me away (no pun intended). Not to mention, it makes sense that she would bury such a memory (again, no pun intended) at the back of her mind. Any four-year-old would be traumatized bearing witness to their cousin stabbing a man to death. And while you do kinda get frustrated at her parents convincing her it was all a dream, let's be honest, would you want your four-year-old remembering something that horrific? But, back to Beata, while she did "vex" me sometimes as much as Durand did, I never found her annoying. If anything, she's immensely likable. I really felt for her at times, especially when she was forced to endure that awful examination! All I can say is I'm so happy she found the true love of her life in Durand!
Durand Marshal – Speaking of Durand, it's about time he landed the opportunity to get together with a woman he loved, and she him! After Beatrix Wulfrith and then Helene (debatably), the third time's the charm! But of course, it doesn't come without the hard work of perseverance and maintaining his hard-earned honor. As much as you feel for Beata, if you've read the previous books, you feel arguably more for Durand! He's worked so hard to make up for his transgressions and breaking fealty with the family who made him the knight he is. Now he's fallen in love with another woman who may yet again be off-limits. Even if you know they're gonna get together in the end, you really feel the impossibility of the situation as well as his hopelessness and despair and it's heartbreaking! Of course, that makes it all the more wonderful when they do finally get together, and with the queen's permission! And while this book does have its fair amount of the cliché where the couple doesn't get along in the beginning even though we know they're gonna get together in the end, it's actually pretty brief. By the end of the first third, you can see the seeds of their romance being planted. At first Durand thinks Beata is just a vain and vexing heiress, but then she saves his life by bargaining with the captain and his crew; she sews his wound together despite not being a healer like Helene; and there's something about her past that's clearly traumatized her, possibly contributing to the face she puts on for everyone at Eleanor's court. Coupled with the fact that he's now wiser, having learned from his trespasses, we have a hero worthy of the nickname "gallant monk," however much he dislikes it! Even when he has to be around others who haven't fully forgiven him, what ultimately matters is that Beata loves him despite his failings!
Queen Eleanor – One of my favorite things about "The Longing" was the introduction of Henry II's formidable queen, Eleanor of Aquitaine. What I found charmingly amusing was that, in this book, she mostly referred to herself using the pronouns "we," "us," and "our(s)" – rather than the usual "I," "me," and "my/mine." As strange as it may sound to us, it is a fitting trait, considering she was the most powerful woman in Europe in her day. I did like that she empathized with Beata's dilemma of being an heiress dealing with unwanted suitors, even as she tried to impose her own preferential match. Still, I like how she had this majestic air about her and made it clear she was not someone you'd want to cross, while at the same time being quite magnanimous, given she approved of Beata's marriage with Durand, even as she regretted parting with her "gallant monk." With that in mind, I also give her credit for allowing Durand to ease into his new role as a baron, even if he didn't know it yet. Given he was a landless knight before that, it made sense to allow him to show himself capable of handling a barony for roughly four months, thereby proving to be a good match for Beata.
Elias de Morville – Just as it was great to see Eleanor of Aquitaine again, it was just as great to see our favorite troubadour knight again! For one thing, since Elias was originally from France, it makes sense that he would've crossed paths with Beata from time to time as he took charge of his own inheritance. That said, even though the tables of fortune have turned, it's great that Elias is still his wise-cracking, thespian, poetic self! One of my favorite parts is when Durand is talking with him about his shared dilemma with Beata, and Elias says it would make quite the tale if there was a chase, a murder, and seemingly no hope of our lovers reuniting mixed in, and then all that stuff comes to pass! Plus, I gotta give this guy some serious credit for taking hits first from Everard in "The Longing" and then from Durand in "The Vexing," and just shrugging them off like they're no big deal. If anything, he clearly enjoys throwing his opponents off, as evidenced by his sword-fighting style. And yeah, it was awful reading about how he pretty much got reduced to a sick shell of himself while Beata was taken away to marry Lothaire. But I was glad when he bounced back from it like he does just about everything!
Baron and Emmerich Rodelle – Even though Beata's brother doesn't get as much time as their father, I did like Emmerich. He's definitely a lot like his sister in that he doesn't want his anyone to dictate his life any more than they already have, though who knows how he would've turned out if the shock from witnessing Baron Soames's murder didn't cause Lady Rodelle to go into labor early. Still, he obviously knows and loves Beata, even going so far as to refusing to participate in her marriage ceremony to Lothaire. As for Baron Rodelle, he does have some knocks against him, such as marrying a teenage girl and wearing her out in just three years; trying to fool Durand and therefore the queen by pretending his newest infant son is still alive; covering up Baron Soames's murder rather than bringing his nephew to court; and especially trying to marry Beata off against her will and the queen's. But at the same time, he's not completely villainous and is even somewhat sympathetic. He does try to enforce his will on his daughter, but he's not cruel. Even if it doesn't excuse all his actions, his desperation is somewhat understandable. I'm just happy he made amends and approves of Durand in the end.
Various Other Characters – Speaking of sympathetic antagonists, while Lothaire does seem like a jerk at first, going so far as to require Beata to submit to an examination, when you consider his relationship history (or what he believes happened), it is somewhat understandable. Even when he tries to force Beata to marry him, it's only after he learns that her cousin murdered his father, so of course he'd want some compensation. I just hope he's more likable in "The Awakening." Moving on though, as mentioned earlier, it was great to again see the Wulfriths and their growing families! Even as I knew Garr would most likely make it back to his family, I still felt the legit fears and worries of Durand, Beata, and the other Wulfriths. It was great to see Abel and Durand reconciled as much as possible. Which reminds me, that was another thing I really liked about "The Longing," that the brothers decided to take turns presiding over Wulfen, while allowing their wives to stay in the tower room when they visit, as well as taking advantage of the secret passageways to allow the ladies to discreetly enter the solar and have dinner with their husbands! But back to this book, even if the Lavonnes couldn't join the Wulfriths for Christmas, it was great seeing Beata befriending Gaenor! And even if Beata did unintentionally insult Lady Isobel, Lady Isobel clearly needed to allow herself to forgive Durand as she couldn't forgive her husband. I felt awful for poor Winifred and hope she's happy at the convent! Petronilla's first appearance since "The Kindling" was also a pleasant surprise. I also like that we got some insight into characters who are dead but were nonetheless important. Despite being old enough to be her grandfather and seeing her more as a daughter than a wife, Conrad Fauvel clearly loved Beata in his own way, particularly by seeing the injustice of a fifty-something-year-old man sleeping with a fourteen-year-old girl, and of course "indulging" her more than medieval Europe was comfortable with. And even if Ralf did murder Baron Soames and there's absolutely no excuse for it, it's kinda sad that his guilt over it ate through at him to the point where he committed suicide.
Overall: Even though the Wulfriths are all now happily married, Tamara Leigh clearly still has some fantastic storytelling magic up her sleeve! My only regret is that I read the first five multiple times before reading this the first time, but that in now way detracts from how good they've all been so far!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2018
Such a great book, amazing author, endearing characters, passion, mystery, stress, lust...I'm ruined for my Amish fiction forever. Sadly, the library has no more of the 6 books in the series and they don't sell cheap even on Amazon but I may just have to break open the piggy bank.
October 23, 2018
Complete series review on Faithfully Bookish.com
Who can resist a tale of knights in shining armor and damsels in distress?! Medieval times are often romanticized but if it's wrong, I don't want to be right!
Between her outspoken nature and her unorthodox marriage, classifying Lady Beata Fauvel as an interesting character is an understatement (methinks The Vexing is aptly named). Sir Durand Marshal has made a royal mess of his life in previous books yet his sorrowful and genuine repentance makes his own story all the more entertaining and sincere.
I have immensely enjoyed reading and rereading the Age of Faith series over the last few years and highly recommend it for delightful binge reading. One of my favorite aspects of this series is the way each plot is skillfully intertwined with the other installments. The characters' lives interconnect in genuine relationships forged by struggle, strife, and love. Tamara Leigh's stories are guilty pleasure reading without the guilt and are among my all-time favorites.
These books were either purchased by me or borrowed through the Kindle Unlimited program. The opinions expressed are my own.
Who can resist a tale of knights in shining armor and damsels in distress?! Medieval times are often romanticized but if it's wrong, I don't want to be right!
Between her outspoken nature and her unorthodox marriage, classifying Lady Beata Fauvel as an interesting character is an understatement (methinks The Vexing is aptly named). Sir Durand Marshal has made a royal mess of his life in previous books yet his sorrowful and genuine repentance makes his own story all the more entertaining and sincere.
I have immensely enjoyed reading and rereading the Age of Faith series over the last few years and highly recommend it for delightful binge reading. One of my favorite aspects of this series is the way each plot is skillfully intertwined with the other installments. The characters' lives interconnect in genuine relationships forged by struggle, strife, and love. Tamara Leigh's stories are guilty pleasure reading without the guilt and are among my all-time favorites.
These books were either purchased by me or borrowed through the Kindle Unlimited program. The opinions expressed are my own.
July 8, 2021
Once I start a Tamara Leigh story, I never want it to end! Her characters are always so wonderful and her storylines are always excellent and never cookie cutter! I don’t usually gravitate towards medievals, but Ms. Leigh’s are absolutely must reads!
While this is a stand-a-lone story, Sir Durand is introduced to us in previous Age of Faith stories. He had a little redeeming that needed to be done and I’m here to tell you, he was redeemed perfectly! He is so honorable, loyal, and kind and I loved his and Beata’s story - every second of it! Beata is such a great character! She’s strong, defends those she loves, and always tries to do the right thing. I loved everything about this couple and this story!
I also really enjoyed catching up with the previous characters in this series. I’m looking forward to reading The Awakening next! Baron Soames is introduced to us in The Vexing and I am intrigued!
While this is a stand-a-lone story, Sir Durand is introduced to us in previous Age of Faith stories. He had a little redeeming that needed to be done and I’m here to tell you, he was redeemed perfectly! He is so honorable, loyal, and kind and I loved his and Beata’s story - every second of it! Beata is such a great character! She’s strong, defends those she loves, and always tries to do the right thing. I loved everything about this couple and this story!
I also really enjoyed catching up with the previous characters in this series. I’m looking forward to reading The Awakening next! Baron Soames is introduced to us in The Vexing and I am intrigued!
June 19, 2022
Fantastic addition to a great series.
Sir Durand is a knight haunted by the guilt of past sin. Lady Beta is a woman caught in a power struggle between her father and the queen. When the queen charges Durand to deliver Lady Beta to her Father and to make sure she does not wed a man unless the queen aproves, the adventure begins.
I loved how well the plot moved in this book, the author never let it drag, and always held my interest. The romance was perfect. Both are drawn towards each other, though they know theirs is a match that can never be. I loved the message of how we are to call upon and trust God to help us and not to take matters into our own hands if it causes us to sin.
This Author knows how to write!
Sir Durand is a knight haunted by the guilt of past sin. Lady Beta is a woman caught in a power struggle between her father and the queen. When the queen charges Durand to deliver Lady Beta to her Father and to make sure she does not wed a man unless the queen aproves, the adventure begins.
I loved how well the plot moved in this book, the author never let it drag, and always held my interest. The romance was perfect. Both are drawn towards each other, though they know theirs is a match that can never be. I loved the message of how we are to call upon and trust God to help us and not to take matters into our own hands if it causes us to sin.
This Author knows how to write!
July 25, 2018
Love it! Love it!! So worth the wait. What an amazing read. I almost cried from the ripping and then almost again when what was revealed by Queen Elanor. Superb!
2nd time through the book: Audio version:
Mary Sarah was an amazing performer. She really made the book come alive. Heart-wrenching last couple of chapters. Almost in tears...again! I'm very determined not to cry while reading a work of fiction but between Ms. Leigh and Ms. Mary Sarah, it was very difficult to keep those emotions at bay. What a fabulous read/listen. I love Sir Durand. He's so relatable, as is Lady Beata. I love how imperfect they both were and they still came together and are such a lovely couple! *sigh
2nd time through the book: Audio version:
Mary Sarah was an amazing performer. She really made the book come alive. Heart-wrenching last couple of chapters. Almost in tears...again! I'm very determined not to cry while reading a work of fiction but between Ms. Leigh and Ms. Mary Sarah, it was very difficult to keep those emotions at bay. What a fabulous read/listen. I love Sir Durand. He's so relatable, as is Lady Beata. I love how imperfect they both were and they still came together and are such a lovely couple! *sigh
November 26, 2017
Oh, Durand. I am so glad he got his own HEA! During the Age of Faith series, I went from loathing him, to tolerating him, to liking him, to hoping he would one day be fully redeemed and find love. And The Vexing did not disappoint. His and Beata’s story was worth the wait. And their story leads to another Age of Faith story...what could be better? I truly hope this series keeps multiplying, because I never want it to end. ❤️
November 5, 2023
Best book in this series! Loved it so much I read it 4 times and finally bought the book!
So happy Sir Durand got his own story told.
So happy Sir Durand got his own story told.
February 27, 2024
Ah, Durand! I have hated you, pitied you, forgiven you, liked you, and hoped for you, and now, at last, I congratulate you on your own happy ending.
June 19, 2017
My review today is on The Vexing. This is the sixth book of the Age of Faith: A Medieval Romance Series. I have waited for this story and I am thrilled with the book. Tamara, I must say you did Sir Durand justice. I loved the book and really look forward to The Awakening. This book takes place in the twelfth century, a time I love to read about it but would not like to live there.
Sir Durand Marshal is in the Queen's Personal Guard. He is known by her as her Gallant Monk although it is not a good title for the handsome knight. He has a dishonorable past concerning women and the queen is aware of it. He is trying to make it up to those whom he has dishonored. He doesn't understand that he has already been forgiven by the ones he had harmed. He is on his way to meet the king and queen when he runs into a group Count Verielle's men pursuing a young woman and her three knights on the King's land. He tries to rescue the woman only to be attacked by her. He must throw her to the ground or lose his seat and both be trampled by his warhorse. They take the woman and her men to the Queen but they refuses to tell him her name or her business in crossing the king's land. The woman is vexing and he wants no part of her. When he hears that her name is Beatrix the same as his beloved he almost becomes sick. Only to be told that he must escort the woman to her father.
Lady Beatrix, known as the Vestral Wife and now the Vestral Widow as she was married to a man old enough to be her grandfather and the man had never consummated the marriage, was on her way to meet with her father at his command. Her father had no heir since his wife of sixteen had given him two still born sons and one that was surely going to die. He would marry his daughter off to a man who needed money that he would become the baron in his place. Lady Beata, (What she wanted everyone to call her) must tell no one about being the heiress for then the queen would marry her off to the man of her choice. She is determined to escape Sir Durand's escort.
A journey of attacks, shipwrecks, and mysteries. Durand and Beata struggle to get to her father. As they arrive the child has already died and her father had set up a marriage. It is Sir Durand job to stop the marriage until the queen decides who she shall marry. God has a plan for these two, a plan for a hope and a future, of good and not for evil. God has a plan for you too. Give Him your heart and watch Him work
Sir Durand Marshal is in the Queen's Personal Guard. He is known by her as her Gallant Monk although it is not a good title for the handsome knight. He has a dishonorable past concerning women and the queen is aware of it. He is trying to make it up to those whom he has dishonored. He doesn't understand that he has already been forgiven by the ones he had harmed. He is on his way to meet the king and queen when he runs into a group Count Verielle's men pursuing a young woman and her three knights on the King's land. He tries to rescue the woman only to be attacked by her. He must throw her to the ground or lose his seat and both be trampled by his warhorse. They take the woman and her men to the Queen but they refuses to tell him her name or her business in crossing the king's land. The woman is vexing and he wants no part of her. When he hears that her name is Beatrix the same as his beloved he almost becomes sick. Only to be told that he must escort the woman to her father.
Lady Beatrix, known as the Vestral Wife and now the Vestral Widow as she was married to a man old enough to be her grandfather and the man had never consummated the marriage, was on her way to meet with her father at his command. Her father had no heir since his wife of sixteen had given him two still born sons and one that was surely going to die. He would marry his daughter off to a man who needed money that he would become the baron in his place. Lady Beata, (What she wanted everyone to call her) must tell no one about being the heiress for then the queen would marry her off to the man of her choice. She is determined to escape Sir Durand's escort.
A journey of attacks, shipwrecks, and mysteries. Durand and Beata struggle to get to her father. As they arrive the child has already died and her father had set up a marriage. It is Sir Durand job to stop the marriage until the queen decides who she shall marry. God has a plan for these two, a plan for a hope and a future, of good and not for evil. God has a plan for you too. Give Him your heart and watch Him work
September 2, 2024
4.5 stars - Ah my wonderful dear sir Durand and his vexing lady, a most romantic tale and I'm overjoyed for your happy ending 😭🤗.
If you're looking for your next romantic fix, look no further, Tamara has done it again with these two and they are delicious together lol. The vexing heroine tries the gallant knight's patience to thee max lol. I really enjoyed the romance, she became attracted first, and sir Durand kept having to fend her off for throwing herself at him lol and then he of course became attracted as well. She also caused all kinds of trouble, and he had to save her from one scenario after another. There was plenty of time to get to know each other as he had to accompany her from France to England and they made several stops along the way before they got to her destination. Plenty of time for Sir Durand to go from finding her vexing to most endearing lol. I loved loved loved it 🥰 My third favorite after The unveiling and the longing...
The thing I didn't like about Abel's story is that he and Helene spent so much time apart, and even when they were together he was holding himself from her and vice versa. Not these two who spent 90% of the book together, and she wouldn't let him get away with saying no to her lol.
Also, all the Wulfriths made an appearance as these two had to go first to wulfen castle then to stern, and finally to broehne castle. It was quite the adventure tale. Sir Durand also reconciled with his former bestie Abel, which was very sweet. And his budding friendship with Sir Elias was quite endearing, I'm looking forward to Elias' book.
The 1 person I didn't like was the Baron Soames, he pissed me right off when he put her through that horrible exam, and I don't really care that he had his reasons, 😤 he can sod right off. I'm not sure I'll be able to read his book. But then I hated sir Durand at one point too, so I'm sure he will be redeemed.
If you're looking for your next romantic fix, look no further, Tamara has done it again with these two and they are delicious together lol. The vexing heroine tries the gallant knight's patience to thee max lol. I really enjoyed the romance, she became attracted first, and sir Durand kept having to fend her off for throwing herself at him lol and then he of course became attracted as well. She also caused all kinds of trouble, and he had to save her from one scenario after another. There was plenty of time to get to know each other as he had to accompany her from France to England and they made several stops along the way before they got to her destination. Plenty of time for Sir Durand to go from finding her vexing to most endearing lol. I loved loved loved it 🥰 My third favorite after The unveiling and the longing...
The thing I didn't like about Abel's story is that he and Helene spent so much time apart, and even when they were together he was holding himself from her and vice versa. Not these two who spent 90% of the book together, and she wouldn't let him get away with saying no to her lol.
Also, all the Wulfriths made an appearance as these two had to go first to wulfen castle then to stern, and finally to broehne castle. It was quite the adventure tale. Sir Durand also reconciled with his former bestie Abel, which was very sweet. And his budding friendship with Sir Elias was quite endearing, I'm looking forward to Elias' book.
The 1 person I didn't like was the Baron Soames, he pissed me right off when he put her through that horrible exam, and I don't really care that he had his reasons, 😤 he can sod right off. I'm not sure I'll be able to read his book. But then I hated sir Durand at one point too, so I'm sure he will be redeemed.
May 18, 2017
Long have I awaited Sir Durand's tale, and it most certainly did not disappoint! Like this whole series, I was hooked from the beginning and found it incredibly hard to step away from its' pages. Leigh brings forth the tension, excitement, hope, redemption, grace, and romance we all hope to see and feel as this story unfolds. I enjoyed getting to know Lady Beata, this vexing woman that drives Durand to distraction. There are of course, barriers to be overcome, emotions and pasts to be worked through, trust and lessons to be learned. Ultimately, it ends just as you want it to.
I enjoyed moments with characters from previous novels in this series. And Leigh is not done with this series yet - yay! There are several other characters who I would like to see have their story told. Elias for one, and Sir Lothaire, who's story is to be told next. For fans of this series, Lady Laura of The Yielding will be in this tale also! I loved the excerpt that was included and am eager for the Winter 2017/18 release!
*** CRR - kissing
(SPOILER - There is one scene that some readers may have issue with. At a certain point during the story Beata is married in name only, the deed somewhat forced and quickly done. There is no consummation of the marriage and it is most likely to be annulled. However, during this time there is a moment (kiss) shared between our hero and heroine.)
I enjoyed moments with characters from previous novels in this series. And Leigh is not done with this series yet - yay! There are several other characters who I would like to see have their story told. Elias for one, and Sir Lothaire, who's story is to be told next. For fans of this series, Lady Laura of The Yielding will be in this tale also! I loved the excerpt that was included and am eager for the Winter 2017/18 release!
*** CRR - kissing
(SPOILER - There is one scene that some readers may have issue with. At a certain point during the story Beata is married in name only, the deed somewhat forced and quickly done. There is no consummation of the marriage and it is most likely to be annulled. However, during this time there is a moment (kiss) shared between our hero and heroine.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2018
This is the sixth book in the Age of Faith series about the medieval Wulfrith family. I'm so glad that the author gave Sir Durand his own story. I was so sad when he failed the Wulfrith family and suffered for it. Sir Durand's story comes full circle here. He is not only reconciled with, but restored to the Wulfrith family. Beata was an interesting and sympathetic character. Her backstory is slowly revealed and you feel how she is used as a pawn because of being a woman of that time period. I really enjoyed the growing relationship between Durand and Beata, the romantic tension, the spiritual content, and the appearances of the Wulfrith family. This story can be read as a stand alone but I think you will appreciate Sir Durand's story arc more if you read the other books in the series. I think he first appeared in book 1 but his greatest contributions (and failing) were in books 2, 3, and 4. (He eventually reveals his past to Beata if you don't know it already.) The story sets up Lothaire's story in book 7 and I can't wait!
May 28, 2017
Tamara Leigh's stories often have a redeeming quality to them. It is surprising but welcome. At first I was unsure if I wanted to read Sir Durand's story given his history, but he became such a man of honor, strength, and goodness that I fell in love with him as much as any Wulfrith!
I also love a good shipwreck story and this one had me holding my breath the whole time!
I felt this story flowed a little better than a couple of her last novels which I appreciated. (sometimes the mideval speak can sound a little awkward or convoluted in my mind and I have to slow down.) I prefer it smooth, even if it's not technically the word order or syntax of authentic mideval language.
Tamara's mideval stories will always be a go-to for me when when I want a clean romantic read. They have the benefit of making me want to see the good in other too. A beautiful balance and a worthy motive for writing.
I also love a good shipwreck story and this one had me holding my breath the whole time!
I felt this story flowed a little better than a couple of her last novels which I appreciated. (sometimes the mideval speak can sound a little awkward or convoluted in my mind and I have to slow down.) I prefer it smooth, even if it's not technically the word order or syntax of authentic mideval language.
Tamara's mideval stories will always be a go-to for me when when I want a clean romantic read. They have the benefit of making me want to see the good in other too. A beautiful balance and a worthy motive for writing.
December 20, 2019
God speaks through fiction.
“Now help us not hold tight to those earthly things we long for lest You be torn from our grasp.”
Words fail me in describing my enjoyment of each and every book in this series. The magnitude of plot and depth of character development are so rarely found elsewhere. Thank you, Tamara Leigh.
I think the tail of Sir Durand is my favorite, so far (2 more to read). The quote I shared above is a resounding truth I am learning in my own life and I'll honestly acknowledge my surprise in the comfort I find in it among the grief of loss which is my daily companion. I am, as always, thankful for God's faithfulness to me amidst my flailing faithfulness to life with Him. Everyday He proves the depth of His love for me in ever drawing me closer to His side and in this quote Tamara has provided an excellent and brief summary that I can carry with me always.
Again, to Tamara, I say Thank you.
“Now help us not hold tight to those earthly things we long for lest You be torn from our grasp.”
Words fail me in describing my enjoyment of each and every book in this series. The magnitude of plot and depth of character development are so rarely found elsewhere. Thank you, Tamara Leigh.
I think the tail of Sir Durand is my favorite, so far (2 more to read). The quote I shared above is a resounding truth I am learning in my own life and I'll honestly acknowledge my surprise in the comfort I find in it among the grief of loss which is my daily companion. I am, as always, thankful for God's faithfulness to me amidst my flailing faithfulness to life with Him. Everyday He proves the depth of His love for me in ever drawing me closer to His side and in this quote Tamara has provided an excellent and brief summary that I can carry with me always.
Again, to Tamara, I say Thank you.
October 21, 2018
Much more satisfying than expected!
I wasn’t very excited to read Sir Durant’s story because he’s not a Wulfrith nor was he especially honorable. But, I love the series so I decided to continue the order. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. This author really captures imperfect humans struggling to overcome their faults, failings and sins. She does an exceptional job of placing her characters in the very situations that are most likely to expose their sinful propensities and then weaves her tales on how their aspirations and love enable them to achieve their ambitions. Her plots are engrossing, the dialogue is genuine and memorable and her hero and heroine are always so well suited. I’ve not been disappointed in a single match up. Only two books remaining in the series. I’m so glad she will be launching a new series, The Age of Conquest. I’ve pre-ordered the first book.
I wasn’t very excited to read Sir Durant’s story because he’s not a Wulfrith nor was he especially honorable. But, I love the series so I decided to continue the order. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. This author really captures imperfect humans struggling to overcome their faults, failings and sins. She does an exceptional job of placing her characters in the very situations that are most likely to expose their sinful propensities and then weaves her tales on how their aspirations and love enable them to achieve their ambitions. Her plots are engrossing, the dialogue is genuine and memorable and her hero and heroine are always so well suited. I’ve not been disappointed in a single match up. Only two books remaining in the series. I’m so glad she will be launching a new series, The Age of Conquest. I’ve pre-ordered the first book.
February 22, 2019
Ugh...what to say about this book. It's tough to write a negative review, because this is one of my favorite authors. But I want to be honest. I just didn't get this book. I started it almost two years ago and just finished it. I was so excited for yet another addition to the Age of Faith series, but I just couldn't get into it. I don't know if it was the wording or the plot (I did NOT understand why Beata was on the run and what Durand had to do with it until 3/4 of the way through the book), so I put it down. For a year and a half. Because I've heard great things about books 7 and 8, I decided I'd finish this one so I didn't miss any important details/plot lines. Towards the end, it did get better and I started to understand what was going on, but it shouldn't be that hard. I'm still looking forward to the rest of the series.
April 16, 2019
Ah, Sir Durand. Always the antagonist, never the hero, Durand finally receives a story of his own. After Helene’s marriage to Abel, Durand swears his sword to Queen Eleanor, going to the continent to serve at the queen’s court. When Eleanor demands that he escort Beata Fauvel, a young and high-spirited widow, back to England, Durand grits his teeth and obeys. Lady Beata has ideas of her own about where her trip should end up, however, and Durand finds that his powers of persuasion and pursuit will be stretched to the limit if he is to carry out his mission.
While Beata was not really my favorite heroine, I enjoyed seeing Durand finally find his own match. Eleanor of Aquitaine figured heavily in this book, adding more of a historical component than other books in the series where the historical characters are simply tapestry on the walls.
While Beata was not really my favorite heroine, I enjoyed seeing Durand finally find his own match. Eleanor of Aquitaine figured heavily in this book, adding more of a historical component than other books in the series where the historical characters are simply tapestry on the walls.
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