Redemption

The Montbryce Legacy #3

by Anna Markland

Set in the aftermath of the Norman Conquest, Book Three of the Montbryce Legacy Anniversary Edition is the story of Caedmon Woolgar, the illegitimate son of a Norman earl, Ram de Montbryce.

A warrior who has always believed he is the son of a Saxon martyr of the Battle of Hastings, Caedmon's discovery of his bastardy threatens to destroy him and his marriage to Agneta Kirkthwaite. He has suddenly become the epitome of everything he despises and seeks redemption by going off to join the First Crusade. His heroic deeds take the reader on an emotional journey to find himself, as he travels across Europe to Asia Minor.

Agneta harbors hatreds of her own over the massacre of her family and the destruction of her ancestral home—a crime Caedmon unwittingly participated in.

Can love help them overcome hatred and forge a powerful dynasty of their own, or is it unlikely forgiveness will triumph in a brutal climate of political and religious turmoil?

Redemption is set against the backdrop of the rule of King William Rufus and the attempts of the Scottish King Malcolm Canmore to take control of Northumbria from the Normans.

Genres: Historical Romance, Medieval, Romance, Medieval Romance, Historical, Historical Fiction

312 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 29, 2011

About the author

Anna Markland is a Canadian author with a keen interest in genealogy. She writes historical romance about family honor, ancestry and roots. Her novels are intimate love stories filled with passion and adventure. Following a fruitful career in teaching, Anna transformed her love of writing and history into engaging works of fiction. One of the things she enjoys most about writing historical romance is the in-depth research required to provide the reader with an authentic experience.

Reviews

[Mimi Barbour · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in the tapestry of ongoing conflict and politics in the year 1087, this sensual, bittersweet love story between Agneta and Sir Caedmon Woolgar is beautifully written.

Neither would declare their love, even after being married and sharing uncontrollable passion, in fear that it wasn’t reciprocated. He felt she’d never forgive the part he’d played in the destruction of her home and her parent’s death, and so kept his true feelings to himself. Attracted from the day she’d met him, Agneta fought her love saying nothing, believing he had no deep feelings for her anyway.

Caedmon, along with his mother and a party of others fled from the growing hostilities in their area. With his mother’s help, he arranged for Agneta and him to be wed and they all left together for his birth home in Normandie. Because he was a Saxon and had deeply buried dislikes for the Normans, he found living there uncomfortable. Pulled apart by his dislike of the people, nevertheless his love for the house and lands inherited from the Saxon who he believed to be his father did make him happy.

Until he found out the truth. That he’d been living a lie his whole life. Conflicted, full of fury at life’s injustice, he left his home and fled to join the crusades where he found himself fighting alongside the Norman’s who he’d always held in such distain. To understand the loyalties involved—those that drove the actions of our hero—it’s imperative to accept how deeply ingrained was a man’s heritage.

The research in this book shone through every page. Many facts about the rivalries, battles and governing royalty were woven into the story...so if you like history, you'll love A Man of Value.

This is a story of forgiveness, of pride in oneself and one’s relations and is truly a unique and wonderful story

[Susan Ashcraft · Rating 5 out of 5]

Late 11th century Europe is the backdrop for this beautiful, well told historic romance. Filled with interesting characters, a solid plot and colorful backgrounds this story reeled me in and kept me turning pages til the end.

The story follows proud, handsome warrior Caedmon Woolgar, and Agneta Kirkthwaite, a young woman filled with hatred by the destruction of her home and family. Caedmon and Agneta marry but are unable to share their burgeoning feelings of love with each other. When Caedmon discovers the truth of his heritage, and unknowing of his wife's love, he joins the First Crusade.

"I'm very homesick, and can barely recall the reasons I left England. I ache for my beautiful Agneta."

Follow Caedmon's and Agneta's journeys to discover if their futures lie together.

This is a very well written, well thought out and plotted story. It is Book 2 of the Montbryce Legacy but is a great stand alone book. I will definitely be looking for the next book in the series (as well as the 1st) I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good story.

(I received a copy of this book through the First Read Program here at GoodReads and my review was unsolicited.)

A Man of Value

[Lori D · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading the first two books in this series, I did not think it could get better. But Redemption proved me wrong. This story pulls you into a time in history that was often brutal and makes you feel the emotions of the hero and heroine. What happens when you find out your life is not what you have always thought? Cademon Woolgar, had always believed his father was a Saxon martyr of the Battle of Hastings. But as he discovers he is the bastard son of a Norman earl, Ram de Montbryce, his mind does not want to process, so he joins the First Crusade. The truth almost destroys his marriage to Agneta Kirkthwaite and he takes an emotional journey to find himself. Agneta has her own challenges to deal with finding that Caedmon had participated unknowingly with the deaths of her family. This is a journey of two people who have so many pent up emotions that threaten to destroy them. Can love overcome these strong feelings and bring the two together? A very intriguing and in depth tale that will keep you turning the pages. In typical Anna Markland style, you are thrown into another time and become invested in the characters. This can be read as a standalone although it is part of a series. But don't miss the first two stories in this wonderful collection of The Montbryce Legacy!

[Ruth · Rating 1 out of 5]

(16) This was a kindle freebie. I know this is going to sound patronising but the best I can say for it - is that an effort was made. I read it very quickly - it is after all only about 187 pages. I can honestly say that this is the first time I have read a book where an action packed crusade is really only a few pages long. There is no meaningful baddie and the characters are just that. Stilted old-worldly dialogue is painful. But the bones of the story are ok and a certain amount of research has been done. The author makes no pretence of believing in love at first sight and this is evident. Unfortunately, not one I can recommend to the normal crew. ’He moved quickly to place his hands on her shoulders, and drew her to his body. “I don’t ask for your love. Only that you agree to spend your life with me. I need you. Please say you’ll fill my need. I want no other—only you. Say you’ll become my wife. You need me.” . See what I mean?

[SHERRY · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loving this series

I really like series books. This one had many twists and turns and it was so well thought out and the vivid descriptions of action and characters made it so good, I read it in one evening. I could not put it down.

[Lynn · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Man of Value: the Montbryce Legacy (Book 2) by Anna Markland ISBN 978-0987867360

Somehow this found its way onto my Kindle and since it was inexpensive and kind of on a subject matter that I like (historic Scotland/ Northern England) I figured why not start the book and see if I like it. You see when cheap eBooks cross my path I do not feel compelled to finish the book because life is too short to read unimpressive books.

But I was pleasantly pleased. Agneta has been raised as a healer in a nunnery since the killing of her family by border raiders. She is contemplating taking her vows and becoming a nun, but feels no real calling to do so -- she just doesn't have any other option. One day she and some others from her nunnery go to a battle field and she finds a horse acting funny, as if protecting someone, so they go over to find a wounded man who has amnesia. Of course he is incredibly attractive and very well spoken. He has ghastly wounds and wonders if he will keep his leg, but under her care he is alive and well and walking. He ultimately remembers who he is and goes home to family and friends, but is melancholy because while women are throwing themselves at his feet as the conquering hero -- he only remembers his fine healer.

Caedmon Woolgar is dancing a fine line in politics. Son of a hero on the wrong side of a battle years ago he has been living out of country with his mother and some other ex-patriots. He has property in Wales that a neighbor is caring for -- a neighbor who knew his mother but he has never met. He is a leader in the ex-pat group and when there is a succession of King he and some friends go as representatives to figure out where they stand.

As things turn out -- the group decides they need to leave the area and as they pass by the nunnery, they stop and Caedmon speaks to Agneta. Caedmon's mother makes arrangements with the Mother Superior and voila ... the two are married and the nunnery gets funds for a new out-building. They continue on to Wales and the Woolgar Estate. There they discover that the neighbor has been a lot closer to the mother than originally thought and Caedmon has a huge identity crisis and runs away to join the crusades. This point got a little bit tiresome many angst ridden thoughts ... but overall it was a great look into the time period and people's conception of identity.

So by the end, everyone returns happy, healthy and whole -- Agneta is a lot more forgiving than I think I would be ... but she WAS raised by nuns! It is a good story and very reasonably priced as an eBook. I am glad I found it and would look for others by this author when time allows.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Worthy of much more than just 5 stars!!!!
Redemption is the third anniversary edition by this author of the Montbryce Legacy stories.

I am so glad to have purchased this Anniversary Edition. It truly reminds me of why I fell in love with Anna Markland's stories. Her stories are filled with pages and pages of enthralling works of art that just capture your attention and want to make you stay witnessing the outcome of the story she has weaved. Redemption flows very well.

Caedmon and Agneta are a very worthy heroic couple. The two of them will grasp at your heart and tug, as their story is told. Caedmon was the son of a Saxon martyr from the Battle of Hastings, until his world collides and questions all he knows.

Agneta lost her entire family right before her eyes. She has suffered tremendously and has been making do as best as she can. Her path will cross with Caedmon to discover horrors that she will have to overcome.

These two discover things from their pasts that will make for a difficult Journey alongside a love that is deeply blooming. This Love will be severely tested along with once united Family bonds that can possibly be severed or new ones formed. You will also witness the very touching bond of friendship between Caedmon and Leofric. Caedmon seeks Redemption in this tale, but as I discovered I believe several of the characters seek Redemption and forgiveness as well.

Keep with the story for it is very complex but very rewarding in its entirety. We revisit with characters of the Montbryce family - Ram, Antoine, and Hugh and also with Rhodri.

I just loved the story. I'm sure you will love it as well. I love the fact that she has made anniversary editions for the series for they will remain in my personal library for years to come. What a rewarding read!

[Angel Mochulla · Rating 4 out of 5]

alrighty, back to this series again... i actually loved this novel, it was really cute and i fell in love with the main male character... untillll!!!!! then ram the father first calls the woman he CHEATED! on his wife with "oh your still beautiful" well screw you buddy! then" oh its ok my wife knows im with you". wow!! but what made it worse was when he was telling his (bastard) son how it happened or what happened. he was like oh out of everything horrible i remember it was the one beautiful moment out of all of it! well screw you buddy, you should only be saying that about your wife... i understand he got a son out of it, wow great thaats freaking fantastic but!!! you also could have lost the love of your life!!!! i honestly would have been fine if he was like it is something i regret, a regret that im glad happened now but a regret all the same but no!!!! he liked it! why didnt he just say how good the sex was and how he would be willing to do it again? basically to me by him saying that it was beautiful, he doesnt regret it at all, he doesnt feel bad about it, and i bet if the mother, ashla or whatever were to say hey if you do me right now i will get pregnant right away and give you another son, he would do it!!!! I HATE HIM SO MUCH I ACTUALLY GET MAD AT MY BOYFRIEND FOR JUST BEING THE SEX OF A MAN!

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This storyline has so much angst, adversity, triumph and love. Caedmon was raised to be a proud, loyal Saxon, but he struggles to find his way in a land that is not his own. That is how he finds himself witnessing the slaughter of a Saxon family, which causes even more confusion. He keeps fighting with those who perpetrated the crime, until he almost dies. When he wakes from the injuries he suffered, he finds the most enchanting woman. Unfortunately for him, she is the sole survivor of the massacre he regrets, Agneta. She was taken in by the nuns when she was found alone and desolate at her home. He wants to take her with him when she leaves, but she hates him for the part he played in her family's demise. A year later he is fleeing the country he was raised in, and he arranges for them to marry. It's not exactly a happy marriage, there is attraction, but no forgiveness. Then he gets the shock of his life, and runs away to fight the Holy War. He finds family, and she discovers love and forgiveness. This fascinating story is part of a great series that I have enjoyed reading.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.

[Cassia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the Montbryce saga since the beginning, but my disordered attitude as a reader made me miss book #2, the story of Caedmon. This is the best in the series, so far. The plot, the angst I expect in medieval romance, the pride and hatred that is the limitation and the most dangerous cause of destruction for characters are perfectly depicted. Caedmon hates Normans and his (Norman) natural father. He despises his mother for having had an affaire with the Norman Montbryce and despises himself for being a bastard son.

The tale is fast and passionate in the first part, about the love story between Caedmon and the sweet Agneta, but the best part is the second, when Caedmon decides to escape to Crusade to atone his failures in life. The writer offers her best skills here. The mix of diary and novel is genial and dramatic.

I can't wait to read the other FitzRam novels, hoping they can parallel the quality, the passion, the care for setting, and the deep understanding of human feelings that I found in this story.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Man of Value by Anna Markland was my favorite of Anna Markland's books so far. I enjoyed this book, from beginning to end, and even in the middle when Caedmon was lost and not acting himself. It was a wonderful story and I'm proud of Ram and his acceptance of a son he didn't even know existed, but I'm especially proud of Maybelle, her forgiveness and her ability to love and accept into her family that which most women of the day would have shunned. Her acceptance went a long way to gaining her children's acceptance of their half-brother.

Needless to say, I loved this book! :-)

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first generation of Montbryce in England, Rambaud Montbryce and his wife Mabelle are passing through their prime. Their sons are coming into their maturity in this book, Robert in France, and Baudoin in England. A single indiscretion during a break in the relationship between Ram and Mabelle before they were betrothed, resulted in a son about which Ram knew nothing. This book follows the story of this unknown branch of the Montbryce family.
Heartbreaking at times, sometimes tenderly loving, horrific battles, terrifying journeys all the way to the holy lands. All these are descriptions of events in book 3 of the Montbyrce series which elicits a full range of emotions in the reader as the story unfolds. Great storylines, fully drawn characters and carefully thought out scenes make this book a delight to read. Not to be missed if you enjoy some of the other books in this series.

[Jayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Caedmon is the illegitimate son of Ram de Montbryce. I have come across a few reviews that hate this book simply because Ram slept with another woman (one he did not rape; it was mutual) and he had not gotten to know MaBelle.

REMEMBER THESE BOOKS TAKE PLACE IN A TIME WHEN THIS WAS ACCEPTABLE!!! I think some readers forget that.

Anyway, Caedmon has been brought up to believe he was the legitimate son of his mother's husband. It nearly devastates him when he finds out this is not so. A good portion, shown in Caedmon's journal, is his own journey of accepting who he is even though his father, Ram and MaBelle and their children have accepted him. Joining the People's Crusade in order to both punish himself, and to find out if any bit of him left is worthwhile.

Ram proves that Caedmon is worth living, worth Agneta, and is a valued member of the Montbryce family.

[Lily · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in The Montbryce Legacy series. I have to say I liked it a little bit more than the first one, Conquering passion. Again, it was steeped in the historical events of the time period and could be a history lesson in and of itself. Lots of political intrigue and brutality throughout. I liked Caedmon and found him an appealing character. He was very well developed and complex and I felt for what he was going through. The passion between him and Agneta was hot and steamy and the emotional component between them felt very real. There were lots of twists and turns in the plot that kept me riveted to the tale. My only complaint was the lack of humor or lightness to compensate for all the war and oppression. It does get depressing at times, but I did like the upbeat ending and am looking forward to the next in the series.

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Author does a great job of intermingling the child born of both worlds. Caedmon learns the hard way to accept his lineage, his wife is very patient with him. Love can overcome, if you let it. Caedmon takes the long, dangerous and adventurous route "home" but eventually finds a family and love waiting with open arms. Ram, his father is one of my favorite characters in this series and I knew this would eventually come full circle. I still do not like Ascha (Caedmon's mother) but Ram's wife, Mabelle is much more forgiving than I. :)

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fabulous book in this series! Caedmon, the hero experiences so very much and covers thousands of miles before he finds his HEA and his true family. Ms. Markland has a wonderful gift of creating characters and scenarios that are realistic, tangible and relatable and it is difficult to finish her stories and say adieu to the stories. I'm dying to read more of these characters and their world.

[Barbara Cuyler]

I thoroughly enjoyed this third book in the series. The plot kept a good pace and the characters were relatable and likeable. You should definitely read the first book in the series before reading this one. A lot of the things that happened in Book 1 are referred to (but not in great detail) in Redemption and have major impacts on the characters and plot in this book. I'm planning on reading the next book in this series.

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third installment of the Montbryce family legacy, and is just as exciting as the first two. Romance, action, adventure, sorrow and joy are all weaved into this gripping story. Very good read.

[Ann L · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this the first time round and I read this version, I didn't think it could get any better, duh, silly me, this is just as fantastic, grab a copy, what are you waiting for.

I received a copy and I am voluntarily leaving my own honest opinion

[Monika · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is another very emotional and engaging book set against the background of a brutal time in history. The story flows well with characters who have to overcome their horrible past and learn to embrace a future together. A well-written book.

[C. Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Montbryce Love

This book was as good as the others in the Montbryce vein. If I were a new reader I would get the other part of the series and hunker in. It is not necessary, but it will enhance the experience.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

This reminds me why I love Anna Markland books. Her stories pull you into history and make you want to read up on that time period. This story is one of secrets that come to light and how when one man can not deal with it causes hurt to the woman who loves him.

[Nicole · Rating 1 out of 5]

There are too many books, and too little time for me to finish this book. Too much "tell", not enough "show".

[Kathy Pate · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Montbryce

Love this sequel! The stories drag you back to an era of chivalry and courage! HEA guaranteed in every book!

[Scott Sillars · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly enjoyable

I enjoyed this story very much indeed
It is very rich in vivid history
However just as important is the lessons in humility and forgiveness

[Constance Long · Rating 3 out of 5]

Like Reliving history!

Wonderful to read. Almost as if you are there with the characters. Story lines are so close to modern themes.

[Melissa Cannito · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet story of love and forgiveness.

[Tracyk · Rating 2 out of 5]

mehh twas alright.

[❆ Crystal ❆ · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great story. I would recommend this book.