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Age of Conquest #2
Fearless
THE WULFRITHS. IT ALL BEGAN WITH A WOMAN.
A battle. A crown. The conqueror. The conquered. Medieval England—forever changed by the Battle of Hastings. And the rise of the formidable Wulfriths.
A CAPTIVE NORMAN
Sir Guarin D’Argent knew the danger of allowing a woman to turn him from his purpose, and yet he answered her cry across a bloody battlefield. Now he finds himself the lady’s captive among vengeful Saxons, weeks becoming months while his liege, Duke William of Normandy, subdues his new English subjects. Biding his time, Guarin plots an escape dependent on captivating his captor, a formidable quest with one more a warrior than a lady. But when his compassion is roused by the suffering of her people under Norman rule, the question of escape is jeopardized by the answer to who, exactly, is captivated—and in a conquered country, what hope there is for enemies beyond a kiss.
A DEFIANT SAXON
Her husband and young son slain by invaders, Lady Hawisa lives only for protecting her people. And revenge. While outwardly bending the knee to the usurper, she amasses rebels to send the conquerors back across the sea, along with the silver-haired warrior she never intended to take captive. Now that Guarin D’Argent has cause to wreak vengeance of his own and knows his captor is a Wulfrith, she dare not release him—just as she dare not succumb to his efforts to turn her from her purpose. But all changes when she is betrayed by one of her own. Will the struggle between the English resistance and the Normans find the two on opposite sides of the battlefield? Or might the Lord have other plans for them?
From a fateful encounter on the battlefield of Hastings, to a rebel camp deep in the wood, to the threshold of the Harrying of the North, Sir Guarin and Lady Hawisa’s tale unfolds in the second book in the AGE OF CONQUEST series that reveals the origins of the Wulfriths of the bestselling AGE OF FAITH series. Watch for NAMELESS: Book Three releasing Autumn 2019.
A battle. A crown. The conqueror. The conquered. Medieval England—forever changed by the Battle of Hastings. And the rise of the formidable Wulfriths.
A CAPTIVE NORMAN
Sir Guarin D’Argent knew the danger of allowing a woman to turn him from his purpose, and yet he answered her cry across a bloody battlefield. Now he finds himself the lady’s captive among vengeful Saxons, weeks becoming months while his liege, Duke William of Normandy, subdues his new English subjects. Biding his time, Guarin plots an escape dependent on captivating his captor, a formidable quest with one more a warrior than a lady. But when his compassion is roused by the suffering of her people under Norman rule, the question of escape is jeopardized by the answer to who, exactly, is captivated—and in a conquered country, what hope there is for enemies beyond a kiss.
A DEFIANT SAXON
Her husband and young son slain by invaders, Lady Hawisa lives only for protecting her people. And revenge. While outwardly bending the knee to the usurper, she amasses rebels to send the conquerors back across the sea, along with the silver-haired warrior she never intended to take captive. Now that Guarin D’Argent has cause to wreak vengeance of his own and knows his captor is a Wulfrith, she dare not release him—just as she dare not succumb to his efforts to turn her from her purpose. But all changes when she is betrayed by one of her own. Will the struggle between the English resistance and the Normans find the two on opposite sides of the battlefield? Or might the Lord have other plans for them?
From a fateful encounter on the battlefield of Hastings, to a rebel camp deep in the wood, to the threshold of the Harrying of the North, Sir Guarin and Lady Hawisa’s tale unfolds in the second book in the AGE OF CONQUEST series that reveals the origins of the Wulfriths of the bestselling AGE OF FAITH series. Watch for NAMELESS: Book Three releasing Autumn 2019.
464 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2019
174 people are currently reading
231 people want to read
About the author
Tamara Leigh
70 books967 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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
October 3, 2021
HELLO. My name is Anne is my toxic trait is leaving my finished books on my currently-reading shelf FOREVER because I really think I'm gonna get to writing the review "soon".
I read this back in February when I was completely, fully immersed in Tamara Leigh's amazing medieval world. The first book in the series, Merciless, left me aching for more, and I immediately plunged into Fearless as soon as I was finished.
Fearless was easier to read than its predecessor because I was already in the mood, already lost in the world, already accustomed to the ole language, and also because this book overlaps greatly with the events of the previous one. I think the overlap goes on until about the 60% mark, but I didn't mind at all, because although it's the "same" events, it's told from a completely different perspective and there's a lot that happens in-between that we didn't see in Merciless.
The story focuses on Sir Guarin d'Argent, Cyr's older brother believed to be dead. Guarin is barely alive, held as a prisoner in a rebel camp, tortured to the limits of what no one could endure everyday. The rebel leader is of course none other than Isa, Aefled's mistress in the previous book.
Funny how she doesn't just execute the prisoner already, right? He's a Norman for crying out loud, dangerous and wolfish, and definitely not planning his escape. And definitely not attracted to his captor, that would be the height of nonsensical stupidity. Just like Lady Isa is most definitely not interested in him either, despite purposefully keeping him alive and dropping hints right left and center for his brothers to find him.
This was undoubtedly a 10/10 romance for me. The chemistry was perfect, their relationship developed to perfection, the I-should-hate-you-but-I-really-just-can't was very well-balanced, and the rest of the book was incredibly fascinating and just plain captivating.
My one small complaint would be that the last quarter or so dragged on just a little too long, and a plethora of new characters were introduced that I didn't have time for because I just NEEDED MY ROMANTIC RESOLUTION. I NEEDED IT ASAP. I'm sure William the Conqueror is a fascinating historical figure, but when Isa and Guarin basically have to fight each other after fighting against their feelings for the whole book, I DON'T CARE. I WANT THEM TOGETHER, I WANT THEM HAPPY, AND I WANT IT NOW. :D
Aside from that minor detail, this was an excellent novel, I was so obsessed with it that I could think of nothing else, and that usually means it's a 5 star read for me!
I read this back in February when I was completely, fully immersed in Tamara Leigh's amazing medieval world. The first book in the series, Merciless, left me aching for more, and I immediately plunged into Fearless as soon as I was finished.
Fearless was easier to read than its predecessor because I was already in the mood, already lost in the world, already accustomed to the ole language, and also because this book overlaps greatly with the events of the previous one. I think the overlap goes on until about the 60% mark, but I didn't mind at all, because although it's the "same" events, it's told from a completely different perspective and there's a lot that happens in-between that we didn't see in Merciless.
The story focuses on Sir Guarin d'Argent, Cyr's older brother believed to be dead. Guarin is barely alive, held as a prisoner in a rebel camp, tortured to the limits of what no one could endure everyday. The rebel leader is of course none other than Isa, Aefled's mistress in the previous book.
Funny how she doesn't just execute the prisoner already, right? He's a Norman for crying out loud, dangerous and wolfish, and definitely not planning his escape. And definitely not attracted to his captor, that would be the height of nonsensical stupidity. Just like Lady Isa is most definitely not interested in him either, despite purposefully keeping him alive and dropping hints right left and center for his brothers to find him.
This was undoubtedly a 10/10 romance for me. The chemistry was perfect, their relationship developed to perfection, the I-should-hate-you-but-I-really-just-can't was very well-balanced, and the rest of the book was incredibly fascinating and just plain captivating.
My one small complaint would be that the last quarter or so dragged on just a little too long, and a plethora of new characters were introduced that I didn't have time for because I just NEEDED MY ROMANTIC RESOLUTION. I NEEDED IT ASAP. I'm sure William the Conqueror is a fascinating historical figure, but when Isa and Guarin basically have to fight each other after fighting against their feelings for the whole book, I DON'T CARE. I WANT THEM TOGETHER, I WANT THEM HAPPY, AND I WANT IT NOW. :D
Aside from that minor detail, this was an excellent novel, I was so obsessed with it that I could think of nothing else, and that usually means it's a 5 star read for me!
November 8, 2019
Le sigh. How *does she do it? Tamara LEigh is a master at medieval romance. I love the romance, yes--but I also love a peek into what history and that era might have looked liked.
March 12, 2021
*Warnings*
#1 This is a long review, so pull up a chair and grab a bowl of popcorn. You'll be here awhile. #2 When I read a review, I want substantial information. So I will not skimp on the details. Which will mean some spoilers, so watch out. #3 The review you are reading are part of an upcoming mini review post on my blog—however, my idea of “mini” greatly differs from Webster’s definition.
Y’all. Just...y’all. If you happened to read my review of Merciless, then you know how I got into this series and Tamara Leigh and just how much I love this book!
But I’m going to assume you haven’t and gush about Fearless anyway!
So, yes, the first chapter or two is hard to follow because of how “backward” Leigh’s writing is. Once you grow accustomed to it—because, trust me, you will—the period, the setting, and the characters come to life around you. Hopefully you had sense enough to read the first book in the Age of Conquest series, so it won’t take you two seconds to catch on to what’s going on. Likely, you’ll already be in love with the characters and know the gist of how it ends.
I know I did.
I already knew I would love Isa and Gaurin more than Cyr and Aethfled (no offense, you two; y’all are fantastic in your own ways) and that I would wholeheartedly enjoy reading the events of Merciless from Isa’s POV. I mean, I did have my reservations—as I usually do when reading a book that directly overlaps one I’ve already read—but they were quickly dispelled by how smoothly this book moves along.
The main things I’ve noticed that Tamara Leigh has mastered is pacing. Yes, her prose is beautiful and balanced, so colorful and authentic. Yes, her stories are exciting, intense, suspenseful, and dramatic. Yes, she is a consummate medieval writer who knows her stuff. But seriously, y’all. Her pacing is perfection. Everything goes by so fast, and yet the story is languid and lingering. I know that doesn’t make sense, but I’m serious. She can transcend time with her writing! It’s phenomenal!
The only way I can think to define it is that when I’m in the moment, I’m in it—every word is a passing second, every paragraph a minute. But when I step back, I see events and people flying by. Or maybe it’s the other way around! *shrugs* All I know is that it doesn’t get much better than this!
Apart from that, my all-time favorite part of Fearless was quite simply the characters. In Merciless, my favorite part was just the plot and concept in general—getting to know the characters, the time, the place, and watching an empire sprout up before my eyes. In Nameless (which I’ll gush about in my March reviews next month), it’s the story—every exchange between Em and Dougray, every battle between good and evil, every family reunion.
But with Fearless, it’s just Isa and Gaurin.
So, yeah, there wasn’t much plot until, like, the last several chapters. The part that overlapped with Merciless was like one long scene playing out in the midst of all the drama that ensued between Cyr and Aethfled in the first book. To be honest, I really, really missed those intense moments with Aethfled and Isa. I’d hoped to see more of the emotion and conflict within Isa that triggered all those interactions that we saw in Merciless—I wanted Isa’s side of the story, which I only got a taste of.
That’s basically the only reason why Fearless doesn’t get a full five stars. (I’d say it’s closer to four and a half.)
As a character-driven everything, I don’t mind the lack of excessive plot. I love more than anything else to be with the characters (and that goes for my own novels), so it didn’t bother me too much, because I do so love Isa and Gaurin. I was just wanting more conflict with Isa, I guess, and more interaction between her and Aethfled.
I will say this, however. Leigh did a fantabulous job balancing the two books. All of my reservations concerning the overlap were dispelled (wait, I already said that, didn’t I? Talk about overlap). Even though I feared being bored by the recounting of all that had transpired between Senlac and the events at Wulfen, I wasn’t! I got glimpses of things I hadn’t seen before and a fresh perspective on those I had.
So, in the end, although I was lacking a few things, Isa and Gaurin’s overall awesomeness more than made up for it! Oh, and can I just say that William is amazing? I mean, I know he’s supposed to be, like, the bad guy in all of this (which is really cool, considering Leigh manages to balance a force of conflict like William with the more immediate threats like Jaxon and Campagnon), but he is HILARIOUS! I love his interactions with the D’Argents and Wulfriths and all—and, y’all, I’m not a feminist by any definition of the word, but what he did with Isa and Gaurin was GOLD! (You’ll know it when you read it!) Later on, William just becomes more and more prominent and entertaining to read. I love the authority Leigh exercises in writing him, making him as much her character as the fictional Wulfriths and D’Argents are—more a man and less a historical figure!
(And I know these things are supposed to be “mini,” but my definition of mini is less than 2k, so…)
Long story short, you will be seeing a lot more reviews of Tamara Leigh’s work in the future. Trust me. (Also, just gonna say, I really admire this lady. She’s an indie author who left the secular fiction and tradition publishing behind to write for God. Respect.)
#1 This is a long review, so pull up a chair and grab a bowl of popcorn. You'll be here awhile. #2 When I read a review, I want substantial information. So I will not skimp on the details. Which will mean some spoilers, so watch out. #3 The review you are reading are part of an upcoming mini review post on my blog—however, my idea of “mini” greatly differs from Webster’s definition.
Y’all. Just...y’all. If you happened to read my review of Merciless, then you know how I got into this series and Tamara Leigh and just how much I love this book!
But I’m going to assume you haven’t and gush about Fearless anyway!
So, yes, the first chapter or two is hard to follow because of how “backward” Leigh’s writing is. Once you grow accustomed to it—because, trust me, you will—the period, the setting, and the characters come to life around you. Hopefully you had sense enough to read the first book in the Age of Conquest series, so it won’t take you two seconds to catch on to what’s going on. Likely, you’ll already be in love with the characters and know the gist of how it ends.
I know I did.
I already knew I would love Isa and Gaurin more than Cyr and Aethfled (no offense, you two; y’all are fantastic in your own ways) and that I would wholeheartedly enjoy reading the events of Merciless from Isa’s POV. I mean, I did have my reservations—as I usually do when reading a book that directly overlaps one I’ve already read—but they were quickly dispelled by how smoothly this book moves along.
The main things I’ve noticed that Tamara Leigh has mastered is pacing. Yes, her prose is beautiful and balanced, so colorful and authentic. Yes, her stories are exciting, intense, suspenseful, and dramatic. Yes, she is a consummate medieval writer who knows her stuff. But seriously, y’all. Her pacing is perfection. Everything goes by so fast, and yet the story is languid and lingering. I know that doesn’t make sense, but I’m serious. She can transcend time with her writing! It’s phenomenal!
The only way I can think to define it is that when I’m in the moment, I’m in it—every word is a passing second, every paragraph a minute. But when I step back, I see events and people flying by. Or maybe it’s the other way around! *shrugs* All I know is that it doesn’t get much better than this!
Apart from that, my all-time favorite part of Fearless was quite simply the characters. In Merciless, my favorite part was just the plot and concept in general—getting to know the characters, the time, the place, and watching an empire sprout up before my eyes. In Nameless (which I’ll gush about in my March reviews next month), it’s the story—every exchange between Em and Dougray, every battle between good and evil, every family reunion.
But with Fearless, it’s just Isa and Gaurin.
So, yeah, there wasn’t much plot until, like, the last several chapters. The part that overlapped with Merciless was like one long scene playing out in the midst of all the drama that ensued between Cyr and Aethfled in the first book. To be honest, I really, really missed those intense moments with Aethfled and Isa. I’d hoped to see more of the emotion and conflict within Isa that triggered all those interactions that we saw in Merciless—I wanted Isa’s side of the story, which I only got a taste of.
That’s basically the only reason why Fearless doesn’t get a full five stars. (I’d say it’s closer to four and a half.)
As a character-driven everything, I don’t mind the lack of excessive plot. I love more than anything else to be with the characters (and that goes for my own novels), so it didn’t bother me too much, because I do so love Isa and Gaurin. I was just wanting more conflict with Isa, I guess, and more interaction between her and Aethfled.
I will say this, however. Leigh did a fantabulous job balancing the two books. All of my reservations concerning the overlap were dispelled (wait, I already said that, didn’t I? Talk about overlap). Even though I feared being bored by the recounting of all that had transpired between Senlac and the events at Wulfen, I wasn’t! I got glimpses of things I hadn’t seen before and a fresh perspective on those I had.
So, in the end, although I was lacking a few things, Isa and Gaurin’s overall awesomeness more than made up for it! Oh, and can I just say that William is amazing? I mean, I know he’s supposed to be, like, the bad guy in all of this (which is really cool, considering Leigh manages to balance a force of conflict like William with the more immediate threats like Jaxon and Campagnon), but he is HILARIOUS! I love his interactions with the D’Argents and Wulfriths and all—and, y’all, I’m not a feminist by any definition of the word, but what he did with Isa and Gaurin was GOLD! (You’ll know it when you read it!) Later on, William just becomes more and more prominent and entertaining to read. I love the authority Leigh exercises in writing him, making him as much her character as the fictional Wulfriths and D’Argents are—more a man and less a historical figure!
(And I know these things are supposed to be “mini,” but my definition of mini is less than 2k, so…)
Long story short, you will be seeing a lot more reviews of Tamara Leigh’s work in the future. Trust me. (Also, just gonna say, I really admire this lady. She’s an indie author who left the secular fiction and tradition publishing behind to write for God. Respect.)
May 5, 2019
Tamara Leigh is an incomparable. She is an author who is in a league of her own. No one writes Medieval fiction with such historical marination and language as she. It was interesting to see events the reader is already familiar with from a different POV but I admit my favorite parts of the book came in the last 40% where new story and new scenes came. And the last 10%...well, my heart sung.
May 5, 2019
THERE NEEDS TO BE MORE STARS IN THIS RATING!!!
I have been waiting on pins and needles, to read this book. I just knew it would be fantastic and I wasn’t wrong!
Just like in the other stories Tamara Leigh has written, I have been spell-bound from the first page!
Her stories have larger than life heroes and heroines, whom you will come to love and cherish. These characters may at first seem flawed, but through their struggles and the trials they have, they develop into persons of honor and integrity.
In this story, the author weaves us back into past scenes from the first book in the series. However, it is viewed from a different angle. I enjoyed this because it was like revisiting the previous book and those characters, which was helpful to get the other side of the story.
I am fascinated with learning more about this family of heroes, and with the way Tamara Leigh writes, we come to know them each with all their struggles and victories.
I’m also extremely impressed with Tamar Leigh and all she packs into her stories. I truly felt I was getting a beautiful history lesson without it being boring.
Tamara Leigh is a skilled storyteller. Each of her books is an invitation to travel back in time to an era we can only imagine. She brings the medieval world, to life.
From the pageantry of the customs to the action of the fighting, as well as the language of the time, there is nothing left amiss.
This tale was about the oldest D’Argent. Guarin’s story is one of hardship, struggles, yet, through it all, he has integrity and honor. Lady Hawisa, is the one who holds him captive physically, but does she hold him emotionally also? They are both trying to right the wrongs they feel has been done to their own people. Yet, will it only end on the battlefield?
I guess you’ll have to read the book to see how it all unfolds!
If you don’t pick this book up and read it, then you’ll never know the true origin of the Wulfriths and how “It all began with a woman.”
Now I’m waiting to read the next book in this wonderful series. NAMELESS: Book Three releasing later this year.
I highly recommend this and ALL of Tamara Leigh’s books. Her storytelling will captivate you so much, you will not want to miss one of her books!
I have been waiting on pins and needles, to read this book. I just knew it would be fantastic and I wasn’t wrong!
Just like in the other stories Tamara Leigh has written, I have been spell-bound from the first page!
Her stories have larger than life heroes and heroines, whom you will come to love and cherish. These characters may at first seem flawed, but through their struggles and the trials they have, they develop into persons of honor and integrity.
In this story, the author weaves us back into past scenes from the first book in the series. However, it is viewed from a different angle. I enjoyed this because it was like revisiting the previous book and those characters, which was helpful to get the other side of the story.
I am fascinated with learning more about this family of heroes, and with the way Tamara Leigh writes, we come to know them each with all their struggles and victories.
I’m also extremely impressed with Tamar Leigh and all she packs into her stories. I truly felt I was getting a beautiful history lesson without it being boring.
Tamara Leigh is a skilled storyteller. Each of her books is an invitation to travel back in time to an era we can only imagine. She brings the medieval world, to life.
From the pageantry of the customs to the action of the fighting, as well as the language of the time, there is nothing left amiss.
This tale was about the oldest D’Argent. Guarin’s story is one of hardship, struggles, yet, through it all, he has integrity and honor. Lady Hawisa, is the one who holds him captive physically, but does she hold him emotionally also? They are both trying to right the wrongs they feel has been done to their own people. Yet, will it only end on the battlefield?
I guess you’ll have to read the book to see how it all unfolds!
If you don’t pick this book up and read it, then you’ll never know the true origin of the Wulfriths and how “It all began with a woman.”
Now I’m waiting to read the next book in this wonderful series. NAMELESS: Book Three releasing later this year.
I highly recommend this and ALL of Tamara Leigh’s books. Her storytelling will captivate you so much, you will not want to miss one of her books!
April 27, 2019
My medieval-loving heart is sated once more. For the nonce. Because one can’t really finish reading this book without being curious—nay, eager—for the next story in the series, however satisfying this one may have been.
What I love most about Tamara Leigh’s medieval novels is that they’re neither medieval-lite nor pseudo-medieval. Rather than being a story placed into a medieval setting, it is the medieval setting that has birthed this story—more specifically, the Battle of Hastings and the years of unrest that follow. Not only does she plumb the depths of that unrest in this novel, but in Hawisa and Gaurin’s story, she creates a nearly-impossible tangle of conflicting loyalties, sympathies, and desires that thrilled me to the fingertips. Enemies-to-lover is a favourite trope of mine, and this is about as good as it gets!
In Guarin, Tamara Leigh has created a hero whose physical and mental strength captivates even as his situation threatens to strip him of both. She also excels at creating heroines who are strong and intelligent, yet who also retain authentic femininity. I loved the conversation between Hawisa and Sir Maël towards the end of the novel, when he puzzles over two of his cousins falling prey to the charms of Saxon women:
Sir Maël: “What is it about the women of England that so ensnares, especially with your warrior’s ways that ought not appeal in the absence of soft and sweet?”
Hawisa: “Perhaps the blood of long gone shield maidens yet courses our veins—the determined, hard, and fierce appearing when it is not enough for our men to defend family, home, and country. . . . But you are wrong to believe there is no soft and sweet when armor and weapons are shed, Sir Maël. For the right man.”
See what I mean? And it’s not just what is said, but the WAY it is said—something that is true of so much of this novel.
And I mustn’t forget the growing regard between Guarin and Hawisa and the circumstances under which it flourishes. For many authors, a situation where one character is held in the captivity of another would rely on physical attraction to carry the romantic storyline, but Tamara Leigh makes it so much richer and more complex than that. And thus, so much more satisfying.
In closing, it’s worth mentioning that the nature of this series means that the stories overlap. The author notes at the beginning of the book that there will be some repetition of scenes that appear in previous books, and there was even a pivotal scene from an earlier novel, Lady of Conquest, as well. These scenes are all presented from a different perspective than in previous books, and I loved getting the different angles and even filling in some blanks that were previously unknown. But most of all, I LOVED having the huge blank that was Guarin and Hawisa’s story filled in. Now if only I didn’t have to wait so long for Dougray’s story. It promises to be another great one!
What I love most about Tamara Leigh’s medieval novels is that they’re neither medieval-lite nor pseudo-medieval. Rather than being a story placed into a medieval setting, it is the medieval setting that has birthed this story—more specifically, the Battle of Hastings and the years of unrest that follow. Not only does she plumb the depths of that unrest in this novel, but in Hawisa and Gaurin’s story, she creates a nearly-impossible tangle of conflicting loyalties, sympathies, and desires that thrilled me to the fingertips. Enemies-to-lover is a favourite trope of mine, and this is about as good as it gets!
In Guarin, Tamara Leigh has created a hero whose physical and mental strength captivates even as his situation threatens to strip him of both. She also excels at creating heroines who are strong and intelligent, yet who also retain authentic femininity. I loved the conversation between Hawisa and Sir Maël towards the end of the novel, when he puzzles over two of his cousins falling prey to the charms of Saxon women:
Sir Maël: “What is it about the women of England that so ensnares, especially with your warrior’s ways that ought not appeal in the absence of soft and sweet?”
Hawisa: “Perhaps the blood of long gone shield maidens yet courses our veins—the determined, hard, and fierce appearing when it is not enough for our men to defend family, home, and country. . . . But you are wrong to believe there is no soft and sweet when armor and weapons are shed, Sir Maël. For the right man.”
See what I mean? And it’s not just what is said, but the WAY it is said—something that is true of so much of this novel.
And I mustn’t forget the growing regard between Guarin and Hawisa and the circumstances under which it flourishes. For many authors, a situation where one character is held in the captivity of another would rely on physical attraction to carry the romantic storyline, but Tamara Leigh makes it so much richer and more complex than that. And thus, so much more satisfying.
In closing, it’s worth mentioning that the nature of this series means that the stories overlap. The author notes at the beginning of the book that there will be some repetition of scenes that appear in previous books, and there was even a pivotal scene from an earlier novel, Lady of Conquest, as well. These scenes are all presented from a different perspective than in previous books, and I loved getting the different angles and even filling in some blanks that were previously unknown. But most of all, I LOVED having the huge blank that was Guarin and Hawisa’s story filled in. Now if only I didn’t have to wait so long for Dougray’s story. It promises to be another great one!
January 25, 2021
Second time read:
Guarin is my favorite D'Argent! What an amazing man...I only hope to find someone similar in real life!
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Wow! Ms. Leigh has done it again! She never fails me when I need medieval romance novels. She is one of my go-to authors. I have to say, I really thought Isa was a real antagonist in the first novel but here we are and I feel for her plight more than in the first book.
Guarin is honorable and self-sacrificing over and over to keep Isa from the would-be destructive end of the Normans; his countrymen.
Isa is strong-willed, stubborn (good and bad), deceptive, and scared. The latter is the primal emotion that drives all of her actions, reactions, and choices (good and bad).
Put the two together and one of two things is bound to happen. Either they kill each other or they fall in love. What happens? I won't spoil it...but mayhap I already have. I eagerly await the next book!
Dougary is a character that you don't see much in the first two books. I'll be happy to read his story!
Guarin is my favorite D'Argent! What an amazing man...I only hope to find someone similar in real life!
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Wow! Ms. Leigh has done it again! She never fails me when I need medieval romance novels. She is one of my go-to authors. I have to say, I really thought Isa was a real antagonist in the first novel but here we are and I feel for her plight more than in the first book.
Guarin is honorable and self-sacrificing over and over to keep Isa from the would-be destructive end of the Normans; his countrymen.
Isa is strong-willed, stubborn (good and bad), deceptive, and scared. The latter is the primal emotion that drives all of her actions, reactions, and choices (good and bad).
Put the two together and one of two things is bound to happen. Either they kill each other or they fall in love. What happens? I won't spoil it...but mayhap I already have. I eagerly await the next book!
Dougary is a character that you don't see much in the first two books. I'll be happy to read his story!
April 26, 2019
Absolutely fabulous addition to the series!
This book has the tension, peril, and swordfighting worthy of a book that explains the beginning of the Wulfriths!
I just loved so much about it!
Great message, great action, great romance!
Even the tidbits of how the Wulfrith daggers came to be and the significance of the stone.
I could go on and on, if you like Tamara Leigh, or romance and adventure in the medieval times, I highly recommend this book.
It's great!
This book has the tension, peril, and swordfighting worthy of a book that explains the beginning of the Wulfriths!
I just loved so much about it!
Great message, great action, great romance!
Even the tidbits of how the Wulfrith daggers came to be and the significance of the stone.
I could go on and on, if you like Tamara Leigh, or romance and adventure in the medieval times, I highly recommend this book.
It's great!
September 14, 2021
I couldn’t decide between 4/4.5… I loved the story—as always, this author’s stories pull me in. I especially loved seeing how the Wulfriths began…a family that will always hold a special place in my heart! I just wish the couple had more time together on page—especially after captivity. But the romance was still there ❤️
Loved watching Guarin and Isa’s story come together! ❤️
Loved watching Guarin and Isa’s story come together! ❤️
May 9, 2019
Another good medieval read from Tamara Leigh.
March 10, 2020
For those of you wondering how long this plot follows a parallel line to that in Merciless (but obvs focused on Guarin & Isa's story, not Aelfled & Cyr's)--around the 65% mark is when the Merciless book plot ends and Fearless continues for the rest of the book. If that makes sense. Also, since I read Lady of Conquest quite recently, I also somewhat knew the ending because the last several chapters of Fearless panned out (from a different perspective) in the end pages of Lady of Conquest.
Overall, the plot was fairly slow (partially because I knew what was going to go down since I read Merciless and knew what the overarching picture/conclusion was going to be), and more plot/political landscape based, rather than relationship-based. Don't get me wrong, there was plenty of relationship building, just...more of an emphasis was put on battles and strategies and the politics of the warring people groups and such. I prefer more character-based plots, however, Fearless was well done, and I thought Isa and Guarin's had some really sweet moments. In addition--I've learned a ton about the Saxon & Norman history of England, which is so fascinating!
Also, are Jaxon and Maxen Pendery...brothers? Or cousins? I just finished reading Lady of Conquest (telling Maxen Pendery's and Rhianon's story) & Jaxen was never mentioned.
Overall, the plot was fairly slow (partially because I knew what was going to go down since I read Merciless and knew what the overarching picture/conclusion was going to be), and more plot/political landscape based, rather than relationship-based. Don't get me wrong, there was plenty of relationship building, just...more of an emphasis was put on battles and strategies and the politics of the warring people groups and such. I prefer more character-based plots, however, Fearless was well done, and I thought Isa and Guarin's had some really sweet moments. In addition--I've learned a ton about the Saxon & Norman history of England, which is so fascinating!
Also, are Jaxon and Maxen Pendery...brothers? Or cousins? I just finished reading Lady of Conquest (telling Maxen Pendery's and Rhianon's story) & Jaxen was never mentioned.
November 15, 2019
These Age of Conquests books aren't my favorite just because they focus so much on war, and politics of the time. Also, especially the first two books in this series start at the same time and cover the same events. Which made the second book in particular not as fun to read.
March 5, 2020
I'm trying to catch up with this series before the 4th book comes out in April. The Age of Conquest series is another family Saga like Mrs Leigh's previous Age of Faith Series, except its set nearly 100 years earlier in the years following the Norman Conquest of 1066.
The subtitle suggests that it is an origin story for the Wulfrith family. The first book really wasn't- but it introduced a character who might have a role in it. Hawisa Wulfrithdottir, a widowed Saxon noblewoman. Fearless is Hawisa's story, and that of Guarin the eldest brother of the Norman family who arrive to settle her lands.
Fearless is a very intense story, with a lot of action, fighting and emotional angst. It does go over a bit of of the territory of the first book, but most is new. Hawisa fights her love for Gaurin, who is aftera all one of the invaders of her land. Yet he did her a kindness after Hastings and she is drawn to him. By turn, letting him go could prove fatal to her people.
The reader can identify with the struggles of the characters, even if a couple of parts came over as a little overdone. I found myself enjoying the book overall, and wanting to see how their story would come together.
Historically, it seemed quite accurate though I had a couple of niggles: throwing daggers for example. Wulfren Castle also seems a little too advanced for the time period. History and archeology tells us that mos of the castles constructed in the years after the Norman were simple Motte and Bailey affairs, constructed from wood with wooden palisades.
As below:
Wulfren seems like a castle of the style of a couple of centuries later. Also 3 female characters wearing men's clothes and fighting like men- yeah, I'm just not sure. I get the context and the situation, a rebellion and learning to defend themselves and all. Yet comes over as a bit cliched and formulaic. There have been other characters like that in previous novels by this author (remember Annyn in The Unveiling), and a lot of others.
Its well done, but maybe done a bit too much. Also, where are the spears? Seriously, the Bayeux tapestry shows men on horseback fighting with spears. Swords seem to be the primary weapon here. Indeed often the only one.
Anyway the niggles are minor and didn't really detract from my enjoyment of the story.
I'll certainly be buying the next novels in this series to see what happens to some of the other characters, especially the grizzled Saxon warrior Vitalis. I have the next book on my Kindle already, and look forward to reading Emma and Dougray's story.
The subtitle suggests that it is an origin story for the Wulfrith family. The first book really wasn't- but it introduced a character who might have a role in it. Hawisa Wulfrithdottir, a widowed Saxon noblewoman. Fearless is Hawisa's story, and that of Guarin the eldest brother of the Norman family who arrive to settle her lands.
Fearless is a very intense story, with a lot of action, fighting and emotional angst. It does go over a bit of of the territory of the first book, but most is new. Hawisa fights her love for Gaurin, who is aftera all one of the invaders of her land. Yet he did her a kindness after Hastings and she is drawn to him. By turn, letting him go could prove fatal to her people.
The reader can identify with the struggles of the characters, even if a couple of parts came over as a little overdone. I found myself enjoying the book overall, and wanting to see how their story would come together.
Historically, it seemed quite accurate though I had a couple of niggles: throwing daggers for example. Wulfren Castle also seems a little too advanced for the time period. History and archeology tells us that mos of the castles constructed in the years after the Norman were simple Motte and Bailey affairs, constructed from wood with wooden palisades.
As below:
Wulfren seems like a castle of the style of a couple of centuries later. Also 3 female characters wearing men's clothes and fighting like men- yeah, I'm just not sure. I get the context and the situation, a rebellion and learning to defend themselves and all. Yet comes over as a bit cliched and formulaic. There have been other characters like that in previous novels by this author (remember Annyn in The Unveiling), and a lot of others.
Its well done, but maybe done a bit too much. Also, where are the spears? Seriously, the Bayeux tapestry shows men on horseback fighting with spears. Swords seem to be the primary weapon here. Indeed often the only one.
Anyway the niggles are minor and didn't really detract from my enjoyment of the story.
I'll certainly be buying the next novels in this series to see what happens to some of the other characters, especially the grizzled Saxon warrior Vitalis. I have the next book on my Kindle already, and look forward to reading Emma and Dougray's story.
June 9, 2019
When Guarin D'Argent goes out of his way to protect a Saxon lady from the bloody aftermath of Hastings, he is repaid by being taken captive by the lady's vengeful warriors. Imprisoned for two years in the camp of rebel Saxons, all he can hope to do is survive. But in the midst of his suffering, he comes to feel for Isa, the widowed Saxon lady who keeps him alive for some unknown reason. When Guarin's younger brother Cyr begins to apply pressure to the rebels, Guarin must decide whether to make good his escape or make sure Isa is safe. But what hope is there for them in love when he would never wed a Saxon and she is determined not to yield to a Norman ever again?
This book retreads the path laid out in Merciless, the first book of the Age of Conquest series. In that story, Cyr is searching for his lost brother while trying to uproot the Saxon rebellion. In this story, Guarin is enduring the frustration and privation of captivity, waiting for his family to come to his aid. While I usually don't enjoy rehashes of old material, this book was different enough that the storyline didn't drag. Guarin demonstrates a strength of spirit and a refusal to give up even in the most dire of circumstances, all while keeping his sense of compassion.
Isa was an intriguing heroine, determined that her Wulfrith blood with never mix with a Norman's, no matter what the usurping King William might decide. Following in her father's footsteps, she knows how to train warriors and trains as a warrior herself. At first, her ties to Guarin are forged by guilt--after all, it was through his consideration of her person that he ended up a captive in the first place. Later, as she observes his fortitude and care for those weaker than him, she feels the stirrings of love, but her pride will not allow her to admit such an emotion for a Norman.
The finale of the book brought in a host of material from another of Tamara Leigh's books, Lady of Conquest--so much so that I would say reading Lady of Conquest is a prerequisite to reading the Age of Conquest series. The climactic scene of Fearless, the showdown between King William and the rebel forces, involves many new characters heretofore unseen in Fearless (Max Pendery, Elan Pendery, Edwin Harwolfson, etc.), and felt very "tacked on" to this book. Despite this, I did enjoy seeing how Guarin (and his cousin Mael D'Argent) conducted themselves at the battle and the way in which Guarin finally wins Isa for himself...at the cost of his own pride.
I look forward to seeing Tamara Leigh's next book in the series and finding out how the one-armed Dougray D'Argent will prove himself.
This book retreads the path laid out in Merciless, the first book of the Age of Conquest series. In that story, Cyr is searching for his lost brother while trying to uproot the Saxon rebellion. In this story, Guarin is enduring the frustration and privation of captivity, waiting for his family to come to his aid. While I usually don't enjoy rehashes of old material, this book was different enough that the storyline didn't drag. Guarin demonstrates a strength of spirit and a refusal to give up even in the most dire of circumstances, all while keeping his sense of compassion.
Isa was an intriguing heroine, determined that her Wulfrith blood with never mix with a Norman's, no matter what the usurping King William might decide. Following in her father's footsteps, she knows how to train warriors and trains as a warrior herself. At first, her ties to Guarin are forged by guilt--after all, it was through his consideration of her person that he ended up a captive in the first place. Later, as she observes his fortitude and care for those weaker than him, she feels the stirrings of love, but her pride will not allow her to admit such an emotion for a Norman.
The finale of the book brought in a host of material from another of Tamara Leigh's books, Lady of Conquest--so much so that I would say reading Lady of Conquest is a prerequisite to reading the Age of Conquest series. The climactic scene of Fearless, the showdown between King William and the rebel forces, involves many new characters heretofore unseen in Fearless (Max Pendery, Elan Pendery, Edwin Harwolfson, etc.), and felt very "tacked on" to this book. Despite this, I did enjoy seeing how Guarin (and his cousin Mael D'Argent) conducted themselves at the battle and the way in which Guarin finally wins Isa for himself...at the cost of his own pride.
I look forward to seeing Tamara Leigh's next book in the series and finding out how the one-armed Dougray D'Argent will prove himself.
March 19, 2025
Full spoilers, including for Merciless.
I've decided I'm not going to even try to summarise the plot, and instead I'll just mention what I liked (and didn't like so much).
We met Isa in Merciless, since she's Aelfled's lady. When we're first introduced to her, it's in the aftermath of her son's death and we see her in a heart of her grief. It's also worth noting that Merciless is through Aelfled's eyes, and her perspective is her lady holding her responsible for son's death and holding her sort of emotionally hostage (even though she did have a lot of love for Isa). All this to say is I didn't have warm feelings for Isa in Merciless, since I was attached to the protagonists in that book, so I wondered if she would win me over in Fearless. And the conclusion is...kind of.
This book helped me to truly appreciate Leigh's writing, especially her development of truly complex characters. Isa is complicated. In her frustrations with Aelfled (my foremost concern at the outset of this book since I read it immediately after Merciless) are a little more nuanced from her perspective. We understand moreso how her deep seated guilt contributed to a lot of her reactions. We also see what motivates her to continue the rebellion movement. Her loyalty to her father, to her people. We do see her being stuck in many complicated situations, with no easy way out. But that being said she wasn't always easy to root for. Super easy to understand and sympathise with but me personally, I didn't entirely warm to her.
And I think what it is, is that Isa thinks a lot about her actions and her impacts on other people. She's aware that a lot of the decisions she makes are self-serving, even when she feels that it is for the benefit of the greater good, but she does acknowledge the wounds it inflicts on some. And while the introspection was great and I needed it to not entirely dislike her, she never fully translated those introspections into actual words or better yet, actions. And that is actually the entire reason this is 4 stars and not 5 because the plot, writing, characterizations, everything was excellent.
I don't really have much to say about Guarin except that he was great. He was surprisingly funny which was unexpected for me. I also thought that Leigh did a great job of laying the groundwork for Guarin and Isa. I did buy into their chemistry and relationship, and you could see how he could overlook the hurt caused to him by Isa. A very nuanced relationship.
Anyway I'm still in the midst of devouring this incredible series.
I've decided I'm not going to even try to summarise the plot, and instead I'll just mention what I liked (and didn't like so much).
We met Isa in Merciless, since she's Aelfled's lady. When we're first introduced to her, it's in the aftermath of her son's death and we see her in a heart of her grief. It's also worth noting that Merciless is through Aelfled's eyes, and her perspective is her lady holding her responsible for son's death and holding her sort of emotionally hostage (even though she did have a lot of love for Isa). All this to say is I didn't have warm feelings for Isa in Merciless, since I was attached to the protagonists in that book, so I wondered if she would win me over in Fearless. And the conclusion is...kind of.
This book helped me to truly appreciate Leigh's writing, especially her development of truly complex characters. Isa is complicated. In her frustrations with Aelfled (my foremost concern at the outset of this book since I read it immediately after Merciless) are a little more nuanced from her perspective. We understand moreso how her deep seated guilt contributed to a lot of her reactions. We also see what motivates her to continue the rebellion movement. Her loyalty to her father, to her people. We do see her being stuck in many complicated situations, with no easy way out. But that being said she wasn't always easy to root for. Super easy to understand and sympathise with but me personally, I didn't entirely warm to her.
And I think what it is, is that Isa thinks a lot about her actions and her impacts on other people. She's aware that a lot of the decisions she makes are self-serving, even when she feels that it is for the benefit of the greater good, but she does acknowledge the wounds it inflicts on some. And while the introspection was great and I needed it to not entirely dislike her, she never fully translated those introspections into actual words or better yet, actions. And that is actually the entire reason this is 4 stars and not 5 because the plot, writing, characterizations, everything was excellent.
I don't really have much to say about Guarin except that he was great. He was surprisingly funny which was unexpected for me. I also thought that Leigh did a great job of laying the groundwork for Guarin and Isa. I did buy into their chemistry and relationship, and you could see how he could overlook the hurt caused to him by Isa. A very nuanced relationship.
Anyway I'm still in the midst of devouring this incredible series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2020
First a confession-- I love this time period. It may bias me, but deep inside of me is a little girl who daydreamed about castles, knights, and misty journeys full of quests. Tamara Leigh does all of it with great skill. You feel completely immersed in the world she creates. The way the characters talk and the problems they face are not like today. At the same time, the characters feel like people we care about, relate to, and we'd like to have in our lives.
I sometimes skim over overlapping scenes from series reads. It can become repetitive. Tamara manages to add insight and nuggets of new information that make those scenes feel fresh.
The characters themselves were deeply damaged - and their wounds could have made them very different people. They struggled with how or if God was present and on their side. They were both trying to be honorable and protect loved ones. They were also on totally opposite sides. This was not a romance that was almost extinguished over a simple misunderstanding. The story was compelling enough to make me want to look into the historical events referenced.
I have already started the next book and can't wait to spend more time with the D'Argent family.
I sometimes skim over overlapping scenes from series reads. It can become repetitive. Tamara manages to add insight and nuggets of new information that make those scenes feel fresh.
The characters themselves were deeply damaged - and their wounds could have made them very different people. They struggled with how or if God was present and on their side. They were both trying to be honorable and protect loved ones. They were also on totally opposite sides. This was not a romance that was almost extinguished over a simple misunderstanding. The story was compelling enough to make me want to look into the historical events referenced.
I have already started the next book and can't wait to spend more time with the D'Argent family.
May 2, 2019
Yet another outstanding medieval story from Tamara Leigh. I don't know how she continues to improve with each book, but they get better and better. I think her heroes in this Age of Conquest series are her best yet. I love her heroines too, but there is something extra special about the D'Argent men.
In this, book 2 of the series, we finally learn the origins of the Wulfrith dynasty from her Age of Faith series. And what a foundation is set! There were some unexpected surprises about the beginnings of the Wulfrith warriors, namely that Hawisa is the source. I was also pleaseantly surprised by how Guarin D'Argent came to be part of that line. And what a warrior he is. Certainly not tame, but able to be gentle, considerate and sacrificial even at cost to self.
I can't wait to read more about the D'Argents and am looking forward to Dougray's story this fall.
In this, book 2 of the series, we finally learn the origins of the Wulfrith dynasty from her Age of Faith series. And what a foundation is set! There were some unexpected surprises about the beginnings of the Wulfrith warriors, namely that Hawisa is the source. I was also pleaseantly surprised by how Guarin D'Argent came to be part of that line. And what a warrior he is. Certainly not tame, but able to be gentle, considerate and sacrificial even at cost to self.
I can't wait to read more about the D'Argents and am looking forward to Dougray's story this fall.
May 21, 2019
Tamara Leigh is top notch. I personally enjoyed Cyr and Aelfled's story more than this one, but it was a very good story anyway! And now that I am finished with it, and have read ALL her other medieval romances, I find myself ready to reread them just to tide me over until Nameless; yes, totally addicted, and don't want to be without!
Along with the main storyline, as usual we are treated to many other characters, all with stories of their own that could be told, and some will be! I do hope that Lady Chanson's story will not all occur off page, and that in future novels in this series, we will get to see that happen, because I am very fond of her match!
I am dying to read Mael's story, and Dougray's promises great things! Which D'Argent will appear on the cover of Nameless along with Dougray and Mael?
Along with the main storyline, as usual we are treated to many other characters, all with stories of their own that could be told, and some will be! I do hope that Lady Chanson's story will not all occur off page, and that in future novels in this series, we will get to see that happen, because I am very fond of her match!
I am dying to read Mael's story, and Dougray's promises great things! Which D'Argent will appear on the cover of Nameless along with Dougray and Mael?
May 23, 2019
I have read several of Tamara Leigh‘s series and stand-alone books and I love them. Her storylines are interesting and complex — never predictable. Her characters are beautifully written so that you care about them and embrace them as genuine and human. Also, they are consistently challenged morally and situationally so you see them wrestle with their emotions, morals and ethics against great odds. I really appreciate how well her heroes and heroines are paired. I can’t think of a book yet where I didn’t like the H & h and didn’t think they were exactly suited to each other and for the benefit of each other. Her books give me great satisfaction and pleasure. I re-read them because I enjoy the stories, characters and the beautiful and authentic language. Tamara is a gifted writer.
October 23, 2020
Great series
If you have read a Tamara Leigh story, this one is fun because many of her characters from her other books make their appearance on the battlefield with King William. I struggled a bit at first with the main character Issa and just how hardened she was to everyone, but as the story continued I loved this sensitive warrior and her concern for her people. Great read.
Content: Clean. There's not really detail but there is a fade to black moment near the end after marriage.
Language: Clean
Religious: Yes. Leigh writes Christian fiction and talks a lot about faith, but it really fits the medeaval period and is not preachy or overbearing.
Happy reading!!
If you have read a Tamara Leigh story, this one is fun because many of her characters from her other books make their appearance on the battlefield with King William. I struggled a bit at first with the main character Issa and just how hardened she was to everyone, but as the story continued I loved this sensitive warrior and her concern for her people. Great read.
Content: Clean. There's not really detail but there is a fade to black moment near the end after marriage.
Language: Clean
Religious: Yes. Leigh writes Christian fiction and talks a lot about faith, but it really fits the medeaval period and is not preachy or overbearing.
Happy reading!!
December 13, 2019
Appropriately titled!
Fearless is an apt description of both the hero, Lord Guarin D'Argent, heir to his D'Argent family lands, and the heroine, sole heir to the Wulfrith family desmesne, Lady Hawisa Wulfrith Fortier, aka dotter! This story is filled with suffering, struggles, strife and loss and yet also with guilt, longing, kindness and love on both their parts! I loved this story of the inception of the strong Wulfrith family and their Wulfen Castle that many previous stories are based upon. One of my favorite medieval families and the basis of the Wulfrith dagger! 💖💖💖
Fearless is an apt description of both the hero, Lord Guarin D'Argent, heir to his D'Argent family lands, and the heroine, sole heir to the Wulfrith family desmesne, Lady Hawisa Wulfrith Fortier, aka dotter! This story is filled with suffering, struggles, strife and loss and yet also with guilt, longing, kindness and love on both their parts! I loved this story of the inception of the strong Wulfrith family and their Wulfen Castle that many previous stories are based upon. One of my favorite medieval families and the basis of the Wulfrith dagger! 💖💖💖
January 2, 2020
Amazing storyteller with such diversity among heroes and heroines.
This was a harder tale for me to appreciate due to the heroine's anger, bloodlust and seeming want to blame others. Though, once her family history is known her impetuosity is easier understood. Then, I only need to consider myself and how quickly I want injustice to be made right and how adamantly I want to fight to see it so. Perhaps if I had the resources, physical and emotional energy to begin with, I would hastily step into the battle without consideration for other, better alternatives.
This was a harder tale for me to appreciate due to the heroine's anger, bloodlust and seeming want to blame others. Though, once her family history is known her impetuosity is easier understood. Then, I only need to consider myself and how quickly I want injustice to be made right and how adamantly I want to fight to see it so. Perhaps if I had the resources, physical and emotional energy to begin with, I would hastily step into the battle without consideration for other, better alternatives.
January 17, 2022
Fearless Book 2 in the Age of Conquest series. I loved it, the main characters truly are fearless. Guarin D'Argent, kidnapped, beaten, forced to train enemy soldiers remains fearless throughout his ordeal. Lady Hawisa, leader, warrior, woman remains fearless as she fights to maintain hold of her lands and train the rebel soldiers against the Normans who now control the land. If you like Medieval stories then read this series, even though the story is fiction it is based on fact. Full of action, adventure and romance.
May 12, 2019
As always, a great story by Tamara Leigh
I love the writing & stories Tamara weaves. This book takes place at the same time as the first (Merciless) and the stories interconnect at times. (That totally impressed me, she keeps a good timeline). The D’Argent family is one that makes a great series. I can’t wait until August when Nameless comes out! No spoilers here, just gotta recommend not only the book but the series!
I love the writing & stories Tamara weaves. This book takes place at the same time as the first (Merciless) and the stories interconnect at times. (That totally impressed me, she keeps a good timeline). The D’Argent family is one that makes a great series. I can’t wait until August when Nameless comes out! No spoilers here, just gotta recommend not only the book but the series!
March 24, 2021
What did I think, Goodreads? Tamara is one of my auto-read/buy authors. Of course I loved it. Isa's stubbornness matched against Guarin's tenacity was exciting to read waay past my bedtime trying to get to the very satisfying conclusion. Like the brilliant author she is, she has me ready for the next one, having the laid the groundwork for Dougray's story in this and Merciless. I'm so glad to be so far behind in this series. :)
July 9, 2021
Just a quick review. This will still go on my favorite list even though I gave it a 4. I LOVE the characters and storyline, but the language in this book was a little harder to get into than previous books by Ms. Leigh. I usually love the meter of the language, but this time in was a little more confusing. I had to read slow to make sure I was understanding everything correctly. Other than that, still on my recommendations list.
May 1, 2019
It all began with a woman...
Sir Guarin rescues Lady Hawisa on the battlefield and then becomes her prisoner among rebel Saxons. If you wonder how the Wulfrith name came to be, this is the book to read. Romance and adventure in a medieval time setting. Loved the message of hope and forgiveness. Beautifully done.
Sir Guarin rescues Lady Hawisa on the battlefield and then becomes her prisoner among rebel Saxons. If you wonder how the Wulfrith name came to be, this is the book to read. Romance and adventure in a medieval time setting. Loved the message of hope and forgiveness. Beautifully done.
August 19, 2019
Guarin and Isa’s story...what can be said? Bloodshed and betrayal, forgiveness and love. Guarin has got to be the most long-suffering of all Leigh’s characters. A swoon worthy hero if ever there was one. And Isa’s character is a formidable companion. Well matched indeed. Looking forward to the other tales in this series—especially Mael’s please!
February 11, 2020
Insightful Series
This fascinating series continues in book two. The story, set in a dramatic time in English history, interweaves with book one giving us a look at events from a different perspective as well as developing the story. Well written with such an interesting look at the events and people of the time. Nice to see this series on Kindle Unlimited.
This fascinating series continues in book two. The story, set in a dramatic time in English history, interweaves with book one giving us a look at events from a different perspective as well as developing the story. Well written with such an interesting look at the events and people of the time. Nice to see this series on Kindle Unlimited.
December 11, 2021
They both were fearless.......
This second book in this series definitely fills in the gaps in the first book, the re-telling of the battle from Isa's point of view made her character more likeable. Gaurin is a saint to be held for so long and still in want of the lady. Will read next one in this series.
This second book in this series definitely fills in the gaps in the first book, the re-telling of the battle from Isa's point of view made her character more likeable. Gaurin is a saint to be held for so long and still in want of the lady. Will read next one in this series.
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