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The Heirs of Anarchy #1
Child of Water
Winter, 1110, England
On a beach, standing in the snow, a girl of eight winters waits for a ship that will take her from her homeland of England, from her family, to her husband. That girl is Matilda, daughter of Henry I, King of the English and Duke of Normandy. In time she would become Queen of the Germans and Romans, and Empress of the Holy Empire.
From the dark forests and mighty castles of the German states of the Empire, to the Alps, northern Italy and Rome, Matilda will travel, at first the apprentice of power, learning from her husband, Heinrich, the Emperor. Through times of war and peace, loss and deepest sorrow, her story unfolds, leading her back to the place of her birth, and the promise of a throne.
Child of Water is the first book in the series The Heirs of Anarchy, by G. Lawrence.
The author's thanks are due to Julia Gibbs, proof reader of this work, and Consuelo Parra, the cover artist.
On a beach, standing in the snow, a girl of eight winters waits for a ship that will take her from her homeland of England, from her family, to her husband. That girl is Matilda, daughter of Henry I, King of the English and Duke of Normandy. In time she would become Queen of the Germans and Romans, and Empress of the Holy Empire.
From the dark forests and mighty castles of the German states of the Empire, to the Alps, northern Italy and Rome, Matilda will travel, at first the apprentice of power, learning from her husband, Heinrich, the Emperor. Through times of war and peace, loss and deepest sorrow, her story unfolds, leading her back to the place of her birth, and the promise of a throne.
Child of Water is the first book in the series The Heirs of Anarchy, by G. Lawrence.
The author's thanks are due to Julia Gibbs, proof reader of this work, and Consuelo Parra, the cover artist.
446 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 6, 2020
532 people are currently reading
264 people want to read
About the author
G. Lawrence
50 books279 followersI am an independently published author, and proud to be so. Living in a little cottage in Wales in the UK, I love where I live as much as I love to write.
The age of the Tudors has been an obsession for me since I was a child, and many of my upcoming books will center on that time, but I also pen the odd dystopian fiction or historical fiction from other time periods. I will be releasing all my titles on amazon, for kindle and then hopefully for print later.
I studied Literature (with a capital L) at University and usually have twenty or more books I'm currently reading. Reading and writing are about mood for me, and I haven't found a genre I didn't enjoy something about so far...
You can often find me on Wattpad or Twitter when I'm not writing...
The age of the Tudors has been an obsession for me since I was a child, and many of my upcoming books will center on that time, but I also pen the odd dystopian fiction or historical fiction from other time periods. I will be releasing all my titles on amazon, for kindle and then hopefully for print later.
I studied Literature (with a capital L) at University and usually have twenty or more books I'm currently reading. Reading and writing are about mood for me, and I haven't found a genre I didn't enjoy something about so far...
You can often find me on Wattpad or Twitter when I'm not writing...
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
February 26, 2020
The early years of Matilda, granddaughter of William the Conqueror, who, at the age of 8, was sent to marry the Holy Roman Emperor Henry V. Child of Water takes us through Matilda's younger years as she leaves England a child, and, under tuition from her beloved Heinrich and others, becomes the wife, Empress and regent he wants her to be. After his death, she is recalled to England by her father, King Henry I of England.
I loved this book, which taught me a great deal about a period in history of which I know little. I hadn't realised, for instance, that Geoffrey of Anjou was so much younger than her. Matilda's path from precocious child to extraordinarily intelligent and perceptive young woman, beloved by her people and adored by her husband, is beautifully and convincingly written, as is her disorientation when she realises her only option, as a widow, is to return to her father's court, where she is received very differently—and her frustration about the lot of women, even her perceptions of freedom versus the reality.
One aspect of this book that I liked very much was the intricate detail about how the people lived, particularly the descriptions of London on Matilda's return. Although not always part of the story it did not seem out of place, but gave a more three-dimensional background to Matilda's life. I have enjoyed passages like this in this author's previous books, and am glad that she included more domestic and historical detail in this one; that it is a story of England, not just the main characters. The author's notes at the back add extra snippets of information.
The book ends with Matilda's marriage to Geoffrey planta genista....I am so looking forward to reading the rest of the series, and her struggles for the throne against her cousin, Stephen. Well done, Ms Lawrence!
I loved this book, which taught me a great deal about a period in history of which I know little. I hadn't realised, for instance, that Geoffrey of Anjou was so much younger than her. Matilda's path from precocious child to extraordinarily intelligent and perceptive young woman, beloved by her people and adored by her husband, is beautifully and convincingly written, as is her disorientation when she realises her only option, as a widow, is to return to her father's court, where she is received very differently—and her frustration about the lot of women, even her perceptions of freedom versus the reality.
One aspect of this book that I liked very much was the intricate detail about how the people lived, particularly the descriptions of London on Matilda's return. Although not always part of the story it did not seem out of place, but gave a more three-dimensional background to Matilda's life. I have enjoyed passages like this in this author's previous books, and am glad that she included more domestic and historical detail in this one; that it is a story of England, not just the main characters. The author's notes at the back add extra snippets of information.
The book ends with Matilda's marriage to Geoffrey planta genista....I am so looking forward to reading the rest of the series, and her struggles for the throne against her cousin, Stephen. Well done, Ms Lawrence!
March 2, 2020
I loved Gemma Lawrence's work on Catherine Howard, and I loved this book even more. My doctorate is in medieval art history, so I absolutely devour any fiction about the medieval world and people. Matilda is an interesting historical figure. She wasn't at all submissive or compliant. This book, even though the point of view is of course fictionalized, offers a glimpse into this fascinating person. Lawrence's writing is also beautiful and descriptive. Fans of historical fiction will like this novel.
January 20, 2024
Wonderful read. Ms Lawrence brings 12th century England and Normandy life. I enjoyed the depth of insight through Matilda's eyes regarding events in Normandy and life in Germany. On to book two.
February 19, 2020
Excellent as always
I love historical fiction novels and once I had read the obvious authors, I stumbled across Gemma's novels by accident. I thought I would give her books a go. I'm so glad I did! She is a very talented author. I would recommend to anyone.
I love historical fiction novels and once I had read the obvious authors, I stumbled across Gemma's novels by accident. I thought I would give her books a go. I'm so glad I did! She is a very talented author. I would recommend to anyone.
February 25, 2020
Excellent book!! G. Lawrence is an amazing Author!! Looking forward to Book 2 of this series!!
April 18, 2020
Enjoyed this immensely
Always love Lawrence's books...detailed and enthralling!
First read the Tudor series and couldn't get enough so I was happy to find this series too!
Always love Lawrence's books...detailed and enthralling!
First read the Tudor series and couldn't get enough so I was happy to find this series too!
Read
September 13, 2020enjoyed the book
December 4, 2022
I’ve said elsewhere that I learned almost nothing in any of my history courses about the western world before the Renaissance. In recent years, I’ve read widely in both fiction and non-fiction about the British Isles throughout the millennium between the exit of the Romans (roughly 400 A.D.) and the onset of the Renaissance (1400 A.D.). And it has thrilled me to discover that not only is a great deal known about this era, but there is a vast amount of material about the powerful role of women, My next several reviews will feature some of these works.
One of the first Norman era books I picked up – available on Kindle Unlimited, which is always a treat – is Child of Water, by G. Lawrence. This book is the first of a four book series tracing the life of the only daughter of King Henry I (reigned1100 to 1135). Matilda (1102-1167), or Maude, as she was also known, came into power first as the Holy Roman Empress, through her marriage to the Holy Roman Emperor Henry V in 1110, when she was a mere child of eight; then, following his death, as the rival claimant to the English throne during the years of Anarchy, 1135-1154; and finally in Normandy, often acting as representative for her son, King Henry II, and presiding over the government of the Normandy Duchy
Almost all the events I just enumerated are things I knew nothing about before I picked up Child of Water, but the book is nothing like a history lesson. Lawrence uses the first person point of view masterfully to create an engaging and highly readable narrative. There’s just enough detail about events to enable unfamiliar readers to anchor themselves, but never so much as to overwhelm. Characters and events materialize on the page because Matilda is affected by them. We see what she sees, learn what she learns, and come to know what she fears, hopes, and decides as the events unfold.
Child of Water opens in Rouen shortly before Matilda’s death, as she reflects on her life and her role. Here is a snippet that spoke to me:
"One day, when I am gone, my ladies will tell their husbands and children of me. With a touch of pride, something they will attempt to conceal since noble women are not supposed to possess it, they will say that once they attended upon me, the Empress Matilda, Lady of the English, daughter of Henry I, wife to the Count of Anjou and the Holy Roman Emperor … the woman who waged war against men for a throne."
The book then drops us into the mind of eight-year-old Matilda as she waits on the beach for a longboat to bear her on the first step of her sea and land journey to marry the man who has been named Holy Roman Emperor but not yet crowned. We travel with her, study with her in her new home, grow up with her and see her crowned empress. This first volume then traces her life and her inner world as she returns to England upon the death of her husband. It then concludes as she marries the man her father has chosen for her, Goeffrey, Count of Anjou – who wore a yellow flower in his hair and eventually ushered in the Plantagenet house of British royalty, through their son, Henry II. The details of these and subsequent events in Matilda’s life form the remaining three volumes in the series.
In summary, I found Child of Water to be an intriguing and informative read. I was especially struck by Matilda’s reflections (naturally the invention of the author, but plausible at the very least) as she navigated male world of power plays among her husband the emperor, the Pope, the antipope, and the Germanic nobility, and then the world of her father and his holdings in England and Normandy. One might think such modern thoughts are anachronistic, but embedded as they were in very real events, I found them insightful
I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in early Norman history, and even for those who are curious to discover if they might develop such an interest.
One of the first Norman era books I picked up – available on Kindle Unlimited, which is always a treat – is Child of Water, by G. Lawrence. This book is the first of a four book series tracing the life of the only daughter of King Henry I (reigned1100 to 1135). Matilda (1102-1167), or Maude, as she was also known, came into power first as the Holy Roman Empress, through her marriage to the Holy Roman Emperor Henry V in 1110, when she was a mere child of eight; then, following his death, as the rival claimant to the English throne during the years of Anarchy, 1135-1154; and finally in Normandy, often acting as representative for her son, King Henry II, and presiding over the government of the Normandy Duchy
Almost all the events I just enumerated are things I knew nothing about before I picked up Child of Water, but the book is nothing like a history lesson. Lawrence uses the first person point of view masterfully to create an engaging and highly readable narrative. There’s just enough detail about events to enable unfamiliar readers to anchor themselves, but never so much as to overwhelm. Characters and events materialize on the page because Matilda is affected by them. We see what she sees, learn what she learns, and come to know what she fears, hopes, and decides as the events unfold.
Child of Water opens in Rouen shortly before Matilda’s death, as she reflects on her life and her role. Here is a snippet that spoke to me:
"One day, when I am gone, my ladies will tell their husbands and children of me. With a touch of pride, something they will attempt to conceal since noble women are not supposed to possess it, they will say that once they attended upon me, the Empress Matilda, Lady of the English, daughter of Henry I, wife to the Count of Anjou and the Holy Roman Emperor … the woman who waged war against men for a throne."
The book then drops us into the mind of eight-year-old Matilda as she waits on the beach for a longboat to bear her on the first step of her sea and land journey to marry the man who has been named Holy Roman Emperor but not yet crowned. We travel with her, study with her in her new home, grow up with her and see her crowned empress. This first volume then traces her life and her inner world as she returns to England upon the death of her husband. It then concludes as she marries the man her father has chosen for her, Goeffrey, Count of Anjou – who wore a yellow flower in his hair and eventually ushered in the Plantagenet house of British royalty, through their son, Henry II. The details of these and subsequent events in Matilda’s life form the remaining three volumes in the series.
In summary, I found Child of Water to be an intriguing and informative read. I was especially struck by Matilda’s reflections (naturally the invention of the author, but plausible at the very least) as she navigated male world of power plays among her husband the emperor, the Pope, the antipope, and the Germanic nobility, and then the world of her father and his holdings in England and Normandy. One might think such modern thoughts are anachronistic, but embedded as they were in very real events, I found them insightful
I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in early Norman history, and even for those who are curious to discover if they might develop such an interest.
January 1, 2024
I love a good historical fiction and can honestly say that I go into each one expecting some fact and some author license in making a decent story. This book was just that - a fun and decent story.
The problem was that it was slow to start, slow to meander through the middle, and slow to finish. Lots happened in Matilda’s life, but there was far too much introspection for it to be done justice. I found myself taking longer to read it because I would skip whole paragraphs with my eyes expecting it to be one of Matilda’s philosophical thoughts. Going back to read, sometimes it was, sometimes it was actual plot content.
I really, really liked Matilda as a character though. I found her unbelievable as an 8 year old considering the language she used, but maybe she was given such a strict education, we’ll never know. But throughout she was a good and engaging character to read about. I genuinely cared for a positive outcome for her and wanted joy and happiness (and power) to be hers eternally. Heinrich was also brilliant - whether he was as such in life is possibly debatable but from the moment we met him I was in love.
The pacing of this book is my biggest problem. It wasn’t an easy read. Will I read more? Perhaps? I’m a little against the next book, knowing what it contains! But ultimately the pacing probably isn’t enough to pull me away from reading further into this series… because the book was very well written despite the introspection.
The problem was that it was slow to start, slow to meander through the middle, and slow to finish. Lots happened in Matilda’s life, but there was far too much introspection for it to be done justice. I found myself taking longer to read it because I would skip whole paragraphs with my eyes expecting it to be one of Matilda’s philosophical thoughts. Going back to read, sometimes it was, sometimes it was actual plot content.
I really, really liked Matilda as a character though. I found her unbelievable as an 8 year old considering the language she used, but maybe she was given such a strict education, we’ll never know. But throughout she was a good and engaging character to read about. I genuinely cared for a positive outcome for her and wanted joy and happiness (and power) to be hers eternally. Heinrich was also brilliant - whether he was as such in life is possibly debatable but from the moment we met him I was in love.
The pacing of this book is my biggest problem. It wasn’t an easy read. Will I read more? Perhaps? I’m a little against the next book, knowing what it contains! But ultimately the pacing probably isn’t enough to pull me away from reading further into this series… because the book was very well written despite the introspection.
April 4, 2024
Child of Water, a biographical historical fiction written by independent author Gemma Lawrence. The first instalment in The Heirs of Anarchy series, is a compelling narrative on the early life of Matilda, daughter of Henry I, who became Empress of the Holy Empire.
Lawrence skillfully weaves historical facts with plausible inferences, bridging gaps in the historical record to bring these larger-than-life characters to life. By incorporating intricate details on various aspects of the era, such as culinary practices, herbal medicine, and the daily lives of both servants and nobility, Lawrence creates immersive scenes that transports readers to a bygone age.
What sets Child of Water apart is its focus on strong female figures in history. This novel is notable for its exploration of the challenges faced by trailblazing women like Matilda, who paved the way for future queens of England. The complex political climate of the time is vividly portrayed, offering readers a deeper understanding of the numerous obstacles Matilda had to overcome to mark her place in history.
Child of Water is a book filled with rich historical detail that breathes life into the early life of Matilda, once Empress, Queen and Countess. Readers will find themselves immersed in the complex political climate of the day as a notable woman in history finds her footing. Highly recommended!
Lawrence skillfully weaves historical facts with plausible inferences, bridging gaps in the historical record to bring these larger-than-life characters to life. By incorporating intricate details on various aspects of the era, such as culinary practices, herbal medicine, and the daily lives of both servants and nobility, Lawrence creates immersive scenes that transports readers to a bygone age.
What sets Child of Water apart is its focus on strong female figures in history. This novel is notable for its exploration of the challenges faced by trailblazing women like Matilda, who paved the way for future queens of England. The complex political climate of the time is vividly portrayed, offering readers a deeper understanding of the numerous obstacles Matilda had to overcome to mark her place in history.
Child of Water is a book filled with rich historical detail that breathes life into the early life of Matilda, once Empress, Queen and Countess. Readers will find themselves immersed in the complex political climate of the day as a notable woman in history finds her footing. Highly recommended!
March 20, 2021
To begin, I have only published a few shorts, some cheeky editorials, medical truth-to-practice items, so I consider myself a true infant in the craft. But that doesn't mean I don't take what I do read with grace, because I am NOT a well-published author. And I might never be, all things considered.
That said, I did struggle with some of the minutiae. Some parts of the book were tiresome but accurate. Understanding history isn't always cut and dried.
By the time I finished the book, I was invested and ready to keep going.
I hope more readers keep going because eventually, the ride is worth it.
That said, I did struggle with some of the minutiae. Some parts of the book were tiresome but accurate. Understanding history isn't always cut and dried.
By the time I finished the book, I was invested and ready to keep going.
I hope more readers keep going because eventually, the ride is worth it.
January 21, 2023
Powerful and devastating
One thing I must say about G Lawrence books are the great proof reads they do prior to release. So nice to read smoothly and with such great grammar. On to the content...
From page one you get swept into the savage story of a woman, intelligent beyond her years, who must face her future... Destiny?... at the whim of her father. Like all women at this time, she must submit, but Lawrence illuminates her journey in an intimate way, bringing details of everyday life from castle to hut, while keeping you totally enthralled in the historical storyline. On to the next book right away!
One thing I must say about G Lawrence books are the great proof reads they do prior to release. So nice to read smoothly and with such great grammar. On to the content...
From page one you get swept into the savage story of a woman, intelligent beyond her years, who must face her future... Destiny?... at the whim of her father. Like all women at this time, she must submit, but Lawrence illuminates her journey in an intimate way, bringing details of everyday life from castle to hut, while keeping you totally enthralled in the historical storyline. On to the next book right away!
July 11, 2020
Yawn
This book is so boring. It's like reading a history lesson. Why do I care if get family went back so far and who killed who to get their crown?? That, and she's supposed to be right years old in this and she's blithering in like a professor.
This book is so boring. It's like reading a history lesson. Why do I care if get family went back so far and who killed who to get their crown?? That, and she's supposed to be right years old in this and she's blithering in like a professor.
March 9, 2023
The main character is EIGHT but the frequently talk about consummating the marriage, waiting four whole years to the ripe age of TWELVE like that's any better. Romanticized grooming, disgusting.
DNF 20%, I couldn't stomach it anymore.
DNF 20%, I couldn't stomach it anymore.
June 3, 2021
DNF - too heavy with purple prose.
July 21, 2021
This book was more like a history book than a novel.
September 8, 2021
3.5 stars
December 15, 2021
This is an engaging historical romance, with an interesting main character and much detail about life in Europe and in England especially at the time. Highly recommended for lovers of history.
February 22, 2022
Child of Water
This historical novel was an interesting read about a female ancestor of mine. I learned a great deal. BUT it was very repetitious and wordy. Way too long.
This historical novel was an interesting read about a female ancestor of mine. I learned a great deal. BUT it was very repetitious and wordy. Way too long.
Read
June 13, 2022I never read this, selected by mistake
February 17, 2024
Enjoyable read
I enjoyed this book, though at ti m e the length of descriptions of her feelings when on too long.
I enjoyed this book, though at ti m e the length of descriptions of her feelings when on too long.
March 13, 2020
CHILD OF WATER
Book One of Heirs of Anarchy
G. Lawrence
Review by Author Roy Murry
'It is the continuation of the story that matters, not poor shades left behind,' is thought of Matilda, Lady of the English. The daughter of Henry I, the woman who wages war against men for a throne.
G. Lawrence writes this memoir of the English aged regent in the first person, telling her life's journey in a man's world. The words and thoughts of Matilda do not ring well against male domination in eleven hundred ten.
At age eight, she is married to the Holy Roman Emperor, where her education into regal life begins. Taught in their ways, she excels and learns how to use the power of the throne.
On the way to adulthood, Matilda spouts words of wisdom in colorful and intelligent ways. G. Lawrence writes those words that sing truths that apply today but did not then.
The turmoil’s the Empress lives with she overcomes in the Empire, but there comes a time when she must return to England. Life as a woman begins again until she is heir to the English throne. Or does it?
Matilda's words are musical and will stay with the reader throughout this enjoyable journey of the Lady's life. G. Lawrence has done an excellent job in combining History, Philosophy, and Renaissance of 12th-century norms into a pleasant novel.
Book One of Heirs of Anarchy
G. Lawrence
Review by Author Roy Murry
'It is the continuation of the story that matters, not poor shades left behind,' is thought of Matilda, Lady of the English. The daughter of Henry I, the woman who wages war against men for a throne.
G. Lawrence writes this memoir of the English aged regent in the first person, telling her life's journey in a man's world. The words and thoughts of Matilda do not ring well against male domination in eleven hundred ten.
At age eight, she is married to the Holy Roman Emperor, where her education into regal life begins. Taught in their ways, she excels and learns how to use the power of the throne.
On the way to adulthood, Matilda spouts words of wisdom in colorful and intelligent ways. G. Lawrence writes those words that sing truths that apply today but did not then.
The turmoil’s the Empress lives with she overcomes in the Empire, but there comes a time when she must return to England. Life as a woman begins again until she is heir to the English throne. Or does it?
Matilda's words are musical and will stay with the reader throughout this enjoyable journey of the Lady's life. G. Lawrence has done an excellent job in combining History, Philosophy, and Renaissance of 12th-century norms into a pleasant novel.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews