The King's Sword

The Metzlingen Saga #1

by Rebekah Simmers

1479. Matthias is no hero. He’s no one. Simply another mud-spattered baseborn face among thousands, until an act of kindness aligns him with an extraordinary opportunity. His prince fallen in battle, Matthias is entrusted to retrieve a foreign princess as a bride for his king, in exchange for a second chance at a promised reward. Given the honor of wearing his sword in his king’s name, Matthias is hellbent to keep his word. His king—his brothers—are counting on him. And soon, so will she.

Princess Avelina has nothing. And no one. Since the death of her parents shattered her world, Avelina has lived as a political pawn, having been degraded, disinherited, and defined by others. When a mysterious soldier arrives at her bridal barter, Avelina dares to hope - could this be the chance of escape she’s been praying for?

Their paths intertwined, the soldier and princess embark on a journey that will change both of their lives forever. Plagued by self-doubt, rocked by betrayals, haunted by faltering faith and forbidden feelings that test their loyalties, they’ll learn the hardest fought battles are often those waged within themselves.

An irresistible blend of historical fiction, adventure and romance, The King’s Sword is the first novel of the Metzlingen Saga. From soaring Alps to crumbling ruins, welcoming hearths to calculating courts, this love story, nestled within the German landscape of the Renaissance, honors friendship, found family and the lengths we go to for those we love.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Germany

389 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 3, 2021

About the author

Rebekah Simmers is thrilled to share her life long love of writing with The King's Sword, the first novel of The Metzlingen Saga, scheduled for release in August 3, 2021.Largely inspired by medieval and her own familial history, Rebekah loves to incorporate details from her years living, researching and traveling abroad into her writing. As a military child and spouse, former public servant, and special needs parent of five children, Rebekah Simmers also strives to provide a voice for a life of service both within and outside of the home.

Rebekah Simmers is a member of the Historical Novel Society and their Author Interview Team.

Reviews

[Sabrina Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Author herself says it perfectly in her Authors note. "The music of words, and the the artistry they provoke, breathe life into our imagination." That is exactly what she has accomplished in her debut work, The King's Sword, Metzlingen Saga book 1.

I was given the opportunity to read this book as an ARC. This is a beautiful, brutal, life changing, journey that you will take along with these characters who you get to know so deeply. You go through the gambit of emotions through this journey while going along the tremendously beautiful described landscapes of Europe. It is a story of love, hate, survival, loss, devastation, loyalty, devotion, cunning, sacrifice, strength, but above all strength of family you create. I look forward to seeing what happens next in the Metzlingen Saga

[Wardamneagle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was fortunate enough to receive an advance reader’s copy of the book. It was an engaging and entertaining read. The author’s knowledge of the geographical area and finesse with language drops the reader straight into the pages. This book is beautifully written and evokes a myriad of feelings.

The journey through 15th century Germany is not one you will soon forget. Part tragedy but mostly triumph, this is a tale of brotherly love, duty, devotion and ultimately love. I could easily see this story told on screen and would attract women and men alike. I look forward to reading the next installment in this series.

[Jen Borrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started reading this because it is written by a friend. I kept reading because it is really, really good! I was given an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review. So here us my honest review…

The character development is very strong and the story flows so nicely and vividly for the reader. Of course I enjoyed the love story but I cherished the friendship and brotherhood between Matthias and his men even more. Jorn was the perfect picture of the sidekick every leading man needs. And the thoughtful and wise Reymound was also a favorite. The chapters in the mountain are written so well that I could feel the panic and danger in what the characters faced.

Looking forward to what awaits our friends when they arrive in Metzlingen!

[Michele Gary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the first time I have read historical fiction from the Renaissance time period and I was worried that I would have difficulty understanding it. I was pleasantly met with rich details and vivid descriptions that had me submersed completely in the story. After familiarizing myself with the characters, setting, and language, I took off reading. I was completely enthralled with the story...not wanting to put the book down, I devoured it in days. I didn't dare peak ahead because I learned multiple times that what I "expected" to happen did not actually happen. The story wasn't predictable, which I loved. Its twists and turns flowed seamlessly together, like the landscape it is set in. The characters were all so well developed, each with their own story. You will fall in love with the main characters, but will also find yourself drawn to the supporting characters. No one was just a place filler; they each have a story to tell. I cannot wait for this saga to continue...not only to continue on the journey with Matthias and Avelina, but to learn more about all the people that surround them. Astounding writing!
*I was provided an ARC in exchange for an honest review.*

[Stacy Wolfe · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC from the author in return for an honest review. If you like historical fiction, but without the sex (I’m looking at you Outlander) that also is not preachy Christian fiction, this book would be a good fit for you. This is historical fiction which switches between the view points of two people, Matthias, a war weary soldier in the service of an untrustworthy king, and Avelina (love the names), a princess in her own right, but used as a pawn in her lands. Matthias is tasked with fetching Avelina from her kingdom in order to marry his king which, if he does posthaste, he and his men will be given their freedom. Complications arise, etc. Here’s the good: I was really rooting for the characters. The ones you were supposed to like, you really liked. The ones you were supposed to hate, you hated. Even though it was historical, and a romance, It’s not a bodice ripper by any stretch of the imagination. It’s simply a well paced story. The descriptions of setting took you there and were transportive. I crossed rivers and forests with these characters and felt it. Here’s the mediocre: There were parts, especially towards the end, where the characters got really into existential crises and everything got spilled out onto the page. It was too much melodrama and would benefit from being reigned in. I also would have liked to see more of the character Rose. It seemed like she was going to be pivotal and have a storyline, but then she just…disappeared. Overall, I enjoyed this a lot, and when it ended I wanted to know what was going to happen to this crew. There’s huge potential in this series and I can’t wait to see what happens!

[Shady Grove Oliver · Rating 5 out of 5]

The King’s Sword is an action-packed ride from start to finish. Every time you think there might be some down time for the characters, the story takes a new twist or turn. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first cracked open the book, but a few chapters in, I couldn’t wait to see what was in store for Matthias and Avelina. It has the energy of an action-adventure novel (there are caves!), a budding romance (rainy nights, anyone?), and great historical details. The author has also thoughtfully, compassionately, and honestly portrayed the traumatic effects of war and violence on the main character. This isn’t a genre I read often, but once I started The King’s Sword, I genuinely wanted to see what would happen next. More than anything, this is an exciting book that will keep you on your toes. An amazing debut from author Rebekah Simmers! Can’t wait to see where she takes it next.

[Marie Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely recommend you pick up and read this book - the first in the Metzlingen Saga. The author immediately draws you into 15th century Germany and has you falling in love not only with the kingdom with it’s beautiful descriptive narrative but into the love story of Matthias and Avelina as they fight against the odds to not only survive but against others trying to determine their fates. Can’t wait for book 2!

[Alyssa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The King's Sword is one of those stories that latches on and stays with you long after you read the end.
I really enjoyed how Rebekah Simmers intertwines her magical settings with real historical events. Fantastic imagery, I truly felt I was with Matthias and Avelina every step of their incredible journey. A journey that had me staying up way past my bedtime to keep reading “just one more chapter.”
A forbidden love story that is so incredibly lovely in the midst of danger, duty and betrayal - The King’s Sword has it all!

[Steven R · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! I was happy to receive an ARC. I love historical fiction and this book did not disappoint! Adventure, conflict, and romance. I really enjoyed that book was in both main characters' points of view. I am anxiously awaiting the release of the second book.

[CJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved it!!

What an amazing story! Can't wait for more!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Duty. Oath. Vows. I was immediately captivated by the protagonists. The vivid imagery made me feel like I was in Germany along with them on their journey. Great character and plot development. I especially liked the smattering of German words in all of the right places. I was given an ARC for an honest review and I can’t wait to read what else is in store for the princess and her dutiful husband.

[D.K. Marley · Rating 5 out of 5]

“She was Princess Avelina Elisabeth. Heir to the throne. Last of her line. And beyond that, stripped of silks and naked of titles, she was her father’s daughter. She had been loved. She, alone, was enough. And it was she who would determine her own destiny.”

Every once in a while, you come across a rare hidden gem, a beautiful glimmering story so immersive and lovely that you are compelled to tell others. This is one of those diamonds. And yes, I will add my thoughts to this review from my heart, for this novel reached down into my very soul and ripped them from me. If ever there was a novel to rival Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott, then this is the one... at least, in my humble opinion. And while I try to convey the sheer erupting emotions this story invoked, I will include some of the passages, as well, which speak for themselves of the incredible majestic and profound skill this author, Ms Simmers, has with words.

In the midst of Germany, hovering between the dark ages and the Renaissance, a strong yet kind hero emerges. Matthais is that hero, although he is simply a common soldier for the King until a single act of kindness places him in an extraordinary position. He is the epitome of a man’s man and a woman’s dream – handsome, strong, fiercely loyal, honest, bound to his family, dependable, and unexpectedly, gentle. Side by side, he fought with the King’s son until he sees him fall; and upon bringing his body back to the King, is bestowed with the title “the King’s Sword” and sent on a mission to retrieve the promised bride of his fallen son. Yet, the King has plans of his own with this young virgin Princess.

Honour flows through Matthais’ heart like life-giving blood. His word is given and he vows to uphold his word no matter the cost to himself, even if it means his own life, for in his vow to the King he will achieve the ultimate reward for himself and his brothers – their freedom from any more service to the Crown.

And then, you have Princess Avelina. An orphaned political pawn shoved about a chess board for one purpose only, to fulfil the ambitions of men, and to provide an heir. She has nothing after she is disinherited, degraded, and defined by those who snatched her royal position with murder and blood. Hope has fled, and when we first meet her, the day Matthais comes to escort her back to his King, she is a shell of a girl – fragile, pale, lifeless, yet when Matthais bows before her and vows to protect her in a proxy marriage, she at last sees a flicker of hope in his dark eyes.

Yet, there are those still seeking to eradicate her, thinking she might regain power and seize the throne. In an instant, Matthais and Avelina are thrust out into the vast forests and soaring mountain ranges of the Alps, fleeing from one danger to another unwelcome destiny awaiting her. This is the ultimate story of sacrifice and how kindness in the midst of chaos engenders a deep, abiding love and trust between strangers.

Both Matthais and Avelina’s journey is physical and emotional; one of traversing through unfathomable gorges, crumbling mountains, raging thunderstorms, and dark hollow caves reaching down deep into the heart of stone. The physical terrain and each step taken, each twisted ankle bound, or bloody gash stitched, and each refreshing drink of cool water sipped or dipped in, is a reflection of the inner journey for each of them. Souls are reborn. Self-doubt and courage is tested and refined. Love is the drink of water, and hope is the clear crystal pool offering relief from the storms of life. And Avelina becomes Matthais’ ‘hope wrapped in silk.’

And yet, when the barrier between nobility and a servant is broken... when Matthais’ honour comes into question... when forbidden feelings between them both come to the fore in the midst of the ruins of an ancient Metzlingen manor home... what will they choose? Will Matthais bring her to his King? Will Avelina continue the path to her planned destiny? (No spoilers, here! But Chapter 30 is the most beautiful and most honourable chapter written in any book I have read, and is reminiscent of a classic).

“You could’ve squeezed a tear out of the devil himself with the way you two were holding on to each other.”

I cannot even begin to relay how irresistible this story is in adventure and romance of the finest and most honourable quality. This book is proof that even with a thunderous and heart-wrenching tournament between opposing knights, one which you might find visceral, raw, and bloody imagery to strike a pulse-pounding and page-turning story, all you need to do is to tell a great story to keep a reader moving forward in anticipation. I will say, that nearer the end, as I wanted so bad to know the outcome that I felt a little anxious at the drawn-out scenes, but it was worth it, without a doubt!

When you read the descriptions of Scott’s Ivanhoe, you find the main character in love with Lady Rowena, and she is betrothed to Lord Athelstane to bolster the position of the Saxon nobility. This classic wreaks of chivalry, adventure, and romance; and Ms Simmers brings those same ideals and similar characters back to our modern day. This is not the book for those seeking gratuitous violence and steamy sex – this is a beautiful romance set in a time when honour and vows were held in the highest esteem possible. And now, take a moment to absorb this passage, and you will see what I mean about Ms Simmers ability to build a world right before your eyes:

“The myth became man. Each confident step the General took thundered his presence. Face like a badger, his beady, black eyes peered from beneath tightly pulled eyebrows. His head was covered in thick ebony hair, slicked back and streaked with silver. A dark scar ran the length of his face, from his left eye, disappearing into his pointed beard. He spoke to no one, yet all turned in his path and bowed in submission. Matthais dropped his chin, though he did not bow as he would have to his own king. “And the dance of powerful men begins,” Matthais muttered. Had they been in a tavern, they might’ve measure their cocks. Here the men strutted like roosters in the yard, posturing, feathers ruffled and wings thrown wide to increase the ground they occupied. The air was heavy with both muffled and exaggerated conversation and laughter. Pride and insults were hurled between tables wrapped with kin, standing on their names, their money and the swords it bought them. Young suitors peacocked in their best robes – shoulders pinned back, spines pulled from their hips, and chins jutted – while their elders stroked their round bellies. Dinner and more drink arrived, fuelling their sport, carried by servants wrapped in loosely draped linens, hair piled high and their plates piled higher.”

Exquisite. One last thing I will touch on is the incredible way Ms Simmers shows that grief is the ultimate display of love. It reaches us all, noble or common... and to suppress the tears and the pain never works... it will crumble like an avalanche at some point in your life. But you can emerge... stronger, and at peace.

“What you are is grieving. Grief doesn’t make one weak. ‘Tis born of love. Friendship. Family. Brotherhood. Once you grieve, you can find your peace.”

Even days after reading this story, Matthais and Avelina are still on my mind... and I anxiously await the next instalment of the Metzlingen saga.

In a rating system of one to five stars, I give this book a ten; and it is awarded the “Highly Recommended” award by The Historical Fiction Company.

[Rachelle Lachland · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book started out strong and I found many things among the pages (to begin with) very engaging.
The dialogue is particularly well developed and reads well for about 3/4 of the book, but it does start to waver by the end. Combined with the internal struggles of the characters in the final 50 pages I had trouble finding enthusiasm coming back and finishing the novel.

What is very well done is realistic, sweeping, immersive imagery and worldbuilding that becomes the reliable backbone throughout the story. This is good historical fiction in that respect, and deserves applause.

I loved the different chapters from different characters, and I enjoyed many of the peripheral characters. Someone else said it well regarding Rose, she is introduced and seems to be a character that is going to contribute to the main storyline, but then she just disappears... A few of these secondary characters didn't read fully developed, particularly the king. That guy was all over the place with no justification except as some type of abusive, charming, royal, blustery stereotype. Chapters from some of these characters may have convinced me to ship the love story.

Matthias as a main character is a mostly fun character to champion. By the half way point his mannerisms (always pinching the bridge of his nose or fussing) and his 'ach' exclamations are referenced so frequently that this character doesn't seem to be existing in any other way except to hang his head, play with his face and make noise. He also has the emotional maturity of a 10 year old boy, so that would be the major drawback. If you're going to write fiction, why can't we be writing healthy, developed men that don't require women to come along and teach them how to handle and express their emotions...? Like, bare minimum requirement stuff here. Hard in this day and age to keep getting behind these emotionally stunted leads.

That being said, I also had a hard time believing the love story, and would accuse main character Avelina of the same eye rolling naivety that has played out too long now in these genres. Avelina is such a waspish, incoherent, frequently startled poor wisp of a woman... I just couldn't be convinced to back these two as functioning adults, let alone lovers.

The poor thing is a bit of a hot mess stubbing (breaking?!?) toes, pouring wax on her hands, jumping at anything and everything. Her go to in any given situation is either to become helpless, or sit up straight with poise and be a princess.... like quietly suffering letting whatever comes her way just happen to her. It felt false to present her as some heroic capable woman, she simply isn't. We have characters that don't do much more than look at her and are suddenly taken with her, bending over backwards to do anything capable to bed her/ wed her/ protect her/ abuse her.... It was too much for me. If she had a personality and some spark to her I could've gotten behind her more.

Avelina didn't imprint on me at all to the point I worried for the characters intellectual ability. The extent of her plan to run away, twice, is to have a realization she should run away and then.... make no other planning, prep or lay any kind of realistic groundwork. Did not like having a female lead requiring constant saving by men, and because of that did not believe any lip service from other characters about her resilience and strength. Just a bit too green for me that made it feel uncomfortable at the idea of her entering any type of sexual relationship. Like very uncomfortable.

To me Matthias and Avelina were both too emotionally immature to believe it was some soulmate level love. It was also hard to get behind when other characters did an immediate about face, and contrary to their actions at that point, just changed behavior on behalf of Matthias or Avelina's "love". (Specifically looking at you Jousting/Tournament scene...)

I am interested in where Book #2 goes, as I felt the time spent traversing the mountains were the more enjoyable parts of the novel, the Metzlingen location in particular. So that would be the thing to draw me back in. The relationship between the brothers was nice enough. Good to see a healthy reflection there. However, just really disliking Avelina for all the tropes she displayed that have been overused in fantasy and historical fiction. So diving into book two may be too big of an ask.

[J. Else · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Take their words, labels, expectations, and find a way to define them on your own terms.”

15th-century Germany. A man trying to bury his name. A princess trying to define hers. Both longing to stop being pawns in another man’s game. Matthias, known as The King’s Sword, is sent to barter for a princess’s hand. However, another man plots to take her title by force and seeks to kill Princess Avelina. On the run, Matthias and Avelina must traverse mountains in hopes of losing their pursuers on their journey to Ewigsburg. What they find along the way makes them question their purpose in life, and how far they’ll go and what they’ll sacrifice for love.

I’ve noticed an increase in women in historical fiction running away to escape their circumstances. However, they never plan further than the escape. Instead of lending a sense of independence and agency, the characters come across as naïve. Avelina gets this idea in her head twice, only to have a man rescue/stop her. Additionally, Avelina keeps injuring herself (spilling candle wax on her hand, stubbing her toes and needing her feet massaged, etc.). After so many injuries, it felt like an overused device to bring Matthias and Avelina together.

Alternating between Matthias and Avelina’s points of view, The King’s Sword is a sweeping adventure nestled within Renaissance Germany. From castles to farmland, the sights are breathtaking. Simmers has penned a spectacular landscape along with great characters. I thoroughly enjoyed their internal struggles and discoveries. Simmers makes the depth of her research appear effortless as her story comes to life. Despite some minor issues in Avelina’s early development, the story satisfies on many levels. Simmers’ prose is luscious and the character development enchanting. I look forward to what else Simmers has in store for readers.

Review originally published via the Historical Novel Society at: https://historicalnovelsociety.org/re...

[Esme Yona · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a jewel of a book. I Loved this so much.
Written by a friend of mine, I couldn’t wait to get into it once published and once I started it, found it difficult to put down.
It’s A wonderful historical romance based in Germany of the 15th century which gave me an insight to the history of that era in a part of Europe that was unbeknown to me until now.
Loved the chemistry between Avelina and Mathias. Kept on imagining how they’d look like if the book were to be made into a film, which I surely hope will happen.
Also loved how their relationship grew throughout the book. Can’t wait to read more about them in the next one 🙏

[Alana White · Rating 5 out of 5]

1479 Germany. I thoroughly enjoyed this journey made by baseborn soldier Matthias and Princess Avelina, who are thrown together when he is entrusted to retrieve her for his king, who wants her for his bride. If Matthias succeeds, he will have a second chance at a better life for himself and his brothers. One of the many pleasures of this book for me is its setting-I've not read any other books set in Germany at the same time the Renaissance is happening in Italy, particularly in Florence (my focus as an author), and so I found it as enlightening as it is entertaining. This is the first book in this series, and I definitely am looking forward to the next.

[LB · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can’t put it down!

This book is a real page turner. It kept me up way past my bedtime because I was so engaged in the story. Rebekah does an amazing job creating vivid scenery and dynamic believable characters. I can’t wait until the second book comes out and to see what adventures are to come. Highly recommend!

[Hollie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having binge watched reign this past year, this book was right up my alley. It's a historical romance set in medieval Germany with very likable characters. It's a super fast read with some closure at the end but enough uncertainty to want to read the next book. Bonus is the book cover isn't super tacky so you can read it in public!

[Ronnie Pastecki · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delightful novel! The characters are finely drawn and the action keeps the story moving along. It was easy to become immersed in the tale of Princess Avelina and her low-born champion, Matthias. The only negative is that the next two installments of the Metzlingen Saga have not yet been published. I can't wait to see what new challenges these lovers encounter.

[Malacima]

3,5 stars