Knightess

Swords of Resilience #1

by J.A. Stein

Sir Alec Earnblaec has discovered Ella’s secret. She isn’t a commoner as she so pretends. Her name isn’t even Ella. She is Lady Eleanor de Levan, wife of the disreputable Sir Lezay, and he wants her back. Fortunately, or perhaps unfortunately for Eleanor, Alec has his own agenda, which includes her. Together, they weave a delicate charade that forces Eleanor to question how much her secret is worth. To answer that, she has to face her past in all its ugliness. It takes courage and skills she long ago buried, but the woman that emerges is not the timid maid Alec discovered.

She is a Knightess.

As Eleanor fights to retake her own identity, she must face her abusive husband, her manipulative uncle, and a childhood love that shakes her resolve. All the while, Alec stands at her side, both raising her up and tearing her down, uncertain of what to make of this complicated woman that he’s taken into his life. Does she have the strength it takes to face her past? Will she escape the hold Alec has laid over her? Does she even want to? And for all the courage she must find, will she find the courage to love?

Follow Eleanor’s epic journey to knighthood, freedom, and love in this unpredictable tale of a woman who fights her way to strength and independence.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction

480 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 1, 2022

About the author

When J.A. Stein isn't dreaming up stories of centuries past, you can find her training horses like those in her stories. Or perhaps you won't find her at all, as she frequently disappears into America's stunning wilderness to chase adventure. She loves to read anything with a plot and makes it a goal to write stories that can't be put down.

Reviews are greatly appreciated!

Please subscribe to the quarterly newsletter for this series, Tournament Whispers, for bonus chapters, upcoming events, writing tips, and more. http://www.authorjastein.wordpress.com... look under the Contact tab.

Reviews

[Renea L Kline · Rating 5 out of 5]

Different kind of story

I really enjoyed this book with its twist s and turns in the plot. Ella was a force to be reckon ed with, and Alex was the man that she needed by her side. Lots of action and intrigue to the end. I highly recommend this book. Well written and a hard book to put down.

[Connie Glunz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast moving, unpredictable, page turner which I could not put down. Engaging from the first chapter. Knightess puts into artistic well spoken language, the struggle to be seen, recognized and loved , for whom one is meant to be. Romantic love is “heartpoundingly” exposed for all of it’s struggles and beauty, without crossing lines of unnecessary detail. It is simply, the most entertaining and thought provoking book I have read in a long while. Can not wait for book #2 in this saga!!

[Amy Ramsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love medieval historical fiction and excited that this book had a strong heroine versus a damsel in distress. A great saga!

[SLB · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Knightess is a thoroughly delightful read from beginning to end, full of surprises and a bit steamy as well. Open the windows! and Enjoy! Awaiting the next book in the series.

[Rita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely an enjoyable read.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Could not put it down ! I will remember Eleanor for a long time. Her strength, and tenacity is inspiring! A wonderful love story amongst all of the challenges she faces. My first time reading about medieval times and I found it very intriguing! Can’t wait for the next one!

[Janet Griffith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dysfunctional Family

A look into life and times of middevil tournaments. A twisted tale of fear and challenge. Can someone come through all the trauma of a difficult life?

[Ladell · Rating 4 out of 5]

historical fiction

Interesting premise; a female knight. But there was entirely too much graphic sex. I would have enjoyed it more and have been more likely to recommend it if the sex talk had been more muted.

[Colleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

More fiction than history,

this is still a good story. It seems rather outlandish that women could fight in this manner, but apparently they did. I enjoyed the reading. Characters are well-developed. Events kept my attention. All in all, I’d say it was worth the reading.

[Dean Conrad · Rating 5 out of 5]

A true good read. Wonderfully drawn characters. The tension mounts throughout the book. A great look at life in the middle ages, tournaments and the life of nobles.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. This book follows Eleanor as she fights for freedom, love, and her home. I loved the pace of the book and how each of the characters grew. With the fantastic representation of medieval England, I found myself transported to the time period and wishing I could be a part of the book. I hope that I get to read more about these characters and their world in the future!

[Ethan Fahie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A rich, burning journey, Stein balances drama with action and yearning between souls who are trapped in their own unique circumstances. Knightess displays complex characters that the reader can truly invest in, and difficult romance that leaves the reader longing for more, even between the lines of text.

My partner gifted me this book after meeting the author at a book signing, and I cannot wait to read Lady of the Tournament.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A perfect blend of history and fiction set in the Middle Ages. Plenty of action, a bit of romance and plenty of intrigue.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent!! Be sure to read the entire series.