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Marieke and the boys from Saint Sebastian’s are back! And they’re in for one tough winter …
When 15-year-old Marieke wakes up with a blinding headache and an arrow in her chest, only one thing is certain: she’s a girl again, and one who’s now deeply indebted to her beloved Tristan’s bitter rival Taran.
Marieke Verbeke has miraculously survived through the first year of Journeyman trials at the all-male archers’ guild of Saint Sebastian, the premier institution of Ardennes and the very place which must house her father’s brutal killers. Disguised as a boy and serving as a squire, against all odds she even helped the dashing young Journeyman Tristan win the honors robbed from her own father: permanent guild membership and veteran status. But she’s no closer to finding out the truth about her father’s past or to bringing his murderers to justice, and she lost her own chance to stand for Journey when she missed the apprentice trials. To make matters worse, she can’t shake the feeling that the half-remembered words of a delirious dream are trying to tell her something – it’s a warning, and in it, Tristan is in danger.
Marieke made a vow to see Tristan become the prince’s next Guardsman, without ever letting him find out she’s a girl who loves him. To see her oath through to the end, she’s going to have to decipher her dream’s message — even if that means wintering with the boys at Brecelyn’s castle, where she’ll have to watch both Tristan and Taran chasing after the beautiful Melissande at close quarters. She also knows she can’t stay away from the guild forever, even though it will mean antagonizing Taran. With Tristan surely now in last place in the competition rankings, time is running out for Marieke to find a way for him to win — and to take an unexpected second chance to make her own mark on Saint Sebastian’s.
All of this would be enough, but the year is 1347. With the Black Death sweeping through northern Europe, figuring out how to save Tristan from elimination while navigating a treacherous relationship with his arch-rival is soon to be the least of Marieke’s problems.
The saga of Marieke continues in this second installment of the Archers of Saint Sebastian series, the story of a girl in disguise in an all-male archers’ guild in 14th-century Belgium. For fans of Robin Hood, Mulan, Twelfth Night, and Princess Bride, Squires is a light-hearted historical adventure with all the action and humor of and twice the romance!
When 15-year-old Marieke wakes up with a blinding headache and an arrow in her chest, only one thing is certain: she’s a girl again, and one who’s now deeply indebted to her beloved Tristan’s bitter rival Taran.
Marieke Verbeke has miraculously survived through the first year of Journeyman trials at the all-male archers’ guild of Saint Sebastian, the premier institution of Ardennes and the very place which must house her father’s brutal killers. Disguised as a boy and serving as a squire, against all odds she even helped the dashing young Journeyman Tristan win the honors robbed from her own father: permanent guild membership and veteran status. But she’s no closer to finding out the truth about her father’s past or to bringing his murderers to justice, and she lost her own chance to stand for Journey when she missed the apprentice trials. To make matters worse, she can’t shake the feeling that the half-remembered words of a delirious dream are trying to tell her something – it’s a warning, and in it, Tristan is in danger.
Marieke made a vow to see Tristan become the prince’s next Guardsman, without ever letting him find out she’s a girl who loves him. To see her oath through to the end, she’s going to have to decipher her dream’s message — even if that means wintering with the boys at Brecelyn’s castle, where she’ll have to watch both Tristan and Taran chasing after the beautiful Melissande at close quarters. She also knows she can’t stay away from the guild forever, even though it will mean antagonizing Taran. With Tristan surely now in last place in the competition rankings, time is running out for Marieke to find a way for him to win — and to take an unexpected second chance to make her own mark on Saint Sebastian’s.
All of this would be enough, but the year is 1347. With the Black Death sweeping through northern Europe, figuring out how to save Tristan from elimination while navigating a treacherous relationship with his arch-rival is soon to be the least of Marieke’s problems.
The saga of Marieke continues in this second installment of the Archers of Saint Sebastian series, the story of a girl in disguise in an all-male archers’ guild in 14th-century Belgium. For fans of Robin Hood, Mulan, Twelfth Night, and Princess Bride, Squires is a light-hearted historical adventure with all the action and humor of and twice the romance!
652 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 9, 2022
56 people are currently reading
66 people want to read
About the author
Jeanne Roland
6 books94 followersRoland hails from Davis, California, where she spent most of her youth lounging at the pool, soaking up the sun, and daydreaming. She had a key ring that read 'I’m running away to join the circus,' and her favorite moment of the day was when the local movie theater went dark, and the slogan 'escape to the movies' appeared on the screen. As an adult, her passions include all things melodramatic and beautiful — everything from classic movies, British romantic poetry, ancient tragedy and epic, to Italian opera. She is now a professor of Classics in a small midwestern town, where she lives with her Greek husband, her fraternal twins, and a Bernese mountain dog named Franco Corelli.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
September 11, 2022
I have been waiting almost a year for the release of Squires, the second installment of The Archers of Saint Sebastian, and it didn’t disappoint! The developing relationship between Taran and Marieke, the dynamic characters (Falko still remains a favorite), and the delightfully surprising inclusion of The Plague make this sequel a binge-worthy, one-sitting read. Get comfortable; you won’t be able to put this book down. Roland’s best yet!
September 11, 2022
Bring on the intrigue!
Wow! I was blown away by Journey's, and very excited to read Squire's! Jeanne Roland did not disappoint in the second book of this series. I love the heroine Marek/Marieke and you can see her struggles of trying to figure out who she is, and finding her self worth. Ms. Roland gives us a glimpse of what it might of been like to be a young woman during the 14th century. There are many twists and turns in this book that keeps things exciting. I'm rooting for our heroine, and am looking forward to the third book Master's! Thank you for sharing your world with us Ms. Roland! Prost!
Wow! I was blown away by Journey's, and very excited to read Squire's! Jeanne Roland did not disappoint in the second book of this series. I love the heroine Marek/Marieke and you can see her struggles of trying to figure out who she is, and finding her self worth. Ms. Roland gives us a glimpse of what it might of been like to be a young woman during the 14th century. There are many twists and turns in this book that keeps things exciting. I'm rooting for our heroine, and am looking forward to the third book Master's! Thank you for sharing your world with us Ms. Roland! Prost!
September 12, 2022
More of the Archers we Love
From page 1, Squires does not stop. I found myself growing to love each of the Archers’ personalities even more in this book, as the plot quickly carried them through some incredible highs and lows. Marieke is still not the most astute, but somehow Roland makes it believable and endearing instead of exasperating.
Roland’s world building is so subtle and believable, many times I felt like I was eavesdropping on the guild—to my embarrassment, my heartache, and laugh-out-loud delight.
From page 1, Squires does not stop. I found myself growing to love each of the Archers’ personalities even more in this book, as the plot quickly carried them through some incredible highs and lows. Marieke is still not the most astute, but somehow Roland makes it believable and endearing instead of exasperating.
Roland’s world building is so subtle and believable, many times I felt like I was eavesdropping on the guild—to my embarrassment, my heartache, and laugh-out-loud delight.
September 19, 2022
I'm hooked to this series
I just finished book 2 in this series and I'll have to read it again right away so I don't experience a severe withdrawal, to say I'm looking forward to Masters (book 3) it's a total understatement
I just finished book 2 in this series and I'll have to read it again right away so I don't experience a severe withdrawal, to say I'm looking forward to Masters (book 3) it's a total understatement
June 3, 2025
I am in love with this series.
So, Taran. TARAN. TARAN. I could scream it from the rooftops.
So, Taran. TARAN. TARAN. I could scream it from the rooftops.
October 12, 2022
After loving the first book, I was so excited to see the sequel was out, and it did not disappoint. This book was genuinely bad for my health. I would sit down to read it, say “just one chapter” and look up four hours later surprised to see the sun setting. Even when I wasn’t reading it, I was thinking about when I could open it back up. And as soon as I finished it, I wanted to turn it over and start again. I truly don’t understand how Roland manages to write a story so rich and immersive that every character feels like an old friend. Though the competition takes a back seat in this book, there’s still plenty of archery, and this time it’s the squires who get to shine as they prepare for and put on a spectacular show. The romantic tensions between Taran, Tristan, Melissande, and Marieke only grow in this book, and they are as fun as they are infuriating. I’ve never seen anybody as bad at communicating as Taran and as good at misinterpreting as Marieke, and I loved every second of it. Also, I cannot believe that I, #1 Taran hater, came to really like him in this book. So hats off to you, Roland. I didn’t think it was possible. I mean, he’s still no Gilles, but who is?
September 20, 2022
Jeanne Roland - she did it! She DID it!! This book, the sequel to the equally riveting "Journeys", was everything one could have hoped for - I laughed, and I cried, and I bit all my nails down to nothing in suspense, only to repeat it all again and again until the last sentence was read (at 3:40 am) and I had to reorient myself back into my "real" life. Also, the ending was truly a brilliant move and now I look forward to all the ups and downs and inbetweens that are sure to come in the following books. I also have to express my sincere admiration for the author's "steamy" scenes - nothing vulgar, nothing lude, just pure, hot passion and desire, written with a pen on fire, I can not think of another author worthy of comparisson, and I have read more romance garbage than I'm comfortable admiting to. I am very much looking forward to reading her next book "Masters", to be published, I hope, soon.
September 21, 2022
This is my favorite series to date. I love this author, the books, the characters, and I’m once again on the edge of my seat waiting on the third book. I whipped through this 800+ page book so fast. I read anytime I had a free hand to hold my kindle while I multitasked doing a number of other things. I just had to know what happened next at every turn. This book is so good; it’s immersive, creative, well thought out and I often imagined myself as the main character Marieke and I have no clue how I’d react in her shoes. Every time I thought that I could predict what happened next, I was proven wrong time and time again. I’m sad because now whatever book I read next, I know won’t come close to this book but I shall persevere! Can’t wait for Masters!
September 19, 2022
After reading Jeanne Roland's second book, it's clear to me that five stars is definitely not enough to rate this epic saga. Marieke's interactions with the squires and journeys proved her cleverness and her compassion toward others. This story was extremely entertaining with non-stop action and surprises when least expected. I thought this was an amazing book and I can't wait to read more about Marieke and the young men of Saint Sebastians. Very Well Written and Such a Good Read!!!!!....etc.....
September 20, 2022
Well worth the wait, and glad the wait was only about 3 months for me. I really like the characters, plot, and world building. The many characters have interesting personalities and complicated relationships. Some of the many relationships are too complicated for me (and reflect in my stars), even when it is evident that the complications and lack of clarity regarding the plot may ultimately prove most intriguing. The plot advances very slowly, and to this point, St Sebastian remains very insulated from the outside world, which will obviously change - too much pressure from the French and English - this is certainly on the horizon along with the after effects of the plaque.
September 16, 2022
Historical Fiction at its Best
I have loved following the journey of Marieke through the first two books. I await patiently the third book in the series.
I have loved following the journey of Marieke through the first two books. I await patiently the third book in the series.
February 17, 2025
Feb 2025 reread update:
This book has a very necessary place in the series, with a lot of personal growth for Marieke. Unfortunately, that growth comes through various trials, and those trials give a more melancholy tone to the book, which I don't enjoy reading as much. Still a good book, but not my favorite in the series. The main benefit to re-read was recognizing various clues along the way.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Original review:
Mixed feelings on this book.
First, the book was very well written, great storytelling, and an absolutely addictive read. Now that half the Journeys have been eliminated, you might expect the plot to become more dull, but since it's the most vivid characters left, that's never in danger of happening. Gilles in particular was a standout character to me in this book - always there when and where you need him, and remarkably perceptive.
However, it wasn't quite as light of a read as I generally prefer. The heavy focus on the various relationships wasn't really my favorite, and it led to more introspection than I prefer in my novels. Sometimes Marieke's naiveté was charming, but generally her obtuseness in this book was overwhelmingly frustrating. And also, like Tristan, I prefer comedy over tragedy, and the tragedies in this book began to stack up.
Despite all that, I still enjoyed reading the book. There's a lot of youthful optimism and irrepressibly high spirits to balance the tragedies. I did sometimes feel though, that Taran was the only adult among these boys. Surely he's actually 10 years older than Tristan, they couldn't possibly be the same age, could they?
Overall: Really good. Rating dropped primarily due to my personal preferences rather than any inherent flaws in the book.
This book has a very necessary place in the series, with a lot of personal growth for Marieke. Unfortunately, that growth comes through various trials, and those trials give a more melancholy tone to the book, which I don't enjoy reading as much. Still a good book, but not my favorite in the series. The main benefit to re-read was recognizing various clues along the way.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Original review:
Mixed feelings on this book.
First, the book was very well written, great storytelling, and an absolutely addictive read. Now that half the Journeys have been eliminated, you might expect the plot to become more dull, but since it's the most vivid characters left, that's never in danger of happening. Gilles in particular was a standout character to me in this book - always there when and where you need him, and remarkably perceptive.
However, it wasn't quite as light of a read as I generally prefer. The heavy focus on the various relationships wasn't really my favorite, and it led to more introspection than I prefer in my novels. Sometimes Marieke's naiveté was charming, but generally her obtuseness in this book was overwhelmingly frustrating. And also, like Tristan, I prefer comedy over tragedy, and the tragedies in this book began to stack up.
Despite all that, I still enjoyed reading the book. There's a lot of youthful optimism and irrepressibly high spirits to balance the tragedies. I did sometimes feel though, that Taran was the only adult among these boys. Surely he's actually 10 years older than Tristan, they couldn't possibly be the same age, could they?
Overall: Really good. Rating dropped primarily due to my personal preferences rather than any inherent flaws in the book.
December 28, 2022
There are a lot of good things going for Squires. The mystery, the characters, character development, and camaraderie are great. However, I skimmed a lot. I think it could be edited down some. There was too much inner dialog. The heroine was constantly making wrong assumptions and not looking at the actual facts, or not looking at events different angles which became frustrating. Marieke was annoyingly obtuse at times. Taran as as well, but less so. It was more understandable in book one, but the characters should have learned to read people a little better in this one. Even with it's flaws, it's strangely addicting. I still want to know what happens to the St. Sebastien's archers and the rest of the side characters. For the next installment, I will hope for some emotional growth, maturity, less miscommunication and misconceptions.
March 25, 2024
It is SO difficult to write a review with NO spoilers when the book is chock-full of adventure and twists!
I CAN safely say that "Marieke Verbeke has miraculously survived through the first year of Journeyman trials..." because it is in the blurb. So...
First of all, I find this book to be frustrating in the BEST way! By that, I mean it's one of those tales that is highly unpredictable. I read along, thinking I was so brilliant, that I had it all figured out. Alas (and I should have known better, having read "Journeys"), I was wrong. Every time. And I enjoy that factor in a book: the not knowing what's going to happen. The events, the teasing of the story breadcrumb trail that all SEEM to be heading where I think they are! But it only SEEMS that way.
In the first installment "Journeys", I had begun to have a favorite romantic character. That, in itself, was quite the thing as there is a generous cast of beautiful males, all generously gifted with not only good looks but all very distinct personalities.
In "Squires", though, I found myself growing more and more fond of a character...may I say it?...Taran! I'd warmed to him in the first book, but in "Squires", Roland allows us more of a glimpse into WHO Taran is, what Marieke is sure makes him tick. And, thanks to the gorgeous prose and lovely character development, the reader is able to 'relate' to the handsome archers and---just like in real life---find themselves leaning toward the one who appeals most to them.
Like I said, they are all unique, gloriously individual, and a reader can't resist them. Which, of course, makes us envy Marieke for being in the big middle of this gorgeous cast of characters; but, then, makes us feel sorry that she IS among this fabulous array of males...as she is posing as a boy herself and is helpless to only be able to appreciate and work side-by-side them. As a friend.
"Squires" is both a happy, fun adventure mixed with some much more serious issues that took place during this historical time. The Plague, for one. I appreciated the author's up-close-and-personal telling of this horrible event that has reached the land and threatens Saint Sebastian's. She was gentle and yet honest and brutal in writing of the fear, the ravaging of this horrible disease's spread, the humanity of it all: panic, anger, mania, violence and, most of all...loss.
Romantic threads are beginning to weave for Marieke, even more in-depth than in "Journeys." With those threads is the arrival of uncertainty for her. Choices to be made. Deep looks into her own soul, trying to discern what is love, what is loyalty, what is just attraction. And whether all of these are to be found in one man.
Decisions, huge, life-altering ones, are having to be made by other characters, too.
One thing I think I CAN reveal, that has kept me intrigued and anxious, is that Marieke begins an even more serious, often risky with its close proximity to danger, journey to find the story behind the death of her beloved father, Jan. In this installment, our heroine gets closer than ever to this truth. It's all so clear and yet so murky. But, either way, it is sure to be leading to danger. And I will admit. A bit of a nail-biter for this reader, following Marieke and Tristan (who is aiding her as well as hunting for his own truths) as they inch nearer to the actual seat of threat.
So much more could be said: plot, so many fabulous, colorful characters, adventures, fun as well as intrigue, love and danger. But you'll have to take my word for it, my recommendation.
"Squires" is every bit as rousing, sweet, dark, sexy, vivid, wildly colorful and as full of pageantry as "Journeys."
Continue the journey!
I CAN safely say that "Marieke Verbeke has miraculously survived through the first year of Journeyman trials..." because it is in the blurb. So...
First of all, I find this book to be frustrating in the BEST way! By that, I mean it's one of those tales that is highly unpredictable. I read along, thinking I was so brilliant, that I had it all figured out. Alas (and I should have known better, having read "Journeys"), I was wrong. Every time. And I enjoy that factor in a book: the not knowing what's going to happen. The events, the teasing of the story breadcrumb trail that all SEEM to be heading where I think they are! But it only SEEMS that way.
In the first installment "Journeys", I had begun to have a favorite romantic character. That, in itself, was quite the thing as there is a generous cast of beautiful males, all generously gifted with not only good looks but all very distinct personalities.
In "Squires", though, I found myself growing more and more fond of a character...may I say it?...Taran! I'd warmed to him in the first book, but in "Squires", Roland allows us more of a glimpse into WHO Taran is, what Marieke is sure makes him tick. And, thanks to the gorgeous prose and lovely character development, the reader is able to 'relate' to the handsome archers and---just like in real life---find themselves leaning toward the one who appeals most to them.
Like I said, they are all unique, gloriously individual, and a reader can't resist them. Which, of course, makes us envy Marieke for being in the big middle of this gorgeous cast of characters; but, then, makes us feel sorry that she IS among this fabulous array of males...as she is posing as a boy herself and is helpless to only be able to appreciate and work side-by-side them. As a friend.
"Squires" is both a happy, fun adventure mixed with some much more serious issues that took place during this historical time. The Plague, for one. I appreciated the author's up-close-and-personal telling of this horrible event that has reached the land and threatens Saint Sebastian's. She was gentle and yet honest and brutal in writing of the fear, the ravaging of this horrible disease's spread, the humanity of it all: panic, anger, mania, violence and, most of all...loss.
Romantic threads are beginning to weave for Marieke, even more in-depth than in "Journeys." With those threads is the arrival of uncertainty for her. Choices to be made. Deep looks into her own soul, trying to discern what is love, what is loyalty, what is just attraction. And whether all of these are to be found in one man.
Decisions, huge, life-altering ones, are having to be made by other characters, too.
One thing I think I CAN reveal, that has kept me intrigued and anxious, is that Marieke begins an even more serious, often risky with its close proximity to danger, journey to find the story behind the death of her beloved father, Jan. In this installment, our heroine gets closer than ever to this truth. It's all so clear and yet so murky. But, either way, it is sure to be leading to danger. And I will admit. A bit of a nail-biter for this reader, following Marieke and Tristan (who is aiding her as well as hunting for his own truths) as they inch nearer to the actual seat of threat.
So much more could be said: plot, so many fabulous, colorful characters, adventures, fun as well as intrigue, love and danger. But you'll have to take my word for it, my recommendation.
"Squires" is every bit as rousing, sweet, dark, sexy, vivid, wildly colorful and as full of pageantry as "Journeys."
Continue the journey!
September 19, 2022
When an author writes a book you love, then writes a sequel you love even more, it’s impressive and the stuff of fandom. Such is the case with author Jeanne Roland’s book, “Squires”—the second in her Archers of Saint Sebastian series.
As with “Journeys,” the first book in the series, and the author’s debut novel, this finely crafted novel takes us to 1400s Northern Europe in the Ardennes region. The central character is a 16- year-old girl named Marieke Verbeke and the setting unfolds largely at the Saint Sebastian’s Archery Guild. You won’t meet her as Marieke, but rather as Marek because she is living as boy in her role as squire to Tristan Dubois, one of the celebrated Journeys—the best young archers of the province. Her backstory is complex but as a highlight let me say she’s been disfigured by the kick of a mule to her face and her father was once a great archer at the guild. When she lost him in a tragic manner and her life is danger, Marieke flees to the guild. No women are allowed into its hallowed halls, so she adopts a male persona and, through a quirk of fate, is taken on as a Squire by Dubois—a talented but impetuous Journey.
Thus begins an extraordinary adventure for Marieke as she lives and works in the midst of a pack of handsome boys not much older than herself while taking extreme measures to conceal her true gender and identity. This well-plotted storyline starts in “Journeys” and picks up seamlessly in “Squires.”
Competition for earning rank within the vaunted guild between and among the Journeys, and even their Squires, is a continual thread through both novels. I thought the stakes were high in Journeys. They soar and sweep in Squires.
With her series, Author Roland has built an immersive medieval world as well as as cast of engaging, highly individualistic characters. I found myself becoming attached to, amused by, worried for, and even afraid of some of them as the plot unfolds. Added to this is Roland’s deft hand as a writer—her flowing prose, enthralling descriptions, and crackling dialogue.
To avoid spoilers, I’ll only add the plot in both books holds mystery, intrigue, romance, and plenty of action. I didn’t know what was coming next most of the time and appreciated that. Each of the two books in the series can be read alone, but the best reading experience is to start with book 1, then go on to book 2. They are lengthy but the pages flew by for me and I believe they will for fans of historical fiction, the medieval period, the sport of archery, and to readers who enjoy being inside the intriguing mind and emotions of a young girl in the medieval period who is far ahead of her time in many ways, though still an innocent in other ways. More novels in this series are planned.
As with “Journeys,” the first book in the series, and the author’s debut novel, this finely crafted novel takes us to 1400s Northern Europe in the Ardennes region. The central character is a 16- year-old girl named Marieke Verbeke and the setting unfolds largely at the Saint Sebastian’s Archery Guild. You won’t meet her as Marieke, but rather as Marek because she is living as boy in her role as squire to Tristan Dubois, one of the celebrated Journeys—the best young archers of the province. Her backstory is complex but as a highlight let me say she’s been disfigured by the kick of a mule to her face and her father was once a great archer at the guild. When she lost him in a tragic manner and her life is danger, Marieke flees to the guild. No women are allowed into its hallowed halls, so she adopts a male persona and, through a quirk of fate, is taken on as a Squire by Dubois—a talented but impetuous Journey.
Thus begins an extraordinary adventure for Marieke as she lives and works in the midst of a pack of handsome boys not much older than herself while taking extreme measures to conceal her true gender and identity. This well-plotted storyline starts in “Journeys” and picks up seamlessly in “Squires.”
Competition for earning rank within the vaunted guild between and among the Journeys, and even their Squires, is a continual thread through both novels. I thought the stakes were high in Journeys. They soar and sweep in Squires.
With her series, Author Roland has built an immersive medieval world as well as as cast of engaging, highly individualistic characters. I found myself becoming attached to, amused by, worried for, and even afraid of some of them as the plot unfolds. Added to this is Roland’s deft hand as a writer—her flowing prose, enthralling descriptions, and crackling dialogue.
To avoid spoilers, I’ll only add the plot in both books holds mystery, intrigue, romance, and plenty of action. I didn’t know what was coming next most of the time and appreciated that. Each of the two books in the series can be read alone, but the best reading experience is to start with book 1, then go on to book 2. They are lengthy but the pages flew by for me and I believe they will for fans of historical fiction, the medieval period, the sport of archery, and to readers who enjoy being inside the intriguing mind and emotions of a young girl in the medieval period who is far ahead of her time in many ways, though still an innocent in other ways. More novels in this series are planned.
August 29, 2025
After being utterly captivated by Journeys, the first book in Jeanne Roland’s magnificent series, I did not believe it possible that she could surpass it - and yet I was mistaken. Squires, the second instalment, is, if anything even more compelling, and that is no small feat. Marieke Verbeke has endured a year disguised as a boy in order to enter the all-male guild of Saint Sebastian’s and pursue the truth of her father’s murder. She wrestles with her awakening desires for the young men around her, caught in the tangled web of lust and love. She has proved herself worthy to serve as one of the Journeymen’s squires, despite living in a world where her sex places her at a constant disadvantage. She has stood by the young Journeyman, Tristan throughout the competitions, even as she concealed her feelings for him. Now, after awakening from the brink of death, she returns once more to Saint Sebastian’s. But life within its walls grows ever more fraught, as her heart is torn between Tristan and his rival Taran, and yet she convinces herself she can never have either. Convinced that she is ugly, she must watch helplessly as both young men seem to fall under the spell of the same beautiful woman. At the same time, she presses forward in her dangerous investigation into her father’s murder, strives to secure apprentice status, and carefully navigates her relationships with her fellow Journeymen and Squires - all while maintaining the perilous pretence of being a boy. As if these trials were not enough, Marieke must also endure fire, trauma, unspeakable tragedy, and, most harrowing of all, the Black Death itself, which threatens to tear apart everything and everyone she has come to cherish. This series transcends mere storytelling - it is art. Jeanne Roland is a truly incredible author, whose writing pulls you inexorably into her world until you find yourself unable to put the book down. I’m living in this world and don’t want to leave. Utterly immersive, utterly brilliant. I truly can’t recommend this book - and this whole series - highly enough. A must read. You won’t regret it!
June 14, 2023
The sequel to Journey's picks up right where book 1 left off. Marieke must make a choice: return to St. Sebastian's as a boy or take the opportunity to resume her life as a girl.
Duh.
Marieke tries, but ultimately, she returns to the archery school to her fellow squires and Tristan, the charming, handsome master she can't help swooning over. But there's another boy she can't take her eyes off of, and her inner turmoil could cost more than her heart.
Meanwhile, the plague creeps into Ardennes, and between competitions, trials, romance, and heartbreak, not everyone will make it out alive.
I love this series! I'm a sucker for the "girl disguises as a boy" trope. The historical detail is perfect and the characters each so endearing and well fleshed out. My heart broke for Marieke over and over. I alternated between tense, hopeful, and disappointed (in a good way) the whole book. I spent many nights staying up way past my bedtime to find out what happens next!
And that ending? I'm so annoyed book 3 isn't finished yet ;) I'll be waiting in nail-biting anticipation for its release!
Duh.
Marieke tries, but ultimately, she returns to the archery school to her fellow squires and Tristan, the charming, handsome master she can't help swooning over. But there's another boy she can't take her eyes off of, and her inner turmoil could cost more than her heart.
Meanwhile, the plague creeps into Ardennes, and between competitions, trials, romance, and heartbreak, not everyone will make it out alive.
I love this series! I'm a sucker for the "girl disguises as a boy" trope. The historical detail is perfect and the characters each so endearing and well fleshed out. My heart broke for Marieke over and over. I alternated between tense, hopeful, and disappointed (in a good way) the whole book. I spent many nights staying up way past my bedtime to find out what happens next!
And that ending? I'm so annoyed book 3 isn't finished yet ;) I'll be waiting in nail-biting anticipation for its release!
November 28, 2022
What the author has created with the first two novels in this series are pure masterpieces! I could not put the books down - I lost a goodly number of hours of sleep and cried rivers of tears through all the heartache but there were enough belly laughs to infuriate my husband when it woke him from HIS sleep!!
I keep finding myself thinking about what will happen next and running the different scenarios through my mind. I have dreamed of this series - I have even found myself having to reread entire chapters of my current book because I was too busy daydreaming about this series!
Jeanne has found eternal fan in me and I can not wait for the next installment and that I mourn the fact that it cannot simply be now. This book is up there with with the greats for me like the wheel of time series with the ability to get stuck in your brain. An absolute must read!!!
I keep finding myself thinking about what will happen next and running the different scenarios through my mind. I have dreamed of this series - I have even found myself having to reread entire chapters of my current book because I was too busy daydreaming about this series!
Jeanne has found eternal fan in me and I can not wait for the next installment and that I mourn the fact that it cannot simply be now. This book is up there with with the greats for me like the wheel of time series with the ability to get stuck in your brain. An absolute must read!!!
February 9, 2023
NOT THE END OF THE SERIES
Okay, so this is the second book in a series, and if you haven’t read the first, go back and do that NOW. Alright, you are back. This story is not my typical genre at all, but I was intrigued and decided to branch out and it was worth it. This has been one of my favorite books in a while. And I read a lot of them. This one is well crafted, staged, and executed. There are hints and signs and you can put a lot of it together but still know you are missing something. And generally you have put together more than the main character which is infuriating but in the fun way. There is action, romance, devotion, heroism - it’s a blast. Highly recommend.
The only problem is that I picked up this series before it was finished. I don’t know what I will do while I wait for the rest.
Okay, so this is the second book in a series, and if you haven’t read the first, go back and do that NOW. Alright, you are back. This story is not my typical genre at all, but I was intrigued and decided to branch out and it was worth it. This has been one of my favorite books in a while. And I read a lot of them. This one is well crafted, staged, and executed. There are hints and signs and you can put a lot of it together but still know you are missing something. And generally you have put together more than the main character which is infuriating but in the fun way. There is action, romance, devotion, heroism - it’s a blast. Highly recommend.
The only problem is that I picked up this series before it was finished. I don’t know what I will do while I wait for the rest.
September 15, 2022
Marieke and the boys are indeed back, with even more humor and romance and escapades!
This book clipped along, going from fabulous, hilarious scene to the next fabulous, hilarious scene.
Clear your schedule and warn your family members to fend for themselves, because this is such a fun, escapist read, you won’t be able to put it down until its exciting conclusion. I am putty in Jeanne Roland's hands. Whatever she wants to me feel, I feel. Whichever character she wants me to root for, I root for. Warning: only read in a place where you can openly laugh out loud and snort while clutching your sides.
This book clipped along, going from fabulous, hilarious scene to the next fabulous, hilarious scene.
Clear your schedule and warn your family members to fend for themselves, because this is such a fun, escapist read, you won’t be able to put it down until its exciting conclusion. I am putty in Jeanne Roland's hands. Whatever she wants to me feel, I feel. Whichever character she wants me to root for, I root for. Warning: only read in a place where you can openly laugh out loud and snort while clutching your sides.
October 17, 2024
Still couldn't stop reading, again despite the main character being super dense. Also, what happened to her archery?!
I noticed more in this book how the main character has weirdly flowery dialogue during stressful events, and the rest of the time is pretty modern and in line with everything else in the book.
I spent a good chunk of this book being mad at Taran, and then was waiting for a satisfying confrontation or comeuppance scene, but didn't get one. Boo!
It stinks that Tristan doesn't feel like a person anymore. He's just a surface collection of stuff, and I'm sad that I ended up dreading when he'd show up in the story, since I couldn't believe in their relationship.
I noticed more in this book how the main character has weirdly flowery dialogue during stressful events, and the rest of the time is pretty modern and in line with everything else in the book.
I spent a good chunk of this book being mad at Taran, and then was waiting for a satisfying confrontation or comeuppance scene, but didn't get one. Boo!
It stinks that Tristan doesn't feel like a person anymore. He's just a surface collection of stuff, and I'm sad that I ended up dreading when he'd show up in the story, since I couldn't believe in their relationship.
December 3, 2025
This series is riveting! The continuing story of the archers of St. Sebastian has captivated my imagination, and I am desperate to read the next book in the series!
The miscommunications, the action, and the circumstances surrounding the Journeys and squires feel so real! My heart pounded as I turned every page, biting my nails to see how the story would unfold!
I was on the edge of my seat throughout the book and continually wished I had more time in every day to get back to reading! Of course, the book ended on a cliffhanger, and I plan to add the remaining books to my Kindle as soon as possible!
Highly recommend!!
The miscommunications, the action, and the circumstances surrounding the Journeys and squires feel so real! My heart pounded as I turned every page, biting my nails to see how the story would unfold!
I was on the edge of my seat throughout the book and continually wished I had more time in every day to get back to reading! Of course, the book ended on a cliffhanger, and I plan to add the remaining books to my Kindle as soon as possible!
Highly recommend!!
January 6, 2023
So addicting, I couldn't put it down!
After binge-reading book 1, I immediately started on this one. I love being part of Marieke's adventure. This book was also an emotional rollercoaster. It made me laugh and cry, and the romance scenes kept me wanting to read more.
It was probably a bad idea reading it before work cuz after i finished the book, I was disoriented for a while and needed to get myself back to reality haha 😅
But anyways, I really enjoyed this and highly recommend it. I wish book 3 was out already 😭
After binge-reading book 1, I immediately started on this one. I love being part of Marieke's adventure. This book was also an emotional rollercoaster. It made me laugh and cry, and the romance scenes kept me wanting to read more.
It was probably a bad idea reading it before work cuz after i finished the book, I was disoriented for a while and needed to get myself back to reality haha 😅
But anyways, I really enjoyed this and highly recommend it. I wish book 3 was out already 😭
February 3, 2025
I was only able to read up to 86% of the book. The author seemed to be using Marie or Merrick‘s dismay of whether she wanted to be a boy or a girl. It was on and on and on about does Tristan love me? Does Taryn love me. Good grief I lost track of where the storyline was going if it was intended to go anywhere. The author just seem to be going on and on and on to add more pages to the book. Merrick was in bad need of psychiatric help. I believe the book could’ve been done in at least 1/3 of the pages if the author had kept up a storyline worth reading.
April 1, 2023
Wow, what a great follow-up to an excellent first book. The characters and their relationships continue to grow and change, and I was happy to see that Marieke and Taran's understanding of each other matured (at least until the end). The archery competitions take a backseat, but there is plenty of peril and drama, what with the plague, a fire, a generation-old mystery, and a manipulative future father-in-law. I'll be waiting with bated breath for the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2023
An intoxicating, addictive storyline…
Having read the first two books in this series, I am left with the inevitable feeling of impatience for the next. This thrilling storyline of passion, excitement and dark human nature is such a treat for the reader. Can’t wait for the next book!
Having read the first two books in this series, I am left with the inevitable feeling of impatience for the next. This thrilling storyline of passion, excitement and dark human nature is such a treat for the reader. Can’t wait for the next book!
November 8, 2023
So Good I’m Angry
This is a fantastic sequel, and I’m angry. I feel a lot like Marieke. Everything I thought I knew is wrong. The story is artfully done, and ends nothing like I expected it to, and the twists came out of nowhere and smacked me across the face. I’m probably going to stay angry until I can read Masters and find out what’s going to happen next.
This is a fantastic sequel, and I’m angry. I feel a lot like Marieke. Everything I thought I knew is wrong. The story is artfully done, and ends nothing like I expected it to, and the twists came out of nowhere and smacked me across the face. I’m probably going to stay angry until I can read Masters and find out what’s going to happen next.
January 13, 2025
As a sequel to Journeys, it did not disappoint. Action-packed and poignant. Ms Roland creates a medieval world alive with real-life problems of the time blended seamlessly with her creation of the world inhabited by her mythical creation of the archers of St. Sebastian.
I highly recommend this book!
I highly recommend this book!
January 5, 2026
If you’ve read Journeys then you know what to expect and the author does not disappoint. She draws you in to love the journeys and squires even more, Tristin, Faldo and of course Taran. Lots of action and emotion in this book but you feel for Marieke /Marek who isn’t good at working things out - especially when it comes to relationships.
Now I have to read the next book….
Now I have to read the next book….
May 20, 2023
Loved it
If you are a fan of tomboys, disguised, and medieval archery, then you will love this series. Well written with highs and lows and a story that will keep you guessing. One for fans of Tamora Pierce.
If you are a fan of tomboys, disguised, and medieval archery, then you will love this series. Well written with highs and lows and a story that will keep you guessing. One for fans of Tamora Pierce.
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