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The Conquest
Grieving over the deaths of her husband and infant son, Saxon widow Ailith finds solace with Norman warrior Rolf de Brize, but her new happiness is threatened by the arrival of Rolf's Norman wife and daughter and the knowledge that Rolf had been responsible for the deaths of her beloved brothers at the Battle of Hastings
458 pages, Hardcover
First published April 1, 1996
87 people are currently reading
2420 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Chadwick
48 books3,259 followersBest selling historical novelist Elizabeth Chadwick won a Betty Trask Award for her first novel The Wild Hunt. She has been shortlisted for the UK's mainstream Best Romantic Novel of the Year Award 4 times and longlisted twice. Her novel The Scarlet Lion about the great William Marshal and his wife Isabelle de Clare, has been selected by Richard Lee, founder of the Historical Novel Society as one of the landmark historical novels of the last ten years.
When not at her desk, she can be found taking long walks with the dog, baking cakes, reading books (of course!) exploring ruins, listening to various brands of rock and metal music, and occasionally slaving over a steaming cauldron with re-enactment society Regia Anglorum.
When not at her desk, she can be found taking long walks with the dog, baking cakes, reading books (of course!) exploring ruins, listening to various brands of rock and metal music, and occasionally slaving over a steaming cauldron with re-enactment society Regia Anglorum.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
July 9, 2022
Beginning in 1065 and ending in 1088 , this book covers the Norman Conquest and its devastating effect on a young Saxon wife Ailith who befriends a Norman wine merchant's wife, Felice at a time when hostility is growing towards Normans in England
Ailith's two bothers are killed in the Battle of Hastings, her infant son dies and her husband is killed at William the Conqueror's coronation.
She tries to commit suicide but is stopped by Rold de Brize, a Norman merchant, and is taken to be paramour of his holdings at Ulverton. Though he has a wife and child in Normandy
His daughter by Ailith Julitte and Felice's son Bendict who up together but when Rolf's amorous adventures drive Ailith away, tragedy ensues and the trial and tribulations of the next generation begin,
A well written book, quite compelling m which takes us from England of the Norman Conquest to Normandy and the Spain of El Cid
If you like historical fiction , with a lot of romance and are not averse to some remarkable coincidences in the story line, tis will be right up your alley
Ailith's two bothers are killed in the Battle of Hastings, her infant son dies and her husband is killed at William the Conqueror's coronation.
She tries to commit suicide but is stopped by Rold de Brize, a Norman merchant, and is taken to be paramour of his holdings at Ulverton. Though he has a wife and child in Normandy
His daughter by Ailith Julitte and Felice's son Bendict who up together but when Rolf's amorous adventures drive Ailith away, tragedy ensues and the trial and tribulations of the next generation begin,
A well written book, quite compelling m which takes us from England of the Norman Conquest to Normandy and the Spain of El Cid
If you like historical fiction , with a lot of romance and are not averse to some remarkable coincidences in the story line, tis will be right up your alley
November 11, 2021
The Conquest by Elizabeth Chadwick isn’t as riveting as her other novels and didn’t get me into a serious dose of book hangover and ‘fangirling’ as was the case with her William Marshal series (I consider it a good thing because it only means I truly enjoyed reading it), primarily because I had expected her chief characters to be actual historical figures. Perhaps, Chadwick thought Duke William of Normandy wasn’t charming a personality to portray, the same way that King John wasn’t probably the kind of historical icon she’d be wanting to grace the center stage to when she created fictional Alexander and Monday as lead characters in The Champion. At any rate, I've become really accustomed to the author’s writing style and laboriously-researched stories to ever pass up this read now.
This book is about love and second chances—and the premise that love can persevere even in the most tumultuous of times—with the Norman Conquest serving as the backdrop. While this is no bodice ripper novel, this is the first time I’ve read a Chadwick novel that devotes quite a number of pages to detailed intimacy. I've almost forgotten this was actually a Chadwick work if not for the book's meticulous portrayals of medieval life and customs, the battle in Hastings that ended the Saxon rule in England, and even the important attributes of a prized warhorse (which is central to the story since the protagonist Rolf de Brize is a horse breeder). She's indeed sent me off again to another magical tour of a bygone era with her plausible and creative description of life and love from that period (the 11th century), and I am truly impressed with the easy manner she could convey her characters’ emotions to the readers.
This book is about love and second chances—and the premise that love can persevere even in the most tumultuous of times—with the Norman Conquest serving as the backdrop. While this is no bodice ripper novel, this is the first time I’ve read a Chadwick novel that devotes quite a number of pages to detailed intimacy. I've almost forgotten this was actually a Chadwick work if not for the book's meticulous portrayals of medieval life and customs, the battle in Hastings that ended the Saxon rule in England, and even the important attributes of a prized warhorse (which is central to the story since the protagonist Rolf de Brize is a horse breeder). She's indeed sent me off again to another magical tour of a bygone era with her plausible and creative description of life and love from that period (the 11th century), and I am truly impressed with the easy manner she could convey her characters’ emotions to the readers.
January 21, 2009
Unputdownable! Is that a word? If not it should be, at least when describing this author's books. The Conquest is really two books in one, telling the story of two generations as it opens shortly before the Norman invasion of 1066. Saxon housewife Ailith loses her husband, brothers and new born child and attempts to take her own life, but is stopped by womanizing Norman knight Rolf de Brize. To avoid the romantic attentions of a London Goldsmith, Ailith accepts Rolf's offer to serve as chatelaine at his castle and (of course) love follows and they have a daughter Julitta. Eventually the relationship deteriorates, not helped by the fact that Rolf has a wife and daughter in Normandy.
The second half of the book tells the story of their daughter Julitta, reunited with her father after years of separation and she has to see her beloved Benedict marry her half sister who loves the church more than she loves her husband. Caught up in the revelries of a May Day celebration the actions of Julitta and Benedict have far reaching consequences on everyone's lives and.......
I'm not telling anymore, you have to read for yourself. Needless to say that once I picked the book up (and this is the second time around) I just could not put it down, and as with all of this author's books the way she brings the medieval period to life in such a graceful and effortless way, be it the sights, sounds, smells, food, clothes and battles is just awesome. Although her books are becoming rare and hard to find in the US they are readily available through UK and Canada and well worth the cost and effort to do so. Five stars.
The second half of the book tells the story of their daughter Julitta, reunited with her father after years of separation and she has to see her beloved Benedict marry her half sister who loves the church more than she loves her husband. Caught up in the revelries of a May Day celebration the actions of Julitta and Benedict have far reaching consequences on everyone's lives and.......
I'm not telling anymore, you have to read for yourself. Needless to say that once I picked the book up (and this is the second time around) I just could not put it down, and as with all of this author's books the way she brings the medieval period to life in such a graceful and effortless way, be it the sights, sounds, smells, food, clothes and battles is just awesome. Although her books are becoming rare and hard to find in the US they are readily available through UK and Canada and well worth the cost and effort to do so. Five stars.
July 17, 2009
This is very well-written story of the conquest of England by the Normans in 1066, and the impact it has upon two families, one Saxon, one Norman. Like all of Elizabeth's novels, it is meticulously researched. It has two passionate love stories, a solid grounding in the politics of the era, and a vivid depiction of the Battle of Hastings. I would definitely recommend it.
April 30, 2012
Historical fiction has always been my cup of tea and THE CONQUEST by Elizabeth Chadwick is no different. It has all the elements that are sure to make a good historical novel and such vivid and accurate descriptions you can be sure that the author has done her homework before writing this book. I find it very difficult to imagine a era as old as 1066,let alone write about it and to write about such an era with such disarming accuracy is unnerving. Kudos!! to the author for delivering a nice dose of history to its readers without boring them out of there minds as some authors do. For a person who never before had any experience with horses I found myself very much interested in the horse trades going on at that time. The book got me interested in that part of English history which I did not have much experience but that to with a wonderful story backing it. The story takes us through two generations of women. It begins with Allith a young Saxon wife who has lost everything in the tides of change and finding comfort in the support of a married Norman horse trader Rolf. Eventually she falls in love with him and their story takes over the first part. The next part of the story is the story of their daughter Juillita, her love for her childhood friend Benedict, who is betrothed to her half sister Giselle. Her standing aside as she watches her true love get married to her half sister Giselle who loves God more than her husband. Her own marriage to her father's overseer's son. All these going on in the backdrop of a fight for power makes for an interesting story.
The only issue I had with the book was towards the end. For a person who considers predictability a sin in fiction I couldn't accept the authors intention to bring about a happy ending at the expense of characters whom I thought had much more potential. Instead of following the frequent path the author could have given the characters space to grow and mature to follow a different path other that what is expected of them. For most part the book is engaging, lacking its initial enthusiasm towards the end. But this flaw does not seem to do much damage in the overall scenario. Those interested in historical fiction should not let this one go
The only issue I had with the book was towards the end. For a person who considers predictability a sin in fiction I couldn't accept the authors intention to bring about a happy ending at the expense of characters whom I thought had much more potential. Instead of following the frequent path the author could have given the characters space to grow and mature to follow a different path other that what is expected of them. For most part the book is engaging, lacking its initial enthusiasm towards the end. But this flaw does not seem to do much damage in the overall scenario. Those interested in historical fiction should not let this one go
November 7, 2022
Another great historical fiction by Elizabeth Chadwick. She is a master.
This one is one of these that have stories about two generations. Some errors of the previous generation were repeated, some not.
I love Chadwick's style of writing. There is wisdom, thoughtfulness, and most of all the reality of those times. Yes, one part of me want to see a medieval love story like other romance writers sell to us but if you want the reality you have to search it in Chadwick's book (or perhaps by other similar writers). Like Misfit wrote: she brings the medieval period to life in such a graceful and effortless way, be it the sights, sounds, smells, food, clothes and battles is just awesome.
Main characters were fictional but through their stories, we learn about e.g. the Norman Conquest and horses breeding and selling.
If you love Elizabeth Chadwick's novels you don't need more motivation. If you like historical fiction and you haven't try Chadwick yet - you have to do it.
For more, I recommend Krista Baetiong Tungol's review.
My advice: Don't read a summary of the novel before reading.
This one is one of these that have stories about two generations. Some errors of the previous generation were repeated, some not.
...if he looked over his shoulder, he would see his youth disappearing towards the horizon.
I love Chadwick's style of writing. There is wisdom, thoughtfulness, and most of all the reality of those times. Yes, one part of me want to see a medieval love story like other romance writers sell to us but if you want the reality you have to search it in Chadwick's book (or perhaps by other similar writers). Like Misfit wrote: she brings the medieval period to life in such a graceful and effortless way, be it the sights, sounds, smells, food, clothes and battles is just awesome.
Main characters were fictional but through their stories, we learn about e.g. the Norman Conquest and horses breeding and selling.
If you love Elizabeth Chadwick's novels you don't need more motivation. If you like historical fiction and you haven't try Chadwick yet - you have to do it.
For more, I recommend Krista Baetiong Tungol's review.
My advice: Don't read a summary of the novel before reading.
July 14, 2015
The Conquest follows 2 generations of families in England and Normandy during the time of the Norman Conquest in 1066.
Unfortunately, this book suffers from predictability. Early on, you figure out who the main couple is, then it's easy to figure out basically what everyone else is going to have to do. Which means you spend the last 300 pages or so just waiting for it to happen.
I will give Chadwick credit though, she does a good job of creating interesting, compelling, relatable female characters that still work within their time period. Too often in historical fiction, characters end up being anachronistic ("time travelers" who clearly have the values of the 20th/21st century but plopped into the past) in an attempt to make them relatable and likeable. Chadwick consistently avoids this pitfall and gives a good sense of historical background and context.
Unfortunately, this book suffers from predictability. Early on, you figure out who the main couple is, then it's easy to figure out basically what everyone else is going to have to do. Which means you spend the last 300 pages or so just waiting for it to happen.
I will give Chadwick credit though, she does a good job of creating interesting, compelling, relatable female characters that still work within their time period. Too often in historical fiction, characters end up being anachronistic ("time travelers" who clearly have the values of the 20th/21st century but plopped into the past) in an attempt to make them relatable and likeable. Chadwick consistently avoids this pitfall and gives a good sense of historical background and context.
August 31, 2016
Poignant Tale of Two Loves Set Against the William’s Conquest of England
The story begins in 1065 (and continues through 1088), as Ailith, wife to Goldwin the Armorer, watches her younger teenage brothers serve the new English King Harold Godwinson as his bodyguards. Her husband makes them the Danish war axes, which they wield. But a storm is gathering as the Harald Hardrada, King of Norway and William, Duke of Normandy both seek to rule England. Rolf de Brize, a Norman horse breeder prepares his duke for war.
When the Conquest comes (Chadwick vividly describes the Battle of Hastings), Ailith’s life is deeply affected. As she says to the married Rolf, who has more than a passing interest in her, “My brothers, my baby, my husband. What more is there to take?” Well there is more as she experiences betrayal that shakes her very world. I was deeply affected by it and reaching for the Kleenex box with nearly every scene.
Chadwick has created a compelling story that portrays the difference between a marriage of convenience and a marriage of the heart, personal stories set against the tumultuous events during and after the Conquest. Ailith is a wonderful heroine any woman can identify with and love. She is strong yet vulnerable to the man she loves though she never really possesses all of him. Rolf is a man who, while mature in many ways, takes his pleasure wherever he wants without regard to the consequences. He has two women—his insipid Norman wife and Ailith, his English mistress—and dozens more besides. He sees too late what his betrayal has cost Ailith and their child. And hence I must warn historical romance lovers that the story of Ailith’s love for Rolf, which takes up most of the book, does not end well. Yet there is another story that follows, that of Ailith’s daughter Julitta, which will give you the happy ending you are looking for.
Julitta, is a wonderful wild young woman with a spirit only a man of strong character could appreciate. And she finds him when she is only five—Benedict. Like her mother before her, Julitta is forced by circumstances and the whims of others to accept less than her heart’s desire, which I have to say, pained me greatly.
The saga begins the year before the Conquest and continues for two decades as Chadwick weaves an intricate tale of the consequences of loyalties, the harsh revenge of William the Conqueror when the English do not bend to his well, lives disrupted and lost and a new legacy forged from the clash of two cultures. The characters are wonderfully drawn and the emotions powerful. The well written story reflects Chadwick’s considerable research into the period.
The book kept me reading till the wee hours of the morning and has haunted my dreams since. Chadwick is a master of historical storytelling and she pulled my heartstrings on this one. It’s a worthy story though at times a sad one.
The story begins in 1065 (and continues through 1088), as Ailith, wife to Goldwin the Armorer, watches her younger teenage brothers serve the new English King Harold Godwinson as his bodyguards. Her husband makes them the Danish war axes, which they wield. But a storm is gathering as the Harald Hardrada, King of Norway and William, Duke of Normandy both seek to rule England. Rolf de Brize, a Norman horse breeder prepares his duke for war.
When the Conquest comes (Chadwick vividly describes the Battle of Hastings), Ailith’s life is deeply affected. As she says to the married Rolf, who has more than a passing interest in her, “My brothers, my baby, my husband. What more is there to take?” Well there is more as she experiences betrayal that shakes her very world. I was deeply affected by it and reaching for the Kleenex box with nearly every scene.
Chadwick has created a compelling story that portrays the difference between a marriage of convenience and a marriage of the heart, personal stories set against the tumultuous events during and after the Conquest. Ailith is a wonderful heroine any woman can identify with and love. She is strong yet vulnerable to the man she loves though she never really possesses all of him. Rolf is a man who, while mature in many ways, takes his pleasure wherever he wants without regard to the consequences. He has two women—his insipid Norman wife and Ailith, his English mistress—and dozens more besides. He sees too late what his betrayal has cost Ailith and their child. And hence I must warn historical romance lovers that the story of Ailith’s love for Rolf, which takes up most of the book, does not end well. Yet there is another story that follows, that of Ailith’s daughter Julitta, which will give you the happy ending you are looking for.
Julitta, is a wonderful wild young woman with a spirit only a man of strong character could appreciate. And she finds him when she is only five—Benedict. Like her mother before her, Julitta is forced by circumstances and the whims of others to accept less than her heart’s desire, which I have to say, pained me greatly.
The saga begins the year before the Conquest and continues for two decades as Chadwick weaves an intricate tale of the consequences of loyalties, the harsh revenge of William the Conqueror when the English do not bend to his well, lives disrupted and lost and a new legacy forged from the clash of two cultures. The characters are wonderfully drawn and the emotions powerful. The well written story reflects Chadwick’s considerable research into the period.
The book kept me reading till the wee hours of the morning and has haunted my dreams since. Chadwick is a master of historical storytelling and she pulled my heartstrings on this one. It’s a worthy story though at times a sad one.
August 30, 2010
England & Normandy 1065-1088. I would consider The Conquest a historical romance but written just as well as her historical fiction. There are a few cameos of real historical figures (William the Conqueror, his sons and even someone I had to Wikipedia, Rodrigo Diaz de Bivar or "El Cid").
I loved the journey you are taken on in this book through England and Normandy. The book starts off with some real page turning events such as The Battle of Hastings and King Williams coronation. The MC Ailith, an Anglo-Saxon merchant's wife, looses her siblings, her husband and her child and doesn't see a purpose for her own life when at moment of extreme desparation she is saved by a good looking Norman horse trader. So a romance eventually blooms but complications are present from the beginning.
The book is split in two parts though and Ailith's unruly daughter, Julitta, takes center stage in the second half of the book with romance drama all her own. She is rebellious and seems as if no one will be able to "tame" her.
I loved all the details about the horses of the time and the trading between the European countries. It was refreshing for me to read a historical book that wasn't directly about the nobility and I enjoyed the romance and constant page turning drama. Elizabeth Chadwick always seems to write amazing characters and this book has multiple strong women who all have their desirable traits and flaws. The men are interesting too of course! I think the first part of the story was a little bit stronger than the second half, but still a great book!
I loved the journey you are taken on in this book through England and Normandy. The book starts off with some real page turning events such as The Battle of Hastings and King Williams coronation. The MC Ailith, an Anglo-Saxon merchant's wife, looses her siblings, her husband and her child and doesn't see a purpose for her own life when at moment of extreme desparation she is saved by a good looking Norman horse trader. So a romance eventually blooms but complications are present from the beginning.
The book is split in two parts though and Ailith's unruly daughter, Julitta, takes center stage in the second half of the book with romance drama all her own. She is rebellious and seems as if no one will be able to "tame" her.
I loved all the details about the horses of the time and the trading between the European countries. It was refreshing for me to read a historical book that wasn't directly about the nobility and I enjoyed the romance and constant page turning drama. Elizabeth Chadwick always seems to write amazing characters and this book has multiple strong women who all have their desirable traits and flaws. The men are interesting too of course! I think the first part of the story was a little bit stronger than the second half, but still a great book!
August 1, 2020
It was okay read. It took me forever to find this book. I got the last copy on Amazon. It was not worth the effort.
The first half is about Ailith and Rolf. Ailith story is sad. She loses her brothers, husband, and son. Later falls in love with a married man. Rolf is a wanderer. Never happy to stay in one place. So perfect guy for the hr to fall in love with.
The second half of the story is about their daughter. I loved Juliette, unfortunately the author makes her story almost as sad as her mother's. To love a married man, expect this time he is married to her half sister.
I never connected to the characters. I did cry for Ailith's story. This story had very little romance and not very much history. Not one of the author's best work.
The first half is about Ailith and Rolf. Ailith story is sad. She loses her brothers, husband, and son. Later falls in love with a married man. Rolf is a wanderer. Never happy to stay in one place. So perfect guy for the hr to fall in love with.
The second half of the story is about their daughter. I loved Juliette, unfortunately the author makes her story almost as sad as her mother's. To love a married man, expect this time he is married to her half sister.
I never connected to the characters. I did cry for Ailith's story. This story had very little romance and not very much history. Not one of the author's best work.
March 18, 2014
Recently, I've been enjoying reading about the Norman Conquest of England in the late 11th century. I've read other Elizabeth Chadwick historical novels and was excited to see she had written one about The Conquest. Unfortunately, it isn't about the Conquest. It takes place during Conquest times, but it is strictly a romance book. I almost gave it 2-stars because I find romance books trite and boring, but settled on 3 stars due to Chadwick's excellent writing. It's not her fault that I expected history and got a bodice-ripper. I enjoyed the first half a lot, but had to force myself to finish the 2nd half, which was about the next generation.
March 2, 2024
I just could not get into this one, but am willing to admit perhaps I just wasn't in the mood? First off the "first half of the novel on the mom [very sad by the way] then the second half focusing on the daughter" was too similar to the last Chadwick book I read (The Winter Mantle) so I found too much deja vu. Half way though and I'm like "oh no not again."
Second, well, I kind of hated the romance between Ailith and Rolf. I could never warm up to Rolf: he's married, he's a cheater, he's self absorbed - and Ailith's story ends up being so very sad!! (And it wasn't a good cry but a 'boy did she deserve better!') UGH! Then the second half is about their (illegitimate) daughter who also ends up falling in love with a married man. Just WTF? Also sad. So I was happy to close this off and do not recommend.
Anyway, this was not for me.
Second, well, I kind of hated the romance between Ailith and Rolf. I could never warm up to Rolf: he's married, he's a cheater, he's self absorbed - and Ailith's story ends up being so very sad!! (And it wasn't a good cry but a 'boy did she deserve better!') UGH! Then the second half is about their (illegitimate) daughter who also ends up falling in love with a married man. Just WTF? Also sad. So I was happy to close this off and do not recommend.
Anyway, this was not for me.
December 23, 2014
Beginning in 1065 and ending in 1088 , this book covers the Norman Conquest and its devastating effect on a young Saxon wife Ailith who befriends a Norman wine merchant's wife, Felice at a time when hostility is growing towards Normans in England
Ailith's two bothers are killed in the Battle of Hastings, her infant son dies and her husband is killed at William the Conqueror's coronation.
She tries to commit suicide but is stopped by Rold de Brize, a Norman merchant, and is taken to be paramour of his holdings at Ulverton. Though he has a wife and child in Normandy
His daughter by Ailith Julitte and Felice's son Bendict who up together but when Rolf's amorous adventures drive Ailith away, tragedy ensues and the trial and tribulations of the next generation begin,
A well written book, quite compelling m which takes us from England of the Norman Conquest to Normandy and the Spain of El Cid
If you like historical fiction , with a lot of romance and are not averse to some remarkable coincidences in the story line, tis will be right up your alley
Ailith's two bothers are killed in the Battle of Hastings, her infant son dies and her husband is killed at William the Conqueror's coronation.
She tries to commit suicide but is stopped by Rold de Brize, a Norman merchant, and is taken to be paramour of his holdings at Ulverton. Though he has a wife and child in Normandy
His daughter by Ailith Julitte and Felice's son Bendict who up together but when Rolf's amorous adventures drive Ailith away, tragedy ensues and the trial and tribulations of the next generation begin,
A well written book, quite compelling m which takes us from England of the Norman Conquest to Normandy and the Spain of El Cid
If you like historical fiction , with a lot of romance and are not averse to some remarkable coincidences in the story line, tis will be right up your alley
April 16, 2018
OK, I am going to disagree this time, although I usually agree when a book gets a four or five star rating.
This historical fiction book starts out as a good read with a family in England and another in Normandy. Then, we have the battle (conquest of England). Loved it so far. But that's only the first 1/4 of the book. The rest is a soap opera of relationships starting, breaking up, etc. etc. etc. My wife might like that but to me it was just boring.
This author writes some books that are more exciting and suspenseful, but this is not one of them. Of course, I prefer historical fiction such as murder mysteries, so I may be biased. My preferred authors are Paul C. Doherty, Arianna Franklin, Ashley Gardner, Anne Perry, etc. etc.
This historical fiction book starts out as a good read with a family in England and another in Normandy. Then, we have the battle (conquest of England). Loved it so far. But that's only the first 1/4 of the book. The rest is a soap opera of relationships starting, breaking up, etc. etc. etc. My wife might like that but to me it was just boring.
This author writes some books that are more exciting and suspenseful, but this is not one of them. Of course, I prefer historical fiction such as murder mysteries, so I may be biased. My preferred authors are Paul C. Doherty, Arianna Franklin, Ashley Gardner, Anne Perry, etc. etc.
August 5, 2011
For me, a really good book is one that you can't wait to continue reading once you've started. Not so with this book. The plot meandered here and there, the characters were weak and the ending was predictable. I'm currently reading about the Anglo-Saxon period before and after the Battle of Hastings (1066) so I was very interested in reading this book but I felt disappointed afterwards. Every author will occasionally toss out a "not so great" book from time to time so I'll read another of this author's titles to give her a chance to redeem my interest.
September 22, 2023
Excellent! Historical fiction that takes place during the conquest and reign of William the Conqueror. Full of drama and period detail to take you back to another time and place. If you like historical fiction you will love this.
February 11, 2019
5 Words: Family, friendship, attraction, duty, love.
One of my favourite historical romances, I love how rich it is in so many little details, the past truly comes alive.
One of my favourite historical romances, I love how rich it is in so many little details, the past truly comes alive.
March 1, 2021
Conquest
Thoughts:
Very descriptive but not clunky. Good pace and funny. Shows divides between peoples backgrounds that transcends all eras.
I really liked the characters and attached to them but at times the book felt like it should be split in three. It’s felt like a mini series and that was off putting at times. I really got the impression that the author did not want to say goodbye to her characters. Despite that I gave it 5 stars as it’s a journey worth going on!
Synopsis:
Ailith is expecting visitors, she has two maid and a hard working welder husband. She goes to get chickens for her brothers visit when she realises the chickens have all escaped.
Rushing to catch them from next door she makes an awkward introduction to Felice and her husband. Both Normans which makes her uneasy. Her husband says they will dine soon so that she is not worried about avoiding them forever.
Ailith’s brother visits and says her meals are better than the ones at court. He goes on to say that he believes they will have to fight the Normans and other names to protect who he believes is the right next king. He pays handsomely for Goldwin to make him an axe. Goldwin is shocked.
Goldwin can’t refuse his wife’s kin so he agrees but he is scared. He has no idea why, they return to the meal and Ailith feels the tension, knows something is not right. They see her brothers off but has a bad feeling herself. She shows Goldwin the star tail and his words worry her. She wishes for a child for them both, yet she worries over such a wish.
Felice worries about greeting Alilith and Goldwin, dressing to fine or well. She is preparing to have a better first meeting. Ailith struggles with the meal but warms up to Felice who in turns warms up to her.
Goldwin and Aubert press each other for information. Aubert for Duke of Wessex and Goldwin for the Duke of Normandy. Goldwin has to much to drink and needs to be helped home.
Alilith wakes Goldwin as the bells toll King Edward’s death and to get him to give her brother the items he made for him. She tells him the Duke of Wessex is made King and he his armourer.
Rolf saves a foul then returns to his keep, but not without missing adventure. The call of his blood. He sees his wet nurse who he has slept with. His wife joins him where they discuss the new foul and he thinks about the three miscarriages, one still birth, how it had taken her five months to recover from having his daughter. That his only complaint was that, she had a great bloodline but poor breeding stock.
Rolf gets a visit from Fitz who has come to ask him to buy horses for the Duke William who seeks the throne. He is excited to go, his wife scared. She parts for him so they can try to conceive a child, it’s not out of passion but of service. His daughters wet nurse gives him oblivion that he seeks. The open waters call him.
Alilith goes to town with Felice who is carrying and shares this secret with her friend. They argue over a trival matter but it brings the crowds down on Felice. They race to the mercer’s stalls where Alilith and Felice catch their breath. Together on pony they head back home until Felice gets sick. She almost falls off but the mercer’s apprentice catches her and lowers her to the ground.
Godwin unable to respond is overshadowed by King Harold. He carries Felice into the house and says he will offer her protection. Disgruntled by her husband Alilith thanks him and sends for her aunt Hilda. Who says Felice is still with child but very weak. So she must stay for 7 days.
In the forge Alilith tells Godwin of the pregnancy and he is proud yet scared by dreams of a battlefield, death and war.
Rolf meets Aubert where they catch up on what’s been happening. He gives Rolf a knife that he had Godwin make him. It’s perfect and Rolf says he should warn the Duke. Albert say this is unwise.
Alilith is taunted by her brothers for not seeing that Aubert was a spy. Aubert surprises Alilith when she is collecting eggs. She warns him of the trap at the convent, the struggles that Felice had gone through so far with child and if she were to be moved they were sure Felice would die. When Aubert leaves Alilith is really torn over the decision to call him back.
Rolf prepares for war his wife Arlette finds herself giving into passion. She has the runes read to her then feels guilt over it. Rolf meets with Aubert who gives him good news on their mission yet sad about his wife Felice who’s being kept in a convent that the king is having watched.
Alilith visits Felice where they chat a little. Alilith has to head for home and when she arrives she discovers that her husband Godwin is off to war with her brothers. She begs him not to leave yet he does after pulling her hands from his neck.
Rolf struggles to get a horse on bird, but when they set off its smooth sailing and regret of not staying behind sinks in.
Godwin is return to Ailith by her two brothers. She feeds them and attends to her husband. She is shocked by the mess he is in. The wounds infected and he’s got a fever.
Rolf eats his stew, here’s from one of the generals the plans and how even with the Pope’s support, the upper hand is with Harold. Aubert hates and curses the weather, it’s miserable.
He explains the on suing battle, the horses abs friends he has lost. His injured sand how he comes round.
Ailith finds herself struggling to care for Godwin. The weight of war on all of them. Rolf is entertained by Ailith and Godwin
Things take a heartbreaking turn as Ailith loses her son and in a matter of days her husband. Rolf finds himself claiming Godwin’s body and returning it to Ailith. He goes about trying to shake her grief from his mind, but he can’t.
The next day he retrieves his cloak and stops Ailith from ending her life. He gives her a reason to live. She must help Felice’s son and offers to help with funeral arrangements.
At the Nuns care Ailith sees Felice and tends her son. An awkward moment proceeds with Rolf and Ailith. Her pain keeps her numb but aware.
Ailith helps to raise Benedict (Felice’s son) while Felice recovers. Tension grows between the pair the older Ben grows. A situation Rolf notices. Meanwhile Ailith is perused by Wolfstan who is determined to have her.
On his trip home Rolf discovers a wound up wife and it makes up his mind to not take her to England with him for that country is to be his sanctuary from her. A witch warns him to not break his faith or there will be hell to pay. Rolf leaves just after his wife miscarriages again.
Upon Rolf’s return he finds Ailith underserved and offers her a way out. Despite what Felice and Aulbert think. She leaves with Rolf. Rolf informs Wolfstan of his arrangement to have Ailith as his house keeper. He takes it badly and vows to have her.
Alilith and Rolf conceived a girl which he named after his mother. Alilth has a hard time after the birth with feeling uncertain. Arlette seems to show signs of knowing of Rolf’s new life in England. Nether says anything.
Rolf has to go north and find another stallion for his pack pony supply. The Destruction and hopelessness breaks him a little but he remains true to the King.
Julitta is set upon by the Geese that the Viking lady brought from her home of Ulf. She is saved by Ben to whom she thinks she falls doe. Later that night Aubert asks Rolf for Gisele’s hand in marriage. Things with Alilith are rocky. He agrees to take Ben to meet his possible future bride and to talk to the Viking lady about her birds.
At the Viking lady’s home she pulls Rolf in a game designed to seduce him. Rolf gives in and creates a child which is kept from him.
A rut develops between Ailith and Rolf. It comes to a head when she finds the Viking lady bleeding out and the baby dead. She confesses all on her death bed. When Ailith leaves she comes across Arette on her way.
Going into hiding for eight years Ailith works at a bath house, Julitta soon helps her as her mother grows sick. When one night Wolfstan finds her and goes after her daughter, Rolf’s own fights back. Wolfstan dies of a heart attack.
Fleeing with her mother Julitta whose long for Ben and her father all these years, never knowing the truth stumbles on Ben who takes them home. Grown he rescues her once more as Alilith grows closer to death.
Ben arrives and tells Rolf that his daughter, Alilth was found. That she is dying. There is discussion with Aretta about Julitta who he never thought would return to him. He soon rides out with Ben to get her.
Alilth dies and Julitta is grieving for her mother, the stable overseer warns her of Ben. She takes flight away from him and shouts she does not want to meet him. She runs into him and his horse, he roars not recognising her at first till Ben tells him.
Inside the house Felice talks Julietta down and she lets her anger out at her father. Rolf offers the axe that took Alilith away into the river and takes Julietta back to Ulverton.
Julitta has a hard time adjusting to Ulverton and to Artte but she does her best to remain spirited. She is forced to watch Ben marry Gisele as they grow closer. The overseer is growing closer to Julitta even if she does not feel the same way.
Artte continues her plans to retire to a convent. On May Eve Julitta gives into her feelings and sleeps with Ben. She is caught by Rolf who decides how to handle things as Ben sent away to pray and she is dragged home.
Rolf sends Ben away the next day.
Julitta is married off to Mauger who beats her and makes her appear the dutiful wife. She believes made her bleeds come on her first month by force. Julitta on the inside bucks his control.
Sixteen months later and her love for Ben nor his has lessoned. She is given freedom when Mauger is asked to do forty days of military service. So Julitta has a bath and rides to visit her mother in laws convent to find Arlette ailing, fragile. Shocked by her plans to retire to the nunnery in two years time.
Julitta takes care of Arlette until Gisele comes home with Ben. There is an intimate moment in the garden between the pair. Mauger nearly catches them. Ben leaves for England to take Yuletide alone.
Upon return Arlette dies and Rolf is torn over the Kings death which sees the lands split between his sons. Rolf tells his wishes to Mauger and Ben.
Ben and Gisele go on a journey lighting candles along they way for Arlette’s soul. Before Ben leaves he gives Feya the horse Julitta loved to her. Mauger makes her pay to keep the horse with her body.
Ben and Gisele’s journey is becoming bumpy as they pass through the mountains. All the rain means landslides could happen.
Gisele and the other pilgrims are slaughtered, robbed. Ben is badly injured but saved by a doctor who works for an important man in the kingdom. He is helped to heal and pays tribute to Gisele. He sets out to finish her mission.
After much restless Ben moves on to Comstepella after learning all her can and Sancho believes that he will return.
Arlette dies and Julitta finds herself the host of the Duke of Normandy. She takes pressure off her father but bears her husbands anger.
Julitta is taken to the horse market and escapes her husbands orders to stay at their lodgings. She does so out of worry for Ben after seeing his horse. She runs into Ben abs Sancho who walks her back to the lodgings. There he tells Mauger and Julitta what happened to Gisele on their journey. He is heart broken.
They sail for home, Julitta and Mauger have the stallion tied up on a separate ship from Ben. They sail into a storm and just when they think they are safely through it they are attacked by Irish Viking’s. All go over with the ship when it capsizes. Julitta is saved by Ben on his own ship, Mauger is found later. He passes away during the voyage.
After a respectable morning time Julitta is claimed by Ben with her fathers blessing. Ben sails into his future with his love.
Thoughts:
Very descriptive but not clunky. Good pace and funny. Shows divides between peoples backgrounds that transcends all eras.
I really liked the characters and attached to them but at times the book felt like it should be split in three. It’s felt like a mini series and that was off putting at times. I really got the impression that the author did not want to say goodbye to her characters. Despite that I gave it 5 stars as it’s a journey worth going on!
Synopsis:
Ailith is expecting visitors, she has two maid and a hard working welder husband. She goes to get chickens for her brothers visit when she realises the chickens have all escaped.
Rushing to catch them from next door she makes an awkward introduction to Felice and her husband. Both Normans which makes her uneasy. Her husband says they will dine soon so that she is not worried about avoiding them forever.
Ailith’s brother visits and says her meals are better than the ones at court. He goes on to say that he believes they will have to fight the Normans and other names to protect who he believes is the right next king. He pays handsomely for Goldwin to make him an axe. Goldwin is shocked.
Goldwin can’t refuse his wife’s kin so he agrees but he is scared. He has no idea why, they return to the meal and Ailith feels the tension, knows something is not right. They see her brothers off but has a bad feeling herself. She shows Goldwin the star tail and his words worry her. She wishes for a child for them both, yet she worries over such a wish.
Felice worries about greeting Alilith and Goldwin, dressing to fine or well. She is preparing to have a better first meeting. Ailith struggles with the meal but warms up to Felice who in turns warms up to her.
Goldwin and Aubert press each other for information. Aubert for Duke of Wessex and Goldwin for the Duke of Normandy. Goldwin has to much to drink and needs to be helped home.
Alilith wakes Goldwin as the bells toll King Edward’s death and to get him to give her brother the items he made for him. She tells him the Duke of Wessex is made King and he his armourer.
Rolf saves a foul then returns to his keep, but not without missing adventure. The call of his blood. He sees his wet nurse who he has slept with. His wife joins him where they discuss the new foul and he thinks about the three miscarriages, one still birth, how it had taken her five months to recover from having his daughter. That his only complaint was that, she had a great bloodline but poor breeding stock.
Rolf gets a visit from Fitz who has come to ask him to buy horses for the Duke William who seeks the throne. He is excited to go, his wife scared. She parts for him so they can try to conceive a child, it’s not out of passion but of service. His daughters wet nurse gives him oblivion that he seeks. The open waters call him.
Alilith goes to town with Felice who is carrying and shares this secret with her friend. They argue over a trival matter but it brings the crowds down on Felice. They race to the mercer’s stalls where Alilith and Felice catch their breath. Together on pony they head back home until Felice gets sick. She almost falls off but the mercer’s apprentice catches her and lowers her to the ground.
Godwin unable to respond is overshadowed by King Harold. He carries Felice into the house and says he will offer her protection. Disgruntled by her husband Alilith thanks him and sends for her aunt Hilda. Who says Felice is still with child but very weak. So she must stay for 7 days.
In the forge Alilith tells Godwin of the pregnancy and he is proud yet scared by dreams of a battlefield, death and war.
Rolf meets Aubert where they catch up on what’s been happening. He gives Rolf a knife that he had Godwin make him. It’s perfect and Rolf says he should warn the Duke. Albert say this is unwise.
Alilith is taunted by her brothers for not seeing that Aubert was a spy. Aubert surprises Alilith when she is collecting eggs. She warns him of the trap at the convent, the struggles that Felice had gone through so far with child and if she were to be moved they were sure Felice would die. When Aubert leaves Alilith is really torn over the decision to call him back.
Rolf prepares for war his wife Arlette finds herself giving into passion. She has the runes read to her then feels guilt over it. Rolf meets with Aubert who gives him good news on their mission yet sad about his wife Felice who’s being kept in a convent that the king is having watched.
Alilith visits Felice where they chat a little. Alilith has to head for home and when she arrives she discovers that her husband Godwin is off to war with her brothers. She begs him not to leave yet he does after pulling her hands from his neck.
Rolf struggles to get a horse on bird, but when they set off its smooth sailing and regret of not staying behind sinks in.
Godwin is return to Ailith by her two brothers. She feeds them and attends to her husband. She is shocked by the mess he is in. The wounds infected and he’s got a fever.
Rolf eats his stew, here’s from one of the generals the plans and how even with the Pope’s support, the upper hand is with Harold. Aubert hates and curses the weather, it’s miserable.
He explains the on suing battle, the horses abs friends he has lost. His injured sand how he comes round.
Ailith finds herself struggling to care for Godwin. The weight of war on all of them. Rolf is entertained by Ailith and Godwin
Things take a heartbreaking turn as Ailith loses her son and in a matter of days her husband. Rolf finds himself claiming Godwin’s body and returning it to Ailith. He goes about trying to shake her grief from his mind, but he can’t.
The next day he retrieves his cloak and stops Ailith from ending her life. He gives her a reason to live. She must help Felice’s son and offers to help with funeral arrangements.
At the Nuns care Ailith sees Felice and tends her son. An awkward moment proceeds with Rolf and Ailith. Her pain keeps her numb but aware.
Ailith helps to raise Benedict (Felice’s son) while Felice recovers. Tension grows between the pair the older Ben grows. A situation Rolf notices. Meanwhile Ailith is perused by Wolfstan who is determined to have her.
On his trip home Rolf discovers a wound up wife and it makes up his mind to not take her to England with him for that country is to be his sanctuary from her. A witch warns him to not break his faith or there will be hell to pay. Rolf leaves just after his wife miscarriages again.
Upon Rolf’s return he finds Ailith underserved and offers her a way out. Despite what Felice and Aulbert think. She leaves with Rolf. Rolf informs Wolfstan of his arrangement to have Ailith as his house keeper. He takes it badly and vows to have her.
Alilith and Rolf conceived a girl which he named after his mother. Alilth has a hard time after the birth with feeling uncertain. Arlette seems to show signs of knowing of Rolf’s new life in England. Nether says anything.
Rolf has to go north and find another stallion for his pack pony supply. The Destruction and hopelessness breaks him a little but he remains true to the King.
Julitta is set upon by the Geese that the Viking lady brought from her home of Ulf. She is saved by Ben to whom she thinks she falls doe. Later that night Aubert asks Rolf for Gisele’s hand in marriage. Things with Alilith are rocky. He agrees to take Ben to meet his possible future bride and to talk to the Viking lady about her birds.
At the Viking lady’s home she pulls Rolf in a game designed to seduce him. Rolf gives in and creates a child which is kept from him.
A rut develops between Ailith and Rolf. It comes to a head when she finds the Viking lady bleeding out and the baby dead. She confesses all on her death bed. When Ailith leaves she comes across Arette on her way.
Going into hiding for eight years Ailith works at a bath house, Julitta soon helps her as her mother grows sick. When one night Wolfstan finds her and goes after her daughter, Rolf’s own fights back. Wolfstan dies of a heart attack.
Fleeing with her mother Julitta whose long for Ben and her father all these years, never knowing the truth stumbles on Ben who takes them home. Grown he rescues her once more as Alilith grows closer to death.
Ben arrives and tells Rolf that his daughter, Alilth was found. That she is dying. There is discussion with Aretta about Julitta who he never thought would return to him. He soon rides out with Ben to get her.
Alilth dies and Julitta is grieving for her mother, the stable overseer warns her of Ben. She takes flight away from him and shouts she does not want to meet him. She runs into him and his horse, he roars not recognising her at first till Ben tells him.
Inside the house Felice talks Julietta down and she lets her anger out at her father. Rolf offers the axe that took Alilith away into the river and takes Julietta back to Ulverton.
Julitta has a hard time adjusting to Ulverton and to Artte but she does her best to remain spirited. She is forced to watch Ben marry Gisele as they grow closer. The overseer is growing closer to Julitta even if she does not feel the same way.
Artte continues her plans to retire to a convent. On May Eve Julitta gives into her feelings and sleeps with Ben. She is caught by Rolf who decides how to handle things as Ben sent away to pray and she is dragged home.
Rolf sends Ben away the next day.
Julitta is married off to Mauger who beats her and makes her appear the dutiful wife. She believes made her bleeds come on her first month by force. Julitta on the inside bucks his control.
Sixteen months later and her love for Ben nor his has lessoned. She is given freedom when Mauger is asked to do forty days of military service. So Julitta has a bath and rides to visit her mother in laws convent to find Arlette ailing, fragile. Shocked by her plans to retire to the nunnery in two years time.
Julitta takes care of Arlette until Gisele comes home with Ben. There is an intimate moment in the garden between the pair. Mauger nearly catches them. Ben leaves for England to take Yuletide alone.
Upon return Arlette dies and Rolf is torn over the Kings death which sees the lands split between his sons. Rolf tells his wishes to Mauger and Ben.
Ben and Gisele go on a journey lighting candles along they way for Arlette’s soul. Before Ben leaves he gives Feya the horse Julitta loved to her. Mauger makes her pay to keep the horse with her body.
Ben and Gisele’s journey is becoming bumpy as they pass through the mountains. All the rain means landslides could happen.
Gisele and the other pilgrims are slaughtered, robbed. Ben is badly injured but saved by a doctor who works for an important man in the kingdom. He is helped to heal and pays tribute to Gisele. He sets out to finish her mission.
After much restless Ben moves on to Comstepella after learning all her can and Sancho believes that he will return.
Arlette dies and Julitta finds herself the host of the Duke of Normandy. She takes pressure off her father but bears her husbands anger.
Julitta is taken to the horse market and escapes her husbands orders to stay at their lodgings. She does so out of worry for Ben after seeing his horse. She runs into Ben abs Sancho who walks her back to the lodgings. There he tells Mauger and Julitta what happened to Gisele on their journey. He is heart broken.
They sail for home, Julitta and Mauger have the stallion tied up on a separate ship from Ben. They sail into a storm and just when they think they are safely through it they are attacked by Irish Viking’s. All go over with the ship when it capsizes. Julitta is saved by Ben on his own ship, Mauger is found later. He passes away during the voyage.
After a respectable morning time Julitta is claimed by Ben with her fathers blessing. Ben sails into his future with his love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
maybe
August 4, 2021Need safety spoilers...
December 25, 2018
Fantastic read with well developed and complex characters.
August 20, 2008
Unputdownable! Is that a word? If not it should be, at least when describing this author's books. The Conquest is really two books in one, telling the story of two generations as it opens shortly before the Norman invasion of 1066. Saxon housewife Ailith loses her husband, brothers and new born child and attempts to take her own life, but is stopped by womanizing Norman knight Rolf de Brize. To avoid the romantic attentions of a London Goldsmith, Ailith accepts Rolf's offer to serve as chatelaine at his castle and (of course) love follows and they have a daughter Julitta. Eventually the relationship deteriorates, not helped by the fact that Rolf has a wife and daughter in Normandy.
The second half of the book tells the story of their daughter Julitta, reunited with her father after years of separation and she has to see her beloved Benedict marry her half sister who loves the church more than she loves her husband. Caught up in the revelries of a May Day celebration the actions of Julitta and Benedict have far reaching consequences on everyone's lives and.......
I'm not telling anymore, you have to read for yourself. Needless to say that once I picked the book up (and this is the second time around) I just could not put it down, and as with all of this author's books the way she brings the medieval period to life in such a graceful and effortless way, be it the sights, sounds, smells, food, clothes and battles is just awesome. Although her books are becoming rare and hard to find in the US they are readily available through UK and Canada and well worth the cost and effort to do so. Five stars.
The second half of the book tells the story of their daughter Julitta, reunited with her father after years of separation and she has to see her beloved Benedict marry her half sister who loves the church more than she loves her husband. Caught up in the revelries of a May Day celebration the actions of Julitta and Benedict have far reaching consequences on everyone's lives and.......
I'm not telling anymore, you have to read for yourself. Needless to say that once I picked the book up (and this is the second time around) I just could not put it down, and as with all of this author's books the way she brings the medieval period to life in such a graceful and effortless way, be it the sights, sounds, smells, food, clothes and battles is just awesome. Although her books are becoming rare and hard to find in the US they are readily available through UK and Canada and well worth the cost and effort to do so. Five stars.
January 3, 2012
I have one bit of advice regarding reading Elizabeth Chadwick novels, especially in paperback. Do NOT read the back cover. Although I didn't realize it, most of the major plot points are given away in that tiny bit of description. It is a testament to Miss Chadwick's skill as a writer that I was still interested in how the story would unfold.
Ailith is happily married to an armourer in the days leading up to the Battle of Hastings. She is expecting a child, her brothers are huscarls to King Harold, and her life is largely peaceful. The Battle changes that, and has repercussions for generations to come.
Notwithstanding my warning regarding reading the back, there were numerous surprises in the book's 566 pages, and those were exciting to discover. I gave up a night's sleep in order to find out what would happen to Ailith, Julitta, and their various friends and family members. Chadwick writes in a way that seems plausible, but yet approachable, and I appreciated that. Reading about the change from Saxon to Norman leadership through the eyes of the women of the home is an excellent way to get an overview of the period.
Ailith is happily married to an armourer in the days leading up to the Battle of Hastings. She is expecting a child, her brothers are huscarls to King Harold, and her life is largely peaceful. The Battle changes that, and has repercussions for generations to come.
Notwithstanding my warning regarding reading the back, there were numerous surprises in the book's 566 pages, and those were exciting to discover. I gave up a night's sleep in order to find out what would happen to Ailith, Julitta, and their various friends and family members. Chadwick writes in a way that seems plausible, but yet approachable, and I appreciated that. Reading about the change from Saxon to Norman leadership through the eyes of the women of the home is an excellent way to get an overview of the period.
June 19, 2015
An incredible book, highly addictive, very recommendable. Historical fiction intriguing and enchanting. I was looking forward to reading more about William The Conqueror, never expected to find this jewel; related to the history of the conquest indirectly it affects its characters and the events in the plot. The story of Rolf and Ailith, leaves central stage to Julitta and Benedict, hoping against hope, seeing everything evolve in a thrilling, schilling manner, death lurks on the characters and one never knows how things are evolving or to what purpose. With geniality E.Chadwick leaves out facts we think we ought to know, but it turns out intentionally we are left in the dark, forced to keep reading to find out how everything disentangles and stretch out. I will re read this soon I believe. The narration is finely full of details that scape at first and everything is taken in through second reading, a third wouldn't go amiss. Well done! and in the end Julitta gets a happy ending! sorry for that, had to vent it. Fantastic book.
March 13, 2021
Although I'd been advised that this one-off early novel isn't the ideal introduction to Chadwick's writing, which came highly recommended to me, I very much enjoyed reading The Conquest. It really captured the shift in social and political culture during the invasion period and how two cultures learned live (and love) with one another against the legendary backdrop of the Norman period. Despite a slightly rushed first act, I thought some of Chadwick's decisions in terms of the plot were brave, if a little shocking at times, and the attention paid to the role of horses and horsebreeding in Norman society that ran throughout the novel was engaging. I'm looking forward to getting stuck into some of her more well-known books.
April 9, 2012
The book was a disappointment and did not turn out to be a page turner like Chadwick's "Falcons of Montabard. The plot is slow pacing and gets boring at times. It felt more like a biography of the mother and daughter. The ending was totally predictable.
December 9, 2015
Elizabeth Chadwick never fails to impress. All the period details were great as usual, and this one was quite interesting as it told a multi-generational tale. I think it is probably one of my favourite of hers that I have read to date.
May 6, 2025
An endless possibilities of "If". If only Ailith had considered the consequences of being the mistress of a man like Rolf. If only Julietta had been more wise and less stubborn. If only she and Mauger understood each other a little bit better. If people were content with what they had been given. The book held all the emotions anger, envy, obsession, lust. I don't know if the author wanted to portray it that way but love was not love. One character in the book said that "It was lust at first sight that turned into love". The author made it seem that everything was about lust. I don't agree with author's definition of love. What does a five year old know about love and what does a man blinded by lust knows about it. The women like Gisele and Arlette were not good enough and could not kept their husbands faithful because they were not good in bed and did not have the proper figure their husbands liked( at least that's what the author showed). It was just stupid. Every man admired Julietta and Ailith because they had a certain body type and they were free of spirit. Being free of spirit and easy to laugh are the things that men like about women and these are the same things men like to control. I didn't like that the author focused solely on the main characters bodies and singled them out on the basis of this. The book just discusses how sex was great between Rolf and Ailith. I mean I know that it was a factor and may be that was the thing that attracted them to each other but other than the physical and superficial attributes of their relationship their was no depth. Julietta and Benedict had more friendly relationship and their chemistry and compatibility made sense but it was their absolute lack of control over their feelings that made me annoyed. Julietta was so whiny at the start of the book and it felt like she needed a reality check. I hate that every lead female character is a woman that stands out just because of her beauty. It doesn't always have to be that way. Women did not read in that time period like I would have died if there was no reading but may be they did not know the joy of it yet.
The most important lesson that everyone needs to remember that men like Rolf always cheat. You can't just tame them. And personally even though it was common in that era I hate men who cheat even if their wives are evil and Rolf had only a lame excuse that her wife was not good in bed. I mean may be the men in that era were all like that and they did not love their children or their wives and just wanted to be free to do whatever they wanted without considering the consequences.
The most important lesson that everyone needs to remember that men like Rolf always cheat. You can't just tame them. And personally even though it was common in that era I hate men who cheat even if their wives are evil and Rolf had only a lame excuse that her wife was not good in bed. I mean may be the men in that era were all like that and they did not love their children or their wives and just wanted to be free to do whatever they wanted without considering the consequences.
May 24, 2023
Hmm.
Thankfully, I read 'Eleanor of Aquitaine' trilogy before I read this, or I wouldn't have known there were other gems around.
This one is a long shot from those books, which I'm not surprised at since they were written years ago before the latter.
This story is about the Norman Conquest though its story is told more around the lives of two women, from different generations. It is well written though I had issues about the transitions (as I noticed that there were no marks to show the scenes were being changed) but it wasn't as riveting as the other books.
The story has a predominant theme which is struggle, especially about love.
Each of the important characters wanted someone and for a few, it worked well for them, and others, it didn't.
Though there were other fine characters there, I pitied Arlette and Mauger the most.
Arlette, because of her misquided notions about a marital act that was supposed to add flames to her marriage and Mauger, because he didn't have the privilege in explaining himself. It's no wonder Arlette took comfort in her daughter's arms, and Mauger in Julitta's, hoping she would realize he cared for her and stick with him to the end. Unfortunately, the one thing he was advised against caused his death.
I liked the contrast between Rolf's life and his friend, Aubert. The former was always burying his 'wild oats' outside his marriage, while Aubert stuck with his wife. There's a high possibility that the latter might have done the same but while he was married, there was no mention.
It explained that not every man was wayward and that marriage should be kept sanctified. Given Arlette and Rolf's characters, I'm not certain they could have worked it out but while with Ailith, there hadn't been a need for Rolf to sleep with Inga. It was unnecessary and only smeared his character more.
Despite all these, the book was a nice read.
Thankfully, I read 'Eleanor of Aquitaine' trilogy before I read this, or I wouldn't have known there were other gems around.
This one is a long shot from those books, which I'm not surprised at since they were written years ago before the latter.
This story is about the Norman Conquest though its story is told more around the lives of two women, from different generations. It is well written though I had issues about the transitions (as I noticed that there were no marks to show the scenes were being changed) but it wasn't as riveting as the other books.
The story has a predominant theme which is struggle, especially about love.
Each of the important characters wanted someone and for a few, it worked well for them, and others, it didn't.
Though there were other fine characters there, I pitied Arlette and Mauger the most.
Arlette, because of her misquided notions about a marital act that was supposed to add flames to her marriage and Mauger, because he didn't have the privilege in explaining himself. It's no wonder Arlette took comfort in her daughter's arms, and Mauger in Julitta's, hoping she would realize he cared for her and stick with him to the end. Unfortunately, the one thing he was advised against caused his death.
I liked the contrast between Rolf's life and his friend, Aubert. The former was always burying his 'wild oats' outside his marriage, while Aubert stuck with his wife. There's a high possibility that the latter might have done the same but while he was married, there was no mention.
It explained that not every man was wayward and that marriage should be kept sanctified. Given Arlette and Rolf's characters, I'm not certain they could have worked it out but while with Ailith, there hadn't been a need for Rolf to sleep with Inga. It was unnecessary and only smeared his character more.
Despite all these, the book was a nice read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 30, 2025
Wow. Why ever did it take me so long to discover Elizabeth Chadwick after devouring all of Sharon Kay Penman’s novels?
The characters are so well developed. The description of place and time is so real I felt like I was watching a movie. The “bad guys” are really not all that bad, they are very real and I found myself having a lot of compassion for them. This story starts with the mother Ailith during the battle of Hastings and the Norman Conquest of England and ends with her daughter Julitta.
Only a few real life people make an appearance for a few pages including William the Bastard, and his oldest son Robert who would be come Duke of Normandy and his son Rufus who would become King of England. El CID even makes an appearance who now I have to look up on Wikipedia. If you want to read a wonderful novel involving his 3rd son Henry, who becomes King Henry I if England, I HIGHLY recommend “The Kings Jewel” by EC, another jewel of a novel!!!
This novel is about the folks who came to England as conquerors and how this effected the life of Ailith a Saxon woman. But it turns into an intense adventurous romance involving her daughter and her true love. Sometimes when I read historical fiction it inspires me to look up what is actual fact in the story, with this novel I believe it is entirely made up as the characters are not based on real people, but the story feels real, is never contrived or forced and was just a wonderful experience all around, especially for understanding this time period.
Overall this novel is a lesson in the tragedies that can befall when people are not allowed to be with those they are truly in love with. If you are a historical fiction junky like I am, I highly recommend this novel, and I dare say it is one of my all time favorites! These characters are going to stick with me for some time.
The characters are so well developed. The description of place and time is so real I felt like I was watching a movie. The “bad guys” are really not all that bad, they are very real and I found myself having a lot of compassion for them. This story starts with the mother Ailith during the battle of Hastings and the Norman Conquest of England and ends with her daughter Julitta.
Only a few real life people make an appearance for a few pages including William the Bastard, and his oldest son Robert who would be come Duke of Normandy and his son Rufus who would become King of England. El CID even makes an appearance who now I have to look up on Wikipedia. If you want to read a wonderful novel involving his 3rd son Henry, who becomes King Henry I if England, I HIGHLY recommend “The Kings Jewel” by EC, another jewel of a novel!!!
This novel is about the folks who came to England as conquerors and how this effected the life of Ailith a Saxon woman. But it turns into an intense adventurous romance involving her daughter and her true love. Sometimes when I read historical fiction it inspires me to look up what is actual fact in the story, with this novel I believe it is entirely made up as the characters are not based on real people, but the story feels real, is never contrived or forced and was just a wonderful experience all around, especially for understanding this time period.
Overall this novel is a lesson in the tragedies that can befall when people are not allowed to be with those they are truly in love with. If you are a historical fiction junky like I am, I highly recommend this novel, and I dare say it is one of my all time favorites! These characters are going to stick with me for some time.
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