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Medieval Song #3
Earth Song
Dear Reader: Philippa de Beauchamp, as impulsive as she is beautiful, flees her father's castle when she hears she is to be wed to the repellent Baron de Bridgport. But her daring escape in a wool wagon quickly becomes a misadventure, and she winds up in the arms of Dienwalk de Fortenberry, a rogue as smooth and bold as Aquitaine wine. Soon Philippa finds herself a prisoner at Dienwald's castle, where there are mysteries to be solved, villians to be bested, and a stubborn man's heart to be won. You'll also meet old friends, Graelam and Kassia de Moreton from Fire Song, as well as the king of England, who is closesr to Philippa than she could ever imagine. Journey back to the thirteenth-century Cornwall, and let me entertain you
407 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 1990
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
October 8, 2025
Read: 10/8/25
Setting: 1275 Cornwall, England
Trope. medieval, kidnapping, awkward h (very tall)
This was a charming, funny, entertaining hr! The book was lighthearted and humorous, a change for CC.
Plot: Philippa overheard her father telling an overzealous suitor that she was already betrothed to an old, cruel lord. Upon hearing this, Philippa rashly runs away. She hids in a wool wagon. she will go to her mother's nephew. Unfortunately, the wool cart is stolen with her in it. She is now at the dastardly Dienwald's keep. The "rogue of Cornwall ".
Diemwald doesn't know what to do with the tall wench. According to her, Philippa's father won't pay a ransom and will be happy to leave her to her fate. For now, he will put her to work weaving the stolen wool. Though soon, her ability to read and calculate earns her the position of steward. Her dedication also slowly earns her the love of his servants. Philippa is slowly taking over Dienwald's world, and he won't have it! He'll teach that wench a lesson or so he thinks!
While Philippa and Dienwald are battling each other, there are problems that will complicate everything. It turns out Philippa is actually the bastard daughter of King Edward. Her father is finally ready to recognize her and find a husband for her. Her foster father, Lord Henry, is trying to placate the King's Chancellor while desperately searching for Philippa. He lied to the suitor to discourage him. He didn't expect Philippa to overhear him. Then Lord Henry makes things worse by seaking out his wife's nephew, hoping Philippa went there. Sir Walter is Dienwald's greatest enemy. He will marry Philippa and be rewarded riches and his former home (now Dienwald's). Walter will cause many problems for the couple.
So, will Philippa and Dienwald stop fighting long enough to fall in love? Will Dienwald wake up in time, or will he lose Philippa to Walter?
Liked:
1. Philippa. At first, I didn't like her. She was too impulsive. Jumping in a moat, then a wool wagon with no plan or money is just stupid. I was afraid she was a TSTL h. Then she got to Dienwald's keep and slowly took over. She was smart, clever, witty, she won me over. She was fantastic!
2. Dienwald was a great medieval H! He is a charming rogue who likes things his way. He enjoys having no man to answer to. Philippa gets under his skin, and he can't stop thinking about her. I love it when he finds at the end that Philippa is the king's daughter. He was not happy about that, and it was hilarious.
3. The romance was shaky for a while ;). These two loved to bait each other. Their love came from their fighting, and I enjoyed every minute of it. The sex scenes? Dienwald does not SA her. (TG!) . Their sexual tension last until they finally get married. Then it got 🥵.
4. Side characters. I wish their had been more, but I did enjoy the ones included. I really liked Edmund, Dienwald's son. CC is good at writing children very realistically.
disliked:
1. When Dienwald wanted Philippa, he would leave and go to another woman for his release. It bothered me a little.
2. I get it. She's tall! This insult is referenced way too many times in this book. It became tiresome.
3. Usually, CC's books grab me from the beginning. This one took me a while to get into the story. There isn't much action, so some might find the plot slower.
Conclusion: This was a much tamer book than I'm used to by this author. Luckily, the plot didn't suffer because of it. The MC bickering made this a hilarious, entertaining read! While this isn't the author's best, I still enjoyed this book.
Setting: 1275 Cornwall, England
Trope. medieval, kidnapping, awkward h (very tall)
This was a charming, funny, entertaining hr! The book was lighthearted and humorous, a change for CC.
Plot: Philippa overheard her father telling an overzealous suitor that she was already betrothed to an old, cruel lord. Upon hearing this, Philippa rashly runs away. She hids in a wool wagon. she will go to her mother's nephew. Unfortunately, the wool cart is stolen with her in it. She is now at the dastardly Dienwald's keep. The "rogue of Cornwall ".
Diemwald doesn't know what to do with the tall wench. According to her, Philippa's father won't pay a ransom and will be happy to leave her to her fate. For now, he will put her to work weaving the stolen wool. Though soon, her ability to read and calculate earns her the position of steward. Her dedication also slowly earns her the love of his servants. Philippa is slowly taking over Dienwald's world, and he won't have it! He'll teach that wench a lesson or so he thinks!
While Philippa and Dienwald are battling each other, there are problems that will complicate everything. It turns out Philippa is actually the bastard daughter of King Edward. Her father is finally ready to recognize her and find a husband for her. Her foster father, Lord Henry, is trying to placate the King's Chancellor while desperately searching for Philippa. He lied to the suitor to discourage him. He didn't expect Philippa to overhear him. Then Lord Henry makes things worse by seaking out his wife's nephew, hoping Philippa went there. Sir Walter is Dienwald's greatest enemy. He will marry Philippa and be rewarded riches and his former home (now Dienwald's). Walter will cause many problems for the couple.
So, will Philippa and Dienwald stop fighting long enough to fall in love? Will Dienwald wake up in time, or will he lose Philippa to Walter?
Liked:
1. Philippa. At first, I didn't like her. She was too impulsive. Jumping in a moat, then a wool wagon with no plan or money is just stupid. I was afraid she was a TSTL h. Then she got to Dienwald's keep and slowly took over. She was smart, clever, witty, she won me over. She was fantastic!
2. Dienwald was a great medieval H! He is a charming rogue who likes things his way. He enjoys having no man to answer to. Philippa gets under his skin, and he can't stop thinking about her. I love it when he finds at the end that Philippa is the king's daughter. He was not happy about that, and it was hilarious.
3. The romance was shaky for a while ;). These two loved to bait each other. Their love came from their fighting, and I enjoyed every minute of it. The sex scenes? Dienwald does not SA her. (TG!) . Their sexual tension last until they finally get married. Then it got 🥵.
4. Side characters. I wish their had been more, but I did enjoy the ones included. I really liked Edmund, Dienwald's son. CC is good at writing children very realistically.
disliked:
1. When Dienwald wanted Philippa, he would leave and go to another woman for his release. It bothered me a little.
2. I get it. She's tall! This insult is referenced way too many times in this book. It became tiresome.
3. Usually, CC's books grab me from the beginning. This one took me a while to get into the story. There isn't much action, so some might find the plot slower.
Conclusion: This was a much tamer book than I'm used to by this author. Luckily, the plot didn't suffer because of it. The MC bickering made this a hilarious, entertaining read! While this isn't the author's best, I still enjoyed this book.
January 13, 2024
This story, literally, had me in stitches, each and every time that I read it. Dienwald's reaction, when he finds out that he married the bastard daughter of the king was hilarious. It could have come off as overdone, but personally, considering the character of Dienwald, it fit perfectly!!
May 7, 2010
An atypical romance despite the typical plot. Philippa runs away from home due to a misunderstanding and ends up the prisoner of the rough and mercurial Dienwald. Despite the typical romance degradations: forced stripping, public nudity, sharing beds, foreplay while denying intercourse, spanking, derogatory names, Philippa remains unbroken and actually slowly takes control of his castle, gaining the admiration of his people, ferreting out traitors, until he is the last person to admit she is the lady of the house. There are some extraordinary bolts from the blue, such as she is the bastard daughter of the king of England, and some silly threat of a villain who kidnaps from her now acceptable prison for another prison. However I can't decide if the scene of Phillippa literally beating Dienwald's stubborn self into acceptance of her love makes up for him being an untrusting verbally abusive ass who continually charms her into forgiving and having sex with him. Probably not.
September 26, 2019
I laughed so loud my husband told me I was being disruptive!!! I really enjoyed the interaction of the heroine and hero! There's nothing quite like a woman who is willing to give as good as she gets!
February 21, 2014
This reminded me of two of my favorite medieval romance books: Lady Gallant and Shadowheart. The heroes in those novels spoke and acted like Dinewald. The big difference here is Philippa is a no nonsense girl and is not a push over. I really enjoyed the roundabout way they fell in love. It is a fascinating book that paints the picture of an independent female in deeds and words. All hail strong, determined and confident women! :)
December 28, 2023
4 stelle e mezzo.
Non credo che Catherine Coulter abbia bisogno di presentazioni per chi legge #historicalromance: è brava ed è una regina nel suo genere.
Mi spiace non aver letto a suo tempo questa serie medievale, tra l'altro in parte ancora inedita da noi; sono tutti libri autoconclusivi, però molto belli, e spero che negli Introvabili facciano la loro apparizione anche i restanti volumi.
Anche questo EARTH SONG è riuscito nell'impresa di non farmi mai annoiare, nonostante siano quasi 400 pagine.
Pur avendo costruito una trama lunga e complessa, la Coulter resta sempre credibile restituendoci una realistica piccola corte di un castello in Cornovaglia, con agguati, malattie, fango, odori, fame, lana sporca da cardare, piedi feriti per mancanza di scarpe e rogna per carenza di sapone.
Non è il solito medioevo idilliaco, per intenderci, ma l'Inghilterra del tredicesimo secolo, divisa tra baroni riottosi e la corona dei Plantageneti, con tutte le sue implicazioni, anche se ovviamente romanzate.
Anche la storia d’amore è molto articolata e drammatica (stiamo pur sempre parlando del gusto anni '90) ma non così assurda, e soprattutto riesce a essere a volte divertente.
Philippa è una bellezza anomala per l'epoca, alta e forte, tanto da essere disprezzata come la "Gigantessa". Ma è anche colta, istruita, abile nei mestieri femminili e nelle arti utili a mandare avanti una casa e pure un castello. Quando decide di fuggire dalla famiglia per non sposare un vecchio nobile, tutto pare precipitare, anche se lei ha sempre una marcia in più.
Da parte sua, Dienwald, il protagonista maschile, è inizialmente odioso, ottuso e offensivo, ma resta un uomo del suo tempo, con un senso dell’onore (e considerate che spesso e volentieri l’uomo contemporaneo neanche sa cos’è il senso dell’onore…).
Se volete recuperare un buon HR tradizionale, eccolo qua.
Non credo che Catherine Coulter abbia bisogno di presentazioni per chi legge #historicalromance: è brava ed è una regina nel suo genere.
Mi spiace non aver letto a suo tempo questa serie medievale, tra l'altro in parte ancora inedita da noi; sono tutti libri autoconclusivi, però molto belli, e spero che negli Introvabili facciano la loro apparizione anche i restanti volumi.
Anche questo EARTH SONG è riuscito nell'impresa di non farmi mai annoiare, nonostante siano quasi 400 pagine.
Pur avendo costruito una trama lunga e complessa, la Coulter resta sempre credibile restituendoci una realistica piccola corte di un castello in Cornovaglia, con agguati, malattie, fango, odori, fame, lana sporca da cardare, piedi feriti per mancanza di scarpe e rogna per carenza di sapone.
Non è il solito medioevo idilliaco, per intenderci, ma l'Inghilterra del tredicesimo secolo, divisa tra baroni riottosi e la corona dei Plantageneti, con tutte le sue implicazioni, anche se ovviamente romanzate.
Anche la storia d’amore è molto articolata e drammatica (stiamo pur sempre parlando del gusto anni '90) ma non così assurda, e soprattutto riesce a essere a volte divertente.
Philippa è una bellezza anomala per l'epoca, alta e forte, tanto da essere disprezzata come la "Gigantessa". Ma è anche colta, istruita, abile nei mestieri femminili e nelle arti utili a mandare avanti una casa e pure un castello. Quando decide di fuggire dalla famiglia per non sposare un vecchio nobile, tutto pare precipitare, anche se lei ha sempre una marcia in più.
Da parte sua, Dienwald, il protagonista maschile, è inizialmente odioso, ottuso e offensivo, ma resta un uomo del suo tempo, con un senso dell’onore (e considerate che spesso e volentieri l’uomo contemporaneo neanche sa cos’è il senso dell’onore…).
Se volete recuperare un buon HR tradizionale, eccolo qua.
May 15, 2019
Wow, I guess this is what you call a guilty pleasure. There were some parts of this book that made me cringe but it also made me grin and laugh a lot so I have to accept it: I am (somewhat) the target audience of this book.
Some backstory: I got this book at a used bookstore after trading in my copy of Judicial Whispers (bc I hated Judicial Whispers and really wanted to get rid of it). I liked the summary bc it sounded like some good medieval intrigue romance and also.... something about the cover interested me. I was like "this looks like a purposefully innocuous cover to a book of great scandal, made so you can read it in public without incriminating yourself."
I WAS RIGHT. I mean goddamn. There is a lot of sex in this book. A lot of sexual assault also, starting with an attempt by a minor character on the second page and continuing through the main relationship. Usually this would completely turn me off a book, but it clearly was intended as fantasy fodder (I guess some ppl are into dub-con and humiliation even if I'm not), and also I was on a plane and this was my only reading material.
And there were other aspects of the book I was enjoying. Starting with the main character, Philippa. Every five pages someone mentions how tall she is, which slowly transitioned from kind of annoying to frankly hilarious. (Also I like a tall woman, but that's just me.) She's smart and has worked as her father's steward for some years, but when put on the spot she often acts impulsively--sometimes stupidly, sometimes in ways that I actually approved. This ranges from her jumping in a wool wagon to run away from home to cracking a (empty) chamber pot over Dienwald's head. In general Philippa hits a lot of people in this book.
Also. A lot of this book's plot revolves around wool, and Dienwald's lack of it. Philippa and Dienwald meet when Dienwald STEALS THE WOOL WAGON PHILIPPA IS HIDING IN bc his estate is currently short on wool and all his ppl's clothes are falling apart. Philippa somehow ends up in charge of weaving this wool into clothes, and that becomes a way that she gains the respect of all the ppl on Dienwald's estate. I have to say, btw, I enjoyed the minor characters that inhabit Dienwald's estate--his rude son, Edmund; Crooky the fool; Gorkel the man at arms... just lots of hilarious medieval ppl.
Which, yes, I loved this book's sense of humor. It has such medieval vibes--everyone's making stupid, dirty, or violent jokes, slapstick is a major element, and it's just... fun. It takes nothing about itself too seriously, but at the same time, it's very earnest. Idk. Good vibes.
And then there's other plotty stuff. Royal involvement in the plot! Philippa's dastardly cousin kidnapping her! Misunderstandings! Dienwald generally being a huge jerk (can you tell I didn't really like him)! All kinds of things.
Overall, this is a book where I really loved some elements and genuinely hated others. I left it on a good note so I gave it four stars, which I might later bring down to three. I'm not sure whether I'll keep my copy, or whether I'll try Catherine Coulter again... I think I'll have to sit on it.
Some backstory: I got this book at a used bookstore after trading in my copy of Judicial Whispers (bc I hated Judicial Whispers and really wanted to get rid of it). I liked the summary bc it sounded like some good medieval intrigue romance and also.... something about the cover interested me. I was like "this looks like a purposefully innocuous cover to a book of great scandal, made so you can read it in public without incriminating yourself."
I WAS RIGHT. I mean goddamn. There is a lot of sex in this book. A lot of sexual assault also, starting with an attempt by a minor character on the second page and continuing through the main relationship. Usually this would completely turn me off a book, but it clearly was intended as fantasy fodder (I guess some ppl are into dub-con and humiliation even if I'm not), and also I was on a plane and this was my only reading material.
And there were other aspects of the book I was enjoying. Starting with the main character, Philippa. Every five pages someone mentions how tall she is, which slowly transitioned from kind of annoying to frankly hilarious. (Also I like a tall woman, but that's just me.) She's smart and has worked as her father's steward for some years, but when put on the spot she often acts impulsively--sometimes stupidly, sometimes in ways that I actually approved. This ranges from her jumping in a wool wagon to run away from home to cracking a (empty) chamber pot over Dienwald's head. In general Philippa hits a lot of people in this book.
Also. A lot of this book's plot revolves around wool, and Dienwald's lack of it. Philippa and Dienwald meet when Dienwald STEALS THE WOOL WAGON PHILIPPA IS HIDING IN bc his estate is currently short on wool and all his ppl's clothes are falling apart. Philippa somehow ends up in charge of weaving this wool into clothes, and that becomes a way that she gains the respect of all the ppl on Dienwald's estate. I have to say, btw, I enjoyed the minor characters that inhabit Dienwald's estate--his rude son, Edmund; Crooky the fool; Gorkel the man at arms... just lots of hilarious medieval ppl.
Which, yes, I loved this book's sense of humor. It has such medieval vibes--everyone's making stupid, dirty, or violent jokes, slapstick is a major element, and it's just... fun. It takes nothing about itself too seriously, but at the same time, it's very earnest. Idk. Good vibes.
And then there's other plotty stuff. Royal involvement in the plot! Philippa's dastardly cousin kidnapping her! Misunderstandings! Dienwald generally being a huge jerk (can you tell I didn't really like him)! All kinds of things.
Overall, this is a book where I really loved some elements and genuinely hated others. I left it on a good note so I gave it four stars, which I might later bring down to three. I'm not sure whether I'll keep my copy, or whether I'll try Catherine Coulter again... I think I'll have to sit on it.
July 26, 2024
Reread July 2024: this time I listened to the audiobook and while I normally don’t prefer Anne Flosnik, the tone of this series is so comical and outrageous I found her funny voices fitting and it didn’t bother me
This book was funny, it’s still a Coulter book with an arrogant lusty hero, this one takes pride in being such a scoundrel, and I love the heroine, she’s tall and strong and takes initiative. Guest appearances from the previous book MCs…
This book was funny, it’s still a Coulter book with an arrogant lusty hero, this one takes pride in being such a scoundrel, and I love the heroine, she’s tall and strong and takes initiative. Guest appearances from the previous book MCs…
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January 25, 2024Nemesi - per RFS
.
Ciao Fenici, oggi vi parlo di uno dei romanzi della serie Introvabili, Ostaggio in Cornovaglia.
Ci troviamo in Inghilterra, nel periodo in cui il Re Edoardo detto Gambalunga per via della sua altezza affronta le rivolte scozzesi.
Una giovane e appena maggiorenne ragazza, Philippa, dopo aver origliato una conversazione che la destinava a un matrimonio con un bruto decide di scappare per dirigersi al castello di suo cugino, ma finisce erroneamente nella tenuta di St Erth, quando Dienwald de Fortberry, signore del castello conosciuto come una canaglia, ruba il carro dove si era nascosta. Una volta scoperta viene presa come prigioniera e così inizia la loro relazione o storia d’amore, se in questo modo vogliamo chiamarla.
Purtroppo sono rimasta veramente delusa dal libro, forse è l’unico romanzo storico letto fino a oggi dove non instauro alcuna empatia con i personaggi e non mi viene trasmesso alcun sentimento.
Come tutti i volumi della serie, la trama è intricata e avvincente, piena di quelle briciole di mistero che spronano a proseguire la lettura. Non ci sono refusi e per quanto i protagonisti siano Philippa e Dienwald incontriamo dei multipov (punti di vista multipli).
Ho trovato il personaggio maschile estremamente irritante, egoista e pieno di sé, senza parlare del fatto che dall’inizio della storia fino alla fine chiama Philippa, sgualdrina; SEMPRE anche dopo che è diventata la moglie, assurdo! e non in maniera dolce, anche perché secondo me non esiste un modo tenero per dare della prostituta alla propria donna.
Philippa è additata per la sua altezza esagerata, derisa con nomignoli dispregiativi come: gigantessa, spilungona, strega, ecc.. e non si abbassano mai i toni: 400 pagine di “Dai, tra poco lui si renderà conto di quanto la ama e la difenderà davanti a tutto e tutti!” E invece no! L’autrice ha elevato al massimo la brutalità del periodo storico verso le donne, umiliando in continuazione la protagonista, dall’uso degli insulti fino a essere considerata un vaso per il seme. Ditemi voi se può attrarre una cosa del genere. Anche dopo la rivelazione che Philippa è una ricca ereditiera, il marito le ha dato della traditrice e l’ha ripudiata!
L’autrice ha provato a rendere audace Philippa, ma per quanto lei si dimostri una super donna, arrivata a un certo punto io avrei detto “ora basta!”, mi sarei rimboccata le maniche e sarei andata via; forse l’innocenza dell’inesperienza, dell’età, del quello che volete, ma alla fine il succo è che Philippa ha le fette di prosciutto davanti agli occhi e oltre a dire “sì!” dice anche “sì, Signore!”.
Chi vuole un romanzo d’amore dove la donna viene solo maltrattata come una schiava e una serva, senza un vero motivo, o un riscatto? A mio avviso, un libro a sfondo storico si legge per evadere e per immergersi in un’epoca, non solo per farsi appesantire il cuore.
Considerando tutte queste premesse non mi sento di consigliarne la lettura.
.
Ciao Fenici, oggi vi parlo di uno dei romanzi della serie Introvabili, Ostaggio in Cornovaglia.
Ci troviamo in Inghilterra, nel periodo in cui il Re Edoardo detto Gambalunga per via della sua altezza affronta le rivolte scozzesi.
Una giovane e appena maggiorenne ragazza, Philippa, dopo aver origliato una conversazione che la destinava a un matrimonio con un bruto decide di scappare per dirigersi al castello di suo cugino, ma finisce erroneamente nella tenuta di St Erth, quando Dienwald de Fortberry, signore del castello conosciuto come una canaglia, ruba il carro dove si era nascosta. Una volta scoperta viene presa come prigioniera e così inizia la loro relazione o storia d’amore, se in questo modo vogliamo chiamarla.
Purtroppo sono rimasta veramente delusa dal libro, forse è l’unico romanzo storico letto fino a oggi dove non instauro alcuna empatia con i personaggi e non mi viene trasmesso alcun sentimento.
Come tutti i volumi della serie, la trama è intricata e avvincente, piena di quelle briciole di mistero che spronano a proseguire la lettura. Non ci sono refusi e per quanto i protagonisti siano Philippa e Dienwald incontriamo dei multipov (punti di vista multipli).
Ho trovato il personaggio maschile estremamente irritante, egoista e pieno di sé, senza parlare del fatto che dall’inizio della storia fino alla fine chiama Philippa, sgualdrina; SEMPRE anche dopo che è diventata la moglie, assurdo! e non in maniera dolce, anche perché secondo me non esiste un modo tenero per dare della prostituta alla propria donna.
Philippa è additata per la sua altezza esagerata, derisa con nomignoli dispregiativi come: gigantessa, spilungona, strega, ecc.. e non si abbassano mai i toni: 400 pagine di “Dai, tra poco lui si renderà conto di quanto la ama e la difenderà davanti a tutto e tutti!” E invece no! L’autrice ha elevato al massimo la brutalità del periodo storico verso le donne, umiliando in continuazione la protagonista, dall’uso degli insulti fino a essere considerata un vaso per il seme. Ditemi voi se può attrarre una cosa del genere. Anche dopo la rivelazione che Philippa è una ricca ereditiera, il marito le ha dato della traditrice e l’ha ripudiata!
L’autrice ha provato a rendere audace Philippa, ma per quanto lei si dimostri una super donna, arrivata a un certo punto io avrei detto “ora basta!”, mi sarei rimboccata le maniche e sarei andata via; forse l’innocenza dell’inesperienza, dell’età, del quello che volete, ma alla fine il succo è che Philippa ha le fette di prosciutto davanti agli occhi e oltre a dire “sì!” dice anche “sì, Signore!”.
Chi vuole un romanzo d’amore dove la donna viene solo maltrattata come una schiava e una serva, senza un vero motivo, o un riscatto? A mio avviso, un libro a sfondo storico si legge per evadere e per immergersi in un’epoca, non solo per farsi appesantire il cuore.
Considerando tutte queste premesse non mi sento di consigliarne la lettura.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2019
Philippa de Beauchamp, unlike most of her gender and age, has been taught to read, write, and cypher. She has served for several years as her father’s steward. She is content with her life and aware that she will have no dowry. When one of her sister’s suitors assaults her, her father affirms that she will have no dowry and reveals she has already been pledged to the old, toothless, unpleasant William de Bridgport.
Without thinking, Philippa runs away, hiding in a wool wagon heading for market. Unfortunately for Philippa, the wagons are stolen by Dienwald de Fortenberry, and she becomes his prisoner. As we know, opposites attract as do prisoners and their captors. The romance gets some added complications from royal ambition, sinister relatives, and spies. There is humor amidst the romance. Enjoyable.
Readalikes:
Julie Garwood – Shadow Music; Karen Marie Moning – The Dark Highlander; Judith McNaught - A Kingdom of Dreams; Elizabeth Lowell – Forbidden; Amanda Quick – Desire; Johanna Lindsey – Defy Not the Heart; Iris Johansen - Midnight Warrior; Lynsay Sands – The Brat; Anne Stuart – Hidden Honor.
Pace: Fast
Characters: Dimensional characters; strong woman
Story: Character-driven
Writing style: Engaging, humorous
Tone: Romantic; Steamy
Frame: Cornwall; 1275
Theme: Love in disguise
Without thinking, Philippa runs away, hiding in a wool wagon heading for market. Unfortunately for Philippa, the wagons are stolen by Dienwald de Fortenberry, and she becomes his prisoner. As we know, opposites attract as do prisoners and their captors. The romance gets some added complications from royal ambition, sinister relatives, and spies. There is humor amidst the romance. Enjoyable.
Readalikes:
Julie Garwood – Shadow Music; Karen Marie Moning – The Dark Highlander; Judith McNaught - A Kingdom of Dreams; Elizabeth Lowell – Forbidden; Amanda Quick – Desire; Johanna Lindsey – Defy Not the Heart; Iris Johansen - Midnight Warrior; Lynsay Sands – The Brat; Anne Stuart – Hidden Honor.
Pace: Fast
Characters: Dimensional characters; strong woman
Story: Character-driven
Writing style: Engaging, humorous
Tone: Romantic; Steamy
Frame: Cornwall; 1275
Theme: Love in disguise
July 27, 2019
Loved this story. Earth Song is another great novel in this series.
December 19, 2023
4+ stelle
August 28, 2012
An Entertaining Installment in the Song Series
Third in the Song series, and like the others set in 13th century England (Cornwall), this tells the story of Philippa de Beauchamp, very tall and impulsive daughter of Lord Henry. When she overhears her father planning to wed her to an old man, she runs away and ends up in the castle of Dienwald de Fortenberry, whom we met in FIRE SONG. Dienwald’s castle is rundown and his people and he dress in rags (which I didn’t like and felt was unrealistic). Held as Dienwald’s captive, Philippa brings an order to the castle and its people and with the wool Dienwald stole from her father, she manages to clothe the people. Of course, Dienwald who seems to sleep with all the women in his domain, lusts after Philippa.
This one seemed more fanciful to me, especially given the multiple times Philippa was naked in front of people and naked sleeping with Dienwald (ostensibly because he was worried she’d run away…what? No guards?). It may also have been the dialog which I think Coulter intended to be tongue in cheek since she told me to be prepared to laugh when I read it. The chemistry between the two was late in coming and two thirds of the way through the book Deinwald thinks the worst of Philippa and is still constantly berating her as being “over large” and having big feet. (Again, since she was a beautiful girl who, we learn early on, is actually King Edward’s illegitimate daughter, I assume his criticism was also tongue in cheek.)
It’s a clever plot in many ways and Coulter serves up witty dialog and some new characters though you might not recognize the serious Deinwald we met in book 2, FIRE SONG. (Of the series thus far, I liked WARRIOR’S SONG best.) Still, it’s entertaining and I can recommend it.
The Medieval Song Series:
WARRIOR'S SONG (earlier version titled CHANDRA)
FIRE SONG
EARTH SONG
SECRET SONG
Third in the Song series, and like the others set in 13th century England (Cornwall), this tells the story of Philippa de Beauchamp, very tall and impulsive daughter of Lord Henry. When she overhears her father planning to wed her to an old man, she runs away and ends up in the castle of Dienwald de Fortenberry, whom we met in FIRE SONG. Dienwald’s castle is rundown and his people and he dress in rags (which I didn’t like and felt was unrealistic). Held as Dienwald’s captive, Philippa brings an order to the castle and its people and with the wool Dienwald stole from her father, she manages to clothe the people. Of course, Dienwald who seems to sleep with all the women in his domain, lusts after Philippa.
This one seemed more fanciful to me, especially given the multiple times Philippa was naked in front of people and naked sleeping with Dienwald (ostensibly because he was worried she’d run away…what? No guards?). It may also have been the dialog which I think Coulter intended to be tongue in cheek since she told me to be prepared to laugh when I read it. The chemistry between the two was late in coming and two thirds of the way through the book Deinwald thinks the worst of Philippa and is still constantly berating her as being “over large” and having big feet. (Again, since she was a beautiful girl who, we learn early on, is actually King Edward’s illegitimate daughter, I assume his criticism was also tongue in cheek.)
It’s a clever plot in many ways and Coulter serves up witty dialog and some new characters though you might not recognize the serious Deinwald we met in book 2, FIRE SONG. (Of the series thus far, I liked WARRIOR’S SONG best.) Still, it’s entertaining and I can recommend it.
The Medieval Song Series:
WARRIOR'S SONG (earlier version titled CHANDRA)
FIRE SONG
EARTH SONG
SECRET SONG
August 19, 2017
This is #3 in the series. A medieval. If you want to read the rest of the series after reading this one, read the reviews first. CC has a real problem with her heroines & usually has them raped & abused (mostly by the "hero"). This one fortunately is without heroine abuse.
Copyright 1990, my copy is a reissue from 1999. CC has a forward about how she didn't have to rewrite anything. In fact, she states, "If you don't hold your sides with laughter, then there's something very wrong with you, trust me on this one." Really? Something wrong with ME? I have a problem with that statement, because obviously my opinion is my own. The problem will be yours, CC when I get on Goodreads & diss your book.
Actually, this is a good story, so I won't be dissing today. Philippa is a fun heroine. Although she's frustrating because, as we're reminded ad nauseum, she thinks with her feet instead of her head. This leads to her TSTL moment at the beginning of the story. In her defense, she's barely 18. However, the hero points out she should be already married, with a baby at her breast.
Dienwald is funny & has a quick wit. He can be when pushed a very dangerous man. The fates are kind to Philippa & she ends up at Dienwald's keep.
CC is a talented author & when rape isn't in the story, she spins a good tale. The secondary characters are just as important as the main ones. Humor is a big part of this, which is always welcome. I didn't hold my sides with laughter though ;)
Copyright 1990, my copy is a reissue from 1999. CC has a forward about how she didn't have to rewrite anything. In fact, she states, "If you don't hold your sides with laughter, then there's something very wrong with you, trust me on this one." Really? Something wrong with ME? I have a problem with that statement, because obviously my opinion is my own. The problem will be yours, CC when I get on Goodreads & diss your book.
Actually, this is a good story, so I won't be dissing today. Philippa is a fun heroine. Although she's frustrating because, as we're reminded ad nauseum, she thinks with her feet instead of her head. This leads to her TSTL moment at the beginning of the story. In her defense, she's barely 18. However, the hero points out she should be already married, with a baby at her breast.
Dienwald is funny & has a quick wit. He can be when pushed a very dangerous man. The fates are kind to Philippa & she ends up at Dienwald's keep.
CC is a talented author & when rape isn't in the story, she spins a good tale. The secondary characters are just as important as the main ones. Humor is a big part of this, which is always welcome. I didn't hold my sides with laughter though ;)
December 12, 2013
A perfect book to read on a LONG road trip. Didn't take tons of brain power, big enough print I didn't make myself sick reading in the car, and enjoyable characters. A few years ago, I read a reviewer talking about a Rom-Com movie and saying, "you know how ending is going to be...the interesting part is in the journey" and I totally agree with that in romance novels too. I knew Philippa de Beauchamp and Dienwald de Fortenberry would end up together for a happily ever after (no, I don't consider that a "spoiler"), but there were still fun and surprises before we got there.
August 18, 2012
This was an ok book. However, I found myself wanting to skip ahead and get to the story itself. It seemed to move rather slowly and I did find myself skipping whole paragraphs.
August 29, 2019
So silly
October 1, 2019
Book to pass the time
This was an okay read. I wasn't impressed, yet it made me laugh at times, so I gave three stars.
This was an okay read. I wasn't impressed, yet it made me laugh at times, so I gave three stars.
August 19, 2020
Completely old school romance, that is not as palatable as it would have been had I read it years ago.
Not for the fainthearted.
Not for the fainthearted.
June 2, 2025
An unusual near-illiterate hero Dienwald is deemed to be bright in his own way by heroine Philippa who herself is better educated, capable of acting as a castle steward keeping accounts. He does show a certain canniness and enjoys crossing verbal (and physical) swords with the lady in distress who ends up accidentally in his castle.
However, much as Dienwald relishes his rogue (sometime thief) status, it seems juvenile to cherish his "freedom" from any oversight (with his dependents including a young son and heir going about in rags) over the unwanted and serendipitous elevation to relative of the King through his. somewhat reluctant marriage. The "running away from home" and tantrum he throws near the end of the book over Philippa's imagined perfidy make him look younger than his son who shows more good sense about her loyalty and previous good deeds. Instead of roguish, Dienwald ends up looking peevish and selfish, not thinking of his responsibilities to the greater good or his wife and one wonders what an accomplished Philippa would continue to see in him except good sex. Even that seems less convincing when one partner has made a fool of himself.
The epilogue tries to have it both ways, that Dienwald has grudgingly taken on his new responsibilities while recruiting Philippa to some thieving shenanigans to keep his roguishness intact. In an attempt to draw an entertaining hero like no other, the author tipped the balance too far into anti-hero territory. One felt as though womanly practical Philippa was going to be the mainstay of the household instead of the still boyish new earl. Different, not as romantic, though undoubtedly reflective of some male-female pairings through the ages.
However, much as Dienwald relishes his rogue (sometime thief) status, it seems juvenile to cherish his "freedom" from any oversight (with his dependents including a young son and heir going about in rags) over the unwanted and serendipitous elevation to relative of the King through his. somewhat reluctant marriage. The "running away from home" and tantrum he throws near the end of the book over Philippa's imagined perfidy make him look younger than his son who shows more good sense about her loyalty and previous good deeds. Instead of roguish, Dienwald ends up looking peevish and selfish, not thinking of his responsibilities to the greater good or his wife and one wonders what an accomplished Philippa would continue to see in him except good sex. Even that seems less convincing when one partner has made a fool of himself.
The epilogue tries to have it both ways, that Dienwald has grudgingly taken on his new responsibilities while recruiting Philippa to some thieving shenanigans to keep his roguishness intact. In an attempt to draw an entertaining hero like no other, the author tipped the balance too far into anti-hero territory. One felt as though womanly practical Philippa was going to be the mainstay of the household instead of the still boyish new earl. Different, not as romantic, though undoubtedly reflective of some male-female pairings through the ages.
July 11, 2022
13th century romance? Yes, please!
Is it for everyone? No. The characters have 13th century views because, duh! they're in the 13th century.
I loved Philippa (can relate to the tall girl comments), loved the stubborn Dienwald and his rude little son Edmund (never failed to make me laugh), I loved the comedy and the pace of the story.
Girl runs away from home, lands in the hands of guy. Guy takes her captive, they fight a lot, they start to fall for each other. STUFF HAPPENS , happy ending.
Everything about this book was just so entertaining, I had to read the rest of the series. I laughed so much and couldn't put it down. I have read it over five times and every time I love it just as much. Is it my favorite of the series? I'd have to say it is a tie with Warrior's Song.
Enemies to lovers: check!
Secret identity: check!
Witty dialogue: check!
Romance: check!
Humor: check!
Sex scenes: check!
Medieval setting: check!
It had everything I enjoy in a book so 5/5 from me :)
Is it for everyone? No. The characters have 13th century views because, duh! they're in the 13th century.
I loved Philippa (can relate to the tall girl comments), loved the stubborn Dienwald and his rude little son Edmund (never failed to make me laugh), I loved the comedy and the pace of the story.
Girl runs away from home, lands in the hands of guy. Guy takes her captive, they fight a lot, they start to fall for each other. STUFF HAPPENS , happy ending.
Everything about this book was just so entertaining, I had to read the rest of the series. I laughed so much and couldn't put it down. I have read it over five times and every time I love it just as much. Is it my favorite of the series? I'd have to say it is a tie with Warrior's Song.
Enemies to lovers: check!
Secret identity: check!
Witty dialogue: check!
Romance: check!
Humor: check!
Sex scenes: check!
Medieval setting: check!
It had everything I enjoy in a book so 5/5 from me :)
December 4, 2024
This is a delightful 13th-century romance set in Cornwall, England. When Philippa finds out that her father is planning to marry her off to an old disgusting toad of a man, she runs away, hoping to get to her cousin's place for safety. She doesn't make it, when the wagon of wool she is hiding in is confiscated and the drivers ran away and some were killed. She finds herself at the estate of Dienwald, who is known to be a rogue but yet an honest man in some ways. Through more kidnappings and horrible happenings, she comes to unexpectedly fall in love with him, not knowing that there is a big surprise about herself that she doesn't know, and which changes everything.
November 12, 2023
Philippa is determined not to marry the man her father has selected and flees his castle. Deinwald, a lovable rogue type, captures her and takes her back to his castle for ransom. Meanwhile, it turns out that Philippa is not who she thought she was and there's much more at stake here than at first glance.
I liked both Philippa and Deinwald, and the story was quite good with King Edward III making an appearance. As usual, the historical details were excellent and I liked the story more than the previous two books in the series.
I liked both Philippa and Deinwald, and the story was quite good with King Edward III making an appearance. As usual, the historical details were excellent and I liked the story more than the previous two books in the series.
February 21, 2020
A daughter that had no idea who her father was.
Philippe was raised by Lord Henry and Lady Maude. Her sister, Bernice, was to marry. Philippe listened to her father tell Bernices fiance that she was to betrothed to William Dr Bridgepart. Philippe knew nothing of this. She decided to leave her father's Castle, she didn't want to marry this old miserable man. So she hides herself in a wagon of wool.
Philippe was raised by Lord Henry and Lady Maude. Her sister, Bernice, was to marry. Philippe listened to her father tell Bernices fiance that she was to betrothed to William Dr Bridgepart. Philippe knew nothing of this. She decided to leave her father's Castle, she didn't want to marry this old miserable man. So she hides herself in a wagon of wool.
January 3, 2026
DNF 73%. Both H and h behaved like children. Philippa got better as the story progressed. She was rash and immature in the beginning, but there was some improvement later (lady of the castle). And then she all of the sudden she is in love. In spite of Dienwald's constant degradation (keeping her naked/undressing, fingering and namecalling).
Pity, because I liked the premise and the world building was good.
Pity, because I liked the premise and the world building was good.
July 7, 2019
An Entertaining Song
Earth Song has been my favorite out of the series so far. Phillippa is stubborn, but endearing. She’s impulsive, but not impulsive, and childlike as previous leading lady Kassia from book 2. Phillipa is a bit more fiery, and witty.
I devoured this book in a day and a half.
Earth Song has been my favorite out of the series so far. Phillippa is stubborn, but endearing. She’s impulsive, but not impulsive, and childlike as previous leading lady Kassia from book 2. Phillipa is a bit more fiery, and witty.
I devoured this book in a day and a half.
August 27, 2020
Excellent
Mrs. Counter writes GREAT historical fiction. So far, this is my second favorite after Rosehaven. I like the scoundrel Dienwald and his little boy. It sounds like the people of St. Earth were just waiting for a mistress to arrive. I hope you read this and enjoy it. Happy Reading.
Mrs. Counter writes GREAT historical fiction. So far, this is my second favorite after Rosehaven. I like the scoundrel Dienwald and his little boy. It sounds like the people of St. Earth were just waiting for a mistress to arrive. I hope you read this and enjoy it. Happy Reading.
May 4, 2021
This book is enjoyable to read and had some laugh out loud moments and fun characters. Strong heroine and sweet romance. Would recommend this book to a friend.
Check out our in-depth review in our podcast Questionable History: https://anchor.fm/questionablehistory...
Check out our in-depth review in our podcast Questionable History: https://anchor.fm/questionablehistory...
April 11, 2023
Fabulous read
I give this book a ten out of ten I couldn't put it down. It was a perfect way to end the series. I really enjoyed all three books even when I wanted to kill the husbands occasionally. I couldn't put them down the books that is. Catherine I have always enjoyed your books. Please keep them coming.
I give this book a ten out of ten I couldn't put it down. It was a perfect way to end the series. I really enjoyed all three books even when I wanted to kill the husbands occasionally. I couldn't put them down the books that is. Catherine I have always enjoyed your books. Please keep them coming.
January 3, 2025
Excellent
A medieval romance with twists that reflect those of tales like The Importance of Being Earnest. I loved how the POV complemented the varying storylines that led to the climax! All in all a great story with lots of spice.
A medieval romance with twists that reflect those of tales like The Importance of Being Earnest. I loved how the POV complemented the varying storylines that led to the climax! All in all a great story with lots of spice.
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