Whilst the period covered by the book fascinated me, I am finding it hard going to finish. At times the writing is a bit clumsy or disjointed which slows any rhythm of reading. I don't think that it would take much of a tweak to make it a more flowing & enjoyable read.

Unfortunately I was disappointed with this book overall. The earlier chapters were too much along the lines of a bodice ripper rather than serious historical fiction. It did improve towards the end of the book....but still...disappointing. Doesn't hold a candle to Sharon Penman's work on Eleanor.

Guardian of the Flame was a great introduction to this author. I enjoy historical fiction, whether it has a romance element through it or not, and this one hit the right balance for me. The detail was enough to create the atmosphere without bogging the reader down in too much 'waffle'. When the book arrived and was marked as a religious book, I admit I was a little concerned. But the religious message was present without taking over the story completely. Well done.