Age Group: 13+ for reading level
Description: The time
is the Middle Ages, a time of clashing arms, valiant knights, and intriguing
castles. Join Robert Fitz Hasseltine, a young nobleman of unchallenged
character and the heir to his uncle's vast earldom. Valiant, yet merciful,
Robert's steadfast determination to aid the weak brings him face to face with
several individuals who urgently need his protective care --individuals who
must throw themselves upon his compassion and rely on his strength to overcome
their pasts and lead successful lives.
Yet the days are
volatile, and danger lurks on the horizon. There are dangerous enemies who hate
Robert's steadfast character and ever-present mercy -- enemies who would do
anything to vanquish his compassion and shower their malice upon his cause. A
thrilling adventure commences, coupling victory, peril, friendship, and
rivalry. During his eventful journey from squire to knight to earl, Robert's
courage is strongly tested and his strength challenged. Will he be able to
overcome the enemies that beset him and proclaim himself the undisputed lord of
his shire? And, above all, will he abide true to his resolve and prove to be a
kind, considerate master?
Books set in the Middle Ages are some of my favorite. Ever
since I was eleven I have had a great interest in this time period. When Alicia
offered me a copy of her book, I was very excited about getting to read a book
set in the Middle Ages by a homeschooler.
This book is a little harder to read for a very impressive
reason-- Alicia not only writes about the Middle Ages, she wrote it in an older
English style. However, those who read the KJV, or a lot of G.A. Henty will
have no trouble at all.
The story itself was wonderful and exactly the kind I like, adventurous
with good Christian morals without being too preachy. Even though it was a long
book, I never found myself bored. Alicia kept the story moving and didn’t let
it drag, like so many long books do.
One of my favorite things about this book is how true to medieval
life it was. Alicia is not like so many authors that ascribe modern thinking
and ideas to all of her characters. I especially loved the way that she had
Robert (the main character) be kind and caring for those of lower station, yet
still manage to somehow give the feeling that Robert knows they are a station
lower them him.
The friendship between Strephon and Robert was by far my
favorite part. The close friendship of these two was wonderful as well as believable.
I would think that boys and parents of sons will find their friendship and loyalty
a refreshing change from the normal male fictional friendships.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves historical fiction,
adventure, stories with wonderful principles, and stories of strong friendships.
I received this book from the author in exchange for my
honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The
opinions in this review are entirely my own.
Thank you for the review, Sarah! Thank you also for all you do with Home-School Authors
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