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The Lion and the Crow
In medieval England, duty is everything, personal honor is more valued than life itself, and homosexuality is not tolerated by the church or society.
Sir Christian Brandon was raised in a household where he was hated for his unusual beauty and for his parentage. Being smaller than his six brutish half-brothers, he learned to survive by using his wits and his gift for strategy, earning him the nickname the Crow.
Sir William Corbett, a large and fierce warrior known as the Lion, has pushed his unnatural desires down all his life. He’s determined to live up to his own ideal of a gallant knight. When he takes up a quest to rescue his sister from her abusive lord of a husband, he’s forced to enlist the help of Sir Christian. It’s a partnership that will test every strand of his moral fiber, and, eventually, his understanding of the meaning of duty, honor, and love.
Sir Christian Brandon was raised in a household where he was hated for his unusual beauty and for his parentage. Being smaller than his six brutish half-brothers, he learned to survive by using his wits and his gift for strategy, earning him the nickname the Crow.
Sir William Corbett, a large and fierce warrior known as the Lion, has pushed his unnatural desires down all his life. He’s determined to live up to his own ideal of a gallant knight. When he takes up a quest to rescue his sister from her abusive lord of a husband, he’s forced to enlist the help of Sir Christian. It’s a partnership that will test every strand of his moral fiber, and, eventually, his understanding of the meaning of duty, honor, and love.
110 pages, ebook
First published June 1, 2013
207 people are currently reading
3972 people want to read
About the author
Eli Easton
89 books2,796 followersHaving been, at various times and under different names, a minister’s daughter, a computer programmer, the author of paranormal mysteries, a game designer, an organic farmer, an avid hiker, and a profound sleeper, Eli is happily embarking on yet another incarnation as a m/m romance author.
As an addicted reader of such, she is tinkled pink when an author manages to combine literary merit, vast stores of humor, melting hotness and eye-dabbing sweetness into one story. She promises to strive to achieve most of that most of the time. She currently lives on a farm in Pennsylvania with her husband, three bulldogs, three cows and six chickens. All of them (except for the husband) are female, hence explaining the naked men that have taken up residence in her latest fiction writing.
Her website in www.elieaston.com
You can email her at eli@elieaston.com
COMING SOON:
See what's in the pipeline here: http://elieaston.com/work-in-progress/
As an addicted reader of such, she is tinkled pink when an author manages to combine literary merit, vast stores of humor, melting hotness and eye-dabbing sweetness into one story. She promises to strive to achieve most of that most of the time. She currently lives on a farm in Pennsylvania with her husband, three bulldogs, three cows and six chickens. All of them (except for the husband) are female, hence explaining the naked men that have taken up residence in her latest fiction writing.
Her website in www.elieaston.com
You can email her at eli@elieaston.com
COMING SOON:
See what's in the pipeline here: http://elieaston.com/work-in-progress/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 750 reviews
March 24, 2016
It's been ages since I read a Historical book but I saw a friend's review of this and couldn't resist and I love this Author.
Set in 1300 England,I did struggle initially with the medieval dialogue but the more I read the more I enjoyed it and found the dialogue actually worked.
William first sees Christian at an Archery Competition and is instantly attracted to the beautiful young man.
Christian is the youngest of 7 brothers and does not have a happy home life,so when the opportunity to escape for a while comes along he takes it.
He volunteers himself to go with William to get Williams's sister away from her abusive husband.
Both men know they desire men but neither has acted upon it.They are deeply attracted to each other and being together for weeks proves too much temptation....
This is an adorable story of the two men fighting their feelings but eventually falling in love.
Well written with an engaging plot and two hot as hell Knights....Christian completely stole my heart.
Highly Recommended......
September 14, 2025
I was originally expecting something a little slower, a longer story that dragged out like a carbonated bottle of tension being shaken over and over again. But I got the complete opposite. The plot is very fast paced, every few pages there is something happening.
It constantly jumps from motion to motion. And I really wished it would just slow down for a moment and let the scene play out to its fullest potential. But despite being completely thrown off from the kind of story I thought I was getting, I didn’t think the book was half bad.
Christian (the Crow) is the youngest out of six brothers. He was born with a slim waist and gentle hands. But very quickly did those hands become worn rough with calluses and those graceful limbs bent into muscled shapes made for powering the stubborn string of a bow and wielding deadly daggers. Each of his brothers is just as cold and sharp, all striving for their fathers attention, destroying themselves in order to prove their worth.
Yet even as Christian follows behind in their footsteps he knows it will take him a lot more than just winning an archery competition. He has always been less in his fathers eyes plus he harbors a dark secret that could kill him if anyone found out. But just as the walls start to feel as though they are closing in, a tall, strong, handsome soldier comes into town and presents Christian with a new opportunity.
William (the Lion) is a renowned soldier who goes to seek out Christian’s father and win him over. He wants a small army to join him in saving his sister who is suffering beneath the hands of her abusive husband. However, his plan does not go well and the king refuses to aid him. That is until Christian speaks up to say that he will accompany this stranger in order to gain his fathers approval.
His request is approved and their journey begins. Throughout their wanderings Willam and Christian are pulled close together. William begins to learn that this lean, graceful, young man is not all that he seems. Beneath rosy checks and fluttering lashes lies a sharp witted, deadly crow that can track down and peck the eyes out from anyone whom he sees fit.
My favorite part of the whole book was watching them grow to respect one another and witnessing the way
Christian completely melted beneath Williams' approval. Their relationship isn’t a slow-burn but it’s not an instant-lust either. They tend to both peel back the layers and it doesn’t take long for Christian to realize that Willam also shares his dark secret. And they build something beautiful out of their most hated parts of themselves.
I also have to mention the writing. I absolutely loved all the imagery woven between almost every sentence, I paused multiple times just to take in the cleverness behind each comparison. So, despite this book not being completely what I expected I have to give it something. It was really well done and I enjoyed myself.
BUT THAT ENDING. That ending was brutal, the author had no right to crush my heart like that.
It constantly jumps from motion to motion. And I really wished it would just slow down for a moment and let the scene play out to its fullest potential. But despite being completely thrown off from the kind of story I thought I was getting, I didn’t think the book was half bad.
Christian (the Crow) is the youngest out of six brothers. He was born with a slim waist and gentle hands. But very quickly did those hands become worn rough with calluses and those graceful limbs bent into muscled shapes made for powering the stubborn string of a bow and wielding deadly daggers. Each of his brothers is just as cold and sharp, all striving for their fathers attention, destroying themselves in order to prove their worth.
Yet even as Christian follows behind in their footsteps he knows it will take him a lot more than just winning an archery competition. He has always been less in his fathers eyes plus he harbors a dark secret that could kill him if anyone found out. But just as the walls start to feel as though they are closing in, a tall, strong, handsome soldier comes into town and presents Christian with a new opportunity.
William (the Lion) is a renowned soldier who goes to seek out Christian’s father and win him over. He wants a small army to join him in saving his sister who is suffering beneath the hands of her abusive husband. However, his plan does not go well and the king refuses to aid him. That is until Christian speaks up to say that he will accompany this stranger in order to gain his fathers approval.
His request is approved and their journey begins. Throughout their wanderings Willam and Christian are pulled close together. William begins to learn that this lean, graceful, young man is not all that he seems. Beneath rosy checks and fluttering lashes lies a sharp witted, deadly crow that can track down and peck the eyes out from anyone whom he sees fit.
My favorite part of the whole book was watching them grow to respect one another and witnessing the way
Christian completely melted beneath Williams' approval. Their relationship isn’t a slow-burn but it’s not an instant-lust either. They tend to both peel back the layers and it doesn’t take long for Christian to realize that Willam also shares his dark secret. And they build something beautiful out of their most hated parts of themselves.
I also have to mention the writing. I absolutely loved all the imagery woven between almost every sentence, I paused multiple times just to take in the cleverness behind each comparison. So, despite this book not being completely what I expected I have to give it something. It was really well done and I enjoyed myself.
BUT THAT ENDING. That ending was brutal, the author had no right to crush my heart like that.
March 6, 2015
*Review for the revised, expanded edition from Dreamspinner Press*
**3.5 stars**
Eli Easton!! That ending... I'm so upset right now that I'm docking 1/2 a star because of it. Why did you have to do that to a girl?!?!?!?
I've never read a historical that was THIS historical. We are talking 1200s, people. However, I'm a HUGE Eli Easton fan (she ranks in my top 5 favorite M/M authors) and so I had to give this one a try. I had never read this story when it was in its original incarnation, so I won't be able to compare old vs new. However, this version... it was really special.
M/M Historicals are sometimes hard for me to stomach because of the dangers associated with homosexuality. It gives me a queazy feeling to think about, and even more so in this story. However, I had faith that this author could pull it off and she TOTALLY did.
I enjoyed the fact that this was a slow burn romance with lots of time for character development. I got to learn a lot about Christian and William and really see their chemistry happen organically. The beginnings of the story were pure magic, and though the novella veered a little towards the outlandish side towards the end, I think that the plot was really well done.
My main complaint was the epilogue, strangely enough. It went on and on and ON through time. I didn't need to read about each event that happened after the HEA, especially because the main couple fought so hard to have their happy ending. I kind of wanted to leave it at that, and just picture Christian and William running off into the Scottish sunset together.
However, if you are a fan of historicals, especially knights that just happen to be virgins, you should try this little one. But grab tissues, just in case.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
**3.5 stars**
Eli Easton!! That ending... I'm so upset right now that I'm docking 1/2 a star because of it. Why did you have to do that to a girl?!?!?!?
I've never read a historical that was THIS historical. We are talking 1200s, people. However, I'm a HUGE Eli Easton fan (she ranks in my top 5 favorite M/M authors) and so I had to give this one a try. I had never read this story when it was in its original incarnation, so I won't be able to compare old vs new. However, this version... it was really special.
M/M Historicals are sometimes hard for me to stomach because of the dangers associated with homosexuality. It gives me a queazy feeling to think about, and even more so in this story. However, I had faith that this author could pull it off and she TOTALLY did.
I enjoyed the fact that this was a slow burn romance with lots of time for character development. I got to learn a lot about Christian and William and really see their chemistry happen organically. The beginnings of the story were pure magic, and though the novella veered a little towards the outlandish side towards the end, I think that the plot was really well done.
My main complaint was the epilogue, strangely enough. It went on and on and ON through time. I didn't need to read about each event that happened after the HEA, especially because the main couple fought so hard to have their happy ending. I kind of wanted to leave it at that, and just picture Christian and William running off into the Scottish sunset together.
However, if you are a fan of historicals, especially knights that just happen to be virgins, you should try this little one. But grab tissues, just in case.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
December 2, 2024
This is a phenomenal medieval gay love story. The ending is perfection, devastatingly emotional yet undeniably epic for these two warriors and soulmates.
England, 1300
Authentic for the time period
Graphic intimacy
Virgin hero
Forced proximity
No cheating/om
HEA (but keep tissues handy)
Sir Christian (22), the seventh son of Lord Brandon, has fought hard to earn his knighthood. He is highly intelligent and resilient.
Sir William (25) arrives at a tournament to beg Lord Brandon for aid in protecting his sister from her abusive husband. When Lord Brandon refuses, Christian, desperate to escape his toxic household, seizes the opportunity to join William on this journey.
From the moment they meet, Christian and William are drawn to each other, though they fight to suppress their feelings. Eventually, the tension becomes unbearable, leading to an intimate and life-altering connection.
“Christian, look at me,” William ground out.
Christian looked.
“Need to see your eyes. So beautiful,” William panted.
“William.” Christian stared into William’s stormy blue eyes. The level of intimacy in the act shattered him.
“You’re so beautiful, Christian. So fine. You should know that. You should—”
The words were too tender, too much. They tipped Christian over the edge.
Their love is a dangerous secret, in an era where homosexuality is not just forbidden, it’s a death sentence.
At just 153 pages, this story is a quick but emotionally packed read. The 2019 updated edition offers two endings: the original, which is light, and a rewritten epilogue that is grittier and heartbreakingly poignant.
England, 1300
Authentic for the time period
Graphic intimacy
Virgin hero
Forced proximity
No cheating/om
HEA (but keep tissues handy)
Sir Christian (22), the seventh son of Lord Brandon, has fought hard to earn his knighthood. He is highly intelligent and resilient.
Sir William (25) arrives at a tournament to beg Lord Brandon for aid in protecting his sister from her abusive husband. When Lord Brandon refuses, Christian, desperate to escape his toxic household, seizes the opportunity to join William on this journey.
From the moment they meet, Christian and William are drawn to each other, though they fight to suppress their feelings. Eventually, the tension becomes unbearable, leading to an intimate and life-altering connection.
“Christian, look at me,” William ground out.
Christian looked.
“Need to see your eyes. So beautiful,” William panted.
“William.” Christian stared into William’s stormy blue eyes. The level of intimacy in the act shattered him.
“You’re so beautiful, Christian. So fine. You should know that. You should—”
The words were too tender, too much. They tipped Christian over the edge.
Their love is a dangerous secret, in an era where homosexuality is not just forbidden, it’s a death sentence.
At just 153 pages, this story is a quick but emotionally packed read. The 2019 updated edition offers two endings: the original, which is light, and a rewritten epilogue that is grittier and heartbreakingly poignant.
January 10, 2020
4.5 Stars
I put off reading this one for many, many years, simply because I’m a scaredy cat and was afraid of the emotional gut punch the epilogue was rumoured to have. I finally decided this week was the week I could handle a good ugly cry, so onward I went, quickly devouring this M/M medieval-era romance in a matter of hours.
And for those inquiring minds, yes, the (new) epilogue did indeed leave me a sobbing mess... but in the best way possible, I pinky promise.
Easton can write, which is of no surprise to absolutely anybody, but it continues to impress and amaze me just how talented she is when writing across a sea of different genres. I’ve always been of the opinion that to write truly genuine, accurate, and affecting historical romance, a writer has to have an extra little something-something in their writing arsenal. Seriously, it can’t be easy to capture the true essence of a time long past, bringing to life the places and the people of eras that are so far removed from our own 21st century life experiences. Yet, Easton has done so effortlessly, here, and I applaud her for it.
Now, the version I read is the most recent third addition (2019), complete with a brand spanking new epilogue, so I’m not really sure how vast the differences are between what I just read and the original free version that was once part of the Love Has No Boundaries DRitC event, but I can say with all confidence that this version was a M/M historical masterpiece — one I’m immediately adding to my favourites shelf.
I put off reading this one for many, many years, simply because I’m a scaredy cat and was afraid of the emotional gut punch the epilogue was rumoured to have. I finally decided this week was the week I could handle a good ugly cry, so onward I went, quickly devouring this M/M medieval-era romance in a matter of hours.
And for those inquiring minds, yes, the (new) epilogue did indeed leave me a sobbing mess... but in the best way possible, I pinky promise.
Easton can write, which is of no surprise to absolutely anybody, but it continues to impress and amaze me just how talented she is when writing across a sea of different genres. I’ve always been of the opinion that to write truly genuine, accurate, and affecting historical romance, a writer has to have an extra little something-something in their writing arsenal. Seriously, it can’t be easy to capture the true essence of a time long past, bringing to life the places and the people of eras that are so far removed from our own 21st century life experiences. Yet, Easton has done so effortlessly, here, and I applaud her for it.
Now, the version I read is the most recent third addition (2019), complete with a brand spanking new epilogue, so I’m not really sure how vast the differences are between what I just read and the original free version that was once part of the Love Has No Boundaries DRitC event, but I can say with all confidence that this version was a M/M historical masterpiece — one I’m immediately adding to my favourites shelf.
April 20, 2020
"Sometimes, what the world asks of us is wrong. And when it is that wrong, there is no honor in obeying it."
I don’t read historical romances, let alone medieval ones, so I don’t really know the genre. I read it anyway, you know, because it is an Eli Easton. I’ve never thought it would affect me that much.
The storyline was thrilling, and even though I knew beforehand that it had a HEA, I was scared and worried for the characters here and there.
Swoon-worthy knights, a breathtakingly beautiful romance, delicious and steamy erotic scenes, exciting fights, and a wonderful ending. I loved it!! I could totally imagine this as a movie.
* I read the version published in Love Has No Boundaries Anthology: Volume 4.
My favorite quotes.
June 28, 2013
4.5 stars
Fabulous, this is the reason why I continue to read and love historical romances. Because they're fun, engaging and dreamily romantic, especially when they're believable and the story flows, holding my attention all the way. Big win, was the mutual admiration between Christian and William bringing their unique skills to win the battle. Christian wasn't a weakling, he was tough, sweet and a great match for William, the trust and respect between them is awesome. Sexy knights and a slow burn romance capped it off for me. So happy about this prompt and story, its one of my favrouries so far and what an amazing cover too. Loved it.
Fabulous, this is the reason why I continue to read and love historical romances. Because they're fun, engaging and dreamily romantic, especially when they're believable and the story flows, holding my attention all the way. Big win, was the mutual admiration between Christian and William bringing their unique skills to win the battle. Christian wasn't a weakling, he was tough, sweet and a great match for William, the trust and respect between them is awesome. Sexy knights and a slow burn romance capped it off for me. So happy about this prompt and story, its one of my favrouries so far and what an amazing cover too. Loved it.
July 27, 2019
Whoa...that was good. No. It was great.
Which coming from me (former self-proclaimed historical hater) that's actually more like excellent.
I always love Easton's writing.
I was instantly smitten with Christian. And fell deeper as the pages flew by.
And William was, well, equally endearing in a different manner.
Epic first kiss.
Heart-stopping final chapter.
And an epilogue that made my eyes misty.
*I wish this was a film....I would adore watching this tale unfold on the screen.
**funny how so many remarked on their age gap and I had to go back and confirm but they only had 5 summers between them. Ha. Guess I don't consider that much of a gap at all.
Which coming from me (former self-proclaimed historical hater) that's actually more like excellent.
I always love Easton's writing.
I was instantly smitten with Christian. And fell deeper as the pages flew by.
And William was, well, equally endearing in a different manner.
Epic first kiss.
Heart-stopping final chapter.
And an epilogue that made my eyes misty.
*I wish this was a film....I would adore watching this tale unfold on the screen.
**funny how so many remarked on their age gap and I had to go back and confirm but they only had 5 summers between them. Ha. Guess I don't consider that much of a gap at all.
Read
August 26, 2019This new edition of The Lion and the Crow from Dreamspinner has about 12K new words added, including new scenes and a new epilogue, plus it's been fully re-edited. I love William and Christian and wanted to give them a more definitive story.
Hope you enjoy it,
Eli
Hope you enjoy it,
Eli
July 24, 2016
Say what you like. You are mine and forever will be.
This is a very simple story. And that's nothing to be ashamed of. Well written, well paced, convincing and straight to the point, it gave me what I was asking for. It took me into the Medieval world for a few hours and it drew me in a relationship full of warmth and affection.
I have to say first that everything Medieval draws me. I'm lucky because I live in the Old Continent, so there are endless opportunities to go crazy when finding those characteristic silhouettes on the horizon. And I also go crazy when there is a M/M story between those stoned walls. Above all when they are not that common.
Christian Brandon, the Crow, is the youngest of 7 brothers, none of which made his life easy. He's been mistreated as far as his memory goes. He is too pretty for a man, but he has learnt to defend himself and toughen up. And he has sinful desires.
William Corbet, the Lion, is several years older. He first sees Christian in the archery competition and his beauty hits him to the core. He refuses to acknowledge it and decides to concentrate on his purpose: ask Sir Brandon his help to free his sister from his abusing husband. Sir Brandon rejects the proposal but Christian offers to accompany William in his mission. Sir Brandon agrees, but with strict orders to get married once he comes back.
I truly expected much more resistance and much more beating around the bush, but in fact both guys came to the conclusion that ignoring their desires was hiding from the truth, and as such, a pointless thing to do. The trip is several weeks long, so plenty of time to form a bond and get to know each other better. William finds out Christian is not a weakling who spends his existence from bed to bed. And Christian is only more determined to get William be his finally and forever.
It's a very adorable story. It doesn't show complicated conflicts or forced twists. There is also a striking stratagem from Christian that was utterly unexpected and original. The ending is pretty predictable and the plot sometimes is too convenient for the main characters, but the important thing is that I lured into it, because the feelings were real. I liked how they get under each other's skin and their feelings develop. There is always a defeatist aura around because of the cruel circumstances and the conviction this is not going to last. But Christian is not ready to resist and let William go after he has found him. This only adds an epic brush on the story, but it never felt exaggerated or lame.
The review ends here.
*************
The killing lesson begins here.
Of course I'm kidding.
Maybe.
I don't want to be the pettifoggery here but that murder was a shitty thing to do. Not the act, because the guy really deserved to get some kind of justice, but because of the making. When you are hugging someone and you have a dagger in your hand, the last thing you should do is stick it between two ribs on the front. It's just impractical. If you want to kill someone from that position, you should stab the back just under the ribs and aim upwards. Do not choose the centre of the back because that's where the vertebras are. Go for the left side, just where the spleen is, because it bleeds nonstop, or for the right side, the liver, which is not a bad option, either. This way is much more effective for two reasons: your blade will not bounce against a rib because, believe it or not, it's damn difficult to hit the target. Ribs exist for a reason so of course they are not useless protectors. Secondly, moving your hand upwards and towards yourself makes the most of your strength, while at the same time you might reach the heart and death is just coming sooner than later. Because that way you pull the person towards yourself in order to trap him, and at the same time you stab him adding that strength in the same direction. Pushing the dagger and pulling the person is less efficient, more tiring and more problematic.
If you decide to go for the front anyway, you need to get away from the person to make space for the dagger, and you lose a little of the surprise factor, above all when you want to achieve a silent death in order not to be discovered. Anyway, the way to do so would not be between the ribs, either. Yes, I know it's pretty impressive to see a sword hanging from someone's chest in the movies, but reality is never that cool. As I said, it's very hard to hit the target that way. If the person is quiet (and thin), sure, go for it. But the person is not going to wait for you to put the dagger in his heart. The most effective way here, and the most lethal one, is to go for the stomach, which is obviously softer than bone. You go for the sternum, just below the xiphoid process, and aim upwards and to the left side of the thorax, directly to the heart. If you don't touch the heart you will surely reach the lung or an important vessel or maybe the pericardium. Whatever you manage you will have enough time to finish him off it he hasn't died yet.
Another possibility is cutting the carotid artery.
I'm of course not a master in the killing area, but with a little of anatomy knowledge and common sense it's not difficult to figure this out. To show you that I'm not creative nor clever, Jamie Fraser gives a lecture about this to Claire in Outlander. That's why it doesn't make sense Christian is a warrior and still does things this way.
December 29, 2024
Hahahahahaha what the actual fuck was that epilogue? Who do I send my therapy bill to? No worries, I totally wanted to take some massive psychological damage and have a cry over a KU book on some random afternoon. Cool, cool, cool, cool, cool.......
This was a surprisingly well developed and tidy novella set during the 1300s.
There is definitely an art to doing a novella correctly. Too often the story is either too simplistic and you're left wanting more, or too much is crammed in and you're left feeling like the potential was wasted. Easton has managed to take a simple premise and create characters and a story that takes full advantage of every page to create an engaging world that I had a great time with.
Sir William Corbet travels to petition Lord Brandon for assistance (ideally in the form of an army) to try and rescue his sister from the abusive man she was married too. The only assistance he is offered however, comes in the form of Lord Brandon's youngest son, the handsome Sir Christian, who is desperate to escape from the abuse of his father and six older brothers.
All jokes aside. While the epilogue did make me cry, I actually kind of loved it and it all seemed very true to the characters. 4.5 stars rounded up.
This was a surprisingly well developed and tidy novella set during the 1300s.
There is definitely an art to doing a novella correctly. Too often the story is either too simplistic and you're left wanting more, or too much is crammed in and you're left feeling like the potential was wasted. Easton has managed to take a simple premise and create characters and a story that takes full advantage of every page to create an engaging world that I had a great time with.
Sir William Corbet travels to petition Lord Brandon for assistance (ideally in the form of an army) to try and rescue his sister from the abusive man she was married too. The only assistance he is offered however, comes in the form of Lord Brandon's youngest son, the handsome Sir Christian, who is desperate to escape from the abuse of his father and six older brothers.
All jokes aside. While the epilogue did make me cry, I actually kind of loved it and it all seemed very true to the characters. 4.5 stars rounded up.
April 6, 2015
This was the most historical...historical story I’ve read so far. And surprise, surprise I enjoyed it. “The Lion and the Crow” is a sweet and romantic medieval m/m historical that didn’t bored me like I was expecting to. I must admit the only reason I decided to read this one is because I enjoy Eli Easton’s writing style. Anyway...The writing, as always was flawless and engaging and a little bit different of course since it’s a historical.
The story is about two men – Sir William Corbet and Sir Christian Brandon who fall deeply in love in a time when homosexuality wasn't tolerated by the church or society.
Sir William needs to rescue his sister and his two nieces from his brother in law who apparently is a cruel abusive bastard. He needs badly some help, he needs an army, so he goes to Lord Brandon to ask for it. Lord Brandon refuses to help him and to sacrifice his men, but he agrees to let his youngest son, Christian help him being his guide.
From the moment he laid eyes on Christian at the tournament, William knew he will never meet a more beautiful person, man or woman. Christian is attracted to William as well, even if he knows his response to this man is shameful.
They travel together and they get to know each other, despite the fact William tries to stay away. They eventually fall in love, discovering what means to be happy, to have love and passion, to have what you always wanted.
Since this one is a short read, don’t expect a complicated plot. The plot was convenient at times, yes, but I was ok with it since it's a novella. I liked the narrative voice and how the story is told. In my opinion the romance between these two men was developed in a realistic way. It was sweet, it was romantic and it was believable.
Despite the short length, both main characters are good enough developed and I liked them both. Both are brave, kind-hearted, smart and loyal. Both are honorable men. I enjoyed the slow burn romance and I think the author did a really great job with it. Their interactions are lovely and their sexy moments are sweet, but intense. For William honor is more important than it is for Christian and he cares more than the other man about what society thinks about homosexuality. I totally understood his point. Even nowadays being gay and admitting who you really are can be dangerous.
Overall, a great read!
The story is about two men – Sir William Corbet and Sir Christian Brandon who fall deeply in love in a time when homosexuality wasn't tolerated by the church or society.
Sir William needs to rescue his sister and his two nieces from his brother in law who apparently is a cruel abusive bastard. He needs badly some help, he needs an army, so he goes to Lord Brandon to ask for it. Lord Brandon refuses to help him and to sacrifice his men, but he agrees to let his youngest son, Christian help him being his guide.
From the moment he laid eyes on Christian at the tournament, William knew he will never meet a more beautiful person, man or woman. Christian is attracted to William as well, even if he knows his response to this man is shameful.
They travel together and they get to know each other, despite the fact William tries to stay away. They eventually fall in love, discovering what means to be happy, to have love and passion, to have what you always wanted.
Since this one is a short read, don’t expect a complicated plot. The plot was convenient at times, yes, but I was ok with it since it's a novella. I liked the narrative voice and how the story is told. In my opinion the romance between these two men was developed in a realistic way. It was sweet, it was romantic and it was believable.
Despite the short length, both main characters are good enough developed and I liked them both. Both are brave, kind-hearted, smart and loyal. Both are honorable men. I enjoyed the slow burn romance and I think the author did a really great job with it. Their interactions are lovely and their sexy moments are sweet, but intense. For William honor is more important than it is for Christian and he cares more than the other man about what society thinks about homosexuality. I totally understood his point. Even nowadays being gay and admitting who you really are can be dangerous.
Overall, a great read!
September 12, 2016
BR with Giulio and Mark!!!
This one goes straight to the favorites shelf. I loved every word. There's romance, adventure, a few deserved killings, and some smoking sexy times!
Plot concerns William
And Christian
and their attempt to rescue William's sister from her ogre of a husband. The two knights fall in love and lust along the way and I am still swooning. Great, great book.
This one goes straight to the favorites shelf. I loved every word. There's romance, adventure, a few deserved killings, and some smoking sexy times!
Plot concerns William
And Christian
and their attempt to rescue William's sister from her ogre of a husband. The two knights fall in love and lust along the way and I am still swooning. Great, great book.
July 1, 2013
*5 BREATHTAKING STARS*
WOW...I don't think I could ever find the right words to describe how good this book is. It was simply... perfect.
"Say what you like. You are mine and forever will be."
"You came for me."
"I will always come for you."
I wouldn't ask for anything to be changed in this story. It left me wanting more of the heart melting and beautiful love shared between these two characters. I wish this story hadn't finished so soon, I couldn't get enough *sigh*. The plot, writing and characters were so incredibly amazing. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVED this book!
Christian and William would have to be my favorite hero's so far. These characters were very well matched in their bravery, honor and beliefs. Their love for each other was so sweet and beautiful to read about.
If you haven't read this book before, then you're seriously missing out on something really beautiful xx
WOW...I don't think I could ever find the right words to describe how good this book is. It was simply... perfect.
"Say what you like. You are mine and forever will be."
"You came for me."
"I will always come for you."
I wouldn't ask for anything to be changed in this story. It left me wanting more of the heart melting and beautiful love shared between these two characters. I wish this story hadn't finished so soon, I couldn't get enough *sigh*. The plot, writing and characters were so incredibly amazing. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVED this book!
My Lion and Crow LOL
Christian and William would have to be my favorite hero's so far. These characters were very well matched in their bravery, honor and beliefs. Their love for each other was so sweet and beautiful to read about.
"I would do anything for you."
Sir Christian Brandon, aka The Crow~
Sir William Corbet, aka The Lion
Mine. Submit. Safe. Last time.
Remember me.
If you haven't read this book before, then you're seriously missing out on something really beautiful xx
August 6, 2019
Epic!!!
Wow, just wow this was awesome!! Can’t tell you many how times I sobbed. Lol. It was so freaking good, very a’la GOT’s, but way shorter. The epilogue was amaze-balls!!
Wow, just wow this was awesome!! Can’t tell you many how times I sobbed. Lol. It was so freaking good, very a’la GOT’s, but way shorter. The epilogue was amaze-balls!!
January 20, 2016
This was an enjoyable and unique story, although I found it a little slow at some parts and it lacked fire for me. The plot was also rather predictable and convenient for the characters. I think the blurb, the cover and my love for medieval fantasy raised my expectations too high. It’s also the fact that being a big fan of ASOIAF has affected me too deeply and I just can’t swallow easy convenient medieval plots anymore. So it’s me, not the story!
June 7, 2013
I am not a fan of historical/medieval genre -- except for Megan Derr's but hers is more fantasy -- but I was very much intrigued with this one for one major reason and one minor one. The major reason? I like Eli Easton's writing style with samples of two of her short stories I'd read. This was her longest yet (32k) and since it was free, I thought, why not? The minor reason? OMG, that cover IS just gorgeous!!!
And I loved it...
I thought the characters were well-drawn; ALTHOUGH I must say that I favored Christian more than William. I thought Christian was smart and oh, so brave. He survived his brother's abuse (most especially that evil Malcolm!!), he stayed honest to his feeling (of loving another man), he came up with the plan to save Lady Elaine (William's brother), and his determination was admirable. He saved Wiliam a couple of times in this story. He totally won my heart.
William, on the other hand, put emphasis a bit too much on honor and what society would thought of him. He frustrated me a couple of times -- knights or not, I wanted to smack him on the back of his head. I realized about the danger of homosexuality in 11th century England but still, Christian was making a very sound plan about what to do, and William just dismissed it *grrr*.
The solution to their problem was perfect and believable (although, it wasn't really "new" since I've read it in a couple of other stories before). Overall though, this story offers good characters, great actions (with swords! and arrows!), and wonderful love story. I am pretty satisfied.
With this, Eli Easton has become an author that I would like to keep my eyes on. I am looking forward to read next novellas and novel-length story from her. Let's hope it's as good as this free one :)
And I loved it...
I thought the characters were well-drawn; ALTHOUGH I must say that I favored Christian more than William. I thought Christian was smart and oh, so brave. He survived his brother's abuse (most especially that evil Malcolm!!), he stayed honest to his feeling (of loving another man), he came up with the plan to save Lady Elaine (William's brother), and his determination was admirable. He saved Wiliam a couple of times in this story. He totally won my heart.
William, on the other hand, put emphasis a bit too much on honor and what society would thought of him. He frustrated me a couple of times -- knights or not, I wanted to smack him on the back of his head. I realized about the danger of homosexuality in 11th century England but still, Christian was making a very sound plan about what to do, and William just dismissed it *grrr*.
The solution to their problem was perfect and believable (although, it wasn't really "new" since I've read it in a couple of other stories before). Overall though, this story offers good characters, great actions (with swords! and arrows!), and wonderful love story. I am pretty satisfied.
With this, Eli Easton has become an author that I would like to keep my eyes on. I am looking forward to read next novellas and novel-length story from her. Let's hope it's as good as this free one :)
September 4, 2021
I had already read this a long time ago and I re-started it.
It was good the first time, not enough for a re-read but the writing was on point!
It was good the first time, not enough for a re-read but the writing was on point!
June 7, 2014
i thought it began very solidly, with some keen promise to the medieval road-trip aspect.
but that last 30 percent was a hot mess.
but that last 30 percent was a hot mess.
June 25, 2013
The mm equivalent of a no-nonsense Harlequin romance. Laughably convenient plot twists and a forgettable storyline and characters, yet entertaining and nicely paced. An enjoyable, fast and free read.
May 29, 2016
4 Stars - an emotional and sweet HR shortie about two brave knights who fall in love
This is a historical short story about two beautiful young knight who see each other and feel instant attraction for what is forbidden to feel.
The bullied youngest son of Lord Brandon, Sir Christian Brandon (the Crow), and the few years older Sir William Corbet (the Lion) are two valiant men on the battlefield but inexperienced in terms of love for another man. Both are aware of the feeling that's inside when they see another handsome man who radiates that special something.
As they describe each other the first time they meet:
# ‘His (my note; Christian's) hair was nearly black, chopped shorter than was fashionable, and bristled on top in a barbaric style. It was a harsh warrior’s cut, but on him it only made a more open frame for his face. It was the finest face that William had ever seen. It was long, narrow, and delicate, with full, quirked lips, a straight nose, a dimpled chin, and broad arched brows over large, dark eyes. His skin was as pale as a bucket of cream. There was a rosy cast on the proud bones of his cheek that any maiden would kill her own dam for.’
# ‘Sir William Corbet was magnificent. He had light brown hair, worn straight to just below the shoulders, serious and kind blue eyes, a square face, full lips, and a closely shaved beard. He looked the epitome of a knight— noble, powerful, and true. Christian had never seen his equal.’
The two knights sets off on a common journey to rescue Sir William's sister and children from a violent husband. And a lovely medieval tale start...
It's cute, hot and chivalrous. Two courageous and brave young men fighting for their love. I swallow it whole and sinker. I smile blissfully my maiden smile and wish the story was longer. I'm satisfied with the end and we get a wonderful epilogue. Read and enjoy!
I Like - and love all boys who love boys.
~~~~~~~~
This is M/M novella is a freebie published June 4th 2013 by M/M Romance Group @ goodreads and you will find it here: http://www.mmromancegroup.com/?p=2687
...and I love the pretty cover!!
This is a historical short story about two beautiful young knight who see each other and feel instant attraction for what is forbidden to feel.
Christian: ~
“He told me I was possessed by a succubus, a female demon that hungered for men. He told me he would pray for guidance to free me from this creature.”
The bullied youngest son of Lord Brandon, Sir Christian Brandon (the Crow), and the few years older Sir William Corbet (the Lion) are two valiant men on the battlefield but inexperienced in terms of love for another man. Both are aware of the feeling that's inside when they see another handsome man who radiates that special something.
As they describe each other the first time they meet:
# ‘His (my note; Christian's) hair was nearly black, chopped shorter than was fashionable, and bristled on top in a barbaric style. It was a harsh warrior’s cut, but on him it only made a more open frame for his face. It was the finest face that William had ever seen. It was long, narrow, and delicate, with full, quirked lips, a straight nose, a dimpled chin, and broad arched brows over large, dark eyes. His skin was as pale as a bucket of cream. There was a rosy cast on the proud bones of his cheek that any maiden would kill her own dam for.’
# ‘Sir William Corbet was magnificent. He had light brown hair, worn straight to just below the shoulders, serious and kind blue eyes, a square face, full lips, and a closely shaved beard. He looked the epitome of a knight— noble, powerful, and true. Christian had never seen his equal.’
The two knights sets off on a common journey to rescue Sir William's sister and children from a violent husband. And a lovely medieval tale start...
‘William cleared his throat. “If you were a woman, I would already be before your father on bended knee.”
~ ~ ~
”Let me have you, hold you, for this long, Christian, and let us be content with our fate.”
It's cute, hot and chivalrous. Two courageous and brave young men fighting for their love. I swallow it whole and sinker. I smile blissfully my maiden smile and wish the story was longer. I'm satisfied with the end and we get a wonderful epilogue. Read and enjoy!
I Like - and love all boys who love boys.
~~~~~~~~
This is M/M novella is a freebie published June 4th 2013 by M/M Romance Group @ goodreads and you will find it here: http://www.mmromancegroup.com/?p=2687
...and I love the pretty cover!!
February 19, 2023
”I wish you could see yourself as I see you,” William said quietly.
Read trigger warnings. That was so much darker than I expected. Wow.
Ooh, this was awesome 👏🏻 only 120 pages, you get a whole in-depth nice pacing storyline. The writing was great and the monologues were so enjoyable and easy to read. I couldn’t put it down.
I personally think that old-style writing has a different affect on me reading it. This was easy to understand, but perhaps the meaning behind the emotions were different. I didn’t feel as intense and the guilty moments felt like just watching two characters arguing on TV. Maybe that’s just me and my incapability of interpreting old-style writing. Otherwise, the writing was impressive.
I love the tension between them mostly. The push and pull, and the secret glances, it was adorable. I enjoyed it. The plotline was entertaining too, when they once get together it was all sweet after it was nice reading such vivid romantic scenes they share with each other. There were some angst, but it wasn’t as intense, but I felt poor for Christian though. He didn’t deserve all of that.
The ending however, wasn’t what expected but it was something that would happen in historical books like this. At the end I thought, yeah it was supposed to be like that for them. It was the best. But I do think some people would be sad by it. Overall, it was a beautiful story about two men who went through such new romantic love discovery.
What happened to Christian…that was fucked up. And even more fucked when they didn’t talk about it. And wasn’t even mentioned afterwards. No depth whatsoever for such traumatic event. I felt dehumanised and I’m fucking scared.
Read trigger warnings. That was so much darker than I expected. Wow.
Ooh, this was awesome 👏🏻 only 120 pages, you get a whole in-depth nice pacing storyline. The writing was great and the monologues were so enjoyable and easy to read. I couldn’t put it down.
I personally think that old-style writing has a different affect on me reading it. This was easy to understand, but perhaps the meaning behind the emotions were different. I didn’t feel as intense and the guilty moments felt like just watching two characters arguing on TV. Maybe that’s just me and my incapability of interpreting old-style writing. Otherwise, the writing was impressive.
I love the tension between them mostly. The push and pull, and the secret glances, it was adorable. I enjoyed it. The plotline was entertaining too, when they once get together it was all sweet after it was nice reading such vivid romantic scenes they share with each other. There were some angst, but it wasn’t as intense, but I felt poor for Christian though. He didn’t deserve all of that.
”Men were ofttimes coarse and unwashed. Women had a brief youthful bloom that faded quickly, like wildflowers in the field. But Christian… he was unique, a rose blooming on a frozen tundra.”
The ending however, wasn’t what expected but it was something that would happen in historical books like this. At the end I thought, yeah it was supposed to be like that for them. It was the best. But I do think some people would be sad by it. Overall, it was a beautiful story about two men who went through such new romantic love discovery.
What happened to Christian…that was fucked up. And even more fucked when they didn’t talk about it. And wasn’t even mentioned afterwards. No depth whatsoever for such traumatic event. I felt dehumanised and I’m fucking scared.
Sir William had never wed because he was hopelessly in love with his sister’s husband— a tragic, romantic, and shocking tale of the sort young maidens love to whisper— well, no one of consequence had ever taken it very seriously. May they rest in peace.
August 23, 2025
NOTE: Reading again as it's been re-released 28/08/19
Yep, the updated epilogue still kills me and makes my eyes leak!
However, the rest of this novella is also still as beautifully involving and historically evoking as it was the first time I read it.
William and Christian are brilliantly realised characters, full of honour and bravery, willing to risk all not only for their own love but for the safety and protection of William's abused sister.
The solution to homosexuality being punishable by death in the early centuries of the Middle Ages still rings true given what we know of the time period and Christian's actions are still well within the brutal kill or be killed way of life which was prevalent.
The adventure is a slow-burning UST filled ride with many stumbles along the way.
Eli has included the book's original epilogue when it was first published as part of the Love Has No Boundaries event in the MM Book Group here on Goodreads.
But, for me, even though it makes me cry, the updated Epilogue is the better one because it covers decades of a lifetime's happiness before a final shout of glory.
I will just say though
Original Review
Oh that epilogue, painfully heartbreaking and yet a herald of a lifetime of happiness at the same time.
I really liked this one, medieval England is a difficult historic setting to get right and there were only a couple of slips in terminology or title.
The killing of Lord Somerfield is a tricky one, required for the plot but still a murder committed with aforethought.
Still, it worked within the story narrative and if it truly had been a serving wench, then self-defence would have been a justification.
William and Christian were two truly beautiful men and their love in a time when not only the law but their immortal souls were on the line according to the times, was cleverly explored.
Yep, the updated epilogue still kills me and makes my eyes leak!
However, the rest of this novella is also still as beautifully involving and historically evoking as it was the first time I read it.
William and Christian are brilliantly realised characters, full of honour and bravery, willing to risk all not only for their own love but for the safety and protection of William's abused sister.
The solution to homosexuality being punishable by death in the early centuries of the Middle Ages still rings true given what we know of the time period and Christian's actions are still well within the brutal kill or be killed way of life which was prevalent.
The adventure is a slow-burning UST filled ride with many stumbles along the way.
Eli has included the book's original epilogue when it was first published as part of the Love Has No Boundaries event in the MM Book Group here on Goodreads.
But, for me, even though it makes me cry, the updated Epilogue is the better one because it covers decades of a lifetime's happiness before a final shout of glory.
I will just say though
Original Review
Oh that epilogue, painfully heartbreaking and yet a herald of a lifetime of happiness at the same time.
I really liked this one, medieval England is a difficult historic setting to get right and there were only a couple of slips in terminology or title.
The killing of Lord Somerfield is a tricky one, required for the plot but still a murder committed with aforethought.
Still, it worked within the story narrative and if it truly had been a serving wench, then self-defence would have been a justification.
William and Christian were two truly beautiful men and their love in a time when not only the law but their immortal souls were on the line according to the times, was cleverly explored.
December 7, 2015
It's a kind of magic, magic, MAGIC!
Yes, no less!
To write such a beautiful and touching story in about 100 pages? I say Eli Easton is a genius!
I loved the two MC's, they where both strong, brave, and kind knights, but Christian? Dear God, Christian just stole my heart!
William, the older, more serious knight:
I only recently discovered my love for historical romance, and this one takes us back to 1200! Yes, to live in this times is hard to begin with, to be a man that loves men? I mean, there aren't even names for them but- " sodomites" ... I can't even imagine...
But it's good that Eli Easton could! She delivers a romantic love story with a beautiful ending (a HEA with a touch of ugly sob)
Thanks Mishy for joining me :)
Yes, no less!
To write such a beautiful and touching story in about 100 pages? I say Eli Easton is a genius!
I loved the two MC's, they where both strong, brave, and kind knights, but Christian? Dear God, Christian just stole my heart!
William, the older, more serious knight:
I only recently discovered my love for historical romance, and this one takes us back to 1200! Yes, to live in this times is hard to begin with, to be a man that loves men? I mean, there aren't even names for them but- " sodomites" ... I can't even imagine...
But it's good that Eli Easton could! She delivers a romantic love story with a beautiful ending (a HEA with a touch of ugly sob)
Thanks Mishy for joining me :)
November 26, 2022
4,5 'wholesome' stars
I had no idea, what to expect but this was somehow so different. Did I expect romance? Yes. Hot sex? Yes. Angst? Yes. Did I get all that? Yes! And so much more!
It was very well written and the story was beautiful but also sad. And tragic and there was so much angst. But at the same time, there was hope and dreams that came true and dreams that stayed just dreams, yet they brought comfort. There was hate in so many brutal forms but also love in friendship and family, and romance - tender, and passionate, and consuming.
And let me talk about the end. I was happy and sad and everything in between. I might had unshed tears in my eyes or I just wished I'd had because it kind of felt right to cry. Ending was real, painful, simply wholesome. I think I'm finally ready to read Axios: A Spartan Tale.
In one sentence: This book made me an emotional mess.
Valor comes not from being unafraid; it comes from the determination to proceed despite fear.
I had no idea, what to expect but this was somehow so different. Did I expect romance? Yes. Hot sex? Yes. Angst? Yes. Did I get all that? Yes! And so much more!
No man spoke to him like that. William was filled with an imperative urge to stride into that river and grab Christian, push him, tackle him, hold him down, make him take it back—those words—to make him… beg. To take him, to crush him, to kiss him. To fuck him.
It was very well written and the story was beautiful but also sad. And tragic and there was so much angst. But at the same time, there was hope and dreams that came true and dreams that stayed just dreams, yet they brought comfort. There was hate in so many brutal forms but also love in friendship and family, and romance - tender, and passionate, and consuming.
“Christian, look at me,” William ground out.
Christian looked.
“Need to see your eyes. So beautiful,” William panted.
“William.” Christian stared into William’s stormy blue eyes. The level of intimacy in the act shattered him.
“You’re so beautiful, Christian. So fine. You should know that. You should—”
The words were too tender, too much. They tipped Christian over the edge.
And let me talk about the end. I was happy and sad and everything in between. I might had unshed tears in my eyes or I just wished I'd had because it kind of felt right to cry. Ending was real, painful, simply wholesome. I think I'm finally ready to read Axios: A Spartan Tale.
The moment Christian was able to tug his arms free, he pushed himself off the ground and threw himself against William, arms wrapping around his shoulders.
“You came for me.”
William gripped him tightly, so tightly his armor bruised Christian’s skin, but Christian didn’t care.
“Were you in Hell itself, Christian, I would always come for you.” William’s voice was choked with emotion.
In one sentence: This book made me an emotional mess.
August 29, 2019
I absolutely loved this story. I love medieval MM romance with knights, honor and superstitions! In the world where only the strongest survive, one of our MCs uses cunning and subterfuge to achieve his heart's desires. Despite the impossible odds two men find happiness in times of brutality and constant war.
Sir William is a mighty warrior who uses his brawn to defeat his enemies yet honorable and loyal to a fault. Sir Christian might be small in statue yet he is whip cord smart and fast on his feet. Two men with different views, two men with forbidden desire for each other fall in love, and even the inevitability of a broken heart can't stop their feelings from getting stronger. I loved how William's animosity slowly turned to affection when he saw how harshly he judged Christian. I loved how they explored each other - both of them were innocent in ways of loving another man yet they gave it everything they've got. Oh, the agony of being separated was awesome. The impossible choices made me sigh. William's stubbornness I could do without but Christian's gentle way helped to sooth his rough edges.
The outcome of their quest couldn't have been any better. The life they've built was the only way to be happy in the time period. And the new ending was fantastic. It was sad yet happy at the same time. It made me smile together with Christian. It was just perfect. I loved the story, the characters and the time they lived in. I recommend it! I read it with gusto!
Sir William is a mighty warrior who uses his brawn to defeat his enemies yet honorable and loyal to a fault. Sir Christian might be small in statue yet he is whip cord smart and fast on his feet. Two men with different views, two men with forbidden desire for each other fall in love, and even the inevitability of a broken heart can't stop their feelings from getting stronger. I loved how William's animosity slowly turned to affection when he saw how harshly he judged Christian. I loved how they explored each other - both of them were innocent in ways of loving another man yet they gave it everything they've got. Oh, the agony of being separated was awesome. The impossible choices made me sigh. William's stubbornness I could do without but Christian's gentle way helped to sooth his rough edges.
The outcome of their quest couldn't have been any better. The life they've built was the only way to be happy in the time period. And the new ending was fantastic. It was sad yet happy at the same time. It made me smile together with Christian. It was just perfect. I loved the story, the characters and the time they lived in. I recommend it! I read it with gusto!
September 30, 2013
Sometimes I can't believe that these LHNB stories are free! There have been so many awesome ones this year but like a lot of other readers this one is way up there in my favourites so far. Lovely slow burning, medieval romance full of UST and lingering glances plus a raw, rough and tumble adventure with some blood and guts fighting thrown in. Delicious! These were hard times full of hard men and I would imagine for most people, rich or poor, a hard life. I felt the atmosphere of the times was captured perfectly.
And it was all set around my neck of the woods... I'm a lass from the north west of England, so who knows they may have trekked through my village to get to where they were going! Awesome...I loved it. Thanks Eli.
And it was all set around my neck of the woods... I'm a lass from the north west of England, so who knows they may have trekked through my village to get to where they were going! Awesome...I loved it. Thanks Eli.
August 24, 2023
Yet another free read from the LHNB event...God, is there no end to them?? And all the ones I've read so far have been wonderful. This is a medieval romp with two knights of the realm Christian and William, 
loved it. 4 stars and 
Not doing a huge review. I loved both of the MC's. Christian (Crow) was extremely loveable, brave, noble, fearless, oh and by all accounts handsome, as well as being the youngest of 7 sons. He had fancied William from afar for quite some time having seen him on the tourney circuit, and when William rides in to ask Christian's father for help
they exchange glances....that's all it takes!! He had family problems...awful father, uncaring brothers..one of whom, Malcolm, was particularly nasty, in fact he was mad,
and when I say mad, I mean he was several bricks short of a full load, and towards the end of the book I was extremely glad something violent happened to him...
William was a very chivalrous knight, honour meant everything to him even if he had to suppress his own wants, desires and needs, and desiring other men just wasn't acceptable in those days...punishable by death probably. He was on a quest to get his sister back from the cruel, bestial moron their father had forced her to marry and was looking to Christian's father for some support....needless to say, he didn't get it but Christian volunteered himself...(swoon, faints as maidens of old did when things got too hot for them
) and the fun begins!!
This Knight's Tale is highly recommended, and I loved the cover!!
loved it. 4 stars and Not doing a huge review. I loved both of the MC's. Christian (Crow) was extremely loveable, brave, noble, fearless, oh and by all accounts handsome, as well as being the youngest of 7 sons. He had fancied William from afar for quite some time having seen him on the tourney circuit, and when William rides in to ask Christian's father for help
they exchange glances....that's all it takes!! He had family problems...awful father, uncaring brothers..one of whom, Malcolm, was particularly nasty, in fact he was mad, and when I say mad, I mean he was several bricks short of a full load, and towards the end of the book I was extremely glad something violent happened to him... William was a very chivalrous knight, honour meant everything to him even if he had to suppress his own wants, desires and needs, and desiring other men just wasn't acceptable in those days...punishable by death probably. He was on a quest to get his sister back from the cruel, bestial moron their father had forced her to marry and was looking to Christian's father for some support....needless to say, he didn't get it but Christian volunteered himself...(swoon, faints as maidens of old did when things got too hot for them
) and the fun begins!! This Knight's Tale is highly recommended, and I loved the cover!!
August 21, 2013
Dashing knights, chivalry, sword fights, castles, damsels in distress. A great medieval story with everything you could wish for
I loved this story, it contained everything that I love from this period. I couldn't have wished for more. The writing made the story totally believable and it was also pure escapism.
Sir William, The Lion, needs to rescue his sister and daughters from the clutches of a cruel and beast for a husband who abuses her. He goes to Lord Brandon to ask to raise an army to fight for his sister against her tyrannical husband Lord Sommerfield. His request is turned down, but Lord Brandon's youngest son, Christian known as The Crow offers his services to escort William to the castle of Lord Sommerfield and there he would challenge him.
Christian had already seen William at the tournament and was attracted to him immediately and this was mutual. They set out together and Christian breaks down the moral defences of William eventually and both give in to their carnal desires. I really liked the way the author made this all totally believable for the time. There was no lovey-dovey romance, but two tough knights caught up in their passion for each other. Though inwardly William is still battling with his demons as at that time it would have been a big no-no. William is chivalrous to the point of stubbornness which only ends up infuriating Christian however even The Lion for all his strength can't deny the feelings he develops for Christian.
Christian works out a rather unconventional plan to get the Lady Elaine out of the clutches of her husband and succeeds in killing him using subterfuge. This was a great idea and just loved the way that this was plotted out. After the rescue William's sister realises what is going on and talks sense into her brother.
"Sometimes, William, what the world asks of us is wrong. And when it is wrong, there is no honour in obeying it."
I loved Lady Elaine, she was calm and collected and said all the things her brother needed to hear. Even Christian realises that he would not be happy living any other life than to be with William. After coming up with yet another plan Christian confronts William.
"William, I have no choice but to live a life of lies. If I go home and marry a woman of my father's choosing, I will live a lie. At least I can choose the lie and find what happiness I can in the sanctity of my own home."
The plot was simple but effective and found the characters and emotions to be believable for that time. The descriptions were good and takes the reader back to a time of knights of old.
It was heading for a five star read for me personally, but then I got to chapter 8 and unfortunately something happened, that try as I might, I couldn't personally totally ignore. It did grate on me a little. The author uses the word bandit meaning outlaw. The word bandit for this period isn't etymologically correct. It was first coined in English at the end of the 1500s bandit deriving from the Italian word Bandito so for this period this word would never have existed. I know I maybe nitpicking and is only a small mistake that can be easily overseen. However, it is an historical novel and this just jarred my personal reading enjoyment a little knowing this fact. After all Robin Hood was an outlaw and not a bandit.
After all is said and done this is a free read and the author has done an excellent job, my comments above are intended as a little constructive feedback. I really enjoyed this short romp back to the Middle Ages and will definitely read more from this author. I also loved the cover!
I loved this story, it contained everything that I love from this period. I couldn't have wished for more. The writing made the story totally believable and it was also pure escapism.
Sir William, The Lion, needs to rescue his sister and daughters from the clutches of a cruel and beast for a husband who abuses her. He goes to Lord Brandon to ask to raise an army to fight for his sister against her tyrannical husband Lord Sommerfield. His request is turned down, but Lord Brandon's youngest son, Christian known as The Crow offers his services to escort William to the castle of Lord Sommerfield and there he would challenge him.
Christian had already seen William at the tournament and was attracted to him immediately and this was mutual. They set out together and Christian breaks down the moral defences of William eventually and both give in to their carnal desires. I really liked the way the author made this all totally believable for the time. There was no lovey-dovey romance, but two tough knights caught up in their passion for each other. Though inwardly William is still battling with his demons as at that time it would have been a big no-no. William is chivalrous to the point of stubbornness which only ends up infuriating Christian however even The Lion for all his strength can't deny the feelings he develops for Christian.
Christian works out a rather unconventional plan to get the Lady Elaine out of the clutches of her husband and succeeds in killing him using subterfuge. This was a great idea and just loved the way that this was plotted out. After the rescue William's sister realises what is going on and talks sense into her brother.
"Sometimes, William, what the world asks of us is wrong. And when it is wrong, there is no honour in obeying it."
I loved Lady Elaine, she was calm and collected and said all the things her brother needed to hear. Even Christian realises that he would not be happy living any other life than to be with William. After coming up with yet another plan Christian confronts William.
"William, I have no choice but to live a life of lies. If I go home and marry a woman of my father's choosing, I will live a lie. At least I can choose the lie and find what happiness I can in the sanctity of my own home."
The plot was simple but effective and found the characters and emotions to be believable for that time. The descriptions were good and takes the reader back to a time of knights of old.
It was heading for a five star read for me personally, but then I got to chapter 8 and unfortunately something happened, that try as I might, I couldn't personally totally ignore. It did grate on me a little. The author uses the word bandit meaning outlaw. The word bandit for this period isn't etymologically correct. It was first coined in English at the end of the 1500s bandit deriving from the Italian word Bandito so for this period this word would never have existed. I know I maybe nitpicking and is only a small mistake that can be easily overseen. However, it is an historical novel and this just jarred my personal reading enjoyment a little knowing this fact. After all Robin Hood was an outlaw and not a bandit.
After all is said and done this is a free read and the author has done an excellent job, my comments above are intended as a little constructive feedback. I really enjoyed this short romp back to the Middle Ages and will definitely read more from this author. I also loved the cover!
October 1, 2015
Review of the expanded new version:
I really enjoyed the free shorter story, and this new longer revision is also a great read. This is the story of two knights in Medieval England, who share a quest, and a desire for men. Christian is young, attractive, and certain of who he is and what he wants. He's fenced in, though, by being dependent on a father and older brothers who disdain him and want to see him married and under the family control.
William is his own man, on a quest to save his sister from an abusive husband. But he's nowhere as comfortable with his own wants and needs. To him, Christian is a temptation to sin, to be resisted at all cost. As they journey together through adventures large and small, admitting their attraction will be a hard first step, and still only the tiny beginning to the obstacles facing two gay knights.
This is smooth, fast, dramatic but for the most part not melodramatic. The ending is satisfactory without being impossible, even for that place and time. The finish is a little bittersweet, but the emphasis is on sweet. If you enjoy light historical context and slow-burning, tender romance, with a swordfight and death or two, try this book.
I really enjoyed the free shorter story, and this new longer revision is also a great read. This is the story of two knights in Medieval England, who share a quest, and a desire for men. Christian is young, attractive, and certain of who he is and what he wants. He's fenced in, though, by being dependent on a father and older brothers who disdain him and want to see him married and under the family control.
William is his own man, on a quest to save his sister from an abusive husband. But he's nowhere as comfortable with his own wants and needs. To him, Christian is a temptation to sin, to be resisted at all cost. As they journey together through adventures large and small, admitting their attraction will be a hard first step, and still only the tiny beginning to the obstacles facing two gay knights.
This is smooth, fast, dramatic but for the most part not melodramatic. The ending is satisfactory without being impossible, even for that place and time. The finish is a little bittersweet, but the emphasis is on sweet. If you enjoy light historical context and slow-burning, tender romance, with a swordfight and death or two, try this book.
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