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18th out of 117 books
—
207 voters
A Place Beyond Courage (William Marshal #1)
by
Elizabeth Chadwick (Goodreads Author)
The early twelfth century is a time for ambitious men to prosper, and royal servant John FitzGilbert is one of them. But when the old king dies and his successor is appointed, John faces a terrible choice: he must join the rival faction-his enemies- or risk losing everything. His new wife helps him carry his burden, but his final choice will seal not only her fate, but tho...more
Hardcover, 528 pages
Published
October 4th 2007
by Sphere
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22. Pearl Ruled (p108)
Rating: 2* of five
The Publisher Says: The early twelfth century is a time for ambitious men to prosper, and royal servant John FitzGilbert is one of them. But when the old king dies and his successor is appointed, John faces a terrible choice: he must join the rival faction-his enemies- or risk losing everything. His new wife helps him carry his burden, but his final choice will seal not only her fate, but those of his young children.
As the fight for England's crown enters...more
Rating: 2* of five
The Publisher Says: The early twelfth century is a time for ambitious men to prosper, and royal servant John FitzGilbert is one of them. But when the old king dies and his successor is appointed, John faces a terrible choice: he must join the rival faction-his enemies- or risk losing everything. His new wife helps him carry his burden, but his final choice will seal not only her fate, but those of his young children.
As the fight for England's crown enters...more
Aug 20, 2008
Misfit
rated it
5 of 5 stars
Recommends it for:
medieval fiction
Shelves:
read-and-keep-for-a-reread
Chadwick never fails to deliver! This is a prequel of sorts to The Greatest Knight, and is the story of John FitzGilbert, the father of William Marshal. The story takes place amidst the backdrop of England's civil war between Henry's daughter Matilda and her cousin Stephen who usurped her crown, as John tries to juggle his perilous position between the two rivals for the crown.
John's first marriage to Aline (the best he could make at the time in his position) does not fare well as she is weak o...more
John's first marriage to Aline (the best he could make at the time in his position) does not fare well as she is weak o...more
11 likes · like · see review
Ever since I first picked up The Greatest Knight by Elizabeth Chadwick I have been entranced with the Marshal family – be it William, Mahelt, or now, John Marshal. I had heard from many other readers who had read the previously released UK version of this novel that this was a wonderful read and it certainly did not disappoint.
John Marshal is always known for the “hammers and anvil” speech that he gave to King Stephen at Newbury Castle – and this incident leads people to believe him to be a hars...more
John Marshal is always known for the “hammers and anvil” speech that he gave to King Stephen at Newbury Castle – and this incident leads people to believe him to be a hars...more
All I can say is Elizabeth Chadwick, I want more. She is one of my favorite authors. I have been known to buy her books of Amazon UK or ebay to get my hands on them.
This book tells the story of John Marshal, father to the famous William Marshal who has been featured in 2 books by Elizabeth Chadwick. John as the Kings Marshall has a big job. He is the one who keeps his fingers on everything the King and his staff and his followers need. And he has to provide for their needs. When the old King Hen...more
This book tells the story of John Marshal, father to the famous William Marshal who has been featured in 2 books by Elizabeth Chadwick. John as the Kings Marshall has a big job. He is the one who keeps his fingers on everything the King and his staff and his followers need. And he has to provide for their needs. When the old King Hen...more
A Place Beyond Courage is a novel of John FitzGilbert (John Marshal). In the year 1130 John is a royal marshal to King Henry I - young he may be, but through his courage and cunning he earned his stripes and respect and men knew not to mess with him. As royal marshal, John was the gate-keeper to the king - if you wanted to see the king, you needed to get past John first. He was also in charge of the court's living arrangements, the horses, the dogs and hawks - there was nothing John didn't have...more
Read 12/22-12/23/07.
A Place Beyond Courage tells the fascinating story of John FitzGilbert
Marshal,
father of the great knight and statesman William Marshal. As Marshal to
Henry I, Stephen and Empress Matilda, John Marshal fought and plotted and
scrambled to survive civil war for much of his life. A hard man in a
contentious time, Chadwick does a marvelous job of bringing the reader
inside his head and times. The romance between Marshal and his second wife
Sybilla is lovely and the pragmatic Sybilla i...more
A Place Beyond Courage tells the fascinating story of John FitzGilbert
Marshal,
father of the great knight and statesman William Marshal. As Marshal to
Henry I, Stephen and Empress Matilda, John Marshal fought and plotted and
scrambled to survive civil war for much of his life. A hard man in a
contentious time, Chadwick does a marvelous job of bringing the reader
inside his head and times. The romance between Marshal and his second wife
Sybilla is lovely and the pragmatic Sybilla i...more
This long historical fiction novel is probably better than the three stars I'm giving it, but I find that I am not that interested in the heavy battle and name details that a book such as this exhibits. Additionally, while the story is focused around John Marshal, it feels more like a fictionalized memoir than a novel in that it is not wrapped around one story or theme, but rather solely on the life of one man. There is nothing wrong with this format, it simply does not appeal to me as much as m...more
Oct 24, 2012
My Book Addiction and More MBA
rated it
4 of 5 stars
Shelves:
historical-fiction,
medieval-era
A PLACE BEYOND COURAGE by Elizabeth Chadwick is an heart-wretching historical fiction set in 1130. "Based on the true story of John FitzGilbert, marshal to three kings and one empress." What a gripping tale of honor,pride,betrayal,courage,loyalty,and sacrifice. Written with vivid descriptions and characters that will captivate,and hold your heart. *You will need tissues for this one,especially toward the end of the story*. Ms. Chadwick has written a story that is gut-wretching as will as thrilli...more
Aug 08, 2012
Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews
rated it
4 of 5 stars
·
review of another edition
Shelves:
historical,
non-erotic
Originally posted at: http://longandshortreviews.blogspot.c...
It’s a time of strife, the early 12th century, and people are called upon to make decisions, and to swear loyalty to one leader or the other. The price of choosing the wrong one is everything a person holds dear.
The hero, John Fitzgilbert, is a man who knows where he stands. He’s brave beyond words, filled with honor, and irresistible as a lead man. And, he really existed. This is his story, his place in history, fictionalized in a fa...more
It’s a time of strife, the early 12th century, and people are called upon to make decisions, and to swear loyalty to one leader or the other. The price of choosing the wrong one is everything a person holds dear.
The hero, John Fitzgilbert, is a man who knows where he stands. He’s brave beyond words, filled with honor, and irresistible as a lead man. And, he really existed. This is his story, his place in history, fictionalized in a fa...more
The story of John Fitzgilbert, who from humble beginnings as a royal servant rose to become Marshall at the court of King Henry I, responsible for the logistics of everything from moving the court from one location to the next to supplying the authorised whores. An ambitious man, John prospers in turbulent times until, with the death of Henry the country is thrown into civil war as Henry’s daughter, Mathilda, battles it out against her cousin Stephen for the crown. It’s a time of great uncertain...more
This is a solid, action led historical romance. I'm not normally a romance reader, but I make an exception for Chadwick because she is a story teller first and foremost. As she writes stories based on history, it's not as 'safe' as some romance fiction, and certainly not as predictable. Add in a lyrical style and a great pace, convincing characters and a lot of technical skill - she's an author who deserves a much higher profile.
Set duing the Stephen and Matilda chaos (12th century UK) this stor...more
Set duing the Stephen and Matilda chaos (12th century UK) this stor...more
3 likes · like · see review
When I first started reading this book, I had no idea what to expect. Others loved it and raved about it, but I was worried it wouldn't be one I would enjoy. Sadly, I was right in my feelings. While I won't say it was horrible, it wasn't my cup of tea.
The writing was actually pretty good. It had great building of imagery and the balance between dialogue and narration was done well. I just couldn't bring myself to really enjoy the characters or just enjoy the plot. There wasn't a spark of intere...more
The writing was actually pretty good. It had great building of imagery and the balance between dialogue and narration was done well. I just couldn't bring myself to really enjoy the characters or just enjoy the plot. There wasn't a spark of intere...more
I always like Elizabeth Chadwick's books, in fact I imported this one from the UK because I couldn't find it in the US. Having said that though, I think this is my least favorite so far. A Place Beyond Courage is the story of John Marshall, father of William Marshall who stars in The Greatest Knight also by Elizabeth Chadwick, and is memorable for his comment about having the hammer and anvils to form more and better sons when faced with William's execution as a four year old hostage. I probably...more
I have been a fan of Ms. Chadwick's books for a long while now and jumped at the chance to read this newest release. In A Place Beyond Courage the reader meets John FitzGilbert, the father of The Greatest Knight, William Marshal. As Marshal to Henry I, John is in charge of many things including the palace whores. He is a man of fierce temperament and determined to better himself. He marries a young woman named Aline whose guardianship he owns but she is meek and unsuited to his life as a warrior...more
A well researched beautifully written novel full of meticulous period detail. Elizabeth Chadwick brings every page to life - so much so that I felt transported there.
A Place Beyond Courage is a prequel to The Greatest Knight and focuses on John FitzGilbert, the marshall of Henry I and father of William Marshal. An ambitious man, John needs all the intelligence and resourcefulness he can muster to survive, when Henry dies without naming his heir. After Henry's nephew Stephen usurps Henry's daught...more
A Place Beyond Courage is a prequel to The Greatest Knight and focuses on John FitzGilbert, the marshall of Henry I and father of William Marshal. An ambitious man, John needs all the intelligence and resourcefulness he can muster to survive, when Henry dies without naming his heir. After Henry's nephew Stephen usurps Henry's daught...more
Chadwick's historical novels are good because they stick to the reality of what happened and try to explain within the context of the time decisions that seem alien to us. This volume is the lifetime of the parents of William Marshall, John FitzGilbert and Sibylla of Salisbury, who try to navigate the dangerous shoals of the civil war between Maude and Stephen for the English throne. Chadwick does well with the annulment of FitzGilbert's first marriage, the truce with Salisbury and the famous ep...more
This was my first Elizabeth Chadwick novel and I really enjoyed it. I would definatey read more by this author and look forward to reading The Greatest Night. An historical novel based around the father of the famous William Marshall John Fitzgilbert during the civil war of the 12th century. Apparently she only writes historical novels and has a great passion for the subject and the reader can enjoy the book knowing that they are getting historical facts not fiction.
John Fitzgilbert the Marshal...more
John Fitzgilbert the Marshal...more
Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.- Winston Churchill
Elizabeth Chadwick brings medieval history to life in A PLACE BEYOND COURAGE. Rich in detail, she delivers a compelling saga wrapped with courtly ambition, bitter betrayal, and page turning suspense. Chadwick captures the readers’ attention with a subject that may seem dull, yet she is the master at her craft as a storyteller. Chadwick thrusts the reader into Marshall’s moral dilemma of how t...more
Elizabeth Chadwick brings medieval history to life in A PLACE BEYOND COURAGE. Rich in detail, she delivers a compelling saga wrapped with courtly ambition, bitter betrayal, and page turning suspense. Chadwick captures the readers’ attention with a subject that may seem dull, yet she is the master at her craft as a storyteller. Chadwick thrusts the reader into Marshall’s moral dilemma of how t...more
Set during the reign of Henry I and the subsequent civil war between the Empress Matilda and King Stephen, this book sets out the rise to fame (or infamy)and power of John FitzGilbert the King's Marshall. The story traces the difficult decisions, alliances and battles that he must make to protect his position at Court, his lands and the safety of his family.
One of my favourite all time books is Elizabeth Chadwick's The Greatest Knight so for mine, this was a must read and I was not disappointed....more
One of my favourite all time books is Elizabeth Chadwick's The Greatest Knight so for mine, this was a must read and I was not disappointed....more
this is a part-fictionalized account of 12th century England and France featuring the very real John FitzGilbert. the story explores his life both personally and professionally as the marshal to several kings.
the story was a bit draggy in places but the author has a way of making the characters come alive and jump off the page. i formed very strong opinions about each main character after reading just a few dozen pages.
the ending left me with a curiosity about the lives of several of the peopl...more
the story was a bit draggy in places but the author has a way of making the characters come alive and jump off the page. i formed very strong opinions about each main character after reading just a few dozen pages.
the ending left me with a curiosity about the lives of several of the peopl...more
Elizabeth Chadwick is one of the very few historical authors writing today on whom you can rely to deliver historically accurate and at the same time attention capturing stories. A Place Beyond Courage is a prime example of this. Even though the actual events on which this story is based are riveting in themselves, Chadwick adds her personal touch by focusing our attention on figures not as well known as King Stephen or Empress Matilda but crucial in the shaping of history nonetheless.
John Fitz...more
John Fitz...more
Sep 09, 2012
Blodeuedd Finland
rated it
4 of 5 stars
·
review of another edition
Shelves:
historical-fiction
When I think of medieval fiction writers I think of Elizabeth Chadwick. She is the go to author for me and this was another great novel.
John FitzGilbert was the father of the more famous William Marshal. But this is John's book. He was King Henry II's marshal, he was young and went for what he wanted. I liked how he was portrayed, even in his darkest moments. Because in the end you can't know what he thought and felt and I felt what she wrote here was very possible.
His first wife was Aline, yeah...more
John FitzGilbert was the father of the more famous William Marshal. But this is John's book. He was King Henry II's marshal, he was young and went for what he wanted. I liked how he was portrayed, even in his darkest moments. Because in the end you can't know what he thought and felt and I felt what she wrote here was very possible.
His first wife was Aline, yeah...more
Pretty much what you expect from Elizabeth Chadwick these days. Consistent quality - good story-telling, and a well-researched but unobtrusive historical 'backing tape'.
This is the story of William Marshal's parents, so a prequel to The Greatest Knight.
I quite enjoy being picky with historicals and finding little faults, but to be honest there's not much scope for that here because the author knows her job too well. John Marshal's rather dull first marriage is maybe more reflective of the avera...more
This is the story of William Marshal's parents, so a prequel to The Greatest Knight.
I quite enjoy being picky with historicals and finding little faults, but to be honest there's not much scope for that here because the author knows her job too well. John Marshal's rather dull first marriage is maybe more reflective of the avera...more
Elizabeth Chadwick is one of the great historical fiction writers, and A Place Beyond Courage displays Ms. Chadwick's talent. Readers will be drawn in and captivated by the life and struggles of John FitzGilbert Marshal. Beginning with his service to King Henry, and then through the uncertain times resulting from the Mathilda/Steven power struggle, we begin to understand the consequences and difficulties that one experienced in choosing and serving a King/Queen. Intertwined in the story is love,...more
This is the story of William Marshall's father, John FitzGilbert, whose chaotic life was filled with war, war, and more war. As England is torn apart by all the chaos, one thing remains constant - John and his lovely wife, Sybilla, and their love for each other. For John, whose first wife, Aline, was too timid to be part of the life of the king's marshal, The marriage to Sybilla is one of political necessity. However, he grows to love this lovely, intelligent, strong-minded woman with great inte...more
One of my favorite times of year is whenever there happens to be a new Elizabeth Chadwick novel. After reading her wonderful, engrossing novel, The Greatest Knight, she now ranks as one of my favorite authors. Her historical fiction has no equal. It doesn’t just state the dry history, but becomes living history. Chadwick uses creative techniques to tell the story including reenactment and akashic records.
A Place Beyond Courage is the story of the Greatest Knight’s (William Marshal’s) father, Joh...more
A Place Beyond Courage is the story of the Greatest Knight’s (William Marshal’s) father, Joh...more
I wasn’t sure how I was going to like reading about John FitzGilbert, William Marshal’s father. John’s famous response to his son being given as a hostage speaks volumes of a cold, unfeeling, ruthless man- or does it? Elizabeth Chadwick reminds us that there is another side to the story and it deserves to be told. True to form, the author expertly weaves a compelling history of the man, and I found myself admiring him even more than the son (if that is possible). John FitzGilbert had to manoeuvr...more
2 likes · like · see review
Elizabeth Chadwick is an amazing author who manages to bring her characters to life with an amazing authenticity!
This is a prequel to The Greatest Knight and The Scarlet Lion. I have not had the opportunity to read either of these, but was able to fin APBC at my local Chapters and snatched it up!
A Place Beyond Courage is the story of John FitzGilbert marshal to Henry I, then to Stephen and finally to the Empress. The story tells of his journey through love, betrayal and his trials in life. EC br...more
This is a prequel to The Greatest Knight and The Scarlet Lion. I have not had the opportunity to read either of these, but was able to fin APBC at my local Chapters and snatched it up!
A Place Beyond Courage is the story of John FitzGilbert marshal to Henry I, then to Stephen and finally to the Empress. The story tells of his journey through love, betrayal and his trials in life. EC br...more
2 likes · like · see review
I like historical fiction and I think that this is good historical fiction because she takes real people and real time and real events and fills it in with the fiction part in a logical way. I enjoyed reading about John FitzGilbert the father of William Marshall and the events of his life. It is a little long but is an interesting read and covers the subject in an entertaining way. This book takes place between 1100 and 1165. If you don't enjoy medieval times or English history, this book is not...more
I decided to pick up one of Chadwick's books after reading so much about her excellent knowledge of the period. Some good and accurate historical fiction was long overdue. I set my mind on one of the William Marshal books, because that promised to be kick-ass (he was the Greatest Knight Who Ever Lived, what else are you supposed to do with an historical figure like that...). But if you're looking for some serious political or military drama, this is not the book for you. Instead, the story revol...more
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| Book Giveaways: Giveaway - A Place Beyond Courage by Elizabeth Chadwick | 3 | 14 | 28 de Oct 19:03 |
Best selling historical novelist Elizabeth Chadwick won a Betty Trask Award for her first novel The Wild Hunt. She has been shortlisted for the UK's mainstream Best Romantic Novel of the Year Award 4 times and longlisted twice. Her novel The Scarlet Lion about the great William Marshal and his wife Isabelle de Clare, has been selected by Richard Lee, founder of the Historical Novel Society as one...more
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18 de Nov 14:58
18 de Nov 20:17