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The Annals of Lystra #1
Chataine's Guardian: Book One of the Annals of Lystra
I am assigning a guardian to ward you. His name is Roman. . . ."
Thus begins Surchatain Karel's explanation to his daughter, ten-year-old Chataine Deirdre, as to why her life is about to change dramatically. Karel's small country, Lystra, possesses the only navigable river on the southern coast of the Continent. The provinces that surround Lystra want its river trade, and will do anything to gain it-even kill the heir to the throne. So, hand selecting the most capable and trustworthy soldier he can find, Karel places her life in his keeping.
Willful and spoiled, Deirdre sees this guardian only as another servant. She teases and abuses him as he places his life on the line for her day after day, year after year. Deirdre does not know at what point she begins to love him. But Roman knows from the very beginning that to love her will mean his death.
The Annals of Lystra begin with "Chataine's Guardian," continue in "Stone of Help," and conclude in "Liberation of Lystra." The story continues 100 years later in The Latter Annals of Lystra, which begin with "Nicole of Prie Mer.
Thus begins Surchatain Karel's explanation to his daughter, ten-year-old Chataine Deirdre, as to why her life is about to change dramatically. Karel's small country, Lystra, possesses the only navigable river on the southern coast of the Continent. The provinces that surround Lystra want its river trade, and will do anything to gain it-even kill the heir to the throne. So, hand selecting the most capable and trustworthy soldier he can find, Karel places her life in his keeping.
Willful and spoiled, Deirdre sees this guardian only as another servant. She teases and abuses him as he places his life on the line for her day after day, year after year. Deirdre does not know at what point she begins to love him. But Roman knows from the very beginning that to love her will mean his death.
The Annals of Lystra begin with "Chataine's Guardian," continue in "Stone of Help," and conclude in "Liberation of Lystra." The story continues 100 years later in The Latter Annals of Lystra, which begin with "Nicole of Prie Mer.
304 pages, Paperback
First published May 28, 1984
20 people are currently reading
239 people want to read
About the author
Robin Hardy
57 books48 followersI've written a new series! It's a distant sequel to The Annals of Lystra (begun in Chataine's Guardian) and The Latter Annals (begun in Nicole of Prie Mer). This is where it begins:
Thirty-five years after the assassination of Henry, Surchatain of Lystra, the province is no more and its capital Westford a shadow of its medieval greatness. With the fever now ravaging the palace, the army, and the town, a new Surchatain has ascended the throne of Westford, requiring a loyalty oath for all his subjects and soldiers.
Efran, Captain of the Red Regiment of the Army of Westford, is Polonti—a member of the brown-skinned, black-haired race generally regarded with contempt by Southerners on the Continent, including many in Westford. Knowing of the loyalty oath required on pain of death, Efran lays plans to leave once he has recovered from the fever himself.
But Efran is hindered by entanglements with the Surchatain’s two daughters—one who despises him and one who adores him.
He is appointed guardian of one Chataine. When the palace begins crumbling on its foundations, Efran takes his charge and a street urchin to an abandoned fortress south of Westford in the midst of wolf territory. While he gathers more homeless children at the fortress, the other Chataine prepares to lead an army against him for the legendary treasure hidden in the desolate Abbey of St. Benedict on the Sea.
The Stories of the Abbey of St. Benedict on the Sea comprise 36 novellas, each around 50,000 words, that make for one continuous story from the beginning to a definite end. To introduce this series, I'm offering free pdf and epub downloads of all the stories. Each pdf includes links, pronunciations, maps, and an illustration with notes. (The epubs contain all of the above except maps.)
Thirty-five years after the assassination of Henry, Surchatain of Lystra, the province is no more and its capital Westford a shadow of its medieval greatness. With the fever now ravaging the palace, the army, and the town, a new Surchatain has ascended the throne of Westford, requiring a loyalty oath for all his subjects and soldiers.
Efran, Captain of the Red Regiment of the Army of Westford, is Polonti—a member of the brown-skinned, black-haired race generally regarded with contempt by Southerners on the Continent, including many in Westford. Knowing of the loyalty oath required on pain of death, Efran lays plans to leave once he has recovered from the fever himself.
But Efran is hindered by entanglements with the Surchatain’s two daughters—one who despises him and one who adores him.
He is appointed guardian of one Chataine. When the palace begins crumbling on its foundations, Efran takes his charge and a street urchin to an abandoned fortress south of Westford in the midst of wolf territory. While he gathers more homeless children at the fortress, the other Chataine prepares to lead an army against him for the legendary treasure hidden in the desolate Abbey of St. Benedict on the Sea.
The Stories of the Abbey of St. Benedict on the Sea comprise 36 novellas, each around 50,000 words, that make for one continuous story from the beginning to a definite end. To introduce this series, I'm offering free pdf and epub downloads of all the stories. Each pdf includes links, pronunciations, maps, and an illustration with notes. (The epubs contain all of the above except maps.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
January 9, 2012
At the age of 10, Chataine Deirdre was assigned a soldier Guardian named Roman. At first the two despised each other and Deirdre looked for ways to get her young guard in trouble. But as the years wore on and the young princess grew into a beautiful young lady, she began to have deeper, and forbidden feelings for her protector, and he for her. Now, in the midst of an all-out war, Deirdre must decide her course of action, knowing full well how it will effect those she loves.
This is a touching and unique story told in a simple form. It was difficult for me to put the book down, and I was easily wrapped up in the character's stories. I highly recommend it, assure you of its cleanliness and gladly confirm its Christian foundation. I just love a romance set in medieval times.
This is a touching and unique story told in a simple form. It was difficult for me to put the book down, and I was easily wrapped up in the character's stories. I highly recommend it, assure you of its cleanliness and gladly confirm its Christian foundation. I just love a romance set in medieval times.
August 7, 2010
My favorite book of ALL TIME! Every person MUST READ THIS AMAZING BOOK! I am recommending it 100 thumbs up and a trillion praises. Appropriate and okay for children above 10.
May 8, 2011
Read this several times growing up and read it to my girls when they were old enough for longer stories.
It's the basic story about a princess who finds her prince charming where she least expects it. It also has a Christian element, but doesn't get preachy about it.
So often, the early Christian fiction was more concerned about moral lessons.
This novel, on the other hand, is a story first (and a good one), that just happens to have a Christian element.
I would recommend this to anyone who dreams of a knight in shining armor.
It's the basic story about a princess who finds her prince charming where she least expects it. It also has a Christian element, but doesn't get preachy about it.
So often, the early Christian fiction was more concerned about moral lessons.
This novel, on the other hand, is a story first (and a good one), that just happens to have a Christian element.
I would recommend this to anyone who dreams of a knight in shining armor.
October 1, 2016
I loved this book when I was a teenager - my siblings and I all did. I still remember my joy at the unfolding story, my delight in the unexpected romance and my amazement at the ending. Love it, love it.
March 16, 2014
In this beautifully written tale, Deirdre, daughter to the ruler of the country of Lystra, grows up under the care of a Christian soldier (Roman) who is appointed her guardian.
The relationship between the (at first) immature and headstrong Deirdre and the ever restrained Roman is tense from the beginning. We see their relationship grow - as Deirdre ages from a girl to a young woman and has to choose a husband (among a myriad of well-to-do suitors). All this happens in a story line where bits and pieces of family secrets, political and romantic intrigue and news of an impending war are uncovered.
We realize in the end that the book is told on several levels. It is a romance as it concerns Deirdre and Roman, but, written from a Christian perspective, it is also as much about the evolution of Roman's and Deirdre's relationship to their God.
Chataine's Guardian is a tale spun out of forbidden romance, mystery and an interesting rendering of the various forms of love - from infatuation and romantic love to paternal love to God's love.
Though I am no longer at the age for which the book is likely targeted, I am delighted to have found Robin Hardy's book and only wished I had discovered it earlier.
The relationship between the (at first) immature and headstrong Deirdre and the ever restrained Roman is tense from the beginning. We see their relationship grow - as Deirdre ages from a girl to a young woman and has to choose a husband (among a myriad of well-to-do suitors). All this happens in a story line where bits and pieces of family secrets, political and romantic intrigue and news of an impending war are uncovered.
We realize in the end that the book is told on several levels. It is a romance as it concerns Deirdre and Roman, but, written from a Christian perspective, it is also as much about the evolution of Roman's and Deirdre's relationship to their God.
Chataine's Guardian is a tale spun out of forbidden romance, mystery and an interesting rendering of the various forms of love - from infatuation and romantic love to paternal love to God's love.
Though I am no longer at the age for which the book is likely targeted, I am delighted to have found Robin Hardy's book and only wished I had discovered it earlier.
January 24, 2017
My friend lent me this book in 2015. In 2016, I got myself my own copy. I love this story. It's completely amazing. The Continent is to me as Middle Earth is to a Lord of the Rings fan. Nothing else needs to be said on the matter.
August 21, 2025
the age gap had me stressing but the YEARNING!
September 2, 2016
This was my favourite Christian fantasy as a teenager. This book has everything - romance, high adventure, intrigue and a gripping plot. The story centres around a young female child called Deirdre who is the heir (called The Chataine) of the kingdom of Lystra. Deirdre is assigned a soldier called Roman to be her bodyguard to keep her safe. She resents Roman's presence as she longs for freedom. Likewise Roman longs to be in active duty on the battlefield and resents being a 'nursemaid' to a spoilt girl. In time they develop a beautiful friendship as he teaches her about life, character and faith. However as Deirdre becomes a young woman, political threats demand she select a suitable husband to ally her kingdom with. Amidst all the plot twists, a genuine faith shines through the well-developed characters. This is an enduring favourite of mine and a delight to read.
October 2, 2011
I first read this book about fifteen years ago and LOVED it. I have read it twice more over the years and liked it a little less with each re-reading, yet it remains on my shelf. Roman and Deirdre are extreme characters,yet they work for the allegorical content of the story (such as it is). She is extremely vain and selfish and not very lovable, yet he loves her devotedly, as a picture of Christ's love for each of us. Eventually she learns to appreciate and return his love.
To be honest, I think the subsequent books in the series adversely affected my appreciation for this one. But this book can stand on its own. Not the greatest writing, perhaps, but deeply satisfying to the romantic reader!
To be honest, I think the subsequent books in the series adversely affected my appreciation for this one. But this book can stand on its own. Not the greatest writing, perhaps, but deeply satisfying to the romantic reader!
April 29, 2018
I have always liked the series, and enjoyed rereading this first book. There’s plenty of action and adventure, and the romance is very sweet. I like the characters, and the mystery and intrigue of the war between countries. The writing is excellent, and the story moves at a good pace.
One of the best things about this book is seeing how the young princess gradually matures and grows into a young lady, instead of a spoiled little brat. Her character growth is believable and interesting.
I also love how the Christian message is presented along with the story, but never feels preachy.
One of the best things about this book is seeing how the young princess gradually matures and grows into a young lady, instead of a spoiled little brat. Her character growth is believable and interesting.
I also love how the Christian message is presented along with the story, but never feels preachy.
July 31, 2010
This is my ALL time favorite series! I love LOVE it! Everyone needs a Roman :)
August 21, 2012
A must read for all! My grand daughter (age17) loved it also. I tell her all boyfriends have to measure up to Roman!
October 1, 2012
Read this when I was 12 and many times since. True test of faith that God is with you always and no matter how hard things can get, he is always by your side.
November 1, 2023
I believe this book is aimed at children/teenagers (girls) and I think it does a good job at tackling some points regarding coming of age.
Christianity is preached through the pages but fairly rarely as a subplot. Hardy is explicit with the Christian message, not symbolic like Tolkien.
I had a few gripes about things that happened and the potential messaging it gives (spoilers):
The princess ends up with her guardian, Roman, who was an adult when they met when she was 10. Little weird imo. Would not want a daughter of mine to think she should look to marry a 30 year old man at 18.
Roman who is a Christian showed little concern at marrying the princess even though she was not a Christian.
The princess had very little thought about how her actions would affect those around her in her choice of marriage.
In the end she did what was forbidden and ran away and married Roman. She "followed her heart". A little disappointing from a Christian author.
The father was the stereotypical tyrant and the mother a martyr of his wrath, leaving no father figure for the princess. This makes her relationship with Roman even stranger, as he is probably the closest thing she had to a loving father.
My harsh criticism is mainly only because the author is Christian and I'm holding the morals of the book to a higher standard, hence I'm still giving it 4/5
Christianity is preached through the pages but fairly rarely as a subplot. Hardy is explicit with the Christian message, not symbolic like Tolkien.
I had a few gripes about things that happened and the potential messaging it gives (spoilers):
The princess ends up with her guardian, Roman, who was an adult when they met when she was 10. Little weird imo. Would not want a daughter of mine to think she should look to marry a 30 year old man at 18.
Roman who is a Christian showed little concern at marrying the princess even though she was not a Christian.
The princess had very little thought about how her actions would affect those around her in her choice of marriage.
In the end she did what was forbidden and ran away and married Roman. She "followed her heart". A little disappointing from a Christian author.
The father was the stereotypical tyrant and the mother a martyr of his wrath, leaving no father figure for the princess. This makes her relationship with Roman even stranger, as he is probably the closest thing she had to a loving father.
My harsh criticism is mainly only because the author is Christian and I'm holding the morals of the book to a higher standard, hence I'm still giving it 4/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2025
This was a very delightful novel about Chataine Deirdre. Deirdre's father, Karel, appoints a guardian for her, and choses Roman. Roman is a Christian, a concept that Deirdre doesn't quite understand.
This book had the trope of forbidden romance, in a way, to me. Roman is sworn to protect Deirdre until the day she marries. However, this becomes complicated, as Deirdre tries very hard to get Roman to fall in love with her.
I loved seeing Deirdre try so hard to get her father to let her chose Roman as her husband. I don't really understand why her father refused this request, despite his telling her that she could chose her own husband.
I hope to find the second book one day. Would love to know what happens next!
This book had the trope of forbidden romance, in a way, to me. Roman is sworn to protect Deirdre until the day she marries. However, this becomes complicated, as Deirdre tries very hard to get Roman to fall in love with her.
I loved seeing Deirdre try so hard to get her father to let her chose Roman as her husband. I don't really understand why her father refused this request, despite his telling her that she could chose her own husband.
I hope to find the second book one day. Would love to know what happens next!
January 7, 2019
I discovered this series back in the late 1980s. They have been a favorite that I come back to read every couple of years - so much so that one of the paperback began falling apart. A few years ago, my son gave me the 20th anniversary addition of the trilogy. The only thing is that the author decided to add passages and changed one of the minor character's name. I understand wanting to improve your writing, but it was a bit of a shock to find the new passages and I was puzzled by the name change (in the third book). The new passages flesh a few things out - but it really wasn't necessary. But still, it is a favorite. This is the second time I've read the anniversary addition.
March 2, 2026
Chataine Deirdre is heir to the throne in Lystra. At 10 years old a guardian, Roman, is assigned to watch over her and keep her safe until she marries at 17. What follows is a lesson in love and perseverance through trials.
I found this 1st of 3 book series at a thrift store and was immediately drawn to the story. It was obvious that Deirdre represents us and our stubborn nature and Roman represents; willing to die for her.
I loved this story and the allegorical elements. I’m looking forward to book 2.
I found this 1st of 3 book series at a thrift store and was immediately drawn to the story. It was obvious that Deirdre represents us and our stubborn nature and Roman represents; willing to die for her.
I loved this story and the allegorical elements. I’m looking forward to book 2.
March 15, 2023
It was pretty average. The historical aspects were kinda interesting but not amazing. The Christians were super cool! The ending seems silly and kinda confusing. Not a romance liker anyway but this one was even more not my style.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2024
I cannot say enough good things about this whole series! I have been reading this series since I was a teen and I’m in my late 30s and just finished read in it again. I love the story line! Action, adventure and love.
December 31, 2017
I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the next one in the series.
Read
September 9, 2024This is clean romance.
July 31, 2025
Excellent
Thought it started slow to get into, but midway very exciting. Loved it and will definitely be reading the next book in series.
Thought it started slow to get into, but midway very exciting. Loved it and will definitely be reading the next book in series.
September 2, 2025
This is a must read. Clean while still achieving an amazing slow burn love story. There were some really good twists and surprises, too!
December 21, 2018
I'm the dissenting voice here by far, but I did not like this at all.
The scene breaks were non-existent which made it confusing when you'd go from one scene to another without even a double space between the paragraphs to show the transition. There was some SPaG problems as well.
But hands down my biggest issue was that Diedre was not a character I could like and instead of improving or something she got sick and then woke up being slightly better behaved. 70% is way too far in the book to have a character just start to become bearable.
And then of course the romance. I'm sorry, but I'm sitting here trying to imagine having the hots for a 17 year old and GROSS. I'm sorry, but that's a child. 17 year olds look like children to me, they act like them in comparison. And Diedre was not a super mature 17 year old. So the romance between her and a guy who is the same age as myself was not romantic. And he's known her since she was 10. At what point does an adult look at a kid and go, "Yep, I want to marry them."
I know I should say "Age is just a number" but it's not. A seventeen year old is not only different maturity wise, but they're also in a much different place in life than an almost 30 year old. Same thing with where a 30 year old is versus a 50 year old.
I just couldn't get behind a romance I wasn't feeling for so many reasons.
The scene breaks were non-existent which made it confusing when you'd go from one scene to another without even a double space between the paragraphs to show the transition. There was some SPaG problems as well.
But hands down my biggest issue was that Diedre was not a character I could like and instead of improving or something she got sick and then woke up being slightly better behaved. 70% is way too far in the book to have a character just start to become bearable.
And then of course the romance. I'm sorry, but I'm sitting here trying to imagine having the hots for a 17 year old and GROSS. I'm sorry, but that's a child. 17 year olds look like children to me, they act like them in comparison. And Diedre was not a super mature 17 year old. So the romance between her and a guy who is the same age as myself was not romantic. And he's known her since she was 10. At what point does an adult look at a kid and go, "Yep, I want to marry them."
I know I should say "Age is just a number" but it's not. A seventeen year old is not only different maturity wise, but they're also in a much different place in life than an almost 30 year old. Same thing with where a 30 year old is versus a 50 year old.
I just couldn't get behind a romance I wasn't feeling for so many reasons.
August 16, 2022
An excellent Christian middle grade but stands the test of time for those of us that never knew this book existed til well past those middle grade years. Highly readable and it’s a series to boot. I look forward to Roman and Diedra’s adventures.
February 23, 2017
I enjoyed the twists and turns of the story and the time setting of it. Not my usual genre but enjoyed this book very much.
Read
August 11, 2011I've been reading some Christian best-selling fiction, and been disappointed by many of them. In contrast, I am really enjoying this book, especially at first. However, as I read on, I was bothered by the book's lack of internal consistency.
At first it's hard to tell if this is historical fiction or fantasy. If it is fantasy, I wish the main character had not been called Roman, which is distracting, making one think he is nicknamed this based on his ancestry. Also he is referred to as being a follower of the Way, making it sound as if he were a rarity while the rest of them were pagans perhaps. But then it is mentioned that Deirdre's aunt built a cathedral in her town and that there is a chapel in the castle of Lystra. It just seems a bit inconsistent. In Lystra, is Christianity accepted but more of a cultural expectation (like in the Middle Ages) or is Christianity a rare and unrespected religion? If there is a cathedral in town (as there was in Corneus' city), why did Deirdre know NOTHING about Jesus?
There seems a bit of vagueness as to a specific time-period. If this is the early middle ages, such as the presence of a minstrel would signify, why would Deirdre's uncle refer to her having her "coming out" at his castle? This just seems rather anachronistic as do sleigh rides and ice-skating.
I think the author had a good plot and interesting characters in mind, but did not put enough care into the background and the setting for the story. This certainly weakened it in my mind, although I did appreciate the faithfulness and humility of Roman's character.
At first it's hard to tell if this is historical fiction or fantasy. If it is fantasy, I wish the main character had not been called Roman, which is distracting, making one think he is nicknamed this based on his ancestry. Also he is referred to as being a follower of the Way, making it sound as if he were a rarity while the rest of them were pagans perhaps. But then it is mentioned that Deirdre's aunt built a cathedral in her town and that there is a chapel in the castle of Lystra. It just seems a bit inconsistent. In Lystra, is Christianity accepted but more of a cultural expectation (like in the Middle Ages) or is Christianity a rare and unrespected religion? If there is a cathedral in town (as there was in Corneus' city), why did Deirdre know NOTHING about Jesus?
There seems a bit of vagueness as to a specific time-period. If this is the early middle ages, such as the presence of a minstrel would signify, why would Deirdre's uncle refer to her having her "coming out" at his castle? This just seems rather anachronistic as do sleigh rides and ice-skating.
I think the author had a good plot and interesting characters in mind, but did not put enough care into the background and the setting for the story. This certainly weakened it in my mind, although I did appreciate the faithfulness and humility of Roman's character.
February 13, 2018
This is one of my favorite books of all time. I first read the Chataine's Guardian when I was 11 or 12 and quickly fell in love with the Annals of Lystra series. I was beyond excited when Robin Hardy later continued the story in the Latter Annals. Any time that I find myself in a dry book spell, I can pick up this story and still be as engaged as the first time I read it. I completely wore through my first copy to the point that the pages fell out, and my current copy shows a lot of love as well. (I also have an extra on standby just in case.) The characters feel real and the story is well written. I loved Roman, guardian to Chataine Deirdre, for his unfailing loyalty and strength/courage through hardship. Through his example and lessons, Deirdre matures into a far better person than the spoiled child of royalty that she originally appeared to be. She learns humility and kindness and eventually falls in love with the man that she first couldn't stand. Their initial pairing was undesirable to each of them in the beginning but, due to the potential threat to her life, was necessary and they both grow through the experience. The fact that they were so greatly separated by their stations in life makes their relationship much more interesting as time goes on due to the repercussions that they face if they act on their feelings. With the possibility of war on the horizon, Deirdre eventually faces a hard decision about doing what is expected of her as the chataine or following her heart and trusting in the man that she loves. It's a wonderful first book in a great series, and I can confidently say that I will never grow tired of re-reading it.
Want to read
February 15, 20161 of 3 books
228p I am assigning a Guardian to ward you. His name is Roman. . .."
Thus begins Surchatain Karel's explanation to his daughter, ten-year-old Chataine Deirdre, as to why her life is about to change dramatically. Karel's small country, Lystra, possesses the only navigable river on the southern coast of the Continent. The provinces that surround Lystra want its river trade, and will do anything to gain it--even kill the heir to the throne. So Karel places her life in the keeping of the most capable and trustworthy soldier he can find.
Willful and spoiled, Deirdre sees this guradian only as another servant to be mastered. She teases and abuses him as he places his life on the line for her day after day, year after year. Deirdre does not know at what point she beings to love him. But Roman knows from the very beginning that to love her will mean his death.
The Annals of Lystra begin with Chataine's Guardian, continue in Stone of Help, and conclude in Liberation of Lystra. The Latter Annals of Lystra resume the saga 100 years later with Nicole of Prie Mer.
Robin Hardy is the author of The Latter Annals of Lystra, the Streiker Saga, the Sammy Series, Padre, His Strange Ways, Unknown Name, Unknown Number, and The Idecis. She is also the editor of W.W. Melton's classic devotional, Sifted But Saved. She resides with her family in North Texas.
228p I am assigning a Guardian to ward you. His name is Roman. . .."
Thus begins Surchatain Karel's explanation to his daughter, ten-year-old Chataine Deirdre, as to why her life is about to change dramatically. Karel's small country, Lystra, possesses the only navigable river on the southern coast of the Continent. The provinces that surround Lystra want its river trade, and will do anything to gain it--even kill the heir to the throne. So Karel places her life in the keeping of the most capable and trustworthy soldier he can find.
Willful and spoiled, Deirdre sees this guradian only as another servant to be mastered. She teases and abuses him as he places his life on the line for her day after day, year after year. Deirdre does not know at what point she beings to love him. But Roman knows from the very beginning that to love her will mean his death.
The Annals of Lystra begin with Chataine's Guardian, continue in Stone of Help, and conclude in Liberation of Lystra. The Latter Annals of Lystra resume the saga 100 years later with Nicole of Prie Mer.
Robin Hardy is the author of The Latter Annals of Lystra, the Streiker Saga, the Sammy Series, Padre, His Strange Ways, Unknown Name, Unknown Number, and The Idecis. She is also the editor of W.W. Melton's classic devotional, Sifted But Saved. She resides with her family in North Texas.
April 22, 2015
Hardy brings you into another world smoothly, allowing you to fully relate to this world of Lystra with rules slightly different from our own. Within this context, she takes you through the entire young life of Deirdre, the equivalent of a princess. Even though the time spans over a decade, Hardy writes fluidly enough that you won't feel jerked around and will feel fulfilled with what/who Dierdre has become by the end. The most charming aspect of this novel (even above the conspiracies that naturally come with a life at court) is the relationship developed between Dierdre and her guardian, Roman. This relationship begins as a hateful, for-duty-only relationship, but as time progresses, you see hints that there may be more to them than duty despite the age difference. I was personally amazed at how smoothly Hardy traverses through a decade of Dierdre's life while sustaining the dramatic tension and supporting the relationships between the characters.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews