When Christ and His Saints Slept by Sharon Kay Penman

Nov 17, 2011 StoryTellerShannon rated it it was amazing

Shelves: my-very-best-reads, historical-fiction, books-reviewed, owned, the-sweeping-epic

Penman's broad epic scope focuses on the dynastic struggle for the crown of England. This takes place in the early 12th century when Henry I, who had over 20 illegitimate children, loses his one legitimate heir in the White Ship Ordeal (i.e. basically, a chunk of the fleet sank in the British storms). Upon Henry I's death it was settled that Henry's daughter, Maude, would rule. For his barons this was quite unpopular as women were not supposed to rule, which opened the doors for a cousin, Stephe ...more

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Dec 04, 2011 Jeffrey Keeten rated it really liked it · review of another edition

You will look at this book and find the 742 pages daunting, but I will relieve your mind on that score. The book reads fast. Penman keeps the pages moving bringing history to life and putting flesh on the bones of a vast array of characters. Despite the plot involving so many historical figures I never found myself to be lost. I have read quite a bit about the Plantagenets and that may have helped me to decipher the where, why and what more easily, but I do think a reader with less background of You will look at this book and find the 742 pages daunting, but I will relieve your mind on that score. The book reads fast. Penman keeps the pages moving bringing history to life and putting flesh on the bones of a vast array of characters. Despite the plot involving so many historical figures I never found myself to be lost. I have read quite a bit about the Plantagenets and that may have helped me to decipher the where, why and what more easily, but I do think a reader with less background of the period will still find themselves swept up in the plot and left at the end of the book with a burning desire to know more about the Plantagenets. In fact I fully intend to read the other two books in the trilogy in the very near future.

The trouble, you see, all starts with the White Ship. The legitimate heir to the throne of England, William the only son of Henry the first drowns in a tragic shipwreck. Many English lives would have been spared if William had survived. Henry I dies after a meal of lamprey eels. On his death bed he forces his most ardent supporters to swear fealty to his daughter and only legitimate heir Maude. Some of his supporters do end up supporting Maude, but a majority of them go over to Stephen, her cousin, and he becomes king of England. This is one of those points in history where legitimate and illegitimate blood lines become such a factor. Robert of Gloucester, a competent, well respected illegitimate son of Henry I displaying all the characteristics of a man that would have made a good king is kept from the throne by law. If Robert had been allowed to be crowned king many thousands of English lives would have been spared in the more than a decade of civil war that followed the coronation of Stephen, for Maude did not go quietly in the night.

Maude married Geoffrey of Anjou, a handsome, dynamic, powerful man who got more than he bargained for in his marriage to a King's daughter. She married him for military support and he married her with that thought that a son of his would one day sit on the throne of England. Their marriage was stormy and it is a miracle that they ever managed to compromise long enough to sire a son. One of the reasons why Maude had difficulty in gaining support was of course first and foremost because she was a woman, but secondly she was too imperial with her subjects. She exhibited a coldness that kept all, but her key people at a distance. Stephen on the other hand was very charming and personable to a fault. He wanted everyone to love him and as the war continued that became his Achilles Heel. He was unwilling to execute and destroy those that opposed him. Qualities today that we would find commendable, but in the twelfth century was perceived as a weakness. As the civil war continued supporters blew with the wind, sometimes changing sides three or four times. By the time Henry, oldest son of Maude and Geoffrey, became old enough to become involved in the conflict the war was nearly over. Stephen, after the untimely death of his son Eustace (another deadly meal of eel),named Henry as his successor thus ending the conflict.

I have been so enthralled, for good reason, with the reign of Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitane that I knew very little about Stephen and Maude. I had always known more about their weaknesses than their strengths and Penman did a wonderful job giving me a more balanced perception of both Stephen and Maude. ...more

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Jan 08, 2016 Gary rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

What makes Sharon Penman's historical novels set in medieval Britain so amazing is how they combine sticking quite close to historical facts, with making a thrilling read enjoyable to modern readers, together with an engaging cast of characters.
This novel documents the nineteen year civil war between Empress Maud, Countess of Anjou and Lady of the English and King Stephen, a war which ravaged England and caused great suffering to the people.
Penman outlines the complex characters of Maude- proud, ...more

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Mar 02, 2011 Iset rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Recommends it for: Absolutely everyone

Recommended to Iset by: Dad

Shelves: cream-of-the-crop, medieval-age-1000-to-1400ce-fiction

It was with great anticipation that I returned to Sharon Penman’s When Christ and His Saints Slept, the first book by Sharon Penman that I ever read at the tender age of 10, and which for good reasons immediately became one of my favourite books of all time and in all the years since has never been displaced from its solid and thoroughly deserved status as the cream of the crop not just of historical fiction but across genres. This is the only book for which I have ever stayed awake without slee ...more

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May 30, 2008 Bryon rated it really liked it

I liked this book, and am a fan of Penman's...but there were a few issues that I had with this one:

1.) "Head-hopping": Sometimes it's really hard to tell who she's talking about, and you have to go back and re-read to figure it out.

2.) Many scenes seem to have this basic structure:
1. Some major characters, most likely nobles, are talking about something eminently important.
2. Suddenly...A rider/knight will rush in to tell them that someone has died/been born, or a castle/city is under siege/ta ...more

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May 02, 2014 Tania rated it really liked it

Shelves: historical-fiction, favorite-books

"A man can be our enemy, Eustace, and still be a decent sort.

I've read all of Philippa Gregory's king and queen books, and this is only my second title by Sharon Kay Penman. I enjoy them both but for different reasons - PG shows you all the intrigues in the courts, but you're never really aware of what is happening to the man on the street. These are quick, easy and very intriguing reads. SKP shows the effects of the kings wars and decisions on the country as a whole. I found it especially sad t ...more

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May 18, 2012 Sage rated it it was ok

This is not a great example of historical fiction. The story is thin and feels like it is just there to connect the historical elements that the author had researched and wanted to tell us about. It's hard to develop much interest in any of the characters. Really, this isn't so much a novel as a seemingly endless series of vignettes. I'm struggling to get through it, but sticking it out for some reason. I definitely wouldn't recommend.

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Jan 31, 2012 Orsolya rated it really liked it

Shelves: historical-fiction, medieval-times, queens, library

Before the Tudors and before the Plantagenets; England, France, and much of Europe was comprised of territories up for conquest. Although history always highlights men, there were women groveling for crowns, as well. Ever hear of Empress Maude versus King Stephen? Sharon Kay Penman traverses this period in her novel, “When Christ and his Saints Slept”.

A warning must initially be signaled that Penman’s novel is a heavy one. The pages immediately introduce a multitude of characters and the story i Before the Tudors and before the Plantagenets; England, France, and much of Europe was comprised of territories up for conquest. Although history always highlights men, there were women groveling for crowns, as well. Ever hear of Empress Maude versus King Stephen? Sharon Kay Penman traverses this period in her novel, “When Christ and his Saints Slept”.

A warning must initially be signaled that Penman’s novel is a heavy one. The pages immediately introduce a multitude of characters and the story is told from so many points of views that even Anglophiles are left resorting to the genealogical for guidance. This noticeably makes “When Christ and his Saints Slept” choppy and somewhat disjointed resulting in some difficulties in reading.

Despite this qualm, the pages of “When Christ and his Saints Slept” are bursting with activity and are thick with an emphasis on history in the HF equation. In a sense, you have to read quickly in order to understand the quick pace (sort of like how you have to be crazy to understand craziness). Penman never slows down with her story so there is certainly a lot to take in with the plot.

Penman’s language and prose is beautiful both in accuracy with the era and literary language, arousing the reader. It is undeniable that Penman is a superb writer. Although, the phrase, ‘For certes’ is overused and becomes annoying.

Slightly after the 200 page mark, Penman smooths out “When Christ and his Saints Slept” and reading becomes easier and more cohesive as the story focuses on less character point of views. Also gratifying is Penman’s characterization of Henry (future King of England) and Eleanor of Aquitaine. Penman uses devices to build excitement towards these figures without pushing them into the foreground perfecting the building of their stories. This is excellently done.

There are some tedious ‘filler’ moments in “When Christ and his Saints Slept” which seemingly have no involvement in the plot. There spots can be skimmed by readers choosing to do so without any depth of the tale being lost.

As the novel progresses, both the writing and story become heartily better so don’t give up too early. The plot is stronger and highly visual. There are some repetition flaws, however, when characters discuss events from their perspective which were already ‘lived’ on previous pages therefore backtracking slightly.

Penman eventually focuses “When Christ and his Saints Slept” on Henry’s quest for the English crown and his relationship with Eleanor. These pages are a bit thinner and less rounded than former portions of the novel as the depictions of Henry and Eleanor are too much like other historical fiction novels focusing on lust and a lack of development. The story still progresses forward and is an enjoyable read; but simply feels different from the rest of the book. This is especially true when it seems that Penman rushes to finish the story and set the environment for the next novel.

The conclusion of “When Christ and his Saints Slept” isn’t as powerful as one would hope but it sets the scene for the next novel and certainly encourages topical interest. Penman also includes an ‘Afterword’ explaining the end courses of the figures in the novel plus an ‘Author’s Note’ presenting the historical accuracies and liberties taken (readers will be satisfied to know that “When Christ and his Saints Slept” is very heavy on the accuracy).

“When Christ and his Saints Slept” is a thick novel that starts off slowly and, on some level, confusingly; but stick with it to be met with joyful reading. Penman refrains from fluff and her writing his highly visual creating a tour de force to be reckoned with. “When Christ and his Saints Slept” is suggested for HF fans of both England and France.
...more

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Aug 20, 2008 Misfit rated it it was amazing

Shelves: medieval

A Sad and Tragic Period in England's History and truly a time when Christ and his Saints slept. A fascinating, complicated tale with a huge cast of characters, many with similar names. It was hard to keep track of at times, a list of who's who at the front of the book would have been helpful, as SKP did in the next book, Time and Chance.

The characters were well written, and I appreciated that neither Stephen (who did steal the crown) nor Maude were written as black and white/evil vs. saint -- a ...more

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Jul 08, 2018 Steven Walle added it

This was a great book written about the eleven hundreds in England and Normandy. It speaks of the fierce fighting for the crown and many betrails of the heart. I recommend it highly.
Enjoy and Be Blessed.

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Aug 07, 2015 Krista Baetiong Tungol rated it it was amazing

Recommends it for: Ryan Macadangdang

Shelves: historical-fiction, period-medieval, favorites, author-north-america, first-in-a-series

"And so began for the wretched people of England, a time of suffering so great that they came to fear "Christ and his saints slept.""

Now I understand what the fuss on this book is about! It is a clear-cut narration of historical events leading to the Anarchy and what it was like for people from all standing to live through and suffer the tribulations of this particular period, starting from the day Stephen and Empress Maude fought over England’s crown. Reading this is like poring over a history

"And so began for the wretched people of England, a time of suffering so great that they came to fear "Christ and his saints slept.""

Now I understand what the fuss on this book is about! It is a clear-cut narration of historical events leading to the Anarchy and what it was like for people from all standing to live through and suffer the tribulations of this particular period, starting from the day Stephen and Empress Maude fought over England’s crown. Reading this is like poring over a history book sans the lackluster and languorous style; we read the characters’ minds and envision them talking, laughing or crying. The narration is detailed and cleverly-written it seems like Penman has come straight from the Middle Ages and witnessed the dark years of the Anarchy firsthand.

The story is told from different points of view, which for me gives an objective representation of history. I learned more about Stephen’s chivalrous nature but fragile leadership, Empress Maude’s determination and astuteness that were often overlooked because of her gender, Henry II’s indomitable spirit and competence, Eleanor of Aquitaine’s guile and timeless beauty, the vassals whose loyalty depended on whether which side offered the better part of the bargain, clergymen who profited immensely from political meddling, and the masses, who, sadly, were the expendable pawns in times of war. There is an interchange of viewpoint from the characters—particularly Stephen and Maude’s—that gives a neutral feel to the story and somehow encourages the readers not to take sides. I find myself sympathizing with Maude as a woman, yet I am also drawn to Stephen’s often flawed gallantry. I can’t blame them for the unpopular decision that brought England to almost two decades of civil war for they both had their reasons, although I still wonder sometimes what would have happened if Maude was allowed to rule or Stephen did not claim the crown.

A number of stark realities of living in this period are also captured in this book: women, notwithstanding their rank, were always regarded as inferior; the Catholic Church was a major player in making or breaking a kingdom; most noblemen changed allegiance because of their vested interest; the ordinary people cared less who ruled them as long as they had food to eat; innocent deaths were inevitable in a war; starvation was rampant, and emotional scars were forever imprinted in the hearts of those who survived. It also showed that at the heart of this ugly war were remarkable women like Empress Maude, Queen Matilda and Eleanor who proved feudal Europe that women are not to be taken lightly, honorable men like Brian Fitz Count who remained a loyal ally until the end, and the resilient masses who rebuilt their lives with optimism and a call for peace.

I was truly impressed with the author’s writing style. She narrates historical events in a manner that is agreeable and easy to read, and adds interesting tidbits or trivia as well. She has made 12th century England/France an exciting period to delve into even to a non-English/European reader like myself. She actually reminds me of another historical fiction writer, Elizabeth Chadwick, with her fluent grasp of medieval life and great love for reliving historical icons.

I also liked that the author gave life to a few fictional characters—mostly ordinary people—and showed us what it was like for them to be trapped in someone else’s war. I especially adored the most prominent imaginary character in the book, Empress Maude’s half-brother, Ranulf. I loved his character because he serves his own conscience and treats the common people with deference the way a person of his rank never will. He is not corrupted by the dictates of his society as he acknowledges and learns from other people’s way of life. And he is so bursting with sentimentality that he has become a pleasant change to everyone’s grim temperament and indifference.

I’m glad I have finally read a Sharon Kay Penman work; this book is historical fiction at its finest and another reason why I find it truly hard to leave this genre just yet. ...more

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Jan 01, 2010 Manybooks rated it did not like it

Shelves: historical-fiction, history, book-reviews

Now I read Sharon Kay Penman's When Christ and his Saints Slept many many years ago (I purchased a hardback copy with much anticipation when it was first released, mostly because of my adoration of Ellis Peters' brilliant Brother Cadfael series which takes place in the same historical period) and I must admit that I have neither the energy nor even the inclination to consider a detailed and intense rereading (at least at present) in order to pen a longer and more involved review, as my reading e Now I read Sharon Kay Penman's When Christ and his Saints Slept many many years ago (I purchased a hardback copy with much anticipation when it was first released, mostly because of my adoration of Ellis Peters' brilliant Brother Cadfael series which takes place in the same historical period) and I must admit that I have neither the energy nor even the inclination to consider a detailed and intense rereading (at least at present) in order to pen a longer and more involved review, as my reading experience, while indeed very much informative, was also not really all that much of a pleasure (if at ALL). And indeed, I would actually have to meticulously reread When Christ and His Saints Slept, as there is oh so much I do not all that closely remember, so that the vast majority of the details, themes, plotlines, the very facts presented, I only vaguely now seem to be able to recollect and really without much if any amount of accuracy.

But be that as it may, my main (and very personal) issue with Sharon Kay Penman as an author has always been that I while I appreciate and even tend to adore, to love, the subject matter of her books, the same cannot unfortunately be said with regard to her writing style. It is simply not usually a successful and enjoyable fit with me, as I tend to find both Penman's word building and vocabulary choices, as well as her narrative flow, her sentence structure, tedious, slow and distracting, at times even to the point of major annoyance (and that has been my experience with almost all of her novels so far, and I have attempted a goodly number of them). For background information on the civil war between King Stephen and the Empress Maud (also known as Mathilda), I do much appreciate When Christ and his Saints Slept, but as I did not find the book all that readable and enjoyable, I am thus likewise also not that keen on reading the remaining novels of the series (at least that is my opinion at this time, and I doubt that it will change any time soon, if ever). And yes, if I should want a refresher on the civil war (the uncivil war) between Stephen and Maud, I will once again and with much joy and personal pleasurs reread Ellis Peters' Brother Cadfael series, for her writing does to and for me, what Sharon Kay Penman has never managed to do, not only to totally enchant me, but to also transport me into the time periods presented and depicted. ...more

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Mar 24, 2011 The FountainPenDiva, Old school geek chick and lover of teddy bears rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: genre-historical-fiction, settings-medieval-england, characters-queens

It still boggles the mind to think that England went through twenty years of civil war because men just couldn't stand to see a powerful woman on the throne. When Christ and His Saints Slept is a very long book, which would make for a very interesting miniseries. This novel is the real Game of Thrones, played against a backdrop of shifting loyalties, clashing armies and the suffering of innocents. One cannot help to feel some sympathy for Stephen, the man who should not have been king. I wanted ...more

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Aug 04, 2018 SonOfYork rated it it was amazing

Shelves: favorite-books

Sharon Penman has for a long while now, taken first place on my list of favorite authors, in any genre!

No matter which genre I delve into, no author (so far) has been able to draw me in as well as Penman does. Medieval England is filled with all the elements one needs for an entertaining read but no one highlights these elements quite like Penman!

What can I say? I loved this book! I couldn't put it down!

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Feb 26, 2013 Nate rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: middle-ages, owned

This truly epic novel covers the years between 1101 and 1154 in England and some duchies in France as the nobility fought an astonishingly long and destructive war over who would sit the throne of England; Stephen of Blois or the Empress Maude. A huge cast of characters populates this book and their conflicts with each other and themselves are what propels this story. All of them have distinctive personalities and personal motive is a huge factor in this story, as sides were changed often and lo This truly epic novel covers the years between 1101 and 1154 in England and some duchies in France as the nobility fought an astonishingly long and destructive war over who would sit the throne of England; Stephen of Blois or the Empress Maude. A huge cast of characters populates this book and their conflicts with each other and themselves are what propels this story. All of them have distinctive personalities and personal motive is a huge factor in this story, as sides were changed often and loyalties were totally suspect most of the time. The main character of this story, if any, is Ranulf Fitz Roy, Maude's fictional half-brother. A lot of historical fiction uses the great tool of using a fictional character as our eyes and legs in the world and he's a great character in that tradition.

It's so odd to see characters that we only really get to see on paper or in a few paintings living and breathing in such a realistic way. This kind of focus on characterization only helps the vivid sense of place and time in this book, as these characters are human beings; complex, flawed, and not always likeable. The most obvious and probably best example is the two people at the center of the conflict; Maude and Stephen. Maude's severe and stubborn and can be a bit cold, but she's also strong and clever and just utterly fucking refuses to stop fighting for her and her son's rightful throne and really cares for her loved ones. Stephen is charming, funny, brave dotes on his wife and children but is way too easily manipulated by people who have their own interests in mind rather than what's right for the kingdom...and he's also a usurper. Honestly, no one comes out looking like the big bad in this; just people who are compelled for many reasons, some just, to continue the war. Ultimately though, you will probably feel the need to pick a side.

Another huge facet of Penman's writing that shines is her knowledge of the time. Details on everything from what people ate to castle architecture to the genealogy of nobles just abound in this book. All of this information is woven into the story in a way that you don't feel like you're reading a list of events but that you're picking up these facts as you go along and sink deeper into the world of the book, which is definitely substantial. She also manages to imbue these but really strong moods into the whole story; it's sad and moving and infuriating and and all kinds of good stuff.

I really felt for two parties in this book: the commoners and Maude. The common people just get used and disposed of as pieces in the horrible chess game of a war the nobles were waging and Maude is denied the respect, power and title she deserves because she's a woman. Seriously, there were times when people in this book would say shit like "Yeah, Stephen sucks but do you really want a woman on the throne?" It's just ridiculous. If Maude had held the loyalty that male monarchs commanded at the time just for being born male Stephen's head would have been crowning Bristol's gate two weeks into the war, yet she had to fight tooth and nail for decades just to get her son rightfully recognized. It takes a special kind of book to really stoke that kind of uncomfortable emotion and still make you want to keep picking it up. ...more

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Jul 25, 2011 Samantha rated it it was amazing

Shelves: more-historical-than-fiction, seriously-read-this, own-it, british-history, plantagenets

Sometimes I have a difficult time deciding how to rate a book. I expect to find that a 5-star book stands out among the millions of written pages out there. This one does. I have read it before and knew exactly what would happen, but that didn't stop tears from forming in my eyes at times as Penman skillfully made history come alive.

Even the title is more eye-catching and thought provoking than most. When Christ and His Saints Slept was an era of English history fraught with unfortunate events b Sometimes I have a difficult time deciding how to rate a book. I expect to find that a 5-star book stands out among the millions of written pages out there. This one does. I have read it before and knew exactly what would happen, but that didn't stop tears from forming in my eyes at times as Penman skillfully made history come alive.

Even the title is more eye-catching and thought provoking than most. When Christ and His Saints Slept was an era of English history fraught with unfortunate events beginning with the sinking of the White Ship in 1120. Henry I, who had managed to sire at least 20 illegitimate children, had only one legitimate male heir. William was expected to be England's next king until he got on board the beautiful but doomed vessel.

Henry I makes his daughter Maude (Matilda) his heir in one of the worst considered last testaments of all time and throws England into a 20 year civil war so bloody and tormented that it was believed that Christ and His saints slept. Maude intends to fight for the crown that few believe any woman should wear, and is shocked when her cousin, Stephen of Blois, is the one to steal it from her.

Enough of restating history, you can find the details of the struggles between Maude and Stephen easily enough. What you will not find is a telling of their lives that is as detailed, moving, and well-written as Penman's. The cast of characters in this novel is amazingly large, but developed well enough that the reader can track them as though they are friends (or enemies). The rich detail of scenery, battles, and historical detail is second to none. The reader will learn as much as if reading non-fiction, while at the same time be entertained by the personalities, humor, and just a little bit of romance. No other author creates a whole world as realistically as Sharon Kay Penman. She is in a league of her own. The reader can sympathize with Maude and cry for Stephen and not find any reason why that should not be so. Picking sides is as difficult for those reading their story now as it was for their nobles those many years ago.

After the back and forth, years of sacrifice and struggle, this installment concludes with the ascendancy of Henry II. He seems like the golden savior of England, and I was almost brought to tears again seeing the beginning of his rule so full of hope and knowing how it is to end. His and Eleanor's story is just beginning when this novel ends, but is continued in the next volume, Time and Chance. ...more

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Mar 03, 2015 Deborah Pickstone rated it it was amazing

Shelves: favourite-authors, serieses-fictional, medieval, plantagenet, all-time-faves, biographical-novel, ethical-issues, family-therapy-needed, happiness-guarranteed, historical-howlers

I have read this several times but realised during this re-read how much more critical a reader I have become - not necessarily a good thing, in some ways. So, the complaint first; writing forsoothly. I wish she wouldn't. Also, the use of the term 'lad/lass' every time someone speaks to someone else gets REALLY irritating. I know it's an English habit but not everyone uses it and I doubt it was different then. It's part of the writing forsoothly. I think it's one of the dangers of writing about I have read this several times but realised during this re-read how much more critical a reader I have become - not necessarily a good thing, in some ways. So, the complaint first; writing forsoothly. I wish she wouldn't. Also, the use of the term 'lad/lass' every time someone speaks to someone else gets REALLY irritating. I know it's an English habit but not everyone uses it and I doubt it was different then. It's part of the writing forsoothly. I think it's one of the dangers of writing about English history in the US.

My gripe being over, this is probably the best biographical novel there is about this short and harrowing era of English history. For the most part the history is sound and well-researched. Ms Penman only falls down on the sort of detail that can slide past the eye - buying a tablecloth at the market to go for a picnic, for instance. I am no expert in the history of tablecloths and their use. While they were in use in that time, the sort of table that would have worn one would have demanded a very large one. Your tablecloth's job would have been to announce 'I have lots of money' and was not something you'd expect to find on a picnic - not one where adultery was the main course, anyway! Perhaps he could have bought a horse blanket? Oh, just call me Miss Picky!

This is a long book and for me it reads fast! I find the Anarchy an especially fascinating period, peopled by some characters who are truly unbelievable. There are almost no invented characters in this story - just one of the main cast and a few supporting cast - and no-one could have made up Stephen; a new man, a dreamer, humane and chivalrous and yet a much respected warrior, so long as he wasn't involved in anything that went on for too long or he'd wander off and find something more interesting to do - making anyone under siege by him not very worried at all! The most fascinating and least well-known character in the story is his wife, Matilda, who could besiege and stick with it and who captured Robert of Gloucester, thus redeeming Stephen from imprisonment and the end of his reign.

We get to Eleanor of Aquitaine toward the end but I am not as beglamoured by her as people seem to be. Unsurprisingly, Henry, child of that shrinking violet the Empress Maude, found himself a woman of strong personality to marry - and to fall out with, eventually. Henry is the personality of this era and this look at his formative years is most interesting. ...more

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May 02, 2009 Robin Wiley rated it it was amazing

Shelves: historical-fiction

It called to me, so I decided to reread it.

Wow, what a completely shitty time to live in England or France! It amazes me that one could carry on a war for 20 years and just dismiss the misery one is causing people. The common people didn't care who wore the crown. They just wanted to live their lives and feed their families. But every year or so you mow down their town on the way to the next castle, fort or stronghold. Your army marches on it's belly, so you take everything edible on the way thr ...more

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Mar 08, 2010 Kirsten rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: bookshelf, made-me-cry

Sharon Kay Penman is the all time master of historical fiction. (Her Welsh Princes trilogy even made my Dad cry!)

This is the first in her Plantagenets series. It starts with the death of the only *legitimate* son of King Henry I and what that leads to. Will his daughter take the crown back from her cousin Stephen? What happens when her son Henry meets the Queen of France, Eleanor of Aquitaine?

This is some of the most dramatic and romantic of historical times. Names from history litter this book ...more

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Feb 23, 2019 Steve Donoghue added it

Shelves: older-books

Well! My first impression, back when this book appeared in 1995, was that it ran aground on all the author's research and failed really to ignite as a big sprawling work of fiction. But now, returning to the book a quarter-century later, I saw SO much more of its merits. In some very real sense, this could be viewed as a work of dramatized history rather than historicized drama - it's fantastic and well-paced and genuinely empathetic throughout. So glad I re-visited this one.

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Apr 27, 2016 James Burns rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance, my-librairy

I have always loved historical books about Eleanor of Aquitaine and Henry II, and even though this a work Historical Fiction it was well researched and meets my criteria for Historical Novels. 1st, is it historical accurate describing Battles, and Characters. 2nd, are the characters described real people and how many fictional people are there. 3rd, Can the book come to life as if I'm living the story.
I don't have the words to describe how much I enjoyed reading this book.
The first chapters I have always loved historical books about Eleanor of Aquitaine and Henry II, and even though this a work Historical Fiction it was well researched and meets my criteria for Historical Novels. 1st, is it historical accurate describing Battles, and Characters. 2nd, are the characters described real people and how many fictional people are there. 3rd, Can the book come to life as if I'm living the story.
I don't have the words to describe how much I enjoyed reading this book.
The first chapters is about, Henry I, and the death of his only male heir by drowning when the ship he was on crossing the English Channel,before his death , he named his daughter Maude (Matilda) as heir to the throne, and made all the Barons and titled men, swear an oath of fealty. After hearing about the death of the king, His nephew Stephen usurped the throne,while his cousin and lawful heir, was in the Duchy of Normandy. King Stephen had all the Lords and Barons swear an oath of fealty to him. The King, the Barons and lords justified their breaking their oath of fealty to Maude, stating that the Oath was not valid because it was made under duress. So begins a bloody Civil war for the crown of England, finally it was settled after the death of the Kings oldest son, King Stephen and Henry II came to terms. Stephen would remain King as long as he lived, and adopted Henry and named him, heir to the throne.
Eleanor of Aquitaine, played a substantial role in this story and history, Eleanor was the Queen consort of France.The Marriage of Eleanor and King Louis of France was annulled do to the fact that they were Cousins and was illegally married.
I always try not to spoil the book by giving to much information.There are two events in this book, that I have tell. the first event made me laugh so hard that I cried, and the second event made me cry at the death of Robert and Maud's half brother born out of wedlock. One of the injustice in English history was not named his fathers heir, in my opinion, he would of made far better Ruler than either Stephen.
The 1st event was when Henry invaded England at 14, hiring mercenaries, after suffering a couples losses, he could not afford to pay his men and they were getting restless. Maude Sent Ranulf ( a fictional Character) her half brother to try an convince him to return back to Normandy at that she would give money for him to pay his soldiers. when Ranulf broached The subject Henry told him he had the money. of course his uncle was curious where he got the money, he asked him if he was getting it by illegal means. and he was taken by surprised when Henry had Wrote his cousin, King Stephen for the money.
The 2nd event was the death of Robert, half brother to Matilda, his death was so touching, that I couldn't help but cry, I was half expecting to read, here lies the greatest knight of all. Robert was a true Knight in the sense of Arthur's Knights of the round table.
I Highly recommend this book . This was Sharon Kaye Penman at her best. ...more

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Mar 12, 2012 Dawn rated it did not like it · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction, authors-women, read-2012

I didn't like this book, skipping over and skimming through the last half as fast as I could.

Set in 1135 England, it tells the story of Stephen and Maude's fight over the thone.

I picked out this as my first Penman novel because it was set in the era of Brother Cadfael. The amount of time spent on Maude's unhappy marriage and Stephens wife was tedious and jumping from one drama to the next drama was too much action and not enough story or character building. The history was fascinating but the w ...more

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Jan 06, 2010 Moppet rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction, medieval, chunkster-challenge, 12th-century

When I was a little girl I had a chart showing the Kings and Queens of England on my bedroom wall. I was especially interested in the Queens of England - that is, the ones who had ruled in their own right, not the consorts. But there weren't too many of those. Prior to Mary I (if you don't count Lady Jane Grey), there was only one - Matilda.

So I was disappointed to learn that Matilda had never really reigned. On his death her father, Henry I, who had lost his only legitimate son in the wreck of When I was a little girl I had a chart showing the Kings and Queens of England on my bedroom wall. I was especially interested in the Queens of England - that is, the ones who had ruled in their own right, not the consorts. But there weren't too many of those. Prior to Mary I (if you don't count Lady Jane Grey), there was only one - Matilda.

So I was disappointed to learn that Matilda had never really reigned. On his death her father, Henry I, who had lost his only legitimate son in the wreck of the White Ship, left the crown to her. But her cousin Stephen seized the throne, beginning a civil war of nearly twenty years (1135-1154), a period of misrule, bloodshed and suffering when, as the Peterborough Chronicle put it, 'Christ and all his saints slept.'

Sharon Kay Penman follows the main protagonists - Matilda herself (here called Maude, the vernacular version of her name, because Stephen was also married to a Matilda), her estranged husband Geoffrey of Anjou, Stephen and his wife Matilda of Boulogne - untangling the complex intrigues of the time and providing glimpses of the effects of the war on the unfortunate peasants and townspeople who were caught up in the conflict. She also follows the fortunes of a fictional character, Ranulf, illegitimate son of Henry I, who decides to support his half-sister Maude, but at great personal cost.

Ranulf's adventures provide a link between the first two thirds of the book - the conflict between Maude and Stephen - and the last third, when the next generation reignites the war all over again. Stephen wants to crown his son Eustace king in his lifetime, while Maude and Geoffrey are determined that their son Henry, already Duke of Normandy, will win the crown of England. Although this book and its sequels, Time and Chance and Devil's Brood, are sometimes called the 'Eleanor of Aquitaine trilogy', Eleanor herself doesn't make an appearance until 700 pages in. When she does, sparks immediately fly between her and Henry, despite the fact that she is still - unhappily - married to the King of France.

For me personally, this was an excellent introduction to a period of English history I didn't know much about and a chance to meet two fascinating twelfth-century women, the Empress Maude and Eleanor of Aquitaine. There was just one thing about the book which disappointed me - we don't get to meet Henry I, whose actions are the catalyst for much of the plot. I wanted to know more about him and his relationship with Maude/Matilda.

There are some books which leave you feeling glad that you read them, sorry you've come to the end and exhilarated by the whole experience. This is one of them.

I've quoted from my two favourite scenes on my blog.

http://misadventuresofmoppet.wordpres...
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Aug 24, 2009 Lori rated it liked it

I'm having such an easier time getting into this than Here Be Dragons.

Don't be misled by the 3 star rating, this was a very good book! I notice another review says "I'm glad I read it, and I'm glad it's over", which is how I feel.

The history was fascinating, I knew nothing about Maude and the civil war in 12 century England. Both she and Stephen, who usurped her crown, were extremely well depicted and fully fleshed out into real people. And when one thinks of a usurper, one usually things of a I'm having such an easier time getting into this than Here Be Dragons.

Don't be misled by the 3 star rating, this was a very good book! I notice another review says "I'm glad I read it, and I'm glad it's over", which is how I feel.

The history was fascinating, I knew nothing about Maude and the civil war in 12 century England. Both she and Stephen, who usurped her crown, were extremely well depicted and fully fleshed out into real people. And when one thinks of a usurper, one usually things of a power hungry egomaniac, yet Stephen was far from that - he was so likable. A sweet nice man, a baaaad king really because he was so nice. Likewise Maude, so admirable, had her faults as well, exacerbated by being a strong intelligent independent woman in a world where women are supposed to be just the opposite - well, which is why her queenship was snatched from her, a WOMAN as the consecrated monarch?

I also loved the way Mathilda, Stephen's wife, grew into herself. There were many characters in this history, all of whom were made very real and complex.

However, I did grow antsy with battle after battle, and discussion of battle, which grew a bit plodding for me. It pained me how the common people were pretty much ruined as the war raged around them, with towns laid to waste by rampage, rape, murder, and fire. Only a few of the royals even seemed to care, easy to shrug away as the consequence of the war.

So when Henry II comes to age and actually portrays a deeper conscience and desire to understand all people, it's a deep relief. He is a definite hero. When we finally meet Eleanor of Aquitaine, who is discussed as a topic of gossip throughout the book, there are definite correlations between with Maude. Because Eleanor is certainly no slouch.

One of these days I'll definitely read the next 2 books that follow Henry and Eleanor, altho it will pain me because I know how this passionate and seemingly perfectly well-matched marriage disintegrates.

I wonder if I would have loved this if I hadn't read Dorothy Dunnett, who not only wrote superbly researched historical fiction, but raised it to the highest notch of brilliance with added intrigue, mystery, and thrill. Of course she was able to do this because her main characters were fictional. Altho now that I think of it, Penham's character Ranulf, a very major character, was also fictional. Anyway, I can't help but compare good historical fiction with Dunnett, and everything else feels flatter. ...more

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Jul 12, 2010 Kerrie rated it it was amazing

Shelves: plantagenets

Not since Colleen McCullough's Masters of Rome series have I read such a meticulously researched and yet full-of-life novel of historical events which have only been preserved in ancient and dryly worded contemporary histories. Penman had quite the feat, considering that the chroniclers of the time, misogynist men of the Church, were hostile to Maude and her pursuit of the English throne that was rightly hers. She did an excellent job of balancing Maude as a sympathetic but flawed woman who had ...more

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Oct 23, 2010 Robin rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction, 12th-century, group-read, favorites, royalty, england

Based on the conflict between King Stephen and Empress Maude, this is an extensive and very well written novel for historical fiction enthusiasts. Written in third person, it follows numerous characters and sub-plots.

I think the most interesting thing about the novel is that neither Maude nor Stephen are portrayed as the protagonist or antagonist. Though this means the reader's loyalty is split, it also means the characters are well developed with realistic positive and negative qualities. You ...more

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Mar 05, 2015 Alina Radu rated it it was amazing

Shelves: history

I like this author increasingly more with every book I read.
The book tells more the story of Stephen of England and Empress Matilda of England.
The life of Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine are shown less but this is because they are still very young.
Anyway is amazing the young age at which they began to appear on the political scene.
I can not wait to read the second book.

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Oct 06, 2008 Michele rated it it was amazing

Recommends it for: any historical fiction fan or anyone interested in this period in history.

Recommended to Michele by: Historical Fiction forum

The remarkable Eleanor of Aquitaine Trilogy by Sharon Kay Penman began in 1996 with the publication of When Christ and His Saints Slept. Thus begins the remarkable story of the Angevins and their conquest of the English throne.

In the fall of 1120, off the coast of Normandy, the infamous White Ship ran aground, leading to the drowning of William Adelin. This in itself may have just been a footnote in history but for the fact that William happened to be the only legitimate male offspring of Henry The remarkable Eleanor of Aquitaine Trilogy by Sharon Kay Penman began in 1996 with the publication of When Christ and His Saints Slept. Thus begins the remarkable story of the Angevins and their conquest of the English throne.

In the fall of 1120, off the coast of Normandy, the infamous White Ship ran aground, leading to the drowning of William Adelin. This in itself may have just been a footnote in history but for the fact that William happened to be the only legitimate male offspring of Henry I, Duke of Normandy and King of England. As you might imagine, this presented quite a problem.

This is where Penman's fascinating tale of royal machinations and scheming begins. The novel follows the story of Henry I's daughter, Maude (remembered historically as Matilda, but to avoid confusion Penman -- thankfully -- uses the interchangeable name of Maude) and her quest for the throne of England, which was skillfully wrenched away by her likable, politically inept cousin, Stephen of Blois.

The politics and players of the time were numerous and convoluted, but Penman doesn't simplify to appease readers. Instead, she embraces it and the result is one of the most intelligent, informative novels of historical fiction to grace our bookshelves. Tangled relationships are clearly defined and twisted motives are neatly presented, making for a historically accurate account of one of the longest, bitterest fights for a throne that was to last well over a dozen years and ravage the English countryside. The devastation and death it brought to the English people was so complete that chroniclers of the day referred to their period as the time "when Christ and his saints slept." (Catchy, huh?)

At 768 pages, this isn't a light read by any estimation. The thirty-four years covered in this novel ends with the death of Stephen, leaving the rapt reader to rush over to Wikipedia to find out what happens next. Thankfully, it also left the door open for a sequel, the second book in the series, Time and Chance.

As usual, Penman provides the reader a thorough author's note to explain any historic deviations in her story. She explains the use of any fictional characters and carefully clarifies time and place, which only adds legitimacy to her already meticulous presentation.

If you haven't yet picked up a Penman novel, When Christ and His Saints Slept is the perfect introduction to a writer renowned for her command of historical fiction.
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Dec 16, 2015 Lisa rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: own, historical-fiction, part-of-a-series, kindle-books, 2016-reads, buddy-reads, lisa-s-geocaching-challenge

Actual rating is 4.5 stars

This is the second Sharon Kay Penman book that I have read, the first being the brilliant The Sunne in Splendour - A Novel of Richard III which is one of my favourite books of all time. I therefore went into this with high expectations and I'm pleased to say that I was not disappointed at all.

Set in England and France in the middle of the 12th century, during a bloody, nineteen year civil war known as the Anarchy, this has everything you could want from a historical fi Actual rating is 4.5 stars

This is the second Sharon Kay Penman book that I have read, the first being the brilliant The Sunne in Splendour - A Novel of Richard III which is one of my favourite books of all time. I therefore went into this with high expectations and I'm pleased to say that I was not disappointed at all.

Set in England and France in the middle of the 12th century, during a bloody, nineteen year civil war known as the Anarchy, this has everything you could want from a historical fiction novel: rich, evocative writing, meticulous research and some great characters, most of whom actually existed. There is also political intrigue, shifting allegiances, romance and even (view spoiler). Penman is, in my opinion, one of the best historical fiction writers around. She brings this turbulent period of medieval history vividly to life but she does so in a way that allows the colourful characters and events to speak for themselves. Being fiction, there are some embellishments here and there and she does use some artistic licence at times but most of what is contained within its 700 odd pages really happened. Another positive for me was how I much learnt from reading this book. I had a fairly good knowledge of this period prior to picking it up, although I was by no means an expert, but I came away feeling as though my knowledge had been broadened significantly.

So, why did it lose half a star? The main reason is that I didn't enjoy it quite as much as 'The Sunne in Splendour' and also because I think it could have been a bit shorter as there were times when I thought that odd little bits could have been cut out. Apart from that, I loved it and would recommend it to all historical fiction fans, particularly if you are interested in English medieval history.

A little word of advice to end. There are a lot of characters in this book and many of them have similar names or are referred to by their title which can get a bit confusing at times. Some of the paperback editions have a comprehensive list of all the characters which is great for referencing and keeping track. However, the kindle version (which I read) doesn't have that, so if you think that you would like to have the character list, it might be better to steer clear of the kindle version and go for a hard copy instead. Enjoy! ...more

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Nov 04, 2015 Peggy rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction-12th-century, historical-fiction-england, historical-fiction-european, historical-fiction-medieval, kindle, own, read-2016, favorite, plantagenet

Wow! What a fascinating and through look at 12th century England and Europe when King Stephen and Empress Maud were fighting for the Throne of England. I started this with very little knowledge of the period before Henry II was King of England. He is of course famous for his controversial marriage to Eleanor of Aquitaine. Henry and Eleanor don't show up much until the last 20% of the novel but that did not deter from my reading experience.

The story is told from the perspective of historical pers Wow! What a fascinating and through look at 12th century England and Europe when King Stephen and Empress Maud were fighting for the Throne of England. I started this with very little knowledge of the period before Henry II was King of England. He is of course famous for his controversial marriage to Eleanor of Aquitaine. Henry and Eleanor don't show up much until the last 20% of the novel but that did not deter from my reading experience.

The story is told from the perspective of historical persons and also fictional characters. Even though for the most part the destitute peasants and the people who populated the towns, villages and farms are not given their own stories, I came away from this novel with an understanding of why this time period is considered to be "When Christ and His Saints Slept". Kings, Nobles, Knights, etc considered it their God-given right to pillage and destroy with little thought to anything but the power they coveted. That is not to say that all of the characters were evil. But it must have been a horrific time to be living. My favorite character was the fictional Ranulf, who is suppose to be one of the many bastard children of Henry I and youngest brother of Empress Maude. It is through his eyes that much of the story is told.

Sharon Kay Penman really did her research and even at more then 700 pages the story did not lag at all for me. I loved the ending although it was bittersweet, as I know from history that Henry II will make many mistakes during this reign and of course it's well known that Henry and Eleanor do not have a happily-ever-after marriage. At times they seem so well matched but there is always the undercurrent of their strong personalities and hints at how treacherous they would become. I'm really looking forward to reading the rest of the series as I know that Ms Penman will make these characters and their off-spring come alive on the pages! I don't think my review can possibly cover all of the events and how caught up I was in the characters. I strongly recommend this to readers who are interested in Medieval history!

edited to add: I'm also very intrigued to read about John Marshall in Elizabeth Chadwick's "A Place Beyond Courage". He is a very controversial character in "When Christ & His Saints Slept" and I'm looking forward to reading how Ms Chadwick portrays him. ...more

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