When Christ and His Saints Slept by Sharon Kay Penman

Jun 30, 2020 Emily May rated it really liked it

Shelves: historical, 2020

“Why is it honesty when a man speaks his mind and madness when a woman does?”

So 12th century England is basically A Game of Thrones.

I really enjoyed what Penman did with this book and it's made me eager to seek out her other stuff. When Christ and His Saints Slept complements another historical fiction book I love - Follett's The Pillars of the Earth - by filling in the historical and political background. This book focuses in more depth on the conflict between Empress Maude and the usurper

“Why is it honesty when a man speaks his mind and madness when a woman does?”

So 12th century England is basically A Game of Thrones.

I really enjoyed what Penman did with this book and it's made me eager to seek out her other stuff. When Christ and His Saints Slept complements another historical fiction book I love - Follett's The Pillars of the Earth - by filling in the historical and political background. This book focuses in more depth on the conflict between Empress Maude and the usurper King Stephen.

Maude (aka Matilda) should have become the first queen of England when her father, Henry I, died in 1135. Instead, before she could claim the throne, her cousin Stephen stepped in. He was supported by the church and by many of England's barons, who did not want to be ruled by a woman. Maude did not give in, though. She launched a long and bloody campaign to win back her throne.

What really made this stand out for me was the way Penman portrays the complexities of Maude's character. Maude is often portrayed by historians and writers as hot-tempered, fueled by a desire for vengeance that led to a number of mistakes on her part. Here, Penman introduces us to a woman who was shipped off to Germany when she was eight years old to be betrothed to Henry V, a man twenty years older than her. When she reached puberty, they were married. After his death, she was married off yet again to a man she hated, Geoffrey of Anjou. Later, not only was she denied the throne because of her sex, but she was often met with sexism from her loyal supporters. These men acted out of duty, but still could not conceive of a woman ruler. Penman shows what it must have been like for Maude. If she showed kindness and mercy, it was because women are weak. If she showed strength and fire, it was because women are crazy. She couldn't win.

There's a lot going on and, even at 700+ pages, it flew by fast. There's so many fascinating characters and a complicated web of relationships and alliances, not to mention competition for the throne, backstabbing, secret romantic liaisons... like I said, A Game of Thrones. Though I will say I appreciate how the author made this time of violence, raping and pillaging very not gratuitous.

Oh, and I now know about Gropecunt Lane, which is... quite something. There's a Donald Trump joke in there somewhere, to be sure.

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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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Nov 17, 2011 Shannon rated it it was amazing

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

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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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 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 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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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! ...more

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Dec 19, 2020 Sud666 rated it it was amazing

Shelves: historical-fiction

"Never before had there been greater wretchedness in the country....And they said openly that Christ and his saints slept."
-The Peterborough Chronicle

This superb historical fiction novel covers a very tumultuous time in English history- a period lasting from 1135-1153 known as the "Anarchy" (though not in this book as this is term does not come into existence till the Victorian Era, where historian William Stubbs wrote a book on "The Constitutional History of England" and his student, John Round "Never before had there been greater wretchedness in the country....And they said openly that Christ and his saints slept."
-The Peterborough Chronicle

This superb historical fiction novel covers a very tumultuous time in English history- a period lasting from 1135-1153 known as the "Anarchy" (though not in this book as this is term does not come into existence till the Victorian Era, where historian William Stubbs wrote a book on "The Constitutional History of England" and his student, John Round, coined the term to describe the period).

Since there are no such things as spoilers when it comes to history, I can freely describe the events in the book. It starts with the infamous White Ship incident. In 1120, the White Ship sank en route from Barfleur in Normandy to England. Onboard was the son of Henry I (Heir to the Throne William Adelin). Henry then decided to do something unusual- he made his daughter, Maude, his heir. Considering this is 1100's England it is safe to surmise the magnates and nobles were not overjoyed with the prospect of a Queen ruling England. Maude, formerly married to Henry V, the Holy Roman Emperor, styled herself as Empress. At the insistence of her father, upon Henry's death, Maude married Geoffrey V of Anjou. Geoffrey was also known as Geoffry le Bel (Geoffrey the Handsome or Fair). He is also famous for the epithet "Plantagenest", which comes from the yellow broom plant that Geoffrey sometimes sported (the plant is called "genista" in medieval Latin)- though the Plantagent namesake didn't really come into use till the 15th century when it was used by Richard of York, the 3rd Duke of York.
This tumultuous marriage created quite a powerful union (but much disliked in England by the English and the Normans)- the Angevin Geoffrey with the Empress Maude brought the might of Anjou to her side. When Henry I died, it was Stephen of Blois who became King. Stephen was was the son of Stephen-Henry of Blois, one of the powerful counts of northern France, and Adela of Normandy, daughter of William the Conqueror. Stephen and Matilda were thus first cousins.
This conflict over the throne is the period known as the Anarchy.

As the story moves along it eventually turns to Henry II, Maude's son, and his marriage to Elenaor
of Aquitane, the former wife of the French King Louis VII. This joining of the Angevin and Aquitanian houses was a truly powerful combination. In time, Stephen would agree to finish his rule and then named Henry his heir.

That's the gist of this incredibly complex tale. These real life people would impress any Game of Thrones fan. A superbly researched and phenomenally well written historical fiction. Penman manages to humanize many of these key players who are often hyperbolically referred to as the Devil's Brood or Enlgand's most bloody dynasty, as if they were all merely bloody minded psychopaths (yes Dan Jones..I'm looking at you). They were no more nor no less bloody minded than any other ruler at this time. I appreciated this more nuanced version and while by NO means are any of these people "soft"- from Maude to Elanor, from Henry II to the Earl of Chester- for power, wealth and status any of these people would gladly bathe in blood and did, however this is the case for most royal houses of the time.

In fact the only "decent" person here is Stephen. Sadly, a good man makes for a terrible King. His innate decency, his chivalric disposition and his deep sense of honor did not serve him well during his reign. On an interesting note when Stephen died he is supposed to have said, in regards to Henry II, "I hope the lad gets more joy from his kingship than I do mine..." Ummm spoiler alert-he doesn't. But that is a story for another book.

A wonderful read. If you would like to know more about this time period and get a great understanding of all the politics and family disfunction of the Anarchy then you will love this wonderful book. Highly recommended.
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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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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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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. ...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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Jan 31, 2012 Orsolya rated it really liked it

Shelves: queens, historical-fiction, medieval-times, 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.
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Aug 07, 2015 Krista Claudine Baetiong rated it it was amazing

Recommends it for: Ryan Macadangdang

Shelves: period-medieval, historical-fiction, author-north-america, favorites, 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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Mar 31, 2020 Karen added it

5 STARS

“In time of war, the Devil makes more room in Hell.”

What a fascinating tale of history this was. It has taken me over 2 months to finish it, but I am just getting started here. The Plantagenet line has just begun for England, and I cannot wait to read on. Having been to some of these sites several times, I have always been intrigued by the incredible lives that have shaped our history. Fascinating stories of men and women, some of valor and glory and so many of treachery and betrayal. Bro ...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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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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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: 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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Oct 12, 2019 Cindy Rollins rated it really liked it

Shelves: 2019

At over 36 hours on audio,
Perhaps this sort of long form historical novel is not for everyone. It is the sad story of the 18 years civil war between Stephen and Maud. If you read the Brother Cadfael novels you will likely enjoy reading more about this war and the people who inhabited it. Sharon Kay Penman is a master at characterization and capturing a time. Writing one novel like this is astounding; writing as many as she has is almost incomprehensible.

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Jul 25, 2011 Samantha rated it it was amazing

Shelves: own-it, more-historical-than-fiction, seriously-read-this, 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: serieses-fictional, plantagenet, uk-fiction, re-reads, political, favourite-authors, all-time-faves, history-of-all-things, william-marshal, makes-me-think

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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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. ...more

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

Shelves: my-librairy, historical-romance

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

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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Mar 29, 2013 Charlene Vickers rated it it was ok

Christ and his saints slept because they read this book.

There's too much exposition and too little action. The characters spend most of their time playing the "as you know, Bob" game. Very little happens "on stage"; most important events are revealed in letters that are read out to the amazement and shock of all present. Characters are too farsighted at times, having an unrealistic ability to foresee all the repercussions of an event. ...more

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Aug 23, 2013 Andrea (Catsos Person) is a Compulsive eBook Hoarder rated it it was amazing

Shelves: historical-fiction, i-own-audiobook, library-dcpl

8/14/19 Audible (members) daily deal! $6.95

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Aug 05, 2020 Regan Walker rated it really liked it

Shelves: historical-fiction, 12th-century

4 and ½ Stars! History of 12th Century England Brought to Life

This story of England and France in the time of the Civil War between Stephen and the Empress Maude begins in 1135 A.D. and continues to 1154 A.D. As King Henry I dies, his barons faced the unwelcome prospect of being ruled either by Henry's beautiful daughter, Maude, Countess of Anjou, or her cousin Stephen, a great battle commander but a weak statesman. The Civil War that resulted from their struggle for the Crown was to wreak havoc ...more

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Jul 11, 2019 Pam Baddeley rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction

I have meant for some years to read this author's long novel about Richard III, so when this one instead appeared in a charity shop was tempted. I didn't know much about the period it covers other than remembering that the war between King Stephen and Empress/would-be Queen Maude (aka Matilda) forms the background to the Cadfael series by Ellis Peters.

I enjoyed this book in parts, principally when the scenes developed naturally with some nice interaction between historical characters such as Hen I have meant for some years to read this author's long novel about Richard III, so when this one instead appeared in a charity shop was tempted. I didn't know much about the period it covers other than remembering that the war between King Stephen and Empress/would-be Queen Maude (aka Matilda) forms the background to the Cadfael series by Ellis Peters.

I enjoyed this book in parts, principally when the scenes developed naturally with some nice interaction between historical characters such as Henry, future King, and Eleanor of Aquitaine. And the book was educational as I certainly know more about the period than beforehand. I wasn't so keen on the huge chunk that revolved around the imaginary character Ranulf and his friends/relations and his strung out hopeless love affair. I can see the point of putting such a character in scenes to interact with the real historical characters, to give a third party onlooker with whom the reader can identify and who can perhaps help to convey key facts, but there were extended interludes based around this character's misadventures elsewhere. I felt that the section in Wales was put in to allow the author to display her research about medieval Welsh society. In an already very long book, Ranulf's interactions away from the historical events must have added at least 200 pages of padding.

I also wasn't keen on certain aspects of the book's structure. There was a repeated style of scene where characters are discussing the events of the day and then someone bursts in, either with a message or to announce the arrival of a messenger. This was repeated so often I came to expect it whenever people were sitting down having a discussion. It made for a certain staleness and sense of deja vu. There were also quite a few places where someone explains all about something or someone to another character in an extended infodump, quite often done between made up characters who only appear for that purpose.

I also appreciate that there were a lot of characters in the real history, and many had the same or similar names, but it did get quite confusing at times and I just couldn't remember who someone from among the minor characters was, especially if they had been out of the picture for a few chapters. The list of characters at the start of the book only lists the main ones plus Ranulf and his invented friends and relations.

These issues made it a bit of a struggle to get through the book although I did persevere as I did want to know what happened and found the character of the future Henry II attractive. Therefore my overall rating balances out at 3 stars.

...more

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