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Glastonbury Grail #1
Glastonbury Tor
When his mother dies, sixteen-year-old Colin is consumed with hate for his harsh, demanding father. Looking for a true relationship with Christ and purification for his hateful heart, he journeys to the historic monastery at Glastonbury, within whose walls lies the Holy Grail. In this captivating novel centered around Glastonbury Tor (Hill), a young man seeks salvation as the Catholic Church finds itself in turmoil during the reign of Henry VIII.
240 pages, Paperback
First published September 29, 2006
2 people are currently reading
124 people want to read
About the author
LeAnne Hardy
13 books40 followersAlthough I grew up in the Midwest of the United States, I have lived in six countries on four continents. I have sipped cream tea in Oxfordshire, eaten stewed goat at a Mozambican wedding, slid down rocks in a Mato Grosso river and shopped at Mall of America. My books for children and young people come out of my cross-cultural experiences and my passion to use story to convey spiritual truths in a form that will permeate the lives of children and young people. I recently returned to the Northwoods of Wisconsin after three years in Johannesburg, South Africa, where I focused on writing for children affected by HIV/AIDS, teaching writing workshops and reading stories in after-school programs in Tembisa Township.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
June 15, 2009
Perhaps the finest novel I’ve ever read about the Reformation, LeAnne Hardy manages to weave an incredibly suspenseful coming-of-age tale which also depicts the travesty of the dissolution–sacking—of the English Benedictine monasteries and yet teaches an unforgettable conundrum about forgiveness as well. In the words of a dying abbot, ‘“…’tis a curious thing: Only those who are forgiven are able truly to forgive. And only those who forgive are free to receive forgiveness.”’ This gentle truth haunts the young hero, Colin, as he flees Wales for the abbey at Glastonbury after trying to kill his own father who he blames for the death of his beloved mother.
This work of historical fiction is set during the time immediately after the death of King Henry VIII’s third–and most beloved–of his six wives, Jane Seymour, in childbirth when she bore Henry’s only male heir. Henry needed money and the monasteries represented the largest source of untapped wealth available to the monarch and self-appointed head of the state religion. But the truly amazing thing about Hardy’s novel is how she manages to rise above the usual messy mudslinging in her story and reveal the truth. Most historical fiction devoted to the Tudor era either sides with one of the two competing religious denominations determined to blame the other for all the evils of the time, or it attempts to take some nebulous high road of secularism which insists that religion itself is to blame for the wars and sufferings of mankind, as if the atheistic slaughter of the last century hasn’t more than disproved that theory. In Glastonbury Tor, Hardy shows that it wasn’t Latin chanting Catholic monks or Protestants hungering after the Word of God in English who were the enemy. Hatred, anger, vengeance, greed, pride, lust, self-righteousness and – most of all – lack of forgiveness, are the enemy. SIN is the enemy now as it was then.
Besides a fascinating account of the sad ‘stripping of the altars’, which led to the demise of the once great Glastonbury Abbey, we are also treated to a brief glimpse—in the beginning—of what was once at the very least, a moderately well-run abbey.¹
In addition to all the other wonderful features of this book, Ms. Hardy also manages to introduce some speculation and wonder of her own about the existence and eventual disposition of the tomb of King Arthur and the Holy Grail itself. It certainly adds spice to the story.
A delightful summer – or anytime – read suitable for youth ages fourteen and up. Highly recommended!
¹ Again, it is the popular view of many secular historians and probably the general public at large that monasteries as a whole were hotbeds of corruption and vice. This is not necessarily borne out by the spiritual and intellectual writings of the period, but seems a recent so-called ‘scholarly’ trend reflecting more on the spiritual poverty of our own age than on that of our ancestors. No doubt, there were good and bad monasteries and they fluctuated in the fervency of their devotions from time-to-time. Reforms were often called for, administered and down the road, renewals of the reforms were also needed. Nevertheless, that the monasteries existed for as long as they did, encompassed such vast areas, were operated and inhabited by so many individuals who promoted peace, productivity, stability and most of all, accountability to God, it seems highly unlikely they were largely evil institutions.
This work of historical fiction is set during the time immediately after the death of King Henry VIII’s third–and most beloved–of his six wives, Jane Seymour, in childbirth when she bore Henry’s only male heir. Henry needed money and the monasteries represented the largest source of untapped wealth available to the monarch and self-appointed head of the state religion. But the truly amazing thing about Hardy’s novel is how she manages to rise above the usual messy mudslinging in her story and reveal the truth. Most historical fiction devoted to the Tudor era either sides with one of the two competing religious denominations determined to blame the other for all the evils of the time, or it attempts to take some nebulous high road of secularism which insists that religion itself is to blame for the wars and sufferings of mankind, as if the atheistic slaughter of the last century hasn’t more than disproved that theory. In Glastonbury Tor, Hardy shows that it wasn’t Latin chanting Catholic monks or Protestants hungering after the Word of God in English who were the enemy. Hatred, anger, vengeance, greed, pride, lust, self-righteousness and – most of all – lack of forgiveness, are the enemy. SIN is the enemy now as it was then.
Besides a fascinating account of the sad ‘stripping of the altars’, which led to the demise of the once great Glastonbury Abbey, we are also treated to a brief glimpse—in the beginning—of what was once at the very least, a moderately well-run abbey.¹
In addition to all the other wonderful features of this book, Ms. Hardy also manages to introduce some speculation and wonder of her own about the existence and eventual disposition of the tomb of King Arthur and the Holy Grail itself. It certainly adds spice to the story.
A delightful summer – or anytime – read suitable for youth ages fourteen and up. Highly recommended!
¹ Again, it is the popular view of many secular historians and probably the general public at large that monasteries as a whole were hotbeds of corruption and vice. This is not necessarily borne out by the spiritual and intellectual writings of the period, but seems a recent so-called ‘scholarly’ trend reflecting more on the spiritual poverty of our own age than on that of our ancestors. No doubt, there were good and bad monasteries and they fluctuated in the fervency of their devotions from time-to-time. Reforms were often called for, administered and down the road, renewals of the reforms were also needed. Nevertheless, that the monasteries existed for as long as they did, encompassed such vast areas, were operated and inhabited by so many individuals who promoted peace, productivity, stability and most of all, accountability to God, it seems highly unlikely they were largely evil institutions.
March 10, 2022
This is a different but surprising take on medieval/Reformation England. It combines so many things I love about the period and we also get to follow a broken monk. How awesome!
Glastonbury follows a young man, Colin, who desires to be and become a monk. (And yes he becomes one) He was written very believably and I was surprised to find Colin's mindset similar to an actual medieval man's. Loved that.
This book is loaded with medieval tidbits and chock full of historical facts. Leanna even delves into a bit of King Arthur and the Holy Grail. It has a slower pace but I loved it. There is no romance but I loved it all the more for it.
It a very enjoyable historical read that made me get excited about monks eating in silence.
Glastonbury follows a young man, Colin, who desires to be and become a monk. (And yes he becomes one) He was written very believably and I was surprised to find Colin's mindset similar to an actual medieval man's. Loved that.
This book is loaded with medieval tidbits and chock full of historical facts. Leanna even delves into a bit of King Arthur and the Holy Grail. It has a slower pace but I loved it. There is no romance but I loved it all the more for it.
It a very enjoyable historical read that made me get excited about monks eating in silence.
July 25, 2011
It's fun to read historic fiction and Glastonbury Tor by LeAnne Hardy is especially enjoyable. This book is about Colin, a young man who feels tremendous guilt for something he did in the past and tries to redeem himself by praying often and fasting and permitting himself to be put in a punishment cell. As the story unfolds we see glimpses of what life was like during a period of time when Catholics and Protestants were in power alternately depending on who was on the throne (or who was married to the person on the throne).
The plot of this book takes place at a time when the Catholics are losing power and the Protestants are ransacking all the monasteries and taking away gold, silver and jewels and anything else of value. Monks are being hung for treason. True believers are meeting and reading the Bible in secret for fear of being punished as heretics.
I'm am so very grateful that we have access to Bibles and can openly read as much as we choose whenever we choose. I am trying to evaluate what my life would be like if I were not permitted to read the Bible because only a person in authority had that right ~ and even when read the reading would be in Latin. I am also reminded that there are people in other countries who are being put in prison and even dying because of their belief in God. Finally, I'm so thankful that Christ died for our sins and we can be forgiven is we accept His free gift of eternal life. "Not of works, lest any man should boast".
Kregel Publishers have provided me with a complimentary copy of this book.
The plot of this book takes place at a time when the Catholics are losing power and the Protestants are ransacking all the monasteries and taking away gold, silver and jewels and anything else of value. Monks are being hung for treason. True believers are meeting and reading the Bible in secret for fear of being punished as heretics.
I'm am so very grateful that we have access to Bibles and can openly read as much as we choose whenever we choose. I am trying to evaluate what my life would be like if I were not permitted to read the Bible because only a person in authority had that right ~ and even when read the reading would be in Latin. I am also reminded that there are people in other countries who are being put in prison and even dying because of their belief in God. Finally, I'm so thankful that Christ died for our sins and we can be forgiven is we accept His free gift of eternal life. "Not of works, lest any man should boast".
Kregel Publishers have provided me with a complimentary copy of this book.
March 28, 2021
Set in 16th century England against the backdrop of religious conflict and the dissolution of the monasteries, we follow a fictional character who is caught up in real events.
Collin flees to Glastonbury Abbey after a violent fight with his father. He becomes a novice at a time when the monasteries are under threat from King Henry. Collin is a compelling character, and we follow him as he gets to know the various monks in the monastery, and develops a friendship with a local family suspected of heretical views and subversive practices (mostly reading the Bible in English). The cast of characters is large, but not overwhelming, and they are all well drawn and believable.
There are three strands to the story - the historical narrative, a mystical element around a wooden cup believed to be the Holy Grail and the threat of dark underworld forces, and finally the theme of forgiveness, which Collin needs to learn to receive and to give.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and kept thinking about the characters when I stopped reading. I look forward to reading the next in the series. While there is a sequel this book is complete in itself with a satisfying ending.
Collin flees to Glastonbury Abbey after a violent fight with his father. He becomes a novice at a time when the monasteries are under threat from King Henry. Collin is a compelling character, and we follow him as he gets to know the various monks in the monastery, and develops a friendship with a local family suspected of heretical views and subversive practices (mostly reading the Bible in English). The cast of characters is large, but not overwhelming, and they are all well drawn and believable.
There are three strands to the story - the historical narrative, a mystical element around a wooden cup believed to be the Holy Grail and the threat of dark underworld forces, and finally the theme of forgiveness, which Collin needs to learn to receive and to give.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and kept thinking about the characters when I stopped reading. I look forward to reading the next in the series. While there is a sequel this book is complete in itself with a satisfying ending.
June 13, 2021
This fantastical tale truly deserves to be read for its excellent writing—and especially if you like thrillers with a theme of spiritual warfare! Taking place in Medieval England at Glastonbury Tor Monastery, at a time of religious persecution, when monasteries were just starting to be be closed. Young Colin has recently become a novice, and he is given great unforeseen responsibilities when it becomes evident that their monastery is the one that has been sought after—for it contains something within its foundation...
The Christian elements are organic and integral to the story, telling an excellent, original, historical fantasy involving themes around the ultimate and never-ending battle between good and evil. Highly recommend, for the story itself, and also for the author’s truly excellent, poetic writing style, which I have long admired, in this book and all of Leanne Hardy’s books.
The Christian elements are organic and integral to the story, telling an excellent, original, historical fantasy involving themes around the ultimate and never-ending battle between good and evil. Highly recommend, for the story itself, and also for the author’s truly excellent, poetic writing style, which I have long admired, in this book and all of Leanne Hardy’s books.
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October 7, 2020This was never intended to be the first in a series, but Colin's world of the early English Reformation was just too interesting to leave behind. I try to write in a way those those who know nothing about the time period will see it unfolding before their eyes and those who do know will see nothing to disrupt their fiction dream.
July 25, 2011
There are several things I really like about Glastonbury Tor. First, I love the descriptive nature of Hardy’s writing. She paints such a lovely picture with words, I had no trouble seeing the images in my minds eye at all during the entire novel. Having spent a great deal of time there has obviously helped the author capture the former grandeur that must have been Glastonbury Abbey during the reign of Henry VIII. Whether it was the dark, poorly lit confines of the abbey and monastery or the living conditions of the villagers, the lifestyle of the monks of Glastonbury or the dealings of the abbey’s other property and holdings, it all comes in magnificent detail. Even those with the dullest of imaginations would find their minds stirred by the depictions here.
Second, I love the time period. The middle ages, as well as the turn into the Reformation, in England fascinate me. It wouldn’t matter if this was historical fiction or just plain history, I would have enjoyed this book due to the time period covered. Once again, I think Hardy captures the flavor of a tumultuous time in Great Britain’s past. I would recommend this book to middle school history teachers for their students to have an enjoyable look into this era of England’s history.
I enjoyed the searching tension produced within the main character’s life while on his quest for true forgiveness. There are moments of almost pure agony while Colin seeks the forgiveness of God, of his father, of his superiors, and of a family of Protestants in the nearby village of Meare. As you’re reading, you can almost sense the weight upon this young teen’s shoulders, bearing him down, like the sucking and clutching mud of one of the bogs in which he nearly gets stuck. Then, when the object of his heart’s desire appears closer, the refreshing breeze which blows through your own heart allows you a measure of relief.
Hardy also does a fine job of treading carefully, in an historical fictional novel’s setting, the line between Catholic and Protestant belief, doctrine and practice. At first, being a Protestant pastor who holds the Reformation very dear to his heart, this was quite vexing. However, the more I came to realize this was not meant to be a theological treatise on the value of the reformation or the Catholic church at the time of the reformation, but rather a simple telling of the story of a few of the people’s lives during that time, the more I was able to just relax and enjoy the storyline. If you read this and try to force the character’s into one of those major divisions of Christianity as right or wrong, you’re going to come away frustrated. Take this fun, summer-time read and just let it be a story, not a doctrinal discourse.
I highly recommend this book. If you have teens in your home, give this to them to read before the summer’s over. Tell them to put their Netflix movies aside, stop texting for a couple of hours, go sit under a tree and travel back in time to a far different setting. They’ll be glad they did. Oh, and by the way, read it yourself and you’ll be glad you did.
Second, I love the time period. The middle ages, as well as the turn into the Reformation, in England fascinate me. It wouldn’t matter if this was historical fiction or just plain history, I would have enjoyed this book due to the time period covered. Once again, I think Hardy captures the flavor of a tumultuous time in Great Britain’s past. I would recommend this book to middle school history teachers for their students to have an enjoyable look into this era of England’s history.
I enjoyed the searching tension produced within the main character’s life while on his quest for true forgiveness. There are moments of almost pure agony while Colin seeks the forgiveness of God, of his father, of his superiors, and of a family of Protestants in the nearby village of Meare. As you’re reading, you can almost sense the weight upon this young teen’s shoulders, bearing him down, like the sucking and clutching mud of one of the bogs in which he nearly gets stuck. Then, when the object of his heart’s desire appears closer, the refreshing breeze which blows through your own heart allows you a measure of relief.
Hardy also does a fine job of treading carefully, in an historical fictional novel’s setting, the line between Catholic and Protestant belief, doctrine and practice. At first, being a Protestant pastor who holds the Reformation very dear to his heart, this was quite vexing. However, the more I came to realize this was not meant to be a theological treatise on the value of the reformation or the Catholic church at the time of the reformation, but rather a simple telling of the story of a few of the people’s lives during that time, the more I was able to just relax and enjoy the storyline. If you read this and try to force the character’s into one of those major divisions of Christianity as right or wrong, you’re going to come away frustrated. Take this fun, summer-time read and just let it be a story, not a doctrinal discourse.
I highly recommend this book. If you have teens in your home, give this to them to read before the summer’s over. Tell them to put their Netflix movies aside, stop texting for a couple of hours, go sit under a tree and travel back in time to a far different setting. They’ll be glad they did. Oh, and by the way, read it yourself and you’ll be glad you did.
July 26, 2011
LeAnne Hardy writes a wonderful, historical novel in Glastonbury Tor. Before beginning this novel I confess that I had to look up Glastonbury Tor. I wasn't familiar with what Glastonbury Tor meant but I found out that this is no ordinary place; in fact, it is considered to be a holy place where people go and after climbing up the hill they are different people as they come down the hill chanting and singing....maybe not changed people but definitely "enlightened" and seemingly happier.
As I began reading Glastonbury Tor my heart ached for Colin and his mom. Colin's father is a wicked, selfish man who only wants to satisfy his own desires.
Colin never really knew his father and then a tragedy strikes. Colin runs away seeking something that he's never known.
The language and descriptions of the book took me back to Medieval times. Times when people had to seek the Good and that is exactly what Colin does.
He has a "coming of age transformation." He seeks the truth trying to rid himself of the the terrible anger he has against his own father. An anger he feels may consume him.
Colin is counseled by Father David to make his way to Glastonbury. Father David tells Colin that he has the gift of learning and the monks at Glastonbury can teach him more than ,he, Father David knows.
So, Colin begins his life's journey. However, upon reaching Glastonbury, Colin is told by the Abbot that he may stay as long as he needs for a spiritual retreat.
The story continues and the "simplicity" of the unlearned mind is also revealed in this story. As "the great library was sold, piece by piece. Few outside of the abbey valued reading, and one day I saw customers leaving the fishmonger's with purchases wrapped in illuminated missal that had been laboriously copied before their great-gradsires were born." (p. 174) Even though people were quite uneducated it was the "voice" of the educated who saved and carried on the work so that others could learn.
Of course, there is a bit of romance in this lovely read. God and the Holy Word are incorporated into this truly great story allowing the reader to see how God works all things for our good!
This 5 star read flows allowing the reader to "cross over" into another time and another place.
If you're a history buff and love to read of days gone by then don't miss this great read!
BUY BOOK HERE!
*This book was provided for review by Kregel Publications*
As I began reading Glastonbury Tor my heart ached for Colin and his mom. Colin's father is a wicked, selfish man who only wants to satisfy his own desires.
Colin never really knew his father and then a tragedy strikes. Colin runs away seeking something that he's never known.
The language and descriptions of the book took me back to Medieval times. Times when people had to seek the Good and that is exactly what Colin does.
He has a "coming of age transformation." He seeks the truth trying to rid himself of the the terrible anger he has against his own father. An anger he feels may consume him.
Colin is counseled by Father David to make his way to Glastonbury. Father David tells Colin that he has the gift of learning and the monks at Glastonbury can teach him more than ,he, Father David knows.
So, Colin begins his life's journey. However, upon reaching Glastonbury, Colin is told by the Abbot that he may stay as long as he needs for a spiritual retreat.
The story continues and the "simplicity" of the unlearned mind is also revealed in this story. As "the great library was sold, piece by piece. Few outside of the abbey valued reading, and one day I saw customers leaving the fishmonger's with purchases wrapped in illuminated missal that had been laboriously copied before their great-gradsires were born." (p. 174) Even though people were quite uneducated it was the "voice" of the educated who saved and carried on the work so that others could learn.
Of course, there is a bit of romance in this lovely read. God and the Holy Word are incorporated into this truly great story allowing the reader to see how God works all things for our good!
This 5 star read flows allowing the reader to "cross over" into another time and another place.
If you're a history buff and love to read of days gone by then don't miss this great read!
BUY BOOK HERE!
*This book was provided for review by Kregel Publications*
July 25, 2011
Living under the rule of King Henry VIII whose greatest desire is a fondness for tournaments and lavish palaces, the persecution of the church was underway in England during the 16th Century. Being in possession of a Bible was considered a crime. Only the priests from the church were allowed to read it and decipher the meaning of its Latin words. This way they maintained a control over the church and it's people. The belief that if unlearned men read it for themselves, they would fall into all sorts of errors.
So when seventeen-year old Collen is sent into exile for the attempted murder of his father, he makes his new home in the Glastonbury Abbey in order to study and become a monk, like his mother had long hoped for him. Only now she was dead, giving birth to his still born sister, and whose death he has blamed on his father. Now living in the monastery, he hopes in addition to making his mother proud, he can find forgiveness and salvation for the sin against his father.
When the Thatcher family provides him a place to sleep one night on his way to the monastery, he finds that not only can the daughter read, but that the family has possession of an English Bible, therefore allowing them to understand the mysteries of the Bible, that before had only been for the privileged Latin speaking priests. So while the King is attempting to close the monasteries down all over England, Collen becomes confused over what he learns about Jesus in the Bible from his time at the monastery and the grace that is available to him from the Thatcher family.
I received Glastonbury Tor by LeAnne Hardy, compliments of Kregel Publications for my honest review. This is a fictional story laced with historical accuracies of the early persecution of the religious freedoms of the church. Just understanding the penalty for reading an English Bible back then and the luxury we take for granted now is a huge eye opener for any believer of God. While we know persecution continues even today in many third world countries, just the details that Hardy pulls into the story makes you appreciate what is available to me even today with my own Bible and attending church. This book rates a 4.5 out of 5 stars and is available in paperback.
So when seventeen-year old Collen is sent into exile for the attempted murder of his father, he makes his new home in the Glastonbury Abbey in order to study and become a monk, like his mother had long hoped for him. Only now she was dead, giving birth to his still born sister, and whose death he has blamed on his father. Now living in the monastery, he hopes in addition to making his mother proud, he can find forgiveness and salvation for the sin against his father.
When the Thatcher family provides him a place to sleep one night on his way to the monastery, he finds that not only can the daughter read, but that the family has possession of an English Bible, therefore allowing them to understand the mysteries of the Bible, that before had only been for the privileged Latin speaking priests. So while the King is attempting to close the monasteries down all over England, Collen becomes confused over what he learns about Jesus in the Bible from his time at the monastery and the grace that is available to him from the Thatcher family.
I received Glastonbury Tor by LeAnne Hardy, compliments of Kregel Publications for my honest review. This is a fictional story laced with historical accuracies of the early persecution of the religious freedoms of the church. Just understanding the penalty for reading an English Bible back then and the luxury we take for granted now is a huge eye opener for any believer of God. While we know persecution continues even today in many third world countries, just the details that Hardy pulls into the story makes you appreciate what is available to me even today with my own Bible and attending church. This book rates a 4.5 out of 5 stars and is available in paperback.
July 28, 2011
One of my favorite ways to learn about events in the past is through fictional books with accurate historical details. That is exactly what I got when I read Glastonbury Tor. From author LeeAnne Hardy comes a tale that interweaves lessons of forgiveness with incredible historical occurrences. I loved following Colin through his journey of discovering who he was, what was right in the eyes of God, and just how far the arms of forgiveness can stretch. Tears threatened to spill and my heart ached at times for Colin as he trudged through his youth in search of his purpose in life.
The thing I liked most about the story was how much I got to learn about the monks. No offense to any monks reading my blog(:P) but they are weird! At least back then they were. They were strict! And some of their punishments were completely nuts. But even still, I enjoyed looking into the monastery life.
Out of all the characters, Wil was definitely my favorite. The little boy with a big heart. He was so loveable! I looked forward to every scene that included him or his family. His whole family was amazing, taking on many dangers by keeping and reading a Bible in their home. The light romance between Colin, while barely even there, was a sweet add.
As for the content, there is little to say. At the beginning, his father comes into the room and it is obvious he is going to bed with his (abused)wife and he says something to Colin about staying in the room so he can learn about what he was going to do to her since he was "near a man". He kisses her hard and also accuses a guy of having a relationship with his wife. But other than that, as far as sensuality goes that's it.
There is a bit of violence, such as a scene with a sword fight in it, but nothing was too graphic.
Also, there was a little bit of demonic forces in it, but it was obviously evil and there wasn't too much in it.
A word of warning: this is not an action-packed adventure, but if you are a fan of historical fiction, you will love this book!
The thing I liked most about the story was how much I got to learn about the monks. No offense to any monks reading my blog(:P) but they are weird! At least back then they were. They were strict! And some of their punishments were completely nuts. But even still, I enjoyed looking into the monastery life.
Out of all the characters, Wil was definitely my favorite. The little boy with a big heart. He was so loveable! I looked forward to every scene that included him or his family. His whole family was amazing, taking on many dangers by keeping and reading a Bible in their home. The light romance between Colin, while barely even there, was a sweet add.
As for the content, there is little to say. At the beginning, his father comes into the room and it is obvious he is going to bed with his (abused)wife and he says something to Colin about staying in the room so he can learn about what he was going to do to her since he was "near a man". He kisses her hard and also accuses a guy of having a relationship with his wife. But other than that, as far as sensuality goes that's it.
There is a bit of violence, such as a scene with a sword fight in it, but nothing was too graphic.
Also, there was a little bit of demonic forces in it, but it was obviously evil and there wasn't too much in it.
A word of warning: this is not an action-packed adventure, but if you are a fan of historical fiction, you will love this book!
July 28, 2011
No Ordinary Journey
Having thought he killed his father, Colin decides to flee to the nearest monastery. His brother finds him and tells him that although their father was not killed, he was definitely angry. Colin needs no urging to move along to a monastery at Glastonbury (his mother had wanted him to be a monk). On Colin's journey he accepts a ride from a farmer who invites him to stay the night. It was there he first learned of people who were reading the Bible in their own tongue. This knowledge creates quite a battle of conscience for one who has been taught that only priests can understand and explain Holy Scripture. As he interacts with this family over time, he sees first hand a family wanting to live out the teaching of Jesus--especially by forgiving their enemies--something Colin finds hard to do.
At Glastonbury, Colin seems to get off on the wrong foot with Father Bede who carries some influence at the abbey. Every misstep seems to be caught by Bede and he suggests stiff penalties. Colin bears up under the pressure and refuses to be beaten...showing great courage and fortitude (which even Father Bede grudgingly recognizes later).
One element woven into the story is the idea that the Holy Grail is stored within the treasury of the abbey. When it becomes certain that the king will come raid the church's stores, the cup is hidden (this action later leads to dire consequences). Colin has a rare gift of seeing visions of Christ's glory when the cup is used. The temptation to own it soon becomes Father Bede's passion. And as the monastery closes, the fate of the cup hangs in the balance.
Will Colin be able to thwart the forces of darkness that seek to use the cup for evil? Can he ever bring himself to forgive his father? You'll want to read the book for yourself to find out how the story concludes.
Having thought he killed his father, Colin decides to flee to the nearest monastery. His brother finds him and tells him that although their father was not killed, he was definitely angry. Colin needs no urging to move along to a monastery at Glastonbury (his mother had wanted him to be a monk). On Colin's journey he accepts a ride from a farmer who invites him to stay the night. It was there he first learned of people who were reading the Bible in their own tongue. This knowledge creates quite a battle of conscience for one who has been taught that only priests can understand and explain Holy Scripture. As he interacts with this family over time, he sees first hand a family wanting to live out the teaching of Jesus--especially by forgiving their enemies--something Colin finds hard to do.
At Glastonbury, Colin seems to get off on the wrong foot with Father Bede who carries some influence at the abbey. Every misstep seems to be caught by Bede and he suggests stiff penalties. Colin bears up under the pressure and refuses to be beaten...showing great courage and fortitude (which even Father Bede grudgingly recognizes later).
One element woven into the story is the idea that the Holy Grail is stored within the treasury of the abbey. When it becomes certain that the king will come raid the church's stores, the cup is hidden (this action later leads to dire consequences). Colin has a rare gift of seeing visions of Christ's glory when the cup is used. The temptation to own it soon becomes Father Bede's passion. And as the monastery closes, the fate of the cup hangs in the balance.
Will Colin be able to thwart the forces of darkness that seek to use the cup for evil? Can he ever bring himself to forgive his father? You'll want to read the book for yourself to find out how the story concludes.
January 16, 2012
Colin's mother has always wanted her son to be a monk and a scholar. His father despises him for his ways and wishes he would become a man. He is a violent and drunken man, and it is his lust that causes the death of Colin's mom and unborn sister. Filled with hate and grieving, Colin slides a sword into his father's belly. He is shocked at his own actions and knows that he will never get to see him mom in heaven now because he has murdered his father.
But Colin's father is not dead, just very very angry. Colin's oldest brother urges Colin to pack what he can carry and to seek out their father's cousin in the Monastary. Out of sight, out of mind. But on Colin's journey, he stays the night at the home of Nathanial Thatcher. There, he is treated with kindness, but the daughter reads, which is unheard of, and they own a Bible, which is against the law. Only priests may own and read from a Bible.
But they take him to the Monastary, where he is taken in as a novice. Some of the monks are earnest in their dedication to God and some just go through the motions. At this time, Henry VIII is King, so the background of the story if filled with turmoil. The monks believe the Thatchers to be heretics, but Colin only finds them kind and there is a splash of romance, but by no means, the main part of the story. When a priest seeks power and wants to destroy a treasure within, things come to a head. But can Colin get rid of his hate and forgive himself so that he can learn to help others?
This coming of age story is brimming with historical facts and filled with clever and unique characters that blend into a page-turning story. Hardy weaves a masterful novel with crooks and crannies just waiting to be delved into and revealed. I really enjoyed it and I believe my teenagers will too. It carries several strong messages and is easy to read and follow along.
But Colin's father is not dead, just very very angry. Colin's oldest brother urges Colin to pack what he can carry and to seek out their father's cousin in the Monastary. Out of sight, out of mind. But on Colin's journey, he stays the night at the home of Nathanial Thatcher. There, he is treated with kindness, but the daughter reads, which is unheard of, and they own a Bible, which is against the law. Only priests may own and read from a Bible.
But they take him to the Monastary, where he is taken in as a novice. Some of the monks are earnest in their dedication to God and some just go through the motions. At this time, Henry VIII is King, so the background of the story if filled with turmoil. The monks believe the Thatchers to be heretics, but Colin only finds them kind and there is a splash of romance, but by no means, the main part of the story. When a priest seeks power and wants to destroy a treasure within, things come to a head. But can Colin get rid of his hate and forgive himself so that he can learn to help others?
This coming of age story is brimming with historical facts and filled with clever and unique characters that blend into a page-turning story. Hardy weaves a masterful novel with crooks and crannies just waiting to be delved into and revealed. I really enjoyed it and I believe my teenagers will too. It carries several strong messages and is easy to read and follow along.
July 25, 2011
I was fascinated by this book and its story. The author obviously did a great deal of research on the history of Glastonbury as well as the period of Henry VIII and his persecution of the church. Colin Hay, the protagonist of this story, grows from a young impetuous and angry young man into a true man of God. Besides being an awesome coming-of-age story and superb historical fiction, it is, at its heart a story of forgiveness. Colin and others must forgive those who persecute them in order to be obedient to God and also in order to receive forgiveness themselves. Little Wil reminds them all of this one simple biblical fact. Also important to the story is the conflict of doctrines between what Colin learns in the Catholic monastery and what he witnesses being practiced by the Thatcher family. The conflict between practicing religion and seeking a personal relationship with God is explored throughout the book. The author also delves into local tradition and folklore by having Colin fight evil in the form of Gwyn ap Nudd of the Celtic underworld. She includes King Arthur and the Holy Grail as well as the story of Joseph of Arimathea. Glastonbury Tor is very well-written book that takes the reader on a trip to Glastonbury, England during a turbulent time in history. Sometimes the book gets a bit preachy, but overall I highly recommend it. (Review copy provided by Kregel Publications)
July 30, 2011
This story takes place in 16th century England, during the reign of King Henry the VIII. Colin has just attempted to murder his father. This man who is so horrible to Colin’s mother and a no good drunkard. He is a mean and self serving man. In spite of the doctors warning that Colin’s mother bear no more children, she becomes pregnant resulting in a still born birth of Colin’s sister and her own death during child birth.
Colin who thinks his father is dead, flees to the nearest church to confess his crime. His older brother Walter comes in search of him and urges him to leave. Their father is not dead but very very angry at Colin for attempting to kill him.
Walter urges Colin to go to the monastery as their mother had always wanted. So he heads out for Glastonbury Abbey. On his journey to the abbey he stays with a family who owns a copy of the English Bible. It was forbidden to own a Bible during this time period. Only a priest can read from the Bible. This is a dangerous time for many and King Henry the VIII is moving against the Catholic church and closing monasteries all over England.
Colin enters Glastonbury Abbey as a novice and is faced with danger, has to confront evil and decide what true faith means.
This story is full of mystery and intrigue. LeAnne Hardy weaves a well written story that holds your interest until the very end!
I was given a copy of this book by Kregel Publications in exchange for my honest review.
Colin who thinks his father is dead, flees to the nearest church to confess his crime. His older brother Walter comes in search of him and urges him to leave. Their father is not dead but very very angry at Colin for attempting to kill him.
Walter urges Colin to go to the monastery as their mother had always wanted. So he heads out for Glastonbury Abbey. On his journey to the abbey he stays with a family who owns a copy of the English Bible. It was forbidden to own a Bible during this time period. Only a priest can read from the Bible. This is a dangerous time for many and King Henry the VIII is moving against the Catholic church and closing monasteries all over England.
Colin enters Glastonbury Abbey as a novice and is faced with danger, has to confront evil and decide what true faith means.
This story is full of mystery and intrigue. LeAnne Hardy weaves a well written story that holds your interest until the very end!
I was given a copy of this book by Kregel Publications in exchange for my honest review.
July 29, 2011
Colin Hay is heartbroken, and also overcome with rage at his father when his mother dies a needless death. At seventeen his love of books and writing had his cruel father belittling him, but his mother hoping that he would eventually become a monk. When his mother dies Colin's actions against his father ensures that Colin will have to leave home. He sets out on foot for Glastonbury hoping not only to full fill his mothers dream for him, but to also find forgiveness for the actions against his father. This is a time period that I have read very little about and found the historical aspect quite interesting.I felt as if I was being transported back in time to the days of King Arthur, when he decides to move away from the Catholic church so that he can divorce his wife and marry Anne Boleyn.A turbulent time in history to be sure. I thought the actions that caused Colin's mothers death was quite sad, and couldn't help but think that Colin's dad was nothing but a barbaric brute. For me the theme running thru this book was forgiveness, I kept wondering if Colin would find forgiveness for his father. I think this book would be great for teens, because it isn't just another coming of age story instead its also weaves in a nice history lesson.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
July 25, 2011
The book is called Glastonbury Tor and it is a story of a quest . . . a quest for forgiveness, a quest for knowledge, and overall a quest for self-discovery. Colin, the main character, is faced with many choices and conflicting family ideas of what his future should look like. His relationship with his dominant father is strained to say the least. His mother, who has died, always wanted him to be a monk and this guides him on a journey to discover what he wants for his life.
Set in the countryside in the days of King Henry VIII, the story is full of mystery, intrigue, relationships and belief. Although it is a work of fiction, the author, LeAnne Hardy, does a wonderful job of setting the tone and taking you back to a very different time and place.
LeAnne Hardy has traveled the world responding to God's call to be a missionary, a call that has taken her to Africa, South America, and Eastern Europe. The diverse settings and plots in her books have been inspired by her real-life encounters there. Many of the stories and scenes from her books come from her family's experiences on the mission field or are based on true stories of others.
Set in the countryside in the days of King Henry VIII, the story is full of mystery, intrigue, relationships and belief. Although it is a work of fiction, the author, LeAnne Hardy, does a wonderful job of setting the tone and taking you back to a very different time and place.
LeAnne Hardy has traveled the world responding to God's call to be a missionary, a call that has taken her to Africa, South America, and Eastern Europe. The diverse settings and plots in her books have been inspired by her real-life encounters there. Many of the stories and scenes from her books come from her family's experiences on the mission field or are based on true stories of others.
November 5, 2007
More like 3.5 stars...
Glastonbury Tor contains a lot of actual historical events and people. During the High Middle Ages and the reign of King Henry the VIII, corruption was rampant. Poor Colin leaves one abusive home and enters another when he seeks refuge in the Glastonbury Abby, though some of monks were kind toward him. He matured quite a bit during the year within which this novel occurs. Colin faced unspeakable evil, experienced situation straight from legends in Britain and of the ancient druids, and came in contact with relics alleged to have ties to Christ. Some of the events that occur in this book are obviously fictional as Christ does not inhabit a cup...the Holy Grail, despite legend. And Colin had visions that no one else could see. Nevertheless I found the story quite entertaining despite the lack of romance in the book. It's more of a coming of age novel about a teen boy who must overcome obstacles and confront evil as he learns about true faith.
Glastonbury Tor contains a lot of actual historical events and people. During the High Middle Ages and the reign of King Henry the VIII, corruption was rampant. Poor Colin leaves one abusive home and enters another when he seeks refuge in the Glastonbury Abby, though some of monks were kind toward him. He matured quite a bit during the year within which this novel occurs. Colin faced unspeakable evil, experienced situation straight from legends in Britain and of the ancient druids, and came in contact with relics alleged to have ties to Christ. Some of the events that occur in this book are obviously fictional as Christ does not inhabit a cup...the Holy Grail, despite legend. And Colin had visions that no one else could see. Nevertheless I found the story quite entertaining despite the lack of romance in the book. It's more of a coming of age novel about a teen boy who must overcome obstacles and confront evil as he learns about true faith.
September 1, 2014
Colin was a 16 year old whose father killed his mother by having sex with her when she had been told that another pregnancy would kill her. Colin thought that he killed his father--stabbing him in the side--and fled to Glastonbury Abbey where he aspired to become a monk. This was right at the time that King Henry VIII was stripping all the religious houses of their wealth, taking it for himself. Colin manages to escape, when the rest of the monks are being captured, tortured, and killed.
August 1, 2009
mandi recommended this book to me. she was right. there was quite a bit of historical info wrapped up in a good story. a young man tries to kill his father then runs off to join the monastery that holds the holy grail. at the time, cromwell was trying to wipe out the catholic church in england. the story hinges on forgiveness
July 27, 2011
Not only was this a great coming of age story of young Colin, it was a great history lesson too, on how our Bible came to be, and the struggles it went through. If you have teens in your home, I'd say turn off all the electronics, and hand them this book they will be transported back to a time an place and will experience what they watch and play on their video games! Highly recommend!!!!
June 19, 2008
Young Adult novel that takes place as Henry VIII is dismantling abbeys, this quick read provides a picture of Glastonbury Abbey and town as it once was. Maybe I liked it so much beacuse it gave me that picture and I was there just 2 weeks ago!
September 2, 2009
This is probably more like a 3.5... I really liked Colin and his story... I felt like I was back in the world of "Pillars of the Earth" give or take a couple of centuries... I liked the church history and the character development. Good read for those of you who enjoy Christian historical fiction.
June 13, 2014
A very compelling novel of this time-period. Much like Pillars of the Earth and World Without End.
I especially liked the fact that it was steeped in a real time period with real events and some of the people in the story were real people.
I especially liked the fact that it was steeped in a real time period with real events and some of the people in the story were real people.
August 10, 2011
Christian Historical Fiction, a very interesting read based on actual events. The tale will keep you guessing until the final page. A worthwhile read.
July 26, 2011
Great book for a quick read!
June 29, 2015
I really liked this book a lot. I am looking forward to reading the next one
May 2, 2017
Very interesting book, the ending drug out a little and would have loved deeper relationships.
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