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An evocative and compelling first-person account from a woman's perspective

April 29, 2024, 10:36 a.m. A review for 'The Dartington Bride', by Tony Riches, Historical Fiction Author

... a surprisingly topical exploration of the consequences of religious wars on innocent women, and the hardships faced by refugees.

This second novel from Rosemary Griggs in her ‘Daughters of Devon’ series builds on her award-winning debut with the story of the life of Katherine Raleigh, 'A Woman of Noble Wit'.

As with her first book, Rosemary Griggs has drawn from well-researched historical events and the people of Devon, England.

Lady Gabrielle Montgomery, known by her family as Roberda, flees the religious wars of France for Dartington Hall in Devon, where each day presents new challenges.

I particularly like the way Rosemary Griggs uses her experience as a guide at Dartington Hall to create an evocative and compelling first-person …


An enthralling historical tale with a rich tapestry of drama and resilience

April 29, 2024, 10:25 a.m. A review for 'The Dartington Bride', by Katrina W, Reviewer

With its well-drawn characters, engaging plot twists, and immersive historical setting, "The Dartington Bride" offers a captivating glimpse into the sights, sounds, and tensions of Elizabethan England.

If you're seeking an enthralling historical tale with a rich tapestry of drama and resilience, "The Dartington Bride" by Rosemary Griggs fits the bill perfectly. Set against the backdrop of 16th-century England and France, this novel delves into the life of Roberda, a headstrong French bride thrust into the heart of English nobility.

Griggs paints a vivid picture of Roberda's journey from her tumultuous upbringing amidst the chaos of the French Wars of Religion to her hopeful arrival in England for marriage. As she faces the challenges of integrating into a skeptical household and winning over a disinterested husband, Roberda's …


A very well researched novel

April 29, 2024, 10:21 a.m. A review for 'The Dartington Bride', by Mary H, Reviewer

Brilliant characters are very well drawn.

A very well researched novel, particularly in dealing with the French Wars of Religion. Brilliant characters are very well drawn. I recommend the novel highly. Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for giving me a copy of the book.

Original review via net galley: https://www.netgalley.co.uk/catalog/book/343169



Rosemary Griggs brings to life Elizabethan politics and reveals the complexity of being a woman in Tudor England without slowing down the story's pace,

This is the story of Lady Gabrielle Roberda Montgomery (Roberda), told to us by Roberda herself, which starts in France with 5 year old Roberda fleeing Paris with her family after her father was held responsible for the death of King Henri II of France. The French Civil Wars between the Huguenots and Catholics become a family affair for the young Roberda with her family's pride and ambition,battling against the enmity of the widowed, Queen Dowager, Catherine de Medici, and her quest for revenge for her husband's death. Roberda 's mother is fierce , determined and so driven that she …


An interesting read.

April 29, 2024, 10:10 a.m. A review for 'The Dartington Bride', by Jeanie R, Reviewer

The second book I've read by this author, I liked it better than the first

The second book I've read by this author, I liked it better than the first. Set in my fav time period it's a interesting look at young French bride brought to England and eventually Devon. Her husband is a horrid man who treats her poorly and eventually tries to set her aside. More interestingis the story of the French Huguenots and their coming to England affter the St. Bartholomews Massacre in Paris. An interesting read.

Original review via Net Galley: https://www.netgalley.co.uk/catalog/book/343169