My Book Reviews

I followed the author, Rosemary, on social media before I requested this advance copy. Rosemary had posted a stunning picture of Dartington Hall, and a little bit about the story of Isabeu, Countess of Montgomery and Rorberda who lived there. I was instantly intrigued and wanted to know more, so was delighted when I had the opportunity to review The Dartington Bride.

I thought this was an unique, interesting and personal piece of historical fiction, that focuses on a woman who grows up surrounded by conflict, from growing up in war torn France to fighting for a doomed marriage.

Roberda’s …

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 22 March 2024
Rosemary Griggs has created a fascinating niche within the historical fiction genre with her 'Daughters of Devon' series of novels. She focuses on the noble women now almost forgotten by the history books.
I found this story of Lady Gabrielle Roberda Montgomery particularly compelling. I was gripped from the very beginning when Roberda's father was held responsible for the death of King Henri II of France. The French Wars of Religion become a family affair for the young Roberda as she witnesses men with pride, ambition, and recklessness battle against the enmity of …

Rosemary Griggs brings a welcome breath of fresh air to the historical novel, avoiding the commercial entrapment of concentrating on the Kings and Queens of England and the Royal Court.
The heroine here is Katherine Champernowne, an educated Devon woman born during the tumultuous reign of King Henry VIII. Tudor and Elizabethan Devon is brought vividly to life. As her children grow older we learn of events on the world stage but keep the focus on the Gilbert and Raleigh families into which Katherine has married.
This is the remarkable story of a strong, brave woman surviving plagues, religious dissent and the …

A solid read. Interesting storyline set in Tudor times. I enjoyed learning more about the Huguenots of France and their plight. The MC was a little hard for me to like but I did enjoy her story.

Original review April 6, 2024 via Goodreads

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/208812537-the-dartington-bride

The Dartington Bride is a fascinating book which is inspired by true events. I have not read or watched much media surrounding this particular facet of the Elizabethan Era, so diving into that world kept me captivated!

It is horrifying how dreadfully some of those men acted; even more terrible is the fact that many of the instances described actually happened (or a variation did).

Rosemary Griggs is a great storyteller who transports you to her settings and into the characters' lives. I will be seeking out more of her works!

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with the …