My Book Reviews

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, 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

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 …

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

An extremely enjoyable book. Set during the Huguenot wars in France, the story follows the life of Roberda, the daughter of one of the leaders of the French Protestant army. She is married off into English protestant nobility and moves to Dartington. Broadly based on historical characters, the story follows Roberta's life from childhood to the breakdown of her marriage. The book was a joy to read flowing at a steady pace with enough details of the political intrigue at the time without getting bogged down. It was a pleasure to read a book that followed one timeline without jumping …