A Place Beyond Courage

Description

The early twelfth century is a time for ambitious men to prosper, and royal servant John FitzGilbert Marshal is one of them. Raised high as the kin of the deceased King Henry battle each other for England s throne, John reaps rich rewards but pays a terrible price for the choices he makes - as do his family. His wife, fragile, naive Aline is hopelessly unequipped to cope with the demands of a life lived on the edge and, when John is seriously injured in battle, her worst nightmare is realised. Sybilla, bright, forthright sister to the Earl of Salisbury, finds herself used as a bargaining counter when her brother seeks to seal a truce with his troublesome neighbour, John FitzGilbert. And then there is Sybilla s small son, William, seized hostage by the King for John s word of honour. But sometimes keeping your honour means breaking your word...

Elizabeth Chadwick lives near Nottingham with her husband, two sons and assorted animals including cats, dog and guinea pigs. She is the author of many historical novels, four of which have been shortlisted for awards.

'The best writer of mediaeval fiction currently around' - HISTORICAL NOVEL REVIEW 'Elizabeth Chadwick knows exactly how to write convincing and compelling historical fiction' - Marina Oliver 'Chadwick's historical grasp is secure and vivid in this punchy prequel to her last two FitzGilbert epics...an absorbing narrative that canters along' - FINANCIAL TIMES 'The author's facts are well researched, and her use of genuine people of the day intermingled with fictitious characters makes for a spellbinding story. She tells history as it was, but in an eminently readable form which can do nothing other than enthuse even the most jaded reader with the past. Most highly recommended' - Historical Novels Review 'Another wonderfully written, immensely moving and immaculately researched novel from an author who grows in stature with every book she writes' - LANCASHIRE EVENING POST 'Another example of how to write compelling historical fiction ... by the best novelist in this genre' DRIFFIELD LEADER