In the small town of Abbotsford there is unrest, building on the Abbey church is halted, funds and low and taxes are high. Stephen Warde, the leader of the garrison is balancing his desire for his wife with plotting to overthrow a weak and ineffective king. His wife, Elena, wants her old estate back and despises Stephen. Then fortune appears to favour the Abbey, a golden statue is found, surely this is the end to all concerns.
There is a lot to like about this book. The setting is great, at the point where Isabella is in France with her young son and lover, Mortimer, plotting to overthrow Edward II. Rather than set this book amongst nobles and the court, it looks at the effects on the ordinary people. So far, so good. However it really dragged and seemed far longer than it was. The plot has gaping holes in it and the romance is unconvincing. The book could have been far better with some serious editing! ( )

The story is taking place in Abbotsford, England during King Edward II rules.

Stephen Warde returns to Abbottsford after 8 years from the battle where he lost his father. He was certain now that he doesn’t want to serve by the side of King Edward II who run away from battle leaving his men to die. In Abbotsford, Stephen faces corruption and stands against political issues to save his homeland while supporting his queen. However, his most important objective is to deliver Shilton back to his wife. Elena and her family were forced to leave Shilton. She, together with her brother Godfrey, wants Shilton back but Godfrey is not making it easy. He involves himself in dangerous business which can cause problems for both Stephen and Elena. Stephen has to persuade Elena to trust him which means she will have to take his side instead of her brother's.

I'm not sure how many books set up in Medieval time I've read but surely not a lot. I was intrigued and happy to pick this book up. I really enjoyed this story following two main characters who in different way stole my heart. The author does a good job of developing a number of other characters, describing their involvement in corruption and showing others as brave people supporting their queen to regain her power.

What a great historical fiction book by debut author. ( )