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READERS' MAIL AND REVIEWS OF MY WORK Click here to see Readers' Mail THE CONQUEST The pleasure of Chadwick’s writing is in the detail. She takes tremendous care with her facts, and gives a genuine period flavour. You can feel the rub of coarse cloth against your skin, smell the hot metal smells of the forge. But she also contrives a vigorous plot, with likeable characters and an engaging love story. To my mind she is the best of the medievalists currently writing. Anyone who enjoys Sharon Penman or Anya Seton should definitely give her a try. Richard Lee. Founder of the Historical Novel Society THE CHAMPION - (SHORTLISTED FOR THE PARKER PEN AWARD) What turns Elizabeth Chadwick’s novel into a champion of a book is the contrasting sub-plots that brilliantly intertwine into a fantastic tale. THE CHAMPION is historical fiction at its delightful best. Harriet Klausner: internet reviewer I liked this novel very much. I can recommend it to anyone who enjoys a well crafted novel and an exciting story. Eileen Stafford: The Historical Novel Review Having long been a fan of the historical novels of Anya Seton I had despaired of ever finding a successor. However Elizabeth Chadwick is more than equal to the task as this tale of life in the twelfth and thirteenth century amply illustrates. A member of Regia Anglorum, an early Medieval re-enactment society with the emphasis on accurately recreating the past, she is obviously well versed in the period – the time of Richard I and King John not always being a glamorous one – and brings it to life with easy style. Life around the tournament in the Middle Ages and the character of Prince John are just two elements which make for a fascinating read. Sarah Ford, Bournemouth Daily Echo A rousing sample of English Medieval life, replete with violence, lust, royal schemes and religious scandal… Characters realistically brush up against such notable figures as the Richard the Lionhearted, King John and the Archbishop of Canterbury… an unusually imaginative depiction of the sometimes seamy circumstances behind the conventions of the chivalric romance. Publishers Weekly Chadwick delivers a riveting account of Medieval life, from the thrill of the joust to the bedrooms of the nobility, fashioning an engaging historical that should not be missed. Booklist THE LOVE KNOT The latest gem from undoubtedly one of the best current writers of Medieval based fiction takes us to England in the 1140’s. The country is torn apart by the bloody civil war between Stephen and Mathilda. As the nobility struggle for political power so the ordinary people become vulnerable to the depredations of vicious mercenaries intent on plunder, rape and personal gain. Oliver Pascal, a landless knight returning to England after a long pilgrimage, finds himself a witness to the aftermath of such a savage mercenary raid. There are two survivors, Richard, an illegitimate son of the prolific Henry I, and his nurse, Catrin, a young widow. Pascal takes them to the safety of Bristol where Catrin becomes apprentice to the midwife and herbalist, Ethel, an old dependent of the Pascal family. Oliver has his own reasons for being suspicious of such womens’ wisecraft but his concerns give way to deep affection; an affection returned by Catrin. But life is never that simple, especially in a country riven by war and the road to peace is littered with personal tragedy, violence and an unexpected shock from the past. To say more would be to ruin the plot of this excellently crafted novel. The story starts with a bang and maintains an exciting, heady pace until the very last page. The characters are very real, their physical and emotional lives leaping from the page. The historical background is, as always, impeccable and there is no avoidance of the violent nature of twelfth century life and the far more intimate nature of people’s relationship with death. Elizabeth Chadwick is a highly disciplined and hugely talented story teller – her novels are not only highly readable but also act almost as a textbook for wannabee historical novelists. High recommended. The Historical Novel Review: February 1999 Another top notch historical set in 12th century England with the sword proving much mightier than the pen in a time of changing loyalties. Great characterisation and lots of historical colour Bolton Evening News Love, treachery, misunderstanding and Medieval machinations make this a fun fiction packed with historical detail Teeside Evening Gazette The author has given a jolly good historical yarn which involves pilgrimage, villages raided by mercenaries, an illegitimate royal offspring (history is littered with them) and a proud young widow. A good read if you love historical romance but don’t want it too soppy. Dereham and Fakenham Times ‘One of Elizabeth’s Chadwick’s strengths is her stunning grasp of historical detail…her characters are beguiling, and the story intriguing and very enjoyable.’ Barbara Erskine, author of Lady of Hay This author is an outstanding medievalist and displays a stunning grasp of historical detail Bridlington Gazette A historical novel set in the 12th century from a Betty Trask winner (THE WILD HUNT) and an RNA shortlisted author (THE CHAMPION). I believe this genre is due for a revival, and she is good. The Bookseller Realistic, romantic and engrossing, this story deftly combines love and war...to appeal to readers of historical romance and historical fiction alike Literary Journal Ripe with intrigue, colourful folklore, and lusty romance...superb reading! Affaire de Coeur THE MARSH KING'S DAUGHTER The narrative of the Marsh King's Daughter by Elizabeth Chadwick unfolds at a rapid pace. Set in the East of England in the early years of the 13th century, it is a historical novel which pays great attention to detail. Life is tough in the reign of King John and his successor the young Henry III. Wool merchants compete ruthlessly for wealth and power - and some have no conscience about the methods they used to achieve it. As the story unfolds the spirited heroine, Miriel, is confined by an antagonistic stepfather to a convent. With a little historical fact and a lot of well-researched and interesting detail about daily life in the period, the story is woven around violent passions. If you like historical novels, romance, and a few facts thrown in, such as the loss of King John's treasure and the summary execution of the Channel Island pirate Eustace the Monk, then this book is for you. Colchester Evening Gazette The Marsh King's Daughter is an entertaining medieval romance that highlights the abuse of power that dictates much of the early thirteenth century noble lifestyle. Miriel is a brave woman, but her gender leaves her a victim as men make decisions that she dislikes. Nicholas is also impotent to help because he too is a casualty of the monarchy. Fans who enjoy an insider's look at a bygone era will gain immense pleasure from Elizabeth Chadwick's wonderful historical romance. Harriet Klausner, Reader to Reader Beautifully written with marvelously drawn characters and fascinating details that bring the late Medieval period wonderfully to life. The growing emotional tensions and plot complications make the book a compulsive reading experience. Roberta Gellis LORDS OF THE WHITE CASTLE Elizabeth Chadwick has managed once again to weave a compelling story of intrigue and changing fortunes to produce a tale that makes for utterly compulsive reading. Her best yet. Highly recommended. Marilyn Sherlock The Historical Novel Society Review GENERAL REVIEWS Elizabeth Chadwick’s novels come as a refreshing breath of air. Her writing is strong, intelligent and witty, her leading characters people the reader can identify with readily despite the vastly different times they lived in. Belfast Telegraph An author who makes history come gloriously alive The Times The author manages to blend authentic period detail with a modern convention for emotional drama Elizabeth Buchan, Mail on Sunday Stunning stuff. This is what historical novels are about. Dr Colin Groves, Lecturer in history, Nottingham University The pleasure of Chadwick’s writing is in the detail. She takes tremendous care with her facts, and gives a genuine period flavour. You can feel the rub of coarse cloth against your skin, smell the hot metal smells of the forge. But she also contrives a vigorous plot, with likeable characters and an engaging love story. To my mind she is the best of the medievalists currently writing. Anyone who enjoys Sharon Penman or Anya Seton should definitely give her a try. Richard Lee. Founder of the Historical Novel Society Here are excerpts from some of the e-mails I have received about my novels. I've edited them down slightly and removed the writers' names to preserve anonymity. It's always a delight to receive feedback from readers and I do my best to answer everyone…although sometimes it can take a while if I'm busy. * * * I just wanted to comgratulate you on being the first author to ever, EVER make me cry. I have read 100s, possibly 1000s of books over the years but only "Lords of the White Castle" has ever managed to evoke a tear. (it was the line "Maude, stay with me", that did it!). Not even "Bambi" has managed this, so well done girl.' I was pleasantly surprised to stumble across the homepage of one of my favourite authors and due to the wonders of the internet, have a chance to say how much I and all the members of my club have enjoyed your books. As the only jousting group in Australia we were particularly pleased with 'The Champion'. In fact I just about worn it out from constant rereading, time to head out and buy another copy. You seemed to capture the period and especially the period details that we all had equipment made just so we could take part in our own "William Marshal" type tournaments, and most enjoyable they are, a relaxing way to have some fun after the heavier and more restrictive late 14thC. that we usually do, though there is quite no feeling on Earth as wearing full late 14thC. harness and thundering down the lists at your opponent. 'I get so engrossed in your stories that the house could burn down around me and I probably wouldn't notice and my husband says there's no point talking to me as I am oblivious to conversation!!' 'I felt I just had to send my appreciation for such a wonderful read. The cobwebs around the house are testament to the fact that once I picked up the book I could not put it down. Thank you so much for putting the characters and their lives into my imagination.' 'As a medieval history nut it was very refreshing to discover stories that you could almost smell, never mind imagine. I greatly admire your eye for detail, not just of material things but always feel I am able to really tune in with the characters emotions.' 'Hi, I just wanted to write to tell you how much I enjoyed reading your novel "The Conquest". It captured the feel of the Middle Ages (my favourite era!) really well, without becoming too bogged down with detail. The characters were so believable and it was a great story to be immersed in. I was sad when I finished it, nothing left to look forward to! I have just finished reading The Love Knot. I have to tell you how much I enjoyed it. I have been telling my 13yr. old daughter all about it as I read!! Oliver and Catrin are such wonderful characters.' I especially enjoy the historical atmosphere that you create with infinite detail. We all know that living in those times was difficult. You are one of the few authors who give the reader a feel for how difficult it really was. I thank you for that. Moreover I have truly appreciated your willingness to address the moral issues of the day, especially those concerning theology, heresy, life and death in childbirth, adultery, child brides etc. It's good to know that we are not the first people to deal with the grays of black and white moral questions. 'I have just finished reading your newest novel 'Lords of the white castle'. It was absolutely first class, I couldn't put it down, it's a good job I've had a week off work! 'I discovered one of your books 'The Love Knot' during a camping holiday, Christmas '99. Since that time, myself and a group of friends have made it a mission to find and purchase your books. To say that we enjoy reading them is such an understatement.' 'Do hurry up and write another book please in time for next autumn, it passes the winter nights!' I'd just like to say I recently read 'Lords of the White Castle' and I thought it was excellent. As a history degree student it was refreshing to have my imagination captured so completely, as sometimes amidst essays and exams the joy of history can be too easily forgotten.' 'What fun you must have re-enacting - it explains why your reader feels so immersed in the scenes, etc. I just read The Conquest, and I loved it. I will no doubt find your other books and devour them too..' 'Thank you very much for your novels - the sort I find I can't put down, and want to read again and again. And I've just visited your website for the first time. That is very interesting too. You have given me many hours of pleasure.' 'I live in the United States and eagerly wait your new novels. Please continue to write as your books are the only way I can timetravel to the medievel era that I love so much.Thank you for your work and effort.' 'You are the best author I have come across so far, your books enthral me and I was so disappointed to get to the end of Marsh Kings daughter and find I had nothing else left to read,' 'Thank you for your entertaining writing, it is great to open a new novel and know you are in for such a brilliant read.' 'I just wanted to say that you are indeed a spectacular storyteller. If you stopped writing books, it would be a serious crime. I wanted to tell you that you are much appreciated' 'I've just received my copy of this long-awaited book. I feel like I've had it ordered for ever and of course it does not disappoint. I'm desperate to "gobble it down" as my mother would say but also want to make it last as long as possible - although the last page always comes along. The characters are always wonderful people I can really care about who seem as real as my own family and the history comes alive' 'I have just finished Lords of the White Castle and I have to agree with The Times reviewer who described you as 'An author who makes history come gloriously alive'. For the past two weeks I have been immersed in the history of the borderlands and the story of Fulke and Maude, thank you!' 'We both like historical novels, and are very glad to find a new name having read many others including Anya Seaton, Barbara Erskine, Sharon Penman etc. We like your books because they go along at a good pace and include a lot of history, romance and are not dull. Please hurry up and finish your new book.' 'I have just finished reading Lords of the White Castle and found it absolutly fabulous I enjoyed every bit and knowing that the people and places are real made it all the more enthralling.' 'I'm so glad I found you. Medievals' are my favorites and it is difficult to find an author who is truly knowledgeable about the period.' 'I have just finished reading "Lords of the White Castle" and wanted to write to you to say how much I have enjoyed it. I first came across your books last Christmas, when I bought a copy of "The Conquest" for my girlfriend. She, who is no bookworm (!), promptly sat down and I did not hear a word from her until she had finished it! I thought I had better find out what the fuss was about, so I read it too, and thoroughly enjoyed it. I am very glad that I did read it, for I would never normally have read something classed as historical romance (I make no excuses: call it male prejudice!!). You bring history to life unlike any other historical author I have ever read: the characters are totally 3D, "knowable" and believable, the action rips along, and all underpinned with a rich tapestry of historical detail. "Lords" is a great example of this: you wind fact and fiction together so well to create a truly compelling true story. I cannot empasise enough how much I have enjoyed reading those books of yours that I have read so far.' 'I have just finished reading your latest book, Lords of the White Castle and I must write and tell you that I have neglected many household chores whilst doing so.' 'At the risk of sounding like a gushing fan, I am writing to say that I just finished Lords of the White Castle and, like everything else of yours I have read, enjoyed it very much. I discovered your work about three years ago and, since that time, have hunted down and read everything (I think) that you have written. Since that time, you have become one of my favourite authors and look forward to each new novel. Thanks very much for many very pleasant hours of very entertaining reading.' I just finished reading this book (Lords Of The White Castle) and was gripped from start to finish .very bad work wise but brilliant story telling. I have learned more about medieval England from books like these than I ever did at school.' 'I discovered your book, The Champion, while traveling through Heathrow. It is a fascinating read and I read 100 pages in the first go! Although I love historical fiction, when I find that a novel just doesn't ring true I can't finish it. With The Champion, I can't put it down.' I have just read the above book Lords of the White Castle about the lives of Fulke and Maude.I have to say it has become one of my most favourite books and not doubt I will re read it many more times and enjoy it every time. I knew them all, I was there, I could see it as clearly as if I was there.' I have just finished reading your book "The Winter Mantle" and felt compelled to let you know it was one of the best books I ever read.' 'A week ago I picked up "Lords of the White Castle", and as I flipped to the back I noticed your e-mail address, I was ecstatic, that now I have the opportunity to tell you what your novels have meant to me. Elizabeth I hated reading but I saw the pleasure that my boy-friend got out of it and thought that I would give it a try, you got me from the first page in "The Conquest" and ever since then I have read every book of your that I could find. I cant pick a favourite because every book you write is better than the next, I fall so in love with the characters and have often missed the tram home or to work cos I'm so immersed and gradually I drift into the 11th or 12th Century and there I am standing with Miriel and Nicholas or Rolf and Ailith. I just wanted to say the hugest Thank- You. I love the way your characters create love, the passion and the intensity, the detail about their lifestyle and the way people live their lives back in those days. Every thing comes alive for me. I can proudly say that you are my favourite Author, I can not wait for your next book to be released.' I have just spent two very enjoyable weeks journeying through Great Britain in the early years of the 2nd millenium as I read Lords of the White Castle. What a fantastic book! I have been enthralled since Page 1 I thought that Barbara Erskine's books from this period were my favourites but you are now giving her a serious run for her money!!!! The really wonderful thing is that I have The Marsh King's Daughter right here beside me, to start reading as soon as i go to bed tonight. Many thanks for a great book - and keep up the good work. Your descriptions of life in the 12th century are so interesting and well-written - just wonderful. I am a big fan of medieval novels and have read quite a few but this one (Lords of the White Castle) really captured my imagination. So much so that since returning home I have been surfing the net to find out more info about King John, the castles and how people looked and lived around that time. Thank you for a fabulous read.' 'Thank you for many hours of fascinating reading. Your research is outstanding and your reinactment sound like great fun!! In my estimation you rate with my other favorite author, Sharon K. Penman. I have just finished reading your book, Lords of the White Castle. It took me only two days to read because I couldn't put it down!! This has not happened to me for a long time as far as reading books is concerned. It was an excellent read, thank you for all your hard work in researching this book.' 'I have just finished reading your book "Lords of the White Castle" and I just wanted to say that it was a brilliant read. I was completely gripped and just could not put the book down. You made history come alive and I felt as if I was really there along with the characters in the book.' |