The Forest and the Flames

By: G. Lawrence

Narrated by: Marnye Young

Length: 17 hrs and 45 mins

Publisher's Summary

Autumn, 1066: The Battle of Hastings is done. The struggle for England begins.

Matilda, Lady of Flanders, Duchess of Normandy, rules as Regent of Normandy for her husband, Duke William. William has won the Battle of Hastings, but Saxon England does not wish to surrender to him as King. As William sets England to flame, Matilda waits in Normandy for the time to come when she can claim her crown. 

Through bloodshed, battle, and struggle will England be won, but even as Matilda rejoices for her new power, a prophecy is spoken, linking the fates of her children to the wailing voices and horrific images in dreams which come to haunt her. Matilda comes to understand that God is watching, and is not pleased with what he sees. 

As Matilda battles to save her children, she finds she must stand against her own husband, in order to protect the lives, and immortal souls, of her sons and daughters. Through heartache, discord, battle, rebellion, and slaughter, the fate of England, and the future of the house of Normandy, will be decided.

Contains mature themes.

©2017 Gemma Lawrence (P)2018 Tantor

Another exceptionally written historical fiction

Author Gemma Lawrence gives us the second of two books about William the Conqueror’s wife: Mathilda. Having read the first installment, I was looking forward to this one, and author didn’t disappoint.

It’s another captivating historical fiction that will easily captivate the reader’s attention from the first page to the last. The author brings to life a gripping story of power, ambition and brutality in a very vivid and convincing way. In addition, the characters are drawn with great credibility and conviction. It’s a moderately fast-paced novel that will keep you engaged from the first page to the last.

The book description gives a sneak preview: ‘Autumn, 1066: The Battle of Hastings is done. The struggle for England begins…

Matilda, Lady of Flanders, Duchess of Normandy, rules as Regent of Normandy for her husband, Duke William. William has won the Battle of Hastings, but Saxon England does not wish to surrender to him as King. As William sets England to flame, Matilda waits in Normandy for the time to come when she can claim her crown.

Through bloodshed, battle, and struggle will England be won, but even as Matilda rejoices for her new power, a prophecy is spoken, linking the fates of her children to the wailing voices and horrific images in dreams which come to haunt her. Matilda comes to understand that God is watching and is not pleased with what he sees.

As Matilda battles to save her children, she finds she must stand against her own husband, in order to protect the lives, and immortal souls, of her sons and daughters. Through heartache, discord, battle, rebellion, and slaughter, the fate of England, and the future of the house of Normandy, will be decided…’

Exemplary and praiseworthy, this work had me engrossed from the beginning. It’s an impassioned historical fiction interwoven with true-life history. The story flowed from scene to scene with ease, and the author shows exceptional ability when it comes to storytelling. There are plenty of intense moments in this page turner that will take the reader on a truly captivating and spellbinding journey.

It’s one of those books that comes along occasionally that makes you want to read it non-stop until you get to the end. Although this is a somewhat ‘meaty’ read, it’s unlikely that it could be finished in one or two sittings. Nevertheless, for those looking for an interesting, three-dimensional and stimulating read, this would be a rare find. I’m giving nothing further away here. And this, I hope, will only add to the mystery and enjoyment for the reader.

If this book is anything to go by, I’ll certainly be looking forward to reading more from Gemma Lawrence in the future. It also has a distinctly cinematic feel to it and I could easily see it being adapted for the Silver Screen. A well-deserved five stars from me.

Special mention also to Marnye Young for her excellent narration. An exceptionally talented lady with a gifted voice for storytelling.

4 of 4 people found this review helpful

Matilda, Duchess,Queen all around amazing book's

loved these two book's if your looking for Matilda's story these are the book's to read spectacular book's could not put either one down

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

masterpiece

amazing work, female counterpart of bernard cornwell. loved every word and would highly recommend to anyone who loves historical fiction!

Wonderful

This book was amazing. My 27th great grandmother was an amazing women. This book makes me long to meet her. Wonderfully written. I was brought to tears. Thank you G Lawerence for bringing Matilda to life.

Won't Disappoint

Excellent. Please write more. Couldn't put the book down. I felt as if I was standing right there.