The Good Knight

Being a History buff of Danish/Irish ancestry you more than caught my interest. Not just well written but as factual as what has survived. Hard to believe that papers found would not have gained at least questions even curiosity. But to burn 🔥 them instead of gifting to acquire knowledge! Either way we will never know. Sadly many do not value knowledge. Thank you for bringing this story to life.

I am quite a fan of historical mysteries, especially when centuries in the past, British Isles as the setting, and filled with descriptive language and rich medieval characters. Case in point: Sarah Woodbury’s “The Good Knight” from her Gareth and Gwen Medieval Mysteries. It is 1143 Wales, and the arranged marriage between one king’s daughter to an allied royal is in question; the groom is murdered. Sir Gareth is asked to investigate by the victim’s brother, but circumstantial evidence points to him as the traitor, so Gwen, a woman from Gareth’s past, is entreated to help uncover the answers. The conspiracy is complex, and the Gareth & Gwen team brings up their past connection. Woodbury’s writing style includes a descriptive flair and engaging dialogue that illustrates well the medieval era, but it’s easy to read with court intrigue and multiple murders to solve. The cast of characters along with understanding the language may be daunting, but they are addressed at the beginning of the story as well as introduced well in context. I found the many dramatic elements from murders and kidnappings to political treachery and Danish invasions totally thrilling, the characters varied and entertaining with a strong female lead, and the final reveal was satisfying. Although I am not familiar with the historical truths, I don’t read this genre as non-fiction. Woodbury’s book had the feel of accuracy with events, lifestyle, and society distinctions associated with medieval times. I want more!

This is such a beautifully written novel and the start of a beautiful series. Having a husband and wife team working so well together was a truly fun read. I learned a lot about Welsh history and pronunciation. The narrators really bring the books to life!

Slow, too detailed of what people were thinking with over abundant explanations. Not one of the best I’ve read

Decent read. Research is evident in the writing. It should be self-explanatory, but this straight up says it’s medieval mystery and therefore focused primarily on the historical integration and political/court intrigue/mystery. I was, however, greatly disappointed that Gwen pretty much just ended up being a damsel.

Actually, the term Doctor of phesike was so widely used to refer to what we would now call a medical doctor in the medieval period it was even used by Chaucer. There were also doctors of the church (Augustine, Aquinas, etc). Doctor was most certainly a word used at this time. The only time someone uses armour not made for them in this book is when someone uses another person’s who is very similarly built. The character also complains that it still doesn’t fit right because it wasn’t made specifically for him. This author is so well versed in Welsh history she puts historical notes at the end of her books. I’m a historian. I HATE most historical fiction (don’t even get me started on the rubbish that is Outlander - it might as well be Brave Heart). This series is one of the exceptions. I also like that there is a strong female character and the men around her aren’t trying to hem her in or remind her of “her place” in society. The men encourage her to use her intelligence and believe she can hold her own.

At 109 pages in I gave up. This story dragged. Words like doctor were not around at that time and armor was made for each individual and not one size fits all. I guess I’ve been spoiled by other writers that actually research the era in which they’re setting their story.

A mystery woven into interesting historical fact and believable fiction. Add likable characters, intrigue, action, dead bodies, adventures, rescues, and a damsel who isn’t timid or weak. I enjoyed this well written novel and thankful I was not subject to undue sex scenes some authors use to cover up poor writing. Had my interest all the way through.

Historical, well crafted characters, interesting to the end.