A Place Beyond Courage

William Marshal, Book 1

By: Elizabeth Chadwick

Narrated by: Rosalyn Landor

Sometimes Keeping Your Honor Means Breaking Your Word

In England, the Middle Ages are a time for ambitious men to prosper. Before he becomes the father of William Marshal, John FitzGilbert is a man of honor and loyalty, sworn to royal service. When the old king dies, his successor rewards the handsome and ambitious John with castles and lands. But King Stephen has a tenuous hold on his reign over medieval England.

In these unstable times, John's loyalty to the British king comes at great cost. So, when jealous rivals at court seek to destroy John, he takes matters into his own hands. He backs a woman's claim to the crown, sacrifices his marriage, and eventually makes a final gamble that is perhaps one step too far.

Rich with detail, masterful in its storytelling, A Place Beyond Courage is historical fiction full of impossible choices and the real meaning of honor, perfect for fans of The Red Queen by Philippa Gregory and Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel.

An incredible prequel to the William Marshal series!

"The best writer of medieval fiction currently around."—Historical Novels Review

©2007 Elizabeth Chadwick (P)2024 Recorded Books

The King has Died

Interesting historical details with great insight into the interpersonal relationships and dynamics of court and cultural norms of Middle Ages in England. A bit lighter fare for me between some heavier reads, which I enjoyed.

Accuracy is obviously important to this (new to me) author. An insight into family dynamics and the various factors involved regarding the “death of kings” is always of interest to me, and I found this writing style an interesting perspective. A story about the great love of William Marshal’s parents worked well in this story. Given the tenuous nature of life in a country at war during those years, a strong relationship could be both beneficial and a weakness… to say the least. An exploration of them both was well done.

As someone who gravitates to different genres/authors depending upon the day, this was a lighter option that held my interest well for the most part. It’s generally evident which authors hold themselves accountable to accuracy in historical context. Though she took liberties in day to day interactions, the author used historical data as her guide.

Going into the next book focused on a young William Marshal, it will be interesting to see what the author has in store. Will the writer remain away from the battlefields and continue to focus on family and court dynamics? It will be interesting to find out.

novel & History together AND accurate!

Great "prequel" for reading the William Marshall books. Looking forward to reading the next 5 in sequence!

Loved the rich character building

This book started out slow and I almost gave up on it but it picked up the pace about a third of the way in and the characters grew in depth and interest.

Totally enjoyable!

It was a great story and the character development was amazing. So much so that I wanted John’s story to go on.
I actually choose many of my books by the reader Rosalyn Landor. No one does it better than she. Impeccable voice characterization.

Not Hilary Mantel

King Stephen and Empress Mathilda circa 1130. Borders on more romance novel. Some was interesting, I skipped through much in the latter part of the book. This is not the style of Hilary Mantel as described in the summary.
The narrator is very professional, but not my preference.. I found the baby cooing of the children excessive and grating. I won't be reading anymore of the series.