The King's Man

Elizabeth Kingston

Book 1 in the series:Welsh Blades

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In "The King's Man," Ranulf, the infamous King's assassin haunted by his past, flees to the Welsh wilderness where he meets Gwenllian, a healer and warrior. Despite their initial animosity, they find themselves on a slow-burn journey of forgiveness, love, and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of English vs Welsh politics. The book delves into themes of identity, love, betrayal, and redemption, portraying a romance that builds subtly and intensely between two unlikely allies who must navigate their conflicting loyalties amidst a turbulent historical setting.

Gwenllian, a plain yet strong-willed woman, and Ranulf, a complex and tormented hero, form a compelling bond that evolves from discord to mutual respect and admiration. The narrative weaves together elements of medieval history, intricate character development, intense emotional moments, and a richly detailed setting in Wales. The story unfolds with layers of depth and complexity, exploring themes of inner strength, redemption, and the transformative power of love amid a backdrop of political intrigue and personal turmoil.

Characters:

The characters exhibit depth and complexity, particularly Gwenllian's strength and independence juxtaposed with Ranulf's troubled past and the evolution of their relationship.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by its lyrical quality and depth, successfully engaging the reader's emotions while exploring complex themes.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot weaves a rich tapestry of identity and beauty through the interactions of a Welsh woman and an English knight, set against a backdrop of political intrigue and personal conflict.

Setting:

The setting immerses readers in a historical backdrop rich with cultural and political tensions between Wales and England.

Pacing:

The pacing is moderate, prioritizing character development and emotional depth over action, which some readers may find slowing the narrative.

When first he woke, he thought he must be roasting in the fires of Hell. Later he would know that it was a raging fever that burned him, and she would tell him it was a delirium that caused insensate ...

Notes:

The story revolves around Gwenllian and Ranulf, who develop a complex relationship marked by initial animosity.

Gwenllian is portrayed as a strong, warrior woman, while Ranulf is depicted as a handsome, skilled knight with a dark past.

The narrative explores themes of beauty and perception, particularly through Gwenllian's struggles with her self-image.

Ranulf is initially unkind, calling Gwenllian unattractive, but his view of her changes as he learns to appreciate her inner strength.

The book subverts traditional romantic tropes by focusing on the emotional and character development of both protagonists.

Gwenllian’s character is a blend of masculine and feminine traits, highlighting her as a multifaceted individual in a patriarchal society.

The book explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the moral complexities of war against the backdrop of Welsh history.

The hero's development is significant as he battles personal demons and evolves through his relationship with Gwenllian.

There are scenes that emphasize consensual intimacy, showing the couple's developing trust and emotional connection.

The historical context of the Welsh conflicts against English rule adds depth to the romance, enriching the characters' motivations.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include violence, explicit language, and themes surrounding betrayal and trauma.

Has Romance?

The romance is a central aspect of the story, with significant development and depth.

explicit steam level

From The Publisher:

Ranulf Ombrier's fame throughout 13th century England for his skill at swordplay is rivaled only by his notoriety as King Edward I's favorite killer. Ranulf's actions have gained him lands, title, and a lasting reputation as a hired butcher. But after years of doing his king's bidding, he begins to fear for his mortal soul and follows his conscience away from Edward, all the way to the wilds of Wales. Gwenllian of Ruardean, Welsh daughter of a powerful Marcher lord, has every reason to leave Ranulf for dead when one of her men nearly kills him. As a girl she was married by proxy to a man Ranulf murdered, only to become a widow before she ever met her groom. In the years since, she has shunned the life of a lady, instead studying warfare and combat at her mother's behest. But she has also studied healing and this, with her sense of duty to knightly virtues, leads her to tend to Ranulf's wounds. Saving her enemy's life comes with consequences, and Gwenllian and Ranulf are soon caught up in dangerous intrigue. Forced together by political machinations, they discover a kinship of spirit and a surprising, intense desire. But even hard-won love cannot thrive when loyalties are divided and the winds of rebellion sweep the land.

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