Everlasting by Kathleen E Woodiwiss: A Medieval Romance with a Twist
Everlasting by Kathleen E Woodiwiss: A Historical Romance Review
If you are looking for a historical romance that will transport you to medieval England and Scotland, you might want to check out Everlasting by Kathleen E Woodiwiss. This is the last novel by the author who is widely regarded as the pioneer of the genre, and it showcases her talent for creating captivating characters, engaging plots, and rich historical settings. In this article, we will review Everlasting and explore its main features, themes, and appeal.
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Introduction
Everlasting is a historical romance novel that tells the story of Abrielle, a young woman who is forced to marry a cruel and repulsive squire after her stepfather loses his title and fortune. Abrielle's only hope is Raven Seabern, a handsome and kind Scottish warrior who falls in love with her at first sight. But Raven has his own secrets and enemies, and their love will be tested by many dangers and betrayals.
The novel is set in England and Scotland in the late 11th century, during the reign of William the Conqueror. Woodiwiss draws on historical events and figures, such as the Battle of Hastings, the Norman invasion, and King Malcolm III of Scotland, to create a vivid backdrop for her story. She also incorporates details of medieval life, culture, customs, and costumes, making Everlasting a rich and immersive read.
Plot summary
The novel begins with Abrielle's arrival in London with her mother and stepfather. They hope to secure a good marriage for Abrielle, who is renowned for her beauty, intelligence, and grace. However, their plans are ruined when Abrielle's stepfather is denied his rightful title as Earl of Langley by King William, who gives it to his nephew instead. Without land or money, Abrielle's family is left in disgrace and debt.
The only man who offers to marry Abrielle is Desmond de Marlé, a squire who is notorious for his cruelty, greed, and ugliness. Abrielle despises him, but she feels obliged to accept his proposal to save her family from ruin. However, on the day of her betrothal, she meets Raven Seabern, a mysterious and handsome stranger who saves her from a mob of angry peasants. Raven is instantly smitten with Abrielle, and he vows to win her heart and free her from Desmond.
Raven reveals that he is actually a Scottish lord who has come to England to spy on King William's movements. He also tells Abrielle that he has a special gift: he can see glimpses of the future in his dreams. He has seen that Abrielle is his destined mate, and that they will face many perils together. He convinces Abrielle to elope with him, but their escape is thwarted by Desmond's men. Raven is captured and tortured, while Abrielle is forced to marry Desmond.
Abrielle suffers greatly under Desmond's abuse, but she never gives up hope that Raven will rescue her. Meanwhile, Raven manages to escape from his captors and joins forces with King Malcolm of Scotland, who is preparing to invade England. Raven leads a daring raid to free Abrielle from Desmond's castle, and they flee to Scotland. There, they finally consummate their love and get married.
However, their happiness is short-lived, as they are still in danger from Desmond, who has sworn to kill them both. They also have to deal with the hostility of some of Raven's clan members, who do not trust Abrielle as an Englishwoman. Moreover, Raven's gift of foresight becomes a curse, as he sees visions of death and destruction for himself and his loved ones. He tries to change the course of fate, but he soon realizes that some things are inevitable.
The novel ends with a climactic battle between the Scots and the English, in which Raven and Abrielle prove their courage and loyalty. They survive the battle, but they are separated by a raging river. Abrielle thinks that Raven is dead, and she is about to drown herself when he appears and saves her. They are reunited and rejoice in their everlasting love.
Analysis
Everlasting is a novel that explores the themes of love, honor, and loyalty in the context of medieval warfare and politics. Woodiwiss portrays the relationship between Abrielle and Raven as a true and noble love that transcends social barriers, cultural differences, and personal hardships. They are loyal to each other, even when they are apart or in danger. They also honor their respective families, friends, and countries, even when they are in conflict with each other.
Woodiwiss also uses historical details and imagery to enhance her story and create a sense of realism and authenticity. She describes the settings, costumes, weapons, and customs of medieval England and Scotland with accuracy and detail. She also incorporates historical events and figures into her plot, such as the Norman invasion, the Battle of Hastings, King William the Conqueror, King Malcolm III of Scotland, and Queen Margaret of Scotland. She shows how these events affect the lives and choices of her characters, and how they shape the history of both countries.
Conclusion
Everlasting is a historical romance novel that offers a captivating and immersive read for fans of the genre. It has a strong and likable heroine, a handsome and heroic hero, a villainous and despicable villain, a thrilling and suspenseful plot, and a rich and vivid historical setting. It also has a satisfying and romantic ending that celebrates the power of love over fate.
The novel is not without its flaws, however. Some readers might find it too long, too predictable, or too melodramatic. Some might also find some of the historical details inaccurate or anachronistic. Moreover, some might be offended by some of the scenes of violence, abuse, or sex that occur in the novel.
Nevertheless, Everlasting is a novel that showcases Woodiwiss's talent as a historical romance writer. It is also her last novel before her death in 2007, making it a fitting tribute to her legacy. It is a novel that will appeal to readers who enjoy historical romances with strong characters, engaging plots, and rich settings.
FAQs
Where can I buy Everlasting by Kathleen E Woodiwiss?
You can buy Everlasting by Kathleen E Woodiwiss from various online platforms, such as Amazon Kindle Store, Rakuten Kobo, or Barnes & Noble Nook Store. You can also buy it from your local bookstore or library.
Is Everlasting a standalone novel or part of a series?
Everlasting is a standalone novel that does not belong to any series. However, Woodiwiss has written several other historical romances set in different periods and locations, such as The Flame and the Flower, The Wolf and the Dove, A Rose in Winter, The Reluctant Suitor, etc.
When was Everlasting published and what was the reception?
romance and its historical accuracy, while others criticized it for its length, its predictability, or its melodrama. Some also noted that it was not as good as her earlier works, such as The Flame and the Flower or The Wolf and the Dove. However, most agreed that it was a fitting farewell to a legendary author who had influenced generations of romance writers and readers.
Did Woodiwiss write any other books set in medieval England?
Yes, Woodiwiss wrote several other books set in medieval England, such as The Wolf and the Dove, Come Love a Stranger, So Worthy My Love, and The Elusive Flame. These books feature different characters and plots, but they all share the same theme of love overcoming adversity in a turbulent historical period.
What are some similar books to Everlasting by other authors?
If you enjoyed Everlasting by Kathleen E Woodiwiss, you might also like some of these books by other authors:
The Secret by Julie Garwood: A historical romance set in medieval Scotland, featuring a spirited English lady and a fierce Scottish laird who fall in love despite their clans' feud.
The Bride by Julie Garwood: A historical romance set in medieval Scotland, featuring a feisty English bride and a powerful Scottish warrior who are forced to marry by King Henry II.
The Prize by Julie Garwood: A historical romance set in medieval England, featuring a Norman conqueror and a Saxon beauty who are enemies by birth but lovers by destiny.
A Kingdom of Dreams by Judith McNaught: A historical romance set in medieval England and Scotland, featuring a rebellious Scottish princess and a ruthless English lord who are enemies by war but soulmates by love.
The Wedding by Julie Garwood: A historical romance set in medieval Scotland, featuring a beautiful English lady and a handsome Scottish warrior who are married by proxy but fall in love in person.
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