Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite

Lady of Lincoln by Rachel Elwiss Joyce is a compelling historical novel set in 12th-century England that highlights the exploits of one brave woman at a time when women were just chattels to be bargained off in advantageous marriages. Nicola is the daughter of the Constable of Lincoln, a man of considerable wealth and power. With no sons to inherit, her father must arrange a suitable marriage for her that will ensure the continuation of the de la Haye legacy in Lincoln. After her father’s unexpected death, she disobeys his wishes and King Henry II’s blessing and instead of marrying her chosen husband, Gerard de Camville, she chooses to marry a penniless knight, William FitzErneis. Saddled with massive debt after being heavily fined by King Henry for her unsanctioned marriage and betrayed by her husband, Nicola must fight to keep her villagers fed and the de la Haye name at the forefront of English history, against an array of forces determined to bend her to their will.

Lady of Lincoln is a towering, epic saga that sweeps through 12th-century England and France with power, action, love, and honor. Rachel Elwiss Joyce has taken the historical figure of Nicola de la Haye, whose amazing and heroic exploits had been consigned to the back pages of historical record by men, and given them life, flesh, blood, and rich emotions. Because this story is based on real events and the author’s research is so detailed, this is more than a historical novel. It is also educational in showing readers the era, not just from the perspectives of the wealthy and the nobility, but also the humble peasant. This combination of historical record and social commentary marks this book as one of the greats in this genre. Nicola is deeply inspiring, innately courageous, and incredibly compassionate. What I loved was that the author wasn’t afraid to imbue her also with a sense of naivety and innocence, especially as it pertained to men, love, and marriage. I particularly enjoyed the romance scenes that were equal parts steamy and humorous, if only for Nicola’s insistence that her needs must be met, as well as her husband’s. As with any novel centered around royalty, there are wonderful insights into the infighting, backstabbing, and cruel behavior of the ruling class, but there is balance, with some nobles who genuinely believed it was their role to care for society beneath them. The story is action-packed with no shortage of good, old-fashioned hand-to-hand combat and gore for the adrenaline junkie, but it is balanced by the underlying scenes of family and community. The overarching theme of honor resonates through every page. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to the sequel, Lady of the Castle. I highly recommend this book.

https://readersfavorite.com/book-review/lady-of-lincoln 

The Coffee Pot Book Club

Lady of Lincoln is a sweeping medieval historical fiction novel inspired by the true story of Nicola de la Haye, England’s forgotten heroine and the woman who saved a nation.

Set amid rebellion, betrayal, and courage, this richly-researched debut brings twelfth-century Lincoln Castle and the Angevin world vividly to life.

A true story. A forgotten heroine. In a time when women were told to stay silent, could she become the saviour her people need?

12th-century England. Nicola de la Haye wants to do her duty. But though she’s taught a female cannot lead alone, the young noblewoman bristles at the marriage her father has arranged to secure her inheritance. And when an unexpected death leaves her unguided, the impetuous girl shuns the king’s blessing and weds a handsome-but-landless knight.

Harshly fined by Henry II for her unsanctioned union, Nicola struggles to salvage her estates while dealing with devastating betrayals from her husband… and his choice to join rebels in a brewing civil war. Yet after averting a tragedy and gaining the castle garrison’s respect, she still must face the might of powerful men determined to crush her under their will.

Can she survive love, threats, and violent ambition to prove she’s worthy of authority?

In this carefully researched and vividly human series debut, Rachel Elwiss Joyce showcases the complex themes of honour, responsibility, and freedom in the story of a remarkable heroine who men tried to erase from history. And as readers dive into a world defined by violence and turmoil, they’ll be stunned by this courageous young woman’s journey toward greatness.

Lady of Lincoln is the gritty first book in the Nicola de la Haye Series historical fiction saga. If you like richly textured female heroes, courtly drama, and fast-paced intrigue, then you’ll adore Rachel Elwiss Joyce’s gripping true-life tale.

She raised her chin. She was Nicola de la Haye, Baroness of Brattleby, King’s Constable of Lincoln Castle: the woman she was destined to be. Whatever God had in store for her—today, or in the years to come—she would face it.

If a man could do it, so could she.

Nicola de la Haye is a spirited young woman who dreams of a love-filled marriage, one that transcends mere obligation or familial pressure. Her father, deeply entrenched in the traditions of their noble lineage, insists that she should accept the courtship of Gerard de Camville, a man of considerable wealth and influence. However, Nicola's heart belongs to another — the charming William FitzErneis. She wants a life filled with passion and genuine affection, rather than the cold comfort of an arranged union.

Caught between her father's expectations and her own desires, Nicola is determined to follow her heart, but she did not expect the great cost that loving William FitzErneis would demand.

"Lady of Lincoln," authored by Rachel Elwiss Joyce, is a profoundly moving debut novel that weaves a tale of heartbreak and resilience.

Joyce’s portrayal of Nicola de la Haye is strikingly vivid and captivating, skilfully bringing to life the remarkable story of a woman whose legacy has been overshadowed by her male counterparts. Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous late 12th and early 13th centuries, this story not only illuminates Nicola's extraordinary life but also sheds light on the broader societal attitudes toward women during this period.

As a spirited fourteen-year-old, Nicola does not conform to the expectations traditionally placed upon her gender. Instead of pursuing embroidery or courtly etiquette, she harbours a fierce desire to master the art of combat, especially with the bow. Her youthful imagination brims with grand visions of romance and chivalry, yet as she matures, she realises the mistakes of losing her heart to the first beautiful man who captures her eye. Marrying for love, rather than accepting the man her father has chosen, has dire consequences, not only for herself but also for her vassals and villeins. The romantic notions of girlhood give way very quickly to a steadfast commitment to safeguarding her ancestral lands. With an indomitable spirit, Nicola tackles the complexities of leadership, driven by a profound sense of duty to protect not only her territories but also the well-being of all those who depend on her strength and resolve. Throughout her journey, she embodies a remarkable duality: the dreams and aspirations of a youthful girl intertwined with the unyielding determination of a capable leader. Her character, rich with depth and nuance, emerges as a compelling heroine worthy of admiration, inspiring readers to recognise the often-overlooked contributions of women throughout history.

William FitzErneis is a captivating and charming figure, renowned for his striking good looks and his effortless ability to enchant the ladies. However, beneath his magnetic exterior lies a man driven by desperation; he must secure a marriage with a wealthy heiress, not only to liberate himself from the oppressive grasp of his tyrannical brother but also to alleviate the burden of his substantial debts. At first glance, FitzErneis can easily be cast as the unlikable villain; he presents himself as a suave charmer, masking his true intentions. He skilfully deceives Nicola, and his mismanagement of her finances leads to a cascade of hardships, not only for Nicola herself but also for the various families who depend on his erratic leadership and poor decisions. Constantly searching for innovative ways to bolster his dwindling income, William often drags Nicola into his dubious schemes, such as befriending Rosamund Clifford, the notorious mistress of King Henry II, in hopes of gaining favour and financial advantage through her connections. Yet, as the narrative unfolds, the layers of FitzErneis’ character begin to reveal themselves. Despite his financial irresponsibility and his sordid entanglements, he and Nicola discover a genuine affection for one another. This evolving relationship adds depth to his character, making him increasingly complex and not as easily dismissible as he was at the outset of the tale. As the story progresses, readers witness a transformation in their perceptions, blurring the lines between villainy and redemption.

Gerard de Camville is depicted as a man of great honour and integrity, earning the respect of Nicola's father, who views him as a worthy suitor. He is seen as a reliable protector, not only for Nicola if he were to marry her but also for the entire estate and its inhabitants, all of whom depend on his stewardship. In a world where allegiances shift like sand, Gerard stands out as a beacon of stability, embodying gentleness and kindness in all his actions. His unwavering determination to capture Nicola's heart is clearly reflected in his attentive demeanour. He pays close attention to the subtle nuances of her character, noting her deep appreciation for nature—she thrives in the vibrant expanse of the great outdoors rather than being confined to the warmth of a cosy fireside, where she would find herself engaged in tedious needlework. Nicola, in her youthful innocence and relative naivety, can only see the substantial age difference between them. To her, he is merely an older man, a notion that blinds her to the depth of his affection. This limited perspective, shaped by her youthful ideals of love and attraction, ultimately leads her to a painful realisation—a revelation that comes too late, after she has committed herself to William.

Joyce's portrayal of the era is masterfully crafted, capturing the intricate dynamics of power and conflict. The tumultuous relationship between King Henry II and Thomas Becket stands at the forefront, highlighting the tension between royal authority and ecclesiastical power. Additionally, Henry's unprecedented decision to name his son as heir while still occupying the throne sets the stage for deep divisions within the kingdom. This audacious move not only signals a shift in the balance of power but also foreshadows the turmoil that will arise as loyalties shift and factions form, painting a vivid picture of a realm on the brink of chaos.

In her extensive research on this captivating medieval era, Joyce expertly brings to life the intricacies of the time through her shimmering prose and compelling narrative style. Her dedication is evident in the way she vividly portrays not just the opulent lives of the nobility, but also the struggles and triumphs of ordinary men and women. With a careful, nuanced touch, she repeatedly addresses the plight of the Jewish community, shedding light on their unique challenges and resilience during a time marked by profound social and political upheaval. Each page is a testament to her commitment to portraying the richness of this historical period and the diverse experiences within it.

Joyce has masterfully captured the devastating truths of warfare, intricately detailing the anguish experienced during brutal sieges. Her writing immerses the reader, vividly portraying scenes saturated with chaos and despair. The impact of dysentery ravaging the camp is palpable, as the stench of illness permeates the air and weakens the spirits of the weary soldiers. The cruelty faced by prisoners is heart-wrenching, with their suffering starkly illustrated through haunting imagery. One particularly harrowing scene that stands out involves the grim fate of children, who are tragically hanged—a moment that delivers a jarring shock and proves profoundly difficult to digest. This portrayal fosters a deep sense of sorrow and reflection on the horrors of conflict.

Joyce’s vivid prose and masterful storytelling immerse the reader deeply into the emotional landscapes of her protagonists, making their struggles and triumphs resonate long after the final page has been turned. This debut is not only impressive in its narrative depth but also remarkable in its ability to evoke thought and reflection long after the final page is turned.

Review by Mary Anne Yarde

https://thecoffeepotbookclub.blogspot.com/2025/11/book-review-lady-of-lincoln-by-rachel.html