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I followed the author, Rosemary, on social media before I requested this advance copy. Rosemary had posted a stunning picture of Dartington Hall, and a little bit about the story of Isabeu, Countess of Montgomery and Rorberda who lived there. I was instantly intrigued and wanted to know more, so was delighted when I had the opportunity to review The Dartington Bride.

I thought this was an unique, interesting and personal piece of historical fiction, that focuses on a woman who grows up surrounded by conflict, from growing up in war torn France to fighting for a doomed marriage.

Roberda’s character comes through in the novel; and the writing is intimate, so her story feels very personal and real. I was utterly gripped by her story and her voice, and the way I, as a reader, was brought into her life and faced her challenges alongside her. She was strong but she was also vulnerable, and she was a fighter, inspired by her fierce and admirable mother.

The Dartington Bride was crammed with history, from the French Wars of Religion to the court of Elizabeth I, and there were some familiar faces like Walter Raleigh. Though there was a lot of information about Tudor England and France to absorb, it never felt too much. This was partly as Griggs weaves the history into the plot, and it’s told through characters living in the moment.

This is such a skilful interpretation of a historical woman, woven from extensive research and a creative touch. This novel was bursting with history and humanity, and was utterly compelling from start to finish.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

Original review posted on Goodreads on 4 April 2024

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