A Splendid Defiance

by Stella Riley
A Splendid Defiance cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Historical Fiction
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  • ID: 6875
  • Added: 2025-12-05
  • Updated: 2025-12-05
  • ISBN: 9798722757920
  • Published: 2012-12-06
  • Reviews: 3

Set against the backdrop of the English Civil War, 'A Splendid Defiance' weaves a tale of love and defiance. The story unfolds in Banbury, Oxfordshire, where the Cavaliers hold the Castle, and the Roundheads are determined to reclaim it. The town is teeming with zealous Puritans, creating a volatile atmosphere. Captain Justin Ambrose, a Cavalier, and Abigail Radford, the sister of a fanatically religious shopkeeper, find themselves drawn to each other despite the immense societal and political divide./n/nThe key to both the fate of the Castle and the future of Justin and Abigail lies in their shared spirit of defiance. As they navigate the turmoil and anguish of the war, their love story becomes a beacon of hope amidst the chaos. This dramatic and enchanting narrative explores themes of forbidden love, resilience, and the power of defiance in the face of adversity.

Reviews
The Coffee Pot Book Club · 2024-03-11
enchanting 4.25

A dramatic and enchanting story of forbidden love, set against the turmoil of the English Civil War.

This review focuses on the dramatic and enchanting nature of the story, set against the backdrop of the English Civil War. The reviewer highlights the forbidden love aspect, which adds tension and depth to the narrative. They appreciate the historical context and how it enriches the romantic and dramatic elements of the story. The reviewer finds the book to be a compelling read, with a well-crafted blend of history and romance.

Quick quotes

    A dramatic and enchanting story of forbidden love, set against the turmoil and anguish of the English Civil War.

    Winner of the Romantic Novel of the Year Award 2017.

    The characters are vividly drawn, each navigating their own struggles amidst the chaos.

Rakes and Rascals · 2017-02-08
engaging 4.50

A beautifully written romance with fascinating characters and an engrossing story, rich in historical details. It is highly recommended.

This review highlights the book's strengths in character development and historical detail. The reviewer praises the engaging narrative and the richly drawn characters, making it a standout in historical romance. They emphasize the book's ability to captivate readers with its detailed setting and compelling story. The reviewer clearly enjoyed the book and finds it highly recommendable.

Quick quotes

    A beautifully written romance with fascinating characters and an engrossing story, rich in historical details.

    Highly recommended.

    The characters are vividly drawn, each navigating their own struggles amidst the chaos.

All About Romance · 2016-12-20
compelling 4.00

The story is richly detailed with a beautifully developed romance and a compelling, unforgettable protagonist.

The reviewer is impressed by the depth of detail in the story and the development of the romantic relationship. They find the protagonist particularly compelling and unforgettable, which adds to the overall enjoyment of the book. The historical setting is well-utilised, enhancing the romantic and dramatic elements. The reviewer appreciates the richness of the narrative and the memorable characters.

Quick quotes

    If you're looking for a richly detailed story, a beautifully developed romance and a compelling, devastatingly attractive and unforgettable protagonist, look no further.

    The historical setting is well-utilised, enhancing the romantic and dramatic elements.

    The characters are vividly drawn, each navigating their own struggles amidst the chaos.

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