September 1400 King Richard II of England is dead. And after three years in His Majesty’s service, Rhys ap Tudor and his brother Gwilym are finally free to return to their ancestral home in North Wales. Their long-anticipated homecoming is overshadowed, however, by the harsh changes they encounter in their once peaceful land. The new king, Henry IV, rules with an iron fist, and the country is … ripe for rebellion. Instantly thrust into the forefront of the conflict, the proud Tudor brothers enter the fight for their freedom. Lady Catrin Buckley is alert to the unrest swirling around her. As the daughter of an English father and a Welsh mother, she knows too well the trouble her lineage poses. Her own battle, however, is one of the heart: she is to be married to a man she neither knows nor loves. Then an unexpected encounter with the enigmatic Rhys ap Tudor changes everything. Soon, Catrin finds herself swept into a rebellion that could not only change history but also rewrite her own future.
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Talk about total immersion in history! I was hooked from page one and couldn’t put it down! Love me a handsome archer. =)
Bessey whisks you away to a long forgotten time in this beautifully written love story set in Northern Wales during the 1400’s. Lady Catrin Buckly and Rhys ap Tudor are believable characters placed into a historical setting, complete with the conflicts of the day. The author does an incredible job delivering just enough historical fact to spike reader curiosity. I admit to digging into my own Welsh heritage afterward because of it. Lots of action and romance, a perfect blend for reader enjoyment.
From the time I was eight and I started reading all of the Little House on the Prarie books, historical fiction became one of my favorite genres to read. The Heart of the Rebellion is an alluring journey back through history visiting the beautiful country of Wales in the year 1400. Medieval history is such a fascinating period and author Sian Ann Bessey brings it to life for readers during the Welsh Rebellion called The Glyndŵr Rising. This last “War of Independence” was an uprising of the Welsh between 1400 and 1415, led by Owain Glyndŵr, against the Kingdom of England. It wraps history with fiction, and you have a fascinating story that pulls you in with a romance that’s realistic and sweet.
{I started reading this book right before Parent-Teacher Conferences. I had my book sitting there and while I waited for parents to arrive, I read this story which kept pulling me to its pages. Someone took a picture of me with my nose, once again, stuck in a book.}
I loved the main romantic pairing of Rhys ap Tudor and Lady Catrin Buckley. Both of these characters are very likable, good people and the story is told from both of their POVs. They have great chemistry and I loved how they are drawn together. It’s easy to care about them as they battle against King Henry and injustice. There wasn’t one moment where I wasn’t fully engaged in this novel. This well-written story will delight readers of clean romance and history.
Can I just say that I LOVE the cover of this book? I think it might be one of my favorite covers ever. It represents perfectly what is inside and honestly, I think it is gorgeous.
One of the things I loved about this story is that it transported me to another time and place. I could feel the weather, see the landscape and I could ALMOST hear that beautiful welsh language. Almost. I wish I could have the author read this book to me- then all the names and places would sound just right instead of my very inadequate attempts. In this story, Lady Catrin speaks Welsh and it is the only thing that calms her very spirited horse. He seems to know and understand her every word. I love that the language played a large role in the story as a whole.
Lady Catrin is the perfect heroine. She is trying so hard to become who she believes she is meant to be which is hard given her split heritage of Welsh and English and the conflicts between them. Lady Catrin shows great strength of character along with empathy and kindness, making her someone you root for the whole way through.
Medieval history is one of my favorite time periods to read about. This author excels at portraying it. I really loved this story, the gentle but growing intensity and the fantastic characters that kept me invested from beginning to end.
Content: some mild violence, personal peril, kissing
– I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Sian Bessey has a way with writing historical romance. I love the way I feel as though I’ve changed time and place when I read her books. This one takes the reader to Wales, the land of my ancestors. I loved imagining I was there.
The characters in this one are awesome. I loved Catrin. She is definitely a lady. But she has a wild side. She tears through the country side on her crazy horse. The sweet relationship she had with him was one of my very favorite things about this one. I loved that Catrin knows when she needs to stand up for what she believes is right.
Then there’s Rhys. He’s been serving King Richard II, but now King Henry IV is in charge. And Henry is not kind to the Welsh. And especially not Rhys or his brother. There were so many things happening to the Welsh, taxes so high they couldn’t live, burning of churches and just general injustice. Rhys and his brothers step in and work against the English, making them a target for Henry.
The plot line of this one is great. It’s fun to read about a period in history and imagine you were there. And the love story was beautiful.
You’ll love this one, I know I did!
I was sent a copy of The Heart of the Rebellion as a gift from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Sian Ann Bessy has once again written a love story filled with adventure. It’s set in the 1400s during an uprising between the Welsh and the English. It is filled with wonderful descriptions of the landscape and castles of northern Wales, has an ultimate bad guy in the Duke of Bedford, wonderful supporting characters in the Tudor brothers, Beti (Catrin’s handmaid), and many of the Welsh commoners and has a sweet love story.
I haven’t read many mideval romances but I loved picturing the different dress styles and traditions, and learning about Wales and some of it’s history.
The love story been Rhys and Catrin may be fictional but there is so much truth to the main story that you hope that during the time of the Welsh uprising there was a love like theirs somewhere. To me their story is about letting go of preconceived ideologies and really getting to know someone with different backgrounds and loving each other because of the differences and the things you can work together to accomplish.
With maps, a family tree, and some authors notes at the end you feel that you have not only just enjoyed a great love story but learned more about Wales and it’s history.
I was given access to an advanced copy all opinions are my own.
The story is well-written, but DO NOT READ the Author’s Note first! I don’t know why I did this time. It spoiled the whole story. I started reading it a week ago and finally talked myself into continuing it this week. Again, it is a wonderfully woven tale. I can’t help but love the characters; particularly Lady Catrin Buckley and Rhys ap Tudor. They both learn and grow while retaining the particular traits that make them endearing. Sian Ann Bessey does a wonderful job writing about this era.
My favorite historical fictions are ones that prompt me to learn more outside of the book, and this one definitely did that! I found myself googling all sorts of welsh history the more I was pulled into the fascinating plot. The characters, even the minor ones, were well developed and I found myself interested in every little thing going on. The author balanced the medieval history with romance and rebellion to make for a well rounded, fascinating read.
The beautiful cover drew my eye, and when I read the description of the story, I knew I wanted to read this story. When I realized it was set in a part of Wales I have visited, it intrigued me even more. I love historical fiction, because I enjoy learning about other times and places. The Heart of the Rebellion, set in Wales in 1400, is a fictional account based on actual historical happenings—the rebellion of the Welsh people against Henry IV of England. The setting is richly painted and the characters are realistic, colorful, and engaging, although the Welsh names are unpronounceable! Rhys and Catrin, the main characters are easy to love and cheer for, while the Duke of Bedford is a true villain. I enjoyed seeing Catrin show her courage and independence, and Rhys was sigh-worthy—so valiant and intrepid, but with a tender heart.
I recommend this book to those who enjoy historical fiction. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Covenant Communications through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This was an amazingly beautiful historical romance about the Welsh rebellion many, many years ago.
Lady Catrin Buckley had an English nobleman for a father and a Welsh born mother. She lived in Wales with her father. Her parents had had a love match which is what she wanted for herself but when her father told her he had promised her hand in marriage to a man who was much, much older than she, she had a hard time reconciling what she had always wanted with what was to become her future. When she met the English lord, she was immediately turned off because of his behavior towards the Welsh citizens and her Welsh heritage.
She met Rhys Tudor, the oldest living son of a noble Welsh family, she was immediately attracted to him. But, it wasn’t until she saw his kindness to the common person, that she was reminded of her mother’s kindness towards others and began to see her place in the upcoming Welsh rebellion.
I absolutely loved this story and the history that was told through the interactions between the characters and their honor and love of their country. I was completely drawn in to the story and felt like I was right there along with them as they fought for their independence and love. This story would be considered a clean romance because there was no foul language or sexual scenes. It was just a beautiful story about a proud people who wanted to love and be accepted as who they are.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly and honestly offer my review.
Another epic medieval story that pulled me right in! I love this author’s subtle writing style that shows rather than tells, and I felt immersed in the setting, the characters, and the emotion. Catrin has torn loyalties with an English father and Welsh mother, but by following her heart she finds the courage to take a stand. I can’t imagine living in a time of such harsh circumstances and oppression, but I know there are places in the world today fighting similar battles. This story is full of action and adventure but also explores deeper themes for a truly satisfying read. The romance between Catrin and Rhys is slow-building which brought a lovely sense of anticipation as I read, keeping a hopeful feeling even when the situation was dire. Highly recommend!!!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
I loved every minute I spent reading this book, and I think it was the perfect read with which to finish the year the lush and apt descriptions, the pace of the story and of the introductions of (new) characters were just perfect so that it never felt overbearing.
Honestly, I was a bit apprehensive when starting this book since my knowledge of (English) Medieval times is rusty at best, and the (North) Wales one is pretty much nonexistent. However, the author did a truly wonderful job not only of research in order to achieve historical accuracy, but also of honing her writing skills in such a way that transported me right to the 1400s. Her lyrical descriptions of the settings made me wish I could jump in the next plane and go visit Wales, while the pace of the book kept me turning the pages and wanting to find more about this story way past my bedtime.
I truly enjoyed getting to know the Tudors of Penmynydd, as well as life at the Beaumaris Castle. And the romance? It was deliciously slow-burn, and perfect to curl up with and enjoy every second of it (I seriously was looking forward to every interaction between Catrin and Rhys ).
Now, can I take a minute to gush about that cover? I fell in love with it from the moment I saw it! I mean, who doesn’t love horses, the aura of mysteriousness surrounding it, the ruins in the background with its promise of history… and isn’t that the perfect picture of Catrin riding Seren? It’s just all so beautiful!!
5 stars and completely recommended to all the lovers of Medieval times + sweet romance!!!
The Heart of the Rebellion by Sian Ann Bessey
This was a lovely clean historical romance. Taken from historical accounts during the beginning of the 15th century. the Welch revolution were fighting for their freedom from England and HenryIV. Some of the people and places were factual but the story is fictional. The story begins with two Welch revolutionist coming home from fighting, when they meet a beautiful young noble woman.
Rhys ap Tudor and Lady Catrin Buckley cross paths., multiple times, and attraction is set in motion. As the story continues and war is eminent, Lady Catrin must decide who side she is on, as she comes from a Welch mother and an English nobleman as her father..And the story continues…
I really enjoyed this book. The author brilliantly described each. scene perfectly. The characters were believable and strong. The authors note at the end of the book tied everything together and give you a glimpse into the history of Wales at that time. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys sweet romance with a bit of history. I received this book from the publisher through net galley for an honest review.
First of all the cover of this book is gorgeous!! This story is set in the 1400’s in Wales during the reign of the new King Henry IV. It’s hard to be Welsh during this time, especially if you’re a Tudor, so it’s not surprising that the people rose up in a rebellion against the iron-fisted rule of Henry IV.
The author’s descriptions drew me into the story immediately. Catrin is a great character. She’s English on her father’s side and Welsh on her mother’s, which kind of puts her in the middle of things, but a cruel and unwarranted act of violence by Henry IV pushes her to find her courage and follow her heart. I loved how she controlled her big horse, Seren, by speaking Welsh to him. Catrin’s kind of shy at the beginning of the story but becomes a strong, brave young woman by the end. One of my favorite scenes is when Catrin tells off the Duke of Bedford, which helps her to decide to help the Tudors and the rebellion. During her time with them she grows into a confident woman whose bravery helps them win decisive part of the battle.
You could tell Rhys and Catrin were interested in each other from the beginning but neither acted on it. The rebellion was the focus of the story but the reader still gets a feeling of how these two characters felt about each other.
I think I’ve only read a handful of books set in Medieval times and this is a new author to me so I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but I’m so happy I read this book. You can tell the author, who grew up on the island of Anglesey, did a lot of research into the time period and the Welsh Rebellion lead by the Tudor brothers. I love when I can learn some history while reading a great book. I’ll definitely check out some other books by this author.
This book transported me to Wales during the Midieval time period. I loved the descriptions of Wales and the developing story between Catrin and Rhys. It is a book that I would like to see a sequel to for Gwilym’s story.
I received a free digital copy of this book. All thoughts above are my own.
THE HEART OF THE REBELLION is a story readers will love with its lush setting, charming characters, and a plot to cheer on as these characters fight for their freedom. Highly recommended!
It was so easy to love these characters! From the start, Rhys and his brothers hd a natural bond full of care for each other and humor that I just adored. I especially loved Rhys as he was strong and brave, but also kind and intelligent. Then there was Catrin… she was also fierce in her own way, but also kind and sweet. I appreciated how well these characters were fleshed out and that their dialogue and actions allowed me to feel a connection grow between them. I never felt that I had to be told the story, but rather experienced it with them. The romance slowly buildt over the course of the book and is charmingly sweet to the very end.
This was also a story with a very well written plot. I find this time period to be very intriguing and the story only increased my interest. I also love stories where characters are the underdogs but fight anyway for something that is so important, and here the Welshmen are fighting for their freedom against England and the burden their people are continually put under. It’s a noble cause that I could easily get behind. The author didn’t sugar coat the difficulties and challenges these characters faced, but she didn’t go into gory details, and still conveyed what she needed to.
In the end, was it what I wished for? I loved this story from beginning to end! It’s definitely a book I will be recommended to others and would also be a good book club read. If you’re a sweet historical romance fan, do not skip this one!
Content: Some violence, but clean.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
I had heard of the Tudors before, but wasn’t sure if they were real people or not. It was interesting to read the author’s note at the end that gave the reader more information on these very real people. I always enjoy extra information with these historical novels.
As usual, I completely butcher Welsh pronunciation, but this time it didn’t make my mind stutter as much as it has in the past, which made for a much smoother reading.
I really enjoyed this story. Catrin and her relationship with her father, Rhys and others that she came in contact with just made the story for me. I do wonder what happened to her father though. I may have to reread it and see if I missed that information in there somewhere.
I’m not usually one to comment on the cover of a book, but I absolutely love this one. I kept looking at it, just taking everything in. Catrin’s dress is beautiful and the scenery is breathtaking. Whoever chose this cover did an amazing job.
I’ve read a lot of historical romance novels over the years. Many of them from the Regency era, but from other time periods also. It’s always refreshing to come across one from a time period and location that I’m not as familiar with. Bessey’s love and knowledge of Wales shine through in this tale of love and rebellion. Rhys ap Tudor and Lady Catrin Buckley make for an interesting pair especially as their growing romance comes at an awkward time for both of them. Lady Catrin has just become betrothed to a man twice her age who she has never met and knows little about. Rhys has just returned home and is having to make choices about his future. Neither planned on becoming involved in a revolt. Yet they both do get involved and their growing feelings for each other complicate matters mightily. Bessey does a fine job telling her story of love and loss, courage and conviction, and passion and power. Even more intriguing is the fact that some of the events in the story actually happened, making me wonder about the real people the story is based on. A well-told story that I very much enjoyed reading.
Author Sian Ann Bessey has written a splendid Welsh medieval romance in her novel The Heart of the Rebellion. As always, Bessey has done her homework with her research. It is impeccably and beautifully woven into her charming story, bringing it life. This story will pull readers in completely. From the turn of the first page to the turn of the last, readers will be sucked into the world of Henry IV and the Tudors as Bessey shows us what this time in history is like. Filled with an abundance of history and a sweet and forbidden romance, readers will want to be sure and pick up this wonderful story!
Genre: historical, romance, medieval
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Publication date: November 1, 2019
Number of pages: 276
A review copy of this book was provided by Covenant Communications. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
**4.5 stars**
This book is beautiful inside and out. I love the cover and the book is fascinating. Sian Ann Bessey has presented a story and setting that are well done.
This book is set during the Welsh rebellion in the early 15th Century. When a book is well written I tend to start looking up the people and events portrayed in the story. I spent a fair amount of time Googling Rhys ap Tudor and the capture of Conway Castle. Sian Ann Bessey really brought the events and people to life. I could almost imagine myself there with them.
This is a bit of a love story between Rhys and Catrin. There is an underlying attraction that is present from the moment they meet. The story focuses more on the struggles of Wales to be free from Britain than on romance.
This book is a work of fiction loosely based on events in history. I loved the time I spent reading it.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.