Reviewed by Francine:
For too long this book has been sitting in my TBR file, and finally I’ve
read it. Thus, fully expecting a damn good read, Ms Riley has most definitely
thrust her historical punches on the research front. From page one Justin Ambrose
brings to the fore the atmosphere surrounding Banbury Castle, not least the
town, and its underlying Puritan leanings. Whilst he and his men suffer the
consequences of soldiers as good as under siege and not daring to slacken their
guard within the castle walls, there are moments of respite and of course
trading for wares to be enacted. But not all the townsfolk are as willing to
oblige those looked upon as the enemy, and the streets can be a dangerous place
for the unwary. What is more, when cavaliers patronise specific establishments
and female eyes stray from the dour countenance of their brethren to dashing young
blades, scorn and abhorrence soon gives rise to contention of a differing nature
to that of mere allegiance to opposing forces. Personal grievance can lead to
vendettas, and when budding romance crosses the boundary of social acceptance
retribution brings inevitable heartache and fear of worse to come. Hence
Banbury Castle becomes a refuge for more than those who have sworn to hold it
against all the odds set against them until relief arrives, if ever that can
be. Therefore, A Splendid Defiance is true to its title, enhanced by historical
fact and peppered with touches of fiction to stir emotions as only love and
romance can alongside swashbuckling military feats of endurance. A thoroughly
enjoyable novel.
