Title: The Heart of the Rebellion
Author: Sian Ann Bessey
Genre: Historical, romance
Rating: 4.5 out of 5

With the English King Richard II dead, Rhys ap Tudor and his brother Gwilym are free to return home after three years’ service to the king. Home to North Wales, where their younger brother has been taking care of their family and lands in their absence. But the new king, Henry IV, is demanding more taxes from people already beset by poverty, and the land is ripe for rebellion.

Lady Catrin Buckley is daughter of an English lord and a Welsh mother. Catrin misses her mother so much, it’s hard for her to embrace her mother’s heritage, but when she is betrothed to a man she’s never met, a man intent on erasing every bit of the Welsh from Catrin herself, she is drawn to the Welsh people—and Rhys ap Tudor—at the heart of the rebellion against English rule.

I enjoyed The Heart of the Rebellion. It’s set against the backdrop of a larger conflict, but the close involvement with a handful of characters makes the struggle personal. Catrin’s growth from a girl occupied by her own sorrows to a woman immersed in the lives and cares of those around her is wonderful to read, and I enjoyed every page.

Sian Ann Bessey was born in England, grew up in Wales, and attended college in the U.S. The Heart of the Rebellion is her newest novel.

(Galley courtesy of Covenant Communications via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.)

The Heart of the Rebellion and historical fiction book takes place in Wales during a time of peril and danger for the Welsh people and the English king. Focusing on a familiar last name Rhys Ap Tudor who's last name takes his family into royalty many centuries later. Along with his brother they come home after a long and difficult war with King Richard II, but their reunion is short lived when they are thrown back into an another rebellion against the tyrant King Henry IV. Lady Catrin the daughter of an English Nobel and Welsh mother, must come to the decision of her loyalties lie and if she will follow her people and her love or stay with the English and reject her ancestry. War has begun and the sides must be chosen before it choses you.

This book starts out and little slow but it defiantly captured my attention and I even learned more about the importance moments in Welsh history that I did not know before hand. An enjoyable read that and for anyone that enjoys historical fiction genre.genre

A beautiful romance set in rebellious 15th century Wales, a place and time in history this sheltered American knew absolutely nothing about. But I greatly enjoyed the history lesson as much as seeing the romance unfold. This story was pretty much what I expected it to be, but I enjoyed it waaaay more than I thought I would.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Wow. This story stuck with me. I was immediately captured by the stunning cover and knew I had to read it. No regrets: the story was just as beautiful.

I've never (to my recollection) read a book set so far in the past. The book takes place in the 1400s, and follows the Tudor brothers as they fight against an oppressive English rule. Lady Catrin, the central love interest of the story, acts with such conviction and heart. She truly cares for those she loves, and she fiercely loves her Welsh people.

This author knows how to set a story; the descriptions were so vivid, I felt as if I was looking out on the same landscape as our characters. Similarly, she does a brilliant job with the characters. The cast list is kept tight: the ones critical to the story are fleshed out in great detail and become three-dimensional characters, but there is no unnecessary world-building complexity. Thanks to this distinction, I didn't find myself lost or perplexed, trying to remember who was who or what something meant. I also appreciated how the author navigated the Welsh culture, as their language is notoriously challenging for non-Welsh to understand. She often describes the feel or cadence/rhythm of the language spoken, so you get a feel for its beauty, rather than being bogged down by an unfamiliar language (which would pull the reader out of the story line).

This is a clean story; no innuendo and no relations beyond kissing. The story also does not have any swearing or inappropriate language. As the plot takes place during an uprising, there is violence, but it was not graphically described.

If I had to select one quote to embody the entire story, it would be this"
"... 'tis far easier to be brave when the outcome of my actions directly affects people for whom I care deeply."

Thank you, Covenant Communications, for letting me read and review an ARC of this story in exchange for an honest review.

Wow. A phenomenal, historical, must-read. This was a new to me author, but I was captivated by the cover and intrigued by the description. I am so glad I took a chance on this. I was a little thrown off at first with the traditional use of Welsh names, but the guide in the beginning was very helpful. The characters were well developed, and the rich story line slowly unfolded to completely grab the reader. I found myself staying up way too late because I just did not want to put it down. When I was finished, the power of the story stayed with me and I found myself frequently thinking of the characters. If you love stories rich in history with a quick pace and a true love story to warm your heart, you will want to read this book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Years ago my sister purchased a book and said I had to read it. So I picked up, Forgotten Notes, and was instantly transported to Wales. I felt like I was there and walking along the streets and paths in the quaint village. I couldn't wait to go there. I dreamed about it. My mom went on a genealogy trip there. I still have yet to go. But without fail, anytime I see this author's name or read a book by her set in Wales, I am instantly transported back to the first story I read by her and that desire to someday see the beautiful country.

I saw this cover and knew I couldn't wait to read this medieval historical novel. A fun connection I discovered after reading the book was that the author grew up on the island of Anglesey, where this novel is set. It was very rich with history and was a beautiful story of survival and freedom. There is also a sweet love story woven throughout the story. It isn't the main focus but was woven in such a way that it brightened and brought more hope to this story.

There was so much that I enjoyed about this story. Lady Catrin, Rhys and his brothers, the Welsh soldiers, Seren the magnificent horse, the strength and love of the Welsh people, and much, much more. I'm actually writing this review several days after reading the book. But the imagery and story have stuck with me since then. I have thought of these characters and lush scenes over and over again. This will be like the first book I read by this author, one that will continue to invade my thoughts and bring me back to reading it again and again.

If you haven't ever read a book by this author, I highly recommend it. Because it's a favorite of mine, I'd recommend starting with Forgotten Notes. But any others are fabulous as well.

Content: Some moments of peril, fire and death. It is during a rebellion so there are battles and struggles as well. Nothing overly graphic, all written very well.

I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

I really enjoyed this historical fiction! I was fascinated by a period of history I admitedly know very little about. The author's research and personal history came through with a passion. The ending didn't tie up all the loose ends, but it was satisfying. Plus the author's note at the end added an extra special touch and tie back to the real history. I loved that while this was a romance, it was mostly historical with a strong romantic side story. My favorite balance.

I loved this book! Sian Ann Bessey has a way of capturing your interest from the start, drawing you in and cultivating characters that it is easy to care for. Catrin Buckley and Rhys ap Tudor are fascinating characters, made more so by the fact that several of the characters mentioned in the book actually existed in history.

This book doesn't just entertain and engage, it inspires the reader to delve more deeply into history, to understand the intricacies of the politics of the time, and to become more educated. A wonderful read.

I loved the setting of this book and how Sian Ann really brought the history to life! I enjoyed learning more about the time period and the characters were wonderfully written.

I really wanted to love this novel! I was so excited to read about Wales, a place that I haven't read too much about. And while I enjoyed both the main characters, Rhys and Catrin, I felt the book was bogged down by unnecessary details about the rebellion. Don't get me wrong, the rebellion is a vital part of the story and one I was excited to read about. But I don't think the balance was right between history and romance. Rhys and Catrin's chemistry was lacking because we didn't have enough of them. Instead we had a lot of time with horses and describing the political system at the time. Overall, a lot of potential for a great story, but just not my cup of tea.

Thank you NetGalley and Covenant Communications for the eARC!

“Rhys ap Tudor braced himself against the ship’s bow, his eyes trained on the coastline ahead. The sky was blue, but a gusty wind filled the cog’s wide sail and whipped whitecaps onto the tips of the already choppy waves.” - Opening lines of The Heart of the Rebellion by Sian Ann Bessey

Sian Ann Bessey’s The Heart of the Rebellion is set 1400 Wales under the rule of King Henry IV. Our leads are Rhys ap Tudor (yes, that Tudor!) and Lady Catrin Buckley. Wales is suffering under English rule and, upon Rhys’ return from fighting for the English, he realizes how extreme the poverty is. He has been back only a short while before he finds himself in the midst of a Welsh uprising against King Henry IV. Catrin is considered English, a daughter of a an English nobleman, but her mother was Welsh and she lives in a castle in Wales.

A chance meeting with Rhys leads out of her sheltered world and allows her to connect with the people around it. Her beautiful horse is her closest friend and refuge and galloping across the countryside is a favourite for her and Rhys. Swiftly a friendship develops. Catrin’s world is turned upside down when she is set to marry and English lord who is offensive and belittling. She finds herself wanting to help those in need and escape her engagement.

My family has Welsh roots, my grandmother was Welsh, so I enjoyed spending time understanding this slice of history. I had no idea that the British royal Tudors originated from Wales. Whilst the context is true, the details are fictional so I felt the need to go off and further explore this fascinating part of history.

“A good horse is the best listener there is. No matter how heavy the troubles, their shoulders are bigger than ours.” - The Heart of the Rebellion by Sian Ann Bessey

As a horse lover, I spent a considerable amount of the book worrying about the horses’ welfare in the exciting happenings of war and adventure. For those like me, the horses are all fine!

The story is full of unexpected twists and turns, it’s a page-turner! The characters are wonderfully developed and the writing is beautiful. It’s a four out of five en-JOY-ment scale and recommended!

The Heart of the Rebellion by Sian Ann Bessey is a terrific blending of history and fiction. Skillful storytelling like this is one of the reasons I have long enjoyed the historical fiction genre. It does have romance in the story which usually merits a "pass, no thank you" from me as these days historical fiction seems to mean an explicit "romance" that takes place in the undiscerned past. I mean really, when it takes place seems to matter less than what the main characters get up to and how embarassingly descriptive the author can be.

Fortunately, The Heart of the Rebellion is nothing like those supposed historical fictions. The when is important to the story, the romance chaste, the majority of the characters actually existed, the events did happen. It should not have to be noteworthy or shocking when historical fiction is both historical and fiction! I especially appreciated the Author's Note at the end of the book; while I am familiar with the names, I hadn't really sat and necessarily thought about their place in history, their legacy (especially in regards to the British monarchy). When you see the names and fit them into the timeline, wow! The pieces of the puzzle fitting in together really strikes home for me.

I sincerely hope that Mrs. Bessey continues the story for us and that this is not just a one off. I would very much enjoy reading of the family through the years.

I read one of Bessey’s books years ago but this one just left me flat. I struggled to get interested in the story and the characters. Not a bad story, but just didn’t hold my interest.

I was provided with an ARC of this book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Step back to the year 1400. The English have taken over Wales, and the Welsh people are not having it. This means war! This is an exciting tale of three men, brothers, that lived and lead the uprising against the English rule. Fascinating bits of history and actual events from long ago woven into a beautiful love story. I truly enjoyed reading this book. I will likely read it again and again.

This is a tough one to rate because there were things I really loved about the book starting with it’s gorgeous cover. The cover is what made me go searching Netgalley for an early copy and squeal with delight that I got approved. I settled in for an exciting and romantic read due to the time period but I almost set the book aside at 35%. The excitement I expected was lacking and I wasn’t connecting with the characters. But then at 40% things started heating up and battles begun. The ending petered off again and almost left you wondering how the end of the story went (make sure to read the authors note at the end to find out). The history was rich and well researched and I loved the uniqueness of the Welsh setting and the Tudor brother’s interaction but overall I felt I wanted less of some things and more of others.

I don’t make the comparison often, but Sian Ann Bessey The Heart of the Rebellion reminded me pleasantly of Chadwick’s early Welsh romances.

Inspired by the life of Rhys ap Tewdwr, Bessey’s story invites readers to experience a romantic drama set against the rebellion that marked Henry IV’s ascendance of the English throne. The love story takes center stage and reflects a certain degree of creative license, but it strikes a heroic chord I believe appealing to those with a taste for romantic fiction.

I found the novel nicely-paced and feel Bessey’s personal understanding of Welsh culture brings a lot to the narrative. Historically speaking, Bessey’s story is grounded in the politics of the day, but I like the balance she found between theme and subject matter. I also appreciated the nods she afforded readers of Tudor lit in her exploration of Rhys’ extended family circle.

A light but engaging read. Recommended for all fans of medieval fiction.

Do you enjoy stories set in Medieval times? If so, you will like reading about Wales’ struggle for freedom in the 1400’s! Rhys and his brothers Gwilym amd Maredudd join the Welsh Crown Prince in the fight against King Henry of England. Lady Catrin the daughter of a Welsh mother and an English father, Lord Buckley, meets Rhys Tudor while she is riding with her stallion, Seren. Lady Catrin sympathizes with the Welsh but is engaged to an elderly Englishman until he helps to burn her mother’s burial grounds and church.
Caitlyn risks everything to help the Welsh...

Set during the Owain Glyndwr rebellion, this is a beautifully evocative novel which captures Wales wonderfully. The author brings the land and the time to life, with an MC who is English enough to deal with the lords and Welsh enough to be respected by her mother’s people. It’s 1400. Richard II has been deposed and is now dead. His cousin Henry IV has taken the throne, removing many Welsh lords from power whereas Richard had had a fairly good relationship with them. Naturally they don’t want to go gentle into that goodnight. What follows is the final end of the remains of the Welsh royal family and nobility. Henry IV was a better king than Richard, but he did deal harshly with the Welsh. Thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was historically accurate and meticulously researched, and the romance stayed a comfortable sub plot, instead of overpowering the whole. Highly recommend.

This historical romance set on the cusp of the 14th/15th century (depending on if you count from 0 or 1) fails to sparkle.

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.

Thanks to NetGalley and Covenant Communications for my copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.