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hinalovestoread's review against another edition
4.0
Not simply a historical, it is a well researched novel placing all the facts in the right place to weave a tale that is enchanting in it's own right.
Not only does the story talk about Love and Passion but also portrays Loyalty in its extreme.
A must read for all historical buffs out there.
Not only does the story talk about Love and Passion but also portrays Loyalty in its extreme.
A must read for all historical buffs out there.
100pagesaday's review against another edition
5.0
Lady Godiva of Coventry was raised both as daughter and son and is fiercely loyal to her people and lands. When her parents unexpectedly die, their absence leaves Coventry open to attack from the Dane, Thurkilll the Tall. When Lord Leofric of Mercia arrives with aid, Godiva wholeheartedly accepts, thinking of nothing but her people and her home. Godiva’s trusted knight; Edmund has warned her that Leofric’s aid will not come without a price. When Leofric names his price, Godiva again only thinks of the safety of her people. With a new union, Leofric and Godiva have more of a business agreement and a battle of wills than a marriage, but with Godiva’s spirit, Leofric may be the one who falls.
I did not know much about Lady Godiva going into this book, other than her naked ride. However, I was hooked from the prologue and Lady Godiva is my new hero. I loved Godiva's spirit and personality, how she would do anything for her people. Godiva's character was created to be strong, an actual warrior who fought with her people, intelligent and a good politician during a tumultuous and dangerous time. I especially loved that she made the best of the situation and became a peace weaver, with the beautiful term fripwebba. The writing was enchanting and endearing, making the characters and this time period come alive. Sometimes I find it hard to relate to people so long ago, but Godiva, Leofric, Edmund and Aine all felt like people I could relate to. This story is about so much more than the famous naked ride, it is about a woman with immense strength, courage, and bravery that saved her people and eventually herself.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
I did not know much about Lady Godiva going into this book, other than her naked ride. However, I was hooked from the prologue and Lady Godiva is my new hero. I loved Godiva's spirit and personality, how she would do anything for her people. Godiva's character was created to be strong, an actual warrior who fought with her people, intelligent and a good politician during a tumultuous and dangerous time. I especially loved that she made the best of the situation and became a peace weaver, with the beautiful term fripwebba. The writing was enchanting and endearing, making the characters and this time period come alive. Sometimes I find it hard to relate to people so long ago, but Godiva, Leofric, Edmund and Aine all felt like people I could relate to. This story is about so much more than the famous naked ride, it is about a woman with immense strength, courage, and bravery that saved her people and eventually herself.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
ashkitty93's review against another edition
3.0
"I'm a racing car passing by like Lady Godiva..."
So, no joke, this moved up on my priority list after we watched Bohemian Rhapsody a few months ago and I got onto (yet another) Queen kick. After finishing, I have to say that I'm pretty sure 95% of this was fictional, because the legend of the naked ride is just that - apparently has no plausible basis in fact. Thorkell the Tall was a real person, as Godiva and Leofric were. That's... it? idk. I appreciated the book because it wove a decent story, but I think my actual favorite historical fact to come out of all this (which wasn't in the book bc it happened later) is that Godiva is actually in the Domesday book. The only woman to hold land in the Domesday book. Cool as heck.
Another thing: The writing style didn't always agree with me. I got the poetic-prose vibe she was going for, but a lot of the time it just felt really choppy and fragmented. Commas aren't the plague.
Good historical fiction story, based more on fiction than history.
So, no joke, this moved up on my priority list after we watched Bohemian Rhapsody a few months ago and I got onto (yet another) Queen kick. After finishing, I have to say that I'm pretty sure 95% of this was fictional, because the legend of the naked ride is just that - apparently has no plausible basis in fact. Thorkell the Tall was a real person, as Godiva and Leofric were. That's... it? idk. I appreciated the book because it wove a decent story, but I think my actual favorite historical fact to come out of all this (which wasn't in the book bc it happened later) is that Godiva is actually in the Domesday book. The only woman to hold land in the Domesday book. Cool as heck.
Another thing: The writing style didn't always agree with me. I got the poetic-prose vibe she was going for, but a lot of the time it just felt really choppy and fragmented. Commas aren't the plague.
Good historical fiction story, based more on fiction than history.
jennifermilanovic's review against another edition
2.0
Nothing irks me more than periods at the end of phrases, not sentences. Also, I was hoping for more history and less romance.
illy95's review against another edition
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
I enjoyed this retelling of Godiva's ride. I must admit, I knew nothing more than "Godiva rode naked through her town". I didn't even know the purpose of her naked ride and assumed it was some strange part of the Tales of King Arthur, it is not. Redgold makes a point of starting the novel with a historical note to explain the route she takes and I like that. Quick read, not too deep or shallow of a read. Enjoyable.
whiskeyinthejar's review against another edition
4.0
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Lady Godiva's famous naked ride through the streets is definitely a memorable tale but only a small part of the story. Invading Danes, traitors, famine, and a powerful Earl all swirl around Godiva as she struggles to not only survive but maintain control over the coveted Middle Lands. The Earl of Mercia, Leofric, looks to be her savior but could be secretly angling for more power as her childhood friend Edmund warns. With her heart and mind at odds, Godiva must battle the dangers of her time all while navigating through her true feelings.
Naked is a historical romance novel that incorporates real historical figures and interweaves notes from historical documents, myth, legend, and artistic license. The people, time, and places you've glimpsed from paintings and poems come alive as their story unfolds. In what I imagine is a nod to the inspiration for this story, Tennyson's poem, this story is written in a very poetic stylistic way. Told in first person from Godiva's point of view, her inner monologue has poetic flare with shorter, choppy sentences. The first 10% or so was a little difficult for me to get into but as the story went on, I was able to merge into the flow of the story. If you're not a fan of poetry and its rhythm, you would probably find yourself struggling to read this. The conversation between the characters does follow the more traditional form of novel structure, however.
I have read the poems and viewed the paintings so I already felt closeness with Godiva but she truly came alive for me here. Writing about a true historical figure is a tricky thing as some already have preconceived notions you might clash with but as Godiva seems known and only known for her ride, Naked gave her the depth and breadth such a woman deserves. Godiva was revealed to be strong and caring but had a little bit of the romance heroine naiveté when it came to realizing who the true villain was; women can be kind without having TSTL moments. Her blindness was a way to create angst between her and our hero Leofric but it went on a little too long. Leofric is often forgotten as the man who sent Godiva on her ride and as such, he was an intriguing mystery to me. The author definitely delivered providing readers with a hard, stoic, strong, supportive, and above all, hero. From the moment he comes charging into the scene on his horse and armor, piercing Godiva with his blue gaze, you know things are about to change.
As I mentioned, this is told from Godiva's point of view and while I missed Leofric's thoughts, for the beginning and middle, he had an incredibly strong presence. It was towards the end that we lose him a bit as he acted out of character making the lead up to Godiva's ride feel rushed. Godiva and Leofric work as a couple with their moments of heat and Leofric's willingness to shun some 1023 year thinking but they also fall victim to the keeping secrets and not just talking about it machination; a lot could have been avoided if they had just talked with one another. They read like enjoyable level headed characters so their lack of communication, which was explained as mistrust, felt slightly forced.
Overall, I enjoyed this fictional peek behind the curtain of a true historical figure. The author shied away from using a lot of 11th century words, which I think will help in the enjoyment of reading, but still managed to convey a feeling for the time period; I felt transported. Medieval period romance (this actually felt more romance to me than historical fiction) is greatly ignored right now but where else can you find fantastically named villains such as Thurkill (Thorkell) the Tall, who was also a real person? If you can get into the poetic rhythm of the writing, you will find yourself absorbed by the story and inspired to learn even more about these real life characters.
Lady Godiva's famous naked ride through the streets is definitely a memorable tale but only a small part of the story. Invading Danes, traitors, famine, and a powerful Earl all swirl around Godiva as she struggles to not only survive but maintain control over the coveted Middle Lands. The Earl of Mercia, Leofric, looks to be her savior but could be secretly angling for more power as her childhood friend Edmund warns. With her heart and mind at odds, Godiva must battle the dangers of her time all while navigating through her true feelings.
Naked is a historical romance novel that incorporates real historical figures and interweaves notes from historical documents, myth, legend, and artistic license. The people, time, and places you've glimpsed from paintings and poems come alive as their story unfolds. In what I imagine is a nod to the inspiration for this story, Tennyson's poem, this story is written in a very poetic stylistic way. Told in first person from Godiva's point of view, her inner monologue has poetic flare with shorter, choppy sentences. The first 10% or so was a little difficult for me to get into but as the story went on, I was able to merge into the flow of the story. If you're not a fan of poetry and its rhythm, you would probably find yourself struggling to read this. The conversation between the characters does follow the more traditional form of novel structure, however.
I have read the poems and viewed the paintings so I already felt closeness with Godiva but she truly came alive for me here. Writing about a true historical figure is a tricky thing as some already have preconceived notions you might clash with but as Godiva seems known and only known for her ride, Naked gave her the depth and breadth such a woman deserves. Godiva was revealed to be strong and caring but had a little bit of the romance heroine naiveté when it came to realizing who the true villain was; women can be kind without having TSTL moments. Her blindness was a way to create angst between her and our hero Leofric but it went on a little too long. Leofric is often forgotten as the man who sent Godiva on her ride and as such, he was an intriguing mystery to me. The author definitely delivered providing readers with a hard, stoic, strong, supportive, and above all, hero. From the moment he comes charging into the scene on his horse and armor, piercing Godiva with his blue gaze, you know things are about to change.
As I mentioned, this is told from Godiva's point of view and while I missed Leofric's thoughts, for the beginning and middle, he had an incredibly strong presence. It was towards the end that we lose him a bit as he acted out of character making the lead up to Godiva's ride feel rushed. Godiva and Leofric work as a couple with their moments of heat and Leofric's willingness to shun some 1023 year thinking but they also fall victim to the keeping secrets and not just talking about it machination; a lot could have been avoided if they had just talked with one another. They read like enjoyable level headed characters so their lack of communication, which was explained as mistrust, felt slightly forced.
Overall, I enjoyed this fictional peek behind the curtain of a true historical figure. The author shied away from using a lot of 11th century words, which I think will help in the enjoyment of reading, but still managed to convey a feeling for the time period; I felt transported. Medieval period romance (this actually felt more romance to me than historical fiction) is greatly ignored right now but where else can you find fantastically named villains such as Thurkill (Thorkell) the Tall, who was also a real person? If you can get into the poetic rhythm of the writing, you will find yourself absorbed by the story and inspired to learn even more about these real life characters.
jlynnelseauthor's review against another edition
3.0
I received an advance review copy from publisher via NetGalley. A HUGE thank you to NetGalley & the publisher for this opportunity to read and review. My opinions are unbiased.
“Naked” is a retelling of the legend of Lady Godiva. I enjoyed the way the author fleshed out this legendary tale. Godiva was a courageous and loyal leader who put herself in front of danger to protect her people, including into a battle with Thurkill the Tall’s army, a Dane looking to conquer the Saxon lands after ambushing and murdering Godiva’s parents. I enjoyed the struggles and triumphs of Godiva and the strength she found in her heart bent on serving others.
I had a few issues with the book. The author references a “kaleidoscope.” Is this a proper reference someone in the 11th Century would have used? Additionally, much of the prose is written with short, choppy sentences. At first when Godiva is watching the clothes slip off her before her famous ride, this style works. But as the book went on, it made the storyline feel incomplete. However, there were a few good, lyrical moments. One I liked (I quote from a review copy and should be verified with the original before others quote) was:
“Were they real?” I’d asked, half asleep, my arms twining her neck.
“Were who real, my sweet heart?” (Godiva’s mother)
“Beowulf. The heroes of the past.” (Godiva)
“They’re as real as you would have them be, Godiva. As real as love or courage or honor or kindness. Though we can’t see these things, they are all that matter.” (Godiva’s mother)
I would have preferred fewer sex scenes and more time with Leofric and Godiva actually getting to know one another by talking. It’s hard to believe they’re “soul mates” and truly in love when they are mostly narrated together only during coupling scenes.
This book did take me a while to read. It has a very interesting beginning, then gets slow in the middle, but it picks up near the end. The terms and references, overall, felt authentic (besides “kaleidoscope”). The landscape was well visualized. The characters were interesting. I think it was the predictable, marriage-bed-based romance that made this less compelling, since I finished 5 other books since I started this one, but it is an interesting read.
“Naked” is a retelling of the legend of Lady Godiva. I enjoyed the way the author fleshed out this legendary tale. Godiva was a courageous and loyal leader who put herself in front of danger to protect her people, including into a battle with Thurkill the Tall’s army, a Dane looking to conquer the Saxon lands after ambushing and murdering Godiva’s parents. I enjoyed the struggles and triumphs of Godiva and the strength she found in her heart bent on serving others.
I had a few issues with the book. The author references a “kaleidoscope.” Is this a proper reference someone in the 11th Century would have used? Additionally, much of the prose is written with short, choppy sentences. At first when Godiva is watching the clothes slip off her before her famous ride, this style works. But as the book went on, it made the storyline feel incomplete. However, there were a few good, lyrical moments. One I liked (I quote from a review copy and should be verified with the original before others quote) was:
“Were they real?” I’d asked, half asleep, my arms twining her neck.
“Were who real, my sweet heart?” (Godiva’s mother)
“Beowulf. The heroes of the past.” (Godiva)
“They’re as real as you would have them be, Godiva. As real as love or courage or honor or kindness. Though we can’t see these things, they are all that matter.” (Godiva’s mother)
I would have preferred fewer sex scenes and more time with Leofric and Godiva actually getting to know one another by talking. It’s hard to believe they’re “soul mates” and truly in love when they are mostly narrated together only during coupling scenes.
This book did take me a while to read. It has a very interesting beginning, then gets slow in the middle, but it picks up near the end. The terms and references, overall, felt authentic (besides “kaleidoscope”). The landscape was well visualized. The characters were interesting. I think it was the predictable, marriage-bed-based romance that made this less compelling, since I finished 5 other books since I started this one, but it is an interesting read.
reading_cat's review against another edition
5.0
Originally posted on Book-o-Craze, on a tour hosted by Goddess Fish Promotions.
What an emotional ride! Both literally and figuratively!
This book is devoted to Lady Godiva, her story and what drove her to carry out her famous naked ride. Of course, some true facts were included in the retelling, but a plot twist was the added element, that made the legend seem a little nicer, in some ways!
I have to admit that I'm not very familiar with the true myth of Lady Godiva's ride. Before reading this book, I only knew about the trivia I had stumbled upon. But, through this emotional retelling I currently feel so sympathetic towards Coventry's Lady, her personality, as it is being described in the book, as well as the decisions she had to make.
Lady Godiva, the narrator of the story, is a strong, independent protagonist, that I was very delighted to read about. I loved the way her thoughts were cited by the author. Especially these flashbacks where she remembered moments from her past, they were seeming so real, and like everything that takes place in a person's mind. Everything so beautifully described! Her joy, her pleasure, her agony, her grief. A well-built heroine, I greatly enjoyed to follow through on her adventures!
Her husband, Leofric, was a mysterious man who inspired so many feelings on the heroine, that made me think for a moment I was feeling all those sentiments myself. At first so closed to himself and to his own thoughts, he would allure Godiva, for sure.
At some point, I thought that even a love triangle would form between the heroine, the brave warrior Leofric and Edmund, her childhood friend, who had already asked for her hand in marriage. Godiva sure seemed attracted to him at first, but the passion was nonexistent until Leofric made his appearance.
After that, the way the heroine's feelings evolved was so wonderfully narrated, making the readers feel the anguish which Lady Godiva felt, whenever the story was taking an unexpected turn. And, that didn't occur rarely in the case of this book. Things were constantly kept interesting with all this background story evolving on its own, hidden until the moment everything became clear.
The author delivered the myth in such a way to make us actually wonder whether the events took place as the legend says, or if there was actually something the lords of Coventry liked to cover, underneath it.
I won't spoil the ride Lady Godiva carried out, and the exact sentiments this event, and the way everyone in the town responded to it, brought on to me. It was a very delicate part of the book, and one where the feelings escalated.
All in all, 5 stars to a beautiful retelling of a greatly emotional ride.
What an emotional ride! Both literally and figuratively!
This book is devoted to Lady Godiva, her story and what drove her to carry out her famous naked ride. Of course, some true facts were included in the retelling, but a plot twist was the added element, that made the legend seem a little nicer, in some ways!
I have to admit that I'm not very familiar with the true myth of Lady Godiva's ride. Before reading this book, I only knew about the trivia I had stumbled upon. But, through this emotional retelling I currently feel so sympathetic towards Coventry's Lady, her personality, as it is being described in the book, as well as the decisions she had to make.
Lady Godiva, the narrator of the story, is a strong, independent protagonist, that I was very delighted to read about. I loved the way her thoughts were cited by the author. Especially these flashbacks where she remembered moments from her past, they were seeming so real, and like everything that takes place in a person's mind. Everything so beautifully described! Her joy, her pleasure, her agony, her grief. A well-built heroine, I greatly enjoyed to follow through on her adventures!
Her husband, Leofric, was a mysterious man who inspired so many feelings on the heroine, that made me think for a moment I was feeling all those sentiments myself. At first so closed to himself and to his own thoughts, he would allure Godiva, for sure.
At some point, I thought that even a love triangle would form between the heroine, the brave warrior Leofric and Edmund, her childhood friend, who had already asked for her hand in marriage. Godiva sure seemed attracted to him at first, but the passion was nonexistent until Leofric made his appearance.
After that, the way the heroine's feelings evolved was so wonderfully narrated, making the readers feel the anguish which Lady Godiva felt, whenever the story was taking an unexpected turn. And, that didn't occur rarely in the case of this book. Things were constantly kept interesting with all this background story evolving on its own, hidden until the moment everything became clear.
The author delivered the myth in such a way to make us actually wonder whether the events took place as the legend says, or if there was actually something the lords of Coventry liked to cover, underneath it.
I won't spoil the ride Lady Godiva carried out, and the exact sentiments this event, and the way everyone in the town responded to it, brought on to me. It was a very delicate part of the book, and one where the feelings escalated.
All in all, 5 stars to a beautiful retelling of a greatly emotional ride.
tanyarobinson's review against another edition
3.0
This fictionalized novel of Lady Godiva's legendary ride through Coventry in exchange for the lifting of taxes was a fun and quick read. Historical sources for this period are extremely sparse, and so little is known of the real Godiva and Leofric. Redgold creates a plausible background for the legend, and incorporates it into a love story between the heroine and her stern earl. I felt that the plot's complications and the lovers' differences were resolved too suddenly and easily, but I still enjoyed the book. 3.5 stars.
pqlibrarian's review against another edition
4.0
This immediately captured my interest and it's a quick read. Lots of action, some steamy scenes (beautifully written). The one thing that plucked my nerves is that sometimes Godiva's horse was a he and sometimes a she - must have been a gelding!