A forbidden marriage. A ruthless king. The true story of a woman who defied them both.
A true story. A forgotten heroine. In a time when women were told to stay silent, could she become the saviour her people need?
12th century England. Nicola de la Haye wants to do her duty. But though she’s taught a female cannot lead alone, the young noblewoman bristles at the marriage her father has arranged to secure her inheritance. And when an unexpected death leaves her unguided, the impetuous girl shuns the king’s blessing and weds a handsome-but-landless knight.
Harshly fined by Henry II for her unsanctioned union, Nicola struggles to salvage her estates while dealing with devastating betrayals from her husband… and his choice to join rebels in a brewing civil war. Yet after averting a tragedy and gaining the castle garrison’s respect, she still must face the might of powerful men determined to crush her under their will.
Can she survive love, threats, and violent ambition to prove she’s worthy of authority?
In this carefully researched and vividly human series debut, Rachel Elwiss Joyce showcases the complex themes of honour, responsibility, and freedom in the story of a remarkable heroine who men tried to erase from history. And as readers dive into a world defined by violence and turmoil, they’ll be stunned by this courageous young woman’s journey toward greatness.
Lady of Lincoln is the gritty first book in the Nicola de la Haye Series historical fiction saga. If you like richly textured female heroes, courtly drama, and fast-paced intrigue, then you’ll adore Rachel Elwiss Joyce’s gripping true-life tale.
"A towering, epic saga… one of the greats in this genre."
- Readers’ Favorite
"A gripping tale of bravery, loyalty, and defiance… richly researched and unforgettable."
- Readers’ Favorite
"Profoundly moving… Nicola de la Haye shines with determination and emotional depth."
- The Coffee Pot Book Club
GOLD MEDAL WINNER, Bronte Award, the Historical Fiction Company
GOLD MEDAL WINNER, Reader's Choice Awards
FINALIST, Chanticleer Chaucer International Book Awards
