An epic relationship tale, spanning one of the most interesting periods in our history. Aubrette grows up as her half-sister Rowena’s companion, her life changes dramatically when Rowena marries. Rowena’s new husband is an illegitimate son of Henry II, Aubrette remains with Rowena throughout her marriage, travelling with her into France and on to the crusades with Richard I. Ann Turner doesn't shy away from the difficulties faced by women during this time, with violence spilling over the pages. Used and abused, Aubrette has a truly difficult life, as Kings come and go, Aubrette finds herself a pawn for the men in power. ‘A Sister’s Crusade’ is a fascinating sometimes uncomfortable, behind the scenes look at history. ~ Liz Robinson
A Sister's Crusade is a story of a wronged heroine set towards the end of the 12th century. Aubrette, raised at Romhill as a companion to the local lord's only daughter Rowena, discovers that she is actually Rowena's half-sister. This revelation comes on the day Rowena meets her future husband, Simon Fitzroy, one of King Henry II's illegitimate sons. Aubrette remains with her now sister, and becomes Rowena's maid after she is married. After a tragic incident, she becomes Simon's secret mistress. The affair is unbeknown to Rowena, until Aubrette discovers she is pregnant. Her son is taken from her at birth for Rowena to raise as her own child. Aubrette, having thought Simon truly loved her, is unwillingly married to Hugh, a companion of Duke Richard and loyal friend to Simon. When the King dies, Richard succeeds him to the throne and he travels with Simon to the Holy Land on a crusade. Aubrette and Rowena accompany Hugh and Simon as attendants to Queen Berengaria, Richard's long-neglected wife. A series of traumatic life changing events follow that result in Simon being sent back to England, but not before he and Aubrette are married in Cyprus. Back at Romhill, Aubrette settles into domesticity and everything appears perfect. But could a threat from an unexpected enemy ruin Aubrette's happiness?
Ann Turner was born in 1955 in Stratford, East London, and moved to Basildon in 1963. Her first book Heartsease was published in 2013. She is fascinated with history, especially the Tudor period.
