Red Adam's Lady (32)

This happens to be my favorite historical novel of all time! I first picked it up in a mass market paperback edition from a drugstore display rack in 1974 in California. I stayed up all night reading it - couldn't put it down - and have since re-read it many times. I've had two copies disappear on me, so if you get your hands on one, guard it with your life!! Kidding... This novel is set in northern England in the late 12th century and is about a girl and young man, both nobles, both descended from the ruling Normans. Though nobly-born, neither of the two main characters - Julitta de Montrigord and Adam de Lorismond - have had easy lives. Both spent their childhoods in poverty and harsh conditions. At the beginning of the story, Julitta is still struggling to endure her hardships and Adam has just recently inherited from a distant cousin. Together they face challenges that include and invading army of Galloway Picts and betrayal from their own ranks. This is one of the best love stories I have ever read. And I've read quite a few. I love it so much and have read it so often, I can quote the first line of the novel from memory: "Within sight of Brentborough village and the castle lowering over it, and five miles from home, the lady's palfrey cast a shoe."