Their Castilian Orphan is a work of fiction by author Anna Belfrage in the historical saga, interpersonal drama, and political thriller subgenres, and is the fourth novel in The Castilian Saga. The work is best suited to adult readers and contains some scenes of medieval battle violence and sex. We find ourselves in 1294 England, where Eustace de Lamont returns from exile with vengeance burning in his heart. He targets Robert FitzStephan and his wife, Noor d’Outremer, while their foster son, Lionel, becomes a pawn in his malicious game. As Eustace's violent tendencies resurface, he also threatens to expose Lionel's true parentage, which could spell disaster for Robert and Noor. With rebellion brewing in Wales, Robert is torn between duty and protecting his family, leaving them vulnerable as he fights on behalf of the king. Meanwhile, Eustace's determination to destroy Robert knows no bounds, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown that could alter the course of their lives forever.

Author Anna Belfrage has crafted a highly engaging work that perfectly balances well-researched historical detail with compelling characters and a suspenseful, slow-burning plot. The intricate dynamics between the characters, especially the manipulative Eustace and the vulnerable Lionel, kept me engaged throughout the story, and I loved the attention to detail in their dialogue inflections and those little tension-filled clues to the trouble brewing beneath the surface. The historical backdrop of 13th-century England added depth and authenticity to the attitudes and activities happening in the story world, transporting me to a tumultuous era filled with political turmoil and personal vendettas with rich authenticity and total immersion. Overall, Their Castilian Orphan is a captivating addition to The Castilian Saga series, offering a thrilling blend of history, drama, and suspense that will leave readers eager for more.

Anna Belfrage returns readers to The Castilian Saga series with the fourth book, Their Castilian Orphan. In the lead-up, His Castilian Hawk introduced us to Robert FitzStephan, loyal to King Edward, who marries Eleanor d’Outremer, known as Noor. Their marriage faces challenges, especially with Noor's Welsh ties and Robert's mistress Edith, as the strife in Wales ensues. The Castilian Pomegranate places Robert and Noor as emissaries of Queen Elinor, sent to retrieve the jeweled Castilian Pomegranate. France's crusade ensnares Robert in Aragon's conflict, and a dual-edged confrontation ignites in Castile. Her Castilian Heart brings in Robert's half-brother, who wants to murder him, and the queen's anger over their refusal to abandon Lionel leaves Noor to save them both. Now, Eustace reemerges from exile, intent on destroying Robert and Noor by way of exposing Lionel's true parentage and threatening the couple. A Welsh rebellion erupts, and both Eustace and Robert are called to confront the rebels, with Noor left alone to battle at home.

Their Castilian Orphan by Anna Belfrage continues with the ongoing plight of Robert and Noor, but what I loved most about this installment is that she really explores identity, loyalty, and belonging. I found this both in Lionel's struggle with his heritage and the unwavering support of those around him, and also with Tilly, who epitomizes the climate of gender roles, class distinctions, and moral judgment. The fact that, as a mother, an ancillary character like Tilly could resonate so deeply is a testament to Belfrage's skill in character development. Belfrage does well in the seamless blending of action and emotion, like an intense ambush scene where Samuel and Lionel demonstrate bravery, but we also see a surprising show from another with a stern and protective admonishment, followed by an affectionate admission. The unity between Noor and Robert is as solid as always, even when an unthinkable loss occurs. There is a full circle moment that had me in tears, and it is a fitting endcap from an author who can make something so sad still feel hopeful. Very highly recommended.