I enjoyed this book, but
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I always want any protagonist whom I like (such as this on) to be left in a position where it looks as if the person will have a happy future that includes that person's children. This protagonist in this book seems to have a happy future, but one in which it does not seem as if children would be likely. Just personal preference.

I don't know if I'll ever get a chance to read this, but this description from Paul Dry Books (in addition to prior experience w/ the author) makes me want to:

As a young man Stephen de Beauville, who was born the day after Christmas in 1309, dreams of becoming a knight-not a promising ambition for a contemplative soul with a talent for drawing. Quiet and solitary, Stephen must endure the bitter torment of his older brothers and cousins until he finds his first true friend; through that friendship he gains courage to endure the lack of kindness in his life. But Stephen's father takes a dim view of his youngest son. Believing that Stephen will never possess the valor to be a knight-his goal for his other sons-the father abruptly sends Stephen away to live the rest of his life in a monastery, thus separating him from his only friend.

After a harsh apprenticeship in the monastery, Stephen realizes he must flee its confines. In a twist of fortune, he becomes squire to a wise knight, and then attains knighthood himself. The death of his own young squire causes the twenty-six-year-old Stephen to look inward. In doing so, he makes an important discovery: He realizes his journey through dangerous times has instilled in him the strength and self-confidence to find his true place in the world. One is One portrays a man ready to heed his mentor's maxims:

"Do not be afraid to do what you want to do."

"Be brave enough to be different."""