What do you think?
Wheel of Fortune
The Earl looked dispassionately at the boy still kneeling by his
uncle’s body. “He bears his family’s shame; he is nothing.” He turned
his back and stood for a moment contemplating the blank face of the sky.
Then he breathed out, a long breath it seemed, held for an eternity. “It
is done,” he said. “Justice is served.”
1469. England is in turmoil. For almost ten years, the charismatic
Edward IV has ruled with the Earl of Warwick’s support, but now
rebellion threatens the fragile peace.
Strong-willed and determined, Isobel Fenton is resolved that nothing
will separate her from her beloved manor of Beaumancote - even if it
means marrying Thomas Lacey.
But Isobel is unaware of the importance she and her land represent, nor
of the agenda of the formidable Earl in whose care she finds herself.
As unrest boils into war Isobel is drawn into the very heart of the
conflict. Can she escape from the web in which she is trapped, and will
she ever find her way home?
‘The best Wars of the Roses book I have ever read.’
Elizabeth Chadwick
‘Thoroughly researched, beguiling prose: I was hooked from page1.’
Toni Mount
‘An absolute masterpiece…it has a distinctly literary quality that is
the stuff of all great novels.’
Julie Frederick
uncle’s body. “He bears his family’s shame; he is nothing.” He turned
his back and stood for a moment contemplating the blank face of the sky.
Then he breathed out, a long breath it seemed, held for an eternity. “It
is done,” he said. “Justice is served.”
1469. England is in turmoil. For almost ten years, the charismatic
Edward IV has ruled with the Earl of Warwick’s support, but now
rebellion threatens the fragile peace.
Strong-willed and determined, Isobel Fenton is resolved that nothing
will separate her from her beloved manor of Beaumancote - even if it
means marrying Thomas Lacey.
But Isobel is unaware of the importance she and her land represent, nor
of the agenda of the formidable Earl in whose care she finds herself.
As unrest boils into war Isobel is drawn into the very heart of the
conflict. Can she escape from the web in which she is trapped, and will
she ever find her way home?
‘The best Wars of the Roses book I have ever read.’
Elizabeth Chadwick
‘Thoroughly researched, beguiling prose: I was hooked from page1.’
Toni Mount
‘An absolute masterpiece…it has a distinctly literary quality that is
the stuff of all great novels.’
Julie Frederick
373 pages, Paperback
Published May 20, 2023
About the author
C.F. Dunn
9 books50 followers Studying history at university, Claire Dunn followed a vocational route founding a specialist school dedicated to the needs of children with Dyslexia, Autism and related language difficulties.
Returning to her academic roots to incorporate elements of history into her stories of romance, mystery and suspense, Claire began writing Mortal Fire - the first in the five-book The Secret Of The Journal series - winning Gold in the ForeWord Book Of The Year Awards, 2012. She now writes full-time in the South-West surrounded by restless seas, ancient landscapes and wild, wide skies.
She is currently working on a major new Wars of the Roses series: The Tarnished Crown.
Book One - Wheel of Fortune (pub. 2023 Resolute Books; revised edition pub. 2025 Sapere Books)
Book Two - Sun Ascendant (pub. 2024 Resolute Books, revised edition 2025 Sapere Books)
Book Three - Degrees of Affinity (pub. 2025 Sapere Books)
Book Four - Legacy of Steel (pub. Sapere Books 2026)
Returning to her academic roots to incorporate elements of history into her stories of romance, mystery and suspense, Claire began writing Mortal Fire - the first in the five-book The Secret Of The Journal series - winning Gold in the ForeWord Book Of The Year Awards, 2012. She now writes full-time in the South-West surrounded by restless seas, ancient landscapes and wild, wide skies.
She is currently working on a major new Wars of the Roses series: The Tarnished Crown.
Book One - Wheel of Fortune (pub. 2023 Resolute Books; revised edition pub. 2025 Sapere Books)
Book Two - Sun Ascendant (pub. 2024 Resolute Books, revised edition 2025 Sapere Books)
Book Three - Degrees of Affinity (pub. 2025 Sapere Books)
Book Four - Legacy of Steel (pub. Sapere Books 2026)
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
May 3, 2024
the writing is good but the pacing was a bit slow for me and i didn’t feel as engaged to the book as i do with others. i guess im not into the historical genre, maybe? it wasn’t in my interest after all. unfortunately the book was a let down to me and i was expecting a whole different ending / outcome.
October 10, 2024
Set in the period of the War of Roses, Wheel of Fortune starts out very strong. There is a mystery surrounding Isobel and her mother's identity. Throughout the book it is hinted that Sir Geoffrey Fenton married a woman who was above him in status and could belong to a family who holds considerable tout in the politics and power games of the time. It's the reason why Isobel finds herself under scrutiny of the Earl of Warwick and after her father's death, living under his protection.
At this point the story begins to drag and I did skip parts because it mostly deals with the personal struggle of Isobel against the Earl who, by forcefully taking her as his lover, has not only left Isobel isolated in his household but has her questioning her identity and future. The book ends at a point that paves way for most of the plot and action to move forward in the second book.
The writing is very good and the author has done her research work very well. She brings this time period of war and power struggle to life with her words. Isobel Fenton could very well be a fictional character so it will be interesting to see how the author merges her character further with the events of the period. The name of the Earl of Warwick is also not revealed in this book but it could probably be Richard Neville who the author is talking about. I am interested in reading the follow up book and hopefully it covers a lot more action and political intrigue. The War of the Roses is a huge period to write a historical fiction around and kudos to the author for attempting it.
I received an e-Arc of the book from the publishers Literally PR Ltd./Resolute Books and the author via NetGalley.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐✨💫
At this point the story begins to drag and I did skip parts because it mostly deals with the personal struggle of Isobel against the Earl who, by forcefully taking her as his lover, has not only left Isobel isolated in his household but has her questioning her identity and future. The book ends at a point that paves way for most of the plot and action to move forward in the second book.
The writing is very good and the author has done her research work very well. She brings this time period of war and power struggle to life with her words. Isobel Fenton could very well be a fictional character so it will be interesting to see how the author merges her character further with the events of the period. The name of the Earl of Warwick is also not revealed in this book but it could probably be Richard Neville who the author is talking about. I am interested in reading the follow up book and hopefully it covers a lot more action and political intrigue. The War of the Roses is a huge period to write a historical fiction around and kudos to the author for attempting it.
I received an e-Arc of the book from the publishers Literally PR Ltd./Resolute Books and the author via NetGalley.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐✨💫
August 9, 2023
A young Isobel Fenton comes face to face with the brutal reality of the Wars of the Roses when two Lancasterian rebels are hunted down and brought to her father’s manor by the Earl. Her father, Sir Geoffrey Fenton identifies one of the two as Ralph Lacey, the man who, at Sandal Castle, killed the Earl’s father. The Earl orders the beheading of both rebels, but when Sir Geoffrey intercedes, he allows the other, Lacey’s young nephew Thomas, to live after he swears fealty to King Edward IV.
Now, four years later, in the spring of 1469, Isobel is living contentedly with her father at Beaumancote manor, attended by a beloved servant, the mute Buena. She has taken over her late mother’s role in overseeing the gardens, becoming quite expert in the use of herbs. Her father has taught her Latin and she enjoys many an hour either reading to him or hearing him expound on matters of politics, honor and loyalty to one’s king. An old warrior, having lost an eye and the use of a leg at Sandal Castle, Sir Geoffrey is a kind and thoughtful man. His justification for withdrawing his loyalty from King Henry VI and supporting the Duke of York’s claim is succinct and compelling—as good as I have read. He describes the bonds of fealty his servants owe him, and which he, in turn, owes the Earl, and King Edward. In return, they owe a duty to protect those who have sworn loyalty to them. King Henry was no longer fit to rule because he was weak and unable to protect his people and ensure peace within his kingdom.
Thomas Lacey has been courting Isobel, and eager to wed her as their families had long planned. He is smitten with her for certain, but he is also ambitious and sees nothing wrong in using her father’s name and status as the King’s officer for collection of fines and duties to acquire a small bit of ribbon for Isobel from a consignment reserved for the Queen. Sir Geoffrey believes that the Laceys will remain loyal to King Edward because they will gain lands with the match—lands they once owned but had been awarded by King Edward to Sir Geoffrey for his service. Cool to the whole idea, Isobel wants to put off any marriage until she turns eighteen, as her mother had wanted. Her father, however, explains to Isobel that the marriage is in her best interests because, in the event of his death, he has no male heir or other male relative to protect and guide her. She must have a husband of status with prospects of advancement and Sir Geoffrey wants her settled before his death. Otherwise, he tells her, “I cannot face it without knowing you have a position of standing.” Michaelmas, September 29 is set as the marriage date, but Thomas is going to spend the intervening months in Calais. Sensing that he will die before Isobel can be married, Sir Geoffrey begs the Earl to protect her and see her safely married in the event of his death, reminding the Earl that he owes him a favor. The Earl explodes in anger when he learns that Thomas Lacey is the prospective bridegroom, but he gives his word.
By late August Sir Geoffrey is dead and Isobel is sent to the Earl’s castle. There, she will soon learn some hard truths—the vulnerability and powerlessness of a woman without a male protector. First, her standing as the daughter of a noble lady and a knight is ignored and she is treated as servant in the nursery of the Earl’s two younger daughters, the prepubescent Meg and the much younger Cecily, a holy terror if there ever was one. Then, she is robbed of her innocence when the Earl takes notice of her and becomes so obsessed that he rapes her.
Isobel just wants to return home, marry Thomas and be the lady of the manor, taking care of her people. The Earl will not allow her marriage to Thomas, of course, but he will not allow her to marry anyone. He installs her as his mistress in a tower chamber next to his, attended by the crone Ursula, because she has been shunned by every other castle inhabitant, even Meg and the Earl’s younger brother, Robert, who has been somewhat sympathetic to her plight . She now has standing, the exalted position of the Earl’s mistress, as she bitterly remarks.
One reason—but not the only one—that the Earl does not allow Isobel’s marriage to Thomas is that he suspects (rightly) that the latter is in league with the Earl of Warwick and the King’s brother, the Duke of Clarence, in rebellion against the king. To draw Thomas out, he orders Isobel to write a letter to him and, in a deeply symbolic act the morning after the rape, he demands that she deliver her father’s seal to him to affix to the letter. He then sends Isobel, guarded by Robert, back to her estate to spring the trap. When things go awry, he comes to their rescue proving he is a good lord, ensuring Isobel’s safety and governing her estates. A good lord, but not a husband whom she will never have.
So much more happens to Isobel than I cannot possibly describe it all here, ending on a knife’s edge . In any case a simple plot synopsis cannot do justice to this novel: it is excellently written with powerful dramatic scenes and characters who are vividly brought to life, ranging from the spiteful Joan, Isobel’s fellow nursery maid to the ugly duckling Meg. I even came to feel a small modicum of sympathy for one of the more unlikeable characters, the haughty Countess. There are no long boring history lessons here; the characters live the events. Ricardians will enjoy Isobel’s encounters with the young Richard, Duke of Gloucester, whom she describes as “clever, funny —kind when he had no need to be.”
With a less talented author, Isobel’s story would have become a banal historical romance. Certainly, it has some elements common to that genre: a spirited heroine who seems to draw men to her like flies are drawn to honey, and a troubled man whose past may hold some dark secrets. Isobel is no Mary Sue, if for no other reason than the fortitude with which she confronts her degraded status. “I am nothing” she tells the Earl,”I am no man’s daughter, sister, wife, mother . . . . What I had my—my estates, my servants, my . . . virtue—you have taken from me, and I am left with nothing.” She fears that she will eventually become invisible—like the crone Ursula.
As for the Earl, time and circumstances have made him a hard and unforgiving man. Was it the death of his son and heir, the killing of his father, or something else that forged his iron exterior? Sir Geoffrey hints that a tale—one better left untold—may hold the answer. And, yes, he does care for Isobel and will keep her safe and manage her estates, as a good lord should. But he doesn’t quite understand why that is not enough for her nor why she doesn’t seem to need him, because he needs her—he needs her very much. He sees himself as her prisoner who can only be freed from her spell by death. As he tells brother, “When has woman ever been without fault since Eve beguiled Adam and sowed the seed of our downfall.? When is any woman truly innocent? They deceive us all, knowingly or unwittingly, Rob; they are a trap into which we must fall.”
This is the first in a series so we can anticipate some revelations in future volumes. The untold tale about the Earl may be told, and questions answered about his connections with Isobel’s mother and the reason why the attendant Buena fears to show herself to him. We may even learn his given name. Complicating things further is the love that has grown between Isobel and Robert. (Incidentally, Robert has sworn allegiance to the young Richard, Duke of Gloucester, which must mean one thing—that Rob is a good guy.) We also know that the wheel of fortune will soon turn against the Yorkists so there is much to look forward to in upcoming novels.
This is a brilliant work that weaves together the politics of the time with Isobel’s personal drama to create a rich tapestry. If you have any interest in historical fiction, do yourself a favor and read it.
Now, four years later, in the spring of 1469, Isobel is living contentedly with her father at Beaumancote manor, attended by a beloved servant, the mute Buena. She has taken over her late mother’s role in overseeing the gardens, becoming quite expert in the use of herbs. Her father has taught her Latin and she enjoys many an hour either reading to him or hearing him expound on matters of politics, honor and loyalty to one’s king. An old warrior, having lost an eye and the use of a leg at Sandal Castle, Sir Geoffrey is a kind and thoughtful man. His justification for withdrawing his loyalty from King Henry VI and supporting the Duke of York’s claim is succinct and compelling—as good as I have read. He describes the bonds of fealty his servants owe him, and which he, in turn, owes the Earl, and King Edward. In return, they owe a duty to protect those who have sworn loyalty to them. King Henry was no longer fit to rule because he was weak and unable to protect his people and ensure peace within his kingdom.
Thomas Lacey has been courting Isobel, and eager to wed her as their families had long planned. He is smitten with her for certain, but he is also ambitious and sees nothing wrong in using her father’s name and status as the King’s officer for collection of fines and duties to acquire a small bit of ribbon for Isobel from a consignment reserved for the Queen. Sir Geoffrey believes that the Laceys will remain loyal to King Edward because they will gain lands with the match—lands they once owned but had been awarded by King Edward to Sir Geoffrey for his service. Cool to the whole idea, Isobel wants to put off any marriage until she turns eighteen, as her mother had wanted. Her father, however, explains to Isobel that the marriage is in her best interests because, in the event of his death, he has no male heir or other male relative to protect and guide her. She must have a husband of status with prospects of advancement and Sir Geoffrey wants her settled before his death. Otherwise, he tells her, “I cannot face it without knowing you have a position of standing.” Michaelmas, September 29 is set as the marriage date, but Thomas is going to spend the intervening months in Calais. Sensing that he will die before Isobel can be married, Sir Geoffrey begs the Earl to protect her and see her safely married in the event of his death, reminding the Earl that he owes him a favor. The Earl explodes in anger when he learns that Thomas Lacey is the prospective bridegroom, but he gives his word.
By late August Sir Geoffrey is dead and Isobel is sent to the Earl’s castle. There, she will soon learn some hard truths—the vulnerability and powerlessness of a woman without a male protector. First, her standing as the daughter of a noble lady and a knight is ignored and she is treated as servant in the nursery of the Earl’s two younger daughters, the prepubescent Meg and the much younger Cecily, a holy terror if there ever was one. Then, she is robbed of her innocence when the Earl takes notice of her and becomes so obsessed that he rapes her.
Isobel just wants to return home, marry Thomas and be the lady of the manor, taking care of her people. The Earl will not allow her marriage to Thomas, of course, but he will not allow her to marry anyone. He installs her as his mistress in a tower chamber next to his, attended by the crone Ursula, because she has been shunned by every other castle inhabitant, even Meg and the Earl’s younger brother, Robert, who has been somewhat sympathetic to her plight . She now has standing, the exalted position of the Earl’s mistress, as she bitterly remarks.
One reason—but not the only one—that the Earl does not allow Isobel’s marriage to Thomas is that he suspects (rightly) that the latter is in league with the Earl of Warwick and the King’s brother, the Duke of Clarence, in rebellion against the king. To draw Thomas out, he orders Isobel to write a letter to him and, in a deeply symbolic act the morning after the rape, he demands that she deliver her father’s seal to him to affix to the letter. He then sends Isobel, guarded by Robert, back to her estate to spring the trap. When things go awry, he comes to their rescue proving he is a good lord, ensuring Isobel’s safety and governing her estates. A good lord, but not a husband whom she will never have.
So much more happens to Isobel than I cannot possibly describe it all here, ending on a knife’s edge . In any case a simple plot synopsis cannot do justice to this novel: it is excellently written with powerful dramatic scenes and characters who are vividly brought to life, ranging from the spiteful Joan, Isobel’s fellow nursery maid to the ugly duckling Meg. I even came to feel a small modicum of sympathy for one of the more unlikeable characters, the haughty Countess. There are no long boring history lessons here; the characters live the events. Ricardians will enjoy Isobel’s encounters with the young Richard, Duke of Gloucester, whom she describes as “clever, funny —kind when he had no need to be.”
With a less talented author, Isobel’s story would have become a banal historical romance. Certainly, it has some elements common to that genre: a spirited heroine who seems to draw men to her like flies are drawn to honey, and a troubled man whose past may hold some dark secrets. Isobel is no Mary Sue, if for no other reason than the fortitude with which she confronts her degraded status. “I am nothing” she tells the Earl,”I am no man’s daughter, sister, wife, mother . . . . What I had my—my estates, my servants, my . . . virtue—you have taken from me, and I am left with nothing.” She fears that she will eventually become invisible—like the crone Ursula.
As for the Earl, time and circumstances have made him a hard and unforgiving man. Was it the death of his son and heir, the killing of his father, or something else that forged his iron exterior? Sir Geoffrey hints that a tale—one better left untold—may hold the answer. And, yes, he does care for Isobel and will keep her safe and manage her estates, as a good lord should. But he doesn’t quite understand why that is not enough for her nor why she doesn’t seem to need him, because he needs her—he needs her very much. He sees himself as her prisoner who can only be freed from her spell by death. As he tells brother, “When has woman ever been without fault since Eve beguiled Adam and sowed the seed of our downfall.? When is any woman truly innocent? They deceive us all, knowingly or unwittingly, Rob; they are a trap into which we must fall.”
This is the first in a series so we can anticipate some revelations in future volumes. The untold tale about the Earl may be told, and questions answered about his connections with Isobel’s mother and the reason why the attendant Buena fears to show herself to him. We may even learn his given name. Complicating things further is the love that has grown between Isobel and Robert. (Incidentally, Robert has sworn allegiance to the young Richard, Duke of Gloucester, which must mean one thing—that Rob is a good guy.) We also know that the wheel of fortune will soon turn against the Yorkists so there is much to look forward to in upcoming novels.
This is a brilliant work that weaves together the politics of the time with Isobel’s personal drama to create a rich tapestry. If you have any interest in historical fiction, do yourself a favor and read it.
June 17, 2024
1465 England
It’s a time when British King’s are uncertain, gathering together loyal troops. King Edward IV of York is besieged on all sides. The War of the Roses is nigh. The story is a veritable who’s who.
Lady Isabel Fenton is the daughter of Geoffrey Fenton. She’s promised to Thomas Lacey. The Lacey family is a whirlpool of misdirection and underhandedness. Fenton owes his allegiance to the Langton Earl who in turn serves Edward, and the Lacey’s??
An independent young woman Isobel has been tutored in French and Latin. She can read and write.
She’s sent by her father to the Earl to be in his guardianship until Thomas Lacey returns from France.
There’s a secret surrounding Isobel’s mother. The Earl sees her and it seems remembers someone. Basically he rapes her and takes her for his mistress.
Isabel through no fault of hers earns the Earl’s wife and Countess Felice’s enmity.
Isobel has feelings for the Earl’s brother Robert Langdon. He’s been widowed and mourns his wife.
The story brings home how women for the most part were and in some cases still are owned and bartered for power.
These women only had their wits to survive. A comely face doesn’t mean anything unless a strong family is behind them. This is the top echelons of society at that time. Below that all else is moot.
I was gripped by Isobel’s betrayal by the man her father had called Lord. Every moment of the story is packed with emotion.
A Literally PR ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
It’s a time when British King’s are uncertain, gathering together loyal troops. King Edward IV of York is besieged on all sides. The War of the Roses is nigh. The story is a veritable who’s who.
Lady Isabel Fenton is the daughter of Geoffrey Fenton. She’s promised to Thomas Lacey. The Lacey family is a whirlpool of misdirection and underhandedness. Fenton owes his allegiance to the Langton Earl who in turn serves Edward, and the Lacey’s??
An independent young woman Isobel has been tutored in French and Latin. She can read and write.
She’s sent by her father to the Earl to be in his guardianship until Thomas Lacey returns from France.
There’s a secret surrounding Isobel’s mother. The Earl sees her and it seems remembers someone. Basically he rapes her and takes her for his mistress.
Isabel through no fault of hers earns the Earl’s wife and Countess Felice’s enmity.
Isobel has feelings for the Earl’s brother Robert Langdon. He’s been widowed and mourns his wife.
The story brings home how women for the most part were and in some cases still are owned and bartered for power.
These women only had their wits to survive. A comely face doesn’t mean anything unless a strong family is behind them. This is the top echelons of society at that time. Below that all else is moot.
I was gripped by Isobel’s betrayal by the man her father had called Lord. Every moment of the story is packed with emotion.
A Literally PR ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
August 2, 2023
Wheel of Fortune takes us back to the late 1400s. We see these turbulent times through the eyes of the intelligent and engaging Isobel Fenton, whose fate and fortunes are very much at the mercy of the powerful men around her. As the story progresses, alliances shift and change, and you swiftly get a sense of the complexities - and brutality - of the period. Not only that, it really brings home the precariousness of Isobel’s position (and indeed, unfairness of it, to modern eyes).
This richly detailed portrayal of the times showcases Dunn’s impeccable research; her clear love for the subject shines through every paragraph. Her lyrical prose draws you into every detail of Isobel’s world, so you smell, taste and feel it with her. Each character is so well-drawn, they’re flesh and blood, not just words on a page; their actions weave together into a plot which pulls you along, itching to find out what happens next.
The novel builds to a gripping conclusion that’s left me on the edge of my seat, eagerly awaiting book 2!
This richly detailed portrayal of the times showcases Dunn’s impeccable research; her clear love for the subject shines through every paragraph. Her lyrical prose draws you into every detail of Isobel’s world, so you smell, taste and feel it with her. Each character is so well-drawn, they’re flesh and blood, not just words on a page; their actions weave together into a plot which pulls you along, itching to find out what happens next.
The novel builds to a gripping conclusion that’s left me on the edge of my seat, eagerly awaiting book 2!
March 9, 2024
The Wheel of Fortune by CF Dunn is the first of a new series called The Tarnished Crown. The Wheel of Fortune is set in the 15th century during the War of the Roses, it follows the story of Isabel Fenton.
Everything that I liked about this book happened in the first 15 chapters. Once I got to the 15th chapter I almost did not finish, but since I promised to read and review this book I skimmed through the rest. While this book does well as a Historical Fictional adaptation of the War of the Roses, the reason I picked it up is because it was described as a romance/love story. There is little aspect of love in this book, at most a budding crush that is completely out of the question due to Isobel's unfortunate position.
This is not a love story. This is the story of a woman who was abducted, raped, and held prisoner. It's confusing and shocking to me that this book did not have any triggers, warnings, or a better description that this entire story hinges upon a woman forced to become a sex slave.
The fact that this book has been labeled a story of love/romance is disgusting, unethical, and the antithesis of all mentalities of equality, human rights, and feminism. The idea that the author thought readers should or could mistake this for love/romance is disturbing.
Instead, this book is about betrayal and treachery.
The Earl is a man who constantly takes advantage, while it is unfortunately historically accurate that The Earl has no repercussions for his actions, it does not make them any less vile and displeasing to read.
To add salt to the wound, your heart breaks for Isobel since you can see something is happening between her and , but as I said before because of The Earl's position, neither Isobel nor can defend, protect, or voice their worries/fears/anger and concern, or demand justice. is then forced to become an accomplice to crimes.
Everything that I liked about this book happened in the first 15 chapters. Once I got to the 15th chapter I almost did not finish, but since I promised to read and review this book I skimmed through the rest. While this book does well as a Historical Fictional adaptation of the War of the Roses, the reason I picked it up is because it was described as a romance/love story. There is little aspect of love in this book, at most a budding crush that is completely out of the question due to Isobel's unfortunate position.
This is not a love story. This is the story of a woman who was abducted, raped, and held prisoner. It's confusing and shocking to me that this book did not have any triggers, warnings, or a better description that this entire story hinges upon a woman forced to become a sex slave.
The fact that this book has been labeled a story of love/romance is disgusting, unethical, and the antithesis of all mentalities of equality, human rights, and feminism. The idea that the author thought readers should or could mistake this for love/romance is disturbing.
Instead, this book is about betrayal and treachery.
The Earl is a man who constantly takes advantage, while it is unfortunately historically accurate that The Earl has no repercussions for his actions, it does not make them any less vile and displeasing to read.
To add salt to the wound, your heart breaks for Isobel since you can see something is happening between her and , but as I said before because of The Earl's position, neither Isobel nor can defend, protect, or voice their worries/fears/anger and concern, or demand justice. is then forced to become an accomplice to crimes.
June 21, 2024
What a gripping historical fiction! I am so glad I have book 2 ready because that cliffhanger at the end had me in such suspense! In addition, I'm not a romance reader usually, but in this novel it serves a purpose and I think it is accurate for that period.
We follow the story of Isobel, an orphan, now in charge of a strategically located manor that will be the ruin of her, caught in the midst of political issues and the historical period of the War of the Roses.
I loved the accuracy and detail of both the language and descriptions which captivated my attention throughout the whole book, as well as the emotions that surfaced whilst following the events of all the female characters in this novel.
Although they don't have the same freedom as their male counterparts, and their fate is sealed since their birth, all the women in this book are strong willed and try to voice their feelings, even if nothing comes out of it. This is another aspect of the book I appreciated as it makes the characters multidimensional and more real.
I greatly enjoyed this first installment of The Tarnished Crown series and most of all because of Isobel! She's as fierce, proud and pure as much as is vulnerable and impotent due to her circumstances.
If you love historical fiction then this is a must read!
Thanks to the author and Literally PR for a copy and this is my honest opinion.
We follow the story of Isobel, an orphan, now in charge of a strategically located manor that will be the ruin of her, caught in the midst of political issues and the historical period of the War of the Roses.
I loved the accuracy and detail of both the language and descriptions which captivated my attention throughout the whole book, as well as the emotions that surfaced whilst following the events of all the female characters in this novel.
Although they don't have the same freedom as their male counterparts, and their fate is sealed since their birth, all the women in this book are strong willed and try to voice their feelings, even if nothing comes out of it. This is another aspect of the book I appreciated as it makes the characters multidimensional and more real.
I greatly enjoyed this first installment of The Tarnished Crown series and most of all because of Isobel! She's as fierce, proud and pure as much as is vulnerable and impotent due to her circumstances.
If you love historical fiction then this is a must read!
Thanks to the author and Literally PR for a copy and this is my honest opinion.
March 16, 2025
Probably would have given this a four if only the pacing had been a little better. I had to drag myself through parts but I really enjoyed the attention to detail. Isobel was a likeable if naive character. The ending was pleasing in that it was not predictable however it felt like there was no ending as such, more a set up for book two.
April 5, 2024
I love historical fiction novels and have read many War of the Roses novels do I was pleased to be granted an advanced copy of this first in a series.
Sadly I found the novel was not as I expected, there was little of the Royal wars and conflict and more of the conflict between Earl Langton and Isobel Fenton.
Although I liked the authors style of writing sadly the story lacked for me.
Sadly I found the novel was not as I expected, there was little of the Royal wars and conflict and more of the conflict between Earl Langton and Isobel Fenton.
Although I liked the authors style of writing sadly the story lacked for me.
July 15, 2023
This was the first of this author's books I have read, based on the recommendation on the cover from Elizabeth Chadwick, an author I like.
I am so glad I gave this a go, it was brilliant! Very disappointed that I read it when it was published as I now have to wait for a sequel!
The story followed Isobel Fenton, with an engaging narrative which ensured you need to find out what will happen next. Isobel's shocks will shock the reader, and her pain will resonate with you too. The descriptions in the book are vivid, particularly of Isobel's love of nature.
Please don't take too long to write the sequel CF Dunn!!
I am so glad I gave this a go, it was brilliant! Very disappointed that I read it when it was published as I now have to wait for a sequel!
The story followed Isobel Fenton, with an engaging narrative which ensured you need to find out what will happen next. Isobel's shocks will shock the reader, and her pain will resonate with you too. The descriptions in the book are vivid, particularly of Isobel's love of nature.
Please don't take too long to write the sequel CF Dunn!!
December 16, 2023
This book was really thoughtfully written and I enjoyed the world that was created by the author. You can really get the feel of the time period because the author is so well versed in this time period. Having said that I really wanted to love this book, but it just didn't quite hit the mark for me. I felt that it was disjointed and I never really got to learn the full story. There are things that th Earl kept alluding to that didn't get explored. If this is a first book of a series it definitely ends with you wanting to know more. It is definitely more if a history niche book tailored to an audience that already knows the War of the Roses.
August 19, 2023
An interesting take on the War of the Roses from someone other than a royal. The characters were well developed and the scenic descriptions were spot on. I especially enjoyed the descriptions of the gardens. Isobel is a strong character but the book certainly shows how women were manipulated and repressed at that time. I am looking forward to reading more of The Tarnished Crown series. Very highly recommended!
May 28, 2023
At the time (1455-1485) the 'Wars of the Roses' were known as 'the Cousins’ Wars' and included some of the bloodiest battles ever fought on English soil (such as the Battle of Towton). It’s so easy for us nowadays to trivialise the narrative of how Richard Neville, 16th Earl of Warwick ‘the Kingmaker’ deposed one king (Henry VI), put another on the throne (Edward IV), later deposed him and put the first one back again, then finally met his fate in battle at the hands of Edward. It sounds farcical. At the time, it would have felt complex, intractable, desperate and terrifying for many, from the highest to the lowest in society: just as we now feel about the many challenging issues that face us, nationally and globally, in 2023.
Right through from the first recognition that Henry VI’s weakness threatened the national interest, up until the victory of Henry VII over Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth Field, and the union of Yorkist and Lancastrian sides in the new Tudor dynasty, these were unstable and frightening times, full of anger and betrayal.
If you love Alison Weir, Hilary Mantel, and Philippa Gregory you are going to be enthralled by this series. The Wheel of Fortune by CF Dunn was published by Resolute Books on 20 May 2023.
I have during the course of my own research in Warwick for my forthcoming book A-Z of Warwick gathered quite a bit of knowledge of these Wars, and of the main players in the conflict. Historical fiction at its best can crack open the dry shell of ‘schooldays history’ and invite us in to share the hopes and fears, passions and motivations of those who lived in the middle of those turbulent times.
CF Dunn has done a magnificent job with this novel; I absolutely felt I was there, on the side of her main protagonist, 17-year-old Isobel Fenton, and I could imagine every scene in the castle of the treacherous Earl where she is being held supposedly ‘under his protection’. For Isobel, it seems her destiny is utterly in the hands of political game-makers; her personal happiness, marriage prospects, free will and choices, her identity and inheritance. I could feel the insidious menace building up, as the nobles start to suspect and make plans against those who are changing sides and about to become a deadly threat.
I learned so many new things in this book, and among them, I loved the vivid portrayal of life as a nursery maid to the self indulgent children of the Earl and Countess. The depth of research undertaken by this author shines out from so many details we may never have fully appreciated: how they washed; what they used as soap; how they made up healing ointments and creams; what they brushed their teeth with, the perils of the privy in the eyes of a young child, what they wore and ate, and a host of other small but incredibly telling details about life and power balances in the castle.
Along with that, I was very aware of how people of the time would have perceived and talked about the massive political events: the terms they would have used of Henry VI and Edward IV and their wives such as ‘The King’ and ‘the old king’ and ‘the old queen’, and Henry VI’s formidable wife Margaret referred to (probably with a fine blend of respect, fear and feigned contempt) as ‘Anjou’.
The author gives us an intriguing insight into her working method as she says, I approach all my writing projects in a similar way: I know the beginning, middle and end and the major plot points before I start writing. However, then I step back and give a freer rein to the characters to interact and develop, which in turn influences the plot, adds depth and colour, and often takes the book down paths I hadn’t anticipated at the beginning.
CF Dunn’s strong, hard-hitting narrative is also often intensely lyrical and poetic. I found every aspect of this novel utterly compelling. The author is currently writing book 5 in this series, and I can’t wait to read book 2!
Right through from the first recognition that Henry VI’s weakness threatened the national interest, up until the victory of Henry VII over Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth Field, and the union of Yorkist and Lancastrian sides in the new Tudor dynasty, these were unstable and frightening times, full of anger and betrayal.
If you love Alison Weir, Hilary Mantel, and Philippa Gregory you are going to be enthralled by this series. The Wheel of Fortune by CF Dunn was published by Resolute Books on 20 May 2023.
I have during the course of my own research in Warwick for my forthcoming book A-Z of Warwick gathered quite a bit of knowledge of these Wars, and of the main players in the conflict. Historical fiction at its best can crack open the dry shell of ‘schooldays history’ and invite us in to share the hopes and fears, passions and motivations of those who lived in the middle of those turbulent times.
CF Dunn has done a magnificent job with this novel; I absolutely felt I was there, on the side of her main protagonist, 17-year-old Isobel Fenton, and I could imagine every scene in the castle of the treacherous Earl where she is being held supposedly ‘under his protection’. For Isobel, it seems her destiny is utterly in the hands of political game-makers; her personal happiness, marriage prospects, free will and choices, her identity and inheritance. I could feel the insidious menace building up, as the nobles start to suspect and make plans against those who are changing sides and about to become a deadly threat.
I learned so many new things in this book, and among them, I loved the vivid portrayal of life as a nursery maid to the self indulgent children of the Earl and Countess. The depth of research undertaken by this author shines out from so many details we may never have fully appreciated: how they washed; what they used as soap; how they made up healing ointments and creams; what they brushed their teeth with, the perils of the privy in the eyes of a young child, what they wore and ate, and a host of other small but incredibly telling details about life and power balances in the castle.
Along with that, I was very aware of how people of the time would have perceived and talked about the massive political events: the terms they would have used of Henry VI and Edward IV and their wives such as ‘The King’ and ‘the old king’ and ‘the old queen’, and Henry VI’s formidable wife Margaret referred to (probably with a fine blend of respect, fear and feigned contempt) as ‘Anjou’.
The author gives us an intriguing insight into her working method as she says, I approach all my writing projects in a similar way: I know the beginning, middle and end and the major plot points before I start writing. However, then I step back and give a freer rein to the characters to interact and develop, which in turn influences the plot, adds depth and colour, and often takes the book down paths I hadn’t anticipated at the beginning.
CF Dunn’s strong, hard-hitting narrative is also often intensely lyrical and poetic. I found every aspect of this novel utterly compelling. The author is currently writing book 5 in this series, and I can’t wait to read book 2!
December 9, 2023
I recently read "Wheel of Fortune: The Tarnished Crown" by C.F. Dunn, a historical fantasy book set in England in the 1400s during the turbulent Wars of the Roses. In some ways, the book lived up to its promise of being intense and engaging, but in other ways, it left me with mixed feelings.
The author's careful study into history is one of the things that makes the book stand out. It is Dunn's skill that makes the political and social scene in England in 1469 come alive. The attention to detail is great; it makes the world seem real and takes readers to a time of love, loyalty, and betrayal.
But my trip through the pages of "Wheel of Fortune" wasn't easy. The pace was the main problem. It took a while for the story to pick up speed, and I didn't really get into it until about a third of the way through. The slow start made me wonder if I should keep going. If I hadn't been committed to writing a review, I might have given up on the book after that thought.
The finish was another thing that stuck out. I like how a series is set up, but I really wanted a conclusion, even if it was just for a side story. A good ending to at least one thread would have given us a feeling of closure and made room for new experiences. Instead, the story felt a little unfinished because there wasn't a clear ending. It was like a big part of the book was setting up the series instead of significantly adding to the plot.
As someone who likes historical literature, especially about the Wars of the Roses, I couldn't help but feel a little let down. There was some of the excitement and mystery that the idea promised, but it was often overwhelmed by what felt like fluff to set the stage for future parts.
In the end, "Wheel of Fortune" is a book that does a great job of staying true to history but falls short when it comes to pace and ending. Fans of the genre and people who are ready to commit to a series might like it, but I wanted a more exciting story that wasn't so dependent on what would happen in the next book. The fact that I gave it 3 stars shows that this historical fiction story has both good and bad points.
The author's careful study into history is one of the things that makes the book stand out. It is Dunn's skill that makes the political and social scene in England in 1469 come alive. The attention to detail is great; it makes the world seem real and takes readers to a time of love, loyalty, and betrayal.
But my trip through the pages of "Wheel of Fortune" wasn't easy. The pace was the main problem. It took a while for the story to pick up speed, and I didn't really get into it until about a third of the way through. The slow start made me wonder if I should keep going. If I hadn't been committed to writing a review, I might have given up on the book after that thought.
The finish was another thing that stuck out. I like how a series is set up, but I really wanted a conclusion, even if it was just for a side story. A good ending to at least one thread would have given us a feeling of closure and made room for new experiences. Instead, the story felt a little unfinished because there wasn't a clear ending. It was like a big part of the book was setting up the series instead of significantly adding to the plot.
As someone who likes historical literature, especially about the Wars of the Roses, I couldn't help but feel a little let down. There was some of the excitement and mystery that the idea promised, but it was often overwhelmed by what felt like fluff to set the stage for future parts.
In the end, "Wheel of Fortune" is a book that does a great job of staying true to history but falls short when it comes to pace and ending. Fans of the genre and people who are ready to commit to a series might like it, but I wanted a more exciting story that wasn't so dependent on what would happen in the next book. The fact that I gave it 3 stars shows that this historical fiction story has both good and bad points.
June 16, 2024
❤️🏵️𝔹𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕊𝕡𝕠𝕥𝕝𝕚𝕘𝕙𝕥🏵️🤍
𝑾𝒉𝒆𝒆𝒍 𝒐𝒇 𝑭𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒖𝒏𝒆 𝒃𝒚 𝑪.𝑭. 𝑫𝒖𝒏𝒏 (𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌 1 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑻𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒆𝒅 𝑪𝒓𝒐𝒘𝒏 𝑺𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I am a lover of historical fiction and that of the War of the Roses era is undoubtedly one of my favourites. So, of course, I jumped at the chance to be involved in the Book Tour for book 1 and 2 of C.F. Dunn's Tarnished Crown Series and I am delighted to say Book 1 more than lived up to my high expectations.
Quickly drawn in by Dunn's Enchanting prose, I was transported to 1469 and felt as though I were amongst the cast of richly described (some of them utterly abhorrent, ahem Joan!) characters. Dunn's passion for meticulous research is evident throughout and I remained as if there for the duration of the book and could not be more thrilled, an enigmatic period of time I have forever been fascinated with.
Whilst the characters and plot are largely works of Dunn's imagination, it is delivered in such a way it could be mistaken as if from historical fact and made for a compelling read. I became extremely fond of our protagonist, Isobel Fenton, immediately. A young, kind-hearted, strong-willed, woman who, after the tragic loss of both her parents, finds herself in circumstances beyond her control. Isobel is put through unforgivable acts at the hands of a despicable man in power and yet she doesn't entirely lose her spirit to fight for what she believes in.
The subject matter is heavy at points (trigger warnings for sexual assault and more) and my heart broke for Isobel many times, but there are moments of joy also - I particularly adored seeing how her relationship with young, mistreated, Cecily (and Nan!) developed to one with trust and affection.
Expertly written, a richly detailed and accurate potrayal of this turbulent time in history, Wheel of Fortune is nothing short of a masterpiece and I highly recommend reading for fellow historical fiction fans.
With a dramatic cliff hanger of an ending, I am excited to begin book 2 to see what is to come next and wonder if we may come to learn more about Isobel's beloved mute servant Buena - amongst other things.
𝑾𝒉𝒆𝒆𝒍 𝒐𝒇 𝑭𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒖𝒏𝒆 𝒃𝒚 𝑪.𝑭. 𝑫𝒖𝒏𝒏 (𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌 1 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑻𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒆𝒅 𝑪𝒓𝒐𝒘𝒏 𝑺𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I am a lover of historical fiction and that of the War of the Roses era is undoubtedly one of my favourites. So, of course, I jumped at the chance to be involved in the Book Tour for book 1 and 2 of C.F. Dunn's Tarnished Crown Series and I am delighted to say Book 1 more than lived up to my high expectations.
Quickly drawn in by Dunn's Enchanting prose, I was transported to 1469 and felt as though I were amongst the cast of richly described (some of them utterly abhorrent, ahem Joan!) characters. Dunn's passion for meticulous research is evident throughout and I remained as if there for the duration of the book and could not be more thrilled, an enigmatic period of time I have forever been fascinated with.
Whilst the characters and plot are largely works of Dunn's imagination, it is delivered in such a way it could be mistaken as if from historical fact and made for a compelling read. I became extremely fond of our protagonist, Isobel Fenton, immediately. A young, kind-hearted, strong-willed, woman who, after the tragic loss of both her parents, finds herself in circumstances beyond her control. Isobel is put through unforgivable acts at the hands of a despicable man in power and yet she doesn't entirely lose her spirit to fight for what she believes in.
The subject matter is heavy at points (trigger warnings for sexual assault and more) and my heart broke for Isobel many times, but there are moments of joy also - I particularly adored seeing how her relationship with young, mistreated, Cecily (and Nan!) developed to one with trust and affection.
Expertly written, a richly detailed and accurate potrayal of this turbulent time in history, Wheel of Fortune is nothing short of a masterpiece and I highly recommend reading for fellow historical fiction fans.
With a dramatic cliff hanger of an ending, I am excited to begin book 2 to see what is to come next and wonder if we may come to learn more about Isobel's beloved mute servant Buena - amongst other things.
July 3, 2024
I was really looking forward to this book, it's set in one of my favourite historical time periods the Plantagenets/ Cousins war period in history but instead of being centred around the King and his family we are sort of looking ajecent to him. High enough up the social ladder to have the king's brother visiting but not so high that it all occurs at court. And I really liked that idea because so often when we have books set then it is all about court, almost to the point that you forget that they all had family seats to look after. I have to admit I got very excited to see how well-researched this book is, to the point of the author having had a medieval historian whose podcast I listen to read the book and endorse it. All of this made my history nerd self so very happy.
I did find this a very difficult book to get into though, at least for the first 100 pages, it's a very slow start to the book with a lot of scene settings and background giving, all of which are required for a book like this but it did make me have to come back to the book a few times. But once I hit the 100-page mark I did fly through the book, it's well-researched but also well-written so it's a very easy book to sit and devour. I wasn't a fan of Isobel in those first few pages, I didn't dislike her but I think I found her a little almost robotic maybe, she didn't have the fire I was expecting from the blurb until later in the book. I definitely warmed to her throughout the book and then further on as things happened to her I found that my emotions were coming into play and I completely wanted to just bundle her up and keep her safe. C.F Dunn has so brilliantly got across just how at the mercy of men women are in this age and how little control they have not only of their own lives but in some cases, their own bodies and those parts of the book are difficult to read because they've been written so well.
This book has left me at such a cliffhanger that I can't wait to start on book two of the series and see if Isobel manages to grasp any control back of her life and manor.
I did find this a very difficult book to get into though, at least for the first 100 pages, it's a very slow start to the book with a lot of scene settings and background giving, all of which are required for a book like this but it did make me have to come back to the book a few times. But once I hit the 100-page mark I did fly through the book, it's well-researched but also well-written so it's a very easy book to sit and devour. I wasn't a fan of Isobel in those first few pages, I didn't dislike her but I think I found her a little almost robotic maybe, she didn't have the fire I was expecting from the blurb until later in the book. I definitely warmed to her throughout the book and then further on as things happened to her I found that my emotions were coming into play and I completely wanted to just bundle her up and keep her safe. C.F Dunn has so brilliantly got across just how at the mercy of men women are in this age and how little control they have not only of their own lives but in some cases, their own bodies and those parts of the book are difficult to read because they've been written so well.
This book has left me at such a cliffhanger that I can't wait to start on book two of the series and see if Isobel manages to grasp any control back of her life and manor.
May 23, 2023
England in the late 1400’s was a turbulent place. Politics were every bit as complicated as they are today, and a great deal more brutal. Being on the wrong side - that is, the losing side! - could cost you a lot more than your deposit. Lives, families, lands and honour were all at stake.
Claire Dunn shows us this England through the eyes and the life of Isobel Fenton, a young women of a minor noble family. When her beloved father dies, Isobel is left in a very vulnerable position: there are powerful men who want her lands, and others who just want her - and powerful women who would see her disgraced or destroyed for the threat she poses, however unwittingly.
It is this clash of personalities, from the very highest nobles to the the servants and men-at-arms, that drives the story. All the characters are vivid and authentic - real people, with real concerns, ambitions and fears that we can relate to, even thought their world is so different from ours. And that authenticity draws us into the world, as much as the fine detail and rich descriptions. But for a matter of a few hundred years between us, we could have lived as they did.
The plot develops naturally from the characters, fits smoothly into the historical facts of the time and is helped along by a well crafted flow of words that keep us involved as Isobel struggles to navigate fear and danger, but also love and hope. It builds to a tense climax that leaves us wanting to move on to the next book as soon as possible! But it might also leave us reflecting how much times have changed - and yet how much people have not.
Winding down from that, there are some very useful appendices that, whilst not essential to the story, do add some fascinating background details to the times, the geographical location of the story, and the version of English spoken then.
Overall, a deeply thought through, well researched and powerfully written novel that I found absorbing throughout.
Claire Dunn shows us this England through the eyes and the life of Isobel Fenton, a young women of a minor noble family. When her beloved father dies, Isobel is left in a very vulnerable position: there are powerful men who want her lands, and others who just want her - and powerful women who would see her disgraced or destroyed for the threat she poses, however unwittingly.
It is this clash of personalities, from the very highest nobles to the the servants and men-at-arms, that drives the story. All the characters are vivid and authentic - real people, with real concerns, ambitions and fears that we can relate to, even thought their world is so different from ours. And that authenticity draws us into the world, as much as the fine detail and rich descriptions. But for a matter of a few hundred years between us, we could have lived as they did.
The plot develops naturally from the characters, fits smoothly into the historical facts of the time and is helped along by a well crafted flow of words that keep us involved as Isobel struggles to navigate fear and danger, but also love and hope. It builds to a tense climax that leaves us wanting to move on to the next book as soon as possible! But it might also leave us reflecting how much times have changed - and yet how much people have not.
Winding down from that, there are some very useful appendices that, whilst not essential to the story, do add some fascinating background details to the times, the geographical location of the story, and the version of English spoken then.
Overall, a deeply thought through, well researched and powerfully written novel that I found absorbing throughout.
August 21, 2024
Reseña de "The Wheel of Fortune" de C.F. Dunn
Este libro nos sumerge en la Inglaterra tumultuosa de 1469, donde la amenaza de la rebelión pone en peligro una paz ya frágil. Con el carismático Eduardo IV gobernando con el apoyo del Conde de Warwick durante una década, la protagonista, Isobel Fenton, emerge como una mujer fuerte y decidida.
Lo curioso es que Isobel no tiene idea de la importancia que ella y su tierra tienen en este juego político. Bajo el cuidado del formidable Conde, se ve envuelta en una trama más grande de lo que imagina. A medida que la inquietud se intensifica hasta convertirse en guerra, Isobel se encuentra en el corazón del conflicto.
⏰Este libro me dejó con sentimientos encontrados. Aunque la trama y los personajes fueron interesantes, profundos y atractivos, el ritmo del libro fue bastante lento. Durante la mayor parte de la lectura, tuve la sensación de que tanto la trama como el personaje principal estaban atrapados y no se desarrollaban. Además, el final del libro fue repentino y me dejó desorientada, ya que esperaba que al menos algunos conflictos y relaciones entre personajes se hubieran desarrollado o resuelto antes de que terminara el libro.
🗣Por otro lado, se nota que el mundo y los conflictos principales se han pensado a conciencia, y los personajes son fascinantes y complejos. Mientras lees, sientes que los personajes son coherentes con las acciones que toman y no sientes que tomen decisiones sin sentido. Me gustaría destacar que, aunque mi intuición creía que sabía hacia dónde se dirigía este libro, a medida que avanzaba, quedó claro que la historia tenía otros planes. Eso me sorprendió mucho y me enganchó aún más. También creo que es un excelente punto de partida para una serie, ya que crea una trama y personajes por los que te preocupas, están bien pensados, y un mundo donde todo puede pasar.
Este libro nos sumerge en la Inglaterra tumultuosa de 1469, donde la amenaza de la rebelión pone en peligro una paz ya frágil. Con el carismático Eduardo IV gobernando con el apoyo del Conde de Warwick durante una década, la protagonista, Isobel Fenton, emerge como una mujer fuerte y decidida.
Lo curioso es que Isobel no tiene idea de la importancia que ella y su tierra tienen en este juego político. Bajo el cuidado del formidable Conde, se ve envuelta en una trama más grande de lo que imagina. A medida que la inquietud se intensifica hasta convertirse en guerra, Isobel se encuentra en el corazón del conflicto.
⏰Este libro me dejó con sentimientos encontrados. Aunque la trama y los personajes fueron interesantes, profundos y atractivos, el ritmo del libro fue bastante lento. Durante la mayor parte de la lectura, tuve la sensación de que tanto la trama como el personaje principal estaban atrapados y no se desarrollaban. Además, el final del libro fue repentino y me dejó desorientada, ya que esperaba que al menos algunos conflictos y relaciones entre personajes se hubieran desarrollado o resuelto antes de que terminara el libro.
🗣Por otro lado, se nota que el mundo y los conflictos principales se han pensado a conciencia, y los personajes son fascinantes y complejos. Mientras lees, sientes que los personajes son coherentes con las acciones que toman y no sientes que tomen decisiones sin sentido. Me gustaría destacar que, aunque mi intuición creía que sabía hacia dónde se dirigía este libro, a medida que avanzaba, quedó claro que la historia tenía otros planes. Eso me sorprendió mucho y me enganchó aún más. También creo que es un excelente punto de partida para una serie, ya que crea una trama y personajes por los que te preocupas, están bien pensados, y un mundo donde todo puede pasar.
June 21, 2024
I knew I was going to love Wheel of Fortune as soon as I opened it and saw not only a map but a family tree and a list of characters too. It's little things like this that make a good book great and Wheel of Fortune is an outstanding piece of historical fiction and a riveting start to an exciting new series.
I absolutely loved the main character of Isobel; she is so feisty and strong-willed but unfortunately, lives in a time when women should be seen and not heard. Isobel is betrothed to Thomas Lacey and is looking forward to her wedding, but when her father dies she is transferred into the care of the Earl. No longer the mistress of the house, Isobel is treated like a servant and tasked with looking after the Earl's daughters. She thinks it's only temporary until her wedding, but the Earl has other ideas: the wedding is cancelled and Isobel's future is thrown into doubt.
Set during the reign of Edward IV and in the midst of the Wars of the Roses, everybody must choose a side and nobody can be trusted...least of all those who should be protectors. I really felt for Isobel, having her whole future mapped out and then suddenly vanishing before her eyes on the death of her father. Women, even those of high birth, had no rights even if they were more than capable of managing estates without a man by their side.
Wheel of Fortune is a captivating step back in time as the 15th century is brought vividly to life through C.F. Dunn's wonderful writing. I am so pleased that it is the first of a new series as I didn't want the story to end and I can't wait to read more. Very highly recommended.
I received an ARC to read and review for the blog tour and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
I absolutely loved the main character of Isobel; she is so feisty and strong-willed but unfortunately, lives in a time when women should be seen and not heard. Isobel is betrothed to Thomas Lacey and is looking forward to her wedding, but when her father dies she is transferred into the care of the Earl. No longer the mistress of the house, Isobel is treated like a servant and tasked with looking after the Earl's daughters. She thinks it's only temporary until her wedding, but the Earl has other ideas: the wedding is cancelled and Isobel's future is thrown into doubt.
Set during the reign of Edward IV and in the midst of the Wars of the Roses, everybody must choose a side and nobody can be trusted...least of all those who should be protectors. I really felt for Isobel, having her whole future mapped out and then suddenly vanishing before her eyes on the death of her father. Women, even those of high birth, had no rights even if they were more than capable of managing estates without a man by their side.
Wheel of Fortune is a captivating step back in time as the 15th century is brought vividly to life through C.F. Dunn's wonderful writing. I am so pleased that it is the first of a new series as I didn't want the story to end and I can't wait to read more. Very highly recommended.
I received an ARC to read and review for the blog tour and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
April 25, 2025
Set in 1469 during the War of the Roses, Edward IV is on the throne but conflict and treachery abound through betrayers and turncoats.
Isobel Fenton loves her home at the manor of Beaumancote, but misses her mother who passed away years before this story. She is of marriageable age and so vulnerable in a world where property and power go hand-in-hand. When her father dies, her idyllic world is shattered. Rather than remain in her childhood home, she is taken under the guardianship of the Earl who scuppers her plan to marry Thomas Lacey whose eye is on extending his family power base in the north.
Isobel must find her place in the new household where she is little more than a servant, looking after the Earl's youngest two girls but catching the eye of his widowed brother. The Earl himself is in a dead marriage with a bitter woman and his darker designs on Isobel become clear.
Meanwhile the Earl of Warwick (the notorious 'King maker') abandons Edward and makes an alliance with his brother George, the Earl of Clarence. Ricard of Gloucester supports his eldest brother and the wheel of fortune keep turning.
A wonderful evocation of the era with a compelling story that manages not to get bogged down in politics and evokes empathy for Isobel's dilemma. Fortunately, this is only book 1 in what is set to be a cracking series. I'm looking forward to reading Sun Ascendant very soon. (Part 3: Degrees of Affinity will be out in October this year.)
Isobel Fenton loves her home at the manor of Beaumancote, but misses her mother who passed away years before this story. She is of marriageable age and so vulnerable in a world where property and power go hand-in-hand. When her father dies, her idyllic world is shattered. Rather than remain in her childhood home, she is taken under the guardianship of the Earl who scuppers her plan to marry Thomas Lacey whose eye is on extending his family power base in the north.
Isobel must find her place in the new household where she is little more than a servant, looking after the Earl's youngest two girls but catching the eye of his widowed brother. The Earl himself is in a dead marriage with a bitter woman and his darker designs on Isobel become clear.
Meanwhile the Earl of Warwick (the notorious 'King maker') abandons Edward and makes an alliance with his brother George, the Earl of Clarence. Ricard of Gloucester supports his eldest brother and the wheel of fortune keep turning.
A wonderful evocation of the era with a compelling story that manages not to get bogged down in politics and evokes empathy for Isobel's dilemma. Fortunately, this is only book 1 in what is set to be a cracking series. I'm looking forward to reading Sun Ascendant very soon. (Part 3: Degrees of Affinity will be out in October this year.)
June 11, 2024
Copy courtesy of Netgalley and Literally PR Ltd.
3.5 stars
This was not what I expected - I enjoyed it but found the pacing a tad slow for the first 15 chapters. Thankfully this picked up towards the third of the book which renewed my interest in the story.
Overall, Dunn paints a compelling picture of life during the War of Roses, choosing to focus more on the story of Isobel x the Lacey/Langton house to demonstrate the lived experience of the time. The novel is also well researched and there is a clear sense of place through out.
3.5 stars
This was not what I expected - I enjoyed it but found the pacing a tad slow for the first 15 chapters. Thankfully this picked up towards the third of the book which renewed my interest in the story.
Overall, Dunn paints a compelling picture of life during the War of Roses, choosing to focus more on the story of Isobel x the Lacey/Langton house to demonstrate the lived experience of the time. The novel is also well researched and there is a clear sense of place through out.
June 9, 2024
I want to remember the text below:
Thanks to @Literallypr and @Claire.f.dunn for having me on this tour.
I really appreciated the list of characters and their family trees in the book, as well as the map, because it helped me keep track of who was who while reading.
The pacing of this book was slow at first, as it introduced all the characters and set up the world. The novel wasn't what I expected; there was little focus on the royal wars and conflict and more on the conflict between Earl Langton and Isobel Fenton. While I liked the time period of the War of the Roses for most of the book, I felt that both the plot and the main character were stagnant and not developing. Moreover, the ending of the book felt sudden and left me disoriented, as I had hoped that at least some conflicts and character relationships would be more advanced or resolved before the book ended.
TW: Rape.Child Abuse, Mention of Miscarriage and Stillborn
#WheelofFortuneNovel #Booktour #historiacalfiction #WheelofFortuneNovel #Booktour #historicalfiction #characterdevelopment #conflictresolution #bookreview #novelanalysis #literarycritique #readerscommunity #historicalcontext #bookishthoughts
Thanks to @Literallypr and @Claire.f.dunn for having me on this tour.
I really appreciated the list of characters and their family trees in the book, as well as the map, because it helped me keep track of who was who while reading.
The pacing of this book was slow at first, as it introduced all the characters and set up the world. The novel wasn't what I expected; there was little focus on the royal wars and conflict and more on the conflict between Earl Langton and Isobel Fenton. While I liked the time period of the War of the Roses for most of the book, I felt that both the plot and the main character were stagnant and not developing. Moreover, the ending of the book felt sudden and left me disoriented, as I had hoped that at least some conflicts and character relationships would be more advanced or resolved before the book ended.
TW: Rape.Child Abuse, Mention of Miscarriage and Stillborn
#WheelofFortuneNovel #Booktour #historiacalfiction #WheelofFortuneNovel #Booktour #historicalfiction #characterdevelopment #conflictresolution #bookreview #novelanalysis #literarycritique #readerscommunity #historicalcontext #bookishthoughts
June 19, 2024
Wheel of Fortune is the story of Isobel Fenton, a young lady who becomes a pawn in a dangerous game, completely unknowingly. When her father dies, Isobel becomes the ward of the Earl of Warwick, he promised her father he would protect her. What he does is far from the vow he made to her father. In part, this is a love story with Isobel falling for the Earl’s widowed brother, a man she can never have and the Earl’s love at and perhaps, in his own way, love for Isobel. The rest is about the quest for power and being the most powerful force in the country. I thought Isobel was strong, intelligent and caring. The way she took care of the Earl’s daughters was evidence of her tender side. The Earl was ruthless, yet I think deep down he had remorse for his actions. Robert, the Earl’s brother, was a good man who I hope will be able to, forgive the way Isobel was manipulated and accept his feelings for her. The book was well written and steeped in history. I really enjoyed it and thought the cliffhanger at the end was brilliant and completely surprising.
December 2, 2023
Isobel Fenton is the heiress to a small but strategic estate and is expected to marry a young man who stands to inherit more. However on her father's death Isobel becomes the ward of the local Earl and her fiancee is the son of his enemy so Isobel's marriage prospects change. As the country struggles with the political events around the accession of Edward IV, Isobel's inheritance is guarded but she is at the whim of far more powerful men.
There are lots of historical fiction novels written each year. These range from the very factual to the unashamedly romantic and at the start I felt this book was one of the latter. However there is quite a nasty turn in this book which makes it stand out from the norm. I admired the research and most of the plot but it didn't make me feel comfortable!
There are lots of historical fiction novels written each year. These range from the very factual to the unashamedly romantic and at the start I felt this book was one of the latter. However there is quite a nasty turn in this book which makes it stand out from the norm. I admired the research and most of the plot but it didn't make me feel comfortable!
December 6, 2023
Wheel of Fortune
by C.F. Dunn
1469. England is in turmoil. For almost ten years, the attractive and charismatic Edward IV has ruled with the Earl of Warwick's support, but now rebellion threatens the fragile peace.
Young and determined, Isobel Fenton is resolved that nothing will separate her from her beloved manor of Beaumancote, even if it does mean marrying Thomas Lacey. But Isobel is unaware of the importance she and her land represent nor of the agenda of the formidable Earl in whose care she finds herself. As an unseen witness to a summary execution, she is propelled into the world of personal feuds and national politics, and as unrest boils into war, Isobel is drawn into the very heart of the conflict. Can she escape from the web in which she is trapped, and can she find her way home?
by C.F. Dunn
1469. England is in turmoil. For almost ten years, the attractive and charismatic Edward IV has ruled with the Earl of Warwick's support, but now rebellion threatens the fragile peace.
Young and determined, Isobel Fenton is resolved that nothing will separate her from her beloved manor of Beaumancote, even if it does mean marrying Thomas Lacey. But Isobel is unaware of the importance she and her land represent nor of the agenda of the formidable Earl in whose care she finds herself. As an unseen witness to a summary execution, she is propelled into the world of personal feuds and national politics, and as unrest boils into war, Isobel is drawn into the very heart of the conflict. Can she escape from the web in which she is trapped, and can she find her way home?
June 10, 2024
Another amazing historical fiction.
I really enjoyed being a part of Isobel's journey in this coming of age tale that follows her story through the times. I liked this fmc she was strong, resilient and easily relatable. Dunn easily takes you back in time with her intricate details and vivid scenes. I flew through this novel so quickly, devouring chapter by chapter wanting to know what was going to happen next.
While this is more of a slow paced novel, that didn't hinder my love as I felt like we got more of a deeper understanding of the storyline and characters with this pacing. If you're a historical novel lover you need to read this asap, you can tell this author took her time crafting this story as it's so easy to picture each scene and setting. I liked the little facts that were also thrown in here and there while reading.
I really enjoyed being a part of Isobel's journey in this coming of age tale that follows her story through the times. I liked this fmc she was strong, resilient and easily relatable. Dunn easily takes you back in time with her intricate details and vivid scenes. I flew through this novel so quickly, devouring chapter by chapter wanting to know what was going to happen next.
While this is more of a slow paced novel, that didn't hinder my love as I felt like we got more of a deeper understanding of the storyline and characters with this pacing. If you're a historical novel lover you need to read this asap, you can tell this author took her time crafting this story as it's so easy to picture each scene and setting. I liked the little facts that were also thrown in here and there while reading.
July 11, 2024
To begin with, the author did a great job with the research. You can tell that slot of time and effort was put into it. However , the beginning of the book was very slow to start and I had a difficult time getting into it. Honestly, I was about a 1/4 of the way in before asking myself if I should dnf it. I also took Odie with the ending. I understood that the author wanted to have this be the first of a series however there needed to be some type of closure and there wasn't so it felt very unfinished to me. The last third of the book is what I enjoyed. I felt that there was a lot of extra unnecessary bits thrown in to show that it was going to be a series.
I'm hoping that book two is an improvement.
I'm hoping that book two is an improvement.
December 6, 2023
First of all the research and historical work is amazing. Dunn does this very well. However it was too slow of a start for me. I was finally about a third of the way in before I wasn't asking myself if I should shelf this. I may have if I was not reviewing the book. My second issue was the ending. Even with this being a series I would have like to see some resolution to at least a subplot. So it feels finished and a new subplot can take place. I feel maybe 1/3 of the book was exciting and the rest was fluff to make it a series.
I was disappointed because this period historical genre is one of my favorite. And I love a good series.
I was disappointed because this period historical genre is one of my favorite. And I love a good series.
March 18, 2024
I received an eARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. It has not affected my opinions.
This book simply wasn't for me because there wasn't a strong enough hook. I wanted to love it - it's set during Edward IV's reign, which means Wars of the Roses, so a period I love. However, the story seemed to be more "will she get to marry this guy?" which isn't something I'm particularly interested in. The tensions in the country, at least 15% in (when I stopped reading) were such a minor secondary part that it felt like the story could have happened at any point in history, which is something I really don't like. I want the period to feel intimately tied in.
This book simply wasn't for me because there wasn't a strong enough hook. I wanted to love it - it's set during Edward IV's reign, which means Wars of the Roses, so a period I love. However, the story seemed to be more "will she get to marry this guy?" which isn't something I'm particularly interested in. The tensions in the country, at least 15% in (when I stopped reading) were such a minor secondary part that it felt like the story could have happened at any point in history, which is something I really don't like. I want the period to feel intimately tied in.
June 15, 2023
Wheel of Fortune is a beautifully crafted, evocative and powerful book. The characters are all so well-drawn and you are very quickly transported into the sounds, smells and sights of the medieval world because of the clarity and lyricism of the descriptions. The central character, Isobel Fenton, is a girl trapped in incredibly difficult circumstances through no fault of her own, and all the way through I was cheering her on, hoping she would prevail. I won't spoil the plot, but it's a page-turner and fans of historical fiction will love it. I just can't wait for book two!
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