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Clarenceux Trilogy #3
The Final Sacrament
From the author of The Time Traveller's Guide to Elizabethan England , now a major BBC 2 TV series, comes the next enthralling Elizabethan thriller.
September 1566. William Harley, Clarenceux King of Arms, lives quietly with his family in London, with a document in his possession that could destroy the state. The aged Lady Percy, Countess of Northumberland, has not given up trying to find it. Nor has she forgotten how he betrayed her and the Catholic cause - she has spent the last two years planning her revenge. But then eloquent and adventurous courtier, John Greystoke suddenly seems most concerned for Clarenceux's safety. And why, on behalf of the government, does Francis Walsingham have spies watching Clarenceux's house day and night? When his wife and his daughter go missing, Clarenceux finds himself on the run with his other young daughter, hunted by Lady Percy's agents. He knows he must finally destroy the document, even if it should cost him his life - but how can he, until he has reunited his family?
September 1566. William Harley, Clarenceux King of Arms, lives quietly with his family in London, with a document in his possession that could destroy the state. The aged Lady Percy, Countess of Northumberland, has not given up trying to find it. Nor has she forgotten how he betrayed her and the Catholic cause - she has spent the last two years planning her revenge. But then eloquent and adventurous courtier, John Greystoke suddenly seems most concerned for Clarenceux's safety. And why, on behalf of the government, does Francis Walsingham have spies watching Clarenceux's house day and night? When his wife and his daughter go missing, Clarenceux finds himself on the run with his other young daughter, hunted by Lady Percy's agents. He knows he must finally destroy the document, even if it should cost him his life - but how can he, until he has reunited his family?
416 pages, Hardcover
First published August 16, 2012
38 people are currently reading
440 people want to read
About the author
James Forrester
33 books117 followersJames Forrester is a historian by profession. He has published a few medieval and early modern non-fiction titles under the name Ian Mortimer Ian Mortimer (his full name being Ian James Forrester Mortimer). He lives in Devon with his wife and three children, on the northeast edge of Dartmoor.
The Clarenceux Trilogy was inspired by contemporary documents in the National Archives and the British Library discovered in the course of his scholarly research. The main character is William harley, Clarenceux King of Arms, a herald. It is concerned with loyalty and betrayal - and set in the 1560s, when loyalty to one's spouse, to the state, and to one's religion were exceedingly important - so much so that betrayal of these things could end respectively in flogging, being hanged, drawn and quartered; and being burnt at the stake.
The Clarenceux Trilogy was inspired by contemporary documents in the National Archives and the British Library discovered in the course of his scholarly research. The main character is William harley, Clarenceux King of Arms, a herald. It is concerned with loyalty and betrayal - and set in the 1560s, when loyalty to one's spouse, to the state, and to one's religion were exceedingly important - so much so that betrayal of these things could end respectively in flogging, being hanged, drawn and quartered; and being burnt at the stake.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
December 12, 2021
Read this book in 2012, and its the 3rd and final volume of the amazing "Clarenceux"trilogy.
This tale is set in the years Ad 1566-1567, and William Harley somehow again in the possession of that dangerous secret document, a document that could destroy the state.
Now he's persecuted also by the aged Lady Percy, Countess of Northumberland, who wants that secret document desperately, and so she'll do anything to get it.
She feels betrayed by Harley and her Catholic cause, and also the adventurous courtier, John Greystoke, feels compassion for William Harley and his safety.
At the same time the Clarenceux Harley's house is observed day and night by Francis Walsingham's men and the State, convinced that he still has that document.
When his wife and his daughter go missing, he'll go on the run with his other young daughter, from the pursuit of not only Walsingham's men, but also from agent pursuers belonging to Lady Percy.
Knowing that he has to destroy that document , but he only do this when his family is reunited, and will follow is a thrilling and intriguing historical thriller mystery, in which William Harley and his secret document will come to their inevitable and fearsome end.
Highly recommended, for this is a wonderful final addition to this superb trilogy, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Brilliant Clarenceux Ending"!
This tale is set in the years Ad 1566-1567, and William Harley somehow again in the possession of that dangerous secret document, a document that could destroy the state.
Now he's persecuted also by the aged Lady Percy, Countess of Northumberland, who wants that secret document desperately, and so she'll do anything to get it.
She feels betrayed by Harley and her Catholic cause, and also the adventurous courtier, John Greystoke, feels compassion for William Harley and his safety.
At the same time the Clarenceux Harley's house is observed day and night by Francis Walsingham's men and the State, convinced that he still has that document.
When his wife and his daughter go missing, he'll go on the run with his other young daughter, from the pursuit of not only Walsingham's men, but also from agent pursuers belonging to Lady Percy.
Knowing that he has to destroy that document , but he only do this when his family is reunited, and will follow is a thrilling and intriguing historical thriller mystery, in which William Harley and his secret document will come to their inevitable and fearsome end.
Highly recommended, for this is a wonderful final addition to this superb trilogy, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Brilliant Clarenceux Ending"!
March 14, 2016
Unbelievably good. I totally agree with the author's note on historical fiction at the end of the book, stating that historical fiction is not about complete accuracy. This doesn't mean that Ian Mortimer (James Forrester) does not possess much knowledge of the period, or that he did not do his research. That is the beauty of it - his knowledge is extensive and his understanding is deep, and he doesn't let them get in the way of his wonderful story. Instead, he uses them to re-create the atmosphere, and help us get into the state of mind of the people of the time, understanding their beliefs, values and opinions. His characterisation is superb - the characters spring out of the page with love and authenticity. My only disappointment is . The plot is suspenseful and engaging. I learned much, and I'm so happy I read this series of books.
September 21, 2013
This is the third, and final, book in the trilogy which began with "Sacred Treason" and moved on to "Roots of Betrayal". As before, the story revolves around a document in the possession of Clarenceux, King of Arms, which proves that Anne Boleyn secretly married Lord Percy - and that, consequently, Elizabeth should not be on the throne. Clarenceux is a loyal Catholic, who sees that there is more stability with a Protestant monarch than in unleashing war. However, Lady Percy is filled with fury that Clarenceux has not moved to use the document; especially as Mary, Queen of Scots and her husband, Lord Henry Stewart, offer a possible Catholic monarch - despite the fact that they are almost at war themselves. Now, Lady Percy, who still wants vengeance on Anne Boleyn for her loveless marriage, unleashes an army of desperate women against Clarenceux and his family.
Besieged in his house, Clarenceux and his family have these female assassins to contend with - as well as a man, called Greystoke, supposedly working for Walsingham, watching him at all times. Clarenceux does not know who to trust and feels unable to protect his wife, Awdrey, and his young daughters. He does know that he needs to bring matters to an end in a way which will end the violence. Overall, this is a good series, which I have enjoyed. At times I have found Clarenceux a rather irritating hero, but it is a realistic series and he never acts in a way which is less than believeable.
Besieged in his house, Clarenceux and his family have these female assassins to contend with - as well as a man, called Greystoke, supposedly working for Walsingham, watching him at all times. Clarenceux does not know who to trust and feels unable to protect his wife, Awdrey, and his young daughters. He does know that he needs to bring matters to an end in a way which will end the violence. Overall, this is a good series, which I have enjoyed. At times I have found Clarenceux a rather irritating hero, but it is a realistic series and he never acts in a way which is less than believeable.
April 28, 2022
We're back with my favourite genre (god I wish there was a less pretentious word that adequately described what I meant), historical fiction. A little later than my favourite period but still well within my core knowledge. To be honest though you don't really need to know anything about the period to enjoy this book. The writing is great and the detail appears authentic. Throw in some Protestant/Catholic drama and you have the core for great book but I didn't enjoy this one as much as the other two.
It's a bit like the central character completely changes his personality between books 2 and 3. Gone is the swashbuckling herald with nerves of steel and principles to match. We now get someone who is indecisive and easily tricked and quite frankly suicidal and not in a 'this is dangerous but god damn it, it might just work' kind of way but in a literal severe depression 'people would be better off without me' way. And while I don't mind that so much and it would be a refreshing take in a book set in Elizabethan times, there's no inkling of that in the other books so it's confusing.
There are a number of rape scenes which is not uncommon in this kind of book but they don't really get resolved in any way. It's all just a bit emotionally all over the place and I hate to say it but it comes across as a little whiny for the main character. You're left feeling like you want to shake him because on the one hand he doesn't like the way his life is going and the stress that having this document engenders in his life but neither is he willing to do anything about it. The reader is left frustrated, at least I was.
I'm glad the series is over but I'm also glad I read it so take from that what you will.
It's a bit like the central character completely changes his personality between books 2 and 3. Gone is the swashbuckling herald with nerves of steel and principles to match. We now get someone who is indecisive and easily tricked and quite frankly suicidal and not in a 'this is dangerous but god damn it, it might just work' kind of way but in a literal severe depression 'people would be better off without me' way. And while I don't mind that so much and it would be a refreshing take in a book set in Elizabethan times, there's no inkling of that in the other books so it's confusing.
There are a number of rape scenes which is not uncommon in this kind of book but they don't really get resolved in any way. It's all just a bit emotionally all over the place and I hate to say it but it comes across as a little whiny for the main character. You're left feeling like you want to shake him because on the one hand he doesn't like the way his life is going and the stress that having this document engenders in his life but neither is he willing to do anything about it. The reader is left frustrated, at least I was.
I'm glad the series is over but I'm also glad I read it so take from that what you will.
October 20, 2018
'The Final Sacrament' is the third book in the Clarenceux series written by James Forrester, but I will admit, I have not read the other two books, I just decided to buy this book as when I was in a bookshop, it seemed to jump out at me. However, that is no issue as the book is quite easy to follow! I loved the design of the book cover, with the gold detail and the idea of an old letter as the front of the book made me excited to read this novel.
The premise of the book is about a Catholic protagonist called William Harley, who is a herald and Clarenceux King of Arms, who is in possession of a very important document that could affect the monarchy and the safety of the realm. What is this important document I hear you ask?
Well........It is the marriage agreement between Lord Henry Percy, the Earl of Northumberland and Anne Boleyn, but you may wonder, why would that document be so important? Well (again), it is important as it is Anne Boleyn's daughter; Elizabeth I that is sitting on the throne of England during the events of this book. The agreement becomes crucial as the document states that Anne and Henry Percy's marriage was consummated, and that would have affected Henry VIII's marriage to Anne Boleyn and would render Elizabeth illegitimate.
However, there are many people who want the agreement in their hands; the Catholics and Lady Percy, the Dowager Countess of Northumberland as they want to declare Elizabeth illegitimate so they could place Mary, Queen of Scots's son on the throne of England, whereas William Cecil wants the document as it will protect Elizabeth and keep the realm safe. William is caught in the middle, and tries to be one step ahead of everyone, but suddenly his life changes when his one of his daughters gets hurt, and his wife and other daughter are abducted and subjected to bouts of torture, that he decides that enough is enough!
When I first started reading the book and got to the part where they were discussing the marriage agreement between Anne Boleyn and Henry Percy, I became excited as even though I knew it was historical fiction, it would have changed everything for Elizabeth and I liked that original idea. However, as I read on, I found that it wasn't what I thought the book was going to be about. The book shows everyone trying to get the document from William Harley and uses his daughters and wife as leverage until they receive the document, so in reality, the document is just mentioned and doesn't have the effect that I thought it would have in the story and plot.
The author has managed to capture the surroundings of Tudor England, and for some characters, have managed to create their personalities perfectly! However, the main character William Harley, I didn't seem to connect to him that much, I loved and connected his wife, his daughters, and even his ex-lover Rebecca Machyn, basically I liked and connected with everyone who William was friends with or known, and just not him! I am in no way saying that I did not empathise with William when his daughter , but his personality didn't seem to drawn me in like the other characters in the story. I found him to be quite distant as a person, but yet I understand that he had been through a lot and there is tension surrounding the marriage agreement, but he comes across as distrustful of everyone (which is fine due to the situation), but I get the sense that he looks down on everyone, especially when he meets lowlife women, but especially if they disagree with him.
One thing that I must comment on, is the chapters, I love the font and style of the capital letter at the start of the chapter, but what I liked is the different sizes of the chapters as it made it more interesting and the author made good use of the chapters by writing characters about the 'enemies' and what is happening with their plotting and scheming, and the next chapter would be about William Harley. However, sometimes I felt that, especially with the shorter chapters, that there wasn't much detail and I felt like I was waiting for more, but then the next chapter would arrive.
The drama kept me on the edge of my seat, as there were so many twists and turns, especially with the fallen women and John Greystroke, some he believed to be enemies and some he believed to be friends. Although, the torture that William's wife had to endure did make me feel a little bit uncomfortable, especially as one of their daughters had to be removed from the room they were kept in, just so that they could torture her. I appreciate the fact that violence and torture was an acceptable throughout the era, but I guess it is a compliment to the author that he had written the violence in such a way, that it was believable and harrowing that I felt uncomfortable.
Also, if you are looking for a happy ending with this story, then I am sorry to inform you that this is the wrong book for that ending! However, throughout the story, it becomes clear what sort of ending will happen, but it still doesn't prepare you for the sad ending!
I would recommend this book to anyone that would like to read historical fiction, as this book is exactly that, fiction but good fiction! This book is also great to read because it has crime elements, there are plots and schemes, there are elements of love and family relations throughout!
The premise of the book is about a Catholic protagonist called William Harley, who is a herald and Clarenceux King of Arms, who is in possession of a very important document that could affect the monarchy and the safety of the realm. What is this important document I hear you ask?
Well........It is the marriage agreement between Lord Henry Percy, the Earl of Northumberland and Anne Boleyn, but you may wonder, why would that document be so important? Well (again), it is important as it is Anne Boleyn's daughter; Elizabeth I that is sitting on the throne of England during the events of this book. The agreement becomes crucial as the document states that Anne and Henry Percy's marriage was consummated, and that would have affected Henry VIII's marriage to Anne Boleyn and would render Elizabeth illegitimate.
However, there are many people who want the agreement in their hands; the Catholics and Lady Percy, the Dowager Countess of Northumberland as they want to declare Elizabeth illegitimate so they could place Mary, Queen of Scots's son on the throne of England, whereas William Cecil wants the document as it will protect Elizabeth and keep the realm safe. William is caught in the middle, and tries to be one step ahead of everyone, but suddenly his life changes when his one of his daughters gets hurt, and his wife and other daughter are abducted and subjected to bouts of torture, that he decides that enough is enough!
When I first started reading the book and got to the part where they were discussing the marriage agreement between Anne Boleyn and Henry Percy, I became excited as even though I knew it was historical fiction, it would have changed everything for Elizabeth and I liked that original idea. However, as I read on, I found that it wasn't what I thought the book was going to be about. The book shows everyone trying to get the document from William Harley and uses his daughters and wife as leverage until they receive the document, so in reality, the document is just mentioned and doesn't have the effect that I thought it would have in the story and plot.
The author has managed to capture the surroundings of Tudor England, and for some characters, have managed to create their personalities perfectly! However, the main character William Harley, I didn't seem to connect to him that much, I loved and connected his wife, his daughters, and even his ex-lover Rebecca Machyn, basically I liked and connected with everyone who William was friends with or known, and just not him! I am in no way saying that I did not empathise with William when his daughter , but his personality didn't seem to drawn me in like the other characters in the story. I found him to be quite distant as a person, but yet I understand that he had been through a lot and there is tension surrounding the marriage agreement, but he comes across as distrustful of everyone (which is fine due to the situation), but I get the sense that he looks down on everyone, especially when he meets lowlife women, but especially if they disagree with him.
One thing that I must comment on, is the chapters, I love the font and style of the capital letter at the start of the chapter, but what I liked is the different sizes of the chapters as it made it more interesting and the author made good use of the chapters by writing characters about the 'enemies' and what is happening with their plotting and scheming, and the next chapter would be about William Harley. However, sometimes I felt that, especially with the shorter chapters, that there wasn't much detail and I felt like I was waiting for more, but then the next chapter would arrive.
The drama kept me on the edge of my seat, as there were so many twists and turns, especially with the fallen women and John Greystroke, some he believed to be enemies and some he believed to be friends. Although, the torture that William's wife had to endure did make me feel a little bit uncomfortable, especially as one of their daughters had to be removed from the room they were kept in, just so that they could torture her. I appreciate the fact that violence and torture was an acceptable throughout the era, but I guess it is a compliment to the author that he had written the violence in such a way, that it was believable and harrowing that I felt uncomfortable.
Also, if you are looking for a happy ending with this story, then I am sorry to inform you that this is the wrong book for that ending! However, throughout the story, it becomes clear what sort of ending will happen, but it still doesn't prepare you for the sad ending!
I would recommend this book to anyone that would like to read historical fiction, as this book is exactly that, fiction but good fiction! This book is also great to read because it has crime elements, there are plots and schemes, there are elements of love and family relations throughout!
February 20, 2019
I didn't even know this was part of a series until looking it up on here, but it works well enough that I could understand it without having read the previous two. Enough information is given about what has gone before and it's easy enough to grasp who the main characters are.
The Tudor setting is vividly depicted and the author really brings to life an era where being the "wrong" religion or saying the wrong thing could be deadly.
One thing I will note in this hardback edition - there's a rather embarrassing typo on page 21. I'm sure the author likes Oxfordshire really...
The Tudor setting is vividly depicted and the author really brings to life an era where being the "wrong" religion or saying the wrong thing could be deadly.
One thing I will note in this hardback edition - there's a rather embarrassing typo on page 21. I'm sure the author likes Oxfordshire really...
December 22, 2021
I was rather disappointed with this third book. It seemed to me the Clarenceax went from being a Swash buckling character who made things happen in the second book to one who became somewhat of a whimp who couldn’t do anything right, until the very end. Even then it didn’t quite work out as he planned!
October 3, 2025
Im glad I didn’t finish this on my way to work! It made me cry. In truth, either happy or sad outcome would have done so, so no spoilers here. Thoroughly enjoyed the twists and turns of the plot, as well as the historical research that showed in the dialogue and the descriptions of the political situation.
April 6, 2020
Marvellous
Well thought out, beautifully written,I will miss reading about the characters, that I have been on a journey with, but thanks to the author, for such an interesting novel
Well thought out, beautifully written,I will miss reading about the characters, that I have been on a journey with, but thanks to the author, for such an interesting novel
August 24, 2017
Litt mørk avslutning, på en ellers glimrende serie.
March 12, 2019
Great read. Some did not like the ending but they all can't end on a happy note. It was the right end. Anything else would just not be right.
June 30, 2020
The Final Sacrament
I enjoyed all 3 books in this trilogy, well written and good story telling, a master craftsman, really good “ENJOY”
I enjoyed all 3 books in this trilogy, well written and good story telling, a master craftsman, really good “ENJOY”
October 22, 2013
...a stunning conclusion to a saga of loyalty, faith and endurance
The concluding chapter to this Tudor conspiracy saga was excellent. Like some massive Chaucerian pilgrimage the relentlessness momentum surrounding the lives, loves and tragedies of those involved rolls on inexorably.
It seems like every page has a line, a gem, that you want to ponder before moving on. However the story line is so intense that all I could do was note them so that I can return and meditate.
What is the final sacrament? The idea is heavy with meaning and symbolism.
William Harvey(Clarenceux) comes to know and understand. We the reader come to know and understand somewhat. The final sacrament can allude to many things, but in his fight for loyalty and truth even unto death Harvey the man, not just the Herald, embodies the idea.
As he says, 'Loyalty has been the driving force of my life and betrayal my greatest fear...'
The biblical Job comparison to Clarenceux at the start is a telling comment on all Harvey has faced and will face.
The crux of the three novels is the supposed marriage document of Anne Boleyn to Lord Percy. A document that might illegitimatize Elizabeth and place the Scottish child prince, Charles James Stewart, on the throne. At this time, for a Protestant England especially, the fear of more civil unrest, deaths and persecution, and a possibility of a return to the times of bloody Mary Tudor is a real danger.
Elizabeth learns the truth about the document and the gift of legitimacy her mother, Anne Boleyn had her in reconciling herself with King Henry before going to her death. Again a reference to the idea of 'final sacrament.'
I found Walsingham's later talks to Lord Cecil about Elizabeth insightful, 'She must...do all she can to stay alive--and that means not marrying, not becoming pregnant, not being seen to be womanly or weak, but playing the part of God's angel in England.' Another sort of final sacrament?
The events that leads to this series' culmination, this third act, pares back like an onion being peeled away precisely and carefully, layer upon layer, with a stringency that leaves you helpless in the onslaught of dissection, even as you are brought to tears.
Always the 'Document', the sword of Damocles, hanging across our characters lives.
Walsingham wants the document to keep the throne and England secure. As does Cecil.
The bitter harbinger of vengeance, Lady Percy has commanded an army of assassins to destroy those near to Harvey, paving the way for her to secure the documents and throw the English throne into turmoil, returning Catholicism to it's former place. Towards the end, a third player, strategically hidden, is also revealed.
What Harvey wants and is trying to prevent is an England free from the threat of revolution and unrest, and safety for his family, the touchstone of his life and joy.
What I find telling is that in this novel that I am thinking about him and referring to him more and more as William Harvey, the man, the husband, the father, not Clarenceux the Herald of Arms.
Harvey's reflections throughout are wonderful.
When he muses on a quote from Aristotle about memory he reasons,
'Memory is imagination...If that is so...then all recorded memory is merely fable. And the document I guard...is also nothing more than fable. The illegitimacy of the Queen becomes untrue. But the truth is the truth, and always will be; so the truth of the past is changeable even if God alone knows it.'
'In all our struggles the last word is hope...in the final struggle the last word is love.'
If you like Tudor era historical suspense this series is a must!
A NetGalley ARC
The concluding chapter to this Tudor conspiracy saga was excellent. Like some massive Chaucerian pilgrimage the relentlessness momentum surrounding the lives, loves and tragedies of those involved rolls on inexorably.
It seems like every page has a line, a gem, that you want to ponder before moving on. However the story line is so intense that all I could do was note them so that I can return and meditate.
What is the final sacrament? The idea is heavy with meaning and symbolism.
William Harvey(Clarenceux) comes to know and understand. We the reader come to know and understand somewhat. The final sacrament can allude to many things, but in his fight for loyalty and truth even unto death Harvey the man, not just the Herald, embodies the idea.
As he says, 'Loyalty has been the driving force of my life and betrayal my greatest fear...'
The biblical Job comparison to Clarenceux at the start is a telling comment on all Harvey has faced and will face.
The crux of the three novels is the supposed marriage document of Anne Boleyn to Lord Percy. A document that might illegitimatize Elizabeth and place the Scottish child prince, Charles James Stewart, on the throne. At this time, for a Protestant England especially, the fear of more civil unrest, deaths and persecution, and a possibility of a return to the times of bloody Mary Tudor is a real danger.
Elizabeth learns the truth about the document and the gift of legitimacy her mother, Anne Boleyn had her in reconciling herself with King Henry before going to her death. Again a reference to the idea of 'final sacrament.'
I found Walsingham's later talks to Lord Cecil about Elizabeth insightful, 'She must...do all she can to stay alive--and that means not marrying, not becoming pregnant, not being seen to be womanly or weak, but playing the part of God's angel in England.' Another sort of final sacrament?
The events that leads to this series' culmination, this third act, pares back like an onion being peeled away precisely and carefully, layer upon layer, with a stringency that leaves you helpless in the onslaught of dissection, even as you are brought to tears.
Always the 'Document', the sword of Damocles, hanging across our characters lives.
Walsingham wants the document to keep the throne and England secure. As does Cecil.
The bitter harbinger of vengeance, Lady Percy has commanded an army of assassins to destroy those near to Harvey, paving the way for her to secure the documents and throw the English throne into turmoil, returning Catholicism to it's former place. Towards the end, a third player, strategically hidden, is also revealed.
What Harvey wants and is trying to prevent is an England free from the threat of revolution and unrest, and safety for his family, the touchstone of his life and joy.
What I find telling is that in this novel that I am thinking about him and referring to him more and more as William Harvey, the man, the husband, the father, not Clarenceux the Herald of Arms.
Harvey's reflections throughout are wonderful.
When he muses on a quote from Aristotle about memory he reasons,
'Memory is imagination...If that is so...then all recorded memory is merely fable. And the document I guard...is also nothing more than fable. The illegitimacy of the Queen becomes untrue. But the truth is the truth, and always will be; so the truth of the past is changeable even if God alone knows it.'
'In all our struggles the last word is hope...in the final struggle the last word is love.'
If you like Tudor era historical suspense this series is a must!
A NetGalley ARC
October 24, 2013
The Final Sacrament is the concluding volume in the Clarenceux Trilogy. All three books have been engaging and thought provoking. All are built upon the premise that a copy of a marriage certificate exists for Anne Boleyn and Henry Percy and its revelation would prove Elizabeth I illegitimate and put a Catholic monarch on the throne of England. The keeping of this document has fallen to William Harley, Clarenceux King of Arms - a lifelong Catholic, but a man loyal to the throne. Not that William Cecil completely believes that.
William's house is being watched day and night by Walsingham for Cecil and by a group of murderous woman for Lady Percy who is going mad with her desire for revenge against Anne Boleyn. She wants that certificate and will stop at nothing to get it. What she does not count on is William Harley.
This book, like the first two takes some serious liberties with history but the story is so good you really don't care. It's more of a character study than it is a retelling of late Tudor times. There is much to be considered on the nature of religion, loyalty, life, love and betrayal and how to live a life worth living. Mr. Forrester does an excellent job with creating mood and taking you into the minds of the characters - both those that existed and those he created. You are left thinking about what you would have done in similar situations. It was a very difficult book to put down and I must admit to a couple of very late nights reading. I'm very sorry to see the end of this particular journey into the reign of Elizabeth I.
4.5
William's house is being watched day and night by Walsingham for Cecil and by a group of murderous woman for Lady Percy who is going mad with her desire for revenge against Anne Boleyn. She wants that certificate and will stop at nothing to get it. What she does not count on is William Harley.
This book, like the first two takes some serious liberties with history but the story is so good you really don't care. It's more of a character study than it is a retelling of late Tudor times. There is much to be considered on the nature of religion, loyalty, life, love and betrayal and how to live a life worth living. Mr. Forrester does an excellent job with creating mood and taking you into the minds of the characters - both those that existed and those he created. You are left thinking about what you would have done in similar situations. It was a very difficult book to put down and I must admit to a couple of very late nights reading. I'm very sorry to see the end of this particular journey into the reign of Elizabeth I.
4.5
May 4, 2015
The last book in the Clarenceux trilogy, The Final Sacrament by James Forrester, is quite a dark and grim tale as the beleaguered William Harley, Clarenceux King of Arms, has to make decisions regarding the document was entrusted to him in a previous instalment and which, if placed in the wrong hands, could bring down the throne and kingdom.
The Catholics want it for their purposes, as do Walsingham and Cecil – the Queen’s Privy Councillors, men who, supposedly, are on Clarenceux’s side. But as friends betray him and those set to guard him seem more intent on guarding something else, and his family is threatened, desperation grows. William no longer knows whom he can trust.
Death and danger stalk his every move and when it enters his home, he has no choice but to take drastic measures.
This has been a good series. Written by Ian Mortimer, whose non-fiction books (The Time Traveller’s Guides to Medieval England and Elizabethan England and The Fears of Henry IV among others) I think are brilliant, his strength lies more in the realm of fact than fiction.
While this is a engaging tale in many regards, it does become convoluted in spots and sometimes a character’s motivation is questionable.
Overall, however, Forrester, as one would expect, evokes the period so well and doesn’t baulk from revealing the dark underbelly and cruelty of this period.
For anyone who likes a rollicking but bleak read.
The Catholics want it for their purposes, as do Walsingham and Cecil – the Queen’s Privy Councillors, men who, supposedly, are on Clarenceux’s side. But as friends betray him and those set to guard him seem more intent on guarding something else, and his family is threatened, desperation grows. William no longer knows whom he can trust.
Death and danger stalk his every move and when it enters his home, he has no choice but to take drastic measures.
This has been a good series. Written by Ian Mortimer, whose non-fiction books (The Time Traveller’s Guides to Medieval England and Elizabethan England and The Fears of Henry IV among others) I think are brilliant, his strength lies more in the realm of fact than fiction.
While this is a engaging tale in many regards, it does become convoluted in spots and sometimes a character’s motivation is questionable.
Overall, however, Forrester, as one would expect, evokes the period so well and doesn’t baulk from revealing the dark underbelly and cruelty of this period.
For anyone who likes a rollicking but bleak read.
December 8, 2013
The Final Sacrament is the third and final book of the excellent trilogy that began with Sacred Treason. It is Elizabethan London and those following the Catholic religion are not safe. William Harley, Clarenceux King of Arms and herald to Queen Elizabeth is a secret Catholic and holder of a document that could bring Queen Elizabeth down. Catholic rebels want the document to put their own Catholic ruler on the thrown and will stop at nothing to make it happen, including kidnapping Clarenceux’s wife and daughter. Clarenceux knows the stakes are high and will stop at nothing to get his family back together.
I enjoyed this action packed novel, although I did find it rather sad. But it would have been a sad time to live in. I enjoyed the entire trilogy. It really got me thinking about what it would have been like to have been a common person living during such perilous time, and how lucky I am to live in a time and place where I can practice my religion without fear of persecution.
Overall, The Final Sacrament was a thought provoking action-packed historical fiction novel. I highly recommend it and the entire trilogy.
Source: Review Copy from Sourcebooks -Thanks!
This review was first posted on my blog at: http://www.lauragerold.blogspot.com/2...
I enjoyed this action packed novel, although I did find it rather sad. But it would have been a sad time to live in. I enjoyed the entire trilogy. It really got me thinking about what it would have been like to have been a common person living during such perilous time, and how lucky I am to live in a time and place where I can practice my religion without fear of persecution.
Overall, The Final Sacrament was a thought provoking action-packed historical fiction novel. I highly recommend it and the entire trilogy.
Source: Review Copy from Sourcebooks -Thanks!
This review was first posted on my blog at: http://www.lauragerold.blogspot.com/2...
September 13, 2013
As is well known, the author publishes his non-fiction as Ian Mortimer and his fiction as James Forrester. I really like his non-fiction works, so I was eager to read his non-fiction. I was not aware that this book is the last of a trilogy, but it is perfectly readably in itself.
I have mixed feelings about it. The book is remarkable for its rendering of the Elizabethan period, and the author goes to great length to immerse the reader in it. This alone makes it worth reading. The emphasis on the cruelty of this period may be a bit overdone, however, as it becomes a too relentless catalogue of abuse and death. But the lead characters manage to be convincing as persons of their time, but connect to the modern reader.
Alas, the plot, while entertaining, is not convincing enough. The plot device itself is acceptable and believable, but the action that has been arranged around it feels needlessly complicated. It does manage to work itself to an interesting end, keeping the reader in suspense to the last page.
I have mixed feelings about it. The book is remarkable for its rendering of the Elizabethan period, and the author goes to great length to immerse the reader in it. This alone makes it worth reading. The emphasis on the cruelty of this period may be a bit overdone, however, as it becomes a too relentless catalogue of abuse and death. But the lead characters manage to be convincing as persons of their time, but connect to the modern reader.
Alas, the plot, while entertaining, is not convincing enough. The plot device itself is acceptable and believable, but the action that has been arranged around it feels needlessly complicated. It does manage to work itself to an interesting end, keeping the reader in suspense to the last page.
September 3, 2015
Review - I loved the absent presence of the Countess of Northumberland. She's portrayed by Forrester exactly how I imagined her to be - cold and calculating, willing to do anything to prove that her 'husband' was having an affair with Anne Boleyn, and that the Protestant queen was therefore illegitimate. It's a very interesting concept, whether Anne and Henry Percy were ever engaged, and what that does to Elizabeth I. I didn't think that this book was as good as Sacred Treason but it was better than The Roots of Betrayal. It's a fitting ending to what was a very interesting trilogy to read. I loved the idea of using women as the means to destroy Clarenceux.
Genre? - Historical / Mystery / Action / Drama
Characters? - William Harley / Clarenceux King of Arms / William Cecil / Francis Walsingham / Mary Countess of Northumberland / Elizabeth I / John Greystoke
Setting? - London (England)
Series? - Clarenceux #3
Recommend? - Yes
Rating - 17/20
Genre? - Historical / Mystery / Action / Drama
Characters? - William Harley / Clarenceux King of Arms / William Cecil / Francis Walsingham / Mary Countess of Northumberland / Elizabeth I / John Greystoke
Setting? - London (England)
Series? - Clarenceux #3
Recommend? - Yes
Rating - 17/20
February 2, 2016
Three and a half stars to this, I think, because it was a complex read. I have loved James Forrester's work, but this one is his darkest yet and it found me in a bleak state anyway, so it was always going to be a depressing experience. As usual the description of life in sixteenth century London is grim and wonderfully drawn. The dialogue is spot on: you know you're in Elizabethan times, but not overwhelmingly so. The author provides some interesting notes after the end of the story, arguing his case for using the past as a background to fiction rather than a representation of fact, and in my opinion he is justified in his view. But it is the tortured character of Clarenceux which stays in the mind after the book has ended. A man tortured (mentally and sometimes physically) by his circumstances and surroundings, then hung out to dry in emotional terms. An honest and thought-provoking read. Would I read it again? Ah... time will tell!
October 18, 2013
I really enjoyed the first two books in this trilogy, Sacred Treason (book 1) and The Roots of Betrayal (book 2). Those two books took on some twists and turns that were unexpected and quite enjoyable for me to read.
So I was really looking forward to this third book. I kept waiting for that twist or turn and none ever came. I was a bit disappointed. Even more disappointed about Rebecca Machyn because I really liked her a lot.
I was also hoping to hear more about the swashbuckler pirate in book 2, but alas, he was gone for good. But I’m not so sure… I have my suspicions about that young boy with an uncanny ability to ‘sense’ things.
- See more at Found Not Lost: http://jmomfinds.amoores.com/2013/10/the-final-sacrament-by-james-forrester/
So I was really looking forward to this third book. I kept waiting for that twist or turn and none ever came. I was a bit disappointed. Even more disappointed about Rebecca Machyn because I really liked her a lot.
I was also hoping to hear more about the swashbuckler pirate in book 2, but alas, he was gone for good. But I’m not so sure… I have my suspicions about that young boy with an uncanny ability to ‘sense’ things.
- See more at Found Not Lost: http://jmomfinds.amoores.com/2013/10/the-final-sacrament-by-james-forrester/
June 15, 2015
The final book in a trilogy the plot begins with Anne Boleyn's betrothal to Henry Percy - and the ramifications thereof. The plot which follows is plausible and presents the reader with an equally plausible sixteenth century backdrop. Life is difficult and made more difficult by Walsingham, Lady Percy and conspiracy for or against Elizabeth. The main protagonist has to manoeuvre these difficulties in order to stay alive - not easy for a Catholic in the reign of Elizabeth as the problem of the succession loomed ever larger. An excellent read. I enjoyed it very much.
December 3, 2016
i have read the first two novels in this trilogy so felt I had to read this last one, and as with the others I really enjoyed the intrigues continuing into this book. As the book started with a bit of the ending I felt that Clarenceaux wasn't destined to survive but.... who knows? I still think that despite the last chapter, there is maybe an element of wishing and hoping that Clarenceaux lives to fight another day. But equally, the author may have decided that this book in the trilogy ought to bring the whole saga to a final conclusion
January 7, 2013
I was not much impressed by the third and last part of trilogy. It feels as Forester just wanted to finish the story and this book was intended just for this. However it could be done in 100 pages which are the last of the book. All stuff before that is pretty boring and redundant. Too much of sensual repeating about love and fate and no action. First and second books have a better mix and enough intrigue to keep you reading. This one lacked that.
October 31, 2013
The Final Sacrament is the concluding volume in the Clarenceux Trilogy. For me this was the best book of the three. Queen Elizabeth's crown is in the balance and William Harley has the document that could make or break it. A document that says that Anne Boleyn married Henry Percy which would make Queen Elizabeth I illegitimate.
This book is full of action, and great Tudor period mystery. If you enjoy the Tudor period this series is perfect for you.
This book is full of action, and great Tudor period mystery. If you enjoy the Tudor period this series is perfect for you.
April 5, 2014
The Final Sacrament, the third book in the triology was an excellent read. It has been a great adventure! The author made great effort to represent the past realistically. I was intrigued by the descriptions and felt as though I was there....I enjoyed reading of the woman's role in society during the 1500s and was amazed at the violence against women, as well as the sexist attitudes...a learning experience....
September 23, 2012
This was the third book about the turbulent times of Elizabeth's reign and all thhe usual suspects are there, but the stirybrevolves around a Catholic being in possession of a damaging document, but being noble and loyal Elizabeth despite the dangers ti himself, friends and his family. I did enjoy the series a lot altho thebrpthe endnwasnmore tragic than it had ti be
February 15, 2015
Finally all becomes clear in The Final Sacrament by James Forrester. William Harley still possesses a vellum that could threaten the Queen. You really have to pay attention while reading. What a world the Elizabethans lived in. Dirty and dangerous, changing. I can't say much or I'd give thee ending away.
October 23, 2012
lastest installment of james forrester elizabethan thriller with all the politics of court, william harley pushed to the limited to keep safe a document which could bring down the Queen, fast paced storyline and how william harley decided which way to go , well worth reading
March 15, 2013
I didn't realise that this was the third book in a trilogy, but I may well look out the other two. Forrester is a very gifted writer, and this is a real tear-jerker. But the plot is based on a dubious premise and I had to skim the last page - too emotional.
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