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King's Fool Mystery #3
Rebellious Grace
Henry VIII's court jester Will Somers turns reluctant inquisitor once again when a grotesque murder within the palace walls is linked to the Pilgrimage of Grace rebellion in this gripping Tudor mystery.
1536, London. The gruesome murder of a servant in the king's palace, his throat savagely cut, has brought fear to the court of Henry VIII. When the man's body is then dug up from the churchyard and disembowelled two weeks later, Will Somers, the king's jester, is horrified. What terrible mischief is now afoot under the king's roof?
With Henry VIII distracted by The Pilgrimage of Grace, the religious revolt led by Robert Aske in protest at the king turning his back on the Catholic faith, Will becomes reluctant inquisitor once again. As he attempts to unmask a murderous knave, Will uncovers a chilling link between one of Queen Jane Seymour's precious jewels, the rebellion and the dead man. Is a shocking act of treachery behind a grotesque killing?
Perfect for fans of stunning Tudor mysteries and historical dramas featuring witty and tenacious sleuths, and bursting with betrayal, politics and passion from the likes of Paul Doherty Michael Jecks,, C.J. Sansom and Philippa Gregory.
1536, London. The gruesome murder of a servant in the king's palace, his throat savagely cut, has brought fear to the court of Henry VIII. When the man's body is then dug up from the churchyard and disembowelled two weeks later, Will Somers, the king's jester, is horrified. What terrible mischief is now afoot under the king's roof?
With Henry VIII distracted by The Pilgrimage of Grace, the religious revolt led by Robert Aske in protest at the king turning his back on the Catholic faith, Will becomes reluctant inquisitor once again. As he attempts to unmask a murderous knave, Will uncovers a chilling link between one of Queen Jane Seymour's precious jewels, the rebellion and the dead man. Is a shocking act of treachery behind a grotesque killing?
Perfect for fans of stunning Tudor mysteries and historical dramas featuring witty and tenacious sleuths, and bursting with betrayal, politics and passion from the likes of Paul Doherty Michael Jecks,, C.J. Sansom and Philippa Gregory.
224 pages, Hardcover
Published January 7, 2025
6 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
About the author
Jeri Westerson
51 books431 followersLos Angeles native JERI WESTERSON currently writes two new series: a Tudor mystery series, the King’s Fool Mysteries, with Henry VIII’s real court jester Will Somers as the sleuth and a Sherlockian pastiche series called An Irregular Detective Mystery, with one of Holmes’ former Baker Street Irregulars opening his own detective agency. She’s also written fifteen Crispin Guest Medieval Noir Mysteries, a series nominated for thirteen awards from the Agatha, to the Macavity, to the Shamus. She’s written several paranormal series (including a gaslamp-steampunk fantasy series), standalone historical novels, and had stories in several anthologies, the latest of which was included in SOUTH CENTRAL NOIR, an Akashic Noir anthology. She has served as president of the SoCal Chapter of Mystery Writers of America, president and vice president for two chapters of Sisters in Crime (Orange County and Los Angeles), and is also a founding member of the SoCal chapter of the Historical Novel Society. See JeriWesterson.com for discussion guides, book trailers, and more.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
December 11, 2024
Jeri Westerson's King's Fool mysteries draw on all sorts of interesting material. They're set during the reign of Henry VII, and I suspect that eventually the series will have included all six of his wives. The fool is an interesting character because he can speak difficult truths—as long as he appears to be jesting. And this fool in particular is bisexual, so the romantic and erotic possibilities are many.
As the title suggests, this volume is set during the Pilgrimage of Grace, a movement to return England to Catholicism after the execution of Anne Boleyn. Those participating in the "Pilgrimage," really an uprising, are sure they are acting in both God's and the king's best interests. But, now that Henry is the head of the church in England, questioning the new Protestant faith is equivalent to questioning Henry himself. And Henry does not like to be questioned, verbally or through actions.
Will Somers, the King's fool, has been charged with solving the murder of one of Queen Jane Seymour's retainers. While Will investigates, Robert Aske, leader of the pilgrimage, is spending the Christmas season at court, trying to find an agreement between the King, himself, and Thomas Cromwell. If you know your history, you'll know how that effort winds up.
Setting the novel during the Christmas season allows Westerson to offers feasts, performances, dancing, and general fol-de-rol, which adds to the charm of this novel. It's more or less a "cozy" mystery, though no one in Henry's England can ever feel fully certain of their status and safety.
Rebellious Grace is a good read for those who enjoy historical mysteries, particularly those set in Tudor times, and who don't want the action to get too bloody.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
As the title suggests, this volume is set during the Pilgrimage of Grace, a movement to return England to Catholicism after the execution of Anne Boleyn. Those participating in the "Pilgrimage," really an uprising, are sure they are acting in both God's and the king's best interests. But, now that Henry is the head of the church in England, questioning the new Protestant faith is equivalent to questioning Henry himself. And Henry does not like to be questioned, verbally or through actions.
Will Somers, the King's fool, has been charged with solving the murder of one of Queen Jane Seymour's retainers. While Will investigates, Robert Aske, leader of the pilgrimage, is spending the Christmas season at court, trying to find an agreement between the King, himself, and Thomas Cromwell. If you know your history, you'll know how that effort winds up.
Setting the novel during the Christmas season allows Westerson to offers feasts, performances, dancing, and general fol-de-rol, which adds to the charm of this novel. It's more or less a "cozy" mystery, though no one in Henry's England can ever feel fully certain of their status and safety.
Rebellious Grace is a good read for those who enjoy historical mysteries, particularly those set in Tudor times, and who don't want the action to get too bloody.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
January 7, 2025
Will Somers, court jester and court observer!
The perilous life of Henry VIII‘s court jester Will Somers continues to be complex. Will himself is both discerning, convoluted and endearing.
Will’s devotion to Henry and the Princesses Mary and Elizabeth is real.
His struggles with the love he has for Marion his wife and for Nicholas Patchett, Lord Hammond. A quandary! He loves them both and yet he has said to Marion he will stay true to his love for her, not love his paramours. Ahh! Will is a torn man.
Geoffrey Payne, a courtier close to Queen Jane (Seymour) has been brutally killed, buried and then dug up again and his body disembowelled. Will has declared he will find the murderer.
We are led down an intricate path, part of which includes Queen Jane’s fool, Janie Foole. Westerson’s note on the role of fools is fascinating reading.
I enjoyed Will’s interactions with the Windsor Herald of Arms in Ordinary, Charles Wriothesley, an observant man, and chronicler of the times, as they transpire without embellishment.
Tension underlying all this comes from happenings in the North. Barrister Robert Aske and his Pilgrimage of Grace, a march of nine thousand who swore an Oath of Honourable Men. They wanted to be able to practise their Catholic Faith. Henry’s advisors wanted him to ask Aske to the palace to negotiate. Will is uneasy.
The corridors of Windsor can be dark and deadly.
Another intriguing and well researched novel by Westerson chronicling these times, practices and events.
A Severn House ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
The perilous life of Henry VIII‘s court jester Will Somers continues to be complex. Will himself is both discerning, convoluted and endearing.
Will’s devotion to Henry and the Princesses Mary and Elizabeth is real.
His struggles with the love he has for Marion his wife and for Nicholas Patchett, Lord Hammond. A quandary! He loves them both and yet he has said to Marion he will stay true to his love for her, not love his paramours. Ahh! Will is a torn man.
Geoffrey Payne, a courtier close to Queen Jane (Seymour) has been brutally killed, buried and then dug up again and his body disembowelled. Will has declared he will find the murderer.
We are led down an intricate path, part of which includes Queen Jane’s fool, Janie Foole. Westerson’s note on the role of fools is fascinating reading.
I enjoyed Will’s interactions with the Windsor Herald of Arms in Ordinary, Charles Wriothesley, an observant man, and chronicler of the times, as they transpire without embellishment.
Tension underlying all this comes from happenings in the North. Barrister Robert Aske and his Pilgrimage of Grace, a march of nine thousand who swore an Oath of Honourable Men. They wanted to be able to practise their Catholic Faith. Henry’s advisors wanted him to ask Aske to the palace to negotiate. Will is uneasy.
The corridors of Windsor can be dark and deadly.
Another intriguing and well researched novel by Westerson chronicling these times, practices and events.
A Severn House ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
February 12, 2025
I love this series' inside view of Henry VIII's court and Will Somers is a treat.
January 10, 2025
Will Somers, the King’s Fool of this series, finds himself hoist on his own petard in this particular case. After his success at investigating murders on his own in the two previous books in this series, Courting Dragons and The Twilight Queen, this time around his king has ordered him to look into the death of one of Will’s fellow royal servants.
Not as a result of the original murder, but because some ghoulish or desperate person disinterred the corpse of the late Geoffrey Payne in order to disembowel the man two weeks after his burial. Someone seriously had it out for the victim, and King Henry VIII has tasked his fool, Will Somers, with discovering who would do such a terrible thing – and especially why.
Finding out who might have wanted the man dead is one thing, figuring out who hated him so much that they desecrated his corpse is something else altogether.
Evidence from the murder has long been washed away, but Will knows THAT is where he must begin, with a trail long grown as cold as the winter winds whipping through the palace. But Will, as the king’s own, personal, fool, has permission to poke his nose in anywhere and everywhere at court. With his king’s commission, he has the warrant to ask all the questions he wants, as well.
Even as every single noble he even attempts to talk with makes him all too aware that they will remember this slight and take it out on him whenever the first opportunity arises. Because even if they’re guilty they know they can’t be punished – but sooner or later, Will Somers most certainly can.
But Will can’t resist the puzzle – no matter how much he wishes that he could. The more he digs into the problem, the more it seems like that problem is much bigger than the ‘mere’ death of one of the queen’s own royal servants – not that Will Somers, a royal servant himself, would ever see it so.
That his best witness is unreliable by their very nature only adds to the conundrum, as each clue he teases out takes his investigation one more rung up the ladder of people that Will knows he cannot touch – even if they are guilty.
Especially if they have involved a member of the court so high that they cannot even be questioned, let alone touched, at all.
Escape Rating B+: Historical mysteries like this one, and the King’s Fool series of which it is the third entry, have to walk a tightrope over the historical era they portray. That’s especially true in this case, as Will Somers, the ‘King’s Fool’ of the title, was a real person in the court of Henry VIII, and his position and duties are known to history – if not the details of his days and nights.
At the same time, as an integral part of the court, Will was, by definition of his duties, in a position to literally see all and know all about the doings of the high and mighty among whom he served.
Which is very much where that tightrope comes in. His job, not as a ‘court jester’ but as the king’s own fool, required him to be in the rooms where Henry VIII’s reign happened – while at the same time being ignored as beneath the notice of the courtiers in that room with him.
The conceit of this series has put Somers in the sort of position that modern detectives would envy. He is intimately aware of all the ‘goings on’ in court, and he has been part of the court more than enough years to know how things work, where the nobility stash the skeletons in their personal closets and where the metaphorical and occasionally physical bodies are buried.
At the same time, he’s an outsider. He’s not himself a noble and he never will be. He’s a servant and all too frequently reminded of that fact. He’s beneath notice – and yet, he has the ear of the king. He can go everywhere and see everything and continue to slither out of trouble as long as he doesn’t go too far for the king to allow him to keep both his position and his head.
The story gets told, and the mystery gets solved, through Will Somers’ intimate perspective on the court and the people in it. It very much feels as if the mystery is second to the detailed and loving portrait of the court and its denizens. Not that Will doesn’t manage to solve the mystery while getting into as much danger as any contemporary detective, but that both the solution and the danger are tightly wrapped in the historical period.
I enjoy this series a LOT because this is a period that has always fascinated me. The history that it dives into so deeply is recognizable and familiar and the ‘you are there’ feeling is one that I’m eager to be a part of. I hope it works just as well for readers who are experiencing this era for the first time.
The series continues to move through the reign of Henry VIII based on that old doggerel about his wives, “Divorced, beheaded, died. Divorced, beheaded, survived.” The next book in the series, tentatively titled Beloved Sister but recently changed to Devil’s Gambit, will be set during Henry VIII’s brief marriage to Anne of Cleves, which she survived in style.
In the meantime, I’m also looking very much forward to Six Wild Crowns by Holly Race coming in June, the start of an epic fantasy series that also takes its inspiration from the court of Henry VIII and his wives.
I am eagerly anticipating both of these upcoming books!
Originally published at Reading Reality
Not as a result of the original murder, but because some ghoulish or desperate person disinterred the corpse of the late Geoffrey Payne in order to disembowel the man two weeks after his burial. Someone seriously had it out for the victim, and King Henry VIII has tasked his fool, Will Somers, with discovering who would do such a terrible thing – and especially why.
Finding out who might have wanted the man dead is one thing, figuring out who hated him so much that they desecrated his corpse is something else altogether.
Evidence from the murder has long been washed away, but Will knows THAT is where he must begin, with a trail long grown as cold as the winter winds whipping through the palace. But Will, as the king’s own, personal, fool, has permission to poke his nose in anywhere and everywhere at court. With his king’s commission, he has the warrant to ask all the questions he wants, as well.
Even as every single noble he even attempts to talk with makes him all too aware that they will remember this slight and take it out on him whenever the first opportunity arises. Because even if they’re guilty they know they can’t be punished – but sooner or later, Will Somers most certainly can.
But Will can’t resist the puzzle – no matter how much he wishes that he could. The more he digs into the problem, the more it seems like that problem is much bigger than the ‘mere’ death of one of the queen’s own royal servants – not that Will Somers, a royal servant himself, would ever see it so.
That his best witness is unreliable by their very nature only adds to the conundrum, as each clue he teases out takes his investigation one more rung up the ladder of people that Will knows he cannot touch – even if they are guilty.
Especially if they have involved a member of the court so high that they cannot even be questioned, let alone touched, at all.
Escape Rating B+: Historical mysteries like this one, and the King’s Fool series of which it is the third entry, have to walk a tightrope over the historical era they portray. That’s especially true in this case, as Will Somers, the ‘King’s Fool’ of the title, was a real person in the court of Henry VIII, and his position and duties are known to history – if not the details of his days and nights.
At the same time, as an integral part of the court, Will was, by definition of his duties, in a position to literally see all and know all about the doings of the high and mighty among whom he served.
Which is very much where that tightrope comes in. His job, not as a ‘court jester’ but as the king’s own fool, required him to be in the rooms where Henry VIII’s reign happened – while at the same time being ignored as beneath the notice of the courtiers in that room with him.
The conceit of this series has put Somers in the sort of position that modern detectives would envy. He is intimately aware of all the ‘goings on’ in court, and he has been part of the court more than enough years to know how things work, where the nobility stash the skeletons in their personal closets and where the metaphorical and occasionally physical bodies are buried.
At the same time, he’s an outsider. He’s not himself a noble and he never will be. He’s a servant and all too frequently reminded of that fact. He’s beneath notice – and yet, he has the ear of the king. He can go everywhere and see everything and continue to slither out of trouble as long as he doesn’t go too far for the king to allow him to keep both his position and his head.
The story gets told, and the mystery gets solved, through Will Somers’ intimate perspective on the court and the people in it. It very much feels as if the mystery is second to the detailed and loving portrait of the court and its denizens. Not that Will doesn’t manage to solve the mystery while getting into as much danger as any contemporary detective, but that both the solution and the danger are tightly wrapped in the historical period.
I enjoy this series a LOT because this is a period that has always fascinated me. The history that it dives into so deeply is recognizable and familiar and the ‘you are there’ feeling is one that I’m eager to be a part of. I hope it works just as well for readers who are experiencing this era for the first time.
The series continues to move through the reign of Henry VIII based on that old doggerel about his wives, “Divorced, beheaded, died. Divorced, beheaded, survived.” The next book in the series, tentatively titled Beloved Sister but recently changed to Devil’s Gambit, will be set during Henry VIII’s brief marriage to Anne of Cleves, which she survived in style.
In the meantime, I’m also looking very much forward to Six Wild Crowns by Holly Race coming in June, the start of an epic fantasy series that also takes its inspiration from the court of Henry VIII and his wives.
I am eagerly anticipating both of these upcoming books!
Originally published at Reading Reality
February 22, 2025
*3.75/5 Stars*
Rebellious Grace is the third entry in A King's Fool Mystery series, a mystery series that revolves around the little-known life of the king's fool, Will Somers. I enjoy how the author fleshes out the character to fit into King Henry VIII's world, and as someone who had entry into the king's personal chambers, gives the reader insight into how the world worked during this tumultuous time period.
Will himself is an interesting character and I enjoy the precariousness of his position as he balances keeping the court entertained with the seriousness of some of his jests, jests thrown to enlighten people as to what is actually happening and to give warnings. The relationship between Will and another member of the court ramps up, and Will struggles between being faithful to his wife and his longings and desires. I liked the high emphasis on the relationship between Will and his wife, and the difficulties they have trying to navigate court life as well as their personal relationship. Because I am so familiar with the time period, I had no problem distinguishing between real historical figures and imagined ones, and I like how the author incorporates what is known about their lives into the story. It does make for fascinating reading and I was impressed with the historical detail and amount of research that is included in such a short book.
The plot itself focused on the Pilgrimage of Grace, led by Robert Aske, an event that took place over Christmas 1536, in the aftermath of Anne Boleyn's execution. With the intention of reconciling the Catholic Church, the members are convinced they are acting in both the king's and God's interests, but King Henry struggles with what to do as to question the Church is to question him. And while the events of the Pilgrimage played more of a background role, it did have a profound effect on the mystery and who was involved in the actual murder Will was investigating. Because this was set during the Christmas season, this allowed the author to portray the characters within many festive moments and includes a lot of great descriptions of what court life was like during this time period. Will's task to solve the murder was made especially difficult as there were so many additional people at court. But he was one of the few people who could enter pretty much any room in the palace, and investigate quietly, putting himself at risk.
Rebellious Grace had a believable mystery at its core, reflecting the trauma the execution of Anne Boleyn had on the court as well as the Pilgrimage of Grace. Because of these events, members of the court were trying to figure out the new shift in power and new alliances so I really enjoyed the underlying tension that lay beneath the entire book. The character of Will Somers gives the reader a perspective that is quite fascinating; one as an observer who attends all the events, but will never be allowed to participate, and the other, as an outsider who sees all and knows quite a bit. And although the mystery never plays the central role in the story, it does rear its ugly head through Will's investigations as well as through his relationships with others in the court.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
Rebellious Grace is the third entry in A King's Fool Mystery series, a mystery series that revolves around the little-known life of the king's fool, Will Somers. I enjoy how the author fleshes out the character to fit into King Henry VIII's world, and as someone who had entry into the king's personal chambers, gives the reader insight into how the world worked during this tumultuous time period.
Will himself is an interesting character and I enjoy the precariousness of his position as he balances keeping the court entertained with the seriousness of some of his jests, jests thrown to enlighten people as to what is actually happening and to give warnings. The relationship between Will and another member of the court ramps up, and Will struggles between being faithful to his wife and his longings and desires. I liked the high emphasis on the relationship between Will and his wife, and the difficulties they have trying to navigate court life as well as their personal relationship. Because I am so familiar with the time period, I had no problem distinguishing between real historical figures and imagined ones, and I like how the author incorporates what is known about their lives into the story. It does make for fascinating reading and I was impressed with the historical detail and amount of research that is included in such a short book.
The plot itself focused on the Pilgrimage of Grace, led by Robert Aske, an event that took place over Christmas 1536, in the aftermath of Anne Boleyn's execution. With the intention of reconciling the Catholic Church, the members are convinced they are acting in both the king's and God's interests, but King Henry struggles with what to do as to question the Church is to question him. And while the events of the Pilgrimage played more of a background role, it did have a profound effect on the mystery and who was involved in the actual murder Will was investigating. Because this was set during the Christmas season, this allowed the author to portray the characters within many festive moments and includes a lot of great descriptions of what court life was like during this time period. Will's task to solve the murder was made especially difficult as there were so many additional people at court. But he was one of the few people who could enter pretty much any room in the palace, and investigate quietly, putting himself at risk.
Rebellious Grace had a believable mystery at its core, reflecting the trauma the execution of Anne Boleyn had on the court as well as the Pilgrimage of Grace. Because of these events, members of the court were trying to figure out the new shift in power and new alliances so I really enjoyed the underlying tension that lay beneath the entire book. The character of Will Somers gives the reader a perspective that is quite fascinating; one as an observer who attends all the events, but will never be allowed to participate, and the other, as an outsider who sees all and knows quite a bit. And although the mystery never plays the central role in the story, it does rear its ugly head through Will's investigations as well as through his relationships with others in the court.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
January 9, 2025
Christmas is a time of merriment and joy unless you are in the court of Henry VIII in 1536. Then it is a time of stress and murder. Henry’s second wife Anne Boleyn has only been dead for a few months while his third wife Jane Seymour is slowly adjusting to her new role as queen. A rebellion known as the Pilgrimage of Grace is taking over northern England and the leader Robert Aske wants to visit the court to discuss matters with King Henry VIII. To top it all off, a servant of Queen Jane has been murdered and the only one who can solve the crime is a fool, Will Somers. Can Will Somers connect the dots and save those closest to him, or will the treasonous act be another downfall in such a tumultuous year? This is the premise for the third book in the A King’s Fool Mystery series, “Rebellious Grace” by Jeri Westerson.
Thank you Severn House and Net Galley for sending me a copy of this novel. This is the second book in the A King’s Fool Mystery series I have read, the first being The Twilight Queen. While I had issues with The Twilight Queen when I saw that Westerson would cover the Pilgrimage of Grace and Jane Seymour in her next novel, I decided to give the series another chance.
We begin with the discovery of the body. The male servant Geoffrey Payne had his neck slashed in a rather unusual way, but there was no murder weapon by the body. The body is quickly buried and the investigation is left to Sir Nicholas Carew. However, this is not the only distraction at court, as Will Somers will soon find out. There is a real divide between Protestants and Catholics throughout the kingdom and while Queen Jane Seymour acts as a peacemaker at court, in other areas of England, the Pilgrimage of Grace is on the move to bring back Catholicism, led by Robert Aske. Thomas Cromwell has the idea of inviting Robert Aske to join the Christmas celebrations to discuss matters. And then there is the fact that Elizabeth and Mary are joining their father at court as a way to reconcile. So, you know, a very quiet Christmas.
With the craziness of court, Will Somers is of course caught directly in the middle of the mess. He is not only trying to cheer up his friend and employer King Henry VIII, but after it is discovered that poor Mr. Payne’s corpse was dug back up and disemboweled, he is asked to assist Sir Nicholas Carew with the investigation. To add even more drama, there is a connection between the dead man, the queen’s jewels, and the Seymour family. Will has to juggle all of this plus his ever-complicated love life between his wife Marion and his lover Nicholas Pachett.
I loved this mystery, especially the additions of the characters John Blanke, Jane Foole, Jane Seymour, and Edward Seymour. It was so gripping and well-balanced that I finished it in a day, which I hadn’t done with a book in a while. If you want a delightful murder mystery set in the court of Henry VIII or if you have read the other books in the A King’s Fool Mystery series, I highly recommend you read, “Rebellious Grace” by Jeri Westerson.
Thank you Severn House and Net Galley for sending me a copy of this novel. This is the second book in the A King’s Fool Mystery series I have read, the first being The Twilight Queen. While I had issues with The Twilight Queen when I saw that Westerson would cover the Pilgrimage of Grace and Jane Seymour in her next novel, I decided to give the series another chance.
We begin with the discovery of the body. The male servant Geoffrey Payne had his neck slashed in a rather unusual way, but there was no murder weapon by the body. The body is quickly buried and the investigation is left to Sir Nicholas Carew. However, this is not the only distraction at court, as Will Somers will soon find out. There is a real divide between Protestants and Catholics throughout the kingdom and while Queen Jane Seymour acts as a peacemaker at court, in other areas of England, the Pilgrimage of Grace is on the move to bring back Catholicism, led by Robert Aske. Thomas Cromwell has the idea of inviting Robert Aske to join the Christmas celebrations to discuss matters. And then there is the fact that Elizabeth and Mary are joining their father at court as a way to reconcile. So, you know, a very quiet Christmas.
With the craziness of court, Will Somers is of course caught directly in the middle of the mess. He is not only trying to cheer up his friend and employer King Henry VIII, but after it is discovered that poor Mr. Payne’s corpse was dug back up and disemboweled, he is asked to assist Sir Nicholas Carew with the investigation. To add even more drama, there is a connection between the dead man, the queen’s jewels, and the Seymour family. Will has to juggle all of this plus his ever-complicated love life between his wife Marion and his lover Nicholas Pachett.
I loved this mystery, especially the additions of the characters John Blanke, Jane Foole, Jane Seymour, and Edward Seymour. It was so gripping and well-balanced that I finished it in a day, which I hadn’t done with a book in a while. If you want a delightful murder mystery set in the court of Henry VIII or if you have read the other books in the A King’s Fool Mystery series, I highly recommend you read, “Rebellious Grace” by Jeri Westerson.
April 15, 2025
I have been a big fan of Jeri Westerson’s writing ever since I discovered her Crispin Guest series, which is one of my all-time favorite mystery series. While I was sad to see that one end (though it had a perfect ending), I was happy to discover her new King’s Fool Series with the release of the second book, The Twilight Queen, last year. I look forward to one day having time to go back and read the first book.
The latest book in this delightful new series is Rebellious Grace. The main character, and reluctant detective, is Will Somers, Henry VIII’s jester—who was a real person, but Jeri adds to the character to flesh him out. Another KRL reviewer reviewed the first book in this series, Courting Dragons (you can click here to go read that review), but I will say that I didn’t feel the least bit lost reading book two and three without having read the first one.
Set in 1536 London, once again Will is called upon to solve a murder within the palace walls—this time it is the grotesque murder of one of the servants, and one that is linked to the Pilgrimage of Grace rebellion. The Pilgrimage of Grace was the religious revolt led by Robert Aske in protest of the king turning his back on the Catholic faith. The Pilgrimage has Henry VIII distracted so he asks Will to find out what has happened. As Will attempts to unmask a murderer, he uncovers a chilling link between one of Queen Jane Seymour’s precious jewels, the rebellion, and the dead man. He fears that an act of treachery could be behind the killing. He also worries that someone is using this to cause trouble for Queen Jane.
The history in these stories is fascinating—I know just enough to recognize some events and people and enjoy learning more. Jeri does a perfect job of bringing it all to life and providing just enough detail to keep things interesting, but not make it feel like a history lesson. The mystery was filled with plenty of twists and turns that I never saw coming. My favorite thing, as always with Jeri’s books, is the characters. The complicated relationship that Will has with his wife and his lover Nicholas—which has gotten even more complicated in this book—keeps me reading just as much as the mystery. I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
The latest book in this delightful new series is Rebellious Grace. The main character, and reluctant detective, is Will Somers, Henry VIII’s jester—who was a real person, but Jeri adds to the character to flesh him out. Another KRL reviewer reviewed the first book in this series, Courting Dragons (you can click here to go read that review), but I will say that I didn’t feel the least bit lost reading book two and three without having read the first one.
Set in 1536 London, once again Will is called upon to solve a murder within the palace walls—this time it is the grotesque murder of one of the servants, and one that is linked to the Pilgrimage of Grace rebellion. The Pilgrimage of Grace was the religious revolt led by Robert Aske in protest of the king turning his back on the Catholic faith. The Pilgrimage has Henry VIII distracted so he asks Will to find out what has happened. As Will attempts to unmask a murderer, he uncovers a chilling link between one of Queen Jane Seymour’s precious jewels, the rebellion, and the dead man. He fears that an act of treachery could be behind the killing. He also worries that someone is using this to cause trouble for Queen Jane.
The history in these stories is fascinating—I know just enough to recognize some events and people and enjoy learning more. Jeri does a perfect job of bringing it all to life and providing just enough detail to keep things interesting, but not make it feel like a history lesson. The mystery was filled with plenty of twists and turns that I never saw coming. My favorite thing, as always with Jeri’s books, is the characters. The complicated relationship that Will has with his wife and his lover Nicholas—which has gotten even more complicated in this book—keeps me reading just as much as the mystery. I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
November 28, 2024
This is book 3 of Will Somers, King’s Fool mysteries, and a Jester or Fool must keep his Royal master happy with jokes and amusements, but this is not an easy job when the King is Henry the Eighth.
When a body is found with his throat cut, Will is tasked with investigating the murder. The dead man is a servant to Queen Jane Seymour, could this be a plot against her recent marriage to the King?
Due to his unique position at court, Will is allowed access to all areas. He has been a skilled investigator before, and before long, both Marion, his long suffering wife, and Will’s current paramour, Lord Hammond are all involved in the search for a killer.
The King is distracted by The Pilgrimage of Grace, whereby disaffected Catholics are rebelling against the new Protestant religion and the closure of the Monasteries, which has deprived them of medical care for the sick, education for the children and the loss of alms to help in their poverty. They are led by the lawyer Robert Aske, and Will meets him when he goes to court to see the King.
This is a fascinating look at the fashions, politics and religious upheavals in England in 1536. Will Somers bisexuality has to be kept secret, it is an unlawful act, his wife Marion is a very understanding woman. There is a skilful use of both actual and fictional characters, with enough clues Laid down to tempt the reader. The humour is very bawdy and earthy, the Glossary at the beginning of this book is very helpful.
The term Fool, is not an expression of pity or derision, or used as a term of disability, but used as a term for their innocence, they were respected as being too innocent to be guilty of misdeeds. They were respected for their naivety.
I enjoyed this risqué read, and it was a most unusual murder to be committed. The narrative flows and the characters are very likeable.
I am already looking forward to the next title, Beloved Sister. A five star read.
My thanks to Netgalley and Severn House Publishers for my ARC freely given in return for my honest review. I will leave reviews to Goodreads and Amazon UK upon publication.
When a body is found with his throat cut, Will is tasked with investigating the murder. The dead man is a servant to Queen Jane Seymour, could this be a plot against her recent marriage to the King?
Due to his unique position at court, Will is allowed access to all areas. He has been a skilled investigator before, and before long, both Marion, his long suffering wife, and Will’s current paramour, Lord Hammond are all involved in the search for a killer.
The King is distracted by The Pilgrimage of Grace, whereby disaffected Catholics are rebelling against the new Protestant religion and the closure of the Monasteries, which has deprived them of medical care for the sick, education for the children and the loss of alms to help in their poverty. They are led by the lawyer Robert Aske, and Will meets him when he goes to court to see the King.
This is a fascinating look at the fashions, politics and religious upheavals in England in 1536. Will Somers bisexuality has to be kept secret, it is an unlawful act, his wife Marion is a very understanding woman. There is a skilful use of both actual and fictional characters, with enough clues Laid down to tempt the reader. The humour is very bawdy and earthy, the Glossary at the beginning of this book is very helpful.
The term Fool, is not an expression of pity or derision, or used as a term of disability, but used as a term for their innocence, they were respected as being too innocent to be guilty of misdeeds. They were respected for their naivety.
I enjoyed this risqué read, and it was a most unusual murder to be committed. The narrative flows and the characters are very likeable.
I am already looking forward to the next title, Beloved Sister. A five star read.
My thanks to Netgalley and Severn House Publishers for my ARC freely given in return for my honest review. I will leave reviews to Goodreads and Amazon UK upon publication.
January 8, 2025
Will Somers, Henry VIII’s jester, has been involved in past investigations, putting his wife Marion and his own life in danger. When a servant is murdered he is reluctant to get involved. Then the body is dug up and disembowled and Henry wants to know who is responsible. Members of his court recommend Will investigate, based on his past results. The servant was tied to the Queen and Will calls on Jane Foole, the Queen’s jester, for answers. She ties the murder to a piece of jewelry that Jane Seymour had entrusted to the servant to provide aid to a group of Catholic pilgrims, an act of treason if it was discovered. Will’s solution to the murder could jeopardize the Queen’s life. It also involves members of Henry’s court who wield power and influence with the King. These same men have convinced King Henry to meet with Robert Aske, the leader of The Pilgrimage of Grace, a religious revolt in support of the Catholic faith. Will uses his presence at court and his talents as a jester to temper Henry’s rage against the treasonous group.
Will Somers is a complicated character, by his own admission. He loves Marion, but is also drawn to Nicholas, a young Lord. If their affair is discovered it could lead to a death sentence. Marion is aware of her husband’s activities and is not happy. She knows, however, that he truly loves her. Will’s love and loyalty also belongs to King Henry, who he refers to as Harry and Uncle. It is Will that he calls for when plagued by nightmares to ease his mind and entertain him. Jeri Westerson’s story is one of court intrigues and dark hallways, but it is also filled with Will’s love for Marion, Nicholas and his king. It is historical fiction at its’ best and will appeal to fans of Michael Jecks and C.J. Swanson. I would like to thank NetGalley and Severn House for providing this book.
Will Somers is a complicated character, by his own admission. He loves Marion, but is also drawn to Nicholas, a young Lord. If their affair is discovered it could lead to a death sentence. Marion is aware of her husband’s activities and is not happy. She knows, however, that he truly loves her. Will’s love and loyalty also belongs to King Henry, who he refers to as Harry and Uncle. It is Will that he calls for when plagued by nightmares to ease his mind and entertain him. Jeri Westerson’s story is one of court intrigues and dark hallways, but it is also filled with Will’s love for Marion, Nicholas and his king. It is historical fiction at its’ best and will appeal to fans of Michael Jecks and C.J. Swanson. I would like to thank NetGalley and Severn House for providing this book.
January 7, 2025
London in 1536 sees Christmas fast approaching & King Henry VIII is advised to invite Robert Aske, leader of the Pilgrimage of Grace (a religious protest) to the royal Court. Aske believes it to be an honour but the King & Thomas Cromwell have other ideas. Meanwhile a servant in the Palace is found murdered, his throat slit - strangely it has been cut vertically rather than horizontally - & even worse, his body is dug up from the churchyard & disembowelled two weeks later. What could be behind this gory disinterring? Henry asked Will Somers, the king's jester, to investigate.
I found this to be a really good read. The mystery was interesting enough but the real fascination was the interaction between King Henry VIII & his Fool (& our wily detective) Will Somers. Both Somers & Jane Foole were real people in the Tudor court & I've heard it mentioned before that a Fool could get away with liberties that no other subject could. Here Somers is the King's 'conscience' subtly prodding him to reconcile with his daughter, Lady Mary, & musing aloud about the motives of Robert Aske, leader of the Pilgrimage of Grace. Somers also has his own quandary as he is torn between his affections for his wife & his secret male lover.
This is the third in the series but the first one I've read & for me it worked just as well as a standalone. I think because each one is set in the court of a different wife of Henry VIII, it didn't feel as if I'd missed huge amounts. If you have a rudimentary knowledge of Tudor history, you should be fine. I also adored the character of Somers' dog, Nosewise.
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, Severn House, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
I found this to be a really good read. The mystery was interesting enough but the real fascination was the interaction between King Henry VIII & his Fool (& our wily detective) Will Somers. Both Somers & Jane Foole were real people in the Tudor court & I've heard it mentioned before that a Fool could get away with liberties that no other subject could. Here Somers is the King's 'conscience' subtly prodding him to reconcile with his daughter, Lady Mary, & musing aloud about the motives of Robert Aske, leader of the Pilgrimage of Grace. Somers also has his own quandary as he is torn between his affections for his wife & his secret male lover.
This is the third in the series but the first one I've read & for me it worked just as well as a standalone. I think because each one is set in the court of a different wife of Henry VIII, it didn't feel as if I'd missed huge amounts. If you have a rudimentary knowledge of Tudor history, you should be fine. I also adored the character of Somers' dog, Nosewise.
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, Severn House, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
January 7, 2025
I thank NetGalley and Severn House for an advance reader copy of Rebellious Grace. All opinions and comments are my own.
The King’s Fool is once again in the midst of intrigue and dark dealings at the court of Henry VIII in Rebellious Grace, the third in the Tudor-era books by seasoned historical mystery writer Jeri Westerson, whose Crispin Guest medieval history series is a fan favorite. Jester Will Somers (a historical figure) is fast becoming another Westerson character readers will want to follow.
Will’s personal story takes up a large part of our tale, as his love affair with a court courtier plays out, as it has in the two previous books. In fact, the mystery portion of the book often disappeared. I like my mystery stories to be more balanced, plot-wise.
Everything soon becomes a journey of discovery for Will, as he finds himself in the thick of a murder investigation that touches the highest levels of Tudor society. King Henry plays a large part, as does his queen, and many others who readers will recognize from history (or the TV shows who delight in recording the history). In the end, the “needs of the court” prevails.
I enjoyed Rebellious Grace for its characters and its glimpse into the life of the court of Henry VIII from the eyes of someone who must negotiate a very thin path between pleasing and angering the king. Will Somers continues to make a very good “detective” for the times.
The King’s Fool is once again in the midst of intrigue and dark dealings at the court of Henry VIII in Rebellious Grace, the third in the Tudor-era books by seasoned historical mystery writer Jeri Westerson, whose Crispin Guest medieval history series is a fan favorite. Jester Will Somers (a historical figure) is fast becoming another Westerson character readers will want to follow.
Will’s personal story takes up a large part of our tale, as his love affair with a court courtier plays out, as it has in the two previous books. In fact, the mystery portion of the book often disappeared. I like my mystery stories to be more balanced, plot-wise.
Everything soon becomes a journey of discovery for Will, as he finds himself in the thick of a murder investigation that touches the highest levels of Tudor society. King Henry plays a large part, as does his queen, and many others who readers will recognize from history (or the TV shows who delight in recording the history). In the end, the “needs of the court” prevails.
I enjoyed Rebellious Grace for its characters and its glimpse into the life of the court of Henry VIII from the eyes of someone who must negotiate a very thin path between pleasing and angering the king. Will Somers continues to make a very good “detective” for the times.
December 13, 2024
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Jeri Westerson for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for Rebellious Grace coming out January 7, 2025. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
1536, London. The gruesome murder of a servant in the king's palace, his throat savagely cut, has brought fear to the court of Henry VIII. When the man's body is then dug up from the churchyard and disembowelled two weeks later, Will Somers, the king's jester, is horrified. What terrible mischief is now afoot under the king's roof?
With Henry VIII distracted by The Pilgrimage of Grace, the religious revolt led by Robert Aske in protest at the king turning his back on the Catholic faith, Will becomes reluctant inquisitor once again. As he attempts to unmask a murderous knave, Will uncovers a chilling link between one of Queen Jane Seymour's precious jewels, the rebellion and the dead man. Is a shocking act of treachery behind a grotesque killing?
I haven’t read the other books in the series, but I’ve read another book by this author. I really love her historical mysteries. This book was really cozy to me. I’m obsessed with historical murder mysteries. I love the time period and the intrigue. The characters were really interesting and I loved the royalty involved in the plot.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical murder mysteries!
1536, London. The gruesome murder of a servant in the king's palace, his throat savagely cut, has brought fear to the court of Henry VIII. When the man's body is then dug up from the churchyard and disembowelled two weeks later, Will Somers, the king's jester, is horrified. What terrible mischief is now afoot under the king's roof?
With Henry VIII distracted by The Pilgrimage of Grace, the religious revolt led by Robert Aske in protest at the king turning his back on the Catholic faith, Will becomes reluctant inquisitor once again. As he attempts to unmask a murderous knave, Will uncovers a chilling link between one of Queen Jane Seymour's precious jewels, the rebellion and the dead man. Is a shocking act of treachery behind a grotesque killing?
I haven’t read the other books in the series, but I’ve read another book by this author. I really love her historical mysteries. This book was really cozy to me. I’m obsessed with historical murder mysteries. I love the time period and the intrigue. The characters were really interesting and I loved the royalty involved in the plot.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical murder mysteries!
January 8, 2025
This is the first of Jeri Westerson's books that I have read. The third in a series of a King's Fool Mysteries. It isn't necessary to have read the previous two novels to be able to appreciate the tale that unfolds. This is an enjoyable murder mystery set in the court of Henry VIII during the Christmas period of 1536. Set against the backdrop of the Pilgrimage of Grace and the visit to court of Robert Aske, leader of the rebellion. Will Somers, jester to King Henry is tasked with finding out who committed the gruesome murder of a servant to Queen Jane (Seymour). The mystery of what happened to a brooch of Queen Jane is at the heart of events. Events that could lead to the downfall of yet another queen. This is quite short, being 224 pages long. Much of the storyline is taken up with the complicated personal life of Will, of his wife and lover. However, the story does move along quite nicely as the mystery unfolds, layer by layer. Any fan of Tudor history will recognise many or most of the names of the characters involved. Overall, I enjoyed the book and will happily await further novels in the series.
January 2, 2025
Will Somers is back, and as wily as ever. I find I am liking these books because of the endearing characters (especially Nosewise), despsite the unusual choice of detective - a court jester. One would have thought (as did I initially) that it just wouldn't work - but unaccountably, it does! This is probably due to the author's skill in drawing her characters and embedding them firmly in the hearts of her readers. Even the faintly anachronistic insertion of male/male relationships works as this is not casually accepted by all, which is just as it would have been in Tudor England. The period is accurately portrayed and the reader is thoroughly immersed in time and place. Even HenryVIII is given a bit of a soul, which one doubts he can have had, given his well-documented exploits. It is ironic, as we as rather sad, to read of the Queen and Will's attempts to assist her, when one knows exactly her eventual fate. A thoroughly enjoyable book, and I'm looking forward to Will's next appearance.
January 6, 2025
Will Somers is Henry XIII's jester. His life is circumscribed by whatever Henry wants. Henry is now on Wife #3, Jane Seymour. Henry is waiting for a son. Catherine of Aragon gave him Mary I; Anne Boleyn gave him Elizabeth I, but he wants a son. Both girls were sent away from court, but Jane Seymour has prevailed upon Henry to bring them back. A courtier is murdered and Henry charges Will with figuring out who did it. The odd thing is that the victim had his throat cut vertically, not horizontally and then, after he was buried, his body was dug up and he was disemboweled. Will figures out that someone is looking for a brooch belonging to Jane Seymour. He thinks Lady Jane gave it to the victim in order to pass it along to a man leading a crusade against Henry's closing of all Catholic churches and monasteries in England in favor of the new religion. There are too many suspects. But Will is clever and he know his way around the court. I like this series because of the fantastic research the author does. My father, the Elizabethan scholar, would have liked these. Recommended.
November 19, 2024
Once again Will Somers, the official fool to King Henry VIII, is called upon to solve a murder, this time of a servant in Queen Jane's household. And once again he manages to accomplish the task, with help from his long-suffering wife and the support of his lover, Sir Nicholas. As in the previous installment in the series (the only one I'd read prior to this), the mystery is the least compelling and convincing part of the book. What I most enjoyed about "Rebellious Grace" was the detailed depiction of life in the Tudor court and the well-rounded characters. Will, who narrates, is a bit garrulous and redundant; I'd like to see his musings edited a bit. In fact, I'd love if his wife, Marion, narrated one of the subsequent books. Even so, I'm already eager for next title in the series, which is set to take place during Anne of Cleve's brief time as consort.
Thank you, NetGalley and Severn House, for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you, NetGalley and Severn House, for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 13, 2025
I jumped into this series with this book 3, so some background is lost, but not too much. Set in one of my favorite time periods, the Tudor court, Will is asked to assist with a murder mystery. It is a fine balance between being the Henry's fool and Henry's detective. While Will is aware of almost all secrets within Henry's court, he is not proliviledged enough to go scot free is he starts questioning higher levels of the court. His love life is also complicated. His wife and his lover both wanting his time and his affectiins. Overall, this book was well put together, and I will read books 1 and 2 in the near future to catch up
#netgalley #RebelliousGrace
#netgalley #RebelliousGrace
November 7, 2024
A nail biter to the very end. What I really enjoyed about this book was although it takes place entirely at King Henry VIII's court during his marriage to Jane Seymour - it doesn't rehash everything we already know about this. It primarily focuses on Will Somers (the King's Fool) , Jane (the King's Fool) and their family and acquaintances. Great writing and storyline - I will definitely be reading more! Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
February 23, 2025
I absolutely love the King's Fool series. Will Somers is a delightful character who comes alive in the page, he's written with such complexity and depth. This historical mystery is full of engaging characters, and a story that pulls me in, with the court of Henry VIII as the backdrop.
April 18, 2025
I really like Will’s voice — and the idea of having a jester being both the conscience of the court and the investigator of misdeeds. I thought that there could have been a better twist at the end of this one, but it was still an entertaining story.
January 21, 2025
I adore these books and Rebellious Grace is my favorite of the series.
March 23, 2025
This was on the new books shelf at my library - apparently it is part of a series but I don’t feel like you NEEDED to read the other books to read this one. It’s giving a whodunit ft Henry the 8th.
March 25, 2025
This is the third in the series and is basically the same story of the first two books in the series. So, just read the first book.
January 11, 2025
Westerson has found a delightful way of providing readers with an alternative view of events during Henry VIII's reign. With the court jester as their guide, readers are taken into the depths of the castle for a behind the scenes look into the dynamics of the court. Will Somers' antics at the table, his demeanor with Henry, and his love frolics, all place him in the center of events. While the murders themselves in this series are not centered on fact, the overarching events of the book are. In this book, Westerson shed light on the Pilgrimage of Grace rebellion and Henry's marriage to Jane Seymour. Fast read that will have you guessing.
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