The Rules of the Game

Whitehall #1.5

by Liz Duffy Adams, Delia Sherman

New arrivals cause a stir in the fifth installment of Whitehall, an episodic royal tale full of true history and sensual intrigue, new from Serial Box Publishing.

Changes at court reflect the nation’s own transformation as new faces and sleeping arrangements upset the status quo. But not everyone is happy, and plots against the queen grow amongst the discontented.

This episode is brought to you by Liz Duffy Adams and Delia Sherman, who advise you to be wary of newcomers.

Genres: Historical Fiction

44 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 15, 2016

Reviews

[Sherwood Smith]

Two superb episodes in a row!

Terrific characterizations, with complications being added that heighten the tension deliciously. I love the complexity of the characters, and the narrative voice's sure touch in sliding into intimate space then out again to take in the panorama.

[Lois · Rating 4 out of 5]

***I had a horrible experience with the actual serial box app. The programmers only responded to tell me the issue was my fault, their suggested fixes didn't apply and otherwise my problems that made the program unusable were ignored. Their books are available through the library and pirating sites. I would not advise anyone purchase through them since my program was unusable and I ended up reading the free copy from my library***

And the plot thickens!

[Beth]

A new member of Charles's family is introduced, and Barbara has gained a role in Charles's court while losing another one (for now?). A background character from earlier installments is given the spotlight here, and her story emphasizes both the horrors of Cromwell's time period, and the religious conflicts of this period in England's history.

This serial has held up pretty well both gobbled up all at once (eps. 1-4) and read individually (this one). There's a bunch of balls rolling all at once and I haven't read an episode yet that felt like it was treading water. Fun!

[Stephanie (Bookfever) · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's funny how with each story I read in this serial, I find a new favorite. But I just can't help it. It was yet another great addition. And the end... talk about a cliffhanger!

The Rules of the Game was written by Liz Duffy Adams & Delia Sherman. The first episode was also written by them. This part continues the story. There's more intrigue, someone new arrived at court and the end actually made me gasp out loud because this might change things a lot. And if I'm not mistaken the next episode won't come until July 13 so I'm going to have to wait a for a little while.

I really love these episodes. It's interesting to read how Catherine who isn't yet used to the English court navigate it and I do love her relationship and chemistry with Charles. Also, the writing is excellent.

As always it was a quick read and I think it's perfect for people who want to read something short but that's also actually a great story. And it, being historical makes it even more perfect in my opinion. So if you haven't checked out this serial I would highly recommend you doing so!

[Jill Tool · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars review. I would like to thank NetGallery for allowing me to read this book in return for my honest review.
This episode continues the story of King Charles, his wife Catherine, and his persistent mistress Barbara. Catherine is holding her own with Charles, and how well they fit together as a couple. The story lines are really starting to pick up. I am enjoying these episodes and it’s nice to be able to read them when I don’t have time to sit and read a chapter here and chapters there like normal books. These make a perfect read for people that are busy and on the go! The stories are well written, fast pace, entertaining, engaging, and intriguing. The stories are well thought out and well written, I did discover that each episode is written by different authors. This just makes me want to read the episodes more to see where each person is taking the characters, and where the next person has to begin. I do recommend these episodes to others that enjoy historical fiction, and have limited time to read, but do enjoy reading.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this well-written, fascinating episode! This is the fifth installment in a series about King Charles II and his Queen, Catherine. The King's mistress Barbara is still holding her own, and there are people plotting against Catherine. The chemistry between the Queen Catherine and King Charles II continues, and the Queen Catherine continues to learn the English language and the customs at court. I need to read the next episode immediately! I received a copy of this episode in exchange for an honest review.

[Terri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! They are shaking things up in this installment of Whitehall. Catherine is getting along much better with the king, but she sure needs to watch her back. Several characters are out to get her and she doesn't know about all of them. There's also a new arrival at court that sets Catherine on her ear. Will her relationship with Charles survive the chaos?
This is a series written by different authors and all have done an excellent job!
I was given this book free in exchange for an honest review.

[Donna Maguire · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am lucky enough to have read all of the previous parts of this series, and this one is just as good as those that have been released before it. I am a huge fan of historical fiction and this is a brilliant book - the descriptions used make you feel as though you are with them at the time. I have really enjoyed this series and can’t wait to read the next part – it’s definitely worth grabbing a copy in my view - I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it – highly recommended

[Teresa]

* e-Arc provided by Netgalley *