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I, Richard Plantagenet #Omnibus 1-2
I, Richard Plantagenet, an Epic Novel of Richard III: The Complete Edition
I, Richard Plantagenet, An Epic Novel of Richard III
Complete Edition, updated and revised, containing parts 1 and 2, Tante Le Desiree and Loyaulte Me Lie.
Richard III's story, told in first person from his point of view, using, where possible, Richard's actual words (in modern English.)
From the battle of Barnet when Richard is only 18 through his marriage to Anne Neville, to unexpected kingship, betrayal by his 'friend' Buckingham...and the mystery of the vanished princes. Then it is on through the pain of the loss of his only legitimate son Edward, to the final deadly conflict on Bosworth Field against Henry Tudor.
A different fictional look at England's most loved--and most hated--King.. Not a wooden saint, nor yet Shakespeare's hunchbacked fiend, a flesh and blood, fallible man: King's brother, royal duke, scoliosis sufferer, warrior, husband, father.
Called 'a new Ricardian classic.'
Approximately 250,000 words.
Contains what is probably the most up to date fictional account of Richard's last moments at Bosworth, based on the archaeology and forensics.
Complete Edition, updated and revised, containing parts 1 and 2, Tante Le Desiree and Loyaulte Me Lie.
Richard III's story, told in first person from his point of view, using, where possible, Richard's actual words (in modern English.)
From the battle of Barnet when Richard is only 18 through his marriage to Anne Neville, to unexpected kingship, betrayal by his 'friend' Buckingham...and the mystery of the vanished princes. Then it is on through the pain of the loss of his only legitimate son Edward, to the final deadly conflict on Bosworth Field against Henry Tudor.
A different fictional look at England's most loved--and most hated--King.. Not a wooden saint, nor yet Shakespeare's hunchbacked fiend, a flesh and blood, fallible man: King's brother, royal duke, scoliosis sufferer, warrior, husband, father.
Called 'a new Ricardian classic.'
Approximately 250,000 words.
Contains what is probably the most up to date fictional account of Richard's last moments at Bosworth, based on the archaeology and forensics.
868 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 17, 2016
224 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
J.P. Reedman
105 books166 followersBorn in Canada, J.P. Reedman has been a UK resident for over 30 years. She has been writing since the age of 5, and preferred genres are fantasy and historical (or a mixture of both.) Interests are British history and prehistory, especially the neolithic and bronze ages, archaeology, anthropology and features of the countryside. She is author of the STONEHENGE SAGA a novel that places the legends of King Arthur back into the bronze age, and a number of works about King Richard III, including the epic, I RICHARD PLANTAGENET, which, with both parts combined, is over 250,000 words long and written from Richard's first person perspective. She is also the author of the bestselling medieval novel, MY FAIR LADY, about the little known Queen, Eleanor of Provence which is first in an ongoing series about lesser-known medieval noblewoman. 13 SO FAR!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
December 8, 2022
The idea of writing a first person novel about Richard III was brilliant. Lately the genre with historical female figures telling their own story in first person has become very successful, but was it ever done with an historical male figure? Here Richard III, through his own words, comes to life, not a saint, but a good man, and the humorous touch was something I loved. Highly recommended to anyone interested in the period and to those who want to learn more about this much maligned monarch.
November 6, 2022
Excellently written with a twist.
Loyalty Binds Me (“Loyaulté me lie”)
As a lifelong believer in Richard III's historical and wrongful condemnation I found this account of his life quite compelling
The idea of presenting this book in the first person (as if from Richard's own mouth) is fascinating - although a question mark must hang over the validity of the interpretation of such thoughts because, of course, we cannot presume to know the private thoughts and feelings of Richard himself. However, it is interesting to read his story from this completely different viewpoint.
So much of Richard's reign is shrouded in doubt and we can only make of it what we are able but, as much of the material has been taken from historical records (such as they are if we keep in mind that history is always written by the victor) we must assume the facts herein to be accurate.
As the Duke of Gloucester Richard seemed to be a good and kindly man, loyal to his brother Edward IV and much enamoured of his wife Anne Neville. He had a circle of trusted friends who were faithful to him from childhood to death...and too many others who betrayed him badly.
It seemed to be important to him that he was seen as a just and fair Lord who treated the common people of his estates well, looking out for their wellbeing and improving their living conditions. He applied the law equally to all whether high or low born. On ocassion he was overly lenient considering the times he lived in and it might be said this leniency became his undoing.
In battle Richard proved himself steadfast to his family and to the House of York. His own personal motto, Loyaulte Me Lie (Loyalty Binds Me) reflects well his station in life as the younger son and both supporter and subject of his brother King Edward IV.
Following Edward's early demise Richard is appointed Lord Protector and takes into his care his young nephews Edward V...the uncrowned King..and Richard Duke of York.
Known as the Princes In The Tower the two boys became infamous as the subject of a historical mystery enmeshed in many theories ... none of which have ever been proven. Since Richard was custodian of his nephews at the time of their disappearance - and soon afterwards accepted the invitation to take up the crown himself - he became the most obvious person to be held culprable for their disappearance and has been judged by many to be guilty of killing or ordering them to be killed. The argument against this, surely, is that since the boys had already been declared bastards (due to their father's marriage to Elizabeth Woodville being deemed invalid) their deaths would serve no purpose as all the children born of Edward IV and Elizabeth would be barred from the line of sucession.
Other theories suggest Harry Stafford (Buckingham) took it upon himself to have the boys murdered - ostentatiously as a show of support to strengthen Richard's position as King but, given his later betrayal when he moved his support to Henry Tudor, it could be assumed that Buckingham coverted the crown for himself.
Likewise many people believe Henry Tudor himself was responsible. He who wished to be King, who married the boys sister Elizabeth to put himself closer to the throne and who had her illegitimacy reversed to strengthen his own position. Of course in doing so this action would also legitimise the Princes' and place them both before himself in the line of succession .... so it isn't hard to see why he might think their removal absolutely necessary to his challenge.
The mystery remains unsolved and the world will probably never know the truth but, when Richard III was killed at Bosworth, he became the easiest person to blame and thus sadly he has been denied his own glorious legacy and the chance to be remembered as the good King he had hoped to become.
With the facts buried forever in popular belief the real story of Richard can never be written but this book makes a decent fist of it.
The loss of his young son followed soon after by Anne's death was his greatest tragedy. Being a king without an heir put him in the unenviable position of having to think too soon about taking another wife in order to secure his line. This I think causes him to appear unfeeling...and worse it raised rumours that he had had his wife poisoned in order that he might make haste to remarry ..yet such is the way of Royalty. He married the first time for love and planned to marry the second time for politics. Sadly he never had the chance to remarry or have any more legitimate children.
Loyalty Binds Me (“Loyaulté me lie”)
As a lifelong believer in Richard III's historical and wrongful condemnation I found this account of his life quite compelling
The idea of presenting this book in the first person (as if from Richard's own mouth) is fascinating - although a question mark must hang over the validity of the interpretation of such thoughts because, of course, we cannot presume to know the private thoughts and feelings of Richard himself. However, it is interesting to read his story from this completely different viewpoint.
So much of Richard's reign is shrouded in doubt and we can only make of it what we are able but, as much of the material has been taken from historical records (such as they are if we keep in mind that history is always written by the victor) we must assume the facts herein to be accurate.
As the Duke of Gloucester Richard seemed to be a good and kindly man, loyal to his brother Edward IV and much enamoured of his wife Anne Neville. He had a circle of trusted friends who were faithful to him from childhood to death...and too many others who betrayed him badly.
It seemed to be important to him that he was seen as a just and fair Lord who treated the common people of his estates well, looking out for their wellbeing and improving their living conditions. He applied the law equally to all whether high or low born. On ocassion he was overly lenient considering the times he lived in and it might be said this leniency became his undoing.
In battle Richard proved himself steadfast to his family and to the House of York. His own personal motto, Loyaulte Me Lie (Loyalty Binds Me) reflects well his station in life as the younger son and both supporter and subject of his brother King Edward IV.
Following Edward's early demise Richard is appointed Lord Protector and takes into his care his young nephews Edward V...the uncrowned King..and Richard Duke of York.
Known as the Princes In The Tower the two boys became infamous as the subject of a historical mystery enmeshed in many theories ... none of which have ever been proven. Since Richard was custodian of his nephews at the time of their disappearance - and soon afterwards accepted the invitation to take up the crown himself - he became the most obvious person to be held culprable for their disappearance and has been judged by many to be guilty of killing or ordering them to be killed. The argument against this, surely, is that since the boys had already been declared bastards (due to their father's marriage to Elizabeth Woodville being deemed invalid) their deaths would serve no purpose as all the children born of Edward IV and Elizabeth would be barred from the line of sucession.
Other theories suggest Harry Stafford (Buckingham) took it upon himself to have the boys murdered - ostentatiously as a show of support to strengthen Richard's position as King but, given his later betrayal when he moved his support to Henry Tudor, it could be assumed that Buckingham coverted the crown for himself.
Likewise many people believe Henry Tudor himself was responsible. He who wished to be King, who married the boys sister Elizabeth to put himself closer to the throne and who had her illegitimacy reversed to strengthen his own position. Of course in doing so this action would also legitimise the Princes' and place them both before himself in the line of succession .... so it isn't hard to see why he might think their removal absolutely necessary to his challenge.
The mystery remains unsolved and the world will probably never know the truth but, when Richard III was killed at Bosworth, he became the easiest person to blame and thus sadly he has been denied his own glorious legacy and the chance to be remembered as the good King he had hoped to become.
With the facts buried forever in popular belief the real story of Richard can never be written but this book makes a decent fist of it.
The loss of his young son followed soon after by Anne's death was his greatest tragedy. Being a king without an heir put him in the unenviable position of having to think too soon about taking another wife in order to secure his line. This I think causes him to appear unfeeling...and worse it raised rumours that he had had his wife poisoned in order that he might make haste to remarry ..yet such is the way of Royalty. He married the first time for love and planned to marry the second time for politics. Sadly he never had the chance to remarry or have any more legitimate children.
July 9, 2017
Her imagination brings the last Plantagenet king to life
I’ve read a lot, both non-fiction and fiction about Richard, so I can reasonably claim to know a bit about him and the times he lived in.
What Reedman does is communicate, better than in in anything else I’ve read, the sheer torture of this man’s life, and does so without melodrama or exaggeration.
Not ‘the man who would be king’, but the man who never expected nor wanted to become king, having to do so as the brother he had idolized and served went to an early grave hastened by dissipation, leaving a young adolescent heir controlled by avaricious social upstarts.
‘A man of sorrows’ . . . let down by his eldest brother, betrayed by those he thought to trust, plotted against, vilified, and forced to conceal a painful physical disability, . . . ‘and acquainted with grief’ . . . his only son and his wife dying and leaving him bereft.
Little wonder that Reedman describes his end at Bosworth as the fulfilment of a death wish.
Her knowledge of Richard’s life is profound and there is, as far as I can tell, no stretching or straining of what we know from contemporary evidence. Hers is a wholly credible Richard – impetuous, devout, educated, brave, loyal to close friends, introverted, weighed down by events, lacking charm, often irritable, and easily hurt emotionally.
The only technical point I would challenge is the use of the lance in the final charge. Surely this was a tournament or tiltyard weapon? When it came to serious fighting they would have armed themselves with something that did not become useless on the first impact.
I’ve read a lot, both non-fiction and fiction about Richard, so I can reasonably claim to know a bit about him and the times he lived in.
What Reedman does is communicate, better than in in anything else I’ve read, the sheer torture of this man’s life, and does so without melodrama or exaggeration.
Not ‘the man who would be king’, but the man who never expected nor wanted to become king, having to do so as the brother he had idolized and served went to an early grave hastened by dissipation, leaving a young adolescent heir controlled by avaricious social upstarts.
‘A man of sorrows’ . . . let down by his eldest brother, betrayed by those he thought to trust, plotted against, vilified, and forced to conceal a painful physical disability, . . . ‘and acquainted with grief’ . . . his only son and his wife dying and leaving him bereft.
Little wonder that Reedman describes his end at Bosworth as the fulfilment of a death wish.
Her knowledge of Richard’s life is profound and there is, as far as I can tell, no stretching or straining of what we know from contemporary evidence. Hers is a wholly credible Richard – impetuous, devout, educated, brave, loyal to close friends, introverted, weighed down by events, lacking charm, often irritable, and easily hurt emotionally.
The only technical point I would challenge is the use of the lance in the final charge. Surely this was a tournament or tiltyard weapon? When it came to serious fighting they would have armed themselves with something that did not become useless on the first impact.
June 11, 2019
Straightening out a crooked king
This gripping story of Richard Duke of Gloucester, told in the first person, is both passionate and sympathetic to his cause. We see the bloody turn of fortunes in the Cousin's War in favour of the House of York led by Richard's older brother Edward, who snatches the crown from Mad King Henry. It is a fascinating and violent period in our history, with the three Sons of York victorious in battle and holding their bitter rivals at bay for several years... but Edward IV's golden reign brings an end to stability and pitches rival groups against each other. Enter Richard's cousin, the devious Duke of Buckingham, who cops the blame here for the disappearance of the prince's in the tower. Richard, oddly I feel, does not protest his innocence and bears the guilt of misjudgement in the matter. Maybe. It remains unproven either way. The author depicts him as a brave, noble, devout and resourcesful leader up to his end at Bosworth...his 'kingdom for a horse' not a likely plea uttered by this fierce and experienced warrior king, the last Son of York, cut down trying to reach the cringing pretender, Henry Tydder. This tale of Richard, his life, loves and motivations, is skilfully told and all the more engaging for the intimacy of first person narration. Thoroughly gripping to the muddy, gory end.
This gripping story of Richard Duke of Gloucester, told in the first person, is both passionate and sympathetic to his cause. We see the bloody turn of fortunes in the Cousin's War in favour of the House of York led by Richard's older brother Edward, who snatches the crown from Mad King Henry. It is a fascinating and violent period in our history, with the three Sons of York victorious in battle and holding their bitter rivals at bay for several years... but Edward IV's golden reign brings an end to stability and pitches rival groups against each other. Enter Richard's cousin, the devious Duke of Buckingham, who cops the blame here for the disappearance of the prince's in the tower. Richard, oddly I feel, does not protest his innocence and bears the guilt of misjudgement in the matter. Maybe. It remains unproven either way. The author depicts him as a brave, noble, devout and resourcesful leader up to his end at Bosworth...his 'kingdom for a horse' not a likely plea uttered by this fierce and experienced warrior king, the last Son of York, cut down trying to reach the cringing pretender, Henry Tydder. This tale of Richard, his life, loves and motivations, is skilfully told and all the more engaging for the intimacy of first person narration. Thoroughly gripping to the muddy, gory end.
May 6, 2019
It Includes Everything
A book worth reading if you like very long books. I made the effort because it is written in the first person singular. It is not romanticized. The author follows his research and puts together a fascinating story. All the characters are in the story warts and all. Richard's point of view is realistic. The 3 stars are for grammatical errors and typos. It could have used another editing.
A book worth reading if you like very long books. I made the effort because it is written in the first person singular. It is not romanticized. The author follows his research and puts together a fascinating story. All the characters are in the story warts and all. Richard's point of view is realistic. The 3 stars are for grammatical errors and typos. It could have used another editing.
December 14, 2025
Loved this book and I might read it again at some point.
.
What i love about this writer and these books is that is written in 1st person; you don’t read as a witness to Richard’s actions, you live through it, you’re in his mind, feel his feelings, fear his fears, laugh with him (humour and wittiness is something the author adds to the characters and its unusual in a historical fiction book, but it’s a normal human thing).
It’s a very well researched book; the author bases the facts on actual historians, this is shown at the end of the book in the author notes.
The places mentioned in the book are places that exists (or existed in the past) for example Nottingham Castle tower, Richard’s tower, it was built on his orders during his reign, Bow bridge (the legendary tale of him hitting his spurs on the bridge and the mad woman “foretelling” his demise), St Mary the Castro, and many other places that are shown in historical records at Richard’s time.
J P Reedman shows a human Richard, not the Shakespeare tyrant, not a saint: a human who had to deal with sometimes impossible situations during a very difficult and conflicting world as it was medieval England.
All poems and songs are authentically medieval (you can find them online) and when possible the author has used Richard’s own words (like for example in the Buckingham rebellion “the most untrue creature lyvying” the line was added by his own handwriting in a letter that still exists)
If you are interested in his life, the period or a good retelling of the Yorkist period in the called wars of the roses, this is a very good book to read.
.
What i love about this writer and these books is that is written in 1st person; you don’t read as a witness to Richard’s actions, you live through it, you’re in his mind, feel his feelings, fear his fears, laugh with him (humour and wittiness is something the author adds to the characters and its unusual in a historical fiction book, but it’s a normal human thing).
It’s a very well researched book; the author bases the facts on actual historians, this is shown at the end of the book in the author notes.
The places mentioned in the book are places that exists (or existed in the past) for example Nottingham Castle tower, Richard’s tower, it was built on his orders during his reign, Bow bridge (the legendary tale of him hitting his spurs on the bridge and the mad woman “foretelling” his demise), St Mary the Castro, and many other places that are shown in historical records at Richard’s time.
J P Reedman shows a human Richard, not the Shakespeare tyrant, not a saint: a human who had to deal with sometimes impossible situations during a very difficult and conflicting world as it was medieval England.
All poems and songs are authentically medieval (you can find them online) and when possible the author has used Richard’s own words (like for example in the Buckingham rebellion “the most untrue creature lyvying” the line was added by his own handwriting in a letter that still exists)
If you are interested in his life, the period or a good retelling of the Yorkist period in the called wars of the roses, this is a very good book to read.
March 19, 2023
I really enjoyed this book: it was well written with some sumptuous language. The author has clearly done his research and the motives/events were all very believable (and in line with how l think events may have played out, given my extensive reading on the subject). However, a few things jarred.
On the actual text - there were far too many mistakes: clearly more editing is needed to weed out the typos and/or grammatical and punctuation errors. There are also some style issues that kept distracting me - for example, there’s an overuse of ellipses, and some clumsily-written phrases that a sensitive editor should have picked up on. I hated the American phrases and spellings (“out the window”; “balking”) and the anachronistic terminology/phrases (“chucked it down”, “miffed”). And Frank Lovell?? Really? Never, ever have l seen or read of him called by that name - again, it seems anachronistic, and it really irritated me.
I seem to have been more critical above than praising, given that l felt this book was worth 4 stars, but as l say, l really enjoyed reading this version of the Richard Three (to copy the author’s terminology) story. l think it’s because l am disappointed on its behalf that these flaws take the edge off what is an undeniably powerful book and maybe by reading comments like this, future editions will be corrected and do it justice.
August 21, 2019
This is a dense read, but fascinating. So many misconceptions and speculations surround this last king in in TheCousins War (War of the roses). Shakespeare did a real hit job on him in his play, Richard the Third. So, it was nice to see him depicted in a good light. Mysteries swirled around King Richard, and his court, the disappearance of the two young princes, sons of his late brother, King Edward, is the most infamous. To his day it is unknown what happened to them.
Third and youngest son, it was unlikely Richard would ever ascend to the throne. A loyal soldier, he put his life on the line for Edward many times. A very dangerous time for anyone to be living, it was even more dangerous for the children of royalty. Treachery and deception were rampant. Richard was deceived at the very end in the battle at Bosworth that brought Henry VI to the throne and the beginning of the Tudor line, ending with Elizabeth I, the longest reigning monarch until today's Elizabeth. A good read for lovers of history.
Third and youngest son, it was unlikely Richard would ever ascend to the throne. A loyal soldier, he put his life on the line for Edward many times. A very dangerous time for anyone to be living, it was even more dangerous for the children of royalty. Treachery and deception were rampant. Richard was deceived at the very end in the battle at Bosworth that brought Henry VI to the throne and the beginning of the Tudor line, ending with Elizabeth I, the longest reigning monarch until today's Elizabeth. A good read for lovers of history.
February 9, 2021
This edition actually contains two novels, 'I, Richard Plantagenet: Loyaulte me Lie' and 'I, Richard Plantagenet: Tante le Desiree'. Both books explore the life of Richard III from his first person perspective.
These books were a fascinating read. Both are written wonderfully, with the perfect blend of gorgeous description, captivating insights and reflections from Richard and fast paced, realistic action and battle scenes.
I didn't actually know very much about this period in history (the novels span from 1471-1485) so it was fascinating to read more about this era. It actually posed a bit of a dilemma at points because it made me want to read more about the history, but I also didn't want to inadvertently spoil it for myself!
I really recommend this series for beautiful description, wonderful characters, plenty of action but also honest reflection. There is plenty of suspense too, with one or two moments completely jaw-dropping! The exciting style of the books make it ideal for historical fiction lovers or if you interested in trying out the genre.
These books were a fascinating read. Both are written wonderfully, with the perfect blend of gorgeous description, captivating insights and reflections from Richard and fast paced, realistic action and battle scenes.
I didn't actually know very much about this period in history (the novels span from 1471-1485) so it was fascinating to read more about this era. It actually posed a bit of a dilemma at points because it made me want to read more about the history, but I also didn't want to inadvertently spoil it for myself!
I really recommend this series for beautiful description, wonderful characters, plenty of action but also honest reflection. There is plenty of suspense too, with one or two moments completely jaw-dropping! The exciting style of the books make it ideal for historical fiction lovers or if you interested in trying out the genre.
January 15, 2019
My first exposure to Richard III was reading Shakespeare's play as a project in High School. My impression then was that this picture of Richard is just to "evil" to be true. A teacher told me to remember that the victors (in this case the Tudors) write the official histories of the ones who lost. So I started reading other things about him. The picture emerged of a much more complex character than the "Official" Tudor picture. Still something was missing and Reedman has supplied that missing part by telling the story from Richard's point of view. Over the many years since that first High School experience I have delved into the history of the Plantagenet family and found many wonderful avenues for enjoyable reading. Reedman's historical novel of the last of the Plantagenet Kings is well written and a welcomed addition to the complex story of a complex man who lived at a complex time in English history. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys English history.
February 28, 2022
While I realize that this book is fictional. Nor am I well versed with the History of Britain. It is my opinion that Richard III has spoken to me through the pen of J.P. Reedman.
I enjoyed the book so very much even though it was overlong, I looked forward to getting back to reading it after having to perforce put it down overnight. It was (in my mind) superbly written, & extremely engrossing. I loved the usage of the English expressions of "yore," his words made it appear as though Richard III was in fact in my presence narrating his love life, his adventures, his misfortunes, his children & his battles as one would speak to a good friend, baring his soul to someone he could trust.
I can only say that it was worth every minute in the reading of this wonderfully well-written novel, even after reading 662 pages of the book I wished it would not end.
Captain Dady J. Mody
I enjoyed the book so very much even though it was overlong, I looked forward to getting back to reading it after having to perforce put it down overnight. It was (in my mind) superbly written, & extremely engrossing. I loved the usage of the English expressions of "yore," his words made it appear as though Richard III was in fact in my presence narrating his love life, his adventures, his misfortunes, his children & his battles as one would speak to a good friend, baring his soul to someone he could trust.
I can only say that it was worth every minute in the reading of this wonderfully well-written novel, even after reading 662 pages of the book I wished it would not end.
Captain Dady J. Mody
December 14, 2023
This book is outstanding! I have it in paperback and when I saw the size I wondered about my choice. My heavens what a book! What research! There are parts in here that made me laugh, but many that made me cry. If ever there was a man , a King, a person, so badly maligned by history ( and our own bard W.Shakespeare) Richard is him. I saw his life and love, his courage and strength, his determination to make England better, I would make him my liege lord, no problem. If you’ve always wondered what he was like, what his life was like, take the chance and opportunity to read this. Then think again on the man you thought you knew.
May 9, 2023
A long but epic read, ideal travel companion for some long flights!
I close this book because of the interesting topic (I'm fascinated with English history), and because I liked my initial sampler of J.P. Reedman's writing style / quality - and I wasn't disappointed on either count! It was a wonderful travel companion for a long trip from Western Canada to Africa, becoming an awesome trip-within-a-trip. Highly recommended for readers who appreciate and take the time to savor quality writing, and who of course enjoy historical fiction.
I close this book because of the interesting topic (I'm fascinated with English history), and because I liked my initial sampler of J.P. Reedman's writing style / quality - and I wasn't disappointed on either count! It was a wonderful travel companion for a long trip from Western Canada to Africa, becoming an awesome trip-within-a-trip. Highly recommended for readers who appreciate and take the time to savor quality writing, and who of course enjoy historical fiction.
January 10, 2018
Fascinating!
The language of old, the history given in a first person accounting pulled me in and kept me up nights reading! As anyone who would declare himself king, Richard's story seems most likely. The prise and descriptions are inspiring. I almost found myself rooting for Richard! If you're intrigued as I am with English history I think you will enjoy the reading adventure!
The language of old, the history given in a first person accounting pulled me in and kept me up nights reading! As anyone who would declare himself king, Richard's story seems most likely. The prise and descriptions are inspiring. I almost found myself rooting for Richard! If you're intrigued as I am with English history I think you will enjoy the reading adventure!
December 28, 2018
I have read a great deal of history and historical fiction based on that era of English history. This is the first novel I have found that told the story from RIII's point of view.
It was really interesting - most novels and history books assume that he really did have an affair with niece after his wife died and that the attraction was mutual.
I have to admit that this is the first time I was able to see him as a three dimensional character in a meaningful way.
Great read.
It was really interesting - most novels and history books assume that he really did have an affair with niece after his wife died and that the attraction was mutual.
I have to admit that this is the first time I was able to see him as a three dimensional character in a meaningful way.
Great read.
October 7, 2019
Finally, a retelling from Richard's point of view! This book begins at the Battle of Barnet, introducing us to the major players of the War of the Roses from Richard's perspective. Well told, neither dallying in tragedy or comedy, this book presents the story of, well, a man. A man who loved, who lost, who fought, and who died. A man who is neither good, nor bad, but is flawed. Certainly a worthwhile read.
February 14, 2022
Like others it was very refreshing to have the story in the first person. This is well written & keeps up a good pace. I liked the information about places, palaces and castles.
As an aside I did have a chuckle to myself when Goodreads asked if my review contained spoilers for this historical tale!
As an aside I did have a chuckle to myself when Goodreads asked if my review contained spoilers for this historical tale!
October 27, 2022
Riveting
Having only known Shakespeare's version of a cruel, ruthless individual, this account highlighted his humanity. A compelling, well-written novel that kept returning the pages, despite knowing how it must end.
Having only known Shakespeare's version of a cruel, ruthless individual, this account highlighted his humanity. A compelling, well-written novel that kept returning the pages, despite knowing how it must end.
January 3, 2018
Great read
Great read, I really enjoyed it. Always been interested in the Plantagenet family. I will definitely be reading his other books
Great read, I really enjoyed it. Always been interested in the Plantagenet family. I will definitely be reading his other books
May 15, 2019
Good read
I favor Richard so this book pleased me.any reader should will make their own judgement. I well written and worth reading.
I favor Richard so this book pleased me.any reader should will make their own judgement. I well written and worth reading.
February 4, 2020
I absolutely loved reading this book.. the more I read about Richard III the better I feel I know him.. it’s full of information and made him ‘come alive’ for me.
October 26, 2021
The perfect book about the perfect man brilliant and loving it
January 16, 2022
Richard 111
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I liked how I heard Richard’s voice and thoughts and
I enjoyed the poetry and songs.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I liked how I heard Richard’s voice and thoughts and
I enjoyed the poetry and songs.
July 22, 2022
Very gooid read, all the people in the plat covered well.
Paints Richard lll as I feel he would have been.
Paints Richard lll as I feel he would have been.
October 30, 2022
Very different way of relating such a well known story. Political propaganda has not changed much between Richard’s reign and today.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book
I thoroughly enjoyed the book
December 13, 2022
Not much epic about it. The characters are flat as is the prose. While she is historically pretty accurate, the story has no passion.
January 26, 2023
Interesting and riveting.
An enjoyable read but only four stars due to annoyingly poor proof reading.
Helped a great deal in clarifying relationships.
An enjoyable read but only four stars due to annoyingly poor proof reading.
Helped a great deal in clarifying relationships.
January 6, 2025
The sheer amount of research that went into this novel was absolutely superb.
March 19, 2022
I just love a good Historical Fiction novel! This is perfect, so lush and emotionally charged.
July 13, 2021
Very interesting
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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