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The 48
Henry VIII's Tudor court meets time-traveling teen assassins in a riveting YA novel.
Twins Charlie and Alex Taylor are the newest time travelers recruited to the Forty-Eight, a clandestine military group in charge of manipulating history. The brothers arrive in 1536 feeling confident, but the Tudor court is not all banquets and merriment: it is a deep well of treachery, torture, lust, intrigue, and suspicion. The boys' mission to prevent Henry VIII from marrying Jane Seymour is further complicated when Alice, a fellow trainee, appears under mysterious and brutal circumstances--and when whispers of an uprising within the Forty-Eight reach their ears. Told in alternating perspectives among Charlie, Alex, and sixteen-year-old Lady Margaret, a ladies' maid to Queen Anne Boleyn with an agenda of her own, The 48 captures the sights, smells, sounds, and hazards of an unhinged Henry VIII's court from the viewpoint of one person who lived that history--and two teens who have been sent to turn it upside down.
Twins Charlie and Alex Taylor are the newest time travelers recruited to the Forty-Eight, a clandestine military group in charge of manipulating history. The brothers arrive in 1536 feeling confident, but the Tudor court is not all banquets and merriment: it is a deep well of treachery, torture, lust, intrigue, and suspicion. The boys' mission to prevent Henry VIII from marrying Jane Seymour is further complicated when Alice, a fellow trainee, appears under mysterious and brutal circumstances--and when whispers of an uprising within the Forty-Eight reach their ears. Told in alternating perspectives among Charlie, Alex, and sixteen-year-old Lady Margaret, a ladies' maid to Queen Anne Boleyn with an agenda of her own, The 48 captures the sights, smells, sounds, and hazards of an unhinged Henry VIII's court from the viewpoint of one person who lived that history--and two teens who have been sent to turn it upside down.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2018
13 people are currently reading
698 people want to read
About the author
Donna Hosie
11 books196 followersDonna Hosie's critically-acclaimed THE DEVIL'S series has been awarded multiple starred reviews, as well as a Kirkus Teen Book of the Year Award, YALSA's Best Fiction for Young Adults Award, and a Westchester Fiction Gold Seal Award.
Donna is also the author of THE RETURN TO CAMELOT trilogy, THE CHILDREN OF CAMELOT series, and THE 48.
Donna is also the author of THE RETURN TO CAMELOT trilogy, THE CHILDREN OF CAMELOT series, and THE 48.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
August 8, 2018
This was SO MUCH FUN.
Time traveling teen assassins go back to Henry the VIII's court in order to prevent him from marrying Jane Seymour and thus continuing the influence and power of Catholicism...
This made me want to go back and finish Wolf Hall and re-watch the Tudors because it really doesn't get any more exciting and fascinating then the Tudor court.
Time traveling teen assassins go back to Henry the VIII's court in order to prevent him from marrying Jane Seymour and thus continuing the influence and power of Catholicism...
This made me want to go back and finish Wolf Hall and re-watch the Tudors because it really doesn't get any more exciting and fascinating then the Tudor court.
August 28, 2018
RATING: 2/5
e-ARC provided by Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review
I’m having a hard time figuring out how I feel about this. I was hooked for the first 30% but, towards the middle, I started losing interest. The ending was quite predictable. There wasn’t any suspense or anticipation, which made the reading experience really underwhelming.
Characters
We have the twins, Charlie and Alex, aka the time writers; Alice, a newbie time writer and friend of the twins; Margaret, a girl trying to survive in the Tudor court; Henry Tudor, King of England; Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry and Queen of England and last but not least, Jane Seymour, the king’s new lover.
I liked the introduction of each character. You can instantly identify different character traits in each personality. Charlie is serious and a little bit shy, while Alex is cheerful and outspoken. Henry VIII was known for being selfish, childish and impulsive, which is exactly how he was portrayed here. As for Anne Boleyn, she was supposedly high maintenance, ambitious and arrogant. The author showed a softer side of her and I liked that. I didn’t care much for Margaret and Jane, though I did like Jane’s interactions with Charlie.
Plot
In theory, the plot sounds interesting. I’m not a big fan of time travel but my obsession with the Tudors pushed me to give this a try. I don’t regret reading it, but it was sort of disappointing. The author tried to incorporate too many obstacles/setbacks and it didn’t work. The book lacked action and intensity, the pacing was off and it was kinda dull.
In conclusion, this had potential but, for me, it didn’t work out.
e-ARC provided by Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review
I’m having a hard time figuring out how I feel about this. I was hooked for the first 30% but, towards the middle, I started losing interest. The ending was quite predictable. There wasn’t any suspense or anticipation, which made the reading experience really underwhelming.
Characters
We have the twins, Charlie and Alex, aka the time writers; Alice, a newbie time writer and friend of the twins; Margaret, a girl trying to survive in the Tudor court; Henry Tudor, King of England; Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry and Queen of England and last but not least, Jane Seymour, the king’s new lover.
I liked the introduction of each character. You can instantly identify different character traits in each personality. Charlie is serious and a little bit shy, while Alex is cheerful and outspoken. Henry VIII was known for being selfish, childish and impulsive, which is exactly how he was portrayed here. As for Anne Boleyn, she was supposedly high maintenance, ambitious and arrogant. The author showed a softer side of her and I liked that. I didn’t care much for Margaret and Jane, though I did like Jane’s interactions with Charlie.
Plot
In theory, the plot sounds interesting. I’m not a big fan of time travel but my obsession with the Tudors pushed me to give this a try. I don’t regret reading it, but it was sort of disappointing. The author tried to incorporate too many obstacles/setbacks and it didn’t work. The book lacked action and intensity, the pacing was off and it was kinda dull.
In conclusion, this had potential but, for me, it didn’t work out.
July 10, 2018
Picked up an arc at ALA the second I saw it. I read Hosie's DEVIL'S INTERN and loved that and wasn't disappointed with this. She just knows how to do time-travel. Told in 3 voices, this book is thrilling from first page to last. Will there be a sequel because I want one.
August 31, 2018
I've recently been interested in the history of the Tudors and the wives of Henry VIII, so when I saw The 48, I was excited to read more. I was not disappointed.
Time-traveling twins, Charles and Alexander, are sent to England when Henry VIII was married to Anne Boleyn but has designs on Jane Seymour. The twins are part of a secret network, The 48, and have trained for this assignment their entire life. The 48 is run by a group of people who want to change history, in this case, they want to make sure Henry doesn't marry Jane. The goal is to rid the world of religion.
First of all, that's a very different type of time travel than most stories. Usually, it is all about never doing anything that will change the future. And I thought it was strange that they didn't worry about the other changes that such drastic actions might cause. The "butterfly effect" was never mentioned.
This is Charles' and Alexander's first mission and it goes off the rails immediately. In many ways. Something is up with The 48, so they aren't getting the support they need. Someone wants at least one of them dead. One of the narrators is Lady Margaret, one of Queen Anne's ladies, and she wants to marry Alex. Cromwell is up to no good, as you know if you are aware of anything about this time period. For some reason, Alice, one of the time travelers who is still in training, ends up with them, having been pushed through time by one of the other 48.
Once things get going, the tension builds nicely. Everyone is in fear for their lives, and some characters come very close to losing theirs. It does take a bit to get going, and some of the characters make stupid decisions -- but when don't they. I didn't get much history that I wasn't already familiar with, but the atmosphere of the time period was very well done.
Just FYI, the book that got this started was Fatal Throne, which I loved. So read that one first, and then The 48 is a great follow-up.
I would recommend this to time-travel fans first. The historical elements are there, but not as strong as the time travel elements. Fans of Tudor England will be entertained by the potential upheaval this time travel may cause.
Time-traveling twins, Charles and Alexander, are sent to England when Henry VIII was married to Anne Boleyn but has designs on Jane Seymour. The twins are part of a secret network, The 48, and have trained for this assignment their entire life. The 48 is run by a group of people who want to change history, in this case, they want to make sure Henry doesn't marry Jane. The goal is to rid the world of religion.
First of all, that's a very different type of time travel than most stories. Usually, it is all about never doing anything that will change the future. And I thought it was strange that they didn't worry about the other changes that such drastic actions might cause. The "butterfly effect" was never mentioned.
This is Charles' and Alexander's first mission and it goes off the rails immediately. In many ways. Something is up with The 48, so they aren't getting the support they need. Someone wants at least one of them dead. One of the narrators is Lady Margaret, one of Queen Anne's ladies, and she wants to marry Alex. Cromwell is up to no good, as you know if you are aware of anything about this time period. For some reason, Alice, one of the time travelers who is still in training, ends up with them, having been pushed through time by one of the other 48.
Once things get going, the tension builds nicely. Everyone is in fear for their lives, and some characters come very close to losing theirs. It does take a bit to get going, and some of the characters make stupid decisions -- but when don't they. I didn't get much history that I wasn't already familiar with, but the atmosphere of the time period was very well done.
Just FYI, the book that got this started was Fatal Throne, which I loved. So read that one first, and then The 48 is a great follow-up.
I would recommend this to time-travel fans first. The historical elements are there, but not as strong as the time travel elements. Fans of Tudor England will be entertained by the potential upheaval this time travel may cause.
September 5, 2018
(Disclaimer: I received this free book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
I adored the concept of The 48 from the first page. There's nothing I love more than historical fiction meets science fiction. I mean, can you blame me? Not only that, but the fact that we are reading about this story from alternating perspectives, gives the whole book a well rounded feel. There are layers upon layers of intrigue and mystery. It really never stops. And you get so caught up from the beginning.
I adored the concept of The 48 from the first page. There's nothing I love more than historical fiction meets science fiction. I mean, can you blame me? Not only that, but the fact that we are reading about this story from alternating perspectives, gives the whole book a well rounded feel. There are layers upon layers of intrigue and mystery. It really never stops. And you get so caught up from the beginning.
October 6, 2018
When I first started this book I wasnt aware of the time travel that would come into play, it didnt alter my opinion of the plot. The 48 is a group who trains people to go back in time and rewrite history. Alex and Charles are sent to Englad during Henry the VIII reign to stop his marriage to Jane and rewrite the history of religion.
The details about time travel were quickly woven into the text and the story took on a life of it's own in England during the Tudor era. Alex and Charles are twins so they confuse many people on who is who so when the "wrong"twin is set on a journey it sets things in motion.
The author did a credible job of writing history the way it happened and in it wove action and consequences that could change history. SO do the time travels leave history alone or rewrite it?
The details about time travel were quickly woven into the text and the story took on a life of it's own in England during the Tudor era. Alex and Charles are twins so they confuse many people on who is who so when the "wrong"twin is set on a journey it sets things in motion.
The author did a credible job of writing history the way it happened and in it wove action and consequences that could change history. SO do the time travels leave history alone or rewrite it?
October 9, 2018
Is there a better setting for time-traveling assassins than the brutal and tumultuous Tudor court? Absolutely not. Donna Hosie has merged science and historical fiction in her newest novel, THE 48, and the result is one murderously good time.
Charlie and Alex are twin brothers and the newest Assets for The 48. A covert organization that trains “weapons of historical manipulation,” or, Assets. Their first mission takes them to the bloody Tudor court at the end of Henry’s marriage to Anne Boleyn. They’ve been sent to stop the King from marrying the Lady Jane Seymour.
From the very beginning, their mission goes awry, with assassins attempting to kill one or both of them, a lady in waiting with her sights set on Alex for marriage and the ever-conspiring Thomas Cromwell, well, conspiring. But when an Asset trainee is unexpectedly, and violently, sent to them with no explanation, the twins begin realize there is something far more devious at play.
Told through the three perspectives, the twins, plus Lady Margaret, a ladies’ maid to Queen Anne, we get a well-balanced view of how different life in King Henry’s court could be. Especially how markedly different those lives were depending on rank and gender. Lady Margaret gives us the terrifying and frustrating life as a woman, not just in Henry’s court, but also during that time.
I loved the gritty details Hosie brings to life. This novel is an excellent introduction to the stressful and erratic tension that was notorious throughout the Tudor reign, but there is delightful added texture for those already familiar with this part of history. Many scenes are so vividly reconstructed that you can hear, smell and see the surroundings. It is an immersion in history that is a compelling and complete introduction while also being a rich visit for those already well versed in the more known elements.
While the historical detail was lavish and detailed, the time-traveling portions were a bit lacking. Unlike many time traveling novels, the intent is to rewrite history, yet very little in regards to how that impacts future events, or changes the future was discussed. It did feel that the time travel was a convenient plot device to take these modern teenage assassins into history. Which makes this a fun novel to read, but will likely frustrate science fiction readers.
I also felt that the details regarding the actual organization fell a bit short. There was a brief page that outlined the history, but not what their aim actually was. In fact, I was left with more questions than answers in regards to the organization as a whole, and as it appears that this was written as a stand-alone and not a series, again it felt like more of a plot device, than an attempt for a full science fiction plot line.
THE 48 is a fast-paced fun ride. There are descriptions of torture, and while they’re mild, they are a bit vivid. In addition, some descriptions of the sights and smells, in particular, may be too much for a sensitive reader.
The Tudor court is one of my historical obsessions, and I will devour anything written about that time, and in regards to those aspects, this novel did not let me down at all. I would love for Hosie to write more in this world. I think more detail of who and what The 48 actually are would be spectacular. Overall, readers who enjoy historical fiction with fun twists will revel in the detail of this novel.
Reviewed by Jena Brown
Charlie and Alex are twin brothers and the newest Assets for The 48. A covert organization that trains “weapons of historical manipulation,” or, Assets. Their first mission takes them to the bloody Tudor court at the end of Henry’s marriage to Anne Boleyn. They’ve been sent to stop the King from marrying the Lady Jane Seymour.
From the very beginning, their mission goes awry, with assassins attempting to kill one or both of them, a lady in waiting with her sights set on Alex for marriage and the ever-conspiring Thomas Cromwell, well, conspiring. But when an Asset trainee is unexpectedly, and violently, sent to them with no explanation, the twins begin realize there is something far more devious at play.
Told through the three perspectives, the twins, plus Lady Margaret, a ladies’ maid to Queen Anne, we get a well-balanced view of how different life in King Henry’s court could be. Especially how markedly different those lives were depending on rank and gender. Lady Margaret gives us the terrifying and frustrating life as a woman, not just in Henry’s court, but also during that time.
I loved the gritty details Hosie brings to life. This novel is an excellent introduction to the stressful and erratic tension that was notorious throughout the Tudor reign, but there is delightful added texture for those already familiar with this part of history. Many scenes are so vividly reconstructed that you can hear, smell and see the surroundings. It is an immersion in history that is a compelling and complete introduction while also being a rich visit for those already well versed in the more known elements.
While the historical detail was lavish and detailed, the time-traveling portions were a bit lacking. Unlike many time traveling novels, the intent is to rewrite history, yet very little in regards to how that impacts future events, or changes the future was discussed. It did feel that the time travel was a convenient plot device to take these modern teenage assassins into history. Which makes this a fun novel to read, but will likely frustrate science fiction readers.
I also felt that the details regarding the actual organization fell a bit short. There was a brief page that outlined the history, but not what their aim actually was. In fact, I was left with more questions than answers in regards to the organization as a whole, and as it appears that this was written as a stand-alone and not a series, again it felt like more of a plot device, than an attempt for a full science fiction plot line.
THE 48 is a fast-paced fun ride. There are descriptions of torture, and while they’re mild, they are a bit vivid. In addition, some descriptions of the sights and smells, in particular, may be too much for a sensitive reader.
The Tudor court is one of my historical obsessions, and I will devour anything written about that time, and in regards to those aspects, this novel did not let me down at all. I would love for Hosie to write more in this world. I think more detail of who and what The 48 actually are would be spectacular. Overall, readers who enjoy historical fiction with fun twists will revel in the detail of this novel.
Reviewed by Jena Brown
August 10, 2018
4.5 stars - a thrilling read told from three perspectives that didn't shy away from shocks that were appropriate for the story and the time-travel premise. Looks like it's a one-off which would be a shame because it has real series potential that is different to the usual YA tropes. If you love anything Tudor - you will <3 this book.
July 23, 2018
Grace's review -- This is an ARC review and I'm erring between 4-5 stars but the cover is sooooo pretty I'm going to be generous. This is a great read for anyone who loves sci-fi meets historical fiction meets I don't know how to describe this genre! Lots of twists and turns and very original.
Ella's review -- Two teenage assassins, who are also twins (YAY!), go back in time to stop Henry VIII getting married. I don't know a huge amount about the Tudors but this book comes across as really well researched and it's super dark which is another YAY.
Ella's review -- Two teenage assassins, who are also twins (YAY!), go back in time to stop Henry VIII getting married. I don't know a huge amount about the Tudors but this book comes across as really well researched and it's super dark which is another YAY.
November 7, 2018
Twin teen boys Alex and Charlie are part of The 48, a secretive society of today founded with the intention of using time-travel to unravel various aspects of the past via meddling, murder, and mayhem. The twins have gotten their first assignment: they have 48 days to prevent Henry VIII from marrying the Protestant Jane Seymour; part of an initiative to change and ultimately eliminate religion in the world. But shortly after they arrive in Tudor court time in England; their younger friend Alice arrives unbidden and it seems that the 48 is not all it seems to be. This contains intrigue in spades, court drama, romantic triangles (and quandrangles) and yet also a few great nuggets such as Alex's relationship with Marlon. Overall the book was longer than it needed to be and very predictable with a time-travel element that was largely for show and not necessary to the story, really.
Anything you didn’t like about it? The characters are often too similar in their mindsets: to the point that it is sometimes even difficult to tell apart characters from "our" time and those from the actual Tudor court. The pacing is also a bit slow so if you're looking for a fast-paced thrill-ride this one will disappoint: there's too much "telling" and not enough "showing" at times.
To whom would you recommend this book? (Read-alikes if you can think of them) Better for fans of Historical fiction than those of Sci Fi as the time-travel element is really a minimal part of the story and mostly just serves to start off the plot and give an excuse for the two teen boy leads to throw in occasional references to modern day phrases or technology.
FTC Disclosure: The Publisher provided me with a copy of this book to provide an honest review.
No goody bags, sponsorship, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Anything you didn’t like about it? The characters are often too similar in their mindsets: to the point that it is sometimes even difficult to tell apart characters from "our" time and those from the actual Tudor court. The pacing is also a bit slow so if you're looking for a fast-paced thrill-ride this one will disappoint: there's too much "telling" and not enough "showing" at times.
To whom would you recommend this book? (Read-alikes if you can think of them) Better for fans of Historical fiction than those of Sci Fi as the time-travel element is really a minimal part of the story and mostly just serves to start off the plot and give an excuse for the two teen boy leads to throw in occasional references to modern day phrases or technology.
FTC Disclosure: The Publisher provided me with a copy of this book to provide an honest review.
No goody bags, sponsorship, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
August 29, 2018
I'll read anything about the Tudors and regard this area of historical fiction as a missed opportunity for young adult writers in particular so I was thrilled to see this early advance copy available.
The 48 is the story of Charlie and Alex who are two young teen assassins on their first time travel assignment to stop the marriage of Henry the Eighth and Jane Seymour. The 48 is told from three perspectives: Charlie, Alex, and Margaret who is a lady in waiting to Anne Boleyn.
It was the females that I found most interesting. I enjoyed the glimpses of Anne Boleyn who is seen fighting for her life in a court of evil men. Margaret's perspective was smart and showed her to be almost like a politician making some awful choices to save her own life. Jane was not what I was expecting as Hosie portrays her as someone who understands exactly what she was getting into.
The book feels a little incomplete which is why it's 4 stars and not 5. I immediately went to look for a release date for a sequel because it seems like there are a lot of unanswered questions, especially around The 48 itself. I would like to see this developed more in another book, presuming there is one.
The 48 is the story of Charlie and Alex who are two young teen assassins on their first time travel assignment to stop the marriage of Henry the Eighth and Jane Seymour. The 48 is told from three perspectives: Charlie, Alex, and Margaret who is a lady in waiting to Anne Boleyn.
It was the females that I found most interesting. I enjoyed the glimpses of Anne Boleyn who is seen fighting for her life in a court of evil men. Margaret's perspective was smart and showed her to be almost like a politician making some awful choices to save her own life. Jane was not what I was expecting as Hosie portrays her as someone who understands exactly what she was getting into.
The book feels a little incomplete which is why it's 4 stars and not 5. I immediately went to look for a release date for a sequel because it seems like there are a lot of unanswered questions, especially around The 48 itself. I would like to see this developed more in another book, presuming there is one.
May 11, 2019
It was a little slow until around page 200. When I got to that point I couldn't put it down! I have always loved the concept and stories about time travel, however in this one I could deal without the government facility who ran the time travel operations. I did love the idea of how they came up with their concept of time travel. It was a fresh new perspective. Alex and Charlie omg I loved every moment and interaction with these twin brothers, that my own heart ached for them at times. After reading and finishing this book I have come to the conclusion that if I could ever time travel Tudor England would not be on my list!!
May 16, 2019
Will rate after bookclub on the 15th
February 20, 2019
3.5 Stars
July 17, 2018
First, the cover art for The 48 by Donna Hosie is amazing! I definitely judge a book by its cover - this cover was the reason I picked up this free Advanced Reader’s Copy at the ALA Conference - so in my opinion this cover art is certainly successful marketing for this book! The image clearly depicts a 16th century dress, a knife hidden behind a woman’s back, and what appears to be a tattoo on the wrist of this individual. Just from the cover you can glean intrigue in a historical setting with a twist of something modern.
The 48 is a Young Adult novel that combines the genres of historical fiction, fantasy, and science fiction. The premise of this story is just as interesting as the combination of genres is fascinating: agents from a secret organization time-travel to the past with the intent to manipulate historical events. There is such potential here; however, I do not feel the book met the potential. I feel that the author attempted to accomplish too much in this one book; therefore, I hope this is the beginning of a series because a series would allow a deeper exploration of the elements presented here. My impression from this book is that the story was not originally planned as a series but the ending is left in such a way that there could be more books to come or this could be it for this storyline and these characters.
I would have preferred to have more background information about the secret organization earlier in the story; I sense that having the organization more developed earlier would give some of the climatic moments more significance. As it reads now, some of the violence felt like violence for the sake of violence albeit historically accurate violence. Having the organization fleshed out more would also help lend depth to a few of the recurring secondary characters, as well as move the pacing along a little smoother. One interesting point is the specific reason these agents are working to manipulate history: to eradicate religion. Morally I bristled at learning this plot point. The point to eradicate religion is further defined by first encouraging Protestantism; I disagreed that the specifics of the mission outlined within the story would accomplish this goal. Ultimately, my qualms regarding the “eradicating religion” issue were quieted in the end with the quote “People should have a choice. They should know their own minds and be able to act on their thoughts.”
I appreciate that Donna Hosie kept the language clean (even in scenes depicted immense pain) and the relationships chaste. One main character is clear on his romantic interest the other is conflicted. The author balances this conflict fairly well as it could easily veer toward the teenage angst found in the Twilight series and I respect her ability to avoid that misery. However, I would like to see this conflicted character explore and learn how to form a mature and healthy romantic relationship. Given the genres present within this story, romantic ties to historical figures could be an interesting plotline; I feel the potential for this was alluded to but not fully explored.
Throughout her writing, I could see the influence of Phillippa Gregory, even Diana Gabaldon. I am curious to read some of Donna Hosie’s other works. The 48 will be a great book club read for both an adult book club and a teen book club. Also, this book could serve as a fabulous teaching opportunity to provide overlap between a science course, history course, and language arts course for some creative teachers looking to collaborate.
The 48 is a Young Adult novel that combines the genres of historical fiction, fantasy, and science fiction. The premise of this story is just as interesting as the combination of genres is fascinating: agents from a secret organization time-travel to the past with the intent to manipulate historical events. There is such potential here; however, I do not feel the book met the potential. I feel that the author attempted to accomplish too much in this one book; therefore, I hope this is the beginning of a series because a series would allow a deeper exploration of the elements presented here. My impression from this book is that the story was not originally planned as a series but the ending is left in such a way that there could be more books to come or this could be it for this storyline and these characters.
I would have preferred to have more background information about the secret organization earlier in the story; I sense that having the organization more developed earlier would give some of the climatic moments more significance. As it reads now, some of the violence felt like violence for the sake of violence albeit historically accurate violence. Having the organization fleshed out more would also help lend depth to a few of the recurring secondary characters, as well as move the pacing along a little smoother. One interesting point is the specific reason these agents are working to manipulate history: to eradicate religion. Morally I bristled at learning this plot point. The point to eradicate religion is further defined by first encouraging Protestantism; I disagreed that the specifics of the mission outlined within the story would accomplish this goal. Ultimately, my qualms regarding the “eradicating religion” issue were quieted in the end with the quote “People should have a choice. They should know their own minds and be able to act on their thoughts.”
I appreciate that Donna Hosie kept the language clean (even in scenes depicted immense pain) and the relationships chaste. One main character is clear on his romantic interest the other is conflicted. The author balances this conflict fairly well as it could easily veer toward the teenage angst found in the Twilight series and I respect her ability to avoid that misery. However, I would like to see this conflicted character explore and learn how to form a mature and healthy romantic relationship. Given the genres present within this story, romantic ties to historical figures could be an interesting plotline; I feel the potential for this was alluded to but not fully explored.
Throughout her writing, I could see the influence of Phillippa Gregory, even Diana Gabaldon. I am curious to read some of Donna Hosie’s other works. The 48 will be a great book club read for both an adult book club and a teen book club. Also, this book could serve as a fabulous teaching opportunity to provide overlap between a science course, history course, and language arts course for some creative teachers looking to collaborate.
October 8, 2018
The cover is intriguing, showing a woman in historical dress gripping a dagger held behind her back, a modern digital countdown on her other wrist. The tagline is "Two time-traveling teen assassins are about to turn Henry VIII's court upside down." To me, there's a certain irreverence to that line that brings to mind 80s teen comedies. And I did say historical dress rather than Tudor specifically because I don't think it is authentically Tudor.
Alex and Charlie are the two brothers. They ought to be distinct but often aren't. For example, they both recite the tenets of the 48 in times of stress to self-soothe, but don't seem to know this about each other. In a Charles chapter, Alex tells him "Marlon thinks you have a gittern stuck up your ass..." (101) but then in an Alexander chapter, Alex thinks "...my new friends in this court were going to be my allies, too. Whether they wanted me or not. Gittern-up-the-butt notwithstanding."
Later, Charles is talking to Jane Seymour--he is constantly waffling between her and a girl from the future, Alice, and neither relationship is compelling--and they are trading jokes about nasty diseases. Charles refers to puerperal fever, which would be unknown to Tudors. Jane giggles. I seriously went and looked this up. It was not known by that name until much later.
Then we have back to back chapters by Margaret, a Tudor lady-in-waiting and Charles where they had weirdly similar thoughts about eating milk and honey-covered bread and feeling pity for Queen Anne, down to the phrasing about "[having] enough humanity left in me to feel sorry...." (270, 271) Seriously, two teenagers with very different upbringings about five centuries apart think exactly the same way?! Later, Margaret thinks "You are a dead queen walking" about Anne (348) and I pretty much had it.
I wouldn't trust Alex, Charles, and Alice to run a Little Caesar's for the night without supervision, much less handle a tricky mission to change time and society.
The 48 is a murky, ill-defined organization and during the course of the book, there are factions and traitors revealed. None of it is as compelling as it could or should be. 48 refers to the age at which Agents are killed because they are too old to be useful. While I won't deny that there are advantages to youth and fitness, killing off your institutional expertise and memory seems short-sighted. Also, if Alex and Charles' parents are an example, agents don't reproduce until in their 40s, which is not the optimal choice either.
If you really want time travel and angst about one's destiny in a dubious organization, try the Seeker series by Dayton instead.
Alex and Charlie are the two brothers. They ought to be distinct but often aren't. For example, they both recite the tenets of the 48 in times of stress to self-soothe, but don't seem to know this about each other. In a Charles chapter, Alex tells him "Marlon thinks you have a gittern stuck up your ass..." (101) but then in an Alexander chapter, Alex thinks "...my new friends in this court were going to be my allies, too. Whether they wanted me or not. Gittern-up-the-butt notwithstanding."
Later, Charles is talking to Jane Seymour--he is constantly waffling between her and a girl from the future, Alice, and neither relationship is compelling--and they are trading jokes about nasty diseases. Charles refers to puerperal fever, which would be unknown to Tudors. Jane giggles. I seriously went and looked this up. It was not known by that name until much later.
Then we have back to back chapters by Margaret, a Tudor lady-in-waiting and Charles where they had weirdly similar thoughts about eating milk and honey-covered bread and feeling pity for Queen Anne, down to the phrasing about "[having] enough humanity left in me to feel sorry...." (270, 271) Seriously, two teenagers with very different upbringings about five centuries apart think exactly the same way?! Later, Margaret thinks "You are a dead queen walking" about Anne (348) and I pretty much had it.
I wouldn't trust Alex, Charles, and Alice to run a Little Caesar's for the night without supervision, much less handle a tricky mission to change time and society.
The 48 is a murky, ill-defined organization and during the course of the book, there are factions and traitors revealed. None of it is as compelling as it could or should be. 48 refers to the age at which Agents are killed because they are too old to be useful. While I won't deny that there are advantages to youth and fitness, killing off your institutional expertise and memory seems short-sighted. Also, if Alex and Charles' parents are an example, agents don't reproduce until in their 40s, which is not the optimal choice either.
If you really want time travel and angst about one's destiny in a dubious organization, try the Seeker series by Dayton instead.
October 14, 2018
Well done blend of sf and historical fiction with an intriguing plot, strongly written appealing characters and surprising twists and turns. Hosie has done a good job of integrating historical background and provides plenty of rich sensory details. This is a very complicated era and she provides plenty of information to navigate the relationships and motives while never bogging down the story. Nicely done.
I would have liked a bit more explanations of the motivations and mechanics of the villains' motives but that is a minor quibble. This one is different and compelling and I loved the twin element.
And that cover! Outstanding!
I would have liked a bit more explanations of the motivations and mechanics of the villains' motives but that is a minor quibble. This one is different and compelling and I loved the twin element.
And that cover! Outstanding!
July 18, 2018
There HAS to be a sequel because I need to know what happens to Charlie and Alice and ALEX!!!! OMG ALEX is so super adorable and I wanted him to be happy with Marlon.
I really felt like I was actually IN this book -- it's so descriptive. The scenes of torture might be a bit to much for some younger readers tho. It's like Game of Thrones but in England!
Thanks to Jamie for the ARC.
November 20, 2018
I love the Tudor time period, but this was just okay. Perhaps it was the introduction of new characters to the time period? I don't know. It was enjoyable, but I started flipping through in the middle to see how much I had left to finish.
September 23, 2018
** This review was originally published on www.teenreads.com **
Is there a better setting for time-traveling assassins than the brutal and tumultuous Tudor court? Absolutely not. Donna Hosie has merged science and historical fiction in her newest novel, THE 48, and the result is one murderously good time.
Charlie and Alex are twin brothers and the newest Assets for The 48. A covert organization that trains “weapons of historical manipulation”, or, Assets. Their first mission takes them to the bloody Tudor court at the end of Henry’s marriage to Anne Boleyn. They’ve been sent to stop the King from marrying the Lady Jane Seymour.
From the very beginning, their mission goes awry, with assassins attempting to kill one or both of them, a lady in waiting with her sights set on Alex for marriage, and the ever conspiring Thomas Cromwell, well, conspiring. But when an Asset trainee is unexpectedly, and violently, sent to them with no explanation, the twins begin realize there is something far more devious at play.
Told through the three perspectives, the twins, plus Lady Margaret, a ladies’ maid to Queen Anne, we get a well-balanced view of how different life in King Henry’s court could be. Especially how markedly different those lives were depending on rank and gender. Lady Margaret gives us the terrifying and frustrating life as a woman, not just in Henry’s court, but also during that time.
I loved the gritty details Hosie brings to life. This novel is an excellent introduction to the stressful and erratic tension that was notorious throughout the Tudor reign, but there is delightful added texture for those already familiar with this part of history. Many scenes are so vividly reconstructed that you can hear, smell, and see the surroundings. It is an immersion in history that is a compelling and complete introduction while also being a rich visit for those already well versed in the more known elements.
While the historical detail was lavish and detailed, the time-traveling portions were a bit lacking. Unlike many time traveling novels, the intent is to rewrite history, yet very little in regards to how that impacts future events, or changes the future was discussed. It did feel that the time travel was a convenient plot device to take these modern teenage assassins into history. Which makes this a fun novel to read, but will likely frustrate science fiction readers.
I also felt that the details regarding the actual organization fell a bit short. There was a brief page that outlined the history, but not what their aim actually was. In fact, I was left with more questions than answers in regards to the organization as a whole, and as it appears that this was written as a stand-alone and not a series, again it felt like more of a plot device, than an attempt for a full science fiction plot line.
THE 48 is a fast-paced fun ride. There are descriptions of torture, and while they’re mild, they are a bit vivid. In addition, some descriptions of the sights and smells, in particular, may be too much for a sensitive reader.
The Tudor court is one of my historical obsessions, and I will devour anything written about that time, and in regards to those aspects, this novel did not let me down at all. I would love for Hosie to write more in this world. I think more detail of who and what The 48 actually are would be spectacular. Overall, readers who enjoy historical fiction with fun twists, will revel in the detail of this novel.
Thank you Teenreads for sending me a review copy!
Is there a better setting for time-traveling assassins than the brutal and tumultuous Tudor court? Absolutely not. Donna Hosie has merged science and historical fiction in her newest novel, THE 48, and the result is one murderously good time.
Charlie and Alex are twin brothers and the newest Assets for The 48. A covert organization that trains “weapons of historical manipulation”, or, Assets. Their first mission takes them to the bloody Tudor court at the end of Henry’s marriage to Anne Boleyn. They’ve been sent to stop the King from marrying the Lady Jane Seymour.
From the very beginning, their mission goes awry, with assassins attempting to kill one or both of them, a lady in waiting with her sights set on Alex for marriage, and the ever conspiring Thomas Cromwell, well, conspiring. But when an Asset trainee is unexpectedly, and violently, sent to them with no explanation, the twins begin realize there is something far more devious at play.
Told through the three perspectives, the twins, plus Lady Margaret, a ladies’ maid to Queen Anne, we get a well-balanced view of how different life in King Henry’s court could be. Especially how markedly different those lives were depending on rank and gender. Lady Margaret gives us the terrifying and frustrating life as a woman, not just in Henry’s court, but also during that time.
I loved the gritty details Hosie brings to life. This novel is an excellent introduction to the stressful and erratic tension that was notorious throughout the Tudor reign, but there is delightful added texture for those already familiar with this part of history. Many scenes are so vividly reconstructed that you can hear, smell, and see the surroundings. It is an immersion in history that is a compelling and complete introduction while also being a rich visit for those already well versed in the more known elements.
While the historical detail was lavish and detailed, the time-traveling portions were a bit lacking. Unlike many time traveling novels, the intent is to rewrite history, yet very little in regards to how that impacts future events, or changes the future was discussed. It did feel that the time travel was a convenient plot device to take these modern teenage assassins into history. Which makes this a fun novel to read, but will likely frustrate science fiction readers.
I also felt that the details regarding the actual organization fell a bit short. There was a brief page that outlined the history, but not what their aim actually was. In fact, I was left with more questions than answers in regards to the organization as a whole, and as it appears that this was written as a stand-alone and not a series, again it felt like more of a plot device, than an attempt for a full science fiction plot line.
THE 48 is a fast-paced fun ride. There are descriptions of torture, and while they’re mild, they are a bit vivid. In addition, some descriptions of the sights and smells, in particular, may be too much for a sensitive reader.
The Tudor court is one of my historical obsessions, and I will devour anything written about that time, and in regards to those aspects, this novel did not let me down at all. I would love for Hosie to write more in this world. I think more detail of who and what The 48 actually are would be spectacular. Overall, readers who enjoy historical fiction with fun twists, will revel in the detail of this novel.
Thank you Teenreads for sending me a review copy!
February 11, 2019
**Spoiler alert**
I liked this book. I felt very invested in the protagonists, Charlie and Alex. Their devotion to each other was touching, and also a weakness when it came to carrying out their mission. However, their weakness ended up being what led them to run from the lifestyle imposed on them since birth. So, perhaps it wasn't a weakness in the end.
An antagonist, who also shared POV, was someone you couldn't hate. Sure, she almost got Charlie and Alex killed for the sake of furthering her means, but at the same time, as a woman in that time period, she had to do what she had to do to try to make things better for herself. I couldn't fault or hate her for scheming. Her life was miserable and doomed to only get worse; she glimpsed salvation and jumped for it. Bravo for fighting the only way you knew how.
The setting of the book and the action were good. The characters introduced as mains and people that they cared for were interesting. I enjoy anything about the Tudor time period, especially when it features the royal family and its scandals. The author really put you in the middle of things. You never knew what was going to happen next.
My chief complaint is that I don't feel that anything was accomplished. They set out to change history and they didn't, not even one tiny bit. The 48 wasn't dismantled. The villains mostly live. The protagonists are now rogues on the run... forever? I could forgive this, if I thought this was going to be a series, but I think it's a stand-alone. So, I did a lot of reading, I did like the characters, I loved the history, but for what? I would have given this book a four, if there was even a hint of a sequel to make me feel like there was a reason I read all of that. If it was just to be a historical fiction that gave me an account of what happened in Tudor-time, that'd be cool, but it was time-travel with characters out to accomplish... nothing.
I mean if it was just to prove The 48 was corrupt and they needed to get out, more time needed to be spent on that, with them going on different missions and interacting with more members, especially others they could convince to want to run or who wanted to run. I'm just a bit unsatisfied.
But, it was a fun read. I finished the book in a few hours. I'd recommend it to people who like reading about spies and sibling affection and English history.
I liked this book. I felt very invested in the protagonists, Charlie and Alex. Their devotion to each other was touching, and also a weakness when it came to carrying out their mission. However, their weakness ended up being what led them to run from the lifestyle imposed on them since birth. So, perhaps it wasn't a weakness in the end.
An antagonist, who also shared POV, was someone you couldn't hate. Sure, she almost got Charlie and Alex killed for the sake of furthering her means, but at the same time, as a woman in that time period, she had to do what she had to do to try to make things better for herself. I couldn't fault or hate her for scheming. Her life was miserable and doomed to only get worse; she glimpsed salvation and jumped for it. Bravo for fighting the only way you knew how.
The setting of the book and the action were good. The characters introduced as mains and people that they cared for were interesting. I enjoy anything about the Tudor time period, especially when it features the royal family and its scandals. The author really put you in the middle of things. You never knew what was going to happen next.
My chief complaint is that I don't feel that anything was accomplished. They set out to change history and they didn't, not even one tiny bit. The 48 wasn't dismantled. The villains mostly live. The protagonists are now rogues on the run... forever? I could forgive this, if I thought this was going to be a series, but I think it's a stand-alone. So, I did a lot of reading, I did like the characters, I loved the history, but for what? I would have given this book a four, if there was even a hint of a sequel to make me feel like there was a reason I read all of that. If it was just to be a historical fiction that gave me an account of what happened in Tudor-time, that'd be cool, but it was time-travel with characters out to accomplish... nothing.
I mean if it was just to prove The 48 was corrupt and they needed to get out, more time needed to be spent on that, with them going on different missions and interacting with more members, especially others they could convince to want to run or who wanted to run. I'm just a bit unsatisfied.
But, it was a fun read. I finished the book in a few hours. I'd recommend it to people who like reading about spies and sibling affection and English history.
May 29, 2025
OH MY GODDD!! There is absolutely nothing bad I can say about this book. The history, 10/10, she obviously did extensive research into the tudor court and mid-evil times when writing this book. The plot, 10/10, the idea that made this book, two time traveling teen assassins coming to turn King Henry VII's court upside down, AMAZING! It was simply such a good plot, no plot-holes whatsoever, which I genuinely struggle with and are the reasons why I don't like a lot of books. The characters, 11/10! The characters in this novel were SO diverse and well rounded! And don't even get me started on their physical descriptions!😫 Simply amazing!! 🤩 Also, the ideas that went into this book are really intriguing. I loved the whole 'traveling to the past to stop the spread of religion' thing that's going on. And the secret lust that I genuinely think is going on between Charlie and Jane just adds so many layers to this already amazing novel. Like, their daisy thing 😭😭, I one hundred percent shed a tear when Charlie went to Jane's grave in the present and left daisy petals. Charlie's time in The Tower, was insane. Like you can feel everything he's going through through Hosie's writing. It's not just in this part either, throughout the whole book Hosie is constantly transmitting complex and fragile emotions through her writing style and its's really just a roller coaster ride of emotions. This ties back to the whole character thing, but the character development in this book is fantastic. Especially in Lady Margaret, her character development was very well written and very interesting. I really loved the part where Charlie had been jumped, (as I'm writing this I'm realizing that Charlie's been through it 😭 like he's been jumped, stuck in The Tower, had to leave the girl (I beleive) he was starting to love behind to die, etc. 😭😭) because it was really interesting to read with all of the parts, characters, and emotions that went into this chunk of the book. All of the characters involved in The 48, they were all insane. (in the best way possible lol) Like, their daisy thing betrayal and the girl that sent them to the past (lowkey forgot her name 😭🤚) just so good, really added to the book. Anyways, definitely read this book it was amazing and so worth it. 😀
February 6, 2019
The 48 is a time travel novel with slight dystopian under tones and a lot of drama. Twin brothers Charles and Alexander are members of a secret society called The 48 that focuses its efforts on changing history to suit whatever agenda they deem important in the present day. They’ve focused on eliminating religion so it’s up to Charlie and Alex to go back in time to make sure Henry VIII doesn’t marry Jane Seymour, though securing the fall of the Catholic religion in England and aiding in The 48’s plot. The story is told in alternating point of views between Charlie, Alex, and Lady Margaret, a young lady in waiting to Queen Anne Boleyn who is interested in wedding one of the boys to escape a marriage her father is planning with an insignificant lord of time.
The positive of this book is we get to see what a budding and endearing relationship Charlie and Alex have. They’re always there for each other no matter what and watching them strive to put the other first and fight for the other is very sweet and leaves the reader feeling warm and snuggly. Hosie’s research is also spot on and while reading you can tell she put a lot of effort into making sure she got her facts right as well as using those facts to paint a better picture of each of the historical characters featured in the novel.
However, I do have to mention, this book is nonstop drama. Within the course of 100 pages, Alex is almost killed twice AND kidnapped. Charlie at one point is poisoned and tortured at another point. People are getting killed and imprisoned left and right and ultimately, it was all very overwhelming and eventually a bit annoying. Because of the drama, there’s no real room for character growth and, though the relationship between the twins is strong, relationships between Alice, Lady Margaret, and Jane fell short. There’s no clarity on who the villain is until the end, it appears that everyone is kind of the bad guy, which is frustrating. Overall, the book is okay, but not memorable and there’s better options for historical fiction.
The positive of this book is we get to see what a budding and endearing relationship Charlie and Alex have. They’re always there for each other no matter what and watching them strive to put the other first and fight for the other is very sweet and leaves the reader feeling warm and snuggly. Hosie’s research is also spot on and while reading you can tell she put a lot of effort into making sure she got her facts right as well as using those facts to paint a better picture of each of the historical characters featured in the novel.
However, I do have to mention, this book is nonstop drama. Within the course of 100 pages, Alex is almost killed twice AND kidnapped. Charlie at one point is poisoned and tortured at another point. People are getting killed and imprisoned left and right and ultimately, it was all very overwhelming and eventually a bit annoying. Because of the drama, there’s no real room for character growth and, though the relationship between the twins is strong, relationships between Alice, Lady Margaret, and Jane fell short. There’s no clarity on who the villain is until the end, it appears that everyone is kind of the bad guy, which is frustrating. Overall, the book is okay, but not memorable and there’s better options for historical fiction.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 24, 2018
The plot in a nutshell: Two teen twins have been raised by a secretive international organization to time travel and to re-write historical moments with the greater good of humanity in mind. On their first mission, to stop Henry VIII from marrying Jane Seymour, nothing goes according to plan. Adventure/danger/squirmy loins ensue.
Although I loved the historical details and found the characters fun and the adventure pretty thrilling, I was bothered by how lightly the concept of time travel and time writing was used as a plot device to bring outsiders to the Tudor court. I also felt like the actual reasoning for targeting Jane Seymour, of all historical figures, was mostly because she is conveniently young and in the Tudor court, not because she was historically significant in regard to eradicating religion. Fun, but not likely to be appreciated by sci fi fans because of the disregard for time travel theory.
Although I loved the historical details and found the characters fun and the adventure pretty thrilling, I was bothered by how lightly the concept of time travel and time writing was used as a plot device to bring outsiders to the Tudor court. I also felt like the actual reasoning for targeting Jane Seymour, of all historical figures, was mostly because she is conveniently young and in the Tudor court, not because she was historically significant in regard to eradicating religion. Fun, but not likely to be appreciated by sci fi fans because of the disregard for time travel theory.
February 14, 2019
This book is weird. If you enjoy historical fiction, this is NOT the book for you for it may take place in the Tudor era of Henry the VIII it is a book about time traveling 'ninjas' which I use the term loosely. You never EVER see them being 'ninjas'. All you get to see are two twins that were raised by a super secret organization that sends people back in time to change it and
They are to keep Henry from marrying Jane Seymour, and nothing else. The story, instead of focusing on history, focuses on the weird relationship of the twins, and the torture of them, and the girl Alice that has no other purpose than to be a mcguffin that fills the role needed at that time of the narrative. Most of the book was of their angst, and nothing else. So it fails as a historical fiction, and it fails as a time traveling adventure, and it fails at a relationship book. It just fails. Do not recommend.
They are to keep Henry from marrying Jane Seymour, and nothing else. The story, instead of focusing on history, focuses on the weird relationship of the twins, and the torture of them, and the girl Alice that has no other purpose than to be a mcguffin that fills the role needed at that time of the narrative. Most of the book was of their angst, and nothing else. So it fails as a historical fiction, and it fails as a time traveling adventure, and it fails at a relationship book. It just fails. Do not recommend.
August 19, 2018
I'll read anything about the Tudors, so I was thrilled to see this YA novel at an ALA conference. While I kept reading to the end, I wasn't as impressed as I wanted to be. I loved the idea--twin brothers travel back to the Tudor court to try to keep Jane Seymour from marrying Henry VII. But things just didn't come together because I had a difficult time telling the two brothers apart. They each narrated parts of the novel, along with a fictional character Lady Margaret who was in Queen Anne's court, but their voices weren't distinct. They are part of a secret group called The 48, traveling back in time to fix history, which, of course, always causes trouble. It just felt like there was too much thrown into this. The plot needed streamlined and then fleshed out so that I could connect to the characters more.
November 27, 2018
Alex and Charlie are twins and have recently arrived in King Henry VIII's court. The court is filled with intrigue as the king's eyes turn from Ann Bolyn to Jane Seymour. Lives and fortunes will be gained and lost in the chess game that is the king's court. But more is going on than you would expect, for Charlie and Alex are members of The 48--a time-traveling organization set to change history for their own ends. They have an assignment, and a limited amount of time. However, history is hard to change, especially when you form alliances, both wanted and unwanted. Now it's not just a matter of completing their assignment, but of getting out alive. And is life with The 48 really what they want, after all? The author immerses readers in the time period, with rich details and well-drawn characters, both fictional and historical. This is an interesting premise and well-executed.
May 20, 2019
Interesting premise. I like the idea of a secret organization that travels through time fixing pieces of history. She we get to their main agenda I was like what?!? They want to eradicate religion. Religion leads to war which is true but so does just plain old hatred.
The Tudor court is also interesting. Henry the VIII is creepy (rightfully so) everyone’s out for their own interest. The sons of Cleves just drop right into the middle of court. Their mission is to stop Henry from marrying Jane Seymour, which they fail at due to a crazy subplot.
This book felt rushed and drawn out at the same time.
The Tudor court is also interesting. Henry the VIII is creepy (rightfully so) everyone’s out for their own interest. The sons of Cleves just drop right into the middle of court. Their mission is to stop Henry from marrying Jane Seymour, which they fail at due to a crazy subplot.
This book felt rushed and drawn out at the same time.
September 21, 2018
I think this would have been better as just historical fiction since the time travel element added nothing to the story. Really it seems like there should have been another book called The 48 in which we actually learn about the 48 and what they do, and this would be the companion novel that follows the minor characters that you really liked from the first book. Interesting concept, lackluster execution.
June 15, 2019
I think this would have been better as just historical fiction since the time travel element added nothing to the story. Really it seems like there should have been another book called The 48 in which we actually learn about the 48 and what they do, and this would be the companion novel that follows the minor characters that you really liked from the first book. Interesting concept, lackluster execution.
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