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Thornleigh #1
The Queen's Lady
Abducted as a child-heiress, Honor Larke escapes to London seeking justice from the only lawyer she knows: the brilliant Sir Thomas More. With More as her affectionate guardian, Honor grows to womanhood, when the glitter of the royal court lures her to attend Her Majesty, Queen Catherine of Aragon. But life at Henry VIII’s court holds more than artifice for an intelligent observer, and Honor knows how to watch—and when to act. . . .
Angered by the humiliation heaped upon her mistress as Henry cavorts with Anne Boleyn and presses Rome for a divorce, Honor volunteers to carry letters to the Queen’s allies. It’s a risky game, but Honor is sure she’s playing it well—until she’s proved wrong. Richard Thornleigh may cut a dashing figure at court, but Honor isn’t taken in by his reckless charm. Only later does Honor realize that Richard has awakened something within her—and that he, too, has something to hide. . .
For the King’s actions are merely one knot in a twisted web that stretches across Europe, ensnaring everyone from the lowliest of peasants to the most powerful of nobles. Swept away in a tide of intrigue and danger, the Queen’s lady is about to learn everything: about pride, passion, greed—and the conscience of the King. . . .
Angered by the humiliation heaped upon her mistress as Henry cavorts with Anne Boleyn and presses Rome for a divorce, Honor volunteers to carry letters to the Queen’s allies. It’s a risky game, but Honor is sure she’s playing it well—until she’s proved wrong. Richard Thornleigh may cut a dashing figure at court, but Honor isn’t taken in by his reckless charm. Only later does Honor realize that Richard has awakened something within her—and that he, too, has something to hide. . .
For the King’s actions are merely one knot in a twisted web that stretches across Europe, ensnaring everyone from the lowliest of peasants to the most powerful of nobles. Swept away in a tide of intrigue and danger, the Queen’s lady is about to learn everything: about pride, passion, greed—and the conscience of the King. . . .
530 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 1994
104 people are currently reading
4361 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Kyle
15 books339 followersThanks for visiting!
Here’s a little about me. Before becoming an author, I enjoyed a twenty-year acting career playing Shakespearean heroines on stage, leading roles in daytime TV dramas, and characters in Disney made-for-TV movies. It felt like a natural extension of my acting to create characters for fiction, and I hope you'll enjoy my novels. Over half a million copies have been sold worldwide.
My seven-book Thornleigh Saga series is set in 16th-century England and follows a middle-class family’s rise through three generations and three tumultuous Tudor reigns. ("Riveting Tudor drama" - USA Today). I’m also the author of acclaimed thrillers.
My new novel, THE DEADLY TRADE, is a murder mystery. I hope you’ll love it!
As a writing mentor I’ve launched many writers on the path to published success. My video course YOUR PATH TO WRITING A PAGE-TURNER shows how to craft a book that excites publishers and thrills readers. It's a Udemy Bestseller! See: https://www.udemy.com/course/your-pat...
My husband and I live in Guelph, a university city in southern Ontario where we enjoy its riverside walks, vibrant arts community, and good-neighborliness.
Happy reading!
Barbara Kyle
P.S. Follow me on Instagram @BarbaraKyleAuthor
Here’s a little about me. Before becoming an author, I enjoyed a twenty-year acting career playing Shakespearean heroines on stage, leading roles in daytime TV dramas, and characters in Disney made-for-TV movies. It felt like a natural extension of my acting to create characters for fiction, and I hope you'll enjoy my novels. Over half a million copies have been sold worldwide.
My seven-book Thornleigh Saga series is set in 16th-century England and follows a middle-class family’s rise through three generations and three tumultuous Tudor reigns. ("Riveting Tudor drama" - USA Today). I’m also the author of acclaimed thrillers.
My new novel, THE DEADLY TRADE, is a murder mystery. I hope you’ll love it!
As a writing mentor I’ve launched many writers on the path to published success. My video course YOUR PATH TO WRITING A PAGE-TURNER shows how to craft a book that excites publishers and thrills readers. It's a Udemy Bestseller! See: https://www.udemy.com/course/your-pat...
My husband and I live in Guelph, a university city in southern Ontario where we enjoy its riverside walks, vibrant arts community, and good-neighborliness.
Happy reading!
Barbara Kyle
P.S. Follow me on Instagram @BarbaraKyleAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews
December 6, 2012
Where I got the book: freebie at the HNS conference in London this year. Signed.
Plot: Pay attention, Dear Reader. The blurb is not a bit like the book I read. Here's how I see it: As a young child, Honor Larke watches her father die excommunicated and robbed by the evil priest Bastwick. She is taken away by a nasty nobleman (name irrelevant as I don't think he has much to do with the rest of the book) to be married to his son for her fortune. Years later, with the help of a faithful servant, she finds herself free of her marriage and the ward of Sir Thomas More, becoming an educated woman who is suited to be a lady in waiting to Queen Catherine of Aragon. Seeing her old servant burned at the stake as a heretic turns Honor against the church and she becomes a kind of double agent, eventually gaining the assistance of handsome merchant Richard Thornleigh. Her passion for rescuing Protestants burns brighter once she discovers the depth of Thomas More's involvement, but her hatred does not outlast More's own death. Bastwick, meanwhile, has become close to the King, and Honor finds that she and Thornleigh are in very great danger.
Actually, it's a lot more complicated than that. I expected a more straightforward romance-type novel; what I got was a twisting saga of a plot with plenty of surprises hiding around the corner. The writing is strong and vivid, more Ken Follett than Philippa Gregory, and I liked Honor despite her inability to remain constant to any kind of belief (More, for all his faults, stuck to his guns). It was quite a surprising view of the sainted More, too; I mean, look at that face.
Oh all right, then.
Could I really imagine Saint More in the grip of lust?
[image error]
OK, enough Jeremy Northam fangirling and BACK TO THE STORY. I thoroughly enjoyed all the twists and the way Kyle wove the Honor/Thornleigh story into the history, with a refreshing lack of sugar-coating and some great action scenes. Plenty of historical detail, too; there were a few places where the language seemed slightly too modern, but on the whole I was right there in the 1500s.
The only things I didn't like were some of the transitions, where we seemed to jump too abruptly into the next phase of Honor's life, and the two-dimensional portrayal of Henry, Catherine and Anne. They play a minor role in the action, so to speak, but they didn't come across as real to me, whereas More, for example, was a complex, fully realized character, fitting beautifully into the plot.
Jeremy, you're such a cutie.
Ahem.
Final verdict: a most enjoyable read, and I will continue with this series. This appears to have been Kyle's debut novel, first published in the 1990s, but the Tudor wave seems to be riding high still and Kyle gives us some pretty solid fuel to feed the addiction.
Plot: Pay attention, Dear Reader. The blurb is not a bit like the book I read. Here's how I see it: As a young child, Honor Larke watches her father die excommunicated and robbed by the evil priest Bastwick. She is taken away by a nasty nobleman (name irrelevant as I don't think he has much to do with the rest of the book) to be married to his son for her fortune. Years later, with the help of a faithful servant, she finds herself free of her marriage and the ward of Sir Thomas More, becoming an educated woman who is suited to be a lady in waiting to Queen Catherine of Aragon. Seeing her old servant burned at the stake as a heretic turns Honor against the church and she becomes a kind of double agent, eventually gaining the assistance of handsome merchant Richard Thornleigh. Her passion for rescuing Protestants burns brighter once she discovers the depth of Thomas More's involvement, but her hatred does not outlast More's own death. Bastwick, meanwhile, has become close to the King, and Honor finds that she and Thornleigh are in very great danger.
Actually, it's a lot more complicated than that. I expected a more straightforward romance-type novel; what I got was a twisting saga of a plot with plenty of surprises hiding around the corner. The writing is strong and vivid, more Ken Follett than Philippa Gregory, and I liked Honor despite her inability to remain constant to any kind of belief (More, for all his faults, stuck to his guns). It was quite a surprising view of the sainted More, too; I mean, look at that face.
Oh all right, then.
Could I really imagine Saint More in the grip of lust?
[image error]
OK, enough Jeremy Northam fangirling and BACK TO THE STORY. I thoroughly enjoyed all the twists and the way Kyle wove the Honor/Thornleigh story into the history, with a refreshing lack of sugar-coating and some great action scenes. Plenty of historical detail, too; there were a few places where the language seemed slightly too modern, but on the whole I was right there in the 1500s.
The only things I didn't like were some of the transitions, where we seemed to jump too abruptly into the next phase of Honor's life, and the two-dimensional portrayal of Henry, Catherine and Anne. They play a minor role in the action, so to speak, but they didn't come across as real to me, whereas More, for example, was a complex, fully realized character, fitting beautifully into the plot.
Jeremy, you're such a cutie.
Ahem.
Final verdict: a most enjoyable read, and I will continue with this series. This appears to have been Kyle's debut novel, first published in the 1990s, but the Tudor wave seems to be riding high still and Kyle gives us some pretty solid fuel to feed the addiction.
October 21, 2008
I found Barbara Kyle’s The Queen’s Lady to be a bit hit & miss. On the positive side there were a lot of twist and turns to the story, which keeps you guessing what is going to happen next. The Tudor history is captivating in itself and this story just shows another viewpoint of Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn and the political and religious players of the time. On the negative side there was a loss of coherency to the story, as it seemed the author wanted to present all the differing religious views of the time, making the story unnecessarily complex. Some of the plot, particularly about the Münsterites and Anabaptists, was quite strange. There is so much going on the story its confusing and I think the chapter divisions would have benefited from an accompanying timeline and not just a specific title.
If you would like to read a similar story (historical fiction, strong female protagonist and a minor study in religious views of the time) I would try Phillipa Gregory's The Queen's Fool. All this said I think I will read the sequel about Isabella Thornleigh. Note that this book was first published in 1994 as A Dangerous Temptation. The sequel featuring Isabella Thornleigh was previously published as A Dangerous Devotion and will be published in February 24, 2009 as The King’s Daughter. I think the timing of the books are suspect, riding on the wave of popularity of The Other Boleyn Girl current pop culture interest in The Tudors.
See more of my reviews at http://myobsessionwithbooks.blogspot....
If you would like to read a similar story (historical fiction, strong female protagonist and a minor study in religious views of the time) I would try Phillipa Gregory's The Queen's Fool. All this said I think I will read the sequel about Isabella Thornleigh. Note that this book was first published in 1994 as A Dangerous Temptation. The sequel featuring Isabella Thornleigh was previously published as A Dangerous Devotion and will be published in February 24, 2009 as The King’s Daughter. I think the timing of the books are suspect, riding on the wave of popularity of The Other Boleyn Girl current pop culture interest in The Tudors.
See more of my reviews at http://myobsessionwithbooks.blogspot....
December 2, 2018
I forced myself to get through it, but only because I hate leaving books unfinished, even the terrible ones. I always hope that the story will surprise me. This one did not; it was just bad from the first page to last. The plot was ridiculously predictable and tedious.
March 1, 2010
A Aia da Rainha é um romance histórico que conta a história de Honor Larke, uma jovem que, após ter ficado sem família, se torna protegida do famoso Thomas More e, mais tarde, ascende ao cargo de aia da rainha Catarina de Aragão na altura em que Henrique VIII começou a luta com a Igreja para conseguir o divórcio e casar com Ana Bolena. Este livro é o primeiro da série Tornleigh e, segundo a informação na badana do livro, o segundo, A Filha do Rei, irá ser publicado em breve por cá. O terceiro, The Queen’s Captive, tem publicação prevista para Agosto deste ano, no original.
O título do livro é um pouco enganador, uma vez que só numa primeira fase a história se centra nas funções de Honor como aia de Catarina de Aragão, até que começa a ser dado mais destaque às iniciativas de Honor para salvar os hereges de serem condenados à morte, com a ajuda de Richard Tornleigh, um mercador que disponibiliza os seus barcos para transportar essas pessoas, às escondidas, para outros países. Aliás, toda a história (mais que conhecida) de como Henrique VIII se quis “livrar” da sua primeira esposa e do seu relacionamento com Ana Bolena, é apenas um enredo secundário cujos desenvolvimentos vamos seguindo amiúde ao longo do livro, mais como contexto histórico.
Como disse, Honor leva a cabo diversas iniciativas para salvar as pessoas que eram condenadas por heresia, para o que bastavam coisas tão simples como transportar traduções inglesas da Bíblia, da autoria de William Tyndale, que a Igreja considerava desvirtuar o sentido das palavras originais (curioso que, como a autora refere na nota final, tenha sido precisamente esta tradução a servir de base a uma tradução posterior autorizada pela Igreja). O livro dedica grandes secções às ideias religiosas correntes no século XVI em Inglaterra (e um pouco por toda a Europa), mas de uma forma sempre interessante e pouco fastidiosa. A personagem principal tem vários diálogos bastante eloquentes com Thomas More ou com Erasmo de Roterdão, por exemplo, que ajudam o leitor a familiarizar-se com as ideias religiosas vigentes na época.
Para além disso, o livro contém aventura, romance e intriga q.b., que me manteve quase sempre agarrada à história e com vontade de saber o que ia acontecer. Gostei do facto de a autora ter escolhido não dar tanto destaque a Henrique VIII e afins, até porque quem se interessa por este período histórico já leu certamente outros livros em que a sua história é mais desenvolvida (por exemplo, Duas Irmãs, um Rei, de Phillipa Gregory). Portanto, acho que acaba por ser uma abordagem diferente, mas que gostei bastante. Tenho apenas a apontar algumas partes do enredo que julgo que poderiam ter sido suprimidas a bem da fluidez da narrativa.
Termino esta opinião com algo que acho valer a pena destacar, especialmente num livro com tantas páginas: não encontrei uma única gralha nesta tradução, e já nem me lembro do último livro em que isto aconteceu. Os meus parabéns à tradutora e ao responsável pela revisão.
O título do livro é um pouco enganador, uma vez que só numa primeira fase a história se centra nas funções de Honor como aia de Catarina de Aragão, até que começa a ser dado mais destaque às iniciativas de Honor para salvar os hereges de serem condenados à morte, com a ajuda de Richard Tornleigh, um mercador que disponibiliza os seus barcos para transportar essas pessoas, às escondidas, para outros países. Aliás, toda a história (mais que conhecida) de como Henrique VIII se quis “livrar” da sua primeira esposa e do seu relacionamento com Ana Bolena, é apenas um enredo secundário cujos desenvolvimentos vamos seguindo amiúde ao longo do livro, mais como contexto histórico.
Como disse, Honor leva a cabo diversas iniciativas para salvar as pessoas que eram condenadas por heresia, para o que bastavam coisas tão simples como transportar traduções inglesas da Bíblia, da autoria de William Tyndale, que a Igreja considerava desvirtuar o sentido das palavras originais (curioso que, como a autora refere na nota final, tenha sido precisamente esta tradução a servir de base a uma tradução posterior autorizada pela Igreja). O livro dedica grandes secções às ideias religiosas correntes no século XVI em Inglaterra (e um pouco por toda a Europa), mas de uma forma sempre interessante e pouco fastidiosa. A personagem principal tem vários diálogos bastante eloquentes com Thomas More ou com Erasmo de Roterdão, por exemplo, que ajudam o leitor a familiarizar-se com as ideias religiosas vigentes na época.
Para além disso, o livro contém aventura, romance e intriga q.b., que me manteve quase sempre agarrada à história e com vontade de saber o que ia acontecer. Gostei do facto de a autora ter escolhido não dar tanto destaque a Henrique VIII e afins, até porque quem se interessa por este período histórico já leu certamente outros livros em que a sua história é mais desenvolvida (por exemplo, Duas Irmãs, um Rei, de Phillipa Gregory). Portanto, acho que acaba por ser uma abordagem diferente, mas que gostei bastante. Tenho apenas a apontar algumas partes do enredo que julgo que poderiam ter sido suprimidas a bem da fluidez da narrativa.
Termino esta opinião com algo que acho valer a pena destacar, especialmente num livro com tantas páginas: não encontrei uma única gralha nesta tradução, e já nem me lembro do último livro em que isto aconteceu. Os meus parabéns à tradutora e ao responsável pela revisão.
December 9, 2011
Ler o A Aia da Rainha veio confirmar e realçar o meu gosto pelos romances históricos. Barbara Kyle é uma óptima contadora de história, principalmente se esta contiver muitos factos reais.
Começando pela capa, com o genial pormenor do anel, e pela sinopse, um pouco infiel ao livro, somos conquistados desde o primeiro olhar ao exemplar. O conteúdo vem apenas mostrar-nos que não nos enganámos e que cada segundo a ler estas linhas não foi tempo desperdiçado.
Todo o texto é rico em figuras de estilo, comparações, frases profundas e cheias de sentido de humor ou verdade nua e crua. Aqui a escritora não poupa sensibilidades, mostrando-nos a natureza humana sem floreados ou com palavras bonitas, contando-nos com pormenor todos os actos mortais que os homens faziam uns aos outros (desde a fogueira, a guerras e conquistas, ou até a decapitações e enforcamentos).
O teor religioso e a evolução da personagem principal Honor Larke, principalmente as suas últimas crenças e conclusões, contribuíram para rechear ainda mais. Aqui neste livro não há a chamada "palha" ou "conversa de chacha", há sim história, línguas, literatura, música, e, principalmente, ensinamentos de moral, coragem, solidariedade e amor. A acção e a aventura estão também presentes em todos os capítulos, combatendo a monotonia que certos assuntos poderiam provocar.
O meu personagem preferido é, com certeza, Sam Jinner: carinhoso, corajoso, humilde, simples, fiel, ... conquistou-me logo na primeira cena em que aparece. Este é o ponto mais positivo de Barbara Kyle, o facto de todas as personagens estarem tão bem desenvolvidas, cada uma com uma personalidade distinta, com crenças e desejos que se cruzam, mas que ao mesmo tempo são opostas. Aqui todas elas actuam com segundas intenções, que são boas ou más consoante o personagem. Todas sofrem uma evolução, não tanto como a personagem principal. Estas alterações, estes pormenores e desenvolvimentos contribuem para que o leitor odeie uma metade e defenda outra.
Mas nem tudo são rosas.
Os saltos no tempo demasiado drásticos, acabando abruptamente algumas cenas com mais carga emocional, parecendo que a personagem principal esquece assuntos importantes demasiado rápido, lacunas na história/pontos mal limados que são deixados em aberto como o destino final do anel, do rei, da rainha-mãe, da filha de Honor, de Ana Bolena, de Erasmo, etc. Acredito que muitos destes serão esclarecidos no próximo volume.
Começando pela capa, com o genial pormenor do anel, e pela sinopse, um pouco infiel ao livro, somos conquistados desde o primeiro olhar ao exemplar. O conteúdo vem apenas mostrar-nos que não nos enganámos e que cada segundo a ler estas linhas não foi tempo desperdiçado.
Todo o texto é rico em figuras de estilo, comparações, frases profundas e cheias de sentido de humor ou verdade nua e crua. Aqui a escritora não poupa sensibilidades, mostrando-nos a natureza humana sem floreados ou com palavras bonitas, contando-nos com pormenor todos os actos mortais que os homens faziam uns aos outros (desde a fogueira, a guerras e conquistas, ou até a decapitações e enforcamentos).
O teor religioso e a evolução da personagem principal Honor Larke, principalmente as suas últimas crenças e conclusões, contribuíram para rechear ainda mais. Aqui neste livro não há a chamada "palha" ou "conversa de chacha", há sim história, línguas, literatura, música, e, principalmente, ensinamentos de moral, coragem, solidariedade e amor. A acção e a aventura estão também presentes em todos os capítulos, combatendo a monotonia que certos assuntos poderiam provocar.
O meu personagem preferido é, com certeza, Sam Jinner: carinhoso, corajoso, humilde, simples, fiel, ... conquistou-me logo na primeira cena em que aparece. Este é o ponto mais positivo de Barbara Kyle, o facto de todas as personagens estarem tão bem desenvolvidas, cada uma com uma personalidade distinta, com crenças e desejos que se cruzam, mas que ao mesmo tempo são opostas. Aqui todas elas actuam com segundas intenções, que são boas ou más consoante o personagem. Todas sofrem uma evolução, não tanto como a personagem principal. Estas alterações, estes pormenores e desenvolvimentos contribuem para que o leitor odeie uma metade e defenda outra.
Mas nem tudo são rosas.
Os saltos no tempo demasiado drásticos, acabando abruptamente algumas cenas com mais carga emocional, parecendo que a personagem principal esquece assuntos importantes demasiado rápido, lacunas na história/pontos mal limados que são deixados em aberto como o destino final do anel, do rei, da rainha-mãe, da filha de Honor, de Ana Bolena, de Erasmo, etc. Acredito que muitos destes serão esclarecidos no próximo volume.
January 13, 2014
I finished reading The Queen's Lady over holiday break, and it is easily the best book I've read all year. Kyle tells her thought-provoking story from both sides of the conflict between the Catholic and Protestant churches. There is a profound message in this book about faith and organized religion that gives it real soul.
Honor Larke is a lady in waiting, to Queen Catherine of Aragon. But do not think for a moment this is a simple book about a maid at court, sewing tears in Queen Catherine’s skirts. Kyle plumbs the depths of faith and zealotry inside of a fast-paced story about a young lady who searches for truth in religion and doubts her own faith in the church and even God.
The novel has a wide scope that is fulfilling, but the story never drags with the weight of a history lesson or a cast of characters you can't memorize. Decent but flawed characters give such immediacy to this story. There is an honest ambivalence in all of them and a realistic thirst for self-preservation that I don’t often read. Kyle is brutally candid with her readers about the violence of the time, and the pain and suffering feels so real at moments, you are right there in the midst of a fire, or passing through the consciousness of your very existence into a euphoric death.
The message in this novel will keep you thinking long after you’ve read the last page. This would be an excellent book club read. I can't wait to read the rest of the Thornleigh series.
Honor Larke is a lady in waiting, to Queen Catherine of Aragon. But do not think for a moment this is a simple book about a maid at court, sewing tears in Queen Catherine’s skirts. Kyle plumbs the depths of faith and zealotry inside of a fast-paced story about a young lady who searches for truth in religion and doubts her own faith in the church and even God.
The novel has a wide scope that is fulfilling, but the story never drags with the weight of a history lesson or a cast of characters you can't memorize. Decent but flawed characters give such immediacy to this story. There is an honest ambivalence in all of them and a realistic thirst for self-preservation that I don’t often read. Kyle is brutally candid with her readers about the violence of the time, and the pain and suffering feels so real at moments, you are right there in the midst of a fire, or passing through the consciousness of your very existence into a euphoric death.
The message in this novel will keep you thinking long after you’ve read the last page. This would be an excellent book club read. I can't wait to read the rest of the Thornleigh series.
August 3, 2016
I am not a history buff. The only thing that I remember about King Henry is that he liked to chop of his wives' heads. And that is all I got out of that lecture in high school.
But this book was more than just history. Albeit, there was a lot, though no more than expected from reading the blurb. The story built well off of actual events, and the author's character fit seamlessly into the plot.
Honor is an awesome character. She went through so much in her life. She is truly a heroine in my eyes. Her strength and bravery were amazing. And I loved how she seemed like a real person. There are many historical romances that seem completely bogus. This was not one of them.
Honor's thoughts and feelings towards the men in her life made the series much more likable. I'll admit, I'm not one to read stories without romance. But I didn't find myself bored during the times in this novel that had none.
I sincerely enjoyed this and will continue with the series, though not right away. My brain is still processing all of that information! I definitely recommend this and hope you enjoy it, too.
But this book was more than just history. Albeit, there was a lot, though no more than expected from reading the blurb. The story built well off of actual events, and the author's character fit seamlessly into the plot.
Honor is an awesome character. She went through so much in her life. She is truly a heroine in my eyes. Her strength and bravery were amazing. And I loved how she seemed like a real person. There are many historical romances that seem completely bogus. This was not one of them.
Honor's thoughts and feelings towards the men in her life made the series much more likable. I'll admit, I'm not one to read stories without romance. But I didn't find myself bored during the times in this novel that had none.
I sincerely enjoyed this and will continue with the series, though not right away. My brain is still processing all of that information! I definitely recommend this and hope you enjoy it, too.
July 8, 2010
I read this years ago when it was A Dangerous Temptation. The old edition looks like a romance novel, the new one looks like a Philippa Gregory novel, but both of these impressions are kind of misleading. There's a romance, yeah, but the novel focuses mainly on the religious tensions in 16th century Europe and how the various sects tortured, burned, and otherwise oppressed anyone who believed differently. Engrossing if you're a historical fiction buff, but incredibly bleak for long stretches.
April 9, 2014
Note: I listened to the audiobook version of this novel.
When I read Blood Between Queens, the fifth book in the Thornleigh series, I was hooked! Being a huge fan of any novels that take place during Tudor times I was happy to see the well known history shown from the perspective of this fictional yet very real feeling family that have been tangled up in the world of the court since the beginning of Henry VIII's rule. But starting the series on book five brought up just as many questions as were answered. What brought these captivating people into the vicious world of the Tudor court? How had the family rivalry affecting our main heroine come to be? That being said, when I had the opportunity to listen to the audiobook version of the first novel in the series, The Queen's Lady, I jumped at the chance. And, I'm happy to say, I was not disappointed!
The Queen's Lady tells the story of Honor Larke, a young heiress that becomes the ward of Thomas More after a horrific kidnapping and rescue. Under the tutelage of More, Honor grows to become an intelligent and caring young woman, firm in the belief that her guardian can do no wrong. That is until he does...
As a lady-in-waiting to Catherine of Aragon, Honor is astounded to see the great Henry VIII try and thrust his devout and loving wife aside for the brash and grasping Anne Boleyn. Deciding to do all she can for her mistress, Honor begins carrying letters from the Queen to her allies. As she gets deeper and deeper involved, often putting her own life in danger, she begins to question everything she grew up believing, including the teachings of More. Her beliefs are further confounded when she begins working with Richard Thornleigh, a daring and reckless man who at first annoys Honor to no end but ends up winning her heart. As their relationship continues to evolve Honor must decide what is most important to her: the good she can do by continuing her work as a spy or the love and home Richard can provide for her?
Honor is such a wonderful character, full of spunk, bravery and humor. I loved watching her continue to struggle with her political and religious beliefs as well as her complicated love with Richard Thornleigh. I now feel like I have a good bases for the series and cannot wait to read the next three books in the series and any other that come after that.
When I read Blood Between Queens, the fifth book in the Thornleigh series, I was hooked! Being a huge fan of any novels that take place during Tudor times I was happy to see the well known history shown from the perspective of this fictional yet very real feeling family that have been tangled up in the world of the court since the beginning of Henry VIII's rule. But starting the series on book five brought up just as many questions as were answered. What brought these captivating people into the vicious world of the Tudor court? How had the family rivalry affecting our main heroine come to be? That being said, when I had the opportunity to listen to the audiobook version of the first novel in the series, The Queen's Lady, I jumped at the chance. And, I'm happy to say, I was not disappointed!
The Queen's Lady tells the story of Honor Larke, a young heiress that becomes the ward of Thomas More after a horrific kidnapping and rescue. Under the tutelage of More, Honor grows to become an intelligent and caring young woman, firm in the belief that her guardian can do no wrong. That is until he does...
As a lady-in-waiting to Catherine of Aragon, Honor is astounded to see the great Henry VIII try and thrust his devout and loving wife aside for the brash and grasping Anne Boleyn. Deciding to do all she can for her mistress, Honor begins carrying letters from the Queen to her allies. As she gets deeper and deeper involved, often putting her own life in danger, she begins to question everything she grew up believing, including the teachings of More. Her beliefs are further confounded when she begins working with Richard Thornleigh, a daring and reckless man who at first annoys Honor to no end but ends up winning her heart. As their relationship continues to evolve Honor must decide what is most important to her: the good she can do by continuing her work as a spy or the love and home Richard can provide for her?
Honor is such a wonderful character, full of spunk, bravery and humor. I loved watching her continue to struggle with her political and religious beliefs as well as her complicated love with Richard Thornleigh. I now feel like I have a good bases for the series and cannot wait to read the next three books in the series and any other that come after that.
January 28, 2014
As posted at www.justonemorechapter.com
Here I sit and *sigh* as I type this review hanging my head, I can't believe that it has taken so long to read this book The whole series has been sitting on my shelf for a number of years. Why did I wait so long? I am not sure if it was the cover that provoked a 'bodice ripping feel' or maybe I was thinking that I couldn't handle another Anne Boleyn story. How mistaken I was!
I was thrilled to hear that this book was going to be made into an audiobook with the author herself doing the reading. Barbara Kyle did a wonderful job of reading this book, she brought the story to life with her different accents and the right amount of emotion (not too much and not too little).
The first book in the Thornleigh series (there are 5 of them at present), set during the reign of Henry VIII during the time of his obsession with Anne Boleyn. I mostly like to read about real historical figures (it is fun to be entertained at the same time as learning some history). Though this book is based on real historical events, the theme here varied from Catherine of Aragon to the religious conflicts to Thomas More, Anne Boleyn and more.
However, the two main protagonist are fictional and I wasn't sure what I would think of that. First introduced to Honor Lark when only 7 years old I was captivated. Thomas More becomes her guardian and so begins her story. Her journey was a pleasure to watch, it was
written with feeling and showed the effect the time period had on the people of England under the rule of Henry VIII. She grew into a woman of conviction who took too many risks for what she believed in. This book moved along at a steady pace and I had a hard time stopping,
there was a lot going on, mystery, intrigue, romance, conflicts and more.
The only reason that I did not jump right into the next book (The Queen's Daughter) was that I didn't have enough credits left at Audible. Once I have that I will definitely continue with this
series.
Here I sit and *sigh* as I type this review hanging my head, I can't believe that it has taken so long to read this book The whole series has been sitting on my shelf for a number of years. Why did I wait so long? I am not sure if it was the cover that provoked a 'bodice ripping feel' or maybe I was thinking that I couldn't handle another Anne Boleyn story. How mistaken I was!
I was thrilled to hear that this book was going to be made into an audiobook with the author herself doing the reading. Barbara Kyle did a wonderful job of reading this book, she brought the story to life with her different accents and the right amount of emotion (not too much and not too little).
The first book in the Thornleigh series (there are 5 of them at present), set during the reign of Henry VIII during the time of his obsession with Anne Boleyn. I mostly like to read about real historical figures (it is fun to be entertained at the same time as learning some history). Though this book is based on real historical events, the theme here varied from Catherine of Aragon to the religious conflicts to Thomas More, Anne Boleyn and more.
However, the two main protagonist are fictional and I wasn't sure what I would think of that. First introduced to Honor Lark when only 7 years old I was captivated. Thomas More becomes her guardian and so begins her story. Her journey was a pleasure to watch, it was
written with feeling and showed the effect the time period had on the people of England under the rule of Henry VIII. She grew into a woman of conviction who took too many risks for what she believed in. This book moved along at a steady pace and I had a hard time stopping,
there was a lot going on, mystery, intrigue, romance, conflicts and more.
The only reason that I did not jump right into the next book (The Queen's Daughter) was that I didn't have enough credits left at Audible. Once I have that I will definitely continue with this
series.
January 24, 2017
This book started out really interesting, sucking me in like a tornado. Then it started to turn south. The book jumps in several places, and this was the author's first mistake. The first jump takes the main character, Honor, to the home and care of Thomas Moore. Though the author gives you the backstory of how she got there the reader never sees the relationship between Moore and Honor develop, which turns out to be essential to the story. The rest of the plot is based on the feelings between these two characters so it becomes difficult to really believe the story when you never felt a connection to begin with.
I think the other thing that really turned me off from this story was how it kept going and going from strange event to strange event. It seemed the character was so out of place and out of time, as if someone from this century were stuck in the 16th century. Overall I just really couldn't connect with the characters or believe the plot.
I think the other thing that really turned me off from this story was how it kept going and going from strange event to strange event. It seemed the character was so out of place and out of time, as if someone from this century were stuck in the 16th century. Overall I just really couldn't connect with the characters or believe the plot.
May 21, 2011
Honor Larke is unusual for her time. Catholics persecuted protestants while protestants persecuted Catholics. All Honor knows is these people have done nothing to deserve to be burned. While serving Queen Catherine, she is drawn into intrigue to save protestants. Along the way she meets Richard Thornleigh who helps her while danger stalks their heels. Eramus also appears here. A thriller within a romance, I read this with a racing heart, never knowing what the next page will bring.
Barbara Kyle brings an element of danger and risk as well as a cleverly twisting plot to this tale that ends all too soon but continues with her next book, The King's Daughter.
Barbara Kyle brings an element of danger and risk as well as a cleverly twisting plot to this tale that ends all too soon but continues with her next book, The King's Daughter.
August 31, 2019
I did not like this book. All of the characters were bland and one dimensional. Most egregious was the main heroine Honor, who was an annoying naif with no discernible flaws. The plot was intermittent, to be replaced by pages-long political or religious speeches. Worst of all, the author was somehow able to take the most turbulent and complex years in Early Modern England and turn them into an over-simplified, black & white world (All Protestants = good, all Catholics = evil). I gave it two stars because the prose was well-written and I did enjoy about the first quarter to half of the book. I won't bother with the rest of the series though.
January 30, 2019
Honor is taken in, as a ward, by Sir Thomas More during Henry VIII’s reign in the 16th century. At this time, Henry is trying to find a way to get rid of his first wife Catherine, so he can marry Anne Boleyn. When Honor is old enough, she goes to Catherine and serves her. But, she gets caught up in the religious conflicts going on at the time, and things become dangerous.
It was ok, but I just lost interest at times (this was not an audio!). Some of it held my interest, but there were too many dry patches for my liking. The historical note at the end was nice. Obviously, Honor was fictional, as were her close friends, etc.
It was ok, but I just lost interest at times (this was not an audio!). Some of it held my interest, but there were too many dry patches for my liking. The historical note at the end was nice. Obviously, Honor was fictional, as were her close friends, etc.
March 18, 2019
Gostei muito deste livro... até à parte da saída de Friburgo, embora já o "encontro" na Ponte de Londres me tenha causado má impressão... Não sou mais explícita, para no caso de futur@s leitor@s lerem este comentário, não revelar muito da história.
Assinalei aqueles episódios, porque acho que até eles a história estava bastante bem "esgalhada", mas a partir daí pareceu-me mais do estilo de argumento de filme (ou telefilme) do que propriamente romance histórico. E a "cena" da ponte pareceu-me mesmo do estilo de um guião cinematográfico...
No entanto, como estes "acontecimentos" surgem na parte final do livro, no geral gostei muito de ler este livro.
Assinalei aqueles episódios, porque acho que até eles a história estava bastante bem "esgalhada", mas a partir daí pareceu-me mais do estilo de argumento de filme (ou telefilme) do que propriamente romance histórico. E a "cena" da ponte pareceu-me mesmo do estilo de um guião cinematográfico...
No entanto, como estes "acontecimentos" surgem na parte final do livro, no geral gostei muito de ler este livro.
June 6, 2014
I love the complexity of this story and the twists and turns throughout. Barbara Kyle tackled a turbulent and thorny subject of pre-restoration England with great finesse while maintaining a compelling story and equally compelling characters.
July 27, 2020
Wow! This is incredible!!
Real life is skilfully blended with fiction.
Sir Thomas More, King Henry VIII, Queen Catherine - all real.
Mistress Larke weaves between them all yet is fictional.
The full list of fictional vs real characters is handily included the back of the book.
I love that this story doesn't centre around the king himself; he's there more as a backdrop although we do get pulled into his machinations.
Honor Larke is the main character. She has a turbulent life, and always strives to do what is right. The trouble is, in such dark times it's hard to know what right truly is.
Some of the situations, well, it's a fictional novel - there's plenty of action. It's feasible. And kept me awake more than one night as I had to keep turning the pages.
Plenty of swoon-worthy moments too. No spoilers, but the guy...! Oh my!
Religion is questioned heavily. We have Catholics, which we know had a rough time in this era. And the heretics are running rampant. Theologians help us explore the options.
This book is written so it's easily understandable by the modern reader. But the depth of description makes you feel as if you're in Tudor England - sights and smells all included without being overly bogged down by these details. Beautifully done!
The amount of research that's gone into this is both staggering and evident.
Mystery, intrigue, plots...everything you'd expect from a Tudor book.
A captivating historical romance.
Real life is skilfully blended with fiction.
Sir Thomas More, King Henry VIII, Queen Catherine - all real.
Mistress Larke weaves between them all yet is fictional.
The full list of fictional vs real characters is handily included the back of the book.
I love that this story doesn't centre around the king himself; he's there more as a backdrop although we do get pulled into his machinations.
Honor Larke is the main character. She has a turbulent life, and always strives to do what is right. The trouble is, in such dark times it's hard to know what right truly is.
Some of the situations, well, it's a fictional novel - there's plenty of action. It's feasible. And kept me awake more than one night as I had to keep turning the pages.
Plenty of swoon-worthy moments too. No spoilers, but the guy...! Oh my!
Religion is questioned heavily. We have Catholics, which we know had a rough time in this era. And the heretics are running rampant. Theologians help us explore the options.
This book is written so it's easily understandable by the modern reader. But the depth of description makes you feel as if you're in Tudor England - sights and smells all included without being overly bogged down by these details. Beautifully done!
The amount of research that's gone into this is both staggering and evident.
Mystery, intrigue, plots...everything you'd expect from a Tudor book.
A captivating historical romance.
July 30, 2018
I had to read this for a Book Club, and I tried. I really really did try to enter into the spirit of this, to appreciate it for its good points,and not expect it to be flawlessly historically accurate.
And I made it to page 100 before I admitted to myself that Kyle's complete lack of understanding of the attitudes, mores and expectations of early 16th century women just made it impossible to take this bit of nonsense seriously, or to enjoy it. Young ladies of the social class Kyle is writing about did NOT wander around London, using the riverbarges as if they were Uber. Ladies in waiting to the Queen did NOT nip home whenever they pleased, to have a nice cuppa with their foster family.
Ugh.
And I made it to page 100 before I admitted to myself that Kyle's complete lack of understanding of the attitudes, mores and expectations of early 16th century women just made it impossible to take this bit of nonsense seriously, or to enjoy it. Young ladies of the social class Kyle is writing about did NOT wander around London, using the riverbarges as if they were Uber. Ladies in waiting to the Queen did NOT nip home whenever they pleased, to have a nice cuppa with their foster family.
Ugh.
August 15, 2017
Enjoyed this book very much. It helped make the era and the people of the time come to life. I would like to read more by this author.
April 11, 2020
Overall good book but if your looking for this book to be historical fiction about Henry VIII court you will be disappointed. The book has very little to do with it. Description on back of book has not much to do with the book.
November 11, 2013
Wow, what a book and what a roller coaster of a story that I enjoyed every moment of. Honor Larke is orphaned at 7 years old when her father abruptly dies excommunicated from the church. This terrible moment becomes the building blocks for her questions of faith. She is kidnapped by the priest who excommunicated her father and sold to a man who will then collect her land and titles when she is forced to marry his son. Eventually she is able to escape this situation with the help of her loyal servant Ralph. She flee's to Thomas More's home, a lawyer who she believes will be able to help her. She becomes More's ward and has a happy childhood learning from his teachings. Eventually she decides to leave More's home to become a lady-in-waiting to Queen Catherine where she gets sucked into the intrigues of court. King Henry is in the process of trying to get an annulment to his marriage to Catherine since he is disgusted by her inability to give him a son and believes that by marrying Anne Boleyn he will be able to get a male heir. After some time in court she see's her loyal servant Ralph, who she has not seen since they both fled, and he is being burned at the stake for crimes of heresy. This begins her question of the Catholic faith and its ability to kill good people because they question the teachings. She gets pulled into the Protestant vs Catholic fight, and while raised by Thomas More, a staunch Catholic, she believes in the Catholic religion but feels it is not right to kill people because of what they believe in. Thus begins her fight against the church to save those they label as "heretics". Eventually she falls in love with Richard Thornleigh and they marry. She is happy with him but continues to fight what she believes is the terrible injustice of the Catholic church. The story continues with many mysteries and plot changes that kept me on the edge of my seat. I absolutely loved it.
Kyle created characters I fell in love with. Honor's plight and struggles to do what she believed were right became something I also longed to see happen. I loved Thornleigh, and their relationship felt beautiful, I was so happy they both were able to get their HEA. This review does not do the book justice, it has such an intriguing plot that only a review pages in length could begin to scratch the surface. I will look for more books by this author.
Kyle created characters I fell in love with. Honor's plight and struggles to do what she believed were right became something I also longed to see happen. I loved Thornleigh, and their relationship felt beautiful, I was so happy they both were able to get their HEA. This review does not do the book justice, it has such an intriguing plot that only a review pages in length could begin to scratch the surface. I will look for more books by this author.
February 16, 2016
Blurb: London, 1527. Marry or serve: for Honor Larke, the choice is clear. Unwilling to perish of boredom as an obedient wife, she leaves the home of her ward, the brilliant Sir Thomas More, to attend Her Majesty, Queen Catherine of Aragon. But life at Henry VIII's court holds more than artifice for an intelligent observer, and Honor knows how to watch--and when to act...
Angered by the humiliation heaped upon her mistress as Henry cavorts with Anne Boleyn and presses Rome for a divorce, Honor volunteers to carry letters to the Queen's allies. It's a risky game, but Honor is sure she's playing it well--until she's proven wrong. Richard Thornleigh may cut a dashing figure at court, but Honor isn't taken in by his reckless charm. Only later does Honor realize that Richard has awakened something within her--and that he, too, has something to hide...
Honor Larkin is a ward of Sir Thomas Moore, a man she loves as a father. She is sent to be a lady-in-waiting for Queen Catherine of Aragon, who is being rejected by the king as he waits for the pope to grant him an annulment so he can marry Anne Boleyn. She becomes embroiled in smuggling letters on the queen 19s behalf to members of her family. It is then that Honor discovers the prosecution of Protestants. Honor takes up the cause and becomes embroiled in working for their cause, putting her life at risk. During her intrigues, she meets a dashing, sometimes outrageous man named Richard Thornleigh with whom a romance blooms.
Although The Queen's Lady is set in the time of the Tudors, thankfully, the Tudors are mostly in the background rather than the foreground. So those who have had their fill of the Tudors, you need not hesitate to pick this novel up. Barbara Kyle writes with clarity and detail so that the novel plays like a movie as you read. There is plenty of danger, intrigue, and humor to delight and hold your interest. Richard Thornleigh is so dashing, so spectacularly smart and honorable, that one cannot help but like this fabulous romantic hero. With its many twists and turns, rich plot, and vivid characters, this is one of the finest historical fiction novels of this era!
June 2, 2012
There’s plenty to like about this novel but I’m going to focus on something that really impressed me: Barbara Kyle pulls off a major feat of character development for her protagonist, Honor Larke.
Honor grows up during a time when England is in the early stages of Protestant reform, when Henry VIII is trying to divorce his first queen, and the official religion of the realm is coming down hard on "heretics". Torture, betrayal, and burnings intimidate the population but also feed rebellion.
When we first meet Honor, she is orphaned, then tricked out of her inheritance through the conniving of a greedy priest and an impoverished knight. Sir Thomas More makes her his ward, punishes the evil-doers, and gets her back her family estates. He also gives her an exceptional education. She loves Sir Thomas like a father and respects him like no other. Then at age seventeen, Honor goes to court to wait on Queen Catherine of Aragon. The Queen’s kindness binds Honor to her with real love, and the Queen’s plight moves Honor to carry secret messages for Katharine.
Beloved ward of the saintly Thomas More, whose integrity even his harshest enemies could not tarnish. Lady-in-waiting to Catherine of Aragon, surely the most wronged of Henry’s wives, but who carried herself with true royal dignity until the end. All this should put Honor squarely in the Catholic camp. Could Kyle have invented a situation where a young woman would be less inclined to switch sides?
Yet within the space of a few years, Honor betrays Catherine’s trust, estranges herself from Thomas More, allies herself with Thomas Cromwell, and begins smuggling Protestants out of danger. And Kyle brings this about in a way that is believable and consistent with Honor’s character, education, and upbringing.
This change of heart is not just about Honor Larke. By taking us on Honor’s inner journey, Kyle helps us understand the soul-searching and anguish of ordinary Englishmen who took that same journey and changed history.
Honor grows up during a time when England is in the early stages of Protestant reform, when Henry VIII is trying to divorce his first queen, and the official religion of the realm is coming down hard on "heretics". Torture, betrayal, and burnings intimidate the population but also feed rebellion.
When we first meet Honor, she is orphaned, then tricked out of her inheritance through the conniving of a greedy priest and an impoverished knight. Sir Thomas More makes her his ward, punishes the evil-doers, and gets her back her family estates. He also gives her an exceptional education. She loves Sir Thomas like a father and respects him like no other. Then at age seventeen, Honor goes to court to wait on Queen Catherine of Aragon. The Queen’s kindness binds Honor to her with real love, and the Queen’s plight moves Honor to carry secret messages for Katharine.
Beloved ward of the saintly Thomas More, whose integrity even his harshest enemies could not tarnish. Lady-in-waiting to Catherine of Aragon, surely the most wronged of Henry’s wives, but who carried herself with true royal dignity until the end. All this should put Honor squarely in the Catholic camp. Could Kyle have invented a situation where a young woman would be less inclined to switch sides?
Yet within the space of a few years, Honor betrays Catherine’s trust, estranges herself from Thomas More, allies herself with Thomas Cromwell, and begins smuggling Protestants out of danger. And Kyle brings this about in a way that is believable and consistent with Honor’s character, education, and upbringing.
This change of heart is not just about Honor Larke. By taking us on Honor’s inner journey, Kyle helps us understand the soul-searching and anguish of ordinary Englishmen who took that same journey and changed history.
November 17, 2012
Sou uma fascinada pelos Tudor! Admito que tenho um fraquinho por essa parte da história da Inglaterra que, no fundo, alterou todo um país! Henrique VIII foi um rei que viveu tantas emoções que o resultado só pode ser belíssimos romances históricos como este. Não conhecia a obra de Barbara Kyle, mas assim que soube da existência desta série, a curiosidade aguçou-me.
Neste livro acompanhamos Honor Larke, umas das aias (e a mais fiel) de Catarina de Aragão, numa altura em que a rainha está a ser desprezada pelo rei por este ansiar por um divórcio para poder desposar Ana Bolena, cumprindo o seu desejo de ter um filho barão (que como sabemos não foi concretizado). Mas este não é um livro sobre os Tudor ou sobre Catarina de Aragão, é um livro que usa como pano de fundo a época como contexto mas não como tema principal. O essencial deste livro é a Honor, é a sua luta obstinada pelos seus ideais e por aquilo em que acredita. Luta pelo país, achando que sozinha consegue mudar o rumo de uma nação inteira.
Aliado a isto tudo temos o romance. Adorei o romance entre o Richard e a Honor. É maravilhoso e está muito bem construído, encaixando na perfeição no resto de toda a história.
Está muito bem arquitetado, muito bem descrito e muito bem escrito. Parece que andamos numa máquina do tempo e paramos na corte de Henrique VIII. É um livro muito além de quotidianos de uma corte, muito além de realezas e dos seus dramas. É um livro que nos "abre os olhos e o cérebro" para muita coisa. É um livro sobre filosofia da vida, sobre religião, sobre pensamentos. Além de nos ensinar, ainda nos faz refletir.
Obrigada à Ne pelo empréstimo.
Neste livro acompanhamos Honor Larke, umas das aias (e a mais fiel) de Catarina de Aragão, numa altura em que a rainha está a ser desprezada pelo rei por este ansiar por um divórcio para poder desposar Ana Bolena, cumprindo o seu desejo de ter um filho barão (que como sabemos não foi concretizado). Mas este não é um livro sobre os Tudor ou sobre Catarina de Aragão, é um livro que usa como pano de fundo a época como contexto mas não como tema principal. O essencial deste livro é a Honor, é a sua luta obstinada pelos seus ideais e por aquilo em que acredita. Luta pelo país, achando que sozinha consegue mudar o rumo de uma nação inteira.
Aliado a isto tudo temos o romance. Adorei o romance entre o Richard e a Honor. É maravilhoso e está muito bem construído, encaixando na perfeição no resto de toda a história.
Está muito bem arquitetado, muito bem descrito e muito bem escrito. Parece que andamos numa máquina do tempo e paramos na corte de Henrique VIII. É um livro muito além de quotidianos de uma corte, muito além de realezas e dos seus dramas. É um livro que nos "abre os olhos e o cérebro" para muita coisa. É um livro sobre filosofia da vida, sobre religião, sobre pensamentos. Além de nos ensinar, ainda nos faz refletir.
Obrigada à Ne pelo empréstimo.
February 14, 2020
I feel like the title, and the book description, were very misleading. I was expecting historical fiction about a lady in waiting to Queen Catherine in the Tudor court, and a retelling of the drama that unfolded. Instead, it was all about a completely fictitious character, Honor, who tries to change the course of religion in England. In fact, all of the main characters are completely made up, and the actual Tudor court (aside from Thomas More), are used as secondary background characters with very small roles in the novel. Why call it “The Queen’s Lady” if it barely has anything to do with being a lady in waiting to the queen? It was a lengthy book, and incredibly slow at times. I was often left feeling frustrated because all of the “action” and danger was caused mainly by her foolish decision making. There were some parts that were exciting and held my interest, but twice I considered just leaving the book unfinished and moving on because the storyline was dragging and becoming repetitive. Overall, it was just a lot of drama about religion being taken to the extreme in a variety of denominations, and the main character struggling with her own religious beliefs while putting herself in ridiculous situations. I would have preferred if the book description and title said that the novel was about religious power struggles between fictitious characters with the Tudor monarchy being more of a backdrop, rather than making it seem like a novel of historical fiction about the Tudors.
March 20, 2011
A sinopse e as primeiras páginas deram-me uma ideia completamente errada do enredo do livro. Pensei que se desenrolaria, essencialmente, em volta da “grande questão” de Henrique VIII: a Rainha Catarina de Aragão, nesta versão, auxiliada pela sua aia, Honor, a tentar impedir o Rei de anular o casamento de ambos; a procurar provas e documentos que sustentassem a sua causa enquanto os homens do rei a isolavam dos seus aliados e rebatiam os seus argumentos, desesperados com a demora do processo, que se arrastava e impedia Henrique de se casar com Ana Bolena.
No entanto, isto é apenas uma pequeníssima parte do enredo. Subitamente, a história teve uma extraordinária mudança de rumo e os caminhos de Honor afastaram-se das intrigas palacianas. Esta, com a ajuda de Thornleigh, dedicou-se a ajudar hereges a sair do país, que a Igreja perseguia e matava, colocando a sua vida e a sua posição em risco.
Os movimentos e ideias protestantes têm um grande destaque ao longo do livro, o que, na minha opinião, é uma grande mais-valia para a narrativa. Apesar de algumas situações serem um pouco previsíveis, de uma maneira geral, a autora consegue manter a emoção até ao fim. Em suma, trata-se de uma mistura de amor, acção, aventura e perseguições religiosas, bastante bem conseguida.
No entanto, isto é apenas uma pequeníssima parte do enredo. Subitamente, a história teve uma extraordinária mudança de rumo e os caminhos de Honor afastaram-se das intrigas palacianas. Esta, com a ajuda de Thornleigh, dedicou-se a ajudar hereges a sair do país, que a Igreja perseguia e matava, colocando a sua vida e a sua posição em risco.
Os movimentos e ideias protestantes têm um grande destaque ao longo do livro, o que, na minha opinião, é uma grande mais-valia para a narrativa. Apesar de algumas situações serem um pouco previsíveis, de uma maneira geral, a autora consegue manter a emoção até ao fim. Em suma, trata-se de uma mistura de amor, acção, aventura e perseguições religiosas, bastante bem conseguida.
June 30, 2012
In the Queen’s Lady, Barbara Kyle weaves a fast-paced plot of intrigue, romance and suspense, set in the 16th century court of King Henry VIII.
The feisty heroine, Honor Larke, is faced with two choices: marry or serve. Not wishing to become an obedient wife, she leaves the home of her ward, Sir Thomas More, to become one of Queen Catherine of Aragon’s ladies. But such a position can prove lethal, as intrigues in the Tudor Court heighten when Anne Boleyn steals Henry’s affection and the King wants to divorce Catherine. Honor's loyalties are put to the test, her position at court questioned.
But The Queen's Lady is not only about Honor Lark; it also addresses the religious influences of this era, illustrating the manipulation of the church in the interests of the state.
The story is packed with action, plot twists and turns, perhaps a touch too many dangerous missions. Sometimes I felt I couldn’t catch my breath. In general though, I found this story highly entertaining and easy to read. It is well-written and of great escapist value. I would recommend it to readers who enjoy a good English historical romance, coupled with suspense, action and intrigue.
The feisty heroine, Honor Larke, is faced with two choices: marry or serve. Not wishing to become an obedient wife, she leaves the home of her ward, Sir Thomas More, to become one of Queen Catherine of Aragon’s ladies. But such a position can prove lethal, as intrigues in the Tudor Court heighten when Anne Boleyn steals Henry’s affection and the King wants to divorce Catherine. Honor's loyalties are put to the test, her position at court questioned.
But The Queen's Lady is not only about Honor Lark; it also addresses the religious influences of this era, illustrating the manipulation of the church in the interests of the state.
The story is packed with action, plot twists and turns, perhaps a touch too many dangerous missions. Sometimes I felt I couldn’t catch my breath. In general though, I found this story highly entertaining and easy to read. It is well-written and of great escapist value. I would recommend it to readers who enjoy a good English historical romance, coupled with suspense, action and intrigue.
January 10, 2015
One of the best books I have read lately! I totally enjoyed this journey through Tudor period England and Europe. The main character Honor Larke, is reminiscent somehow of the famous Amber in Forever Amber, however she has more backbone and more principle, and you don't feel the need to slap her as much as Amber. But the story arch has a similar feel, with the main character slip for one adventure to another,through which e reader encounters many aspects of life in the period and many of the central characters make their appearance. The romantic interest is Richard Thornleigh, a rake with a past, and troubles in his life, which is also reminiscent of a classic novel, which I won't mention, as it might spoil things. He also reminds me at times of Han Solo.....but I do live in a house of Star Wars obsessed boys!
I look forward to the next instalment of the series and will add Barbara Kyle to my list of must read authors!
I look forward to the next instalment of the series and will add Barbara Kyle to my list of must read authors!
July 5, 2017
Too many contrived circumstances and anachronisms. A very young Honor just happens to witness May Day Riots and comes across Thomas More... she just happens to leave a hunting party and comes across her childhood friend being burned at the stake... she just happens to be going to the barge and hears bargemen talking about a planned dragnet for heretics... she just happens to get stuck sorting books for Catherine of Aragon when she wants to get out and warn the heretics.
And the anachronisms: Honor just goes off on her own as a grown noble woman. No, wouldn't happen. Catherine of Aragon gets a shipment of books that Honor has to help sort. No, there was no Amazon back then. By the time Catherine of Aragon calls Honor 'sweetheart' a second time I couldn't take anymore.
There was a lot of potential and this book would benefit from some editing and a re-write. I just can't suffer through the whole thing to see if the writing came together more in the later books in this series.
And the anachronisms: Honor just goes off on her own as a grown noble woman. No, wouldn't happen. Catherine of Aragon gets a shipment of books that Honor has to help sort. No, there was no Amazon back then. By the time Catherine of Aragon calls Honor 'sweetheart' a second time I couldn't take anymore.
There was a lot of potential and this book would benefit from some editing and a re-write. I just can't suffer through the whole thing to see if the writing came together more in the later books in this series.
November 7, 2009
This was a good read - especially for those of us who already have a fascination with Tudor-era history. I would hesitate to call it a romance, though, as so much of the story did not revolve around the romantic relationship. That said, their relationship was always in the background, so I suppose I could understand the categorization.
The title itself is a bit misleading, as the main character is only directly involved with Catherine of Aragon for perhaps the first fourth of the book. After that, intrigue develops that involves a lot of historical characters, and some good fictional ones as well.
I particularly appreciated the author's characterization of Sir Thomas More, a character who shows up a quite a lot in the story.
I would recommend this for any reader interested in the religious upheaval wrought by Henry the VIII. For others, this might lose interest.
The title itself is a bit misleading, as the main character is only directly involved with Catherine of Aragon for perhaps the first fourth of the book. After that, intrigue develops that involves a lot of historical characters, and some good fictional ones as well.
I particularly appreciated the author's characterization of Sir Thomas More, a character who shows up a quite a lot in the story.
I would recommend this for any reader interested in the religious upheaval wrought by Henry the VIII. For others, this might lose interest.
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