A King Under Siege

The Plantagenet Legacy #1

by Mercedes Rochelle

2019 B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree.Richard II found himself under siege not once, but twice in his minority. Crowned king at age ten, he was only fourteen when the Peasants' Revolt terrorized London. But he proved himself every bit the Plantagenet successor, facing Wat Tyler and the rebels when all seemed lost. Alas, his triumph was short-lived, and for the next ten years he struggled to assert himself against his uncles and increasingly hostile nobles. Just like in the days of his great-grandfather Edward II, vengeful magnates strove to separate him from his friends and advisors, and even threatened to depose him if he refused to do their bidding. The Lords Appellant, as they came to be known, purged the royal household with the help of the Merciless Parliament. They murdered his closest allies, leaving the King alone and defenseless. He would never forget his humiliation at the hands of his subjects. Richard's inability to protect his adherents would haunt him for the rest of his life, and he vowed that next time, retribution would be his.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Historical, Fiction, British Literature, Ebooks, Medieval, 14th Century

313 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 26, 2018

About the author

Born and raised in St. Louis MO, Mercedes Rochelle graduated with a degree in English literature from University of Missouri. Mercedes learned about living history as a re-enactor and has been enamored with historical fiction ever since. A move to New York to do research and two careers ensued, but writing fiction remains her primary vocation. She lives in Sergeantsville, NJ with her husband in a log home they had built themselves.

Reviews

[Jypsy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of this book courtesy of HFVBT and the author and was under no obligation to post a review.

A King Under Siege
Book One Of The Plantagenet Legacy
By: Mercedes Rochelle


*REVIEW* ☆☆☆☆
A King Under Siege is a book I recommend if, like me, your knowledge of 14th century England is a bit lacking. This is the story of King Richard II, second son of The Black Prince of Wales, who, crowned at age ten, never stood a chance to gain power against all of the grasping devious advisors surrounding him. Beginning in 1381 with The Peasant' s Revolt, we see Richard's attempts to rule fail time after time, and young Richard feels despairing and useless. He is a king in name only. Richard is in his minority, and as such, he doesn't control much. Matters of state are decided upon by others, advisors, and these men seek to undermine Richard at every opportunity, which they do quite successfully for a while. The time comes, however, when Richard meets the age of majority, and the tables are turned(this is more about the next book). The story is well researched and very succinct. I found it easy to understand and compelling. Historical fiction can be dry, but this book never felt that way. It read like a fictional narrative, when, in fact, it is a seamless account of fact and fiction that creates a clear and engaging portrait of a young King Richard II. I learned a great deal from this informative story, and I think historical fiction enthusiasts will enjoy this book.

[Sherry Sharpnack · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF’d at 19%. Was it historical fiction or a stab at writing history? The alternating voice, between first person, third person, and omniscient in both voices was confusing.
It was on Kindle Unlimited, so I can try again some time.

[Nursebookie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mercedes Rochelle gave history buffs and historical fiction lovers an amazing gift in this book!! Rochelle's writing was clear, well researched, and fun to follow. I was not that familiar with Richard II except that he was crowned King at a very young age, and had quite a reign full of revolts and hostility with his own family. To be faced with such adversity as the peasants' revolt at 14 years' old is quite a feat just following the Black Death and plague with a rebellion against the landowners. I enjoyed learning about the details of the negotiations and possibilities of what happened during the time. Medieval history is quite fascinating that is full of amazing characters each deserving a story of their own. Overall, I really enjoyed this page turner of a read full of intrigue and drama. I look forward to Book two to follow along Richard as he comes of age and potential retribution. I highly recommend this fascinating read.

[Mary Yarde · Rating 5 out of 5]

“With spades and hoes and ploughs, stand up now.
Your houses they pull down, to fright poor men in town,
The gentry must come down and the poor shall wear the crown…”

It was the age-old question, who should sit on the throne of France? Everyone in England knew that the French crown belonged to the English King — Richard II. Unfortunately, the House of Valois did not agree with the English consensus.

The French were a formidable foe. If the House of Plantagenet wanted to win this war, then they desperately needed to find more money. Parliament was called, and on the request of John of Gaunt, son of Edward III and uncle to the young King Richard II, a tax was agreed upon. Regrettably, this Poll tax was a very regressive tax. An unfair burden that the poor simply could not pay. It was really no surprise when the peasants revolted in 1381.

Richard II was only ten years old when he succeeded to the throne. He was too young to rule on his own. But instead of a regent, it was decided that the government should be placed in the hands of a series of councils, but even then, there were those who thought Gaunt had too much power. But it wasn’t Gaunt who rode out to meet with Wat Tyler (the leader of the rebels) at Smithfield. It was the fourteen-year-old King.

A child Richard may still be, but he was the King of England, and he believed in the royal prerogative. He had also had enough of being told what to do by men he no longer respected. Richard was old enough to know his own mind and to choose his own advisors. However, not everyone was happy with the way the monarchy was heading, and the discontent of those who had been influential rumbled around Richard’s realm like a threatening biblical storm from days gone by. It was only a matter of time before men such as Gloucester and Warwick had their retribution…

From small beginnings to disastrous ends, A King Under Siege: Book One of The Plantagenet Legacy by Mercedes Rochelle is the compelling account of the Peasant Revolt of 1381 and the following turbulent years of Richard II’s early reign.

What an utterly enthralling story A King Under Siege: Book One of The Plantagenet Legacy is. This is the story of a very tempestuous time in English history. Rochelle paints a vivid picture, not only of the peasantry and the hardship they faced but also the corruption and the dangers of court life in the reign of Richard II. These were treacherous times, and Rochelle has demonstrated this with her bold and an exceptionally riveting narrative.

The book is split into three parts, which gave the book a firm grounding of time and place. Part 1 explores the first major challenge in Richard II reign, which was the Peasant Revolt. Rochelle gives a scrupulously balanced account about the revolt. The story explores both sides of the argument, which I thought gave this book a wonderful depth and scope. Part 2 is aptly named “Resistance,” and this section was very compelling as Richard tried to take control of his throne. Part 3, was perhaps the most moving and upsetting as those who thought themselves slighted took revenge upon the King. Rochelle has this tremendous eye for writing very emotional scenes that certainly made me shed a few tears. I thought it was masterfully written.

As I have already touched upon, I thought the portrayal of Richard II was a historical triumph. Richard grows from this unsure youth to a man who is facing a war from those who should be on his side. Forget the war with France, it is the war within parliament that Richard has to try to win.

This story is rich in historical detail. It has so obviously been meticulously researched. I cannot but commend Rochelle for this exceptional work of scholarship.

A King Under Siege: Book One of The Plantagenet Legacy is one of those books that once started is impossible to put down. This book is filled with non-stop action. There are enough plots and conspiracies to satisfy any lover of historical fiction. This is storytelling at its very best.

I Highly Recommend.

Review by Mary Anne Yarde.
The Coffee Pot Book Club.

[gwendalyn _books_ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

A King Under Siege: Book One of The Plantagenet Legacy by Mercedes Rochelle is a stunning extensive researched account of the Peasant Revolt of 1381 and the following years under the Richard II early kingship.
Crowned King, Richard II was only ten years old when he succeeded to the throne, Struggling under the enormous burden of the weight placed on his shoulders.

England’s common people were suffering under the burden of the The Hundred Years' War. Which was a series of conflicts from 1337 to 1453, waged between the House of Plantagenets, who ruled England, and the House of Valois, who were the rulers of France. It was the most grueling conflits of the Middle Ages. With each side drawing their own allies into the war, fighting for the throne of the largest kingdom spanning five generations.

Mercedes Rochelle, gives the reader an incredible perspective of Richard II's reign, beginning with the pivotal event of the Peasants' Revolt in 1381. Rochelle, delivers a vivid, richly detailed, well-crafted and wonderfully written story here with absolutely fascinating, complex, and well-portrayed characters.
Giving the reader an in-depth look at the drama and corruption surrounding the court life of the young King. Also the reader is given an unbiased accounts of the Peasants Revolt, also called Wat Tyler's Rebellion, depicting both sides of the arguments. Bringing to Life hardship of the peasants as they struggled with being overly taxed in the feudal system.

With Edward Ill death and Richard on the thrown, the powerful barons were tired of paying for Hundred Years War. In 1377, John of Gaunt imposed a new tax, the Poll (head) Tax. This was supposed to be a one time tax, it became so successful that it was repeated three more times. Unlike the normal taxes of that day this tax was a head tax.

This is an exceptionally written novel, is an intricately plotted emotional account of Richard ll as he continuous attempts to prove himself in years following the first revolt. This profound, faced paced, bold narration gives light to the circumstances that the king faces within the circle surrounding the treacherous, vicious noblemen.

With precision writing that flows seamlessly, along with a rich narrative voice, Mercedes Rochelle, A King Under Siege: Book One of The Plantagenet Legacy is a powerful thought provoking historical fiction that will stay with you long after you close the book.

[Whispering Bookworm]

Why is this era so unrepresented in historical fiction? I have never come across a novel that focuses on the life of Richard II before, but it has always been an era that intrigued me. So when I was offered the chance to read A King Under Siege (The Plantagenet Legacy, Book 1) by Mercedes Rochelle I jumped at the chance.

This novel opens with a young, very unsure King Richard, who tries to address a crowd that has gathered at his manor in Rotherhithe. Unsure what to do, Richard seeks the advice of his wise councillors. Unhappy with their advice, Richard speaks to the increasingly angry mob, but his words do nothing to calm them, and as his barge turns away, heading back towards the Tower, he fears that this angry mob is only the beginning.

I thought this story was amazing. I can safely say, and I do not say this lightly, that it was one of the most enjoyable books that I have read in recent years. Not only was the historical backdrop wonderfully realistic in its depiction, but the characters themselves jumped off the page.

I loved the author’s take on young Richard. He knows that he is king in all but name because of his age, and although he has to do as he is told, he realises that the men who so-called advise him have made mistake after mistake. His growing resentment at not being allowed to rule as he wishes, and his growing wisdom that comes from being forced to listen is perhaps as much as his undoing as it is his making. The weight that Richard holds on his very young shoulders has been demonstrated most admirably throughout this novel. Richard was a character that I enjoyed reading about.

If you are bored of the Tudor era, which in my option has been done to death recently, then why not give this novel a try. This novel will educate and entertain at the same time. A really great read.

*I received a copy of this novel from The Coffee Pot Book Club for review consideration.

[Renee Marski]

Interesting part of history

I picked this up not really knowing what i would be reading and found myself lost in the world of 14th century england under the rule of a young richard ii. Young and brash, we follow richard as he tries to figure out how to rule as king in his own right.

Great read! Really enjoyed it.

[Jenny Q]

Richard II and His Queens, Guest Post by Mercedes Rochelle @ Let Them Read Books

[Helen Hollick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has received a Discovering Diamonds Review:
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs

"I am thoroughly looking forward to the next instalment"

[Peter B · Rating 5 out of 5]

The reason I love historical novels in the first place is because, in the hands of a skillful writer, they add insights about historical events that no other form can, being allowed the freedom that fiction brings to illuminating the psychological, social and filial stresses that inform a given historical moment.

Historical biography can extend what hard-core history provides for us, but the power of historical fiction takes us even further. This was truly brought home to me as I read Mercedes Rochelle’s excellent A King Under Seige. I had truly enjoyed Rochelle’s earlier books dealing with Earl Godwin and his offspring, tracing the history, both micro and macro, of that intriguing family.

The same meticulous research, understanding of human motivation and observation of family dynamics are equally at play in this exploration (the first in a series on the Plantagenet legacy) of the early life and times of Richard II. The Peasants Revolt, the growing dissatisfaction of the barons and the family rifts which would so change the monarchy are all covered in detail, but with a nuanced empathy for Richard. We go from the streets of London to the secret meetings of Richard’s court to the debates in Parliament with equal believability.

By sheer serendipity, while reading this novel I was also reading Ian Mortimer’s excellent historical biography of Henry IV, The Self-Made King, the scope of which covers much of the same time period and characters as Rochelle’s novel. Both writers are knowledgeable researchers with a keen eye to personality and inter-personal dynamics and both, in their respective genres, provide engagingly written books which seek to get to the why and why nots of history through the dissection and recreation of the protagonist’s inner life.

To say the two books complemented each other would be understatement. What I found most intriguing was the way in which the form of the novel added just that little bit more freedom to extrapolate, to embellish and to simply make good educated guesses at those parts of Richard and Henry’s lives that pure history has no record of for us to judge.

Mercedes Rochelle’s ability to gain insight into her character’s thoughts and feelings and her attention to the complex and at times illogical family relationships creates a rich story, which, even if it turns out to not be true, provides a logical basis to critique the motivations and pressures which drive Richard and his court. All this is done without giving up veracity of historical detail in clothing, manners, setting or events. Mortimer may put flesh on the bones of humanity through his historical biography, but Rochelle clothes that humanity and presents it as living, breathing people with flaws, foibles and contradictions.

As always, my biggest complaint against this novel is that it ends, too soon and one is forced to wait for the next book in the series. If A King Under Seige is any indication, the next book will be again be an exploration of the power of historical fiction.

[Patty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Richard II is one of those kings that I honestly don’t know a lot about. In all of my historical fiction reading I have only had the opportunity to read one other book about him. As is noted in the author’s note at the end of the book, much of how Richard II is perceived by history is thanks to Shakespeare who doesn’t exactly have a strong track record of representing his subjects accurately. As it is always said, history is written by the victors and they often distort the records of those they have defeated.

I don’t know if this is going to be two books or three but this first book is really good read. Anyone who loves history will enjoy this trip back in time to the court of a man far too young to to be king surrounded by nobles who were more concerned with going to war and their own interests rather than the governing of the kingdom. Richard had no strong well of support so he leans on his friends. These friends are hated by the lords of the land for they think they are giving him bad advice. Richard feels his uncles and the other Lords are trying to control him.

It’s a well researched and fascinating look at this enigmatic king. Ms. Rochelle brings Richard to life as a young man who was taught that he was King and that he was in charge. When he wanted to pursue peace with France instead of continuing wars there was uproar. Despite the fact that the taxes that were necessary to pay for the wars caused an uprising that almost cost Richard his reign. Soldiers want to fight and that is that.

It’s the kind of a book that I found myself lost in. Despite knowing what would be I still read each page with hope that history had somehow changed. That will have to wait for the next volume of the book as this one ended with Richard asserting his authority. It was a powerful ending and a perfect place to begin the next chapter.

4.5

[The Shield Maiden · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very enjoyable novel. The balance between the history and the story is just right and there is a strong sense of realism in this book that makes it not only unputdownable but unforgettable as well.

I thought the writing style really helped to make this book a page-turning read, and reading about how Richard was coerced and controlled left me with a better understanding of how he became, not only the king he was, but the man he was as well. Richard’s story, which history is quick to tell, is not a happy one. But this novel demonstrates how Richard never really stood a chance. He was far too young when his father died, and this led to a regency that was not only badly managed but ruined by greed. I could not help but feel sorry for Richard, and I certainly learnt to hate some of the characters who were so determined to make sure that Richard remained nothing more than a puppet king.

This may well be the first book I have read by Mercedes Rochelle, but it certainly will not be my last. This novel is certainly worth checking out.

*I received a copy of this book from The Coffee Pot Book Club for review consideration.

[Merissa (Archaeolibrarian) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A KING UNDER SIEGE is the first book in The Plantagenet Legacy and details Richard II and the circumstances around the beginning of his reign. Crowned at ten, he was reliant upon his advisors for a time, although the frustration he felt was clear when their advice was less than helpful. We also get to meet Anne of Bohemia, his first wife and great love. Together with those of Richard's inner court, we see how it could have been (and probably was) for people at that time.

Told as an amalgamation of fact and fiction, you get the story and history with comments and questions raised by an observer. It is clear that a lot of research has gone into this book.

Richard was the last of Plantagenet kings in the direct line and you see his relationship with Henry Bolingbroke -- the most direct descendant in the male line, as opposed to the then-heir presumptive -- as a fraught affair, with Henry not involving himself too deeply in the politics of the time, but having great impact upon Richard when he did.

This part of the story takes us through to 1388, ending with a hint of Richard regaining control in 1389.

A story that will definitely intrigue and interest lovers of both the Plantagenet era and the Tudor, as this shows the build-up to future events. Definitely recommended by me.

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!

[Divya Mahajan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A king Under Siege by Mercedes Rochelle is a story that brings the little known aspects about not much known but much debated and controversial King Richard II. The story is interesting as it also touches not only the intrigue and politics of the time but also personal aspects of his life. His rule was affected by many adversities like Peasants revolt, betrayal of his ministers and close advisors and also plague. His failures, his miscalculations and his inability to control his supposed advisors and ministers make an interesting read. This plot never loses itself as some historical novels and thus avoids becoming too detailed to be boring.
A must read for history buffs and also who want a surprisingly thrilling read.
Thanks @booktasters for this book

[Paul Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

A King Under Siege - A Coffee Pot Book Club Blog Tour
BLURB
2019 B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree.
Richard II found himself under siege not once, but twice in his minority. Crowned king at age ten, he was only fourteen when the Peasants' Revolt terrorized London. But he proved himself every bit the Plantagenet successor, facing Wat Tyler and the rebels when all seemed lost. Alas, his triumph was short-lived, and for the next ten years he struggled to assert himself against his uncles and increasingly hostile nobles. Just like in the days of his great-grandfather Edward II, vengeful magnates strove to separate him from his friends and advisors, and even threatened to depose him if he refused to do their bidding. The Lords Appellant, as they came to be known, purged the royal household with the help of the Merciless Parliament. They murdered his closest allies, leaving the King alone and defenseless. He would never forget his humiliation at the hands of his subjects. Richard's inability to protect his adherents would haunt him for the rest of his life, and he vowed that next time, retribution would be his
REVIEW
This, my peeps and fellow readers is a marvelous look at a young man with a lot to prove and not a lot of time to do it. Beset on all sides with problems, a rebellion of peasants, a boatload of advisors some who would love to see him fail, a possibly treasonous uncle, and worst of all, his impetuosity and temper. The author has set us a tale that makes one wonder (well me anyway) why did anyone want to be King? Richard II certainly finds it to be not all it purports to be. Under siege, every decision scrutinized or ignored, no power base to speak of. It is an intense picture that the author draws with Richard bearing the brunt of failures, and watching his grip on the throne slipping away. I really enjoyed this view of a period I'm not familiar with, and am looking forward to the next chapter. 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Frank Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mercedes Rochelle in A KING UNDER SIEGE, the first of THE PLANTAGENET LEGACY series, explores English history and the reign of Richard II. Many, if not most, of the conflicts occur not in the open fields of battle or the expanses of country but within Richard himself and in the confined spaces of the court and halls of government.

The story starts with the so-called Peasant’s Revolt in 1381. It began in the hopes of correcting genuine inequities in the society at the time. It ended in mob rule. The tragic events have action and drama that work on multiple levels. At the time, however, Richard is little more than a boy trying to deal with the chaos and politics going on around him. He wants to do what is best for his people but feels imprisoned by his youth and advisors. Amidst the turmoil, the most important conflict is in Richard’s heart and mind.

Richard must learn how to be king even before he knows what kind of man he wants to be. Or can be. He strives for heroism but does not understand how to achieve that goal as he is buffeted by the forces around him.

The title of the book is apt because young Richard is a king under siege on many levels. The first and most obvious, of course, is the Peasant’s Revolt early in his reign, which is when he first tries to find his own moral compass. He wants to make his own decisions, take actions he believes to be right, which are objected to by his advisors. Opposition is so strong that Richard abandons promises made to his subjects in favor of the status quo expected of their masters.

Rochelle carries us along with Richard in this confusing journey. In the beginning, we can identify with the class struggles of the peasants. In the end we are more on the side of egocentric and self-serving royalty as Richard loses power to his enemies and to Parliament.

Historically, a siege will result in either success, in which case those being attacked are destroyed, or in defeat, in which case the attackers give up and go home.

Which is it for Richard?

On the one hand, in the end it seems as if Richard finally becomes the leader he wishes to be:

"You know very well that for the last twelve years I have been ruled by others,” he announced. “I have been allowed no part in the decisions…. I could do nothing without permission from my guardians…. Starting right now…I will transact my own business and make my own decisions."

Or is he only fooling himself? Has he really learned any real lessons in leadership? Just a few minutes later, Richard attempts to avoid any responsibility by blaming others:

“Richard had just released himself from all responsibility for past shortcomings in the government. He wasn't accountable for deficiencies during his minority. They were.”

If this story has a moral, it might be to show that results of such unrelenting, conflicting pressures on a young man during his formative stages. It could help a resilient person become stronger and wiser, to master, if not the world, then at least himself. For others, however, it could leave leave them emotionally crippled to fall prey to the forces around him. One of the fascinating questions in this story is how will the sieges against Richard shape his fate?

This is the first of the series. No doubt Rochelle will explore the answers in future volumes.

[Yvonne · Rating 3 out of 5]

A King Under Siege is an interesting insight into the early years of Richard II's reign, beginning with the pivotal event of the Peasants' Revolt in 1381. Richard II was considered a weak king, but showed great courage when at the age of fourteen confronted Wat Tyler and his supporters in an attempt to defuse the situation.

Mercedes Rochelle writes of a young man, fearful, and also frustrated that the men who governed in his stead had allowed matters to escalate into violent confrontation. Richard II's intervention by way of listening to the people's grievances and issuing pardons did much for his self-respect, but ultimately resulted in more unrest as he was forced to renege on his promises.

Apart from the Peasants' Revolt, the reign of Richard II is an era in history that I knew little about or showed much interest in. However, after reading A King Under Siege I did feel some sympathy for Richard II and his plight. He found it difficult to live up to the reputations of his grandfather, Edward III, and of his father, the Black Prince. Thwarted by his uncles and other advisors, who cited his youth as an excuse to control him and rule the country, it is no wonder that he rebelled, often giving glimpses of the ruler he could have been if given more encouragement and guidance. Sadly, when he tried to exert some authority by establishing a loyal inner circle, this further alienated him from his uncles and sealed the fates of those that he relied on and trusted.

Another contentious issue was Richard II's marriage to Anne of Bohemia. Many of his opponents were against the marriage as the political gain was limited and Anne had no dowry, but she supported Richard and often gave good advice.

While this novel is about the politics of the time, I did enjoy mention of the fashion statements that Anne of Bohemia’s entourage brought to England. The elaborate horned headdresses worn by the ladies and the shoes with pointed tips that extended several inches from the toes would have looked spectacular if not a little awkward for the wearer.

A King Under Siege is informative as well as entertaining. It is a coming of age story filled with historical details, plots and counter plots that make it a compelling read. The story ends when Richard II gains his majority and claims the throne in his own right. He takes no responsibility for events that took place during his minority, laying the blame on his guardians. A very satisfactory ending that prepares us for the next phase of Richard II's reign.

[Annette · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Thoughts:
When the book begins Richard II is a teenage boy. He was not yet the age when he was able to reign without the regency council. He'd come to the throne at age 10. In A King Under Siege, I was shown Richard's feelings of inadequacy because of his age. He has a loneliness and a yearning for someone to understand and be loyal to him. His reign showed me the difficulties of trying to please his subjects, both the common and wealthy classes. Richard's early success during the Peasant's Revolt was short lived, he later suffered a deep humiliation, and he wanted to show himself a strong and capable leader. I was shown his role as king but also Richard's character. The person he was. He was a complex character.
A King Under Siege is a compelling read because of Richard II's climactic early years of reign.
The story is strong in dialogue-conversations between the various nobility. For example: Robert de Vere, Michael de la Pole, Thomas Mowbray, Henry of Bolingbroke, and John of Gaunt. Each of these men have strong stories that reflect their own aggressive ambitions.
At times while reading A King Under Siege, I imagined a game of chess. It's a game of strategy. The players in this true historical period were each a strategist. They looked for weakness and opportunities to gain power over the opponent.
I saw Richard's feelings from the first about his cousin, Henry of Bolingbroke. These glimpses will lead to a change in monarchy later. I imagined a curtain drawn back to reveal just a brief glimpse of the future. Richard does have something to be envious about, and this makes me anxious to read book two!
Source: I received a complimentary paperback copy from the author, but was not required to write a positive review.

[Brook Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A REAL GAME OF THRONES

With a temperamental king too young and immature to lead, and contentious uncles who were sullen and consumed by their own hunger for power, the original "Game of Thrones" plot is set.

While reading this book, I was floored by Rochelle's vast knowledge and understanding of Medieval history--especially that of such a shadowed reign as Richard II's. Though it required a lot of structural set-up, Rochelle takes full charge of the antagonist's plan and thoroughly explains their political motives for the final chapters' Appellant Trials. There was interesting conjecture throughout this book on whether the climate of serfdom was changing or were England's contentious uprisings among both rich and poor were simply Richard II's fault. For lovers of history, Rochelle has presented excellent food for thought.

That being said, this is a sumptuous read for those intrigued by the REAL games of thrones in Europe's past. This is not necessarily a fast-paced book, but one that draws a reader in by the subject's political unrest and period culture. Again, Rochelle paints the Middle Ages in brilliant color with all of its brutality, greed, and chivalry. And it's ironic that she chose the gutsy but peace-loving and often immature character of Richard II on which to world-build.

Lastly, I must mention my favorite character, Robert de Vere, Richard's controversial and much -disliked friend. Rochelle whets the reader's appetite with this man, who in my opinion, deserves a tome of his own.

This was a deep, thought-provoking, and detailed read. Pick it up and prepare thyself to FEAST!

[Rebecca Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Richard II was quite a figure! Crowned at the age of 10, he found himself facing down his own countrymen at a young age. During the time of his minority, the country was restless. He faced down Wat Tyler and his band of rebels. But this would not be the only time that he found himself besieged - and all before he was able to govern on his own.

Richard II is a figure that most tend to look over. Starting his reign at a young age, many tend to want to overlook what he was able to accomplish, flying in the face of what his advisors wanted to do. He wanted a country that was peaceful and prosperous. Those who were in power, however, wanted more. They sought to remove the king from his friends and allies, murdering those who got in their way.

This book was fabulous! I was hooked from the start, and could not put it down! Mercedes Rochelle has done it again with a book that not only brings history to life but breathes a fresh perspective into a figure that has fallen largely from the pages of our history books. Grab this book now, you will not be sorry!

[V.E.H. Masters · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a masterly study of Richard II early years which has clearly been thoroughly researched. Richard has a long minority controlled by his power-broking uncles and courtiers, who leave him, at a very young age, dealing with the Peasant’s Revolt unsupported. The endless challenges of bickering and backstabbing relatives, nobles and parliament, and the relentless intrigue and treachery, are all well explored. And this with a backdrop of constant money troubles and a general sense that kings and nobility must love wars and hate peace – else they are not true men.

There are some lovely light touches too which show the depth of research – especially the fashion in pointy toed shoes brought with the young Queen’s coterie from Bohemia. Wonderful descriptions too, particularly enjoyed the one of London Bridge.

Overall one cannot help but empathise with Richard as he moves from idealistic youth, to recoginising his temper does him no good, to pragmatic manoeuvering as he reaches his majority. Absorbing and well-researched historical fiction

[Brooke · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded up to 4
It reads a bit dry. I don't know if that's the writing, the audiobook narrator, or a combo of both.

But, the style is narrative voice, which I enjoy when it comes to history, and it closely follows the source material. But one should already know the plot points bc it won't hold your hand. I wish each chapter had a year as referenced point, to know where we were in the timeline.

This is definitely Richard biased, which tbh, was interesting to read bc most sources have him as a tyrant.

I tend to fall somewhere between the extremes. He wasn't a naive fool, nor was he the worst king ever. He was a spare, thrust into kingship at 10, with dying, old men as predecessors, and an advisory council with several agendas. All royals have a bit of inherent narcissism, being told you're "ordained by God." You get the king you get, and eventually his head will get too big for the crown.

[Beatrice Rivers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I saw a post on one of my favourite history blogs written by Mercedes Rochelle, and in this post, she talked about her upcoming book, which certainly piqued my interest. I have had A King Under Seige on my to-read list since it came out, so when I found out it was on NetGalley, I just had to read it. And WOW what a fabulous story. I started reading it last night, and I was so engrossed that I stayed up half the night to finish it! This is one of those books that you can not put down, well, I couldn't anyway! I thought Mercedes portrayal of Richard II was soooo good and completely believable. I loved this book so much. I may just have to go back and reread it!

I Highly Recommend it.

I received a copy of this book via NetGalley for review consideration.

[Linda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well written beginning to the story of Richard II. It seems to take a slightly different tone that other stories I have seen about Richard and I like that fact as Richard II is one of the British Kings, like Richard III and Edward II that have been much maligned by history.

Although the writing was good this one did not draw me into it as much as I would have liked. It has peaked my interest though and I intend to read the next installment.

[Gabrielle Araújo · Rating 4 out of 5]

That book was a journey into the history of King Richard II. I didn't expect a book with so many facts to be so enjoyable to read and at the same time so thrilling! The author carries the story with mastery; during the reading, it seemed that someone was narrating and reading it just flowed fast. The whole political scheme of King Richard II's court awaits you in this book and you will be surprised by this plot.

[Christine Cazeneuve · Rating 3 out of 5]

Liked it

I really wanted to love this book because reading anything about the Plantagenets is my favorite subject. However, I found myself skimming through much of it. There are some very good parts but just not enough dialogue for me. I will read the second book in the series now.

[ChillwithabookAWARD With · Rating 5 out of 5]

A King Under Siege has received a Chill with a Book Readers' Award.
www.chillwithabook.com

Well researched and the ending was left open so I imagine there will be a follow up to come.
Pauline Barclay - Founder of Chill with a Book Awards.

[gj indieBRAG · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are proud to announce that A KING UNDER SIEGE: Book One of the Plantagenet Legacy is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells readers that this book is well worth their time and money!

[Rosie Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read full of action you don’t have the time to get bored

[Jimmie Ramos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it, read both books but want to know if there’s a third written or coming soon. Anyone know?