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Frances Gorges Trilogy #2
The Devil's Slave
In this powerful follow-up to The King's Witch, the Gorges family remains under threat from King James and his circle. Any hint of association with the members of the Gunpowder Plot will lead to mortal danger, but old loyalties - and loves - will not always be denied.
Praise for The King's Witch
'The adventures of her courageous heroine put flesh on the bones of a fascinating historical framework' Sunday Mirror
'Tracy Borman's debut historical novel has it all: conspiracy, betrayal, dark intrigues, bloody deeds, a poignant love story - and the most famous plot in English history' Alison Weir, author of the Six Tudor Queens series
'An accomplished novel with a vivid historical setting . . . the scenes in which Frances defends herself accusations of witchcraft are particularly strong' The Times
400 pages, Hardcover
First published June 13, 2019
210 people are currently reading
1953 people want to read
About the author
Tracy Borman
27 books875 followersTracy Borman, PhD, FRHistS, FSA is a historian and author from Scothern, United Kingdom. She is most widely known as the author of Elizabeth's Women.
Borman was born and brought up in the village of Scothern, England near Lincoln. She was educated at Scothern Primary School (now Ellison Boulters School), William Farr School, Welton, and Yarborough School, Lincoln. She taught history at the University of Hull, where she was awarded a Ph.D in 1997. Elizabeth's Women was serialized and became a BBC Radio 4 Book of the Week in September 2009. Tracy Borman appeared on BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour, also in September 2009
Borman was born and brought up in the village of Scothern, England near Lincoln. She was educated at Scothern Primary School (now Ellison Boulters School), William Farr School, Welton, and Yarborough School, Lincoln. She taught history at the University of Hull, where she was awarded a Ph.D in 1997. Elizabeth's Women was serialized and became a BBC Radio 4 Book of the Week in September 2009. Tracy Borman appeared on BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour, also in September 2009
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
September 1, 2019
Having read Book 1, I was happy to have been provided with arc of Book 2 of this interesting HF by Ms Borman. Frances Gorges returns to the court of James I and again is involved in the political intrigues and religious dilemmas. Frances does not seem to have changed much, and at some moments she acts naively and irresponsibly, and this is my biggest complaint. However, I liked the presentation of the Jacobean court. Ms Borman expertly delivers historical background, including all main actors, to a reader who chooses fiction over non-fiction and would like to learn more about the period.
*Many thanks to Tracy Borman, Grove Atlantic and NetGalley for ARC in exchange for my honest review.*
*Many thanks to Tracy Borman, Grove Atlantic and NetGalley for ARC in exchange for my honest review.*
September 21, 2022
The second book in this series is not quite as enjoyable to me because most all the action is sedate compared to Book #1 which dealt with the Gunpowder Plot. Not that it needs to be a rockem' sockem' book, but much of this book is all about the behind the scenes intrigue with our heroine Frances Gorges a reluctant participant in the attempt to remove James 1 from the throne of England and replace him with a Catholic King. It is interesting to read of the behind the scenes battle over religion in England during the early 17th Century but sometimes it gets a bit much, as Frances gets pulled into one plot after another, all of which are far-fetched, but many of which are historically accurate. Borman is a top-flight historian and makes us realize that all battles are not necessarily on a battlefield between warriors, but rather can be fought by women in the background who see and feel things differently than the men. Frances is one of the attendants of Princess Elizabeth and is well placed for palace intrigue. Still a well done work, and there are sufficient personal and crown-related plot twists to keep you turning page after page. The series ends with the next book and I am looking forward to reading that book also!
August 30, 2021
This second book in the Frances Gorges trilogy commences in 1606, some six months after the Gunpowder Plot (aka Powder Treason) and the central theme of the first, The King's Witch. Our main character is at the familial home, Longford, away from Court and her beloved mistress, Princess Elizabeth, second child and eldest daughter of King James I.
This separation is necessary as since the death of her love Tom Wintour, Frances now knows she is pregnant carrying their child. A dangerous and destructive force should it become known to her enemies, especially those holding powerful and influential positions at court; many who continue to suspect her of witchcraft and siding with the Catholic cause.
These early and middle years of James's reign are alive with events, well-known characters and political manoeuvrings. The alliances, threats and power struggles abound with Frances swept along by forces with whom she sides but are no less dangerous to her and all she holds dear. She will risk her life and the lives of those close to her.
Tracy Borman has with The Devil's Slave, created another hugely enjoyable story that places Frances and other lesser known characters into the midst of events in Stuart England. As convincing as the last book, this second volume pays great attention to historical detail but subtlety grafts nuanced fiction so providing for a believable cast and story that importantly does not alter real events but creates interest and possibility that fills and adds to real documented history.
Recommended.
This separation is necessary as since the death of her love Tom Wintour, Frances now knows she is pregnant carrying their child. A dangerous and destructive force should it become known to her enemies, especially those holding powerful and influential positions at court; many who continue to suspect her of witchcraft and siding with the Catholic cause.
These early and middle years of James's reign are alive with events, well-known characters and political manoeuvrings. The alliances, threats and power struggles abound with Frances swept along by forces with whom she sides but are no less dangerous to her and all she holds dear. She will risk her life and the lives of those close to her.
Tracy Borman has with The Devil's Slave, created another hugely enjoyable story that places Frances and other lesser known characters into the midst of events in Stuart England. As convincing as the last book, this second volume pays great attention to historical detail but subtlety grafts nuanced fiction so providing for a believable cast and story that importantly does not alter real events but creates interest and possibility that fills and adds to real documented history.
Recommended.
June 21, 2019
England, early 1600's: After the discovery of the Gunpowder Plot, assassination attempt against King James I, resulting in some executions including France’s love one –Tom Wintour. Frances is left with a growing belly. She accepts Sir Thomas proposal and marries him.
There are still some Catholics, who plot against the King and who want to install his daughter Elizabeth Stuart as the Catholic head of state. They hope for religious tolerance.
Frances moves back to London to be at court and take part in the new plot. She is to attend Elizabeth once more. But it’s been five years and Elizabeth is not the same innocent girl anymore. She has formed her own opinions and is about to be married. “I shall marry a prince of the true faith, one who can help my father to rid this kingdom of papists once and for all.”
There is a lot of mention who is who and reference to their part in Book I, which is fine, but there is also reference to Tom Wintour, how he must have been tortured, felt and so forth and also Frances recognizing many faces at the court and her being afraid of them recognizing her. Because of that it seems as not much is happening in Book II.
As much as I liked Book I, I was not engrossed by Book II. And this is why I prefer stand-alone books as they tend to be much stronger.
@FB/BestHistoricalFiction
There are still some Catholics, who plot against the King and who want to install his daughter Elizabeth Stuart as the Catholic head of state. They hope for religious tolerance.
Frances moves back to London to be at court and take part in the new plot. She is to attend Elizabeth once more. But it’s been five years and Elizabeth is not the same innocent girl anymore. She has formed her own opinions and is about to be married. “I shall marry a prince of the true faith, one who can help my father to rid this kingdom of papists once and for all.”
There is a lot of mention who is who and reference to their part in Book I, which is fine, but there is also reference to Tom Wintour, how he must have been tortured, felt and so forth and also Frances recognizing many faces at the court and her being afraid of them recognizing her. Because of that it seems as not much is happening in Book II.
As much as I liked Book I, I was not engrossed by Book II. And this is why I prefer stand-alone books as they tend to be much stronger.
@FB/BestHistoricalFiction
July 26, 2019
The author says little is known about the lead character, Frances Gorges, so I am puzzled by the choice of making her so annoying. Frances makes silly decision after silly decision that it's amazing that she is walking around with her head on her shoulder. Why not smarten her up a little? It's confusing to me.
After being investigated for witchcraft in the last book for her herbal remedies, she continues like nothing happened and puts her servant, Ellen, in mortal danger. I gritted my teeth and hoped it would get better but no. Frances stumbles around making silly choices and putting her on collision courses with both her own brother and Prince Henry. This doesn't even count her long running feud with Cecil. Luckily she wanders into a wonderful marriage with her dead lover's friend.
I do like the time period. It's a time we don't read much about and I enjoy reading about James I,the first apparently gay monarch. I like the description of court life and the story of Princess Elizabeth and her quest for a suitable husband. I am not sure why the Princess is so devoted to Frances who resumes her role as her lady in waiting.
This is an average historical read with somewhat flat writing and an annoying lead character. Still it's nice to get a flavor for the times. Hopefully in the last book of the trilogy, Frances will smarten up and quit being silly.
Thanks to Net Galley for a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
After being investigated for witchcraft in the last book for her herbal remedies, she continues like nothing happened and puts her servant, Ellen, in mortal danger. I gritted my teeth and hoped it would get better but no. Frances stumbles around making silly choices and putting her on collision courses with both her own brother and Prince Henry. This doesn't even count her long running feud with Cecil. Luckily she wanders into a wonderful marriage with her dead lover's friend.
I do like the time period. It's a time we don't read much about and I enjoy reading about James I,the first apparently gay monarch. I like the description of court life and the story of Princess Elizabeth and her quest for a suitable husband. I am not sure why the Princess is so devoted to Frances who resumes her role as her lady in waiting.
This is an average historical read with somewhat flat writing and an annoying lead character. Still it's nice to get a flavor for the times. Hopefully in the last book of the trilogy, Frances will smarten up and quit being silly.
Thanks to Net Galley for a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
October 30, 2019
The Devil's Slave is right in my wheelhouse! No doubt this is a typical "Amy" read. Historical fiction, set with court intrigue, powerful alliances, a cross between faiths played out in the political arena. And at the center, a "wise woman," a healer, who is afraid to be tried as a witch, but wants to do everything in her power to use her skills to heal, to protect the ones she loves. In danger in this book, is a husband and son, and always herself at the center of forces beyond her. Questions of duty, mortality, politics, faith, love - its all in there. Heresy, and how herbal medicine is used and viewed - in there too. And the stringing up of witches, whether true or not, all in there.
The setting surrounds Frances Gourges, who was in the court of King James 1, attendant to Princess Elizabeth, his daughter. The Devil's Slave is the second new release of a trilogy that began with the King's Witch, and that book's central apex was the failed Gunpowder Plot, the hue of which shadows over this next book, set 5 years later. Cannot wait for the third.
Interesting to note, but the Devil's Slave actually refers to a person who holds onto Catholicism as the true faith, despite the doctrine and imperative to convert and pledge to Christianity. One who does the Catholic bidding is a slave to the Devil, as the implication is that this faith will unseat a sitting protestant King or Queen. One would have thought Devil would have a more mystical/evil term, rather than the conflict of faith. But heresy was seen that seriously, as worth dying for, and unseating the royalty over. And if not religion, land, money, personal safety, power, all of those were worth bargaining and dying for. Succession and who becomes the next heirs to the throne is everything, and every character in every novel will do the best to hold onto their morality and needs and survival, and will do anything to jockey their way into favor. If this is your thing, Philippa Gregory and Allison Weir fans, than go for this trilogy and start with the King's Witch. I am just ahead of you. Really loved it - but then again, this is my thing.
The setting surrounds Frances Gourges, who was in the court of King James 1, attendant to Princess Elizabeth, his daughter. The Devil's Slave is the second new release of a trilogy that began with the King's Witch, and that book's central apex was the failed Gunpowder Plot, the hue of which shadows over this next book, set 5 years later. Cannot wait for the third.
Interesting to note, but the Devil's Slave actually refers to a person who holds onto Catholicism as the true faith, despite the doctrine and imperative to convert and pledge to Christianity. One who does the Catholic bidding is a slave to the Devil, as the implication is that this faith will unseat a sitting protestant King or Queen. One would have thought Devil would have a more mystical/evil term, rather than the conflict of faith. But heresy was seen that seriously, as worth dying for, and unseating the royalty over. And if not religion, land, money, personal safety, power, all of those were worth bargaining and dying for. Succession and who becomes the next heirs to the throne is everything, and every character in every novel will do the best to hold onto their morality and needs and survival, and will do anything to jockey their way into favor. If this is your thing, Philippa Gregory and Allison Weir fans, than go for this trilogy and start with the King's Witch. I am just ahead of you. Really loved it - but then again, this is my thing.
February 14, 2020
This is Tracy Borman’s second novel in the Frances Gorges trilogy and continues on from the death of her lover Tom Wintour for his part as one of the conspirators in the infamous gunpowder plot. Unmarried and pregnant Frances returns to the safety of her parents at Longford where she is saved from suspicion and secures the future of their son by Wintour’s loyal friend Sir Thomas Tyringham, who offers Frances a marriage of convenience in order to spare her reputation.
Events progress leading them back to the court of King James and Frances finds herself and her family quickly thrown back into the dangerous plots and old fractions still trying to overturn the throne. Unfortunately the past doesn’t always stay hidden and enemies old and new begin to surface. She tries desperately to protect her family and keep herself clear of accusations of treason and witchcraft but despite her best efforts Frances becomes drawn further and further down into the devil’s lair.
Borman’s writing in ‘The Devil’s Slave’ is even more impressive than ‘The King’s Witch’ that covers the planning and eventual uncovering of the gunpowder plot. Frances proves herself to be a wonderfully strong and interesting female protagonist and the story is once again well researched, expertly weaving fact with fiction. I loved this read and look forward to getting my hands on the next installment which promises to be another page turner!
Events progress leading them back to the court of King James and Frances finds herself and her family quickly thrown back into the dangerous plots and old fractions still trying to overturn the throne. Unfortunately the past doesn’t always stay hidden and enemies old and new begin to surface. She tries desperately to protect her family and keep herself clear of accusations of treason and witchcraft but despite her best efforts Frances becomes drawn further and further down into the devil’s lair.
Borman’s writing in ‘The Devil’s Slave’ is even more impressive than ‘The King’s Witch’ that covers the planning and eventual uncovering of the gunpowder plot. Frances proves herself to be a wonderfully strong and interesting female protagonist and the story is once again well researched, expertly weaving fact with fiction. I loved this read and look forward to getting my hands on the next installment which promises to be another page turner!
Read
May 11, 2019Sadly, abandoned at 120 pages. Really enjoyed the first one.
June 2, 2019
I do enjoy a good historical novel; and this is a good historical novel
March 6, 2023
I'm not quite certain how she manages it, but Frances Gorges becomes associated with a number of different plots to dethrone James I and cause upheaval in his court in the course of this novel. As a reader, it's fun to meet a range of historical figures - Arabella Stuart, Walter Raleigh, Prince Henry of Wales, Princess Elizabeth (later to become the Winter Queen). I enjoyed how Frances' story continued and I'm definitely excited to read the next book in this series.
July 3, 2021
I knew I needed to get back into historical fiction, and heCK this was the exact book I needed to wet my appetite. I’m not gonna lie, I picked this book up 1. Because it was only ten dollars and 2. Because the name sounded pretty amusing to me. I did t expect to be so utterly enthralled in this book.
The Devil’s Slave is the second book in the Powder Treason plot trilogy. Having not read the first book, I was unsure of what to expect from this author. The novel covers, as told from the perspective of Lady Frances Tyringham, follows her experience in the court of James I of England in the years following The Powder Treason and attempted explosion of parliament. Steeped in accusations of witchcraft, and Hersey, hidden plots and secrets at the heart of court - the book follows Frances in her attempts to navigate court life as a secret catholic in the Protestant court.
While at times, the number of names did get confusing - I found Tracey Borman’s writing to be gripping and very enjoyable. Frances’ character was mind-blowingly infuriating at times yet endearing in how absolutely brilliant her mind was. With the looming threats of witchcraft, regicide and treason, it’s no wonder I was so utterly absorbed into this world. I appreciated Borman’s attention to the details of historical accuracy and court life, and her ability in being able to describe it so clearly throughout this book. I am also EXTREMELY GRATEFUL for the sweet lil romance between Frances and Thomas. I quite honestly would not have been able to handle a difficult romantic subplot ON TOP of religious heresy. Overall, such an enjoyable book - I’m excited to continue this series!
5 stars.
I’m also ngl the satisfaction I got in knowing that Prince Henry was going to die (from doing my googles) was the only thing that kept me going through his awful behaviour - actually so gross.
The Devil’s Slave is the second book in the Powder Treason plot trilogy. Having not read the first book, I was unsure of what to expect from this author. The novel covers, as told from the perspective of Lady Frances Tyringham, follows her experience in the court of James I of England in the years following The Powder Treason and attempted explosion of parliament. Steeped in accusations of witchcraft, and Hersey, hidden plots and secrets at the heart of court - the book follows Frances in her attempts to navigate court life as a secret catholic in the Protestant court.
While at times, the number of names did get confusing - I found Tracey Borman’s writing to be gripping and very enjoyable. Frances’ character was mind-blowingly infuriating at times yet endearing in how absolutely brilliant her mind was. With the looming threats of witchcraft, regicide and treason, it’s no wonder I was so utterly absorbed into this world. I appreciated Borman’s attention to the details of historical accuracy and court life, and her ability in being able to describe it so clearly throughout this book. I am also EXTREMELY GRATEFUL for the sweet lil romance between Frances and Thomas. I quite honestly would not have been able to handle a difficult romantic subplot ON TOP of religious heresy. Overall, such an enjoyable book - I’m excited to continue this series!
5 stars.
I’m also ngl the satisfaction I got in knowing that Prince Henry was going to die (from doing my googles) was the only thing that kept me going through his awful behaviour - actually so gross.
April 19, 2024
A fitting follow up to the first book. Frances Gorges has new challenges this time and her healing skills are put to further tests. This at a time when healing can be considered witch craft and James I can have you hanged on the basis of a mere accusation.
Some other lesser characters from the first book gain prominence in this installment and the plot is engaging. Fans of historic fiction are in for a treat. The author's note at the end explains how close this is to facts and that is impressive!
Some other lesser characters from the first book gain prominence in this installment and the plot is engaging. Fans of historic fiction are in for a treat. The author's note at the end explains how close this is to facts and that is impressive!
August 14, 2019
This book was an advanced copy granted to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I will fully admit to knowing very little about England after Elizabeth I. The Tudors are my historical wheelhouse. My go-to era. When The King's Witch caught my eye at the library, I was quickly drawn to the promise of a story of intrigue at the court of James I. The Stuart family, outside of Mary, Queen of Scots, is one I'm always looking to read about. The Devil's Slave is the follow up to The King's Witch and the second in a trilogy featuring Frances Gorges.
In the first novel, we see Frances attending Elizabeth I in her final days and later becoming an attendant to James' daughter, also Elizabeth. This novel takes us up to the events of the Gunpowder Plot. While the people around Frances are up to their necks in trying to put someone other than James on the throne, James makes Frances a target of one of his infamous witch hunts. The book ends with the failure of the Gunpowder Plot and Frances returning to her family's country home.
The opening of this novel finds Frances with a new husband and a new son. She's perfectly content in her new life away from court. Almost. When a blast from the past asks Frances for help, Frances immediately agrees and finds herself right back in the middle of all the court intrigue as a lady in waiting to the now teenage Princess Elizabeth. Past accusations continue to haunt Frances despite being a favorite of both the princess and Queen Anne. Not only is Frances fighting to keep her past behind her, she also manages to find herself in the middle of every single plot to remove James from his throne.
The plotting is what really slowed this book down for me. There were so many of them. I understand that all of those things are true. There really were a lot of plots. James I wasn't exactly winning popularity contests. However, I don't think Frances would have found herself in the middle of all of them at the same time. I found myself flipping back so I could remember who was supporting Arbella, who supports Princess Elizabeth, and who is Cecil chasing today. The attention was so scattered. I would have liked a little more focus on one plot.
Plotting was just one of my issues. Frances took a huge step backwards in this book. We are constantly being told how Frances desires to be away from court. How she wants to raise her son in peace. Yet here is Frances throwing herself right into the middle of everything because she feels like she owes more to the dead than the living. Frances makes a lot of bad choices and it is quite contrary to the Frances we meet in the first novel.
Frances does not win the prize for most irritating character. That award deserves to be equally split between two other major players. Prince Henry, James' heir, and Frances' brother, Edward were nothing more than caricatures. I had a hard time not picturing them with twirling mustaches and pointy beards. I'm not going to lie, I continued reading just because I wanted to see Prince Henry dead. I knew it was coming. It was just a matter of when.
At this point, one might wonder why I even bothered to finish this book. The simple answer is I wanted to see where it ended. I knew going into it there was a third book planned. What I really wanted to know by the end is where does this story stop. How far is Frances' story going to go? Realistically since there is so little known about Frances* (she doesn't even have a Wiki page), there's nothing to stop Borman from bringing Frances right up to Charles I.
*The little information I did find on Frances suggests she was married in 1610. A lot of things in this book don't work. The "real" events of this book start in 1610. When the story starts in 1610, Frances has been married for a few years. I would be interested in seeing the source notes.
I will fully admit to knowing very little about England after Elizabeth I. The Tudors are my historical wheelhouse. My go-to era. When The King's Witch caught my eye at the library, I was quickly drawn to the promise of a story of intrigue at the court of James I. The Stuart family, outside of Mary, Queen of Scots, is one I'm always looking to read about. The Devil's Slave is the follow up to The King's Witch and the second in a trilogy featuring Frances Gorges.
In the first novel, we see Frances attending Elizabeth I in her final days and later becoming an attendant to James' daughter, also Elizabeth. This novel takes us up to the events of the Gunpowder Plot. While the people around Frances are up to their necks in trying to put someone other than James on the throne, James makes Frances a target of one of his infamous witch hunts. The book ends with the failure of the Gunpowder Plot and Frances returning to her family's country home.
The opening of this novel finds Frances with a new husband and a new son. She's perfectly content in her new life away from court. Almost. When a blast from the past asks Frances for help, Frances immediately agrees and finds herself right back in the middle of all the court intrigue as a lady in waiting to the now teenage Princess Elizabeth. Past accusations continue to haunt Frances despite being a favorite of both the princess and Queen Anne. Not only is Frances fighting to keep her past behind her, she also manages to find herself in the middle of every single plot to remove James from his throne.
The plotting is what really slowed this book down for me. There were so many of them. I understand that all of those things are true. There really were a lot of plots. James I wasn't exactly winning popularity contests. However, I don't think Frances would have found herself in the middle of all of them at the same time. I found myself flipping back so I could remember who was supporting Arbella, who supports Princess Elizabeth, and who is Cecil chasing today. The attention was so scattered. I would have liked a little more focus on one plot.
Plotting was just one of my issues. Frances took a huge step backwards in this book. We are constantly being told how Frances desires to be away from court. How she wants to raise her son in peace. Yet here is Frances throwing herself right into the middle of everything because she feels like she owes more to the dead than the living. Frances makes a lot of bad choices and it is quite contrary to the Frances we meet in the first novel.
Frances does not win the prize for most irritating character. That award deserves to be equally split between two other major players. Prince Henry, James' heir, and Frances' brother, Edward were nothing more than caricatures. I had a hard time not picturing them with twirling mustaches and pointy beards. I'm not going to lie, I continued reading just because I wanted to see Prince Henry dead. I knew it was coming. It was just a matter of when.
At this point, one might wonder why I even bothered to finish this book. The simple answer is I wanted to see where it ended. I knew going into it there was a third book planned. What I really wanted to know by the end is where does this story stop. How far is Frances' story going to go? Realistically since there is so little known about Frances* (she doesn't even have a Wiki page), there's nothing to stop Borman from bringing Frances right up to Charles I.
*The little information I did find on Frances suggests she was married in 1610. A lot of things in this book don't work. The "real" events of this book start in 1610. When the story starts in 1610, Frances has been married for a few years. I would be interested in seeing the source notes.
March 25, 2020
I can't bear to continue. DNF@18%
This book opens with a completely unrealistic, unbelievable plot: Frances has left court under suspicion and is holed up at her family's manor house, because she was on the King's hit list and she's pregnant with an executed traitor's bastard child. Batting a thousand, Frances. The family's story is that she has an unknown contagious disease so they've fired most of the servants and she is sheltering-in-place. Once the baby is born, Frances will be disease-free, no explanation needed, and a long-lost relative will die and ask her to raise the orphaned newborn. Of course. Nobody could possibly imagine what was really happening.
I felt my intelligence was being insulted. Unfortunately it carries on in this vein with repeated absurdities. She is a complete idiot for one. Why did Borman make her so annoying and naive? And her 3 yearold son is doing things no 3 yearold could possibly do. And more. It's all contrived, annoyingly convenient and distracts from the main storyline which by the way, Borman takes her sweet time developing.
Very disappointing.
This book opens with a completely unrealistic, unbelievable plot: Frances has left court under suspicion and is holed up at her family's manor house, because she was on the King's hit list and she's pregnant with an executed traitor's bastard child. Batting a thousand, Frances. The family's story is that she has an unknown contagious disease so they've fired most of the servants and she is sheltering-in-place. Once the baby is born, Frances will be disease-free, no explanation needed, and a long-lost relative will die and ask her to raise the orphaned newborn. Of course. Nobody could possibly imagine what was really happening.
I felt my intelligence was being insulted. Unfortunately it carries on in this vein with repeated absurdities. She is a complete idiot for one. Why did Borman make her so annoying and naive? And her 3 yearold son is doing things no 3 yearold could possibly do. And more. It's all contrived, annoyingly convenient and distracts from the main storyline which by the way, Borman takes her sweet time developing.
Very disappointing.
July 14, 2019
This is the second book in the series about Lady Frances
Gorges who actually was a real life person.Its set during the court of James I and its full of intrigue and plotting involving the pursuit of catholics and witches. I really enjoyed both this and the first book in the series although Frances did annoy me a little in this one as she always seemed to be putting herself in dangerous situations. Looking forward to the last book coming out.
Gorges who actually was a real life person.Its set during the court of James I and its full of intrigue and plotting involving the pursuit of catholics and witches. I really enjoyed both this and the first book in the series although Frances did annoy me a little in this one as she always seemed to be putting herself in dangerous situations. Looking forward to the last book coming out.
June 24, 2019
Having enjoyed The King's Witch, I was interested to see what else life had in store for Frances in book two. Overall, The Devil's Slave was a good read. Perhaps it lacked a little of the excitement of the gunpowder plot in book one, but the novel was still well crafted, with good pacing and plenty of action along the way, especially as we moved into the latter half of the tale. Frances annoyed me once or twice with her bad decisions in this one, but on the whole she is a character the reader can get behind, and I am certainly keen to see how her story will end in book three. Recommended for fans of historical fiction who enjoy plenty of action and suspense in their stories.
I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 9, 2019
This is a perfectly serviceable historical novel. It's a quick read, well paced, with some good period color. The writing, though, is pedestrian (eyes blaze a lot), and the characters flat. The baddies are very bad, with no redeeming features; the good guys are very good, with only minor faults. I'd love to read a novel about the court of James I in which his complexities are really brought to life. If you want an undemanding commuter read, this does the trick.
Thank you, NetGalley and Grove Atlantic, for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you, NetGalley and Grove Atlantic, for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 5, 2019
In the aftermath of the Gunpowder Plot Frances Gorges returns to her parents estate to lick her wounds and mourn her beloved Tom Wintour. She also needs to hide the growing life inside her from the malicious court of James I. When Sir Thomas Tyringham offers her marriage, fully aware of her situation, Frances sees it as a way out of scandal. But the Catholic plotters haven't finished with her and Frances must return to court. Borman's writing is thoroughly engaging and I liked how she incorporated aspects of her non-fiction into this novel. Looking forward to how Frances's story will end in the final novel of the trilogy.
June 8, 2024
Tracy Borman writes beautifully suspenseful historical novels I almost feel like I’m in the court of James I myself. Looking forward to reading the last book of the trilogy.
August 4, 2019
Cannot wait for book 3!! Xx
May 17, 2024
I loved this book. It’s so well written and I could hardly put it down. Such a fascinating time period in history- I’m so grateful I didn’t live in it.
I will be looking for more Tracy Borman books to read. She makes history very interesting and her style of writing is very easy to understand.
I will be looking for more Tracy Borman books to read. She makes history very interesting and her style of writing is very easy to understand.
January 6, 2023
This is the second part of the Frances Gorges trilogy, and follows on from The King's Witch which I have previously read and enjoyed. The book begins sedately with Frances living a quiet life in the countryside, along with her husband and young son, George.
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For my full review please visit my blog at:
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March 29, 2020
Let me say this first and foremost. If you are not well versed in England's history, especially around the time of the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, then, by all means, you'll need to read "The King's Witch" first. These are not standalone books but a continuation of events from the previous story. I do wish they would've been categorized as a series, making new readers to this author a little more prepared but since I'm not in that inner circle, that's just a personal opinion. I am, however, fascinated with England's history and had a vague knowledge but nothing as in-depth as was needed to just pick up in the middle of things. The threading of Frances' story through the actual historical events and tying her in with actual persons of history gave her story and circumstances a realism that pulled me in and kept me engrossed with the telling. What can I say about the characters and world-building? Tracy Borman is a joint chief curator of England's Historic Royal Palaces and has also written several non-fiction books about the time. That in itself, led me to believe she knew precisely how to bring me, and her other readers, to the exact location needed with all the characters and their given personality traits. I truly was impressed with this book and will indeed be backtracking to read book one, and I am excited for the next book I see coming.
June 19, 2019
I received a finished copy and an digital arc of this book and am grateful for both.
I would like to thank netgalley and Grove Atlantic for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I would like to thank Becca Mundy and Border Fiction for a free finished copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this one and can't wait for the final book in the trilogy.
I would like to thank netgalley and Grove Atlantic for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I would like to thank Becca Mundy and Border Fiction for a free finished copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this one and can't wait for the final book in the trilogy.
March 27, 2023
Loved it, was just as gripping as the 1st novel although I do not know how Frances got herself in half the situations she did
The history geek in me loved getting an insight to the era and many of the well known characters of the time, cannot wait to get started on the next I this series although at the same time I do not want the series to end
The history geek in me loved getting an insight to the era and many of the well known characters of the time, cannot wait to get started on the next I this series although at the same time I do not want the series to end
April 22, 2024
Having narrowly escaped death via the noose for witchcraft, and watching the Powder Treason plotters go to their deaths, Frances Gorges carries a secret back to her family estate at Longford. With her brother enjoying playing 'Lord of the Manor' just a bit too much, it's not long before she has to find a way out of there too. Fortunately, and old 'friend' comes to her rescue. But you can only stay away from the King's Court for so long, and after a too brief respite she finds herself back in the midst of plots, Princes and peril.
I found this one a lot slower in pace than 'The King's Witch', I think because where the first book had a clear end crescendo in 5 November 1605, it was less clear where this was going to end up. I was able to figure it out, but the event in question, while it did change the course of history to an extent, is very much a whimper compared with the bang (pun intended) of the Gunpowder Plot. The story does build up, but it doesn't convey the same thrill as the first. At the same time however, the chronology skips past very quickly without detracting from the story. You know everything you need to, and the gaps in time don't really register.
There are definitely less likeable characters in this one, which also made it a harder read. Apart from Frances, her husband and her son (who is so cute!), even the returning characters has less overall appeal and we're all just a bit 'off'. Robert Cecil recedes into the background (though is still present), so his glorious awfulness is stunted, and he is effectively replaced by Frances' brother Edward and Prince Henry, neither of which seem to have any redeeming qualities whatsoever! They are both slimy, horrible creatures, and yet I didn't get the same sense of awe as I did from Cecil in book 1.
I'm sure the plot itself does refect events that occurred to an extent, but in this case I found Frances' repeatedly being strong armed into plots against the Royal Family to be a bit less believable. The initial draw in absolutely makes sense in the context of both history and the story, but the subsequent strings being pulled feel a bit too much for one woman to be that entrenched in. Although, I do think it's a shame that the author didn't follow through on that lovely little parallel she draws at the pivotal moment; that would have been a great bit of writing to tie a few things together.
I liked the development of Frances and Thomas' relationship. Yes, it's very trope-y and a bit cheesy, but it doesn't feel too out of place. You do root for them as a couple once things get going, especially because of the adorable father/son relationship between Thomas and George, and yet it's not an obvious state of affairs - I think the relationship could have stayed as it was at the outset of the book and the story would have continued just fine.
I will order the last in the trilogy from my library to finish off the series. It is a good read, but this one just didn't quite hit the spot for me.
I found this one a lot slower in pace than 'The King's Witch', I think because where the first book had a clear end crescendo in 5 November 1605, it was less clear where this was going to end up. I was able to figure it out, but the event in question, while it did change the course of history to an extent, is very much a whimper compared with the bang (pun intended) of the Gunpowder Plot. The story does build up, but it doesn't convey the same thrill as the first. At the same time however, the chronology skips past very quickly without detracting from the story. You know everything you need to, and the gaps in time don't really register.
There are definitely less likeable characters in this one, which also made it a harder read. Apart from Frances, her husband and her son (who is so cute!), even the returning characters has less overall appeal and we're all just a bit 'off'. Robert Cecil recedes into the background (though is still present), so his glorious awfulness is stunted, and he is effectively replaced by Frances' brother Edward and Prince Henry, neither of which seem to have any redeeming qualities whatsoever! They are both slimy, horrible creatures, and yet I didn't get the same sense of awe as I did from Cecil in book 1.
I'm sure the plot itself does refect events that occurred to an extent, but in this case I found Frances' repeatedly being strong armed into plots against the Royal Family to be a bit less believable. The initial draw in absolutely makes sense in the context of both history and the story, but the subsequent strings being pulled feel a bit too much for one woman to be that entrenched in. Although, I do think it's a shame that the author didn't follow through on that lovely little parallel she draws at the pivotal moment; that would have been a great bit of writing to tie a few things together.
I liked the development of Frances and Thomas' relationship. Yes, it's very trope-y and a bit cheesy, but it doesn't feel too out of place. You do root for them as a couple once things get going, especially because of the adorable father/son relationship between Thomas and George, and yet it's not an obvious state of affairs - I think the relationship could have stayed as it was at the outset of the book and the story would have continued just fine.
I will order the last in the trilogy from my library to finish off the series. It is a good read, but this one just didn't quite hit the spot for me.
September 4, 2019
My thanks to Grove Atlantic/Atlantic Monthly Press for a digital edition via NetGalley of Tracy Borman’s ‘The Devil’s Slave’ in exchange for an honest review. It was published in the USA on 3 September.
As the U.K. edition was published in June, I elected to purchase its audiobook edition produced by Hodder & Stoughton and narrated by Esther Wane This allowed me to combine listening with reading for an immersive experience.
This is the second in Borman’s Frances Gorges trilogy set in the early 17th Century during the reign of King James I. At the conclusion of the first in the series, ‘The King’s Witch’, Frances Gorges was pregnant with the child of her dead lover, Thomas Wintour, who had been executed for his part in the Powder Treason of November 1605.
Frances returned to her family’s estate intending to keep a low profile amid rumours of continuing conspiracies by Catholics against James. She agrees to a marriage of convenience to protect her reputation and her unborn child. A few years later Frances, with her husband and young son return to the Court. It continues to be a dangerous place for her.
This was an excellent work of historical fiction. Tracy Borman has written a number of nonfiction books on British royalty and holds the position of Joint Chief Curator with fellow historian Lucy Worsley of the Historic Royal Palaces. In addition to her solid background, she writes in a very engaging way.
I was a bit concerned that I might feel lost as I hadn’t read ‘The King’s Witch’ before this. However, the Prologue provides enough background so I didn’t feel lost.
Borman captures the period and the convoluted plots that were part of the Jacobean court with confidence. She also passes my ‘God’ test in that her characters’ religious beliefs are in keeping with the period depicted rather than imposing modern secular attitudes.
I was delighted to learn in the Author’s Notes that Frances was a historical figure, even though details of her life are scarce. Tracy Borman does make note of the real life events that informed her narrative.
Overall, I enjoyed it very much and plan to read the first in the series and look forward to her final book.
4.5 rounded up to 5.
As the U.K. edition was published in June, I elected to purchase its audiobook edition produced by Hodder & Stoughton and narrated by Esther Wane This allowed me to combine listening with reading for an immersive experience.
This is the second in Borman’s Frances Gorges trilogy set in the early 17th Century during the reign of King James I. At the conclusion of the first in the series, ‘The King’s Witch’, Frances Gorges was pregnant with the child of her dead lover, Thomas Wintour, who had been executed for his part in the Powder Treason of November 1605.
Frances returned to her family’s estate intending to keep a low profile amid rumours of continuing conspiracies by Catholics against James. She agrees to a marriage of convenience to protect her reputation and her unborn child. A few years later Frances, with her husband and young son return to the Court. It continues to be a dangerous place for her.
This was an excellent work of historical fiction. Tracy Borman has written a number of nonfiction books on British royalty and holds the position of Joint Chief Curator with fellow historian Lucy Worsley of the Historic Royal Palaces. In addition to her solid background, she writes in a very engaging way.
I was a bit concerned that I might feel lost as I hadn’t read ‘The King’s Witch’ before this. However, the Prologue provides enough background so I didn’t feel lost.
Borman captures the period and the convoluted plots that were part of the Jacobean court with confidence. She also passes my ‘God’ test in that her characters’ religious beliefs are in keeping with the period depicted rather than imposing modern secular attitudes.
I was delighted to learn in the Author’s Notes that Frances was a historical figure, even though details of her life are scarce. Tracy Borman does make note of the real life events that informed her narrative.
Overall, I enjoyed it very much and plan to read the first in the series and look forward to her final book.
4.5 rounded up to 5.
December 14, 2020
Tracy Borman's The Devil's Slave is even better than The King's Witch.
We are reacquainted with Frances Gorges as she returns to Longford, her family estate, pregnant with Tom Wintour's child. One day she has an important visitor. Sir Thomas Tyringham asks Frances to marry him, thus giving her child a name. They marry and move to the Tyringham estate in Buckinghamshire. When George is a young child, Frances receives a letter persuading her to come back to Court and resume her old position with Princess Elizabeth.
The family travel to London, where Frances and Thomas have to share sleeping arrangements, which she dreads as theirs is a marriage of convenience. Frances rejoins the princess' household, but is secretly summoned to rekindle her place within the plotting and intrigue to bring the true faith, Catholicism, back to favour again.
Robert Cecil is still watching everyone, especially Frances. Prince Henry tries to poison George's mind against her, but is only partially successful. Prince Henry is obsessed with finding a suitor for his sister, but Frances is told to point out the deficiencies of each one. King James is less bothered with this. All he cares about is the money the suitor brings to England's treasury.
Queen Anne stays away from Court as much as she can. She seems pleased that Frances is back.
The plots and intrigue grow ever more dangerous, as the differing factions all seek to further their cause, religious or otherwise.
Frances soon learns to love her husband and their marriage improves. However, she feels she cannot trust Thomas with her secret activities until it all becomes too much to bear. Frances admits everything to her husband. He goes to the King. Frances is worried that she will soon be arrested either for witchcraft or treachery. The wait is in vain.
Events overtake them and Frances is able to relax a bit. She suggests they return home to the Tyringham estate, where she will give birth to her second child.
The book is so well written that I felt I was walking alongside all the characters during their daily lives. I'm looking forward to buying the third book.
We are reacquainted with Frances Gorges as she returns to Longford, her family estate, pregnant with Tom Wintour's child. One day she has an important visitor. Sir Thomas Tyringham asks Frances to marry him, thus giving her child a name. They marry and move to the Tyringham estate in Buckinghamshire. When George is a young child, Frances receives a letter persuading her to come back to Court and resume her old position with Princess Elizabeth.
The family travel to London, where Frances and Thomas have to share sleeping arrangements, which she dreads as theirs is a marriage of convenience. Frances rejoins the princess' household, but is secretly summoned to rekindle her place within the plotting and intrigue to bring the true faith, Catholicism, back to favour again.
Robert Cecil is still watching everyone, especially Frances. Prince Henry tries to poison George's mind against her, but is only partially successful. Prince Henry is obsessed with finding a suitor for his sister, but Frances is told to point out the deficiencies of each one. King James is less bothered with this. All he cares about is the money the suitor brings to England's treasury.
Queen Anne stays away from Court as much as she can. She seems pleased that Frances is back.
The plots and intrigue grow ever more dangerous, as the differing factions all seek to further their cause, religious or otherwise.
Frances soon learns to love her husband and their marriage improves. However, she feels she cannot trust Thomas with her secret activities until it all becomes too much to bear. Frances admits everything to her husband. He goes to the King. Frances is worried that she will soon be arrested either for witchcraft or treachery. The wait is in vain.
Events overtake them and Frances is able to relax a bit. She suggests they return home to the Tyringham estate, where she will give birth to her second child.
The book is so well written that I felt I was walking alongside all the characters during their daily lives. I'm looking forward to buying the third book.
October 18, 2019
I was not immediately familiar with this series when I started, so I will be the first to admit the title threw me a little. So the story ended up being surprisingly good. The story begins with our heroine, Frances Gorges, who after being accused and acquited of witchcraft by the loyal beagle of King James, has returned to her family home. After her husband Tom was sent to the gallows for conspiring to kill the King, Frances needs to keep a low profile because she is pregnant, and she cannot risk anyone seeing her and ratting her out for carrying the blood of a traitor. Frances finds unexpected salvation when Thomas Tyringham, a good friend of her now deceased husband offers to marry her and accept responsibility for her and her unborn son. He asks little of her other than she stay clear of any further catholic plots against the crown. Having few choices, Frances accepts his proposal. However, it isn’t long before old alliances start to creep back into Frances’s life, bringing fresh whispers of a resurgence in Catholic resistance. InitIally resistant to joining in with their cause, Frances finds secrets don’t like to stay hidden, and her old alliances threaten to expose her son’s true parentage. Feeling she has no choice, Frances decides to accept a role in their new scheme. With old and new enemies watching her, Frances accepts her new tasks, quietly trying to sway the tide in favor of the Catholic cause, while simultaneously trying to appear as a loyal citizen of King James’s court.
The characters and timelines in this story is for the most part historically accurate, and it definitely made this more interesting for me since I am not very familiar with this particular time in history. The story is beautifully written. There is a palpable fear for Frances, whose role in the Catholic resistance and as a natural healer, puts her in a position of assuming extreme risk. I will have to go back and read book one and definitely look forward to book three in this series. Thank you Netgalley for the galley.
The characters and timelines in this story is for the most part historically accurate, and it definitely made this more interesting for me since I am not very familiar with this particular time in history. The story is beautifully written. There is a palpable fear for Frances, whose role in the Catholic resistance and as a natural healer, puts her in a position of assuming extreme risk. I will have to go back and read book one and definitely look forward to book three in this series. Thank you Netgalley for the galley.
August 21, 2019
This is the second of the author’s Stuart-era planned trilogy. This book picks up where the first book, “The King’s Witch,” left off. Frances Gorges is pregnant with the child of the now-dead traitor, Thomas Wintour. She has sought refuge at her family’s estate and is under the thumb of her ambitious brother, who wants nothing to do with his pregnant sister and her bastard child. Frances knows she is still in danger from Lord Cecil who knows she was part of the Catholic-driven Gunpowder Plot in 1605, that sought to kill the King and his councilors, but can’t yet prove her guilt. She had also been suspected of witchcraft because, like so many other women, she made potions to help ease pain, etc. Like other worshipers of the Catholic religion, Frances has gone into hiding because King James is Puritan and wants all other religions extinguished.
The book is well written for the most part, the characters are drawn well, and plot is, of course, taken right out of the history books. Frances can be a little irritating because she takes unnecessary risks. Her devotion to Thomas Wintour years after his death is hard to understand since he very nearly cost Frances and her unborn child their lives, and the danger to them continues years later. Her decision to become once again involved in a plot to kill the King is nothing short of incredulous.
Unfortunately, if you haven’t read the first book in this series and are not very knowledgeable about the Stuart era, this book may be difficult to read because Borman doesn’t give the new-to-her-series readers any information about who’s who. The reader will either be compelled to either go to Google for a quick overview in order to understand who the various historical characters are and their relationship to one another or set the book aside.
However, if you read “The King’s Witch” or have some familiarity with Stuart England, you may very well enjoy this book enormously.
My thanks to Grove Atlantic and NetGalley for an e-ARC.
The book is well written for the most part, the characters are drawn well, and plot is, of course, taken right out of the history books. Frances can be a little irritating because she takes unnecessary risks. Her devotion to Thomas Wintour years after his death is hard to understand since he very nearly cost Frances and her unborn child their lives, and the danger to them continues years later. Her decision to become once again involved in a plot to kill the King is nothing short of incredulous.
Unfortunately, if you haven’t read the first book in this series and are not very knowledgeable about the Stuart era, this book may be difficult to read because Borman doesn’t give the new-to-her-series readers any information about who’s who. The reader will either be compelled to either go to Google for a quick overview in order to understand who the various historical characters are and their relationship to one another or set the book aside.
However, if you read “The King’s Witch” or have some familiarity with Stuart England, you may very well enjoy this book enormously.
My thanks to Grove Atlantic and NetGalley for an e-ARC.
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