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Elizabethan #2
Essex: Tudor Rebel
Robert Devereux, Earl of Essex, is one of the most intriguing men of the Elizabethan period. Tall and handsome, he soon becomes a ‘favourite’ at court, so close to the queen many wonder if they are lovers.
The truth is far more complex, as each has what the other yearns for. Robert Devereux longs for recognition, wealth and influence. His flamboyant naïveté amuses the ageing Queen Elizabeth, like the son she never had, and his vitality makes her feel young.
Robert Devereux’s remarkable true story continues the epic tale of the rise of the Tudors, which began with the best-selling Tudor trilogy and concludes with the reign of Queen Elizabeth I.
The truth is far more complex, as each has what the other yearns for. Robert Devereux longs for recognition, wealth and influence. His flamboyant naïveté amuses the ageing Queen Elizabeth, like the son she never had, and his vitality makes her feel young.
Robert Devereux’s remarkable true story continues the epic tale of the rise of the Tudors, which began with the best-selling Tudor trilogy and concludes with the reign of Queen Elizabeth I.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 9, 2021
127 people are currently reading
84 people want to read
About the author
Tony Riches
27 books471 followersTony Riches is a full-time author from Pembrokeshire, West Wales, an area full of inspiration for his writing.
Best known for his Tudor Trilogy, Tony's other international best sellers include 'Mary - Tudor Princess, 'Brandon - Tudor Knight' and 'Katherine - Tudor Duchess'.
In his spare time Tony enjoys sailing and sea kayaking. Visit Tony's website at www.tonyriches.com, Tony Riches Author on Facebook and follow him on Twitter @tonyriches.
Best known for his Tudor Trilogy, Tony's other international best sellers include 'Mary - Tudor Princess, 'Brandon - Tudor Knight' and 'Katherine - Tudor Duchess'.
In his spare time Tony enjoys sailing and sea kayaking. Visit Tony's website at www.tonyriches.com, Tony Riches Author on Facebook and follow him on Twitter @tonyriches.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
May 9, 2021
Essex - Tudor Rebel is the second in the Elizabethan Series from Riches.
Having just finished Elizabeth’s Last Favourite by Sarah-Beth Watkins this couldn't have come at a better time to continue my interest in Robert Devereux 2nd Earl of Essex.
Riches takes the reader on a journey of Essex's life through his childhood and the loss of his father through to his death.
Essex led an incredibly fascinating life full of intrigue, often placing himself at the mercy of Elizabeth’s wrath through his ambition and arrogance.
Essex found himself in the midst of scandal and courtly secrets throughout his life, often playing a pivotal role such as his secret wedding and sailing the seas with Drake without the Queen's permission.
I'm a huge fan of Riches previous books and this is another fabulous addition to the collection. Riches has a way of transporting you right into the centre of the life of his subject with detailed desciptives of the court, clothing and atmosphere.
The first in this series, Drake - Tudor Corsair was also a brilliant read and I am already looking forward to the next instalment!
Having just finished Elizabeth’s Last Favourite by Sarah-Beth Watkins this couldn't have come at a better time to continue my interest in Robert Devereux 2nd Earl of Essex.
Riches takes the reader on a journey of Essex's life through his childhood and the loss of his father through to his death.
Essex led an incredibly fascinating life full of intrigue, often placing himself at the mercy of Elizabeth’s wrath through his ambition and arrogance.
Essex found himself in the midst of scandal and courtly secrets throughout his life, often playing a pivotal role such as his secret wedding and sailing the seas with Drake without the Queen's permission.
I'm a huge fan of Riches previous books and this is another fabulous addition to the collection. Riches has a way of transporting you right into the centre of the life of his subject with detailed desciptives of the court, clothing and atmosphere.
The first in this series, Drake - Tudor Corsair was also a brilliant read and I am already looking forward to the next instalment!
June 1, 2021
The first book I read by Tony Riches was set in the early 15th century and featured Eleanor Cobham, wife to a royal Duke who was accused of being a witch and ended up locked up for the rest of her life. Better, I suppose, than being executed.
Since then, I have followed Tony forward through time. His excellent Tudor series, depicting the rise of said dynasty, was followed by insightful books about Tudor royals and grandees, notably Henry VIII’s sister, Princess Mary, and her husband, Charles Brandon. More recently, he has moved into Elizabethan times, and with Essex Tony Riches takes us into the last few decades of Elizabeth I’s long reign.
I am not all that keen on Tudor times. I am rather sick of books about Anne Boleyn, this latter-day martyr to true love who was probably an ambitious and grasping young woman. And as to Anne Boleyn’s daughter, I have always been rather impressed by the queen Elizabeth I, but as a person I dare say she wasn’t all that likeable.
Maybe that is why I so enjoyed Tony’s book, Essex. Here we have an ageing queen who still expects men to fawn and flatter. We have a queen who ruthlessly uses the men around her, promising favours and compensations for expenses incurred while never really having the intention of paying up. The protagonist of Essex, Robert Deveraux, experiences first hand as a child how his father sinks deeper and deeper into debt while serving his queen, the promised moneys to cover his expenses on behalf of the crown never materialising.
Tony Riches’ Elizabeth is old. She is also lonely, bitter, extremely intelligent and just as manipulative. Elizabeth doesn’t want to be old. For a little while yet, she wants to pretend she is still young, still handsome enough to genuinely have men falling at her feet—which is why the very handsome and vibrant Robert Deveraux, Earl of Essex, becomes a favourite of hers.
What ultimately happens between those two is well-known, and I really enjoyed how Tony guided us through the accumulating tensions and frustrations of Robert Deveraux that ended with him taking treasonous action. What Tony Riches does is breathe life into Robert Deveraux , adding depths to his personality that present us with a young man very far from the vain glory-hound he is often presented as.
This Robert cares about people. He worries about his siblings, about the maid he initiates a relationship with, even about his very distant mother. He is affectionate with his wife—the wife he weds in secret so as not to enrage the queen (did not work). He even cares for Elizabeth—at least initially—recognising just how isolated she is as Gloriana the queen. Most of all, though, Robert is driven by the desire to acquit himself well, to somehow leave his mark on the world and, in doing so, repair the fortunes of his family—the fortunes his father lost while serving the queen who ultimately signs Robert’s execution order.
In a court as intricate as a giant cobweb, a man like Essex easily gets lost and tangles with the sticky threads. And in the middle sits the spider herself. She may be ageing, but Elizabeth never relinquishes control over her kingdom nor forgives those who threaten it. But I dare say she wept for the man who was once so young and handsome. What she probably didn’t do was reflect on how she contributed to the desperation that led to his downfall.
A warmly recommended read!
Since then, I have followed Tony forward through time. His excellent Tudor series, depicting the rise of said dynasty, was followed by insightful books about Tudor royals and grandees, notably Henry VIII’s sister, Princess Mary, and her husband, Charles Brandon. More recently, he has moved into Elizabethan times, and with Essex Tony Riches takes us into the last few decades of Elizabeth I’s long reign.
I am not all that keen on Tudor times. I am rather sick of books about Anne Boleyn, this latter-day martyr to true love who was probably an ambitious and grasping young woman. And as to Anne Boleyn’s daughter, I have always been rather impressed by the queen Elizabeth I, but as a person I dare say she wasn’t all that likeable.
Maybe that is why I so enjoyed Tony’s book, Essex. Here we have an ageing queen who still expects men to fawn and flatter. We have a queen who ruthlessly uses the men around her, promising favours and compensations for expenses incurred while never really having the intention of paying up. The protagonist of Essex, Robert Deveraux, experiences first hand as a child how his father sinks deeper and deeper into debt while serving his queen, the promised moneys to cover his expenses on behalf of the crown never materialising.
Tony Riches’ Elizabeth is old. She is also lonely, bitter, extremely intelligent and just as manipulative. Elizabeth doesn’t want to be old. For a little while yet, she wants to pretend she is still young, still handsome enough to genuinely have men falling at her feet—which is why the very handsome and vibrant Robert Deveraux, Earl of Essex, becomes a favourite of hers.
What ultimately happens between those two is well-known, and I really enjoyed how Tony guided us through the accumulating tensions and frustrations of Robert Deveraux that ended with him taking treasonous action. What Tony Riches does is breathe life into Robert Deveraux , adding depths to his personality that present us with a young man very far from the vain glory-hound he is often presented as.
This Robert cares about people. He worries about his siblings, about the maid he initiates a relationship with, even about his very distant mother. He is affectionate with his wife—the wife he weds in secret so as not to enrage the queen (did not work). He even cares for Elizabeth—at least initially—recognising just how isolated she is as Gloriana the queen. Most of all, though, Robert is driven by the desire to acquit himself well, to somehow leave his mark on the world and, in doing so, repair the fortunes of his family—the fortunes his father lost while serving the queen who ultimately signs Robert’s execution order.
In a court as intricate as a giant cobweb, a man like Essex easily gets lost and tangles with the sticky threads. And in the middle sits the spider herself. She may be ageing, but Elizabeth never relinquishes control over her kingdom nor forgives those who threaten it. But I dare say she wept for the man who was once so young and handsome. What she probably didn’t do was reflect on how she contributed to the desperation that led to his downfall.
A warmly recommended read!
March 20, 2023
“Essex” by Tony Riches
Handsome, roguish, flamboyant, arrogant, charming , hotheaded and impulsive - this is how I would describe Robert Deveraux, lord Essex, knowing his short-sighted decisions, rush actions and untimely demise. But was he always destined to become such person?
***
Not every child becomes an adult, but every adult was a child once.
in the course of life and serious -“adult” - relationships, feelings, choices, deeds, actions, affairs,
earlier time subside to the background. It easy to forget that everything starts in childhood and every grownup is impacted by its events.
What do I remember as a child? Why is this particular memory stuck? What earlier memories I would like to forget and what is the reason?
Was I essentially the same person at 10 as I’m now?
These questions flooded my mind when i started to read “Essex” by Tony Riches.
Already at the first pages my original impression of the persona started to crumble.
Meet a gifted child of 11,
losing his father and having estranged mother, torn out from his family and thrown in welcoming but unknown household.
Navigating through his own insecurities, learning to find ways to support, to assert himself, to gain knowledge how to survive and strive within intricacies of the court - this was Essex’s maturity age.
Nevertheless, he never became an adult.
He was as close as a son to Elizabeth I, as could be, always trying to win her attention, her approval, hurt with the lack of it . His self-centered approach, often sign of a spoiled child, would be his downfall.
His bright ideas, often with wrong reasoning, followed by rush decisions, which were rarely thought through, and carelessness of consequences lay his life path.
Come to think of his behavioral extravagance - was it in part attention craving, unfulfilled in childhood?
Short, tumultuous and sparkling life of Robert Devereaux in “Essex” by Tony Riches will keep you engaged and entertained.
Handsome, roguish, flamboyant, arrogant, charming , hotheaded and impulsive - this is how I would describe Robert Deveraux, lord Essex, knowing his short-sighted decisions, rush actions and untimely demise. But was he always destined to become such person?
***
Not every child becomes an adult, but every adult was a child once.
in the course of life and serious -“adult” - relationships, feelings, choices, deeds, actions, affairs,
earlier time subside to the background. It easy to forget that everything starts in childhood and every grownup is impacted by its events.
What do I remember as a child? Why is this particular memory stuck? What earlier memories I would like to forget and what is the reason?
Was I essentially the same person at 10 as I’m now?
These questions flooded my mind when i started to read “Essex” by Tony Riches.
Already at the first pages my original impression of the persona started to crumble.
Meet a gifted child of 11,
losing his father and having estranged mother, torn out from his family and thrown in welcoming but unknown household.
Navigating through his own insecurities, learning to find ways to support, to assert himself, to gain knowledge how to survive and strive within intricacies of the court - this was Essex’s maturity age.
Nevertheless, he never became an adult.
He was as close as a son to Elizabeth I, as could be, always trying to win her attention, her approval, hurt with the lack of it . His self-centered approach, often sign of a spoiled child, would be his downfall.
His bright ideas, often with wrong reasoning, followed by rush decisions, which were rarely thought through, and carelessness of consequences lay his life path.
Come to think of his behavioral extravagance - was it in part attention craving, unfulfilled in childhood?
Short, tumultuous and sparkling life of Robert Devereaux in “Essex” by Tony Riches will keep you engaged and entertained.
June 26, 2021
This novel offers a wonderful journey into the world of Robert Devereux, 2nd Earl of Essex. The author conducted a tremendous and painstaking historical research that stresses diligent and assiduous attention to historical detail, events, and realistic portrayals of characters. The prose is engaging and helps bring the story of a really fascinating character – Robert Deveraux – to life; it is also engaging and vibrant. When one reads this novel, they experience a gamut of emotions as they travel through the life of Robert, his wife, and his family, which is quite moving.
I truly appreciate that Tony Riches wrote Robert’s childhood and his adolescence, starting from the death of his father. I will not say more about this not to deprive the readers of the chance to be intrigued by Robert’s childhood and the formative events in his life that shaped his personality. One of my favorite characters is Elizabeth Cecil and her friendly relationship with Robert, and I was sad when she died young, just as she did in history. The novel gives an immensely interesting insight into Robert’s relationship with his mother, Lettice Knollys; I was also intrigued by the death of Robert’s father – a nice addition to the awesome plot.
I like Robert’s relationship with Frances Deveraux née Walsingham (previously Sidney), but I will not reveal more in this review. Frances is one of my favorite characters, and I felt as if I had lived through her marriage to Robert together with her, taking close to heart all their joys and sorrows which they experienced in their marital life. It was great to see Philip Sidney, Frances’ first husband, in this novel as well. There are many characters in this wonderful work about whom I know a lot from history, yet I read few historical fiction books about them before I began reading Tony Riches’ book. The addition of such characters as Philip Sidney and Francis Bacon make the novel more vibrant and show the intellectual elite that thrived in the cultural Elizabethan era.
I really love the evolution of Robert’s relationship with his mother, Lettice Knollys, and her second husband, Robert Dudley. I admired the evolution of Lettice’s personality and how her relationship with Robert changed over time. Reading chapters about Robert’s journeys and his military expeditions, including his unfortunate campaign in Ireland, I felt as if I had traveled with him to the Netherlands, France, and Spain, and I learned many new things. The author performed a brilliant and in-depth research into Robert’s journeys and history of other countries.
Robert’s relationship with Queen Elizabeth I of England is presented in a new light for me. The scenes featuring Elizabeth depict this great female monarch (she is my favorite English queen) close to how she was in history, but I really appreciate that Elizabeth is not portrayed as an ideal ruler – her mistakes and weaknesses of character are shown in a plausible way. It is heartbreaking to see how their initially affectionate relationship is slowly being shattered by Robert’s enemies and, sadly, by his own impulsive decisions that eventually led to his own downfall. The Cecil family are important characters. We see the bravery, honesty, and intelligence of Robert Deveraux.
Robert Devereux, Earl of Essex, is portrayed as a multi-dimensional character, with his own strength and weaknesses. He is not an ideal character, which makes him even more realistic and humane. It is easy to identify with Essex, to gain a deeper understanding of him and insight into his life. Robert is courageous, quick-thinking, honorable, and clever; yet, he is also a bit impulsive and sometimes too direct, which was not a good quality for courtiers. He demonstrates how brave and quick-thinking he is when Robert needs to sometimes regain the favor of Queen Elizabeth. However, he is not a political genius unlike the Cecil family, which eventually plays a bad joke with him. The Earl of Essex is shown as a man of his time, nevertheless he went ahead of his time and many contemporaries because he was brave enough to challenge the traditional aspects of a courtier’s life back then, never fearing to act in accordance with his principles and ideals.
I truly appreciate that Tony Riches wrote Robert’s childhood and his adolescence, starting from the death of his father. I will not say more about this not to deprive the readers of the chance to be intrigued by Robert’s childhood and the formative events in his life that shaped his personality. One of my favorite characters is Elizabeth Cecil and her friendly relationship with Robert, and I was sad when she died young, just as she did in history. The novel gives an immensely interesting insight into Robert’s relationship with his mother, Lettice Knollys; I was also intrigued by the death of Robert’s father – a nice addition to the awesome plot.
I like Robert’s relationship with Frances Deveraux née Walsingham (previously Sidney), but I will not reveal more in this review. Frances is one of my favorite characters, and I felt as if I had lived through her marriage to Robert together with her, taking close to heart all their joys and sorrows which they experienced in their marital life. It was great to see Philip Sidney, Frances’ first husband, in this novel as well. There are many characters in this wonderful work about whom I know a lot from history, yet I read few historical fiction books about them before I began reading Tony Riches’ book. The addition of such characters as Philip Sidney and Francis Bacon make the novel more vibrant and show the intellectual elite that thrived in the cultural Elizabethan era.
I really love the evolution of Robert’s relationship with his mother, Lettice Knollys, and her second husband, Robert Dudley. I admired the evolution of Lettice’s personality and how her relationship with Robert changed over time. Reading chapters about Robert’s journeys and his military expeditions, including his unfortunate campaign in Ireland, I felt as if I had traveled with him to the Netherlands, France, and Spain, and I learned many new things. The author performed a brilliant and in-depth research into Robert’s journeys and history of other countries.
Robert’s relationship with Queen Elizabeth I of England is presented in a new light for me. The scenes featuring Elizabeth depict this great female monarch (she is my favorite English queen) close to how she was in history, but I really appreciate that Elizabeth is not portrayed as an ideal ruler – her mistakes and weaknesses of character are shown in a plausible way. It is heartbreaking to see how their initially affectionate relationship is slowly being shattered by Robert’s enemies and, sadly, by his own impulsive decisions that eventually led to his own downfall. The Cecil family are important characters. We see the bravery, honesty, and intelligence of Robert Deveraux.
Robert Devereux, Earl of Essex, is portrayed as a multi-dimensional character, with his own strength and weaknesses. He is not an ideal character, which makes him even more realistic and humane. It is easy to identify with Essex, to gain a deeper understanding of him and insight into his life. Robert is courageous, quick-thinking, honorable, and clever; yet, he is also a bit impulsive and sometimes too direct, which was not a good quality for courtiers. He demonstrates how brave and quick-thinking he is when Robert needs to sometimes regain the favor of Queen Elizabeth. However, he is not a political genius unlike the Cecil family, which eventually plays a bad joke with him. The Earl of Essex is shown as a man of his time, nevertheless he went ahead of his time and many contemporaries because he was brave enough to challenge the traditional aspects of a courtier’s life back then, never fearing to act in accordance with his principles and ideals.
May 31, 2021
The legacy of King Henry VIII has always fascinated me, but I'm not as familiar with Queen Elizabeth I in the Tudor Dynasty. Previously, I enjoyed reading Tony Riches’ novel, Owen (Book One of the Tudor Trilogy), and learning more about Owen Tudor, the founder of the Tudor Dynasty. Thus, I was excited to read his newest released book, Essex —Tudor Rebel (Book Two of the Elizabethan Series). This historical fiction novel is about the life story of Robert Devereux, the 2nd Earl of Essex and a favorite of Queen Elizabeth I. The Queen, 33 years his senior, is drawn to the tall and handsome nobleman and plays cards and dances with him in a show of courtly love.
The story begins in 1576 when the eleven-year-old Robert learns his father has mysteriously died at her Majesty's service in Ireland, leaving the family in debt. Previously, Robert overheard his parents arguing about their debt and distinctly recalls his father’s terse reply: The queen has ruined me, and no man will give me credit for any money. This memory will continue to haunt Robert as he struggles to regain his family legacy at the royal court throughout his remaining life. Unfortunately, Robert inherits the Devereux curse: A talent for my expenditure exceeds my income. The subsequent marriage of Robert's mother to Sir Robert Dudley, without the Queen’s permission, further complicates his situation at court. The novel abounds with political machinations, military expeditions, betrayal, courtly love, and scandalous liaisons. In many ways, Robert Devereux's life journey mimics his father's. Robert dies in disgrace as a rebel due to his hubris and unsound judgment.
Author Tony Riches has masterfully written a tragic Elizabethan tale that provides insight into Robert Devereux as he transforms from the Queen's favorite courtier to a rebel. The narrative is rich with vivid descriptions and crisp dialogue typical of the era. By telling the story from Robert’s perspective, the reader more readily engages with him and understands his motivations and character flaws. He often finds excuses and blames others for his military failures and swelling debts. Though the Queen gives him lucrative offices and a profitable monopoly on imported sweet wine, Robert often displays an appalling breach of conduct whenever he is insulted by the rule of an older woman. He underestimates the Queen’s tolerance for his misbehavior and his enemies' political ambitions behind the scenes. However, noblemen such as Robert Devereux often paid their own expenses on military expeditions in service of the Majesty and were never compensated. The resulting debt often placed enormous pressure on them to provide for their families. With these circumstances, it is understandable why Robert finally acted out in a rebellion. Embittered, he believes the Queen does not adequately acknowledge or pay him for his sacrifice to her, as she also did with his father.
The tale also provides insight into the interactions of the elderly Queen Elizabeth I with younger men in a show of courtly love. Though it is unlikely she had sexual affairs with Robert and other courtiers, she is extremely jealous of them, as if they were actually her lovers. She is often vindictive to her courtiers and their wives after they marry without her permission. An example is when she banishes Robert’s mother from court because she secretly married Sir Robert Dudley, one of the Queen’s former courtiers. The story also takes the reader on Robert's military adventures, including with Francis Drake's English Armada into France and Ireland and Walter Raleigh's expedition to the Azores.
I highly recommend Essex – Tudor Rebel for those interested in the Tudor Dynasty. It is a tragic Elizabethan tale steeped in political intrigue, dangerous liaisons, and military adventures.
The story begins in 1576 when the eleven-year-old Robert learns his father has mysteriously died at her Majesty's service in Ireland, leaving the family in debt. Previously, Robert overheard his parents arguing about their debt and distinctly recalls his father’s terse reply: The queen has ruined me, and no man will give me credit for any money. This memory will continue to haunt Robert as he struggles to regain his family legacy at the royal court throughout his remaining life. Unfortunately, Robert inherits the Devereux curse: A talent for my expenditure exceeds my income. The subsequent marriage of Robert's mother to Sir Robert Dudley, without the Queen’s permission, further complicates his situation at court. The novel abounds with political machinations, military expeditions, betrayal, courtly love, and scandalous liaisons. In many ways, Robert Devereux's life journey mimics his father's. Robert dies in disgrace as a rebel due to his hubris and unsound judgment.
Author Tony Riches has masterfully written a tragic Elizabethan tale that provides insight into Robert Devereux as he transforms from the Queen's favorite courtier to a rebel. The narrative is rich with vivid descriptions and crisp dialogue typical of the era. By telling the story from Robert’s perspective, the reader more readily engages with him and understands his motivations and character flaws. He often finds excuses and blames others for his military failures and swelling debts. Though the Queen gives him lucrative offices and a profitable monopoly on imported sweet wine, Robert often displays an appalling breach of conduct whenever he is insulted by the rule of an older woman. He underestimates the Queen’s tolerance for his misbehavior and his enemies' political ambitions behind the scenes. However, noblemen such as Robert Devereux often paid their own expenses on military expeditions in service of the Majesty and were never compensated. The resulting debt often placed enormous pressure on them to provide for their families. With these circumstances, it is understandable why Robert finally acted out in a rebellion. Embittered, he believes the Queen does not adequately acknowledge or pay him for his sacrifice to her, as she also did with his father.
The tale also provides insight into the interactions of the elderly Queen Elizabeth I with younger men in a show of courtly love. Though it is unlikely she had sexual affairs with Robert and other courtiers, she is extremely jealous of them, as if they were actually her lovers. She is often vindictive to her courtiers and their wives after they marry without her permission. An example is when she banishes Robert’s mother from court because she secretly married Sir Robert Dudley, one of the Queen’s former courtiers. The story also takes the reader on Robert's military adventures, including with Francis Drake's English Armada into France and Ireland and Walter Raleigh's expedition to the Azores.
I highly recommend Essex – Tudor Rebel for those interested in the Tudor Dynasty. It is a tragic Elizabethan tale steeped in political intrigue, dangerous liaisons, and military adventures.
June 23, 2021
This meticulously well-researched book surprised me in a few ways. I’ve long been a history buff and intrigued by the House of Tudor and all the various courtiers who inhabited that world. I attended elementary school in Virginia which is steeped in early colonial history. My family took full advantage of that and we spent many a weekend at various historical sites—to say nothing of school field trips. Queen Elizabeth I was one of the first monarchs I remember learning about. Of course, as a child, I had no idea of the machinations of her royal court but that foundation started a lifelong journey of amateur study of history.
I was intrigued to read a full length story about the Earl of Essex. Of course I’d heard/read, many times, he went from queen’s favorite to execution but most of what I’d read skimmed pretty quickly over his exploits and how he ended up on the scaffold. This story pulled me into his world and his psychology. The man obviously was affected by his upbringing and the early death of his father as well as being raised away from his family (which I know happened often in those days). It was as if he had something to prove, but he didn’t have the proper guidance to learn to cope with life and how to compromise to get along in the world.
His refusal to listen to orders and defy his superiors in battle was remarkable. I was amazed he lasted as long as he did with the defiance he showed to the queen. She truly had a major soft spot for him which seems very unusual based on her intolerance for foolish behavior from many others. He sure took advantage of this soft spot and, after reading this book, I think it actually emboldened him to continue making rash decisions. Perhaps if she’d taken a sterner hand with his shenanigans, things would have been very different for him.
The detail of his last-stand march on the palace was almost unbelievable. It was a powerfully written scene—and not in a good way. I kept shaking my head at his actions. Even though I knew the outcome was his execution, I had to keep asking myself what the heck he was thinking and how he thought there would be a victory for him in all his rashness. He knew Queen Elizabeth was no stranger to ordering executions, but he clearly thought he was immune to her wrath to that extent since he’d gotten away with insubordination in the past. The defiance of her authority was arrogant and astounding. This book really brought that home in a way that it never had been to me before.
The author really made this story come alive. The background of Essex’s childhood, loss of love and family, along with his need to prove himself (and going into debt over and over in that quest) and his lack of awareness led to his downfall. The author is to be commended for the way he made this story real and relevant to our time. The psychology of this character is intriguing and based on his behaviors, it was only a matter of time before he enraged the Queen past redemption. I recommend this book highly for an in-depth study of Essex and his character. It reads like a novel but was clearly based on the history and well-researched.
I was intrigued to read a full length story about the Earl of Essex. Of course I’d heard/read, many times, he went from queen’s favorite to execution but most of what I’d read skimmed pretty quickly over his exploits and how he ended up on the scaffold. This story pulled me into his world and his psychology. The man obviously was affected by his upbringing and the early death of his father as well as being raised away from his family (which I know happened often in those days). It was as if he had something to prove, but he didn’t have the proper guidance to learn to cope with life and how to compromise to get along in the world.
His refusal to listen to orders and defy his superiors in battle was remarkable. I was amazed he lasted as long as he did with the defiance he showed to the queen. She truly had a major soft spot for him which seems very unusual based on her intolerance for foolish behavior from many others. He sure took advantage of this soft spot and, after reading this book, I think it actually emboldened him to continue making rash decisions. Perhaps if she’d taken a sterner hand with his shenanigans, things would have been very different for him.
The detail of his last-stand march on the palace was almost unbelievable. It was a powerfully written scene—and not in a good way. I kept shaking my head at his actions. Even though I knew the outcome was his execution, I had to keep asking myself what the heck he was thinking and how he thought there would be a victory for him in all his rashness. He knew Queen Elizabeth was no stranger to ordering executions, but he clearly thought he was immune to her wrath to that extent since he’d gotten away with insubordination in the past. The defiance of her authority was arrogant and astounding. This book really brought that home in a way that it never had been to me before.
The author really made this story come alive. The background of Essex’s childhood, loss of love and family, along with his need to prove himself (and going into debt over and over in that quest) and his lack of awareness led to his downfall. The author is to be commended for the way he made this story real and relevant to our time. The psychology of this character is intriguing and based on his behaviors, it was only a matter of time before he enraged the Queen past redemption. I recommend this book highly for an in-depth study of Essex and his character. It reads like a novel but was clearly based on the history and well-researched.
June 1, 2021
My take on the Earl of Essex was that of a man who showed incredible potential but couldn’t quite grasp it. Perhaps he failed to overcome his own deficiencies; perhaps his expectations were too high; or maybe he was just plagued by bad luck. Good looking, aggressive, and confident, he seems to have relied on his lineage and charisma to get ahead, which only worked to a certain extent. He was always chasing his opportunities, just missing the mark. A risk-taker, he often erred from lack of good judgment.
‘How dare you!’
The shout echoed, causing even the queen’s most experienced ladies to flinch. She counted off his crimes on her long fingers, her eyes blazing. ‘You wed without our consent, to a woman beneath your station, who is not well born, who failed to provide Sir Philip Sidney with an heir, then you both conspire to conceal the truth from us!’ Robert had always known this was coming, yet he’d never seen the queen so angry, and the mention of conspiracy made his heart thump in his chest. There had been a difficult conversation with Robert Cecil, who seemed to enjoy having such power over him, but had agreed to keep their great secret – for now, at least.
He kneeled before Elizabeth, begged forgiveness, and waited to learn his fate. It didn’t surprise him that someone had revealed his secret. He’d been careful at the beginning, but Elizabeth’s courtiers loved to gossip.
Although written in third person from Essex’s point of view, I couldn’t help but think the narrator’s perceptions were flawed. Essex was never at fault. It was like reading a self-deceptive first-person account. Was this deliberate? It’s certainly an interesting way to depict a less-than-heroic protagonist. It was as though Essex never took responsibility for his own actions, all the way to the end. And maybe that’s the case. The book dashed from one event to the next, possibly the way his life unfolded. If he had used a little more forethought—if he had been a little more clever—he might have landed on his feet.
‘How dare you!’
The shout echoed, causing even the queen’s most experienced ladies to flinch. She counted off his crimes on her long fingers, her eyes blazing. ‘You wed without our consent, to a woman beneath your station, who is not well born, who failed to provide Sir Philip Sidney with an heir, then you both conspire to conceal the truth from us!’ Robert had always known this was coming, yet he’d never seen the queen so angry, and the mention of conspiracy made his heart thump in his chest. There had been a difficult conversation with Robert Cecil, who seemed to enjoy having such power over him, but had agreed to keep their great secret – for now, at least.
He kneeled before Elizabeth, begged forgiveness, and waited to learn his fate. It didn’t surprise him that someone had revealed his secret. He’d been careful at the beginning, but Elizabeth’s courtiers loved to gossip.
Although written in third person from Essex’s point of view, I couldn’t help but think the narrator’s perceptions were flawed. Essex was never at fault. It was like reading a self-deceptive first-person account. Was this deliberate? It’s certainly an interesting way to depict a less-than-heroic protagonist. It was as though Essex never took responsibility for his own actions, all the way to the end. And maybe that’s the case. The book dashed from one event to the next, possibly the way his life unfolded. If he had used a little more forethought—if he had been a little more clever—he might have landed on his feet.
May 24, 2021
Being a favorite of a queen is not all glitter and fame. Take, for example, the men who were considered the favorites of Elizabeth I. They had to deal with a queen whose temper and praise were interchangeable. One of the most famous examples of a favorite enduring the wrath of the queen was Robert Devereux, Earl of Essex. A handsome rascal who had a mountain of debt to his name, Essex tries to follow his queen’s orders while staying true to his nature. His road from loyal man to Elizabeth I, his numerous adventures, and his ultimate rebellion are masterfully told in Tony Riches’ latest Elizabethan novel, “Essex: Tudor Rebel”.
I would like to thank Tony Riches for sending me a copy of his latest novel. I enjoyed his first venture into the Elizabethan era about Sir Francis Drake. When I heard about this novel, I was excited to dive in. Obviously, I knew about the Essex Rebellion and Essex’s fall from grace, but I really wanted to know about the man behind it all.
Robert Devereux was the son of Lettice Knollys and Walter Devereux, 1st Earl of Essex. Many recognize Robert’s rather remarkable mother Lettice Knollys as she would gain the ire of Queen Elizabeth when she married the Queen’s favorite, Robert Dudley. Essex’s father Walter would die with a mountain of debt when Essex was a boy. The fact that Essex grew up as a poor Earl does not make him stray away from the lavish lifestyle that he craves. In fact, he adds to his father’s debt with his own, making it nearly impossible to pay off.
What makes him so appealing to Queen Elizabeth I is his youthful bravado. Essex is like a son to Elizabeth I. They were so close that some assumed that they were lovers. Riches puts this myth to rest in this novel. That does not mean that Essex was single like his queen. In fact, he did marry the daughter of the famous spymaster Sir Francis Walsingham. His daughter, Frances, is extremely loyal to her children and is not afraid to speak her mind when she believes that Essex is in the wrong. Essex is not exactly the most loyal of husbands as he does have affairs and illegitimate children.
Essex did not shy away from battles. He was known for his ventures in France, Cadiz, and Ireland, but his reputation would be battered like the numerous storms he encountered. He wanted the glory to restore his reputation, but his naivete and anger towards the queen who treated him like a son would lead to his downfall.
There is something magical about a new novel by Tony Riches. He is able to capture the audience’s attention with realistic scenarios, characters that jump from the pages of the past, and dialogue that is entirely believable. Essex may seem like an outlandish character, but his desire to restore his honor and to pay back his debt is understandable. There were moments where I was getting frustrated with Essex because of his poor decision-making skills, but Riches really made me feel sympathetic for this naive young rogue by the end. If you want another brilliant escape into the late Tudor age, I highly recommend you read book two in Tony Riches’ enchanting Elizabethan series, “Essex: Tudor Rebel”.
I would like to thank Tony Riches for sending me a copy of his latest novel. I enjoyed his first venture into the Elizabethan era about Sir Francis Drake. When I heard about this novel, I was excited to dive in. Obviously, I knew about the Essex Rebellion and Essex’s fall from grace, but I really wanted to know about the man behind it all.
Robert Devereux was the son of Lettice Knollys and Walter Devereux, 1st Earl of Essex. Many recognize Robert’s rather remarkable mother Lettice Knollys as she would gain the ire of Queen Elizabeth when she married the Queen’s favorite, Robert Dudley. Essex’s father Walter would die with a mountain of debt when Essex was a boy. The fact that Essex grew up as a poor Earl does not make him stray away from the lavish lifestyle that he craves. In fact, he adds to his father’s debt with his own, making it nearly impossible to pay off.
What makes him so appealing to Queen Elizabeth I is his youthful bravado. Essex is like a son to Elizabeth I. They were so close that some assumed that they were lovers. Riches puts this myth to rest in this novel. That does not mean that Essex was single like his queen. In fact, he did marry the daughter of the famous spymaster Sir Francis Walsingham. His daughter, Frances, is extremely loyal to her children and is not afraid to speak her mind when she believes that Essex is in the wrong. Essex is not exactly the most loyal of husbands as he does have affairs and illegitimate children.
Essex did not shy away from battles. He was known for his ventures in France, Cadiz, and Ireland, but his reputation would be battered like the numerous storms he encountered. He wanted the glory to restore his reputation, but his naivete and anger towards the queen who treated him like a son would lead to his downfall.
There is something magical about a new novel by Tony Riches. He is able to capture the audience’s attention with realistic scenarios, characters that jump from the pages of the past, and dialogue that is entirely believable. Essex may seem like an outlandish character, but his desire to restore his honor and to pay back his debt is understandable. There were moments where I was getting frustrated with Essex because of his poor decision-making skills, but Riches really made me feel sympathetic for this naive young rogue by the end. If you want another brilliant escape into the late Tudor age, I highly recommend you read book two in Tony Riches’ enchanting Elizabethan series, “Essex: Tudor Rebel”.
May 17, 2021
Genre – Historical. This is the second book in Tony Riche’s Elizabethan series.
The story is set in England during the later years of the reign of Queen Elizabeth 1. It follows the life of Robert Devereux, second Earl of Essex, from his father’s death in Ireland in 1576, leaving him “the poorest earl in England” to his own death in 1601.
It is peopled with a wide range of historical characters including Robert’s cold, distant and ambitious mother, his sisters Penelope and Dorothy and his younger brother Wat. Queen Elizabeth herself, an ever-present background threat, is onstage at times, along with Drake, Raleigh and the queen’s favourite, Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, who becomes the young Robert’s stepfather and friend.
Each chapter is from a different time period, chronicling every twist and turn of Robert’s life, year by year. It describes in great detail his childhood separation from his family, his increasingly difficult relations with the powerful Cecils, his warm relationships with his sisters and supporters such as valet Anthony Bagot and lifelong friend Gelly Meyrick.
As the growing boy becomes a young man, he transforms from impoverished ward of the Cecils to an ambitious young courtier who quickly supplants his stepfather in the dangerous position of the queen’s favourite.
From the first chapter, I was impressed by the everyday details of 16th century life from lace coifs and beeswax candles to manchet bread and the steps of the galliard.
“After three quick hops with alternate feet, on the word cadence, Robert jumped, landing with one leg ahead of the other, in a move called the posture.”
Every intrigue Robert participates in throughout his life is described, from the ongoing military campaigns and plotting by and against the Spanish, to the many court intrigues and rivalries of the Elizabethan court. The end result is a wealth of convincing detail which left me with a much greater knowledge of this famous nobleman, courtier and military general.
Despite being surrounded for most of his life by those who seek to guide him, Robert remains prey to others who, jealous of his position at court, seek to profit from him or to oust him. Somewhat surprisingly for the modern reader, having been born the poorest earl in England leads Robert, in the author’s portrayal of him, into a lifelong and fruitless quest to restore his fortunes. He is hampered by his inherited love of gambling, by his fondness for beautiful women, and by the cynical use the queen makes of her leading courtiers. In his anxiety to please her, Robert is led further and further into debt as he repeatedly raises troops at his own expense to fight military campaigns.
I could not fault the historical detail. The author resists the temptation of describing only the romantic side of the era. London’s Strand is already dominated by great houses, but St Paul’s cathedral has only a broken spire and the sound of bear-baiting drifts across the Thames. Yet Robert Devereux himself remained elusive. Despite the many dramatic events described, it was only in the closing scenes that I felt the emotion behind this doomed and tragic figure.
Like many established historical novelists, Tony Riches sticks closely to the facts and includes as much as possible about his subject. It might be interesting if he adopted a slightly different approach, focussing on a few of the major episodes. This would give him the opportunity of bringing each event to life, even if it means taking chances, rather than risking it being overshadowed by a swift transition to the next. This is the first novel I have read by this successful author, but it will probably not be the last.
The story is set in England during the later years of the reign of Queen Elizabeth 1. It follows the life of Robert Devereux, second Earl of Essex, from his father’s death in Ireland in 1576, leaving him “the poorest earl in England” to his own death in 1601.
It is peopled with a wide range of historical characters including Robert’s cold, distant and ambitious mother, his sisters Penelope and Dorothy and his younger brother Wat. Queen Elizabeth herself, an ever-present background threat, is onstage at times, along with Drake, Raleigh and the queen’s favourite, Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, who becomes the young Robert’s stepfather and friend.
Each chapter is from a different time period, chronicling every twist and turn of Robert’s life, year by year. It describes in great detail his childhood separation from his family, his increasingly difficult relations with the powerful Cecils, his warm relationships with his sisters and supporters such as valet Anthony Bagot and lifelong friend Gelly Meyrick.
As the growing boy becomes a young man, he transforms from impoverished ward of the Cecils to an ambitious young courtier who quickly supplants his stepfather in the dangerous position of the queen’s favourite.
From the first chapter, I was impressed by the everyday details of 16th century life from lace coifs and beeswax candles to manchet bread and the steps of the galliard.
“After three quick hops with alternate feet, on the word cadence, Robert jumped, landing with one leg ahead of the other, in a move called the posture.”
Every intrigue Robert participates in throughout his life is described, from the ongoing military campaigns and plotting by and against the Spanish, to the many court intrigues and rivalries of the Elizabethan court. The end result is a wealth of convincing detail which left me with a much greater knowledge of this famous nobleman, courtier and military general.
Despite being surrounded for most of his life by those who seek to guide him, Robert remains prey to others who, jealous of his position at court, seek to profit from him or to oust him. Somewhat surprisingly for the modern reader, having been born the poorest earl in England leads Robert, in the author’s portrayal of him, into a lifelong and fruitless quest to restore his fortunes. He is hampered by his inherited love of gambling, by his fondness for beautiful women, and by the cynical use the queen makes of her leading courtiers. In his anxiety to please her, Robert is led further and further into debt as he repeatedly raises troops at his own expense to fight military campaigns.
I could not fault the historical detail. The author resists the temptation of describing only the romantic side of the era. London’s Strand is already dominated by great houses, but St Paul’s cathedral has only a broken spire and the sound of bear-baiting drifts across the Thames. Yet Robert Devereux himself remained elusive. Despite the many dramatic events described, it was only in the closing scenes that I felt the emotion behind this doomed and tragic figure.
Like many established historical novelists, Tony Riches sticks closely to the facts and includes as much as possible about his subject. It might be interesting if he adopted a slightly different approach, focussing on a few of the major episodes. This would give him the opportunity of bringing each event to life, even if it means taking chances, rather than risking it being overshadowed by a swift transition to the next. This is the first novel I have read by this successful author, but it will probably not be the last.
June 3, 2021
Essex – Tudor Rebel follows the life of Robert Devereux, the 2nd Earl of Essex, from the age of 11 years, when he inherits the earldom from his father to become one of the poorest earls in the land, to his execution for treason in 1601.
Essex's financial woes were to plague him throughout his life due to his own mismanagement, but mainly by Queen Elizabeth's propensity to not recompense those who had made massive outlays on her behalf to protect her realm.
Essex could have sensibly taken advantage of his position as the queen's favourite to regain his family's fortunes, but he was impatient and hoped that military service would bring him instant fame and reward. Unfortunately, he had mixed results. The only certainty was that his debts continued to grow.
Breaking point came after his disastrous campaign in 1599 as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland where he brokered a truce with the Irish rebels and left his post against the queen's wishes. His financial situation became more dire when his punishment included the loss of the lucrative sweet wines monopoly, his main source of income. Essex's subsequent actions lead to him being branded a traitor. Sadly for him, he was unable to reconcile with Queen Elizabeth I.
I must stress that there is much more to this novel than the Earl of Essex's financial woes, although these were responsible for many of the decisions he made. What intrigued me most was the relationship he had with Queen Elizabeth I. Tony Riches presents this as a mother and son relationship rather than one of lovers. It explains her indulgence of his bad behaviour - her tolerance of his disrespect and disobedience. Until his final act of rebellion, their relationship was one of estrangement and reconciliation, and I believe Essex thought he would be pardoned one more time.
Tony Riches has once again proven his talent for writing informative and entertaining fictional biographies. I did enjoy the sympathetic portrayal of Essex. Like so many who sought fame and fortune during those times, he fell foul of political intrigue, his own aspirations, and the whims of his queen. Although I knew the outcome for Essex, I was still saddened by it. However, what did surprise me was that the fate of Sir Gelli Meyrick, the Earl's faithful Welsh supporter, touched me more.
Essex- Tudor Rebel is an excellent addition to The Elizabethan Series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book as a participant in a blog tour.
*https://adarngoodread.blogspot.com
Essex's financial woes were to plague him throughout his life due to his own mismanagement, but mainly by Queen Elizabeth's propensity to not recompense those who had made massive outlays on her behalf to protect her realm.
Essex could have sensibly taken advantage of his position as the queen's favourite to regain his family's fortunes, but he was impatient and hoped that military service would bring him instant fame and reward. Unfortunately, he had mixed results. The only certainty was that his debts continued to grow.
Breaking point came after his disastrous campaign in 1599 as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland where he brokered a truce with the Irish rebels and left his post against the queen's wishes. His financial situation became more dire when his punishment included the loss of the lucrative sweet wines monopoly, his main source of income. Essex's subsequent actions lead to him being branded a traitor. Sadly for him, he was unable to reconcile with Queen Elizabeth I.
I must stress that there is much more to this novel than the Earl of Essex's financial woes, although these were responsible for many of the decisions he made. What intrigued me most was the relationship he had with Queen Elizabeth I. Tony Riches presents this as a mother and son relationship rather than one of lovers. It explains her indulgence of his bad behaviour - her tolerance of his disrespect and disobedience. Until his final act of rebellion, their relationship was one of estrangement and reconciliation, and I believe Essex thought he would be pardoned one more time.
Tony Riches has once again proven his talent for writing informative and entertaining fictional biographies. I did enjoy the sympathetic portrayal of Essex. Like so many who sought fame and fortune during those times, he fell foul of political intrigue, his own aspirations, and the whims of his queen. Although I knew the outcome for Essex, I was still saddened by it. However, what did surprise me was that the fate of Sir Gelli Meyrick, the Earl's faithful Welsh supporter, touched me more.
Essex- Tudor Rebel is an excellent addition to The Elizabethan Series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book as a participant in a blog tour.
*https://adarngoodread.blogspot.com
June 4, 2021
ESSEX – Tudor Rebel
.
By Tony Riches
(Book Two of the Elizabethan Series)
@tonyriches.author @coffeepotbookclu
The life of Robert Devereux the 2nd Earl of Essex, comes to life through the meticulous research and seamless narration of Mr Tony Ritches.
Essex – Tudor Rebel is the second installment in the Elizabethan Series from Tony Riches.
Robert Devereux is the son of Lettice Knollys and Walter Devereux, 1st Earl of Essex.
Robert Essex’s father dies when he is still a boy, leaving him his fathers’s debts. His mother Lettice Knollys, does the unthinkable shortly after her 1st husband passing, she marries the Queen’s favorite, Robert Dudley, without the queens knowledge.
We follow the young Robert in this coming of age storyline, from his days as impoverished ward. To his first love and his days at college, and his transformation into a young couturier with a promising future.
The authors uniquely-descriptive prose gives the reader a brilliantly detailed version of this very captivating figure in English history. I have to say there is something special in Tony Riches writing that sinks the reader within the pages of his wonderful absorbing books. Right from the beginning you are pulled in and the author brings to life the era of Queen Elizabeth.
Richly detailed with atmospheric imagery that catapults the reader into this time in history. The pace was quick, and Riches ability to hold the readers attention makes for a highly compulsive read here, one that I found I was quite invested in and could not put down. The story is in first person; therefore, it’s almost like you are living the story with the protagonist. The dialogue is masterly done, and makes a notable impression on the reader.
Essex is a notorious figure that rises to the favorite of the aging Queen Elizabeth. He is flamboyant and ambitious. Through the authors narrative voice, his turbulent and fascinating experiences come to life in this thought provoking and page turner of a book.
An exceptionally written historical fiction!
.
.
By Tony Riches
(Book Two of the Elizabethan Series)
@tonyriches.author @coffeepotbookclu
The life of Robert Devereux the 2nd Earl of Essex, comes to life through the meticulous research and seamless narration of Mr Tony Ritches.
Essex – Tudor Rebel is the second installment in the Elizabethan Series from Tony Riches.
Robert Devereux is the son of Lettice Knollys and Walter Devereux, 1st Earl of Essex.
Robert Essex’s father dies when he is still a boy, leaving him his fathers’s debts. His mother Lettice Knollys, does the unthinkable shortly after her 1st husband passing, she marries the Queen’s favorite, Robert Dudley, without the queens knowledge.
We follow the young Robert in this coming of age storyline, from his days as impoverished ward. To his first love and his days at college, and his transformation into a young couturier with a promising future.
The authors uniquely-descriptive prose gives the reader a brilliantly detailed version of this very captivating figure in English history. I have to say there is something special in Tony Riches writing that sinks the reader within the pages of his wonderful absorbing books. Right from the beginning you are pulled in and the author brings to life the era of Queen Elizabeth.
Richly detailed with atmospheric imagery that catapults the reader into this time in history. The pace was quick, and Riches ability to hold the readers attention makes for a highly compulsive read here, one that I found I was quite invested in and could not put down. The story is in first person; therefore, it’s almost like you are living the story with the protagonist. The dialogue is masterly done, and makes a notable impression on the reader.
Essex is a notorious figure that rises to the favorite of the aging Queen Elizabeth. He is flamboyant and ambitious. Through the authors narrative voice, his turbulent and fascinating experiences come to life in this thought provoking and page turner of a book.
An exceptionally written historical fiction!
.
May 29, 2021
I really enjoy Tony Riches' writing. He has a way of bringing the world of the Tudor court to life that makes these historical figures who lived over 400 years ago seem very real in the present. Robert Devereux, Earl of Essex, is an intriguing character with plenty of history. All I really knew about him was the end of his life - the rebellion that resulted in his execution. This book opened my eyes to some of his earlier life.
The story follows him from his childhood and the death of his father, to his death by execution. It explores scandal, romance, and treason. It features a wide range of real historical characters along Essex, like Elizabeth I, Sir Francis Walsingham, William Cecil Lord Burghley, Robert Cecil, Sir Francis Drake, and Sir Philip Sidney. These characters come together to create a richly detailed storyline with plenty going on which keeps the story moving.
What is particularly interesting for me in this story is to see the development of Essex from a boy who loses his father at a young age and has to step suddenly and unexpectedly into his shoes, to the Queen's favourite at court, to an attainted rebel who ends on the scaffold. The story is full of ups and downs and makes you want to keep reading.
If you don't know much about key characters in Tudor history, then I would really recommend reading books by Tony Riches because he introduces them without too much fuss, but with enough detail to bring them to life, and makes you want to find out more about them. I can't wait to fill in the gaps and read the ones I haven't read yet.
The story follows him from his childhood and the death of his father, to his death by execution. It explores scandal, romance, and treason. It features a wide range of real historical characters along Essex, like Elizabeth I, Sir Francis Walsingham, William Cecil Lord Burghley, Robert Cecil, Sir Francis Drake, and Sir Philip Sidney. These characters come together to create a richly detailed storyline with plenty going on which keeps the story moving.
What is particularly interesting for me in this story is to see the development of Essex from a boy who loses his father at a young age and has to step suddenly and unexpectedly into his shoes, to the Queen's favourite at court, to an attainted rebel who ends on the scaffold. The story is full of ups and downs and makes you want to keep reading.
If you don't know much about key characters in Tudor history, then I would really recommend reading books by Tony Riches because he introduces them without too much fuss, but with enough detail to bring them to life, and makes you want to find out more about them. I can't wait to fill in the gaps and read the ones I haven't read yet.
June 18, 2021
The Earl of Essex. Well, what can I say? I began this book knowing full well the story of this high-spirited ambitious young man fawning after a much older Queen Elizabeth I, but I have to say that Tony Riches has excelled in really giving life to this notorious man in history. There were times I truly felt a sense of compassion and empathy for him, for his vainglorious attempts to prove himself in the eyes of the Queen, and then his failure to learn from his mistakes. Over and over and over, again. He was a man on the brink of glory, but never reached the clouds, ultimately falling into the precipice of his own making.
I loved this book and it is one I could read again and again. This is the first time I have read any of Tony Riches books and I know it won’t be the last. All of his books are on my to-read list and I foresee a binge read in the near future! Tony Riches’ books are a must read for anyone who wants an excellent historical biography about figures in the Tudor era.
I received a copy for an honest review from The Coffee Pot Book Club.
I loved this book and it is one I could read again and again. This is the first time I have read any of Tony Riches books and I know it won’t be the last. All of his books are on my to-read list and I foresee a binge read in the near future! Tony Riches’ books are a must read for anyone who wants an excellent historical biography about figures in the Tudor era.
I received a copy for an honest review from The Coffee Pot Book Club.
April 22, 2021
This is the fourth novel by Tony Riches that I've read. His stories about the Tudor dynasty are wonderful tales that transport you in time and place. As you read Essex - Tudor Rebel you will experience the slog of battle, sailing on the high seas, the life of a courtier, and the sometimes deadly intrigue surrounding Elizabeth I. What a time it was! Wars, spies, palace intrigue, lovers, family feuds, conspiracies, and a monarch who capriciously alternates between approval and disapproval - the drama increases as Robert Devereux's life unfolds. Highly recommended. To learn more about Tony Riches' novels, check out my blog: https://awriterofhistory.com/2021/04/...
July 8, 2021
Another Excellent Book
I really have enjoyed Tony Riches’ books. They are well written, and keep you engaged. I also love that he cares enough about his writing to ensure that they flow and are enjoyable and no typos! My favorite was probably Jasper Tudor but all of his books have been 5 stars in my opinion.
I really have enjoyed Tony Riches’ books. They are well written, and keep you engaged. I also love that he cares enough about his writing to ensure that they flow and are enjoyable and no typos! My favorite was probably Jasper Tudor but all of his books have been 5 stars in my opinion.
February 19, 2024
I loved this book! I knew the story of him as an adult,but the backstory was amazing. Narration by Nigel Peever was excellent.The 'experience sound' also really made it special. I was given this book free for an honest review.
April 24, 2021
A brilliant story of Robert of Essex
November 29, 2021
Excellent read
Enjoyed this book very much the author has researched his subject very well if I enjoy history this is the book for you
Enjoyed this book very much the author has researched his subject very well if I enjoy history this is the book for you
October 28, 2023
Essex- Tudor Rebel
Interesting book about a charismatic man who was in queen Elizabeth the first’s inner circle. He proves that getting too close to the flame can be dangerous.
Interesting book about a charismatic man who was in queen Elizabeth the first’s inner circle. He proves that getting too close to the flame can be dangerous.
December 6, 2024
I liked this book.
I thought it was well written and kept my interest through out. My guess is that Robert was spoiled and being spoiled only hurts one.
I thought it was well written and kept my interest through out. My guess is that Robert was spoiled and being spoiled only hurts one.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews