The York King

by Amy Licence

1464. Family conflicts, Lancaster against York, the fight for the English throne continues.

During the early years of his reign, Edward IV of York battles to bring peace and stability to the country, as Henry Beaufort, Duke of Somerset, raises support in the north, attempting to return the Lancastrian king, Henry VI, to the throne.

With uprisings imminent, the Earl of Warwick pursues a marriage alliance with France, determined to bring about a friendship between the two countries and suppress support for Lancaster.

Unhappy with the match, Edward meets Elizabeth Woodville, daughter of a squire, and marries in a secret ceremony. With verbal agreements broken, friendships damaged and old divisions reappearing, Edward finds himself facing new enemies much closer to home.

Set during the Wars of the Roses, this is the second volume in the York trilogy.

Genres: Historical Fiction, British Literature, Historical, Fiction

358 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 3, 2022

About the author

Medieval and Tudor historian, with a particular interest in women's lives and experiences, also dabble in Modernism. I write fiction and non-fiction, also journalism for The Guardian, BBC History website, The New Statesman, The Huffington Post, The English Review and The London Magazine. I appeared in TV documentaries "The Real White Queen and her Rivals" and "The Private Lives of the Tudors." Fellow of the Royal Historical Society.

Reviews

[lifelonghistorylover · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first novel I have read by Amy Licence, I am a huge fan of her non-fiction books, my favourite being Edward IV & Elizabeth Woodville: a True Romance, so I jumped at the chance to read her new book The York King, which is the second of a trilogy. This book focuses on the meeting of Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville, Edward’s betrayal by his brother and Warwick, and the fight to win back the English throne.

The York King begins in 1464 and finishes in 1471. By the end of the book, Edward seems to have matured. He now has a wife and children, and he’s experienced deep betrayal at the hands of his brother and Warwick, which results in a bloody battle to regain the crown. Even though I knew exactly what was going to happen, I still thoroughly enjoyed this book. I will never tire of this story. Amy managed to keep the story fresh and bring it back to life. All the characters were written perfectly, Edward is exactly how I imagined him to have been. The York King is wonderfully descriptive, I could clearly imagine everything, as if I was there!

This factual novel would be excellent for those who are new to the Wars of the Roses and the House of York. Fiction can be a lot easier to digest for people who don’t like heavier going non-fiction. By sticking to the facts, Amy proves that the history is interesting enough on its own, without the need of any extra additions or fluff!

I highly recommend The York King, I read it in a couple of sittings and didn’t want it to end! I am going to read the first book and I eagerly await the final book in the series. 

* Gifted in exchange for an honest review

[Michaela · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second book in the House of York series is great historical fiction, this time set during the reign of Edward IV. I liked the detailed description of political intrigues, battle scenes and everyday life. Exciting read for those interested in the War of Roses with some personal moments of his relationship to his wife and his family. Some parts were quite unlikely for this time though.
Thanks to Lume Books and Netgalley for an ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review.

[Elizabeth McFarland · Rating 4 out of 5]

The York King is an immensely enjoyable book about the reign of King Edward IV . A definite must read for anyone who enjoys reading about The War of the Roses. Amy Licence brings the time period to life with vivid details of battles and of every day life. This is a truly gripping portrayal of a tormultous time in history. I enjoyed this book very much.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Jeannie Zelos · Rating 3 out of 5]

The York King, House of York Book 2, Amy Licence

Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews

Genre: Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery & Thrillers

I love historical fiction, I'm more familiar with the Tudors but recently I've been delving into the earlier days of this period, the York/Lancaster troubles.
I enjoyed this book but it didn't hook me in as I expected. I found I kept putting it aside as I was bogged down in details of who, and why and how, and the politics. I want to read all that of course, but I like it to be a little more on the personal level. At times I felt I was back in school history lessons being berated by Miss Whitworth for getting names or dates wrong....I kept coming back though and it proved an interesting read though I skipped many of the heavier bits ( blush).
That's my personal issue of course, this book is perfect for those that prefer a different approach. Authors can't please everybody.

Stars: Three, a thought provoking read, especially on the subject of inherited kings, and rights to rule, but a little heavy for me personally.

Arc via Netgally and publishers

[Megan Leathers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I obtained this eBook as an ARC from NetGalley. I am a huge fan of writings of the War of the Roses and this second volume of the York trilogy hit the spot! For fans of Philippa Gregory's "The White Queen", you will be familiar with many of the characters and although the perspective of women is used, more often it is the men and their battles written about. If you thought you liked Edward of York in the first volume, this will cement your admiration for him. Considering all the hardships and betrayals he had to endure to bring stability to England especially after the loss of his father and close brother Edmund.
Even if you are not familiar with this time in English history this book will keep your interest. It will also convince you that "heir to the throne" is never as simple as it seems.
Definitely check this out when it is published, and if you havent' yet, read the first volume "Son of York". I can't wait for the third volume!

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

The York King by Amy Licence is a great historical fiction that is the second book in the House of York series. This takes us yet again into heart of Edward IV’s reign and the War of the Roses.

This book starts off where the last leaves off…1464 and Edward IV has been king of England for about four years. This book covers 1464-1471. It covers the aspects of Edward attempting to solidify his claim and position. It also includes his meeting and marriage of Elizabeth Woodville, further ups and downs as many attempt to deceive and grasp for power, and ends with the downfall of the Earl of Warwick.

One does not need to read the previous book to easily follow along.

This would be a good book for those that have not delved into the fascinating War of the Roses ie dueling House of Lancaster and House of York time period. For those that have, such as myself, this is entertaining but nothing new to add.

4/5 stars

Thank you NG and Lume Books for this arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately (as of 12/15/21 no Bb listing has been created and link will be updated when it is available) and will post it to my Amazon and B&N accounts upon publication on 3/3/22.

[Helen Childs · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you’re a fan of Philippa Gregory, then you’ll love this. Looking at the wonderful history of the War of the Roses, this book focuses more on Edward IV and his reign. Really well written with great characterisation and dialogue, I felt completely absorbed within this historical fiction. Many thanks to Net Galley for this ARC.

[Rosie Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read action packed and fast paced

[tejal · Rating 2 out of 5]

The York King was a book that held a lot of promise for me given that it focused on one of my favourite areas of history (the Plantagenets) and on a king that I've previously enjoyed reading about: Edward IV. It started well with Edward's flirtation with Lady Eleanor Butler, something not normally covered in that period of historical fiction, which I thought was a refreshing take on the genre. I particularly enjoyed the sowing of the seeds for what I presume will come in the third book of the trilogy: the exposure of his secret marriage/pre-contract with Lady Eleanor.

However, the rest of the book paled in comparison to the starting chapters. After leaving Eleanor to fight against his enemies, he establishes himself as the king a few years later and comes across Elizabeth Woodville. The story goes that she was a great beauty and that Edward IV fell in love with her upon first sight to the point that he insisted on marrying her. It's a great historical romance in its own right as his marriage is being fixed with Bona of Savoy, the sister to the French king, to promote an English alliance whilst Elizabeth is the widow of a Lancastrian supporter with two sons of her own. Yet despite this backdrop, the author makes the romance dry and uninteresting even when describing their secret marriage. There's no spark to their relationship and in truth, this is something from which the whole book suffers.

Edward is given somewhat of a personality, yet the rest of the characters act as mere props to propel his character forward. None of the relationships felt meaningful, not his marriage to Elizabeth nor his brotherly bond with George and Richard. Even Cecily, Proud Cis, is dull and her relationship with Edward is non-existent. It's such a shame because the dynamics between the House of York are one of my favourite things to read about in historical fiction. Moreover, it makes it hard to empathise with Edward later in the book when George turns traitor and sides with Warwick because there's no nuance to his character.

I appreciated the author's level of research and details conveyed within this novel especially when describing the fashions. In particular, I loved her description of the hennin caps - it was very visual! However, I found the story suffered from over-explanation when it came to military scenes which bogged the novel down.

As a whole, it's an average story with some enjoyable elements so the best credit I can give is that I liked it at parts.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A historical novel which opens in 1464 is always going to be a lively read, if only because it is set in the reign of Edward IV, who represented the house of York in the “Wars of the Roses”. This is the second book in a trilogy, but it reads well as a standalone book which is how I read it. Edward is a young if experienced king, victor of battles and a generous leader surrounded by friends. His relationships with family, friends and most crucially women forms the underlying theme of this well written book. The author is obviously very familiar with this period in history; there is a lot of research behind this novel but it is never allowed to interfere with the strong narrative. This is far from a novel of battles and military matters, but it looks at the cost of loyalty and some of the complexities of a situation where a king is too unwell to be on the throne, but is manipulated by various determined opponents to Edward’s rule. Part of the story is told from the perspective of the women that are close to him in this period, most especially the determined Elizabeth Woodville and her family. With the powerful and volatile Earl of Warwick on the scene, the marriage awakens jealousies and ambitions that will rock the country and make everyone reassess their allegiances. This is a powerful book which is an enthralling read, and I was very pleased to have the opportunity to read and review it.

The book opens with Edward and his friends arriving at the house of the new Duke of Norfolk. This is not a social call however; as the Foreword informs us, Henry Beaufort, Duke of Somerset, has recently abandoned the king’s close company and travelled north, seemingly determined to lead another rising against Edward. This is a violation of the close friendship that Edward felt he had enjoyed with the other young man, but Beaufort’s father had always opposed Edward’s, and memories are significant at this turbulent time. Edward encounters relatives of his mother Cecily, and one in particular takes his interest. Eleanor is a young widow, dispossessed of her late husband’s lands, and holds attractions for at least one man. Edward’s style of kingship is generous, even to those who are not wealthy, powerful or influential, which deeply annoys his cousin Warwick, who insists on seeing the bigger picture and trying to ensure political alliances, especially in terms of securing Edward’s marriage to a royal bride from France. Edward is aware that he must marry and ensure a male heir for the York interest, but is not keen on an arranged match. This is especially so when he encounters Elizabeth of the Woodville family, another young widow whose two sons have not inherited their father’s lands. A simple plea for her boys’ interests becomes a mutual attraction that will change many people’s plans, and indeed change history.

This book covers a period of time where Edward’s reign is threatened on more than one occasion, and where women have to act decisively even though they are limited in many ways. As with any novel set in this period there are many characters who share the same first name, but Licence elegantly uses titles and other ways of avoiding confusion. This is a fascinating book of an exciting period in English history, seen from a very human perspective, and I recommend it to those who enjoy historical novels.

[HalKid2 · Rating 3 out of 5]

NOTE: I was given early access to this novel in exchange for writing an impartial review. Thank you Lume Books. Scheduled Publication: March 3, 2022

This historical novel-- Book Two in author Amy Licence's HOUSE OF YORK trilogy -- focuses on a chunk of the Wars of the Roses: British history between 1464 (when King Edward IV of England had been on the throne for three years) until 1471 (when he defeats King Henry VI for the second and final time). I'd award it 3.5 stars if I could, though not four.

The book begins at a moment I have seldom seen included in novels about this period. It's the moment when 22-year-old King Edward IV meets Lady Eleanor Talbot and promises to marry her. If you know Edward's story you know that this promise becomes VERY significant after Edward dies in 1483. Because at this time period, a promise to marriage was as legally binding as the ceremony itself. So, IF Edward did promise to marry Eleanor, he was not free to marry Elizabeth Woodville in 1464, making ALL ten of his children with Elizabeth illegitimate and unable to inherit the throne.

Included in this novel is the story of how Edward meets Elizabeth Woodville, how he marries her against the wishes of his chief advisor (Richard, Earl of Warwick), and how the ambitious Warwick and Edward's younger brother George (Duke of Clarence) then continue the Wars of the Roses in an increasingly desperate attempt to wield power. It's an interesting story, in part because it also involves the King Edward's own struggle as he weighs loyalty to family against wise policy.

The issue I had with the book was the level of detail the very knowledgeable Amy Licence includes about daily life at this time period. It was just too much for me and I felt it made the story overly dense, even slow. At times, it felt more like part historical fiction and part history textbook. As a journalist, historian, and award-winning author, Licence has written many, many books about medieval and Tudor England. And I felt that she simply tried too hard to include too much of her impressive knowledge into her descriptions of meals, battles, and situations. I personally would have been happier if she'd spent more time with the internal psychology of Edward, Warwick, and George -- who are for me three of the most fascinating characters from history.

[Lisa Bristow · Rating 5 out of 5]

If, like me, you rub your hands in glee at ANOTHER book about the Plantagenet/Tudor era you won’t be disappointed with this.

The second in the House of York series, The York King offers plots, intrigue, betrayal, treason, romance and a lot of battles. And that last item is what makes this series different to many novels based in this historical period.

The book covers the period when Edward VI becomes king and follows him and his family as their fortunes rise and fall. Rather than focusing mainly on the experience of the royal women of the time, which we see in many wonderful books of this era (eg from Philippa Gregory and Alison Weir), Amy Licence has chosen to focus mainly on the men. The women do get a look-in, and some chapters are from their perspective, but she writes primarily from the perspective of Edward, the King in question and Earl of Warwick, his right-hand man.

I found the first few pages a bit too heavily descriptive, and if you do too, don’t give in! You’ll soon start to see the challenges Edward faces from his rival Lancastrians, as well as from some surprising quarters (if you’re not familiar with the history I shan’t reveal too much!).

If you’ve not read Son of York – the first in the House of York series - I recommend you do so first. It’s not essential if you’re familiar with the period, but Licence spends care and time creating the characters you will meet in this book.

What I really liked: the book is pacy, and the action moves swiftly. The characters are believable, as is the dialogue between them.

What I would change: apart from struggling through the description in the first few pages, I loved much of the book. The end came a bit suddenly for me. I would have liked to have seen some other scenes between the final battles. Perhaps it was because I just didn’t want it to end?

Thanks to NetGalley and Lume Books for the Ebook.

[Jaffareadstoo · Rating 5 out of 5]

If there is one period in history where I would like to go back to be a fly on the wall it would be to spend time at the court of Edward IV. This charismatic young man had all the attributes of a King and was certainly no stranger when it came to facing danger. In this second volume of the House of York trilogy we meet Edward when he is keeping a somewhat tenuous hold on his newly acquired crown. Political maneuverings notwithstanding this is a time of great change. The old Lancastrian order is in decline and even three years into Edward's reign there are still schemers who would prefer to see the red rose of the House of Lancaster prevail again over the white rose of the House of York.

Although I haven't read the first book in the series I was easily able to pick up the story and soon became engrossed in the political, and courtly, shenanigans which makes this such a vibrant time in history. Concentrating on the key moments in Edward IV's early reign we start to build up a picture of just how momentous his time on the throne was and how he sought to bring peace and prosperity to a country which had been bedeviled by war. There were some nice romantic interludes, it was interesting to see Edward's clandestine relationship with Eleanor Butler mentioned and of course his passionate, and sometimes stormy, marriage with Elizabeth Woodville is expertly brought to life..

The York King is a very readable account of the early tumultuous years of Edward IV's reign. Beautifully written, and intricately researched, the steam of battle and the whispers of intrigue bring the history of the age alive in a vibrant and imaginative way. I felt that the story ended in a perfect place to take the story forward in the final book in the trilogy.

[Boadicea · Rating 3 out of 5]

I rated this 3.5 stars. There are some spoilers in here, so maybe don't continue reading if you haven't read the book, or don't know about the events of 1460-1471ish.
While the Wars of the Roses is my favourite time period, there are little niggles I had with this book. Firstly, I'm sure it's difficult to write a book when you know how everything ends, but this the author does see everything as a forewarning, or in its darkest possible light, so much so, that at times Edward looks a bit like a gullible fool, rather than a loving brother.
Moreover, Edward and Elizabeth seem to have been one of the great love stories of the age. They met, fought, fell in love, had children. Almost all of that seems to have been erased or ignored in this very bland version of events.
Also, while of course anyone looking back for over 500 years must take a few liberties with thoughts and characters there are some scenes and feelings that seem rather out of character for the people participating, and historical facts are somewhat skewed at times to bend accepted beliefs of those times (as in the Elizabeth meeting).
On the whole I quite enjoyed the book, but a lot of it must be taken with a pinch of salt, which is fine as this is historical fiction, but don't try to write an essay using it as a source!

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed book 1 so was looking forward to reading this, the second volume in the York trilogy. Set in 1464, during the Wars of the Roses, King Edward IV has now reigned for 3 years. A great historical novel, brilliantly researched and a great read but I would definitely recommend reading book one first. The book is very descriptive and there are quite a lot of battle scenes, but these are interspersed with a bit of romance, a lot of intrigue and plenty of betrayal.

Briefly, the battle for the throne continues, Lancaster against York with the Duke of Somerset, lured back to his former comrades, leading the fight to return Henry VI to the throne. With both sides trying to raise armies Warwick travels to France to arrange a marriage to thwart the allies of Henry but unhappy with this Edward meets Elizabeth Woodville and marries her in secret.

Although most chapters are written from the POV of Warwick and King Edward IV some are written from the perspective of the women. Excellently written, a fast paced read with great dialogue and I am really looking to reading the final book ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m married to a voracious reader…when I used to lose him in the multi-story used bookstore in our town, I could always find him in either military history or historical fiction. He reads EVERYTHING he can find about medieval history, both fiction and non. And I have TRIED to appreciate the genre, but haven’t gotten there. But I was happy to get a copy of The York King by Amy License from Lume Books and NetGalley in exchange for this honest review.

TBH, I was lost righIt away, but after realizing that this is Book 2 in her House of York series, I HAD to buy Son of York, which is book 1. That helped a lot!

The story takes place in the early years of the reign of Edward IV of York, as he tries to stave off the efforts of Henry Beaufort, Duke of Somerset, to return (Lancastrian) King Henry VI to the throne. Edward meets and secretly marries Elizabeth Woodville, a squire’s daughter…and the story continues with Edward facing a raft of new enemies. Looking forward to Book 3 in the series. I’m not hooked on the genre, but I have an open mind! Four stars.

[Angi Plant · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book very much. It’s told with the feelings and thoughts of the King and those around him as most historical fiction of the period is. But this gives so much more honest detail. Such as an Earl being asked for advice which isn’t unusual. Except we realise he’s 14.

Suddenly it turns these characters into real, living breathing people. It doesn’t show the King as a perfect person, but a fallible man. A man who falls in love with Elizabeth Woodville. The Queen who wasn’t planned for.

I’ve read a lot, and watched a lot of history from this period and the women from this period were so strong. They were women to be feared and admired. This book shows how the friendship between Edward and his closest courtiers was damaged irreparably when he wouldn’t cast Elizabeth aside. It’s not saying he was perfect. He was a womaniser and he had faults, but I feel this is an honest look at the people and the time in which it was set.

With thanks to Anne Cater, Lume Books and the author for the advanced reading copy of this book.

[Megan Leathers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I obtained this eBook as an ARC from NetGalley. I am a huge fan of writings of the War of the Roses and this second volume of the York trilogy hit the spot! For fans of Philippa Gregory's "The White Queen", you will be familiar with many of the characters and although the perspective of women is used, more often it is the men and their battles written about. If you thought you liked Edward of York in the first volume, this will cement your admiration for him. Considering all the hardships and betrayals he had to endure to bring stability to England especially after the loss of his father and close brother Edmund.
Even if you are not familiar with this time in English history this book will keep your interest. It will also convince you that "heir to the throne" is never as simple as it seems.
Definitely check this out when it is published, and if you havent' yet, read the first volume "Son of York". I can't wait for the third volume!

[Anya Leonard · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book. An era of English royal history that I was familiar with, the war of the roses and the fight between the house of York and the house of Lancaster. The multi faceted look - both at the love side and the war side was wonderful. The author deftly was able to encompass both the home life of the king and the treachery that surrounded a large part of his reign. I didn’t imagine that I would enjoy this book quite as much as I did, not having as much of a frame of reference for it. However, it proved to be just as enjoyable as more notable and well-known periods (Tudor, Victorian). I highly recommend it if you enjoy well researched and animated books that bring the past to life! This ebook was provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[ATM · Rating 3 out of 5]

The York King by Amy Licence is an interesting book with strong female characters. I really enjoyed that all the women in the book are depicted as individuals, with different ambitions, hopes and fears and all doing their best to protect themselves and their children in that male-dominated world.
I found it difficult to read sometimes as the book came in one long text without many paragraphs (but I suspect this was just because it was an ARC, and this will be fixed before publication). I also feel that this period of history has been covered many times by other authors by Philippa Gregory and others so I didn't feel that I learned anything new. However Amy Licence is a great writer so I look forward to seeing if she explores any other historical periods in future books.

[The Page Ladies Book Club · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great addition to this trilogy! It's beautifully written, a great pace & with characters we are all familiar with! This was also a unique read for me. I have read a few books around the war of roses but there hasn't been any that show King Edward as a child until adulthood. So I rather enjoyed that change! The details are also wonderful! From the day to day activities, to the battles, to the surrounding areas vivid details paint a lovely picture! And of course there is a bit of romance! I truly enjoyed this series so far & can't wait to see what the next book will bring!

Thank you Random Things Tours and Amy License for sharing this lovely story with me!

[Barbara Dougherty Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heads up this is the second volume in the House of York trilogy. I had to go back and read book on to follow book two, so that being said make sure you read book one first or you will be lost. I really did enjoy this book and am thankful to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review. These are my favorite types of books and I tend to get lost in them. I love the battles between kings and the whole idea if nobility. I find it rather romantic. I look forward to the final book in the trilogy.

[Katrina · Rating 1 out of 5]

Massively disappointed with this book. As a huge fan of Historical Fiction, particularly set in this era of the Wars of the Roses (and leading up to the Tudor takeover), this should have been my idea of perfect! However, the writing is incredibly over-the-top with its descriptiveness, the author clearly knows her stuff, but it was like she was trying to impart every single piece of her knowledge into every situation and/or place. It was too much, it detracted away from the plot and made the pacing far too slow. Small but fairly important errors crept into the writing as well, my main irritation being 'Great-Aunt Katherine'...no, his mother's sister is his aunt, no 'great' about it!

[Chasity Gaines · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thrilling historical of The York King

Wonderfully written, sharp and vivid. Young King Edward loves the women, but he ends up falling for the beautiful Woodville daughter, Elizabeth. A woman from common and royal blood. She offers Edward comfort and style as his Queen but the peace that has been hard won is thrown topsy-turvy as Warwick tries all in his power to overthrow the ungrateful, strong-willed King. Love, war, and family are synonymous with the York reign. Highly recommended read.

[Jane Sattler · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lot of Battles

Although beautifully described, all the fighting, and the battles in this book left me with a feeling to take off one star. I understand that it was important to detail all the fighting and strife that Edward and his supporters had to go through. However, it was just hard to keep reading after one battle and another. I am going to read the next book. I’ve already got it on my bookshelf. I like the way this author is able to describe things like the fog, the mist, the smell of the gardens. She is remarkably good at painting pictures in your mind.

[Cynthia Guerra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC. I love a good history book. Though I already know the outcome, I was still captivated by the story. I was happy this book focused mainly on the relationship between husband and wife and king and his brother . Many other books on the subject delved into the rumors of witchcraft in this scenario and I was glad this book did not do that. I didnt want it to end even though I know what comes next. A must read for any history lover.

[Christine Cazeneuve · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable book mainly about King Edward IV and his life shortly before he meets his wife Elizabeth and ends with the battle at Barnet. This book is part of a series but stands very well on its own. If you're a hardcore Plantagenet fan like me there's nothing new here but I like the way the author tells the story. I also like that it's mainly from Edwards pov. Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publishers for an e-arc in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Tristan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very high historical fiction, definitely pulls you deep into the 15th century. Licence did a great job of portraying King Edward as both king and human. However, the intimate scenes were a tad bit too much like a soap-opera and not exactly original. The political intrigue was what carried the book. Still a great read for historical fictions fans in general.

[J'Naia Stepp · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m gonna be honest I’m a little disappointed because I had certain expectations for this one and it didn’t meet them (which is partially my fault but yk) but I did enjoy myself for the most part. I can see why people would give it 4/5 stars.

Personally, for me, there were books I just enjoyed way more and that were more up my ally.


*thank you NetGalley for the ARC

[Aria Harlow · Rating 4 out of 5]

I flew through this book, it was so intrigung and full of vivid descriptions. it was well written with well developed characters that had obviously been well researched and an interesting storyline. I find books set in this period and the tudor period fascinating and this was no exception. I really enjoyed it.