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The Secret in the Tower
1485. Richard III is King of England. Henry Tudor’s invasion looms.
Jack Broom thinks that war and politics have nothing to do with him. He is a simple apothecary’s boy dreaming of becoming a surgeon – until soldiers mistake him for a boy of noble birth.
Narrowly avoiding being dragged to the Tower of London, Jack sets out on a perilous mission to find out who he truly is. With the help of his new friend Alice, he uncovers conspiracies, treason, and the deadly lengths people will go to for power.
This book is the first in a collection of stand-alone titles set in medieval England, "Tales from the Middle Ages". The second, published in September 2024, is a tale of mystery, magic and theatre-players set during the Black Death, entitled "The Angel Player."
Jack Broom thinks that war and politics have nothing to do with him. He is a simple apothecary’s boy dreaming of becoming a surgeon – until soldiers mistake him for a boy of noble birth.
Narrowly avoiding being dragged to the Tower of London, Jack sets out on a perilous mission to find out who he truly is. With the help of his new friend Alice, he uncovers conspiracies, treason, and the deadly lengths people will go to for power.
This book is the first in a collection of stand-alone titles set in medieval England, "Tales from the Middle Ages". The second, published in September 2024, is a tale of mystery, magic and theatre-players set during the Black Death, entitled "The Angel Player."
304 pages, Paperback
Published September 8, 2022
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November 1, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Sweet Cherry Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The Secret in the Tower is set in the period of the War of the Roses between The House of Lancaster and the House of York.
Jack Broom, an apothecary apprentice in London, is mistaken by a soldier for a noble.
Then he will try in every way to enter the Tower of London to find out who he really is.
In the meantime, he will make friends with the mysterious Alice who will help him discover the conspiracies against the king and beyond.
This book is very interesting, especially for young readers who want to discover English history. It’s very well written and full of twists that keep you glued to the pages.
I absolutely recommend it to those who like Historical Fiction!
The Secret in the Tower is set in the period of the War of the Roses between The House of Lancaster and the House of York.
Jack Broom, an apothecary apprentice in London, is mistaken by a soldier for a noble.
Then he will try in every way to enter the Tower of London to find out who he really is.
In the meantime, he will make friends with the mysterious Alice who will help him discover the conspiracies against the king and beyond.
This book is very interesting, especially for young readers who want to discover English history. It’s very well written and full of twists that keep you glued to the pages.
I absolutely recommend it to those who like Historical Fiction!
August 20, 2023
ARC Review The Secret in the Tower by Andrew Beattie
Introduction
I was given an copy to review by Netgalley and Sweet Cherry Publishing. Reviews are always honest and all opinions are my own. I will always try to avoid spoilers in all reviews as well. #TheSecretintheTower #NetGalley #AndrewBeattie #MiddleGrade #HistoricalMiddleGrade #ARCReview
Review
In The Secret in the Tower Andrew Beattie tackles the medieval mystery that to this day remains unsolved and perhaps always will, what happened to the princes in the Tower. The two cousins of Richard III who seemingly disappeared after being reported spirited to the Tower of London in his reign. Beattie retells and adds their own spin of this historical story by introducing us to Jack Broom a simple apothecary boy dreaming of becoming a surgeon and who believes politics and war have nothing to do with him. That is until soldiers mistake him for a boy of noble birth. Narrowly avoiding being dragged and imprisoned the Tower Jack beings a journey to find out who he truly is. With the help of his new friend Alice, he uncovers conspiracies, treason and the deadly lengths people will go to for power.
Now it is probably pretty obvious I am not the intended audience but let me tell you this did not matter to me one bit! I fully enjoyed this from the first page. It was immersive, making you feel you were back in old medieval England. The characters were really enjoyable as well. Obviously with middle grade and children’s fiction you often find the focus is, rightly so, on the protagonists who are of a similar age but the adults also all had well rounded and interesting personalities. You really got a feel for each character and while it may have been a tad through Jack’s biased view it was so fun to read about them. I adored both Jack and Alice, she was such a fun character. I also enjoyed the banter between the ‘Northerners’ and Southerners’.
The story was fun and full of action, intrigue and historical accuracy. Not only will it be perfect for engaging children in reading but history as well, making it fun and relatable as well as hopefully inspiring their own investigations into the mystery but I also feel it will be a fun and enjoyable read for people like myself who love history and sometimes enjoy a little lighter read!
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#TheSecretintheTower #NetGalley #AndrewBeattie #MiddleGrade #HistoricalMiddleGrade #ARCReview #BookReviewer #BookBlogger #BookHoader #FantasticRead #BookDragon #BookShark #BookReader #Bookstagram #BookNerd #BookReader #BookLover #BooksBooksBooks #BookAddict #Book
Introduction
I was given an copy to review by Netgalley and Sweet Cherry Publishing. Reviews are always honest and all opinions are my own. I will always try to avoid spoilers in all reviews as well. #TheSecretintheTower #NetGalley #AndrewBeattie #MiddleGrade #HistoricalMiddleGrade #ARCReview
Review
In The Secret in the Tower Andrew Beattie tackles the medieval mystery that to this day remains unsolved and perhaps always will, what happened to the princes in the Tower. The two cousins of Richard III who seemingly disappeared after being reported spirited to the Tower of London in his reign. Beattie retells and adds their own spin of this historical story by introducing us to Jack Broom a simple apothecary boy dreaming of becoming a surgeon and who believes politics and war have nothing to do with him. That is until soldiers mistake him for a boy of noble birth. Narrowly avoiding being dragged and imprisoned the Tower Jack beings a journey to find out who he truly is. With the help of his new friend Alice, he uncovers conspiracies, treason and the deadly lengths people will go to for power.
Now it is probably pretty obvious I am not the intended audience but let me tell you this did not matter to me one bit! I fully enjoyed this from the first page. It was immersive, making you feel you were back in old medieval England. The characters were really enjoyable as well. Obviously with middle grade and children’s fiction you often find the focus is, rightly so, on the protagonists who are of a similar age but the adults also all had well rounded and interesting personalities. You really got a feel for each character and while it may have been a tad through Jack’s biased view it was so fun to read about them. I adored both Jack and Alice, she was such a fun character. I also enjoyed the banter between the ‘Northerners’ and Southerners’.
The story was fun and full of action, intrigue and historical accuracy. Not only will it be perfect for engaging children in reading but history as well, making it fun and relatable as well as hopefully inspiring their own investigations into the mystery but I also feel it will be a fun and enjoyable read for people like myself who love history and sometimes enjoy a little lighter read!
Hashtags
#TheSecretintheTower #NetGalley #AndrewBeattie #MiddleGrade #HistoricalMiddleGrade #ARCReview #BookReviewer #BookBlogger #BookHoader #FantasticRead #BookDragon #BookShark #BookReader #Bookstagram #BookNerd #BookReader #BookLover #BooksBooksBooks #BookAddict #Book
November 8, 2024
What worked:
Jack Broom is an endearing character who balances doing his apothecary duties for Old Mother Cobb with avoiding her beatings for being late or messing up. He scrapes together any money he has to buy medical books as he dreams of becoming a surgeon’s apprentice. He’s treated rudely by the king’s guard and suspects he’s being spied on. He tries to survive his difficulties as best he can and finally finds a friend in a girl named Alice. He’s willing to help those who need it but discovers he often needs help from others.
Jack is an orphan and doesn’t remember anything about his parents. The “aunt” he’s living with doesn’t seem to be a loving relative so her relationship to Jack is unclear. These questions force readers to speculate about Jack’s true story so the idea that he might be a lost son from nobility is very possible. He eventually realizes he may be able to learn answers about his past if he can somehow sneak into the Tower. However, there are people in the Tower searching for Jack and he doesn’t understand why. He must weigh the danger from the threats seeking him out with his desire to understand his past.
The story is set in the 1400s and the author includes numerous details from that time period. Old Mother Cobb creates remedies from herbs but Jack knows they probably don’t do much to cure any ailments. He studies the latest medical treatments using his books which include blood-letting with leeches to heal diseases. Clothing is handmade from wool and Jack mostly moves by foot around the city. King Richard III is ruling England but his claim to the throne may be illegitimate. This leads to the Cousins War, or the War of the Roses, which is a major part of the book. An epilogue and the author’s note at the end will answer any lingering questions and provide historical context to the story.
What didn’t work as well:
Clues are left regarding what’s happening in the plot but astute readers will probably be able to easily figure everything out. The synopsis lets readers know Jack will be misidentified and chased by unknown assailants but the mystery isn’t hard to foresee. The author’s twist adds some intrigue to Jack’s character but readers will have an inkling about that too.
The final verdict:
Jack’s kind, humble character is at the center of a historical adventure. There’s enough danger and drama to satisfy everyone with mystery and a suspenseful climax to wrap things up. I recommend you give this book a shot.
Jack Broom is an endearing character who balances doing his apothecary duties for Old Mother Cobb with avoiding her beatings for being late or messing up. He scrapes together any money he has to buy medical books as he dreams of becoming a surgeon’s apprentice. He’s treated rudely by the king’s guard and suspects he’s being spied on. He tries to survive his difficulties as best he can and finally finds a friend in a girl named Alice. He’s willing to help those who need it but discovers he often needs help from others.
Jack is an orphan and doesn’t remember anything about his parents. The “aunt” he’s living with doesn’t seem to be a loving relative so her relationship to Jack is unclear. These questions force readers to speculate about Jack’s true story so the idea that he might be a lost son from nobility is very possible. He eventually realizes he may be able to learn answers about his past if he can somehow sneak into the Tower. However, there are people in the Tower searching for Jack and he doesn’t understand why. He must weigh the danger from the threats seeking him out with his desire to understand his past.
The story is set in the 1400s and the author includes numerous details from that time period. Old Mother Cobb creates remedies from herbs but Jack knows they probably don’t do much to cure any ailments. He studies the latest medical treatments using his books which include blood-letting with leeches to heal diseases. Clothing is handmade from wool and Jack mostly moves by foot around the city. King Richard III is ruling England but his claim to the throne may be illegitimate. This leads to the Cousins War, or the War of the Roses, which is a major part of the book. An epilogue and the author’s note at the end will answer any lingering questions and provide historical context to the story.
What didn’t work as well:
Clues are left regarding what’s happening in the plot but astute readers will probably be able to easily figure everything out. The synopsis lets readers know Jack will be misidentified and chased by unknown assailants but the mystery isn’t hard to foresee. The author’s twist adds some intrigue to Jack’s character but readers will have an inkling about that too.
The final verdict:
Jack’s kind, humble character is at the center of a historical adventure. There’s enough danger and drama to satisfy everyone with mystery and a suspenseful climax to wrap things up. I recommend you give this book a shot.
August 18, 2022
This book should be right up the alley of kids who have read and enjoyed Avi's The Cross of Lead, Cushman's The Midwife's Apprentice, or Nielsen's The False Prince. It describes the backstabbing that happened in British royal families as one lineage tried to usurp the throne from another. King Richard is the current king, having imprisoned his nephews in the Tower of London when the previous king, their father, died. The mystery of what happened to those boys is the subject behind this historical fiction middle grade novel.
It begins with a boy scrabbling around in the streets of medieval London. Jack is an apothecary's apprentice who gets caught up in a mystery and royal takedown. He could care less who's on the throne, but for some reason, people on both King Richard's side and Henry Tudor's side are interested in Jack. He doesn't know why or who to trust. All he wants is to stay out of trouble, become a surgeon's apprentice, and keep hanging out with his new friend Alice. Not long into their friendship he finds out that she's much more important than he realized and she's helping to care for a boy in the infamous Tower of London. The fact that he looks like that boy is going to cause a big problem for him. Finding out who he can trust is going to be critical or he's going to end up dead. He's sure of it.
It's a fast paced story. Outcomes are always unexpected, so the reader is always on his toes. I love the historical context. The facts that led to King Richard gaining the throne and his eventual overthrow are historically accurate and well-presented. The mystery of the brothers in the Tower is still a mystery, and therefore all speculation, but the author's theory is interesting.
Since the book cover says "Tales of Medieval England", I hope this is going to be a series.
It begins with a boy scrabbling around in the streets of medieval London. Jack is an apothecary's apprentice who gets caught up in a mystery and royal takedown. He could care less who's on the throne, but for some reason, people on both King Richard's side and Henry Tudor's side are interested in Jack. He doesn't know why or who to trust. All he wants is to stay out of trouble, become a surgeon's apprentice, and keep hanging out with his new friend Alice. Not long into their friendship he finds out that she's much more important than he realized and she's helping to care for a boy in the infamous Tower of London. The fact that he looks like that boy is going to cause a big problem for him. Finding out who he can trust is going to be critical or he's going to end up dead. He's sure of it.
It's a fast paced story. Outcomes are always unexpected, so the reader is always on his toes. I love the historical context. The facts that led to King Richard gaining the throne and his eventual overthrow are historically accurate and well-presented. The mystery of the brothers in the Tower is still a mystery, and therefore all speculation, but the author's theory is interesting.
Since the book cover says "Tales of Medieval England", I hope this is going to be a series.
November 3, 2022
Thank you so much to Sweet Cherry Publishing who kindly sent me a copy to read and review.
Jack Broom a simple boy who want to learn to be a surgeon, but he is spotted by King Richard III soldiers and is mistaken as a child of noble birth, and has to prove he isn’t to save himself from the tower. He and his friend Alice set off to find out who he truly is and soon realises the lengths that people will go to have all the reigning power.
A fascinating middle grade historical book set in the Richard III and Henry VII time line when a battle between cousins for the thrown was ongoing. This story concentrates on the mystery of Princes Edward and Richard and what really happened to the two disappearing Princes. It’s great to find a book focusing on other sections of history that we don’t usually see. The author is well researched and really transports you to the time period, some portions were inaccurate but for the most part done correctly. Though some features within this story are fictional there is an authors note at the end to share which are real and which are not, I loved that it was included.
We follow our protagonist Jack who works at his abusive aunts apothecary, but he dreams of working as a surgeon for the kings soldiers. He soon finds himself in trouble as the kings soldiers mistake him as royal, as he shares an uncanny resemblance to one of the royal princes. He and his new friend Alice set off on an adventure to find out who he actually is. They both soon learn more than expected about royals, the mystery of the missing princes, war and politics than they expected they would.
This is a good book for getting younger readers interested in history, it is a bit heavy in places, but royal history is a heavy subject. I think that it would be enjoyable and a more fun way to teach this era, with the huge mystery of the princes and our protagonist taking you on an adventure kids will be whisked away into this historical world.
I liked this book and as a history fan it was really interesting to see a section of history that usually gets forgotten, especially in books. The protagonist was a little irritating at times and some of the inaccuracies were annoying. However overall it was a very fun book and I liked reading it.
Jack Broom a simple boy who want to learn to be a surgeon, but he is spotted by King Richard III soldiers and is mistaken as a child of noble birth, and has to prove he isn’t to save himself from the tower. He and his friend Alice set off to find out who he truly is and soon realises the lengths that people will go to have all the reigning power.
A fascinating middle grade historical book set in the Richard III and Henry VII time line when a battle between cousins for the thrown was ongoing. This story concentrates on the mystery of Princes Edward and Richard and what really happened to the two disappearing Princes. It’s great to find a book focusing on other sections of history that we don’t usually see. The author is well researched and really transports you to the time period, some portions were inaccurate but for the most part done correctly. Though some features within this story are fictional there is an authors note at the end to share which are real and which are not, I loved that it was included.
We follow our protagonist Jack who works at his abusive aunts apothecary, but he dreams of working as a surgeon for the kings soldiers. He soon finds himself in trouble as the kings soldiers mistake him as royal, as he shares an uncanny resemblance to one of the royal princes. He and his new friend Alice set off on an adventure to find out who he actually is. They both soon learn more than expected about royals, the mystery of the missing princes, war and politics than they expected they would.
This is a good book for getting younger readers interested in history, it is a bit heavy in places, but royal history is a heavy subject. I think that it would be enjoyable and a more fun way to teach this era, with the huge mystery of the princes and our protagonist taking you on an adventure kids will be whisked away into this historical world.
I liked this book and as a history fan it was really interesting to see a section of history that usually gets forgotten, especially in books. The protagonist was a little irritating at times and some of the inaccuracies were annoying. However overall it was a very fun book and I liked reading it.
October 8, 2022
If you have any liking for Richard III, look away now. Just the very first pages of this has him as physically impaired, lording it over all so that nobody is allowed to dare look at him when he's out and about, and boss of an army full of uncouth, thieving, drunkard rabble-rousers. He loves hanging, drawing and quartering – oh, and pears. But still, our main focus is Jack, a hard-done-to creature who wants to grow up to become a medical man, and is now a whipping-post for his apothecary-running aunt. To that end he wants to run away to the top surgeon, who operates for the key soldiers and officers of Richard's court, from the Tower of London. Jack would like desperately to break in and meet the man, but little is he to know his destiny is going to force him through those walls, for reasons he could never imagine...
The thing with this book is that the beginning chapters are filled with one contrivance after another, and it makes you unsure of how safe the ground here is. But happily it is still readable, and when the narrative has finished with the set-up and is allowed to march on to its ending, it does so very entertainingly. Yes, there is a beat of the end that is very easy to predict, certainly for the adults reading this, but the target audience is almost forced to be swept up in the machinations of the day, and Jack proves throughout worthwhile company on this speculative historical lesson. Ultimately even Richard III comes off as slightly less of a wrong'un than the opening suggested, meaning that despite one ridiculous twist proving someone turns from nasty to saintly overnight this is a well-judged drama. Four stars, then, although that is from the point of view of the target audience. Older readers will see issues here which makes that a touch too generous.
The thing with this book is that the beginning chapters are filled with one contrivance after another, and it makes you unsure of how safe the ground here is. But happily it is still readable, and when the narrative has finished with the set-up and is allowed to march on to its ending, it does so very entertainingly. Yes, there is a beat of the end that is very easy to predict, certainly for the adults reading this, but the target audience is almost forced to be swept up in the machinations of the day, and Jack proves throughout worthwhile company on this speculative historical lesson. Ultimately even Richard III comes off as slightly less of a wrong'un than the opening suggested, meaning that despite one ridiculous twist proving someone turns from nasty to saintly overnight this is a well-judged drama. Four stars, then, although that is from the point of view of the target audience. Older readers will see issues here which makes that a touch too generous.
September 6, 2022
Rating:
3 out of 5 stars
Summary:
In the novel, we follow Jack’s life in late medieval London. Jack lives with his aunt – or so he thinks… - and they both work in her apothecary. Jack also goes to school, which is an exception for a middle-class boy like him, but he wants to be a surgeon so he needs his education. Jack meets Alice when he’s swimming and they become friends. Alice has a friend in need of medical help, so Jack joins in, but the person is not just any person… One day, the great battle of the war of the roses arrives and the whole of London is tense. When Henry wins the battle and becomes king, the special person might be in grave danger and only Jack can save him… will he succeed?
Review:
This is a nice book to read in-between other books to just have a quick read while deciding what your next read is going to be. It’s written in a quite easy manner and the story is medium paced, which makes it easy to understand.
The author has done research in order to write this novel, which means the historical facts are correct (this is also stated in an author’s note at the end of the book). It’s not only amusing, but also makes the novel a bit educational.
However, the storyline was sometimes a bit boring. In some places in the story nothing really happened or Jack didn’t understand at all what was happening around him – even when it was explained to him, this annoyed me the most – and the story was just unnecessarily long.
The characters were also a bit flat, but still very enjoyable.
Conclusion:
I would recommend this book to people looking for a quick read and people interested in historical fiction. It’s not difficult, but quite fun.
3 out of 5 stars
Summary:
In the novel, we follow Jack’s life in late medieval London. Jack lives with his aunt – or so he thinks… - and they both work in her apothecary. Jack also goes to school, which is an exception for a middle-class boy like him, but he wants to be a surgeon so he needs his education. Jack meets Alice when he’s swimming and they become friends. Alice has a friend in need of medical help, so Jack joins in, but the person is not just any person… One day, the great battle of the war of the roses arrives and the whole of London is tense. When Henry wins the battle and becomes king, the special person might be in grave danger and only Jack can save him… will he succeed?
Review:
This is a nice book to read in-between other books to just have a quick read while deciding what your next read is going to be. It’s written in a quite easy manner and the story is medium paced, which makes it easy to understand.
The author has done research in order to write this novel, which means the historical facts are correct (this is also stated in an author’s note at the end of the book). It’s not only amusing, but also makes the novel a bit educational.
However, the storyline was sometimes a bit boring. In some places in the story nothing really happened or Jack didn’t understand at all what was happening around him – even when it was explained to him, this annoyed me the most – and the story was just unnecessarily long.
The characters were also a bit flat, but still very enjoyable.
Conclusion:
I would recommend this book to people looking for a quick read and people interested in historical fiction. It’s not difficult, but quite fun.
August 25, 2023
Set in 1485, King Richard the third is on the throne of England. The “ crook back” or “ hunchback” King has long been suspected of murdering his two nephews, Princes Edward and Richard Plantagenet in the Tower of London for many reasons, both personal and political.
Jack Broom is an apprentice to Old Mother Cobb, who is an apothecary, she treats him badly, yet wants to keep him safe. They live near the Tower of London, and London is getting ready to fight Henry Tudor of Wales, who is planning to invade England and claim the throne for his family. When a guard at the Tower sees Jack, he reacts most unexpectedly, and so do others. After a kidnap attempt, family secrets , long kept begin to emerge and put Jack and his friends in great danger. This is a secret that could bring down Kings.
Aimed at young Adults, this is an entertaining and informative retelling of this mystery, that still has questions to be answered. It introduces new theories as to the sequence of events and those who could have been responsible. I favour the Dr Argentine solution, it seems more plausible than any others I have read about , but it must be stressed, this is a work of historical fiction, blended with historical facts.
My thanks to Netgalley and Sweet Cherry Publishers for my advanced digital copy, freely given in exchange for my honest review.
A five star review, the style of writing and information given was perfect for the intended age groups.
I will leave reviews to Goodreads and Amazon UK later.
Jack Broom is an apprentice to Old Mother Cobb, who is an apothecary, she treats him badly, yet wants to keep him safe. They live near the Tower of London, and London is getting ready to fight Henry Tudor of Wales, who is planning to invade England and claim the throne for his family. When a guard at the Tower sees Jack, he reacts most unexpectedly, and so do others. After a kidnap attempt, family secrets , long kept begin to emerge and put Jack and his friends in great danger. This is a secret that could bring down Kings.
Aimed at young Adults, this is an entertaining and informative retelling of this mystery, that still has questions to be answered. It introduces new theories as to the sequence of events and those who could have been responsible. I favour the Dr Argentine solution, it seems more plausible than any others I have read about , but it must be stressed, this is a work of historical fiction, blended with historical facts.
My thanks to Netgalley and Sweet Cherry Publishers for my advanced digital copy, freely given in exchange for my honest review.
A five star review, the style of writing and information given was perfect for the intended age groups.
I will leave reviews to Goodreads and Amazon UK later.
July 8, 2023
Jack Broom is an apothecary’s boy, living in the shadow of the Tower of London during the short reign of Richard III. He wants nothing more than to become a surgeon but when he meets the daughter of the Constable of the Tower and comes to the attention of one of Richard’s soldiers, it becomes clear that his ‘aunt’ has not been truthful about who he really is.
This is an interesting twist on the story of the princes in the Tower, Richard III’s two Plantagenet nephews whose mere existence posed a threat to his reign and that of his successor, Henry Tudor. No-one knows what really happened to the two young princes, whether they were murdered or simply imprisoned, but this story takes this historical fact and weaves an interesting story around what could have happened, through the eyes of Jack Broom.
The setting of medieval London and the Tower itself were brought to life through vivid descriptions. The book also gave an insight into the political tensions running through the country, with people supporting the claims of different men to the throne, whilst knowing that to support anyone other than the person currently on the throne would amount to treason, and with allegiances having to change overnight when King Henry came to power.
A great piece of historical fiction but ultimately a good adventure story.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is an interesting twist on the story of the princes in the Tower, Richard III’s two Plantagenet nephews whose mere existence posed a threat to his reign and that of his successor, Henry Tudor. No-one knows what really happened to the two young princes, whether they were murdered or simply imprisoned, but this story takes this historical fact and weaves an interesting story around what could have happened, through the eyes of Jack Broom.
The setting of medieval London and the Tower itself were brought to life through vivid descriptions. The book also gave an insight into the political tensions running through the country, with people supporting the claims of different men to the throne, whilst knowing that to support anyone other than the person currently on the throne would amount to treason, and with allegiances having to change overnight when King Henry came to power.
A great piece of historical fiction but ultimately a good adventure story.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and Sweet Cherry Publishing for the opportunity to read an advanced reader's copy of this book for an honest review. (Publish Date: September 8, 2022)
“The Secret in the Tower” by Andrew Beattie was full of surprises, fast paced, and well written with plenty of cliff hangers to keep young readers engaged until the end of the book.
Jack Broom is a typical 12-year-old boy who lives with his aunt as an apothecary’s apprentice and dreams of becoming a surgeon. His seemingly ordinary and uneventful life suddenly turns upside down when some soldiers mistake him for nobility. Jack realizes that he can’t trust anyone except a mysterious girl who offers to help him. Without giving any spoilers away, I will say that Jack is a remarkable character who is far more capable than he ever thought he was!
I also really liked the map featured at the beginning of the book and thought it was a helpful tool for readers to use while reading the story to see the locations Jacks visits around London.
Overall, I very much enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone wanting to read an exciting and well written historical fiction story!
“The Secret in the Tower” by Andrew Beattie was full of surprises, fast paced, and well written with plenty of cliff hangers to keep young readers engaged until the end of the book.
Jack Broom is a typical 12-year-old boy who lives with his aunt as an apothecary’s apprentice and dreams of becoming a surgeon. His seemingly ordinary and uneventful life suddenly turns upside down when some soldiers mistake him for nobility. Jack realizes that he can’t trust anyone except a mysterious girl who offers to help him. Without giving any spoilers away, I will say that Jack is a remarkable character who is far more capable than he ever thought he was!
I also really liked the map featured at the beginning of the book and thought it was a helpful tool for readers to use while reading the story to see the locations Jacks visits around London.
Overall, I very much enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone wanting to read an exciting and well written historical fiction story!
September 29, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and Sweet Cherry Publishing for an eARC of The Secret in the Tower by Andrew Beattie in exchange for an honest review.
CW: imprisonment, medical content, blood, violence, murder, see full list on StoryGraph
The Secret in the Tower is a middle grade alternate history retelling of the real life mystery of the boys in the tower. In 18th century England, a war is waging for the throne. Main character Jack Broom is living with the old apothecary on the Thames, and one day makes a friend who introduces him to the dark secrets of the ruling royals. Deep within the Tower of London lives a sick boy named Dickon, and aspiring doctor Jack treats this boy as his first patient. Strangely, Dickon bears a nearly identical resemblance to Jack. When Jack learns that his own life might be in danger, he and his new friend Alice endeavor to break Dickon out of the tower and change the course of history.
This is an excellent introduction to English history for young readers. The author's note at the end explains which parts of this story were inspired by true events and which were complete fabrications. The storyline was engaging and will hold the attention of young readers and serve as a springboard for further investigation into the true history and mystery of the boys in the tower.
CW: imprisonment, medical content, blood, violence, murder, see full list on StoryGraph
The Secret in the Tower is a middle grade alternate history retelling of the real life mystery of the boys in the tower. In 18th century England, a war is waging for the throne. Main character Jack Broom is living with the old apothecary on the Thames, and one day makes a friend who introduces him to the dark secrets of the ruling royals. Deep within the Tower of London lives a sick boy named Dickon, and aspiring doctor Jack treats this boy as his first patient. Strangely, Dickon bears a nearly identical resemblance to Jack. When Jack learns that his own life might be in danger, he and his new friend Alice endeavor to break Dickon out of the tower and change the course of history.
This is an excellent introduction to English history for young readers. The author's note at the end explains which parts of this story were inspired by true events and which were complete fabrications. The storyline was engaging and will hold the attention of young readers and serve as a springboard for further investigation into the true history and mystery of the boys in the tower.
January 31, 2024
1485: Jack Broom is just an ordinary boy who works at his aunt’s apothecary shop. He dreams of being a surgeon one day, so he studies hard at school. When he meets a soldier from the Tower of London who could introduce him to the famous surgeon, Dr. Argentine, Jack goes against his gut feeling and follows the soldier. However, Jack is in danger when he gets to the Tower. The Tower holds conspiracy, treason, and secrets about Jack’s past.
This was a thrilling children’s novel about the Tower of London. In the 15th century, when Richard III became King, he imprisoned two boys, who were the rightful heirs of the crown, in the Tower of London. They were never seen again, so they were thought to be murdered. This story imagines what happened if they were living in secret in the Tower. I loved the suspense of the secrets in Jack’s past, that even he didn’t know about. It kept me guessing until the end. I loved this reimagining of history.
The Secret in the Tower is a great middle grade historical story!
Thank you Sweet Cherry Publishing for providing a digital copy of this book.
Content warnings: child death, parental abandonment, death of parent, blood, vomiting
This was a thrilling children’s novel about the Tower of London. In the 15th century, when Richard III became King, he imprisoned two boys, who were the rightful heirs of the crown, in the Tower of London. They were never seen again, so they were thought to be murdered. This story imagines what happened if they were living in secret in the Tower. I loved the suspense of the secrets in Jack’s past, that even he didn’t know about. It kept me guessing until the end. I loved this reimagining of history.
The Secret in the Tower is a great middle grade historical story!
Thank you Sweet Cherry Publishing for providing a digital copy of this book.
Content warnings: child death, parental abandonment, death of parent, blood, vomiting
September 7, 2022
I will never be too old for middle-grade fiction books!
The Secret in the Tower is Beattie’s own take on what happened to the real life sons of King Edward the IV when the King died and rule was taken over by his brother Richard Duke of Gloucester in the late 1400’s.
Jack is a 12 year old boy living with his cruel Aunt in an apothecary when he gets mistaken for someone of nobility. Now all he knows is that he’s in great danger but no idea why. With a new found friend, Alice, and a War on the verge, Jack sets off to discover the truth.
I know this isn’t fantasy but it gave the vibes and I really enjoyed this book. It reminded me a lot of The Horse and His Boy but more modernly written. The end had a full explanation of everything that happened and I love when books do that. Beattie also told us the History of what the story is based on and what elements were kept accurate!
Thank you NetGalley and Sweet Cherry Publishing for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
The Secret in the Tower is Beattie’s own take on what happened to the real life sons of King Edward the IV when the King died and rule was taken over by his brother Richard Duke of Gloucester in the late 1400’s.
Jack is a 12 year old boy living with his cruel Aunt in an apothecary when he gets mistaken for someone of nobility. Now all he knows is that he’s in great danger but no idea why. With a new found friend, Alice, and a War on the verge, Jack sets off to discover the truth.
I know this isn’t fantasy but it gave the vibes and I really enjoyed this book. It reminded me a lot of The Horse and His Boy but more modernly written. The end had a full explanation of everything that happened and I love when books do that. Beattie also told us the History of what the story is based on and what elements were kept accurate!
Thank you NetGalley and Sweet Cherry Publishing for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
September 19, 2022
I've always been interested in the mystery of The Princes in the Tower AKA the disappearance of Edward and Richard, and the author takes this part of history and creates an exhilarating adventure.
Jack Broom is a simple apothecary's assistant but through a case of mistaken identity, he finds himself embroiled in a war between kings and by teaming up with a new friend, he sets out to discover his true identity.
Beattie does a terrific job of transporting the reader back to medieval London, the descriptions are vivid and the real life history is well developed. Jack is an extremely courageous and capable character for someone so young, he really has that hero energy. I also loved Alice, her quick thinking and resourcefulness really came in handy. I love when middle grades delve deeper into parts of history that younger readers might not have been introduced to yet and this is an excellent story to prompt further research into this area of English history. Overall, an exciting, high-stakes mystery full of twists and action that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Jack Broom is a simple apothecary's assistant but through a case of mistaken identity, he finds himself embroiled in a war between kings and by teaming up with a new friend, he sets out to discover his true identity.
Beattie does a terrific job of transporting the reader back to medieval London, the descriptions are vivid and the real life history is well developed. Jack is an extremely courageous and capable character for someone so young, he really has that hero energy. I also loved Alice, her quick thinking and resourcefulness really came in handy. I love when middle grades delve deeper into parts of history that younger readers might not have been introduced to yet and this is an excellent story to prompt further research into this area of English history. Overall, an exciting, high-stakes mystery full of twists and action that I thoroughly enjoyed.
May 6, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the advanced reader copy of "The Secret in the Tower" by Andrew Beattie.
I had trouble with this one, so much so I didn't want to finish it. I found for a start that there were two writing styles and two levels of writing that were at odds with one another right from the get go. The author clearly has researched his material and has provided much historical detail about King Richard and the building up to the War of the Roses. He has also done a good job of world building in terms of describing what streets would have looked like, what people would've been wearing, and the kinds of businesses that would have been operating at this time.
So we know then that this author is skilled with his use of language. What I found has let him down is his character dialogue which I found very juvenile and jarring considering the heavy historical facts he is throwing at these young readers.
I also take issue with his black and white portrayal of King Richard considering the wealth of research that has been published in the past decade.
I had trouble with this one, so much so I didn't want to finish it. I found for a start that there were two writing styles and two levels of writing that were at odds with one another right from the get go. The author clearly has researched his material and has provided much historical detail about King Richard and the building up to the War of the Roses. He has also done a good job of world building in terms of describing what streets would have looked like, what people would've been wearing, and the kinds of businesses that would have been operating at this time.
So we know then that this author is skilled with his use of language. What I found has let him down is his character dialogue which I found very juvenile and jarring considering the heavy historical facts he is throwing at these young readers.
I also take issue with his black and white portrayal of King Richard considering the wealth of research that has been published in the past decade.
February 1, 2025
The Secret in the Tower is a UK historical fiction middle grade book about an event from the middle ages.
Jack is a boy who helps his aunt run the local apothecary during a tumultuous time in history, the War of the Roses. Jack finds himself in trouble when a group of men kidnap him because he bears a striking resemblance to the young Richard Plantagenet, heir to the throne, who went missing. As Jack works his way into the Tower of London to uncover secrets, he must discover who he can trust with the truth, that Richard is still alive!
The book is a very serious look at a difficult time in history. Although the story centers around kids, the action can be very adult at times. There is brutality, accurate depictions of old medical procedures, and fighting. The historical note at the end does delve into the truth, including which characters are based on real people.
The child who chooses this book will love history, and is willing to work with a British vocabulary.
This book is an optional purchase for grades 5 – 8.
J.G.
Youth Services Librarian
Jack is a boy who helps his aunt run the local apothecary during a tumultuous time in history, the War of the Roses. Jack finds himself in trouble when a group of men kidnap him because he bears a striking resemblance to the young Richard Plantagenet, heir to the throne, who went missing. As Jack works his way into the Tower of London to uncover secrets, he must discover who he can trust with the truth, that Richard is still alive!
The book is a very serious look at a difficult time in history. Although the story centers around kids, the action can be very adult at times. There is brutality, accurate depictions of old medical procedures, and fighting. The historical note at the end does delve into the truth, including which characters are based on real people.
The child who chooses this book will love history, and is willing to work with a British vocabulary.
This book is an optional purchase for grades 5 – 8.
J.G.
Youth Services Librarian
January 5, 2026
I received a review copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. It has not affected my opinions.
The mystery of the princes in the Tower is a very old one (450 years old!) There is so much we don't know about what happened to Edward VI and his brother Richard - so many rumours swirled during Richard III and Henry VII's reign.
This story takes those rumours and builds a new story from some of their pieces. It's definitely a story, but parts of historical fiction are about finding the gaps in what we know and creating something to fill the gaps. Plus filling in the gaps this way allows for hope.
I liked that there was a thorough historical note at the end that goes into what we know about what actually happened (and what we don't!) it makes it very clear what in this book is fiction. I think it's important that historical fiction is clear about what's been fabricated, especially for children who might not have been exposed to the events before and know all the context.
The mystery of the princes in the Tower is a very old one (450 years old!) There is so much we don't know about what happened to Edward VI and his brother Richard - so many rumours swirled during Richard III and Henry VII's reign.
This story takes those rumours and builds a new story from some of their pieces. It's definitely a story, but parts of historical fiction are about finding the gaps in what we know and creating something to fill the gaps. Plus filling in the gaps this way allows for hope.
I liked that there was a thorough historical note at the end that goes into what we know about what actually happened (and what we don't!) it makes it very clear what in this book is fiction. I think it's important that historical fiction is clear about what's been fabricated, especially for children who might not have been exposed to the events before and know all the context.
May 3, 2023
I love a good historical adventure and I feel there aren’t many available for middle grade readers apart from World War 2 stories, so I was intrigued to learn about this one. Jack Broom is an ordinary boy who lives in an apothecary shop but dreams of being a surgeon one day. After befriending a young girl he uncovers a secret that could change the course of history! This story is based on a real historical mystery about the princes in the tower a fascinating unsolved mystery made more intriguing by this new take on it.
I loved this book it is a well written historical adventure with likeable characters, I especially loved Alice who was brave feisty and loyal. The adventure was tense and exciting which made me keep wanting to read and I even googled to find out more about the real life princes, a sure sign of a good book! I would highly recommend for any fan of history and adventure stories.
I loved this book it is a well written historical adventure with likeable characters, I especially loved Alice who was brave feisty and loyal. The adventure was tense and exciting which made me keep wanting to read and I even googled to find out more about the real life princes, a sure sign of a good book! I would highly recommend for any fan of history and adventure stories.
August 20, 2022
This is the fictionalized story of Prince Edward and Richard. Jack Broom lives with his aunt at the apothecary, and he wants to be a physician. His world is thrown upside down when he meet a girl who seems to know more about him than he does. A man that tries to kidnap him and he soon learns that there is a lot he doesn’t know about his past..
This book is well written and I read it in one evening (and night), as I had to know what was happening next and every time I found out that thing something else came up and I had more questions, just like Jack did.. so the only option was to keep on reading!
Very much enjoyed it and also learned some things about that time period, even though fictional, as explained towards the end of the book, some characters did in deed exist and what we know if them now. (or should I say don’t know?…
This book is well written and I read it in one evening (and night), as I had to know what was happening next and every time I found out that thing something else came up and I had more questions, just like Jack did.. so the only option was to keep on reading!
Very much enjoyed it and also learned some things about that time period, even though fictional, as explained towards the end of the book, some characters did in deed exist and what we know if them now. (or should I say don’t know?…
September 11, 2022
3.5 Rounded to 4
The Secret in the Tower is a retelling of sorts about the real history of the Plantagenet brothers. No one really knows the truth behind the rumors of what happened to them so this was an interesting twist on what could have been.
The author's historical note at the end is worth reading as it gives background into the characters in the book that are based on real people.
While this was slower in some spots, overall it is a well-paced and easy read. This would be a good one for a Middle Grade English class to read and discuss together. For those who enjoy this time period and historical fiction in general, this is a good one for between other reads.
I sincerely appreciate the publisher and NetGalley for the review copy. All opinions are my own.
The Secret in the Tower is a retelling of sorts about the real history of the Plantagenet brothers. No one really knows the truth behind the rumors of what happened to them so this was an interesting twist on what could have been.
The author's historical note at the end is worth reading as it gives background into the characters in the book that are based on real people.
While this was slower in some spots, overall it is a well-paced and easy read. This would be a good one for a Middle Grade English class to read and discuss together. For those who enjoy this time period and historical fiction in general, this is a good one for between other reads.
I sincerely appreciate the publisher and NetGalley for the review copy. All opinions are my own.
September 29, 2022
Sink into the grime and filth of Medieval London in a sticky heatwave. Tunnel your way through twisted back streets and encounter a host of wonderfully penned characters. I thoroughly enjoyed reading, The Secret in the Tower. Old Mother Cobb and the cut-throat menace of Blaybourne certainly add a kind of crusty richness to this mystery story that ends in a nail-biting, suspenseful ending. As no one knows with any certainty what happened to the ‘Princes in the Tower,’ I thought it was an entertaining and clever alternative to ideas muted by historians. But I can’t say anymore, or it would give the game away! And so, in the spirit of Agatha Christie’s Mousetrap, I will not reveal the lovely twist at the end.
August 12, 2022
This book was very interesting. I enjoyed the historical references to real people and the fact that it refers to the real life mystery of what happened to the princes in the tower. It must have been a very frightening time knowing that an army of soldiers is marching towards your city and that you have no control over who is going to be in charge of the country or knowing how their decisions might affect your day to day life and I think this book will help children understand that. Without giving away spoilers, the ending was very intriguing and all in all this book has made me want to do my own research into the story of the princes in the tower.
August 16, 2022
This is the fictionalized story of the brothers in the tower, Prince Edward and Richard . Jack Broom lives with his aunt the apothecary, and wants to be a physician. His world is thrown in turmoil when he meet a girl who seems to know more about him than he does. He soon learns that he has a lot of questions about himself and those he thought he knew.
I recommend this book to those interested in what happened to the princes in the tower and/or history during the time of Richard and Henry VII and the Battle of the Cousins.
I was given the opportunity to read this book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I recommend this book to those interested in what happened to the princes in the tower and/or history during the time of Richard and Henry VII and the Battle of the Cousins.
I was given the opportunity to read this book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 7, 2024
The Secret in the Tower is a fascinating historical adventure set in medieval England amidst the battle for English throne. Jack Broom is an apothecary's boy who dreams of becoming a surgeon when he gets mixed up in the mysterious boy up in the Tower of London.
There's plenty of political intrigue, medieval medicine, and adventure as Jack and his friend Alice navigate their way through perilous times. There's lots of fascinating historical details as well. The tale is immersive and captivating. A quick read and I'd wholeheartedly recommend it to every young reader interested in adventure and history.
(A copy of this ebook was provided in return for an honest review.)
There's plenty of political intrigue, medieval medicine, and adventure as Jack and his friend Alice navigate their way through perilous times. There's lots of fascinating historical details as well. The tale is immersive and captivating. A quick read and I'd wholeheartedly recommend it to every young reader interested in adventure and history.
(A copy of this ebook was provided in return for an honest review.)
July 31, 2022
I have always been fascinated by historical mysteries and this is one that really fascinates me. Two princes locked into a tower before the oldest has his coronation and then overnight they just disappear and even today noone has any idea who did it, there are theories but no real idea.
This was an incredibel retelling and one that I couldn't put down and so raced through in a couple of hours. I liked that it retold the mystery as well as added some new extra mystery and twists to it. A great read.
This was an incredibel retelling and one that I couldn't put down and so raced through in a couple of hours. I liked that it retold the mystery as well as added some new extra mystery and twists to it. A great read.
April 8, 2023
The time period covered by The Secret in the Tower is one that fascinates so many people. To this day, no one truly knows what happened to the two princes sequestered in the Tower of London by their uncle, King Richard.
This story for upper elementary through middle school students tackles the subject through the fictional character of Jack Broom who bears an uncanny resemblance to one of the princes. He finds himself swept away from the life he knew as an apothecary's apprentice into one of danger and intrigue.
Overall, this was a great historical fiction title for this age range. Even though I am much older, I enjoyed it as well.
This story for upper elementary through middle school students tackles the subject through the fictional character of Jack Broom who bears an uncanny resemblance to one of the princes. He finds himself swept away from the life he knew as an apothecary's apprentice into one of danger and intrigue.
Overall, this was a great historical fiction title for this age range. Even though I am much older, I enjoyed it as well.
September 7, 2022
A really impressive book to read from start to finish couldn't stop reading it at all, the plot of the book was simply amazing all the way through, I honestly had no issues at all through this book, totally loved it.
All the characters you get to meet throughout the book were all simply amazing especially some little twists when you find out who they really are in the end, which I didn't see coming at all.
Now the twists near enough near the end at me on the edge of my seat a mean a didn't see it coming at all, I am not gonna spoil I as it did indeed have me speechless till the end.
Would love to read more books like this as it had me going and I loved the twist at the end.
All the characters you get to meet throughout the book were all simply amazing especially some little twists when you find out who they really are in the end, which I didn't see coming at all.
Now the twists near enough near the end at me on the edge of my seat a mean a didn't see it coming at all, I am not gonna spoil I as it did indeed have me speechless till the end.
Would love to read more books like this as it had me going and I loved the twist at the end.
May 12, 2023
pace of the story could have been faster. Despite this, the characters are well developed and the relationship between Jack and Alice is heartwarming. The ending is also satisfying and ties up all the loose ends nicely. Overall, it's a decent historical fiction novel with accurate historical details and likable characters, although the pacing could have been improved.
Thanks for the arc NetGalley
Thanks for the arc NetGalley
June 24, 2023
This was a nice read. It has mistaken identity which leads the main character Jack into some fun situations. He uses this new identity to find out who he really is with the help of a new friend, Alice. This books has many different twists that keeps the reader engaged and guessing. I enjoy reading period pieces no matter if it is historically accurate or if it takes some liberties and this book was great.
February 24, 2025
As an adult reading this book whose target audience is upper elementary and middle grades readers, I would like more character development and depth. But, as an adult reading this book whose target audience is upper elementary and middle grade readers, I also think this book would be a great read for a kid who likes history, a little bit of mystery, and some action/adventure. If I were a young reader, I'd probably give this book three or four stars.
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