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Symbol Maker's Daughter
A thrilling historical tale of destiny set in 1400s England
Symbol Maker's Daughter takes us on the journey of a singular woman forced from the comfortable life she knows into a world of danger and intrigue that will test her will as never before. While the battle for the throne between Richard, Duke of Gloucester, and Henry Tudor ignites a nation, Lady Nicola Weldon embarks on a perilous road to play her part in ensuring Tudor claims the throne.
“She had been unable to open that door when she tried before. Today, the door was cracked open. There was no sound coming from inside. Looking cautiously around behind her, Nicola pushed open the door and stepped in. She had already tiptoed deep into the room when she saw Garrett and Drue. Drue was leaning over Garrett’s lifeless body, which was slumped against the wall. Nicola gasped, and Drue spun around to find her staring at him. 'Nicola, come here,’ he ordered, straightening himself up.
Terrified, Nicola began to back away, slowly, step by step, keeping her eyes on Drue. She kept her hand over her mouth to silence a scream as she continued to back away. Drue walked slowly toward her, wiping his hands on a cloth tied around his waist. 'Nicola,’ Drue spoke again as he continued to move toward her, “come here.’”
Symbol Maker's Daughter takes us on the journey of a singular woman forced from the comfortable life she knows into a world of danger and intrigue that will test her will as never before. While the battle for the throne between Richard, Duke of Gloucester, and Henry Tudor ignites a nation, Lady Nicola Weldon embarks on a perilous road to play her part in ensuring Tudor claims the throne.
“She had been unable to open that door when she tried before. Today, the door was cracked open. There was no sound coming from inside. Looking cautiously around behind her, Nicola pushed open the door and stepped in. She had already tiptoed deep into the room when she saw Garrett and Drue. Drue was leaning over Garrett’s lifeless body, which was slumped against the wall. Nicola gasped, and Drue spun around to find her staring at him. 'Nicola, come here,’ he ordered, straightening himself up.
Terrified, Nicola began to back away, slowly, step by step, keeping her eyes on Drue. She kept her hand over her mouth to silence a scream as she continued to back away. Drue walked slowly toward her, wiping his hands on a cloth tied around his waist. 'Nicola,’ Drue spoke again as he continued to move toward her, “come here.’”
434 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 13, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
December 13, 2022
A beautiful young woman, living a lovely life, soon finds that life greatly disrupted Lady Nicola Weldon embarks on a perilous road as there are men vying for the throne in England and it becomes Nicola's responsibility to add in Henry Tudor's rise to power.
She makes a very dangerous journey into the heart of conspiracy and the men who would do anything to see that Richard, Duke of Gloucester becomes the next king. Along the way on this journey she is protected by some especially the dashing Drue, who provides both her strength and love interest.
The intrigues, the killing, the presence of magical elements gave this story along with many historical elements an interest factor. However, it was just too long and became somewhat of a laborious read.
Always enjoy when an author tries to embellish history, but in fact this one took an inordinate amount of time and effort to get through. Too much going on sometimes overloads a good story and in this case that as true.
Thank you to Clare Gutierez, River Grove Books, and NetGalley for a copy of this book which published in September o this year.
She makes a very dangerous journey into the heart of conspiracy and the men who would do anything to see that Richard, Duke of Gloucester becomes the next king. Along the way on this journey she is protected by some especially the dashing Drue, who provides both her strength and love interest.
The intrigues, the killing, the presence of magical elements gave this story along with many historical elements an interest factor. However, it was just too long and became somewhat of a laborious read.
Always enjoy when an author tries to embellish history, but in fact this one took an inordinate amount of time and effort to get through. Too much going on sometimes overloads a good story and in this case that as true.
Thank you to Clare Gutierez, River Grove Books, and NetGalley for a copy of this book which published in September o this year.
December 8, 2022
Lady Nicola never planned on becoming a refugee, but after strangers break into her home and her father entrusts her with dangerous secrets, she doesn’t know who to trust. Running from all she’s ever known, she falls in with someone who she isn’t sure is friend or foe, but who promises to take her where she needs to go. Though she doesn’t realize it, the information she has is treasonous and may cause the rise of a new dynasty.
This work is set in England during the tumultuous time preceding Henry Tudor’s reign. Throughout the work, the vast amount of historical research and knowledge the author had was quite apparent. There were many characters (historical figures and fictional) that were incorporated into the plot and subplots and were often somehow connected to each other.
Unfortunately, I think the author was too broad with the scope of this work. The number of characters and the shifting POV made it difficult to keep track of who was doing what when and who they knew and who they were against. The quality of the characters also suffered – I found none of them to be realistic, engaging, or well written, leaving them all feeling bland and interchangeable.
There was a slight magical aspect included in this otherwise very historical work, which was never explained or grounded in any sort of way. It felt out of place and seemed like a convenient way for the author to simply direct the plot where it needed to go. There were also several instances where things just coincidentally fell into place so the plot could continue, which felt like lazy writing.
Overall, this read was lacking in many important elements, which made it difficult to get through or enjoy. My thanks to NetGalley and Greenleaf Book Group for providing me with a copy of this work to review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This work is set in England during the tumultuous time preceding Henry Tudor’s reign. Throughout the work, the vast amount of historical research and knowledge the author had was quite apparent. There were many characters (historical figures and fictional) that were incorporated into the plot and subplots and were often somehow connected to each other.
Unfortunately, I think the author was too broad with the scope of this work. The number of characters and the shifting POV made it difficult to keep track of who was doing what when and who they knew and who they were against. The quality of the characters also suffered – I found none of them to be realistic, engaging, or well written, leaving them all feeling bland and interchangeable.
There was a slight magical aspect included in this otherwise very historical work, which was never explained or grounded in any sort of way. It felt out of place and seemed like a convenient way for the author to simply direct the plot where it needed to go. There were also several instances where things just coincidentally fell into place so the plot could continue, which felt like lazy writing.
Overall, this read was lacking in many important elements, which made it difficult to get through or enjoy. My thanks to NetGalley and Greenleaf Book Group for providing me with a copy of this work to review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
December 28, 2022
4 stars for story, 2 for execution. The main romance felt clumsy. It’s the same problem I had with Bridgerton - the dudes are assholes. Drue is fine at the beginning and end, but he yells at Nicola to just follow his orders all the time. Like, bro, you fell in love with her while she was being herself and now you want her to be completely submissive and different? Doesn’t make sense to me.
The story was also a little long, maybe could’ve tightened up a bit. I did like Nicola though.
The story was also a little long, maybe could’ve tightened up a bit. I did like Nicola though.
January 19, 2023
This book seemed well-researched. But a bit choppy. Set in the very strained times of pre-Tudor England (during the War of the Roses), the novel followed a Lady who fell on the wrong side of the conflict. Given that the "wrong side" of this conflict changed almost hourly, the confusion of the storyline fit. But I just could not keep the storyline straight. 5 stars for the research, but 1 for the flow.
November 28, 2022
Symbol Maker’s Daughter by Clare Gutierrez is a tale of intrigue, mystery and destiny as the fight for the English throne continues. The War of the Roses has been ranging between two houses of the Plantagenets: Lancaster and York since 1455. In 1483, Edward IV died, leaving his throne to his young son, but his ambitious brother, Richard, took the throne in the young boy’s place. Edward’s two sons were placed in the Tower under the guise of their protection. But there is a growing, secret support for another claim to the throne, a young man named Henry Tudor.. Lord Weldon began to have dreams, dreams with vivid images that he recreates the symbols for the images he saw. He entrusts his daughter, Nicola, to deliver these symbols. Nicola sets out on a perilous journey that could be life and death for her and the crossroads of history.
The War of the Roses has always been taught in passing and I know very little how it began or how it ended. This book is the tail end of the war as Richard, Duke of Gloucester, becomes Richard III and meets Henry Tudor on the battlefield. While history already tells us Henry wins the crown to become Henry VII, political alliances, rumors of witchcraft and murder, everyone questions who or what they can trust. History could have been different. Symbol Maker’s Daughter is an interesting take on the events that lead to the end of the War of the Roses. It is a very detailed story with many moving parts. I read the book in about a week, which is a rarity for me. However, because the story was so detailed and intricate, this story requires a slow read to understand the events. I recommend Symbol Maker’s Daughter.
Symbol Maker’s Daughter is available in paperback and eBook
The War of the Roses has always been taught in passing and I know very little how it began or how it ended. This book is the tail end of the war as Richard, Duke of Gloucester, becomes Richard III and meets Henry Tudor on the battlefield. While history already tells us Henry wins the crown to become Henry VII, political alliances, rumors of witchcraft and murder, everyone questions who or what they can trust. History could have been different. Symbol Maker’s Daughter is an interesting take on the events that lead to the end of the War of the Roses. It is a very detailed story with many moving parts. I read the book in about a week, which is a rarity for me. However, because the story was so detailed and intricate, this story requires a slow read to understand the events. I recommend Symbol Maker’s Daughter.
Symbol Maker’s Daughter is available in paperback and eBook
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October 4, 2022Symbol Maker’s Daughter is a romance set in the time just before the emergence of Henry Tudor who will become King Henry VII. The protagonist is a young woman whose father, a jeweler as well as a lord, tasks her with delivering a message to Henry Tudor. The problem is that the message is from the occult, and witches are feared in times in which this books is set.
At 434 pages, Symbol Maker’s Daughter is far too long and too slow. There are too many repetitions of her objective. She is also a TSTL heroine—one who is too stupid to live, endangering not only herself but others as she races off to complete her task without fully thinking things through.
A large cast of characters and a distant point of view keeps the reader from establishing a relationship with any of them, including the protagonist and her love interest, the prince of a fictional country near the Papal States.
There is a wealth of historical detail, however, that sets the scene quite well.
At 434 pages, Symbol Maker’s Daughter is far too long and too slow. There are too many repetitions of her objective. She is also a TSTL heroine—one who is too stupid to live, endangering not only herself but others as she races off to complete her task without fully thinking things through.
A large cast of characters and a distant point of view keeps the reader from establishing a relationship with any of them, including the protagonist and her love interest, the prince of a fictional country near the Papal States.
There is a wealth of historical detail, however, that sets the scene quite well.
October 28, 2022
I’m giving this book five stars for the depth of research and the comprehensive nature of the story. I found the plot fascinating, and though I’m not a history buff, I seem to remember some of this from high school so I’m assuming it was accurate, though some of the characters were fictional.
For the most part, it was well-written and enjoyable. However, at times I found the internal dialogue confusing because the POV switched so often. Because it was told in third-person, I felt like, instead of having the character think something in italics, it would have been less jarring if the narrator simply said what they were thinking. Much of the dialogue was internal, and more of the book was descriptive rather than dialogue-driven. Normally, I might criticize a book for having too much telling and not enough showing, but in this case, it worked. There was much to tell.
Finally, the last thing that bothered me was the romance. It felt forced in the case of Lizzie and Braggio because I felt there was little time for them to fall so deeply in love. On the other hand, the romance between Drue and Nicola felt inevitable. However, Drue’s internal dialogue really bothered me. He was prideful and vindictive. When Nicola told him they could not be together because she didn’t have a high enough social standing, and it was clear that she was fighting back tears, he responded by dismissing her and then plotting how he’d get even with her for hurting him. It’s not the only time he responded to her insecurities by making her feel worse. Meanwhile, he told her he would always protect her. One moment, he admired her for her strength and bravery, but the next, he wanted to subjugate her and bend her to his will. In my opinion, he was a tyrant. Due to external factors, Nicola had little choice when it came to being with him, so it’s lucky for her that she loved him.
As with most historical fiction I read, I reach the end and find myself thankful to have been born during a more progressive time in history. Despite those who wish to drag us back to a time when women were openly disdained and subjugated, I’m hopeful future readers will look back on this time period and be thankful for where they’ve landed.
For the most part, it was well-written and enjoyable. However, at times I found the internal dialogue confusing because the POV switched so often. Because it was told in third-person, I felt like, instead of having the character think something in italics, it would have been less jarring if the narrator simply said what they were thinking. Much of the dialogue was internal, and more of the book was descriptive rather than dialogue-driven. Normally, I might criticize a book for having too much telling and not enough showing, but in this case, it worked. There was much to tell.
Finally, the last thing that bothered me was the romance. It felt forced in the case of Lizzie and Braggio because I felt there was little time for them to fall so deeply in love. On the other hand, the romance between Drue and Nicola felt inevitable. However, Drue’s internal dialogue really bothered me. He was prideful and vindictive. When Nicola told him they could not be together because she didn’t have a high enough social standing, and it was clear that she was fighting back tears, he responded by dismissing her and then plotting how he’d get even with her for hurting him. It’s not the only time he responded to her insecurities by making her feel worse. Meanwhile, he told her he would always protect her. One moment, he admired her for her strength and bravery, but the next, he wanted to subjugate her and bend her to his will. In my opinion, he was a tyrant. Due to external factors, Nicola had little choice when it came to being with him, so it’s lucky for her that she loved him.
As with most historical fiction I read, I reach the end and find myself thankful to have been born during a more progressive time in history. Despite those who wish to drag us back to a time when women were openly disdained and subjugated, I’m hopeful future readers will look back on this time period and be thankful for where they’ve landed.
January 17, 2023
2.5⭐️ rounded up. I was super conflicted on this one and almost abandoned it a couple times. The story was really interesting and kept my attention but there were significant gaps in context to details, I had no concept of the time elapsing, and whenever Drue and Nicola were around each other they both acted like petulant children and I disliked both of them.
I found myself frustrated often with the lack of detail and context, forcing me to re-read sections I thought I must have missed but didn’t. Someone would be riding a horse in once sentence and the next, they would be standing next to someone; details in the scenes were not nearly descriptive enough to paint a good picture; Nicola or others would make judgments about people and you would have no idea why; etc. and then found out towards the end of the book 2 years had apparently lapsed. When?? It just didn’t make a lot of sense.
Also Drue, a skilled assassin/fighter/royalty couldn’t control his explosive temper, freaking out at the very slightest challenge or argument from a women. Not realistic. Someone like that would be forced to have good control over himself, and while sure, could have a temper, he wouldn’t just lose it and stalk off like a toddler immediately. Same for Nicola - she was super naive and foolish and would antagonize Drue with no good sense and also stalk off like a child, however towards the 2nd half of the book she thankfully got better. Overall neither had much grace or kindness towards each other when the slightest difference between them came up, especially Drue.
It just all made the book have points of being obnoxious in what could have been a really great story with tons of potential.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book. All opinions are mine.
I found myself frustrated often with the lack of detail and context, forcing me to re-read sections I thought I must have missed but didn’t. Someone would be riding a horse in once sentence and the next, they would be standing next to someone; details in the scenes were not nearly descriptive enough to paint a good picture; Nicola or others would make judgments about people and you would have no idea why; etc. and then found out towards the end of the book 2 years had apparently lapsed. When?? It just didn’t make a lot of sense.
Also Drue, a skilled assassin/fighter/royalty couldn’t control his explosive temper, freaking out at the very slightest challenge or argument from a women. Not realistic. Someone like that would be forced to have good control over himself, and while sure, could have a temper, he wouldn’t just lose it and stalk off like a toddler immediately. Same for Nicola - she was super naive and foolish and would antagonize Drue with no good sense and also stalk off like a child, however towards the 2nd half of the book she thankfully got better. Overall neither had much grace or kindness towards each other when the slightest difference between them came up, especially Drue.
It just all made the book have points of being obnoxious in what could have been a really great story with tons of potential.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book. All opinions are mine.
October 9, 2022
4/5 stars.
It’s been a while since I’ve read a historical fiction book and this one reminded me why I love that genre.
In my opinion, it reminded me a lot of a Lucy Worsley documentary. More specifically, like the one she did recently with BBC & PBS for Henry VIII’s six wives. It was a mini series that split the time between Lucy telling us the history in her usual entertaining way with specific scenes played out by actors. That is exactly what this book was like. It felt like it was giving me both the broad strokes of the history surrounding the end of the War of the Roses and then would give specific scenes played out. I loved it.
It also reminded me of The Princess Bride with all the sword fighting and sea battles and assassins and politics and true love. Like the Love Interest definitely hit those vibes of “I’ll burn the world down to keep her safe.” The only thing that bugged me was the Love Interest a handful of times saying, oh she used to be this scared girl and now this beautiful and strong woman stands before me. I know she was the age of maturity and barely a year passed throughout this book, but that line sounded weird and a little like grooming. Which it wasn’t. I just didn’t like that line. But I loved him and her together. They were so cute.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and would recommend it to a friend or anyone who loves history or even a fan of Game of Thrones since that series is loosely based off these events.
Thank you to the NetGalley and River Grove Books for providing the ARC for my honest review.
It’s been a while since I’ve read a historical fiction book and this one reminded me why I love that genre.
In my opinion, it reminded me a lot of a Lucy Worsley documentary. More specifically, like the one she did recently with BBC & PBS for Henry VIII’s six wives. It was a mini series that split the time between Lucy telling us the history in her usual entertaining way with specific scenes played out by actors. That is exactly what this book was like. It felt like it was giving me both the broad strokes of the history surrounding the end of the War of the Roses and then would give specific scenes played out. I loved it.
It also reminded me of The Princess Bride with all the sword fighting and sea battles and assassins and politics and true love. Like the Love Interest definitely hit those vibes of “I’ll burn the world down to keep her safe.” The only thing that bugged me was the Love Interest a handful of times saying, oh she used to be this scared girl and now this beautiful and strong woman stands before me. I know she was the age of maturity and barely a year passed throughout this book, but that line sounded weird and a little like grooming. Which it wasn’t. I just didn’t like that line. But I loved him and her together. They were so cute.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and would recommend it to a friend or anyone who loves history or even a fan of Game of Thrones since that series is loosely based off these events.
Thank you to the NetGalley and River Grove Books for providing the ARC for my honest review.
October 7, 2022
I have read many novels in this time period before Henry Tudor takes the throne so I already knew the battle brewing. I love the mysterious disappearance of the princes in the tower so I thought this book would be right up my alley. This is the story of Nicola. Her father is killed and she must tell Henry Tudor that her father prophesied that he would be King. Henry must not give up the throne to his Uncle Richard. I liked the premise but the story was too long and meandering. Not much was really happening. They just kept traveling here and there. There was a lot of repetition that an editor should have caught. The reader would be told what happens to someone convicted of treason, and then a few paragraphs later we are told the exact same thing. Nicola tells Lizzie she must get to where the battle will take place because her man will not survive without her, then a few paragraphs later, she says he will survive but she still must go. Then when Nicola gets to the battlefield she asks Lizzie what she is doing there. What?! Diablo is looking for Nicola. He talks with Kelly and tells her Nicola would be traveling alone. Then a few sentences later, he tells Kelly she might be alone or she might be with someone. There were just contradictions everywhere. The story just dragged and Diablo's character was pointless and so was the romance. I cared more about the Henry and Richard chapters the most.
June 25, 2023
The Symbol Maker’as Daughter by Clare Gutierrez
436 Pages
Publisher: Greenleaf Book Group, River Grove Books
Release Date: September 13, 2022
Fiction, Historical Fiction, British History, Monarchy, Royalty
Nicola Weldon lives with her father in Weldon Castle near the ocean. Lord Weldon was a seer and had predictions of future events. He created two stones with markings and gemstones but did not know their meaning. He takes Nicola on a trip into the woods to meet a crone. She also has the vision and confirms Lord Weldon thoughts. Soon after the castle is attacked and Nicola with a maid escape along the cliffside hidden from the attackers.
They come across men that call themselves the Guardians and tell them they will provide safe passage for them. Nicola is young and naïve but has trouble believing these men are who they say they are. This begins her travels to deliver the two symbols to Henry Tudor and his mother, Margaret, Duchess of Burgundy.
The story has a slow pace with a lot of time of contemplation. The characters are well developed, and it is written in the third person point of view. I enjoyed this book, and the historical events appear to be accurate, but I believe the story could have been shortened. There is a bit of everything: action, adventure, romance, violence, and murder. If you like historical fiction pertaining to the British monarchy, you may enjoy this book.
436 Pages
Publisher: Greenleaf Book Group, River Grove Books
Release Date: September 13, 2022
Fiction, Historical Fiction, British History, Monarchy, Royalty
Nicola Weldon lives with her father in Weldon Castle near the ocean. Lord Weldon was a seer and had predictions of future events. He created two stones with markings and gemstones but did not know their meaning. He takes Nicola on a trip into the woods to meet a crone. She also has the vision and confirms Lord Weldon thoughts. Soon after the castle is attacked and Nicola with a maid escape along the cliffside hidden from the attackers.
They come across men that call themselves the Guardians and tell them they will provide safe passage for them. Nicola is young and naïve but has trouble believing these men are who they say they are. This begins her travels to deliver the two symbols to Henry Tudor and his mother, Margaret, Duchess of Burgundy.
The story has a slow pace with a lot of time of contemplation. The characters are well developed, and it is written in the third person point of view. I enjoyed this book, and the historical events appear to be accurate, but I believe the story could have been shortened. There is a bit of everything: action, adventure, romance, violence, and murder. If you like historical fiction pertaining to the British monarchy, you may enjoy this book.
October 1, 2022
Symbol Maker's Daughter takes us back in time to the world of King Richard's court and all the intrigue that occurred. The journey of a young woman by her father forces her into a life of danger to deliver the symbols he has dreamed to Henry Tudor. The battle between Richard, Duke of Gloucester, and Henry Tudor divides a country as to who will be the King of England. Lady Nicola Weldon endeavors to follow the request of her father to ensure the Tudor dynasty.
Nicola will be tested to the depths of her beliefs and strengths as Drue fights to keep her safe and in order to do his duty to his brother, the King of Vieneto. These two will have many challenges to ahead of them as their future is changing before their eyes.
I really enjoyed this book. I am drawn to stories of the past involving this time period. The addition of the 'Symbol Maker' is a great twist to the story where the belief of heretics and witches is a constant fear or threat. The writing is wonderful, and the characters are well developed as well as strong. They would have to be during this time period. The story is rich with details of history but woven with fiction to make it a wonderfully believable story.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
Nicola will be tested to the depths of her beliefs and strengths as Drue fights to keep her safe and in order to do his duty to his brother, the King of Vieneto. These two will have many challenges to ahead of them as their future is changing before their eyes.
I really enjoyed this book. I am drawn to stories of the past involving this time period. The addition of the 'Symbol Maker' is a great twist to the story where the belief of heretics and witches is a constant fear or threat. The writing is wonderful, and the characters are well developed as well as strong. They would have to be during this time period. The story is rich with details of history but woven with fiction to make it a wonderfully believable story.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
November 6, 2022
This is a historical fantasy set in England in 1483. There are premonitions of dangerous times ahead. And then sure enough, the king is dead, and the crown is up for grabs. The story follows the “symbol maker’s daughter” on her dangerous quest, and our petulant heroine is also involved in a ‘taming of the shrew’ type of romance.
I found this difficult to get into. It may have helped if I’d had a better knowledge of British history, (beyond what I learnt from Black Adder), as I found it hard to keep track of the many characters and who they were supposed to be loyal to. I don’t care for fantasy, so I could have done without the telepathic communication and the predictions, though the latter are the basis for the story’s premise (which I didn’t really buy into).
The writing was grammatically fine, but the storyline had too many unbelievable coincidences for me. (E.g., numerous separate characters all conveniently go straight to the same London establishment, as if there is only one in the whole city). This was in addition to the lack of logic at times and the uneven pacing. I finally gave up at 60 %. I won a free copy of this book (thanks to the author & publisher!) and am voluntarily providing an honest review.
I found this difficult to get into. It may have helped if I’d had a better knowledge of British history, (beyond what I learnt from Black Adder), as I found it hard to keep track of the many characters and who they were supposed to be loyal to. I don’t care for fantasy, so I could have done without the telepathic communication and the predictions, though the latter are the basis for the story’s premise (which I didn’t really buy into).
The writing was grammatically fine, but the storyline had too many unbelievable coincidences for me. (E.g., numerous separate characters all conveniently go straight to the same London establishment, as if there is only one in the whole city). This was in addition to the lack of logic at times and the uneven pacing. I finally gave up at 60 %. I won a free copy of this book (thanks to the author & publisher!) and am voluntarily providing an honest review.
October 19, 2022
This was an interesting historical fiction book set around the tumultuous period of time between the death of King Edward IV and the crowning of King Henry VII. The author weaves in a fictional character with ties to the occult to create a very broad and ambitious story that covers the two years between Edward's death and Henry's rise as the King and first Tudor monarch.
I don't know a ton about that particular time in England, but was fascinated by the amount of research that appeared to go into the story with the descriptions of the people, clothing, fighting styles, weapons, and political intrigue.
My chief criticisms of the book were the fact that there were so many different perspectives - made it really convoluted, the sometimes overly coincidental plot points (everyone knew someone at the exactly right time to help the main character), and there also was a great deal of telling rather than showing which dragged the flow of the story down. But overall it is not a bad book, just not really my preference.
3.5 stars/5 stars
I received a free advance reader copy from NetGalley and am freely leaving my honest opinion.
I don't know a ton about that particular time in England, but was fascinated by the amount of research that appeared to go into the story with the descriptions of the people, clothing, fighting styles, weapons, and political intrigue.
My chief criticisms of the book were the fact that there were so many different perspectives - made it really convoluted, the sometimes overly coincidental plot points (everyone knew someone at the exactly right time to help the main character), and there also was a great deal of telling rather than showing which dragged the flow of the story down. But overall it is not a bad book, just not really my preference.
3.5 stars/5 stars
I received a free advance reader copy from NetGalley and am freely leaving my honest opinion.
December 1, 2022
Lady Nicola Weldon was shocked with the death of Garret and the big question, did Cruz do it? Nicola showed her bravery by embarking on a journey to ensure of Henry Vll's reign after the death of King Edwards.
I was looking forward to reading reading the a novel that focused on the subject of the Tudor era and my interests was peaked with the death of King Edward. The author did diligent with the research of the novel., which I enjoyed.
The War of The Roses took place 100 years after the civil war, which occurred in order to gain control of the throne. The War of The Roses was a fight between houses of Plantagenets, Lancaster, and York. This reminds me of the popular series "The Game of Thrones". There is much literature on the subject of Richard ll including Shakespeare's Richard and Dante's placement of him into the circle of hell for the murder of his nephews.
Although the subject of the Tudor' and The War of The Roses was an interest of mine, unfortunately I lost interest with the novel, and it was difficult to stay engaged towards the ending.
Thank you NetGalley for the privilege of reading the novel and I wrote an honest review.
I was looking forward to reading reading the a novel that focused on the subject of the Tudor era and my interests was peaked with the death of King Edward. The author did diligent with the research of the novel., which I enjoyed.
The War of The Roses took place 100 years after the civil war, which occurred in order to gain control of the throne. The War of The Roses was a fight between houses of Plantagenets, Lancaster, and York. This reminds me of the popular series "The Game of Thrones". There is much literature on the subject of Richard ll including Shakespeare's Richard and Dante's placement of him into the circle of hell for the murder of his nephews.
Although the subject of the Tudor' and The War of The Roses was an interest of mine, unfortunately I lost interest with the novel, and it was difficult to stay engaged towards the ending.
Thank you NetGalley for the privilege of reading the novel and I wrote an honest review.
December 29, 2022
I loved this story. It is set during the war of the roses in the time when King Edward IV dies and Henry Tudor becomes king. I love historical fiction in these time periods but most that I find is set during the era of Henry VIII or Elizabeth I. I enjoyed a new perspective on this time period. I found the history part to be accurate. The author certainly did their homework into the time period. This story is a combination of mystery, action and romance. It tells the tale of Nicola whose father saw symbols in his dreams and made jewelry with the symbols. He hides a symbol that predicts the future and knows he needs to share it with Henry Tudor. His home is invaded and he is captured and tortured to death leaving his task to his daughter Nicola. This is the story of how Nicola gets the symbol to Henry and ensures what is meant to be happens. Along the way she grows up and finds love. This is a great read for anyone who is a fan of the Phillipa Gregory Boleyn novels. The setting is a different time period but tells a great story.
November 15, 2022
Set in the 1400s, the Symbol Maker’s Daughter is an historical story beginning with the struggle to remove King Richard from the throne of England. Lord Weldon, also a jeweler he created a fine piece of jewelry that foretells the future demise of King Richard and his heirs and the beginning of the Tudor reign with Henry Tudor, King Henry VII. When Lord Weldon’s home is seized an his death is eminent, he asks that his daughter Nicola take the jewelry directly to Henry Tudor and show him that his destiny is to become King of England. Nicola faces many obstacles along the way not the least of which is that she is the assumption that she is a witch bringing a message from the unknown. Enter a young mercenary Drue, that is actually prince from a fictional country. There is danger at every twist and turn and of a budding course romance between Drue and Nicola. A bit lengthy but the book has a great deal historical detail to make it interesting.
October 4, 2022
The #SymbolMakersDaughter was a miss for me as the pacing was way too slow. There’s a lot going on in this story as Henry and Richard fight for the right to be king of England, but the large cast of characters is difficult to keep straight. The story kept bouncing around from the Yorks and their supporters to the Tudors and their supporters. I never really felt engaged with the main characters. In tone and language, it is seemed more targeted to a YA audience.
Also confused as to why Nicola is referred to as Lady Weldon. My understanding is that Lady Weldon would be a title for married woman (i.e. Nicola’s mother while she was alive). If Nicola had a title, as an unmarried daughter, it would be Lady Nicola. Maybe things were different in the 1400s.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #GreenleafBookGr for the ARC.
Also confused as to why Nicola is referred to as Lady Weldon. My understanding is that Lady Weldon would be a title for married woman (i.e. Nicola’s mother while she was alive). If Nicola had a title, as an unmarried daughter, it would be Lady Nicola. Maybe things were different in the 1400s.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #GreenleafBookGr for the ARC.
October 4, 2022
After the death of King Edward, London becomes a location full of lawlessness. The tower is busy, not in a good way. Other times the strain and stress of frightened imaginations make life dreadful every hour. One woman named Nicola is left with nothing after her father's death. Her father gives her an important errand. The important duty becomes very dangerous. Her one goal, because of the promise, must lead her thoughts only to seeing a contender for the throne, Henry.
Thank goodness for friends who are reliable and loyal.Claire Gutierrez's characters are like people you might know. This makes the "Symbol Maker's Daughter" seem like it is happening today. By the way, what are those symbols? Maybe they are secret love letters or hidden money. For now it is time to run and hide deeper in the forest's darkness.
Thank goodness for friends who are reliable and loyal.Claire Gutierrez's characters are like people you might know. This makes the "Symbol Maker's Daughter" seem like it is happening today. By the way, what are those symbols? Maybe they are secret love letters or hidden money. For now it is time to run and hide deeper in the forest's darkness.
October 10, 2022
I'm fascinated by this time period and by historical stories in general. You could tell the author absolutely studied this time period since there was so much history in the book! I love books that make me keep my computer opened to a search engine so I can check out some of the historical facts presented. Amazing.
Having said that, I wasn't as enamored with the book on a complete story scale. A death bed request to get 'symbols' to Henry Tudor, leads Nicola on a trek. Lots of traveling, lots of different places, lots of words. This book was long, a bit tedious at times, and repetitive.
I loved the historical perspective. For me, the beginning was a bit confusing and although it kind of straightened out as I read along, the book could have been shorter without sacrificing the story.
Having said that, I wasn't as enamored with the book on a complete story scale. A death bed request to get 'symbols' to Henry Tudor, leads Nicola on a trek. Lots of traveling, lots of different places, lots of words. This book was long, a bit tedious at times, and repetitive.
I loved the historical perspective. For me, the beginning was a bit confusing and although it kind of straightened out as I read along, the book could have been shorter without sacrificing the story.
July 24, 2023
After the death of King Edward, London becomes a location full of lawlessness. The tower is busy, not in a good way. Other times the strain and stress of frightened imaginations make life dreadful every hour. One woman named Nicola is left with nothing after her father's death. Her father gives her an important errand. The important duty becomes very dangerous. Her one goal, because of the promise, must lead her thoughts only to seeing a contender for the throne, Henry.
Thank goodness for friends who are reliable and loyal.Claire Gutierrez's characters are like people you might know. This makes the "Symbol Maker's Daughter" seem like it is happening today. By the way, what are those symbols? Maybe they are secret love letters or hidden money. For now it is time to run and hide deeper in the forest's darkness.
Thank goodness for friends who are reliable and loyal.Claire Gutierrez's characters are like people you might know. This makes the "Symbol Maker's Daughter" seem like it is happening today. By the way, what are those symbols? Maybe they are secret love letters or hidden money. For now it is time to run and hide deeper in the forest's darkness.
November 20, 2023
Loved this historical fiction by Clare Gutierrez. The story of Nicola and Drue is told over several years during a period of political upheaval as Nicola’s father has visions of the future and gives his daughter the daunting task of ensuring those visions, told through symbols, lands in the right hands. Nicola must avoid those accusing her of treason or being a heretic with the help of Drue. Through their journey they begin to depend on one another and share secrets that test their limits and change their lives forever. Although the story seemed to happen in a matter of weeks, comments indicate the timeframe was over several years. Details about significant characters were also missing leaving unanswered questions but overall it was a great story. Would recommend for those who enjoy historical fiction and love stories. #NetGalley #RiverGroveBooks #ClareGutierrez
October 11, 2022
I love historical fiction. And I do not know a lot about this period in history so was excited to get this ARC from Netgalley. I must admit, I was not immediately drawn in and almost stopped reading. But I journeyed on and was soon drawn into the worlds of Nicola, Drue, Henry Tudor, King Richard, and the entire cast of characters. Interspersed with the political drama is a love story that at times had me pulling out my hair at the stupidity of the two main characters yet I couldn’t top reading. Just as an aside, I felt the ending was satisfying and the epilogue added nothing and was totally unnecessary. Overall a satisfying read which made me want to learn more about this historical period. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 24, 2022
I was most impressed by the expansive scope of history packed into Symbol Maker's Daughter. Having a general understanding of Henry Tudor's claim to the throne and characters involved helped me better stay on track. However, when so many women were named Elizabeth or Margaret and you add in some fictional characters it can be tricky to follow. This would be a good book to have a list of characters available for quick reference. Overall I thought Nicola and Drue's relationship was well developed and the mysticism/foretelling was masterfully woven in through core of the book. I appreciated how this added a new layer to an often told story during the War of the Roses. -I was provided a copy of this book to review by Netgalley.
November 21, 2022
Symbol Maker's Daughter is historical fiction set in England during the 1400s. After losing her family and her home, Lady Nicola Weldon must travel around Europe to deliver something precious to Henry Tudor, one of the men vying for the crown of England. Along the way, she is hunted by those who would prevent her from completing her mission, while others seek to help her.
The parts of this novel that I enjoyed the most were the historical elements regarding the crown of England and the fight between Richard and Henry Tudor, as well as the mystical elements of visions and prophecies. The romance felt a bit stiff, and the novel was longer than it felt like it needed to be, but overall, I still enjoyed reading it.
The parts of this novel that I enjoyed the most were the historical elements regarding the crown of England and the fight between Richard and Henry Tudor, as well as the mystical elements of visions and prophecies. The romance felt a bit stiff, and the novel was longer than it felt like it needed to be, but overall, I still enjoyed reading it.
August 17, 2023
Symbol Maker’s Daughter is set during the War of the Roses.
Lord Weldon began having dreams and he recreates the symbols he sees in these dreams in pieces of jewelry. When his home is seized and he is imprisoned in his dungeon he enlists his daughter Nicola to bring the pieces to Henry Tudor. Nicola, honoring her Father’s wishes escaped the house and sets out to deliver these symbols on a perilous journey.
While on the journey, she receives help from a cast of characters most notably Dru a prince from a neighboring country and Lizzie a young woman who has not had a privileged life.
A slow read but a wealth of history, some romance, fear of witchcraft and murder. I received this novel from NetGalley in exchange for a review.
Lord Weldon began having dreams and he recreates the symbols he sees in these dreams in pieces of jewelry. When his home is seized and he is imprisoned in his dungeon he enlists his daughter Nicola to bring the pieces to Henry Tudor. Nicola, honoring her Father’s wishes escaped the house and sets out to deliver these symbols on a perilous journey.
While on the journey, she receives help from a cast of characters most notably Dru a prince from a neighboring country and Lizzie a young woman who has not had a privileged life.
A slow read but a wealth of history, some romance, fear of witchcraft and murder. I received this novel from NetGalley in exchange for a review.
August 17, 2023
Symbol Maker’s Daughter is set during the War of the Roses.
Lord Weldon began having dreams and he recreates the symbols he sees in these dreams in pieces of jewelry. When his home is seized and he is imprisoned in his dungeon he enlists his daughter Nicola to bring the pieces to Henry Tudor. Nicola, honoring her Father’s wishes escaped the house and sets out to deliver these symbols on a perilous journey.
While on the journey, she receives help from a cast of characters most notably Dru a prince from a neighboring country and Lizzie a young woman who has not had a privileged life.
A slow read but a wealth of history, some romance, fear of witchcraft and murder. I received this novel from NetGalley in exchange for a review.
Lord Weldon began having dreams and he recreates the symbols he sees in these dreams in pieces of jewelry. When his home is seized and he is imprisoned in his dungeon he enlists his daughter Nicola to bring the pieces to Henry Tudor. Nicola, honoring her Father’s wishes escaped the house and sets out to deliver these symbols on a perilous journey.
While on the journey, she receives help from a cast of characters most notably Dru a prince from a neighboring country and Lizzie a young woman who has not had a privileged life.
A slow read but a wealth of history, some romance, fear of witchcraft and murder. I received this novel from NetGalley in exchange for a review.
November 15, 2022
I didn’t know much about this era, but I do sure love it!
Nicola, the symbol makers daughter, is entrusted by her now deceased father to carry a message to Henry Tudor. Henry Tudor is not the reigning king…at least not yet. The message isn’t an easy one to give to Henry, but she does her best.
I liked Nicola. I liked how strong and determined she was. She knew she needed to do this for her father and to help the English crown. The story was very clearly researched. I don’t know much about this time period, but I definitely want to know more, especially after reading this.
ARC provided by Netgalley for an honest review
Nicola, the symbol makers daughter, is entrusted by her now deceased father to carry a message to Henry Tudor. Henry Tudor is not the reigning king…at least not yet. The message isn’t an easy one to give to Henry, but she does her best.
I liked Nicola. I liked how strong and determined she was. She knew she needed to do this for her father and to help the English crown. The story was very clearly researched. I don’t know much about this time period, but I definitely want to know more, especially after reading this.
ARC provided by Netgalley for an honest review
January 30, 2023
Leaving a legacy
The story of one boys rise to the throne. Raised as an outcast Prince Henry is given the chance to rise up and take the throne. Nicola is the daughter of a symbol maker that has other powers. Drue is a prince that will one day take over from his brother. The three of them need each other but have never met, and will need to learn who to trust. This book seemed unnecessarily long. I felt it would never end because the author wanted to add six other stories with fifteen new character in nine locations with four plot twists. All of which just made this book drag on and on.
#GoodreadsGiveaway
The story of one boys rise to the throne. Raised as an outcast Prince Henry is given the chance to rise up and take the throne. Nicola is the daughter of a symbol maker that has other powers. Drue is a prince that will one day take over from his brother. The three of them need each other but have never met, and will need to learn who to trust. This book seemed unnecessarily long. I felt it would never end because the author wanted to add six other stories with fifteen new character in nine locations with four plot twists. All of which just made this book drag on and on.
#GoodreadsGiveaway
October 5, 2022
Symbol Makers Daughter by Clare Gutierrez takes you to the 1480s just before Henry Tudor becomes King. Lady Nicola Wealdon is entrusted by her father to carry a message to Henry. This is the story of said adventure. Historical fiction is my favorite genre and this read is awesome! A lot of research went into this. Very accurate description of scenery, events and landscape. The characters and their thoughts and feelings are well described. I highly recommend and will look into other books by this author. Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to review this book.
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