I was completely captivated Barbara ErskineThe spellbinding new historical novel from the Sunday Times bestseller Anne OBrien.England, 1444. Three women challenge the course of historyKing Henry VIs grip on the crown hangs by a thread as the Wars of the Roses starts to tear England apart. And from the ashes of war, the House of Paston begins its rise to power.Led by three visionary women, the Pastons are a family from humble peasant beginnings who rely upon cunning, raw ambition, and good fortune in order to survive.Their ability to plot and scheme sees them overcome imprisonment, violence and betrayal, to eventually secure for their family a castle and a place at the heart of the Yorkist Court. But success breeds jealousy and brings them dangerous enemiesAn inspirational story of courage and resilience, The Royal Game, charts the rise of three remarkable women from obscurity to the very heart of Court politics and intrigue.
I was completely captivated' Barbara Erskine The spellbinding new historical novel from the Sunday Times bestseller Anne O'Brien. England, 1444. Three women challenge the course of history...King Henry VI's grip on the crown hangs by a thread as the Wars of the Roses starts to tear England apart. And from the ashes of war, the House of Paston begins its rise to power. Led by three visionary women, the Pastons are a family from humble peasant beginnings who rely upon cunning, raw ambition, and good fortune in order to survive.Their ability to plot and scheme sees them overcome imprisonment, violence and betrayal, to eventually secure for their family a castle and a place at the heart of the Yorkist Court. But success breeds jealousy and brings them dangerous enemies... An inspirational story of courage and resilience, The Royal Game, charts the rise of three remarkable women from obscurity to the very heart of Court politics and intrigue.'A wonderfully immersive and intriguing read, meticulously researched. I was completely captivated' Barbara Erskine
England, 1459. One family united by blood. Torn apart by war The Wars of the Roses storm through the country, and Cecily Neville, Duchess of York, plots to topple the weak-minded King Henry VI from the throne. But when the Yorkists are defeated at the battle of Ludford Bridge, Cecilys family flee and abandon her to face a marauding Lancastrian army on her own. Stripped of her lands and imprisoned in Tonbridge Castle, the Duchess begins to spin a web of deceit. One that will eventually lead to treason, to the fall of King Henry VI, and to her eldest son being crowned King Edward IV.
Her children or her crown France, 1399: The Duke of Brittany is dead and his widow, Joanna of Navarre, has inherited control of their land - a testament to her intellect, integrity and political prowess. Then comes an unprecedented proposal from Henry IV, King of England. The price of becoming his Queen? Abandoning her homeland, leaving her children and sacrificing her independence. Henry's hold on the crown is unsteady and war is brewing. With the constant threat of rebellion, Henry will trust no-one - not even his new Queen. Crossing the channel is a dangerous prospect. But the union between Joanna and Henry would bring the chance of a vital alliance between two proud states - if they will allow it. One question. Two paths. A choice that will make history. Praise for The Queen's Choice 'A gem of a subject ...O'Brien is a terrific storyteller' - Daily Telegraph 'Joanna of Navarre is the feisty heroine in Anne O'Brien's fast-paced historical novel The Queen's Choice.' -Good Housekeeping 'A gripping story of love, heartache and political intrigue.' -Woman & Home 'Packed with drama, danger, romance and history.' -Pam Norfolk, for the Press Association 'A gripping historical drama.' -Bella www.anneobrien.co.uk @anne_obrien