Book Review: The Queen of Last Hopes by Susan Higginbotham

The Queen of Last Hopes by Susan Higginbotham

Publish Date: January 2010

Format: Paperback pp

Synopsis (From the Publisher):

"A man other than my husband sits on England's throne today.

What would happen if this king suddenly went mad? What would his queen do? Would she make the same mistakes I did, or would she learn from mine?

Margaret of Anjou, queen of England, cannot give up on her husband-even when he slips into insanity. And as mother to the House of Lancaster's last hope, she cannot give up on her son-even when England turns against them. This gripping tale of a queen forced to stand strong in the face of overwhelming odds is at its heart a tender tale of love.

Award-winning author Susan Higginbotham will once again ask readers to question everything they know about right and wrong, compassion and hope, duty to one's country and the desire of one's own heart."


My Review:

When it comes to the Wars of the Roses, there are always a couple questions that come to mind: are you of a Yorkist or a Lancasterian opinion? Did Richard III kill the princes in the tower? Was Richard III a corrupt and merciless man? These questions are often the focus of many historical novels set during this time period, and it is not very often that a book is written with an emphasis of how it all began. The Queen of Last Hopes begins with Margaret of Anjou preparing to leave for England, where she will become the Queen of King Henry VI. Margaret is just 15 when she sets sail for England, and she is full of hope and determination to bring peace to the English and French people. Unfortunately, she quickly learns that the her striving to enter the political world, no matter how good her intentions might be, only leads to bitterness from the English people and slander against her name. Despite these unsavory results, Margaret is no less determined in defending her crown when the House of York tries to dethrone her husband and take away her sons birthright.

Being of a Yorkist opinion myself, I was quite surprised by how well Hgginbotham made me soften to the Lancasterian cause. Told from a first person perspective, Margaret becomes more than just a strong willed and "she-wolf" character, instead she becomes a woman desperate for peace, deeply in love, and above all, a protective mother. It was this method of writing that really made me feel a strong connection to those who fought for the House of Lancaster. Higginbotham also did a wonderful job of creating a lovable character out of King Henry VI. Of course Henry was still a weak king and on the verge of madness, but he was also a loving husband and a man who knew he didn't live up to his predecessors reign, which resulted in my heart going out to his plight and creating a better opinion of the Lancasters.

The Queen of Last Hopes is written in great historical detail, and delivers an exceptional telling of one of the most controversial time periods in history. With subtle wit, heart wrenching events and life-like characters, you will finish the novel only wanting more of this talented author.

Book Review: The Lady's Slipper by Deborah Swift

Publish Date: November 2010

Format: Paperback 464pp

Synopsis: (From the Publisher)

"1660. King Charles II has returned from exile, but memories of the English Civil War still rankle. There are old scores to settle, and religious differences threaten to overturn a fragile peace. When Alice Ibbetson discovers a rare orchid, the Lady’s Slipper, growing in a wood belonging to Richard Wheeler, she is captivated by its beauty— though Wheeler, a Quaker, is determined to keep the flower where God intended it to grow. Knowing that the orchid is the last of its kind, she steals the flower, little dreaming that her seemingly simple act will set off a chain of events that will lead to murder and exile, and change her life forever…"

My Review:

Alice Ibbetson has known much sorrow in her life: from the tragic loss of her family home during the war, quickly followed by her parents death and then the loss of her beloved sister soon after. With all of this tragedy, Alice thought she had endured every hardship possible; that is until her bleak life is thrown into great chaos by one small act of deception.

 Fearing retribution, Alice desperately attempts to conceal her secret from all, but when her lies begin to bring danger to those around her, she realizes that nothing can be kept secret forever or come without a price. As the lives of three people are intertwined through her wrong deed, Alice must learn how to save them all before her lies destroy them.

With her debut novel, The Lady's Slipper, Deborah Swift has definitely proven her talent in writing historical fiction! From beginning to end the story flowed with perfect rhythm and intrigue. While the plot was not fast paced, it never once left me wanting to hurry on to the next chapter. The characters were vastly deferent and confident opinions could be made of them all. My favorite part of this novel was how easily the author could make you feel as if you were really walking through the woods as Alice went on her secretive missions. At these times, the tone changed to a sense of trepidation mixed with thrill, you could almost feel the silence surrounding you deep within the woods. The only part of this novel that I felt a bit lacking was the romantic relationship between Wheeler and Alice. While I knew their differences must be settled in the end and the two truly cared for each other, I wish there had been a bit more build up to the realization of their feelings instead of it being so rushed at the end. Besides this little quibble, I am completely thrilled with this new author and I can't wait to see what delights she will write for us in the future!

FTC: I received this book from the publisher. As always, these are my own honest opinions. 

Book Review: Dark Road to Darjeeling by Deanna Raybourn

Publish Date: October 2010

Format: Paperback 388pp

Synopsis (From the Publisher):

"After eight idyllic months in the Mediterranean, Lady Julia Grey and her detective husband are ready to put their investigative talents to work once more. At the urging of Julia's eccentric family, they hurry to India to aid an old friend, the newly widowed Jane Cavendish. Living on the Cavendish tea plantation with the remnants of her husband's family, Jane is consumed with the impending birth of her child—and with discovering the truth about her husband's death. Was he murdered for his estate? And if he was, could Jane and her unborn child be next?

Amid the lush foothills of the Himalayas, dark deeds are buried and malicious thoughts flourish. The Brisbanes uncover secrets and scandal, illicit affairs and twisted legacies. In this remote and exotic place, exploration is perilous and discovery, deadly. The danger is palpable and, if they are not careful, Julia and Nicholas will not live to celebrate their first anniversary."

My Review:

Towards the end of an extended honeymoon, Lady Julia and her husband Brisbaine have the unexpected displeasure of being tracked down by two of Julia's siblings. Persuaded by her sister Portia, Julia and Brisbaine embark upon a journey to the Himalayas in hopes of supporting the newly widowed and family friend, Jane Cavendish. Although Portia's described motive's might seem earnest, Julia soon derives the true purpose of their journey: to investigate the possible murder of Jane's husband and therefore possibly saving Jane from the same untimely end. 

Julia, always having been one prone to seek out adventure and prove her detective potential to Brisbaine, sets out against Brisbaine's wishes in order to solve this mystery. Confident in her skills, Julia has no hesitation in pursuing the murderer, but just as she begins to piece together the mystery it all begins to unravel at an alarming rate. Julia must decipher the chaos that surrounds her quickly, for in a place where secrets are dark and the villains enchanting, she just might easily be the next victim. 

I have always enjoyed the Julia Grey series, and this one is no exception! The story starts out at a moderate pace and gradually gains momentum as the story unfolds, allowing the reader enough time to process the clues and solve the mystery. Of course, as soon as you begin to unravel the mystery, the plot takes off at an unbelievable rate with the plot twisting and turning, much to the readers delight. I read the last half of this book in one sitting, and was shocked by some of the plot twist revelations. If you are looking for a Victorian Era mystery that will have you engaged and guessing the whole time, I highly recommend this book. I am definitely looking forward to Deanna Raybourn's next installment in this series!

FTC: I received this book from the publisher. As always, these are my own honest opinions. 

Book Review: For the King's Favor by Elizabeth Chadwick

Publish Date: September 2010

Format: Paperback 544pp

Synopsis: (From the Publisher)

"A Bittersweet Tale of Love, Loss, and the Power of Royalty.

When Roger Bigod arrives at King Henry II's court to settle a bitter inheritance dispute, he becomes enchanted with Ida de Tosney, young mistress to the powerful king. A victim of Henry's seduction and the mother of his son, Ida sees in Roger a chance to begin a new life. But Ida pays an agonizing price when she leaves the king, and as Roger's importance grows and he gains an earldom, their marriage comes under increasing strain. Based on the true story of a royal mistress and the young lord she chose to marry, For the King's Favor is Elizabeth Chadwick at her best."

My Review:

In Elizabeth Chadwick's latest novel, For the King's Favor, we find a captivating story of honor, duty and love....

Rodger Bigod, the unwanted son of a traitorous Earl, finds himself with a weighty decision: be loyal to his father or his king. Choosing the path he deems most honorable, Rodger devotes his life to the service of King Henry II. Although Rodger swears his allegiance and proves his merit in battle, he quickly learns it will take more than that to claim his inheritance and erase the shame his father brought on the Bigod name.

During his stay at court, Rodger is besotted with the young and beautiful Ida de Tosney, none other than the King's beloved mistress. Despite Ida's life of luxury and honor as the King's mistress, she longs for a peaceful and respectable life away from court. As she grows more confidant in her power of having the king's favor, she devises a plan that will possibly lead her to the life she has always dreamed of.

With a sudden twist of fate, Rodger and Ida find themselves able to make a new life for themselves. Undaunted by the knowledge of the trials that lie before them, they embark on life's journey together with high hopes and strong determination to finally claim everything that was so unjustly taken from them. Alas, the trials are more perilous than anticipated and their happy world is soon torn asunder. With uncertainty and turmoil at every turn, they begin to fear their hard hard work is for naught, because when a king is the lord of everything, what price can one pay to earn the favor of a king?


Elizabeth Chadwick has once again weaved a work of art with her vivid descriptions and ability to tell a most captivating tale. From the ripples cast in a pond at dusk to the warmth felt from a sun warmed stone, this story comes alive from the moment you read the first page! All of the characters were well rounded and had very distinct personalities. As usual, with Chadwick's writing style, the villains were ugly and intense emotion was felt for the main characters. The one thing that held this book back from receiving 5 crowns was the intensity of the plot. After reaching the halfway point of the book, I was still waiting for that crazy moment where everything falls to pieces and the plot twists and jerks you around; and I still found myself looking for that up until the end. That being said, the plot was indeed well thought out and was never dull. Overall this is yet another must read for any Chadwick fan or lover of historical fiction. I will definitely be reading anything I can find by this extremely talented author!



FTC: I received this book from the publisher. As always, these are my own honest opinions.

Book Review: The Rules of Gentility by Janet Mullany

Synopsis: (From the Publisher)

 "Regency heiress Philomena Wellesley-Clegg has rather strong opinions about men and clothing. As to the former, so far two lords, a viscount, and a mad poet have fallen far short of her expectations. But she is about to meet Inigo Linsley, an unshaven, wickedly handsome man with a scandalous secret. He's nothing she ever dreamed she'd want—why then can she not stop thinking about how he looks in his breeches?

A delightful marriage of Pride and Prejudice with Bridget Jones's Diary, Janet Mullany's The Rules of Gentility transports us to the days before designer shoes, apple martinis, and speed dating—when great bonnets, punch at Almack's, and the marriage mart were in fashion—and captivates us with a winsome heroine who learns that some rules in society are made to be broken."

My Review:

Philomena Wellesley and Inigo Linsley are two very opinionated people who have a certain dislike for each other from the start. Although they might irritate one another, they do have one thing in common, the desire to evade their disagreeable marriage prospects. When one of Philomena's suitors finally manages to gain her fathers blessing for their marriage, she is distraught. To her immense and shocking pleasure, Inigo swiftly proposes a false engagement, which will give them both a means to find their own happiness...

As Philomena and Inigo act out their false engagement, they start to realize it might be a bit more difficult then they first expected. As secrets are revealed and emotions run high, even more is at stake then when they began this charade; for now, their hearts have been thrown in the mix...

With unspoken feelings, denied passions and devastating misunderstandings, hearts are broken and rash actions are taken. Philomena soon finds herself in a dire situation with no hope for escape, but when Inigo learns of her plight he will risk everything to save and win back the woman he just might have fallen in love with...


This was a cute and delightful read. Told from the perspective of both Philomena and Inigo, it gave the reader a chance to have a complete and satisfying vision of the story. Another enjoyable aspect of the book were the witty comments. There were many subtle remarks and thoughts that were amusing and often I found myself laughing throughout. Although this is an easy read with a more basic plot, the end did have a few unexpected twists that not only brought new information but completed some random events in the beginning, creating a very satisfying conclusion. I am exceedingly happy that I chose to read this book after having it for so long; it was just the type of book to read on a relaxing spring day.


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I also reviewed this over at Royal Reviews!

Book Review: The Darcy Cousins by Monica Fairview

Synopsis: (From the Publisher)

"A young lady in disgrace should at least strive to behave with decorum...

Dispatched from America to England under a cloud of scandal,

Mr. Darcy's incorrigible American cousin, Clarissa Darcy, manages to provoke Lady Catherine de Bourgh, Mr. Collins, and the parishioners of Hunsford all in one morning!

And there are more surprises in store for that bastion of tradition, Rosings Park, when the family gathers for their annual Easter visit. Georgiana Darcy, generally a shy model of propriety, decides to take a few lessons from her unconventional cousin, to the delight of a neighboring gentleman. Anne de Bourgh, encouraged to escape her "keeper" Mrs. Jenkinson, simply...vanishes. But the trouble really starts when Clarissa and Georgiana both set out to win the heart of the same young man..."

My Review:

The story of Pride and Prejudice continues with this delightful and charming novel. Although the characters are the same, besides some new additions, we find that there is much more to the their personalities then what is currently known. 

When Clarissa Darcy arrives from America, Georgiana is at once taken by her confident personality and coy ways. Determined to be alluring for her first London season, Georgiana tries to emulate her cousin in every way...

Daring and borderline careless, Georgiana and Clarissa embark on a series of escapades that, although done with good intentions, lead to devastating consequences. Through all the trouble that befalls them, it would seem that nothing could cause a rift between these two; but when they are both intent on winning the affections of the dashing Mr Channing, they begin to loose sight of what matters most. In the midst of all the drama and uncertainty, can Georgiana discover what she has truly been seeking for, and if she does, will it be to late?...

There is always a bit of hesitation when starting a spin off of a classic piece of literature, but that usual hesitation was quickly diminished after reading just a bit of this charming novel. It was great to have a story with Georgiana being so in depth and full of spirit, and I found myself greatly enjoying her debates with Mr. Gately. The main characters were very vivid, and their contrast to each other was perfect. The plot was well laid out and easily followed, but it was also in this plot that my one issue laid. While I thought hidden personality behind Anne was brilliant and her disappearance quite intriguing, I felt as though after she disappeared, that part of the plot was quickly dropped and then suddenly picked back up at the end. Besides this little issue, I found the book to be highly enjoyable and will be adding the authors previous novels to my reading list.

FTC: I recived this book for review from the publisher. Thank you!

Book Review: The Queen's Pawn by Christy English

Synopsis: (From the Publisher)

"A historical novel of the legendary Eleanor of Aquitaine and the one person she loved more than power-her rival for the throne. 

At only nine, Princess Alais of France is sent to live in England until she is of age to wed Prince Richard, son of King Henry II and Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine. Alais is an innocent pawn on the chessboard of dynastic marriage, her betrothal intended to broker an uneasy truce between the nations.

Estranged from her husband, Eleanor sees a kindred spirit in this determined young girl. She embraces Alais as a daughter, teaching the princess what it takes to be a woman of power in a world of men. But as Alais grows to maturity and develops ambitions of her own, Eleanor begins to see her as a threat-and their love for each other becomes overshadowed by their bitter rivalry, dark betrayals, conflicting passions, and a battle for revenge over the throne of England itself."

My Review:

Leaving her beloved country of France behind, Princess Alais sets out for England prepared to fulfill her duty by marrying Prince Richard. Wary and guarded, Alais arrives at the court of her fathers enemy. Having thought England would be a cold and friendless place, she is taken by surprise when she is welcomed as a daughter by England's queen and fathers former wife, Eleanor of Aquitaine. A close bond forms between the two, and with Eleanor's direction, Alais blooms into a young lady of courage and strength. When Alais meets her betrothed, a tender and blissful love ensues. So in love and ignorantly happy, nothing could possibly tear her world asunder...

Alas, as time goes on, Alais soon realizes everything is not as it seems. With bitter betrayals, harsh retaliations and struggles for power and love, Alais soon realizes she is but a pawn in the life she leads. Ignoring all consequences, Alais sets out on a path that will give her the power she needs to control her own destiny...


The Queen's Pawn is an exciting and emotional journey that takes you through the intriguing courts of medieval England. Told from the alternating perspectives of Eleanor and Alais, the reader is given an intense understanding of their feelings and the knowledge of what really motivates these two women to such dramatic actions. From the beginning, I knew that I would completely enjoy this reading experience. I was entranced by the authors ability to change the readers sympathies whenever the same scene was told from both their perspectives. The only issue I had with this novel was that after such a brilliant beginning and intense plot build up, the last 1/4 of the book seemed to be a bit rushed which deflated some of the plots build up. Overall this was a great read and a stunning debut. With The Queen's Pawn, Christy English has definitely shown her talent for writing historical fiction, and I am absolutely looking forward to reading her next novel!

A Little Extra:

Be sure to stop by tomorrow for a great interview with the author, Christy English!

Are you intrigued by The Queen's Pawn? Great news! I have a brand new copy available for one lucky winner...enter in this exciting giveaway here: The Queen's Pawn Giveaway. 

Book Review - Phillippa Gregory's The White Queen

Synopsis: (from the publisher)

     Brother turns on brother to win the ultimate prize, the throne of England, in this dazzling account of the wars of the Plantagenets. They are the claimants and kings who ruled England before the Tudors, and now Philippa Gregory brings them to life through the dramatic and intimate stories of the secret players: the indomitable women, starting with Elizabeth Woodville, the White Queen.

The White Queen tells the story of a woman of extraordinary beauty and ambition who, catching the eye of the newly crowned boy king, marries him in secret and ascends to royalty. While Elizabeth rises to the demands of her exalted position and fights for the success of her family, her two sons become central figures in a mystery that has confounded historians for centuries: the missing princes in the Tower of London...

My Review:

    In the beginning of the book we find Elizabeth Woodville standing on the side of the road with her two young boys, waiting for the King of England (Edward) to ride by. She then captures the eye of the King and his heart too. Secret meetings followed by a secret marriage, mixed with a little magic gave this book a great start.

    Elizabeth rose up quickly from her humble birth, she was now the Queen of England. Appointing her family to high positions through titles and marriage, she hoped to secure a strong future for her Woodville/Riverses kinsmen. Many hated and envied Elizabeth for her rise to power, therefore her enemies were immediately known, and it quickly became a court of ruthless politics.

    Edward soon had to go to war to fight for his crown. Fighting alongside him are two of his most loyal companions, His brother Duke Richard and Elizabeth's brother Anthony. Unfortunately Edwards other brother, Duke George, is fighting for the opposing side with Warwick "the kingmaker". George is vicious and hopes to take the crown from Edward, and then crown himself King. During this battle Elizabeth's father and eldest brother are killed at the hands of Duke George and Warwick, leading Elizabeth to vow for revenge. She curses them both with her magic and seals it with her own blood.

    Peace resumes for a while, and Elizabeth has a child. Soon after, Edward is at war again with Warwick and Duke George, and ends up fleeing England in order to live. In the meantime Elizabeth and her children find Sanctuary in a church, it is here she gives birth to her first son (with the king) Prince Edward. Elizabeth and her mother use their magic to create havoc in the seas, trying to help defeat the traitors and bring her husband back. 

    Edward finally returns, and is able to reclaim his crown through victory in battle. As time goes on, Duke George is constantly being a turncoat, and always trying to play the winning side. Elizabeth has a constant fear of The Tower of London, and being separated from her son Prince Edward. She is obsessed with revenge and gaining more power. More children are born to the King and Queen, and we find that Edward is constantly getting extremely drunk and has plenty of whores.

    In the last 100 pages of the book, things really pick up. Edward falls ill and dies, leaving his thrown to his little Prince Edward and naming His brother Duke Richard as protector. Elizabeth flees into sanctuary again, fearing that Richard will take the crown for himself. Richard does indeed take the crown and holds Prince Edward in the Tower of London. He also executes Elizabeths brother Anthony. So again Elizabeth focuses on revenge and curses Duke (now king) Richard.

     While in sanctuary Elizabeth is focused on plotting to regain control of England. She secretly sends away her second royal son, and then sends a look alike to The Tower to stay with his brother Prince Richard. She soon hears rumors that her sons in the tower have been murdered by Richard, but when she thinks logically about it she can not believe it to be true. Elizabeth's eldest daughter begs her to stop plotting and give up her ambition, which would let them lead a quiet life away from the danger. Still Elizabeth can not let go of her hate or pride.

     When Elizabeth and her daughters finally leave sanctuary, Elizabeth goes to the country and her daughters to court. Elizabeth is still plotting her return to power and revenge for her sons death. She sends for her other son that she had in hiding, feeling that it is now safe to bring him back....

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This book was definitely well written and well researched. I actually felt like I was reading a history book, but it was the most readable history book ever. Since this was the time of the Wars of the Roses, battles were all throughout the book. They were in great detail too, I was actually surprised at how well the author described the battle scenes. My only complaint about this book was that for the size of it, I felt there was not a deep enough story line for Elizabeth. Elizabeth was constantly set on revenge and was very ambitious, to the point of putting it before her children. This is all we saw from her and it became very repetitive towards the end, when I actually started to dislike her! When I reached the last page I thought it was only the end of a chapter, so I went to the next page and found that it was the Authors Note. I guess that is a good sign, I was just not ready for the book to end.

     Overall I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone. Having done extensive research on this time period myself, I can tell that the author put a great deal of time and passion into this piece of work.  I will be looking forward to her next installment in the series.