An absolutely superb end to an enthralling series. One of the best historical fiction series set during the wars of the roses I’ve ever read. Clements does well (throughout the series) to keep his fictional characters at the forefront of the novels, relegating the true historical characters of the period to provide an intriguing backdrop.
The wars of the roses was a tumultuous time in English medieval history, jumping intermittently from fragile peace to full-scale war in the blink of an eye, over a long period of time. Many historical fiction writers tend to base their own stories from the fall of the English provinces in France to Bosworth in a neat little bow, throwing the fictional parts in to suit. This in itself isn’t necessarily a bad thing, I just think that when this method is executed, a lot of key moments during the war are skimmed over — or poorly utilised to bolster the author’s fictional side.
Clements doesn’t do this, which is very refreshing. He manages to keep your attention fixed solely on his wonderful characters and settings, at the same time, subtly throwing in developments regarding the power struggles between the Yorkists and Lancastrians.
I hope Toby Clements begins a new historical fiction series. I’m somewhat disappointed I’ve finished this one…
Thoroughly recommend!!
Graeme J Greenan 