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The fourth novel in Kate Emerson’s well-reviewed series set in Tudor England—based on a real life member of the royal court of Henry VIII.
Following the acclaimed By Royal Decree, Pleasure Palace, and Between Two Queens, Kate Emerson again plucks a real figure from history in this lushly detailed tale featuring Lady Anne Stafford—who is torn between her husband and another man.
History remembers Lady Anne Stafford as the woman who cheated on her husband with both King Henry VIII and his companion, Sir William Compton. Lady Anne was indeed in love with two men at the same time….but the king wasn’t one of them. Lady Anne’s complex and heart-wrenching romantic relationships are at the core of this riveting tale that masterfully blends romance, drama, and historical detail as only Kate Emerson can.
In 1509, in spite of his efforts Edward the Duke of Buckingham is upset that his brother charged with treason Lord Henry remains confined to the Tower. Edward needs a pawn at the court of King Henry VIII, but his three daughters are too young and one of his sisters is married. He turns to his sibling Widow Anne Herbert whose husband died form a fall; as Edward realizes she is the only one he can barter with.
Edward arranges a marriage to George, Baron Hastings. Lady Anne is pleased to escape her martinet brother and obtains a position as a lady-in-waiting to Queen Catherine. One year after she and George married, she is caught up in a scandalous situation with King Henry VIII's man Sir William Compton in her chambers while the ruler is also sniffing at her with desire.
The latest Secrets of the Tudor Court (see The Pleasure Queen, Between Two Queens and By Royal Decree) is an engaging tale though the lead protagonist lacks the passion and energy (even with three males desiring her and her brother using her) that previous Tudor heroines had. Still sub-fans will enjoy an interesting look at the court of King Henry VIII in which much of the intrigue centers around the value of females on the aristocratic commodity exchange.
Harriet Klausner
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Posted January 3, 2012
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Overview
The fourth novel in Kate Emerson’s well-reviewed series set in Tudor England—based on a real life member of the royal court of Henry VIII.
Following the acclaimed By Royal Decree, Pleasure Palace, and Between Two Queens, Kate Emerson again plucks a real figure from history in this lushly detailed tale featuring Lady Anne Stafford—who is torn between her husband and another man.
History remembers Lady Anne Stafford as the woman who cheated on ...