BLURB

Succession tells the extraordinary tale of Margaret Beaufort, mother of Henry VII, and how she became one of the most formidable women of her age in 1444. Henry VI is married by proxy to Margaret of Anjou: an unpopular choice that causes national uproar. At the same time, the infant Margaret Beaufort is made a great heiress after her father, the Earl of Somerset’s, death. Everyone at court is competing to be her guardian: she brings with her the Beaufort fortune and an advantageous alliance with her uncle. In the years that follow, English rule in France collapses, Henry VI goes insane, civil war erupts, and families are pitted against each other. And though Margaret Beaufort is still little more than a child, by the age of thirteen she has married twice and given birth to her only son – the future King of England. Succession tells the thrilling, bloody story of the fall of the House of Lancaster and the rise of the Tudor dynasty.

REVIEW

This is so much more than what the blurb summarizes, as it gives several POVs throughout. Tidbits from chronicles and other works are placed in the chapters, keeping the reader updated with the actual events. I thoroughly enjoyed these little tidbits, as it makes the story much more personal.  The author presented the Duke of York much better than any other character,  in my opinion, but the others were fairly represented.  This period is a most extraordinary time, and there are several books on which the subject is based, but this author has written an excellent version.

At times, I felt this read as a textbook, but only in spurts. Otherwise, the writing is fast-paced, direct, and creative. A great deal of research shows in each chapter,  which was a definite plus, and the story gradually focused more on the Margarets’.

Overall, it’s a very good read, and I’m look forward to reading the next two installments in this series.  I recommend for true lovers of history.

Next in the series:

About This Literary Chef

Livi Michael’s website is an extraordinary place to catch up on her latest endeavors, read wonderful background information on her novels, and discover her world of books. Check it out!

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