Anne O'Brien's latest novel tells the story of Cecily Neville, Duchess of York. It's 1459 and as the Yorkist forces flee in defeat from the battle at Ludford, Cecily is left behind to face the Lancastrian forces with her young children. Brought before the ambitious and ruthless Queen Marguerite, Cecily is deprived of her land, her home and her titles. Forbidden to contact her husband or sons as her sister becomes her jailer, Cecily must find a way to communicate with her family. Soon she is caught up in a scheme to place her husband on the throne, over the ineffectual Henry. If the plan fails she will die a traitor but if it succeeds she will be Queen of England replacing Queen Marguerite. Marguerite will never allow that. Written in the form of letters, chronicles and journal entries this is compelling storytelling and follows in Anne O'Brien's fantastic tradition of bringing to life the reality of the scheming and political manoevring of medieval court life. Perfect for fans of Philippa Gregory, Joanna Courtney and Elizabeth Chadwick. Thanks so much to HQ who sent me an e-arc of this fantastic book. It is published on Thursday 3rd September.
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