A B.R.A.G. Medallion winner, this is the story of Elizabeth Woodville, the wife of King Edward IV and the mother of the Princes in the Tower. As an impoverished widow, she was wooed and won by the handsome young king and believed her dreams had come true. But she was soon swept up in the War of the Roses, enduring hardship and danger as her husband struggled to keep his throne. When he died … Elizabeth was unable to protect her family against the ruthless ambitions of the man he trusted above all others. It was the king’s brothers, the unstable Duke of Clarence and the loyal Duke of Gloucester, who would prove to be Elizabeth’s most dangerous enemies. If you enjoyed The White Queen by Philippa Gregory, you might enjoy Queen of Trial and Sorrow.
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A historical novel that captivates from the start and exceeds all expectations. The latest edition to Susan Appleyard’s historical range is “The Queen of Trial and Sorrow”. Rich in events true to the time period, with both characters and plot well researched, makes this a book that is hard to put down.
For lovers of history, Elizabeth Wydeville, is a truly stand out and powerful woman of her time always standing strong and looking out for her close family. A rare event in the times, Elizabeth, an impoverished widow with two sons, captivated the heart of the new King Edward, marrying for love, to become Queen. In doing this she not only brought the two feuding Houses of Lancaster and York together, but also won the hearts of the English, welcoming her regardless of her lower social standing to the crown. With the union and the early reigning of King Edward and Queen Elizabeth, England’s ongoing civil wars that had ravaged the countryside mostly ceased and the people of England welcomed the peace. During this time, the reigning family began to expand, with many beautiful children. However, as with any period in this turbulent time in history, war was inevitable, with powerful men and women trying to capture reign of the crown. Apart from spending time in sanctuary awaiting King Edwards victory from petty battles, their York reign was triumphant. So what events changed to cause the reign of King Edward to lose the crown? And why would Queen Elizabeth become known throughout history as the “Queen of Trial and Sorrow”?
An entertaining plot filled with action, suspense, romance and rich in history. There are many twists and turns throughout this book, showing the developments that occurred during Elizabeth’s lifespan. Be swept away in the passion and love between King Edward and Queen Elizabeth, that turned the tables on what was expected of the King at that time in marrying for the good of England, not his heart, making them an exceptional couple in history for more than one reason. Susan Appleyard’s attention to detail and a wealth of research truly makes this period in history come alive, making “The Queen of Trial and Sorrow” a stand out historical book that readers will not want to miss.
“The Queen of Trial and Sorrow” showcases a large cast of characters, including many infamous to historical lovers, known for their rebellions and civil wars. The lead character, Elizabeth Wydeville, is portrayed in all cycles of her life, from times of happiness, love and peace to her many trials that brought sorrow and sadness. The one person narrative focusing on Elizabeth allows readers to learn her full story, and bringing a familiarity that invokes an investment in her story. Portrayed true to historical events shows how Elizabeth goes from strength to strength as her life story continues to develop, including the darker times that have labelled her “The Queen of Trial and Sorrow”.
Susan Appleyard’s book, “The Queen of Trial and Sorrow” stands out as a 5-star read, and the best celebration of Elizabeth Wydeville’s life that I have read. I recommend this book to all lovers of this character as well as readers that enjoy a book rich in historical events. I look forward to reading many more of Susan Appleyard’s books in this genre, including “The Son of York”, the story of the rise of King Edward.
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a copy in advance.
Queen of Trial and Sorrow