The Stolen Crown

The Stolen Crown. Susan Higginbotham. 2010. [March 2010] SourceBooks. 400 pages.

You might think that the last night of a condemned traitor would be a rather solitary affair, but you would think wrong, for the last couple of hours have been bustling with people coming and going.

I know historical fiction isn't loved by everyone, isn't appreciated by everyone. I know that not every reader finds history fun. But. For the right reader, it can be very satisfying, very compelling. I really enjoyed Susan Higginbotham's The Stolen Crown. I found it to be rich in detail, yet compelling. There is a story to be told--a very dramatic one--and Higginbotham tells it well.

The Stolen Crown is the story of Harry Stafford (duke of Buckingham) and his wife Katherine Woodville (sister to Elizabeth, Queen of Edward IV). It's narrated by both Kate and Harry. It spans several decades, (1460s-1480s); these are turbulent decades in England's history. (Perhaps you haven't heard of this couple, but maybe you've heard of Richard III?!)

After having read The Tudor Rose last year, I was curious to learn more about this time period in British history. There is some overlap--when it comes to characters--and having some familiarity helped me keep everything straight in this one--but they are two very different stories.

If you're interested in history, royalty, and politics, then this one may be for you!

© Becky Laney of Becky's Book Reviews