Derry, Henry VI's spymaster, has returned to Windsor Castle to find the
king still in a stupor after fourteen months. He reports to the king's
wife, Margaret, that regretfully, the Duke of York is ruling the country
in Henry's stead, quite well.
In 1454, conflict would break out between the Percy family and the
Neville family. It was a dispute that had been simmering for some time.
At Christmas of that same year, Henry arises out of his stupor and
takes command of his nation once more. While Henry governs, York and
Salisbury conspire. York is proud of his eldest son, Edward, yet he is
angered at his wife's caring for his youngest, Richard because of his
bent spine.
Henry decides that he needs to be seen by his people and begins a
progress to the north towards York and Salisbury. At St. Albans, he
declares them traitors, so they besiege him in the town. In the king's
cortex is Jasper Tudor, his half-brother, and almost 100 Welsh archers.
In the ensuing battle, Henry is badly wounded, captured, and his forces
lose the battle. The Lancaster King is now under the power of the York
family. It isn't long before Margaret is able to sneak her husband
away to Kenilworth Castle where she schemes to get him back in power.
Henry is convinced to issue Writs of Attainder against York and
Salisbury.
Can Henry and Margaret hold onto the throne despite forcing these men
into exile? Author Conn Iggulden develops the story to a fever pitch as
the Lancastrian and Yorkist families do battle for the future of
England. This historical novel is well researched and well written,
leaving the history buff wanting more, and wanting to know what will come next.
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