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Mercenary For Hire #1
A Queen's Spy
Librarian's Note: Alternate-cover edition for ASIN B06ZZFBGNB
A gripping Historical Adventure set in 16th Century Tudor England. Elizabeth Tudor needs a hero. Murder, Mystery & Intrigue with a Splash of Romance.
Based on actual historical events, an epic tale of a young Tudor nobleman’s courage as he tries to keep his future Queen safe in one of England’s most turbulent eras.
If you enjoy Tudor Fiction by Phillipa Gregory and Alison Weir then 'A Queens Spy' is perfect for you. A fascinating insight into Tudor England and the life of Elizabeth I before she sets foot on the steps to the throne.
The story unfolds in 16th Century Tudor England
Richard Fitzwarren is a Tudor nobleman with a dubious past who takes risks for a living.
His close friendship with Princess Elizabeth leads to his banishment to France, but when he returns he remains loyal to her.
At his side is Jack, his bastard sibling, and their relationship is a troubled one due to a family secret and their opposite personalities.
Will he keep the future Queen safe?
Will Richard Fitzwarren make it?
Will he and his brother solve their issues?
Will he manage to keep the Elizabeth Tudor safe?
Get A Queen's Spy: The Tudor Mystery Trials NOW for Fast Paced Action
If you Love Tudor Historical Fiction you'll love this
As a young man he had been attached to Thomas Seymour’s household, working with Seymour’s spy and intelligence network. Seymour, married to Henry VIII’s widow, Catherine Parr. Through his wife he became guardian of the young Elizabeth Tudor, and so Richard Fitzwarren became a close childhood friend of Elizabeth Tudor. So close that Seymour was readily believed when he blamed Richard for the liberties he himself had taken with the young princess. Banished from his father’s house for the crimes he didn’t commit he’s learnt his trade well in France returning to England a self styled Tudor soldier of fortune selling his services, and those of his mercenary band to the highest bidder.
Now he’s back in England, his bastard sibling at his side and a band of mercenaries at his back. Despite selling his services to support Northumberland place Lady Jane Grey on the throne he remains loyal to the lady Elizabeth; soon he is embroiled in Tudor intrigue as he tries to keep the Lady safe.
At his side is Jack, his bastard sibling; their relationship a troubled one. Jacks seeks to be his brothers equal but Richard has difficulty accepting him; impatient, impulsive and impetuous, he is everything Richard is not. There is a dark family secret Richard had always suspected; the final discovery of it changes the relationship between them forever.
A gripping Historical Adventure set in 16th Century Tudor England. Elizabeth Tudor needs a hero. Murder, Mystery & Intrigue with a Splash of Romance.
Based on actual historical events, an epic tale of a young Tudor nobleman’s courage as he tries to keep his future Queen safe in one of England’s most turbulent eras.
If you enjoy Tudor Fiction by Phillipa Gregory and Alison Weir then 'A Queens Spy' is perfect for you. A fascinating insight into Tudor England and the life of Elizabeth I before she sets foot on the steps to the throne.
The story unfolds in 16th Century Tudor England
Richard Fitzwarren is a Tudor nobleman with a dubious past who takes risks for a living.
His close friendship with Princess Elizabeth leads to his banishment to France, but when he returns he remains loyal to her.
At his side is Jack, his bastard sibling, and their relationship is a troubled one due to a family secret and their opposite personalities.
Will he keep the future Queen safe?
Will Richard Fitzwarren make it?
Will he and his brother solve their issues?
Will he manage to keep the Elizabeth Tudor safe?
Get A Queen's Spy: The Tudor Mystery Trials NOW for Fast Paced Action
If you Love Tudor Historical Fiction you'll love this
As a young man he had been attached to Thomas Seymour’s household, working with Seymour’s spy and intelligence network. Seymour, married to Henry VIII’s widow, Catherine Parr. Through his wife he became guardian of the young Elizabeth Tudor, and so Richard Fitzwarren became a close childhood friend of Elizabeth Tudor. So close that Seymour was readily believed when he blamed Richard for the liberties he himself had taken with the young princess. Banished from his father’s house for the crimes he didn’t commit he’s learnt his trade well in France returning to England a self styled Tudor soldier of fortune selling his services, and those of his mercenary band to the highest bidder.
Now he’s back in England, his bastard sibling at his side and a band of mercenaries at his back. Despite selling his services to support Northumberland place Lady Jane Grey on the throne he remains loyal to the lady Elizabeth; soon he is embroiled in Tudor intrigue as he tries to keep the Lady safe.
At his side is Jack, his bastard sibling; their relationship a troubled one. Jacks seeks to be his brothers equal but Richard has difficulty accepting him; impatient, impulsive and impetuous, he is everything Richard is not. There is a dark family secret Richard had always suspected; the final discovery of it changes the relationship between them forever.
406 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 19, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
April 14, 2018
I loved the historical aspect to the story. The intrigue was great. I felt, though, the characters were a bit underdeveloped and flat. Like they were written and put into designated boxes..."this is the arrogant, callous lady's man", "this one is the underdog with a chip on his shoulder who has tendencies to be careless, impulsive and a bit of a blockhead", etc and the characters never strayed from the confines of their "boxes". In reality, people often put on "masks" to hide aspects of themselves they don't want others to see and make themselves vulnerable, but not matter how carefully constructed the "mask", the qualities the person would like to hide have a way of peeking through eventually. I did not see that with these characters, and for me, because the were so one-dimensional, it made it a bit harder to believe. I did not like how they were consistently assuming what the other was thinking, what was motivating the others, why they did what they did and jumping to conclusions. I find that irritating in real life, and just as irritating in a book. Had these things been rectified, I would have given it a higher rating. The books rates as high as it does by me simply because I loved the historical aspect of it.
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September 6, 2017
A Queen's Spy is an engaging, well-written story.
Historical novels often have a multitude of characters and this one is no exception. It can be difficult to keep track of everyone and everything, but Burnell does such an incredible job, I found it easy to follow.
The author's descriptive prose is a delight and the characters and plot twists kept me intrigued until the very end. Recommended to fans of the genre or anyone interested in English history, especially in the Tudor period.
Historical novels often have a multitude of characters and this one is no exception. It can be difficult to keep track of everyone and everything, but Burnell does such an incredible job, I found it easy to follow.
The author's descriptive prose is a delight and the characters and plot twists kept me intrigued until the very end. Recommended to fans of the genre or anyone interested in English history, especially in the Tudor period.
October 18, 2017
A Most Engaging Historical Tudor Mystery
The Author, Sam Burnell’s love and knowledge of history and archaeology shine brilliantly in The Queen’s Spy. There’s never a dim or dull moment as the book grabs you at the beginning, shakes you, and doesn’t let go until the end. It is a most engaging and fascinating historical Tudor mystery novel.
The Author, Sam Burnell’s love and knowledge of history and archaeology shine brilliantly in The Queen’s Spy. There’s never a dim or dull moment as the book grabs you at the beginning, shakes you, and doesn’t let go until the end. It is a most engaging and fascinating historical Tudor mystery novel.
September 21, 2017
Elizabeth spent his childhood and youth outside the court. In 1553 the young king, her brother, dies prematurely and opens the throne for Maria Tudor, daughter of Henry VII and his first wife Catherine of Aragon.
In 1558, Mary I dies and Elizabeth I rises to the throne. At 25 she is crowned Queen of England.
This historical novel helps us to understand this period of England's history and the need for the support of the nobility for Elizabeth, in order to be able to govern.
In 1558, Mary I dies and Elizabeth I rises to the throne. At 25 she is crowned Queen of England.
This historical novel helps us to understand this period of England's history and the need for the support of the nobility for Elizabeth, in order to be able to govern.
October 18, 2017
The Fitzwarren family has a secret, one that will alter the course of the family line. Well drawn characters and a wonderful setting transport the reader back in time to experience a tale of deceit and jealousy. The action begins immediately as brothers are pitted against each other in a fight for the family estate. The author cleverly develops the characters as the storyline unfolds, weaving an intriguing story that leaves the reader wanting more. I don't normally read historical fiction, but Ms. Burnell has made me a fan of the genre.
February 26, 2018
Thorns on the Tudor Rose
“It’s a dangerous game, but you know that don’t you?”
Richard and Jack are brothers - well half-brothers. Born in an era where being the illegitimate offspring of a nobleman could carry both benefits and banes, one of the brothers - Jack - was destined for a very different life than his legitimate sibling. Then Richard was banished for a crime he did not commit and his prospects were very changed. But Richard and Jack are determined not to let their status impede their fortunes. In 1550s England, with the child king dying and three women placed to claim the crown, there is enough skullduggery going on to offer them a ladder to power.
Reveal here, I am a major fan of historical fiction and my favourite ever books are set in this exact period, so I dived into this book with eager anticipation. It is a tale of swashbuckling and cloak-and-dagger deeds, of family and national intrigue and the end is set up with more to come.There were a few moments I felt things did not quite add up, but over all the tale carries along very well.
“At the moment no one can guarantee my safety, and I think you can fairly say I am coping without the assistance of a waiting lady.”
The best aspect of this book is the characters. They are engaging and read well, none seem too far out of the period (although their dialogue sometimes is). I particularly liked the character of Catherine, who is very much a woman of her time but is also as much ‘derring-do’ in her own way as the men. The plot is a clever blend of the historical and the well woven in made-up elements, with the relationships between the characters and the unravelling of dark family secrets, fitting alongside the national pre-occupation of who will be the next Queen.
Pace is taut and well managed and the language use, whilst not of the period (it would have been very awkward to read a book in pure Tudor English) is generally well chosen to keep the feel of it intact. The research of the author was well done with only a couple of places where I found myself frowning a bit at the details.
'What Richard was unaware of was that, for once, Harry was acting at his father’s behest, and not at Robert’s...’
What really bugged me about the book though was the slippy-slidey feel in reading it. One moment you were sitting in one person’s head hearing their thoughts and seeing the world through their eyes and a sentence later you are in another person’s head. And then there are times, as in the quote above, when the narrator sits in the sky and tells us what is going on in several people’s heads at one time. It is as if the author can’t bear not to have the reader know absolutely everything about what everyone knows in any given scene. I found it irritating to the point of spoiling what was otherwise a solidly enjoyable read.
This is a great read for anyone who enjoys historical books that are more about interesting characters and history than romance.
“It’s a dangerous game, but you know that don’t you?”
Richard and Jack are brothers - well half-brothers. Born in an era where being the illegitimate offspring of a nobleman could carry both benefits and banes, one of the brothers - Jack - was destined for a very different life than his legitimate sibling. Then Richard was banished for a crime he did not commit and his prospects were very changed. But Richard and Jack are determined not to let their status impede their fortunes. In 1550s England, with the child king dying and three women placed to claim the crown, there is enough skullduggery going on to offer them a ladder to power.
Reveal here, I am a major fan of historical fiction and my favourite ever books are set in this exact period, so I dived into this book with eager anticipation. It is a tale of swashbuckling and cloak-and-dagger deeds, of family and national intrigue and the end is set up with more to come.There were a few moments I felt things did not quite add up, but over all the tale carries along very well.
“At the moment no one can guarantee my safety, and I think you can fairly say I am coping without the assistance of a waiting lady.”
The best aspect of this book is the characters. They are engaging and read well, none seem too far out of the period (although their dialogue sometimes is). I particularly liked the character of Catherine, who is very much a woman of her time but is also as much ‘derring-do’ in her own way as the men. The plot is a clever blend of the historical and the well woven in made-up elements, with the relationships between the characters and the unravelling of dark family secrets, fitting alongside the national pre-occupation of who will be the next Queen.
Pace is taut and well managed and the language use, whilst not of the period (it would have been very awkward to read a book in pure Tudor English) is generally well chosen to keep the feel of it intact. The research of the author was well done with only a couple of places where I found myself frowning a bit at the details.
'What Richard was unaware of was that, for once, Harry was acting at his father’s behest, and not at Robert’s...’
What really bugged me about the book though was the slippy-slidey feel in reading it. One moment you were sitting in one person’s head hearing their thoughts and seeing the world through their eyes and a sentence later you are in another person’s head. And then there are times, as in the quote above, when the narrator sits in the sky and tells us what is going on in several people’s heads at one time. It is as if the author can’t bear not to have the reader know absolutely everything about what everyone knows in any given scene. I found it irritating to the point of spoiling what was otherwise a solidly enjoyable read.
This is a great read for anyone who enjoys historical books that are more about interesting characters and history than romance.
January 11, 2018
I enjoy a good cloak and dagger story, and there’s mystery, treachery and intrigue aplenty in this historical adventure. For those who think the Tudors have been done to death, this story is set in the less well explored time leading up to and following the death of Edward VI, the Northumberland plot to place Lady Jane Grey on the throne, and the subsequent tensions between supporters of Mary and Elizabeth.
The main plot revolves around the Fitzwarren family and the power struggle between Robert, the father’s favourite, his villainous cousin, Harry, and two other brothers, Richard and Jack who, though allied, are constantly at each other’s throats. The conundrum of who is the true heir and who is the bastard slightly mirrors the royal intrigues, as both Mary and Elizabeth were at one point declared bastards, hence Lady Jane’s claim to the throne.
The royal characters are less well developed. Lady Jane, the reluctant plotter, and her family disappear without a trace early on. The portrayal of Mary is a bit simplistic. The author asserts that Mary hated Elizabeth. If that were the case, she would certainly have found a way to get rid of her. As it was, she spared her the block. Mary even initially pardoned Lady Jane, but was forced to execute her when her father joined Wyatt’s rebellion. She pardoned Jane's mother and sisters and allowed them to live at court. Mary’s religious fanaticism and the subsequent burnings have, unfortunately, tarnished her reputation permanently.
Much more highly developed are the characters of the Fitzwarrens. The enigmatic Richard is superficially a mercenary for hire, and his true loyalties and motives are slowly revealed. Jack in an interesting character too and Robert and Harry are splendid villains. Catherine is well drawn and sympathetic and not at all your usual historical damsel in distress. However, I was puzzled as to why she did not simply go to Mary for help while in London, rather than stay with a man she suspected of complicity in her family’s murders.
The writing could have been tighter and the dialogue was a bit rambling in parts, with a lot of unnecessary tags. However, the fight scenes were excellent and there was plenty of tension leading up to the finale. Throughout, the author conjures up vividly the atmosphere of 16th century England, with its squalor, treachery and casual cruelty, and there are enough unanswered questions at the end to promise an intriguing sequel.
The main plot revolves around the Fitzwarren family and the power struggle between Robert, the father’s favourite, his villainous cousin, Harry, and two other brothers, Richard and Jack who, though allied, are constantly at each other’s throats. The conundrum of who is the true heir and who is the bastard slightly mirrors the royal intrigues, as both Mary and Elizabeth were at one point declared bastards, hence Lady Jane’s claim to the throne.
The royal characters are less well developed. Lady Jane, the reluctant plotter, and her family disappear without a trace early on. The portrayal of Mary is a bit simplistic. The author asserts that Mary hated Elizabeth. If that were the case, she would certainly have found a way to get rid of her. As it was, she spared her the block. Mary even initially pardoned Lady Jane, but was forced to execute her when her father joined Wyatt’s rebellion. She pardoned Jane's mother and sisters and allowed them to live at court. Mary’s religious fanaticism and the subsequent burnings have, unfortunately, tarnished her reputation permanently.
Much more highly developed are the characters of the Fitzwarrens. The enigmatic Richard is superficially a mercenary for hire, and his true loyalties and motives are slowly revealed. Jack in an interesting character too and Robert and Harry are splendid villains. Catherine is well drawn and sympathetic and not at all your usual historical damsel in distress. However, I was puzzled as to why she did not simply go to Mary for help while in London, rather than stay with a man she suspected of complicity in her family’s murders.
The writing could have been tighter and the dialogue was a bit rambling in parts, with a lot of unnecessary tags. However, the fight scenes were excellent and there was plenty of tension leading up to the finale. Throughout, the author conjures up vividly the atmosphere of 16th century England, with its squalor, treachery and casual cruelty, and there are enough unanswered questions at the end to promise an intriguing sequel.
June 12, 2019
A great read - all the history with a little bit of a fictional twist. Nicely done.
April 25, 2017
What an fascinating and exciting book. I really enjoy historical fiction, and I enjoy well researched fiction that ties in with the period, and this book certainly does that.
The central characters really do come to life, I really cared about what would happen to Jack and Richard, would the rift between them ever heal. There is so much going on in the book apart from their flawed relationship. The backdrop is Queen for 9 days, Lady Jane Grey, and the succession after of Mary Tudor. The central character, Richard, is a friend of the young Elizabeth Tudor, and he remains solidly loyal to her despite finding himself working for her elder sister Mary, indeed his men are instrumental in helping her gain the throne.
Jack, is likeable and human and easy to identify with, he has a need to belong and is constantly trying to gain his brothers approval, usually with disastrous results.
It is very well written, the prose really conjure up a picture and a feel for the period. The story is complex and there are lots going on and plenty to keep you turning the pages, indeed I found it difficult to put down and I was sad to reach the final pages.
This is number one in the Fitzwarren Trials and I will be looking out for the next book in the series
The central characters really do come to life, I really cared about what would happen to Jack and Richard, would the rift between them ever heal. There is so much going on in the book apart from their flawed relationship. The backdrop is Queen for 9 days, Lady Jane Grey, and the succession after of Mary Tudor. The central character, Richard, is a friend of the young Elizabeth Tudor, and he remains solidly loyal to her despite finding himself working for her elder sister Mary, indeed his men are instrumental in helping her gain the throne.
Jack, is likeable and human and easy to identify with, he has a need to belong and is constantly trying to gain his brothers approval, usually with disastrous results.
It is very well written, the prose really conjure up a picture and a feel for the period. The story is complex and there are lots going on and plenty to keep you turning the pages, indeed I found it difficult to put down and I was sad to reach the final pages.
This is number one in the Fitzwarren Trials and I will be looking out for the next book in the series
September 26, 2017
This is historical fiction, set in the times of the death of Edward VI and the turbulence leading to the succession of Mary I, and the dangers facing Elizabeth 1. The story mainly focuses on Jack, a bastard son of Fitzwarren. He has at least three half brothers, Robert, Harry and Richard who are legitimate, and probably some number of others like him. During the rather brutal attempt to get rid of Richard by Harry, Jack saves Richard and the two disappear off to France, only to re-emerge at the end of Edward's reign. Richard has to avoid Harry and Robert, as they want to kill him, and he has to choose sides in the struggle between those favouring Lady Jane Grey and those favouring Mary. Richard, not one to avoid risk, chooses both, and then adds Elizabeth. The problem then is to somehow stay alive.
The story is exciting, and it paints an excellent picture of how Burnell believes life was like for the lower ranking upper class, and the common soldier class. (I say that because nobody really knows, but it looks convincing.) The plot structure is more or less set to some extent by known events, but he adds in some convincing extras as Richard, and to some extent Jack and some other soldiers do what they have to do to be convincingly on whoever's side is on top at the moment. There were some editing blemishes that pulled his back from a five star rating. I do not mind a reasonable number of typos, but there were some sentences every now and again that jarred for me. One example: [" . . . how's your head then?" Jamie said grinning after experiencing Jamie's capacity for drink.] When reading this, it was not exactly clear to me what the author was trying to say. The characters are well drawn, except I am not convinced that they were adequate for the difficult tasks they undertook and there were some occasional places where there was, for me, a little confusion as to exactly how whatever happened. Otherwise, an excellent book that appears to lead on to a following one.
The story is exciting, and it paints an excellent picture of how Burnell believes life was like for the lower ranking upper class, and the common soldier class. (I say that because nobody really knows, but it looks convincing.) The plot structure is more or less set to some extent by known events, but he adds in some convincing extras as Richard, and to some extent Jack and some other soldiers do what they have to do to be convincingly on whoever's side is on top at the moment. There were some editing blemishes that pulled his back from a five star rating. I do not mind a reasonable number of typos, but there were some sentences every now and again that jarred for me. One example: [" . . . how's your head then?" Jamie said grinning after experiencing Jamie's capacity for drink.] When reading this, it was not exactly clear to me what the author was trying to say. The characters are well drawn, except I am not convinced that they were adequate for the difficult tasks they undertook and there were some occasional places where there was, for me, a little confusion as to exactly how whatever happened. Otherwise, an excellent book that appears to lead on to a following one.
November 19, 2017
This is a historical fiction novel set in England in the 1550's, at the time that Mary was Queen and was fearful Elizabeth would try to steal the throne. While this is a large part of the plot, the story itself centers around two half-brothers, Richard and Jack, mercenaries who play for both sides of the royal game.
Richard was long ago falsely accused of a crime he never commited, which stained him for life, causing him to live a shady life in the shadows. Skilled with the sword and possessing a crafty intellegence, he becomes leader of a band of mercenaries, hiring out to whoever pays top price.
Jack, disinherited of the family name and forgotten by all, is frowned on as the unfortunate product of the sins of his father. Convinced of his own low self value, he is a follower, not a leader. When fate brings him together with his half-brother, Richard, he joins up with him and his merry band of men. The tensions rise between him and Richard, as personalities clash.
This story is pouring with drama and the romance of Elizabethian England, with vivid sword plays that you can see in your mind as clearly as if you were there, and with a kind of tension so palpable it will make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. It is an exciting read, and I enjoyed it. However, the occasional usage by the characters of modern slang detracted from the story, when they'd say things like "Shut up, man", "whatever", and the words "you know" in the midst of a sentence. I'd give it four out of five stars.
Note: this book is not really a stand-alone novel. It is part of a series, and you need to read the next in the series to find out what happens next.
Richard was long ago falsely accused of a crime he never commited, which stained him for life, causing him to live a shady life in the shadows. Skilled with the sword and possessing a crafty intellegence, he becomes leader of a band of mercenaries, hiring out to whoever pays top price.
Jack, disinherited of the family name and forgotten by all, is frowned on as the unfortunate product of the sins of his father. Convinced of his own low self value, he is a follower, not a leader. When fate brings him together with his half-brother, Richard, he joins up with him and his merry band of men. The tensions rise between him and Richard, as personalities clash.
This story is pouring with drama and the romance of Elizabethian England, with vivid sword plays that you can see in your mind as clearly as if you were there, and with a kind of tension so palpable it will make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. It is an exciting read, and I enjoyed it. However, the occasional usage by the characters of modern slang detracted from the story, when they'd say things like "Shut up, man", "whatever", and the words "you know" in the midst of a sentence. I'd give it four out of five stars.
Note: this book is not really a stand-alone novel. It is part of a series, and you need to read the next in the series to find out what happens next.
abandoned
July 27, 2018This book had some good things going for it. The premise stood out; I love a good Elizabethan spy thriller. The author also made some efforts at setting and such. Yet, there are other glaring issues that just make this book unfinishable to me. I got 100 pages in and just had to call it quits after that.
The story starts with a bang, with a chase scene and grand escape. The author keeps up the pace with quick escapes and struggles to make ends meet while trying to keep away from enemies. So I have to give credit for this part. Yet, this is about the only good point to this book I could get behind.
Character types are flat and static to me. I felt like I couldn’t connect to any of them. Even our leads in the mercenary outfit, Richard and Jack, either come across as very harsh and unlikable or doormat-ish in how they relate to others. Villains were even worse. Harry and his crew read more like caricatures of bad guys in bad dramas rather than truly menacing figures. Now I seem to be in the minority with this book; most folks seem to give it 4 stars, including for characters. So maybe it’s just me.
I also felt like the book was choppy. Narrative balance between dialogue and descriptive passages felt off. I also had a REALLY hard time with scene changes. Maybe it was the version I was given for read/review, but there was absolutely nothing to indicate a scene change. This made it so hard to get into this book that I think it played a big part in why I had to drop this.
I don’t really like to write reviews for works I didn’t finish as I don’t feel I can give a objective review, having not finished all the material. Yet, on the flipside, I was given this title to read/review so I want to leave some reason as to why I didn’t finish. As I mentioned, I seem to be in the minority when it comes to this title. Others gave it rave reviews. So make your own determination, but I would look for other titles that explore this subject matter, myself.
Note: Book received for free from author in exchange for an honest review.
The story starts with a bang, with a chase scene and grand escape. The author keeps up the pace with quick escapes and struggles to make ends meet while trying to keep away from enemies. So I have to give credit for this part. Yet, this is about the only good point to this book I could get behind.
Character types are flat and static to me. I felt like I couldn’t connect to any of them. Even our leads in the mercenary outfit, Richard and Jack, either come across as very harsh and unlikable or doormat-ish in how they relate to others. Villains were even worse. Harry and his crew read more like caricatures of bad guys in bad dramas rather than truly menacing figures. Now I seem to be in the minority with this book; most folks seem to give it 4 stars, including for characters. So maybe it’s just me.
I also felt like the book was choppy. Narrative balance between dialogue and descriptive passages felt off. I also had a REALLY hard time with scene changes. Maybe it was the version I was given for read/review, but there was absolutely nothing to indicate a scene change. This made it so hard to get into this book that I think it played a big part in why I had to drop this.
I don’t really like to write reviews for works I didn’t finish as I don’t feel I can give a objective review, having not finished all the material. Yet, on the flipside, I was given this title to read/review so I want to leave some reason as to why I didn’t finish. As I mentioned, I seem to be in the minority when it comes to this title. Others gave it rave reviews. So make your own determination, but I would look for other titles that explore this subject matter, myself.
Note: Book received for free from author in exchange for an honest review.
November 15, 2018
I am finished with this book, but I didn’t read the whole thing. Read about 25%. I’m getting too old to waste my time on books, hoping I will like them better if I just force myself to read more.
Supposedly, this book is about Richard, but the story is told mostly from the point of view of Jack, who is not a character I wanted to spend that much time with. Part of the story was also told from the points of view of others, including someone who died shortly thereafter.
The setting and period elements seemed to be well-done. Too bad - I wish I had liked Jack more, or that he had been a more sympathetic character.
Supposedly, this book is about Richard, but the story is told mostly from the point of view of Jack, who is not a character I wanted to spend that much time with. Part of the story was also told from the points of view of others, including someone who died shortly thereafter.
The setting and period elements seemed to be well-done. Too bad - I wish I had liked Jack more, or that he had been a more sympathetic character.
July 15, 2017
I was kindly sent a PDF copy by the author in exchange for a review . I enjoyed this book , it kept me hooked until the end and then it ends on a cliffhanger ..... I love world History and historical fiction so some of the characters mentioned in this book were familiar to me which made it more enjoyable.
I can't wait to get into the second book to find out what happens next in this story !
I can't wait to get into the second book to find out what happens next in this story !
May 3, 2018
Civil war, or the threat of it, takes its toll on families as well as the ruling class. This is the situation we find in book one of “The Tudor Mystery Trials” series. First we have the unfortunate demise of King Edward VI—fraught with Northumberland’s failed coup to put Jane Grey on the throne—then Queen Mary’s early days beset with rebellion in favor of Elizabeth. These events create a gloomy backdrop to this family saga, where brother seeks the death of brother in a convoluted twist of who is legitimate and who is the bastard. Of the three Fitzwarrens, Jack is the underdog who resents his brother Richard while doggedly sticking by him—sometimes as protector, sometimes as servant—though we are never entirely sure why: “His brother’s words, spoken so close, so quietly, almost made him jump. Suppressing the reaction, Jack took a deep breath, giving himself time to bury the reply, which threatened to burst forth. Re-buckling the strap with care, and untying Richard’s horse, he turned and handed the reins to his brother, knuckles white on the leather.” This state of affairs continues throughout the novel. Richard is caustic, pretending not to care what happens to him or anyone else, though his loyal friends know better. Jack is only marginally less caustic, though he has more trouble hiding his feelings. The third brother Robert is just an out-and-out villain. Of the three, Richard is quick on his feet and ingratiates himself with first one side then the other side of the dynastic struggle. Jack comes along for the ride; apparently he has nowhere else to go. The plots and counter-plots were hard for me to follow, but I did get a sense that no matter what the loyalty, the common man is on his own. It is a pitiless time and this is not a happy book. None of the characters are easy to relate to, and the family feud would doubtless have taken place regardless of political maneuvering of the great lords and ladies. Nonetheless, we get a good view of the dangers surrounding an uneasy succession and we see that finding yourself on the wrong side of the law can be an accident as easily as a deliberate choice.
September 9, 2017
‘The mist still clung to the fields and stole the colour from the trees as the men gathered for the hunt.’
Sixteenth century Tudor England provides the setting for this novel. Uncertainty about the succession as Edward VI’s life draws to a close provides a suitable backdrop for both political intrigue and deep family secrets.
Enter Richard Fitzwarren. Richard Fitzwarren once worked within Thomas Seymour’s household, as part of his intelligence network. Richard’s close friendship with Princess Elizabeth was deemed inappropriate and he was banished to France. But when Richard returns to England, with his mercenary band, he apparently remains loyal to Elizabeth despite intriguing with Northumberland to place Lady Jane Grey on the throne. Richard’s bastard brother Jack is by his side. The two brothers are very different: Jack is impatient and impulsive and is desperately seeking acceptance as Richard’s equal. There’s another brother as well, Robert, who is the Fitzwarren heir.
‘There’s a story here, am I right?’
Ms Burnell has constructed an interesting work of fiction in and around the history of the period.
Richard Fitzwarren is a complex character: detached and secretive, it is difficult to be sure exactly where his loyalties might lie. There is more to him (and to the story) than immediately meets the eye. There are several layers to this novel, and a huge cast of characters.
I found parts of the novel intriguing, and there’s always room in my list of fictional characters for a hero (or antihero) with cornflower blue eyes, blond hair and complex family relationships. I’m interested in how this story will develop, and will be looking out for the next instalment.
‘The sea was stormy, which was bad – both for those who earned their living from its depths and those who wished to travel over its surface.’
Note: Ms Burnell offered, and I accepted, a free electronic copy of this novel for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Sixteenth century Tudor England provides the setting for this novel. Uncertainty about the succession as Edward VI’s life draws to a close provides a suitable backdrop for both political intrigue and deep family secrets.
Enter Richard Fitzwarren. Richard Fitzwarren once worked within Thomas Seymour’s household, as part of his intelligence network. Richard’s close friendship with Princess Elizabeth was deemed inappropriate and he was banished to France. But when Richard returns to England, with his mercenary band, he apparently remains loyal to Elizabeth despite intriguing with Northumberland to place Lady Jane Grey on the throne. Richard’s bastard brother Jack is by his side. The two brothers are very different: Jack is impatient and impulsive and is desperately seeking acceptance as Richard’s equal. There’s another brother as well, Robert, who is the Fitzwarren heir.
‘There’s a story here, am I right?’
Ms Burnell has constructed an interesting work of fiction in and around the history of the period.
Richard Fitzwarren is a complex character: detached and secretive, it is difficult to be sure exactly where his loyalties might lie. There is more to him (and to the story) than immediately meets the eye. There are several layers to this novel, and a huge cast of characters.
I found parts of the novel intriguing, and there’s always room in my list of fictional characters for a hero (or antihero) with cornflower blue eyes, blond hair and complex family relationships. I’m interested in how this story will develop, and will be looking out for the next instalment.
‘The sea was stormy, which was bad – both for those who earned their living from its depths and those who wished to travel over its surface.’
Note: Ms Burnell offered, and I accepted, a free electronic copy of this novel for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
April 24, 2018
This book was an enjoyable read, very well-written, and immediately engaging right from the beginning. I was glad for the opportunity to read it. I'm a sucker for historical fiction, especially in medieval England where this particular story takes place.
The story begins just before the ending of poor little Edward's short life, and in the midst of that national turmoil, is the story of several feuding brothers, including Jack, an illegitimate son. He's a smart, resourceful fellow who knows what to do to get what he wants. Teaming up with his half-brother Richard, they begin a climb for power that can only end in success or dismal failure.
I would have liked the POV to be a little more solid. To stay in one person's head at a time, I mean, rather than jumping around from head to head, or for the narrator to tell us what was going on in several heads at once. That disrupts point of view, and has the potential of annoying/confusing a reader.
Overall, I enjoyed the story, and I think the author did a fantastic job bringing this part of history to life!
The story begins just before the ending of poor little Edward's short life, and in the midst of that national turmoil, is the story of several feuding brothers, including Jack, an illegitimate son. He's a smart, resourceful fellow who knows what to do to get what he wants. Teaming up with his half-brother Richard, they begin a climb for power that can only end in success or dismal failure.
I would have liked the POV to be a little more solid. To stay in one person's head at a time, I mean, rather than jumping around from head to head, or for the narrator to tell us what was going on in several heads at once. That disrupts point of view, and has the potential of annoying/confusing a reader.
Overall, I enjoyed the story, and I think the author did a fantastic job bringing this part of history to life!
October 13, 2017
As someone who loves historical fiction, especially the Phillipa Gregory series about Plantagenet and Tudor England, I was intrigued by how A Queen’s Spy has a new angle on the events after Henry VIII died. When people begin to realize that Edward, Henry’s young son, is on his deathbed, plots and schemes are not only in the halls of power but also in the trenches among those who made a living with their swords. The book tells of two brothers making their living as mercenaries in the service of whoever was willing to pay. As the battle for power between Mary and Elizabeth rages, the pressure increases for mercenaries trying to pick the right side. Drama in the story is heightened by the hatred among brothers and the bitterness that comes from one brother inheriting everything, while others have nothing but their wits and their fighting prowess. The lies and secrets about their father’s bastard adds mystery to the story. Samantha Burnell tells a good story and creates fascinating characters and settings with impressive historical detail. Her writing is truly special, with memorable lines like: “Fate is the excuse of the uninventive, the unimaginative, and the ignorant. I had no idea you are all three!”
October 24, 2017
A Queen’s Spy: The Tudor Mystery Trials.
As Queen Mary looks set to take the English throne, an interesting plot surrounds Elizabeth’s spy network. I have read a lot in the Tudor era, but this book offered a new perspective through its focus on Elizabeth’s supporters. There is a large cast of interesting characters - some familiar to me and others not -and I appreciated the character list at the beginning. I particularly liked Catherine de Bernay and her interactions with Jack and Richard. The content seems well researched and felt authentic. Because of the large cast, I enjoyed the latter part better than the first, but once I became familiar with the characters I found the story compelling.
A must read for all historical fiction fans, particularly those interested in the Tudor era.
As Queen Mary looks set to take the English throne, an interesting plot surrounds Elizabeth’s spy network. I have read a lot in the Tudor era, but this book offered a new perspective through its focus on Elizabeth’s supporters. There is a large cast of interesting characters - some familiar to me and others not -and I appreciated the character list at the beginning. I particularly liked Catherine de Bernay and her interactions with Jack and Richard. The content seems well researched and felt authentic. Because of the large cast, I enjoyed the latter part better than the first, but once I became familiar with the characters I found the story compelling.
A must read for all historical fiction fans, particularly those interested in the Tudor era.
October 11, 2017
"Let them hate, so long as they fear."
A tale of scandal and intrigue in Renaissance England, where several players—mostly family—vie for ascension. The author certainly knows enough about this time period to render an accurate portrayal. Verisimilitude, or, essentially, believability, in writing is what keeps me invested in any novel. Although fiction, I have to know that it could’ve been real, or that it might’ve happened. With that being said, this 16th century setting is palpable and convincing.
This was historical without being tedious, with enough plot twists and adventure to hold my attention. Thumbs up!
A tale of scandal and intrigue in Renaissance England, where several players—mostly family—vie for ascension. The author certainly knows enough about this time period to render an accurate portrayal. Verisimilitude, or, essentially, believability, in writing is what keeps me invested in any novel. Although fiction, I have to know that it could’ve been real, or that it might’ve happened. With that being said, this 16th century setting is palpable and convincing.
This was historical without being tedious, with enough plot twists and adventure to hold my attention. Thumbs up!
March 9, 2018
A Queen's Spy was a gripping mystery. As a reader, I usually don't like stories set in this time period, but this was an exception. I really liked the attention to detail that made the setting and characters come to life. I really enjoyed Burnell's writing style and I am interested to see how the series progresses.
December 8, 2018
History can be fun
A fictional historical which is a fun read. A period story with just enough historical facts to lend a solid backdrop. Characters are deep and interesting to follow. A connection is made with each and their unique Idiosyncrasies keep the story moving in unexpected ways.
A fictional historical which is a fun read. A period story with just enough historical facts to lend a solid backdrop. Characters are deep and interesting to follow. A connection is made with each and their unique Idiosyncrasies keep the story moving in unexpected ways.
January 15, 2018
With its lush descriptions and impeccably researched historical details, this book will appeal to fans of Philippa Gregory, Hilary Mantel, and Alison Weir. Much gratitude to the author for her work and for her support of my work!
March 13, 2018
I had a wonderful trip diving into this bit of historical fiction. It was well written with great attention to details that should seem familiar to people with any knowledge of this time in history. You can't help but be drawn into the characters world and face every step of the drama with them. I can't wait to see what else this author is working on!
October 17, 2017
Brill!
Took me a while but once into this story couldn't put it down and I was there! Next one should be good. Thank you for writing it
Took me a while but once into this story couldn't put it down and I was there! Next one should be good. Thank you for writing it
November 23, 2018
Wonderfully written historically pertinent novel.
From the first page my interest was piqued and I remained rapt through the entire story. The minute I finish this review (stellar author and novel)I am getting part 2 and following Jack’s escapades.
From the first page my interest was piqued and I remained rapt through the entire story. The minute I finish this review (stellar author and novel)I am getting part 2 and following Jack’s escapades.
May 23, 2019
Disjointed narrative.
February 6, 2018
Full review posted at:
http://www.momkatreads.com/2018/02/a-...
http://www.momkatreads.com/2018/02/a-...
April 26, 2025
An interesting story but hard going to read
November 30, 2017
Could have been 5 *
An intriguing plot an well draws characters, I can't wait for the next book. Pity it was marred by some minor niggles. How does Richard take so long to recover from a wound that he says is one a scratch while Jack after apparently having been beaten almost to death is up and around in a few days? Don't want to say too much as I wouldn't want to spoil it for other readers.
An intriguing plot an well draws characters, I can't wait for the next book. Pity it was marred by some minor niggles. How does Richard take so long to recover from a wound that he says is one a scratch while Jack after apparently having been beaten almost to death is up and around in a few days? Don't want to say too much as I wouldn't want to spoil it for other readers.
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