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A Tapestry of Treason
‘Gripping’ The Times
Her actions could make history – but at what price?
1399: Constance of York, Lady Despenser, proves herself more than a mere observer in the devious intrigues of her magnificently dysfunctional family, The House of York.
Surrounded by power-hungry men, including her aggressively self-centred husband Thomas and ruthless siblings Edward and Richard, Constance places herself at the heart of two treasonous plots against King Henry IV. Will it be possible for this Plantagenet family to safeguard its own political power by restoring either King Richard II to the throne, or the precarious Mortimer claimant?
Although the execution of these conspiracies will place them all in jeopardy, Constance is not deterred, even when the cost of her ambition threatens to overwhelm her. Even when it endangers her new-found happiness.
With treason, tragedy, heartbreak and betrayal, this is the story of a woman ahead of her time, fighting for herself and what she believes to be right in a world of men.
Giving voice to the forgotten women of history, this is the next brilliant historical novel from Sunday Times bestselling author Anne O’Brien.
Praise for A Tapestry of Treason
‘A wonderful novel . . . a rich, gripping, enchanting read. Anne’s vivid writing took me straight to the year 1400 and kept me wonderfully lost there throughout’ Joanna Courtney
Praise for Anne O’Brien
‘O’Brien cleverly intertwines the personal and political in this enjoyable, gripping tale’ The Times
‘O’Brien is a terrific storyteller’ Daily Telegraph
‘A gripping story of love, heartache and political intrigue’ Woman Home
‘Packed with drama, danger, romance and history … the perfect reading choice for the long winter nights’ The Press Association
‘A gripping historical drama’ Bella
Her actions could make history – but at what price?
1399: Constance of York, Lady Despenser, proves herself more than a mere observer in the devious intrigues of her magnificently dysfunctional family, The House of York.
Surrounded by power-hungry men, including her aggressively self-centred husband Thomas and ruthless siblings Edward and Richard, Constance places herself at the heart of two treasonous plots against King Henry IV. Will it be possible for this Plantagenet family to safeguard its own political power by restoring either King Richard II to the throne, or the precarious Mortimer claimant?
Although the execution of these conspiracies will place them all in jeopardy, Constance is not deterred, even when the cost of her ambition threatens to overwhelm her. Even when it endangers her new-found happiness.
With treason, tragedy, heartbreak and betrayal, this is the story of a woman ahead of her time, fighting for herself and what she believes to be right in a world of men.
Giving voice to the forgotten women of history, this is the next brilliant historical novel from Sunday Times bestselling author Anne O’Brien.
Praise for A Tapestry of Treason
‘A wonderful novel . . . a rich, gripping, enchanting read. Anne’s vivid writing took me straight to the year 1400 and kept me wonderfully lost there throughout’ Joanna Courtney
Praise for Anne O’Brien
‘O’Brien cleverly intertwines the personal and political in this enjoyable, gripping tale’ The Times
‘O’Brien is a terrific storyteller’ Daily Telegraph
‘A gripping story of love, heartache and political intrigue’ Woman Home
‘Packed with drama, danger, romance and history … the perfect reading choice for the long winter nights’ The Press Association
‘A gripping historical drama’ Bella
512 pages, Paperback
First published August 22, 2019
529 people are currently reading
1437 people want to read
About the author
Anne O'Brien
65 books761 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
My home is in the Welsh Marches, although much of my early life was spent in Yorkshire, most recently in the East Riding.Ann O'Brien The Marches is a remote region of England, surrounded by echoes from the past. Hereford is close with its famous Mappa Mundi and chained library.So is Shrewsbury, and also Ludlow with its splendid castle and its connections with our Plantagenet and Tudor kings. With my husband, I live in an eighteenth century timber framed cottage, which itself must have seen much history over two hundred years.
I have always enjoyed the appeal of History.I taught the subject with enthusiasm but it became my ambition to write historical romances. My first novel, The Runaway Heiress, was published by Mills and Boon in 2004.
This first book was a Regency Romance in the great tradition of Georgette Heyer - who has not admired her skill and delicate touch for the period? I have drawn on my interest in the Stuart century to write about the English Civil War and Restoration England of Charles II. Living in the Marches however I soon discovered the wealth of atmosphere and legend in this isolated part of England from medieval times. It was not long before I was encouraged to create a medieval romance inConquering Knight, Captive Lady.
When not writing, I have a large rambling garden where George and I grow organic vegetables and soft fruit - or perhaps I should admit that he grows them whilst I pick and cook them. We have a wild garden, an orchard, a formal pond and herbaceous flower borders. We share it all with rabbits and pheasants, frogs and goldfinches, hedgehogs and buzzards. It is a beautiful place. When we first settled into our cottage I planted a herb garden on a Tudor pattern with stone pathways and clipped box hedges. From this I developed my interest in herbs and their uses.
Nicholas Culpeper's The Complete Herbal, a fascinating resource to a historical novelist first published in 1649, has become essential bedside reading. As a result the use of herbs in medicine and witchcraft, for both good and ill, has appeared in some of my novels.
For pure relaxation I enjoy yoga as well as singing with a local Choral Society. Watercolour painting allows me to simply sit and appreciate the landscape and the flowers in my garden, when my mind is busy constructing my next plot.
My home is in the Welsh Marches, although much of my early life was spent in Yorkshire, most recently in the East Riding.Ann O'Brien The Marches is a remote region of England, surrounded by echoes from the past. Hereford is close with its famous Mappa Mundi and chained library.So is Shrewsbury, and also Ludlow with its splendid castle and its connections with our Plantagenet and Tudor kings. With my husband, I live in an eighteenth century timber framed cottage, which itself must have seen much history over two hundred years.
I have always enjoyed the appeal of History.I taught the subject with enthusiasm but it became my ambition to write historical romances. My first novel, The Runaway Heiress, was published by Mills and Boon in 2004.
This first book was a Regency Romance in the great tradition of Georgette Heyer - who has not admired her skill and delicate touch for the period? I have drawn on my interest in the Stuart century to write about the English Civil War and Restoration England of Charles II. Living in the Marches however I soon discovered the wealth of atmosphere and legend in this isolated part of England from medieval times. It was not long before I was encouraged to create a medieval romance inConquering Knight, Captive Lady.
When not writing, I have a large rambling garden where George and I grow organic vegetables and soft fruit - or perhaps I should admit that he grows them whilst I pick and cook them. We have a wild garden, an orchard, a formal pond and herbaceous flower borders. We share it all with rabbits and pheasants, frogs and goldfinches, hedgehogs and buzzards. It is a beautiful place. When we first settled into our cottage I planted a herb garden on a Tudor pattern with stone pathways and clipped box hedges. From this I developed my interest in herbs and their uses.
Nicholas Culpeper's The Complete Herbal, a fascinating resource to a historical novelist first published in 1649, has become essential bedside reading. As a result the use of herbs in medicine and witchcraft, for both good and ill, has appeared in some of my novels.
For pure relaxation I enjoy yoga as well as singing with a local Choral Society. Watercolour painting allows me to simply sit and appreciate the landscape and the flowers in my garden, when my mind is busy constructing my next plot.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
August 27, 2019
Anne O'Brien's historical novels are always a joy to behold, and this one is no different. The fact each of the books are based on real, living people make them all the more fascinating. A Tapestry of Treason is nothing less than a gem of a book with the inimitable and unforgettable Lady Constance of York who it is easy to despise initially. I would say that she is definitely the most multidimensional character the author has presented to date. Fourteenth-century England was a brutal place to reside and Constance's world was filled with what appears to be endless treason and conspiracy. The court of King Henry certainly provides plenty of drama and tension.
What makes this book, though, is Lady Constance's three-dimensionality and the extensively researched plot which allows the reader to easily travel back in time and imagine the sights, sounds and smells of the time period; it depicts some incredibly vivid scenes. Constance is a cold and seemingly emotionless person, but you can't help but warm to her a little as time goes on. As we've come to expect, this is a beautifully written piece and historical fiction at its very finest. I read it in a single sitting and instantly regretted not savouring it more! If you like the atmosphere in Philipa Gregory or Alison Weir's books then you will find much to love here too. Many thanks to HQ for an ARC.
What makes this book, though, is Lady Constance's three-dimensionality and the extensively researched plot which allows the reader to easily travel back in time and imagine the sights, sounds and smells of the time period; it depicts some incredibly vivid scenes. Constance is a cold and seemingly emotionless person, but you can't help but warm to her a little as time goes on. As we've come to expect, this is a beautifully written piece and historical fiction at its very finest. I read it in a single sitting and instantly regretted not savouring it more! If you like the atmosphere in Philipa Gregory or Alison Weir's books then you will find much to love here too. Many thanks to HQ for an ARC.
May 25, 2021
Struggling with devices...I just wanted to note that I enjoyed this long book. It did take a while to get through it all but it was dramatically told and held ones attention as Constance of York was a commanding central figure. Maybe this connection will behave long enough to add a bit more about royal shenanigans and struggles behind the scenes where plays for power were always being schemed and no one could rely on plans made with others in secret. 1399 was a difficult and treacherous time for members of the House of York.
Very good deal on Amazon for kindle right now.
Very good deal on Amazon for kindle right now.
July 25, 2019
I can totally see why Anne O'Brian is universally loved, the historical detail is certainly second to none. However, for me, the book just did not quite work. I expected more flair, I think and more of the character of Constance, she only really came fully alive to me when her heart was broken in the end and considering that was the part where the author had to make up a lot because no one quite knows what happens, I think it is fair to say, that I personally like my historical fiction with more creative license.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2019
A Tapestry of Treason begins with an attempt to foretell the future, and I found myself trying to recall what I knew of the actual events of the time. Although I know a great deal about King Henry V, I knew less about how his father claimed the throne - and little of the story of Constance of York, Countess Despenser.
Anne O'Brien uses first-person narrative to take us deep within the troubling world of this amazing woman. It took me a little while to warm to Constance’s often cynical view of those around her. A deeply flawed character, it’s hard not to judge her against modern standards until we learn why she behave as she does.
Evocative and captivating, this wonderfully researched book is a good example of why we need historical fiction to ‘fill in the gaps’ of the historical record. On the face of it, Constance deserves everything she gets (and loses), yet we feel her frustration of having to watch from the sidelines of what is very much a man’s world.
I particularly liked the used of the tapestry of the title to provide threads of gold and silk which run through the narrative, reminding us that, even in the hardest times, this is a world of royal privilege.
This is the tenth historical fiction novel from Anne O'Brien. I have read them all, and in my view this is the best so far. Highly recommended.
Tony Riches
Anne O'Brien uses first-person narrative to take us deep within the troubling world of this amazing woman. It took me a little while to warm to Constance’s often cynical view of those around her. A deeply flawed character, it’s hard not to judge her against modern standards until we learn why she behave as she does.
Evocative and captivating, this wonderfully researched book is a good example of why we need historical fiction to ‘fill in the gaps’ of the historical record. On the face of it, Constance deserves everything she gets (and loses), yet we feel her frustration of having to watch from the sidelines of what is very much a man’s world.
I particularly liked the used of the tapestry of the title to provide threads of gold and silk which run through the narrative, reminding us that, even in the hardest times, this is a world of royal privilege.
This is the tenth historical fiction novel from Anne O'Brien. I have read them all, and in my view this is the best so far. Highly recommended.
Tony Riches
November 14, 2019
This was such a brilliant read. I’d never heard of Constance Despenser before but really enjoyed reading this story and that of her York family. So much plotting, treachery and betrayal going on. Brilliantly written this made me want to find out more.
July 14, 2020
I came within a hair's breadth of DNFing this @34% but I'm actually kind of glad that I persevered.
This is the tale of Constance (York) le Despenser starting from Henry IV's siezing of the crown from Richard II in the late 14th century. She's a person you don't read much about but there were a lot of interesting maneuverings happening and I found it interesting to learn about the ancestors of the Yorks who were involved in the War of the Roses.
There are a few reasons why I almost DNFed. The big one was a complete lack of ambiance, no description of place or the feel of the place and time. Constance speaks only to her father, brothers, stepmother and occasionally the King. There are literally no interactions with anyone else. But she's at Court and of Royal blood so?? There must have been more going on than small family meetings and brooding?? This could have all been happening in 20th century Europe for all the lacking descriptions.
The other issue was a lack of character development. We're thrown into the story in the middle of Constance's inner monologue but there's no Constance, just a 2-dimensional blank. I couldn't care less about any of it and I really like unlikeable anti-heros. She was definitely unlikeable but there just wasn't anything there to get invested in.
As the novel progresses and moves slightly into romance territory (not enough to annoy non-romance readers), there is a bit more ambiance and character development so I was able to get a second wind and keep at it, but Constance still remained an unexplained character. The author can only speculate on her motives but the author's choices seemed wrong and inconsistent with how the character had been portrayed up until that point. It all felt very unlikely.
This is my second Anne O'Brien book, after Queen of the North, and they've both been lacking. I think I might be done reading her books.
This is the tale of Constance (York) le Despenser starting from Henry IV's siezing of the crown from Richard II in the late 14th century. She's a person you don't read much about but there were a lot of interesting maneuverings happening and I found it interesting to learn about the ancestors of the Yorks who were involved in the War of the Roses.
There are a few reasons why I almost DNFed. The big one was a complete lack of ambiance, no description of place or the feel of the place and time. Constance speaks only to her father, brothers, stepmother and occasionally the King. There are literally no interactions with anyone else. But she's at Court and of Royal blood so?? There must have been more going on than small family meetings and brooding?? This could have all been happening in 20th century Europe for all the lacking descriptions.
The other issue was a lack of character development. We're thrown into the story in the middle of Constance's inner monologue but there's no Constance, just a 2-dimensional blank. I couldn't care less about any of it and I really like unlikeable anti-heros. She was definitely unlikeable but there just wasn't anything there to get invested in.
As the novel progresses and moves slightly into romance territory (not enough to annoy non-romance readers), there is a bit more ambiance and character development so I was able to get a second wind and keep at it, but Constance still remained an unexplained character. The author can only speculate on her motives but the author's choices seemed wrong and inconsistent with how the character had been portrayed up until that point. It all felt very unlikely.
This is my second Anne O'Brien book, after Queen of the North, and they've both been lacking. I think I might be done reading her books.
August 19, 2019
Stunning.
A Tapestry of Treason is a stunning novel. The character of Lady Constance is a revelation - she is perhaps the most complicated of Anne O'Brien's historical 'women' to date, and the book delightfully fluctuates between the conspiracies and treasons that she's involved in, even though she is, but a woman in a man's world. How she survived the king's wrath on so many occasions is a bit of a miracle.
In the end, I was completely hooked on the novel, and just read the last 40% or so in one sitting, in heightened anxiety from each high to each new low. Lady Constance certainly wins the heart of the reader, even if she herself would never admit to even having a heart.
I believe this is the best of Anne O'Brien's books to date.
Thank you to the Netgalley and the publisher for my review copy. I would certainly have read it anyway - and I'm just delighted I got to read it so far in advance of being released.
A Tapestry of Treason is a stunning novel. The character of Lady Constance is a revelation - she is perhaps the most complicated of Anne O'Brien's historical 'women' to date, and the book delightfully fluctuates between the conspiracies and treasons that she's involved in, even though she is, but a woman in a man's world. How she survived the king's wrath on so many occasions is a bit of a miracle.
In the end, I was completely hooked on the novel, and just read the last 40% or so in one sitting, in heightened anxiety from each high to each new low. Lady Constance certainly wins the heart of the reader, even if she herself would never admit to even having a heart.
I believe this is the best of Anne O'Brien's books to date.
Thank you to the Netgalley and the publisher for my review copy. I would certainly have read it anyway - and I'm just delighted I got to read it so far in advance of being released.
September 13, 2022
It took me a while to get into this book as it took some time to get to know the main characters, but once into it, I was captivated. Anne O’Brien brings history alive very engagingly.
June 2, 2019
It begins in 1399 and Constance of York, Lady Despenser a favourite at the court of Richard II becomes embroiled in a plot to overthrow Henry IV when he takes the throne from Richard.
The plot is discovered and her husband Thomas is executed. Constance has been betrayed but not for the last time.
Constance faces another plot and is again betrayed before being imprisoned. On her release she discovers a final betrayal which makes her turn away from life at court and men.
This story is brilliant! A character who I at first found arrogant I came to admire. She faces betrayal from those closest to her and heartbreak. I was unaware of the history of Constance so this was eye opening. O'Brien succeeds in putting you in to the heart of the life of Constance.
I also enjoyed the additional information at the end of what happened to each character.
I'd recommend this to anyone with an interest in the Plantagenets or just general history fans like myself!
The plot is discovered and her husband Thomas is executed. Constance has been betrayed but not for the last time.
Constance faces another plot and is again betrayed before being imprisoned. On her release she discovers a final betrayal which makes her turn away from life at court and men.
This story is brilliant! A character who I at first found arrogant I came to admire. She faces betrayal from those closest to her and heartbreak. I was unaware of the history of Constance so this was eye opening. O'Brien succeeds in putting you in to the heart of the life of Constance.
I also enjoyed the additional information at the end of what happened to each character.
I'd recommend this to anyone with an interest in the Plantagenets or just general history fans like myself!
August 22, 2019
This is such a fabulous read! If you enjoy historical fiction about lesser known characters, you’ll love Tapestry of Treason. I hadn’t heard of Constance of York, Lady Despenser, before reading this book, so found myself quite captivated by her story. I think the author has done a brilliant job of bringing Constance to life, really getting inside her head by way of a first person type of narrative. What a feisty, determined and ambitious lady she was. Plotting against King Henry IV being just part of Constance’s life’s rich tapestry. She’s a great advert for the old adage ‘if at first you don’t succeed, try, try and try again’! It’s beautifully written and cleverly woven. Superbly researched, Constance’s story is interesting, gripping and fascinating, as well as being educational. I can thoroughly recommend it.
March 1, 2024
Unusually for me, as a history lover, I found the first half of the book which focuses on the detail of the various plots to overthrow Henry IV rather a slog. I actually toyed with giving up on the book at one point, a rarity for me. However, once the author started to give us Constance the woman rather than the political machinator, it grabbed my interest.
That’s not to say I didn’t find Constance infuriating at times. Her pride, ambition and desire to be at the heart of things caused her to make many rash decisions, placing herself at risk of execution for treason. As she admits, ‘Had I not, for much of my adult life, been at the centre of a tapestry of treason, drenched in blood and death? I had stitched with my own hands and intellect to undermine and destroy.’ And the author’s description of her family as ‘magnificently dysfunctional’ is spot on. As Constance says, ‘in this household we talked politics and power’. But she was also the subject of betrayal herself, more than once, including at the hands of someone she should have been able to rely on.
For much of the book Constance comes across as stony-hearted, ferociously ambitious and desperate to be at the heart of events. That is until her icy heart is unexpectedly melted. Historical romance isn’t a genre I’m attracted to but even I found myself more and more invested in Constance’s affair with a member of the Royal Court, an affair which had to remain secret.
The book is packed with detail, not just about historical personages and events, but about clothing (where a glossary would have been useful), food, social customs and royal palaces. It has to be said the lives of ordinary people are consigned to the background; they’re largely unnamed figures at the beck and call of their masters.
That’s not to say I didn’t find Constance infuriating at times. Her pride, ambition and desire to be at the heart of things caused her to make many rash decisions, placing herself at risk of execution for treason. As she admits, ‘Had I not, for much of my adult life, been at the centre of a tapestry of treason, drenched in blood and death? I had stitched with my own hands and intellect to undermine and destroy.’ And the author’s description of her family as ‘magnificently dysfunctional’ is spot on. As Constance says, ‘in this household we talked politics and power’. But she was also the subject of betrayal herself, more than once, including at the hands of someone she should have been able to rely on.
For much of the book Constance comes across as stony-hearted, ferociously ambitious and desperate to be at the heart of events. That is until her icy heart is unexpectedly melted. Historical romance isn’t a genre I’m attracted to but even I found myself more and more invested in Constance’s affair with a member of the Royal Court, an affair which had to remain secret.
The book is packed with detail, not just about historical personages and events, but about clothing (where a glossary would have been useful), food, social customs and royal palaces. It has to be said the lives of ordinary people are consigned to the background; they’re largely unnamed figures at the beck and call of their masters.
December 26, 2020
A story of conspiracy during the Medieval period and the Plantagenet family.
Anne O'Brien is an expert in the Medieval period and it shines through everything she writes. Every detail is accurate without being textbook dry.
The story opens with monk who is also a fortune teller. Here the future is laid out that bad times are ahead without anything specific being foreseen. It is quite a slow start while the scene is set for the start of the Wars of the Roses, the conflicts between the brothers and their families beginning to take shape. Too long is spent discussing the loveless political marriages that the women endure. Unfortunately, Medieval women had only the power of plotting and manipulation in those days, so all stories from women's perspectives are a tad short on action.
Having said that, Constance of York is a real person about whom most of us know nothing. She is a fascinating character. From the side of the House of York we see the rebellions and treason from her point of view. As the story develops it becomes fraught with danger with so many ruthless, ambitious and unlikable men all vying for power.
This is a rich book, full of vivid history and expertly written. The Plantagenets are one of England's most colourful royal dynasties and it makes a nice change to read about one of the women as she plots against Henry IV. At times it is gripping: this is history threaded with disloyalty, disappointment and yes, treason .
Anne O'Brien is an expert in the Medieval period and it shines through everything she writes. Every detail is accurate without being textbook dry.
The story opens with monk who is also a fortune teller. Here the future is laid out that bad times are ahead without anything specific being foreseen. It is quite a slow start while the scene is set for the start of the Wars of the Roses, the conflicts between the brothers and their families beginning to take shape. Too long is spent discussing the loveless political marriages that the women endure. Unfortunately, Medieval women had only the power of plotting and manipulation in those days, so all stories from women's perspectives are a tad short on action.
Having said that, Constance of York is a real person about whom most of us know nothing. She is a fascinating character. From the side of the House of York we see the rebellions and treason from her point of view. As the story develops it becomes fraught with danger with so many ruthless, ambitious and unlikable men all vying for power.
This is a rich book, full of vivid history and expertly written. The Plantagenets are one of England's most colourful royal dynasties and it makes a nice change to read about one of the women as she plots against Henry IV. At times it is gripping: this is history threaded with disloyalty, disappointment and yes, treason .
September 24, 2019
Anne OBrien continues to be one of my favourite authors and i look forward to each upcoming novel. The book is about the life of Constance of York under the reign of Henry IV. The author has clearly spent a lot of time researching this intriguing lady shown in all the little details and dialogue. Constance was certainly a firebrand in her time. However i just felt the book switched paces. It went from being full of plotting and treason to a bit of a damp love story which ended somewhere in the middle of her life. What happened to her and her family??? It does not put me off awaiting the next book to come out but this was definitely not her best book.
August 26, 2019
1399: Constance of York, Lady Dispenser, granddaughter of Edward III proves herself more than just an observer in the political manoeuvring of her gloriously dysfuctional family - The House of York.
Constance is surrounded by power-hungry men, in the form of her brothers and husband, who are hell-bent on ensuring that they remain powerful figures behind the throne - whichever of their cousins happen to be on the throne at the time.
When we first meet Constance, her cousin Richard II (son of Edward The Black Prince, Edward III's eldest son) is on the throne. Richard II is the rightful heir in the eyes of the law, but he has made powerful enemies during his reign - especially his cousin Henry (son of John of Gaunt, Edward III's third son), who has been exiled by Richard.
When Richard II goes off to quell unrest in Ireland, Henry takes his chance to seize power. Richard's delay in returning to England, whether by accident or design, leads to him being taken prisoner by Henry's forces and a peace is brokered by Constance's father, Edmund, Duke of York, which ushers in a new ruler.
Richard is persuaded to abdicate in favour of his cousin Henry and a new king - Henry IV takes power.
Although Constance's father has helped bring in the new reign, her family were firm favourites with Richard II and they are concerned about the looming prospect of loss of the power and titles they have gained. While her elder brother Edward does his best to inveigle himself into Henry's good graces, peace and harmony are only a facade. They are unhappy about the way Richard has been deposed and treason lies in their hearts.
The execution of their conspiracies will place them all in danger and Constance is at the very heart of their treason, even though her plans may endanger her own happiness. Constance is a woman ahead of her time, fighting for recognition in a world ruled by men.
This is a story of treason, tragedy, heartbreak and betrayal...
I love, love, love historical fiction and cannot believe that I have not read one of Anne O'Brien's books before now! I was completely transported back in time by this splendid book and found it utterly absorbing.
A Tapestry of Treason will introduce you to the very beginning of the rivalry between the Houses of York and Lancaster - Constance's own father was made the first Duke of York, and Henry IV's father John of Gaunt was similarly the first Duke of Lancaster - both created by their own father, Edward III. And so began a conflict that led to discord and bloodshed through the years, until the House of Tudor was finally established by Henry VII in 1485.
This book will give you a sumptuous and finely woven glimpse into the political machinations that defined this period of history - a tapestry of treason, inter-worked with the golden threads of ambition, secret plotting and murder!
What makes this book so special is that it is told from the point of view of a very unusual woman, in the form of Constance of York.
This is a time when well-born women are used as pawns in the game of power - married against their will to a husband who offers the most advantageous political alliance, or financial gain, to their own family.
Constance is at the very heart of the treasonous plans of her brother and husband, but she is confined to the role of daughter, sister, wife and mother by a society that holds women as mere chattels of their menfolk, and she does not sit well in this role - indeed it could be said that she has more brains and guile than all the men of her family put together! Constance certainly has more loyalty to the course of action they all set in motion, to her desperate cost.
Constance is certainly a difficult character to love - she has been brought up without feeling affection from either of her parents, or the husband she was married to at the age of four. She views things dispassionately and it is difficult to warm to her, at first. History certainly paints a very dark picture of her character, but this book will cause you to reassess how she has been portrayed, especially in the latter parts of her story.
Anne O'Brien skillfully catches you up in Constance's life and you soon begin to feel empathy with a woman whose fortunes are at the whim of the men surrounding her. She firmly believes she is doing what is best for her family, even if this means precipitating some very dark deeds.
There are some heartbreaking storms ahead for Constance to weather and I became quite angry and upset at the betrayals she experiences from not only the King she feels has gone against God's ordinance, but her own family, and the man she loves too. These were not easy times to be a woman and Constance is poorly used by the men she is close to in their complicated games of power.
I thoroughly enjoyed my look into the life of Constance of York and learnt a lot about the events surrounding the origins of the great rivalry between the Houses of York and Lancaster. Anne O'Brien has brought the past to life in A Tapestry of Treason by cleverly entwining the personal story of Constance with the political events of the time and this is a cracking historical novel.
Constance is surrounded by power-hungry men, in the form of her brothers and husband, who are hell-bent on ensuring that they remain powerful figures behind the throne - whichever of their cousins happen to be on the throne at the time.
When we first meet Constance, her cousin Richard II (son of Edward The Black Prince, Edward III's eldest son) is on the throne. Richard II is the rightful heir in the eyes of the law, but he has made powerful enemies during his reign - especially his cousin Henry (son of John of Gaunt, Edward III's third son), who has been exiled by Richard.
When Richard II goes off to quell unrest in Ireland, Henry takes his chance to seize power. Richard's delay in returning to England, whether by accident or design, leads to him being taken prisoner by Henry's forces and a peace is brokered by Constance's father, Edmund, Duke of York, which ushers in a new ruler.
Richard is persuaded to abdicate in favour of his cousin Henry and a new king - Henry IV takes power.
Although Constance's father has helped bring in the new reign, her family were firm favourites with Richard II and they are concerned about the looming prospect of loss of the power and titles they have gained. While her elder brother Edward does his best to inveigle himself into Henry's good graces, peace and harmony are only a facade. They are unhappy about the way Richard has been deposed and treason lies in their hearts.
The execution of their conspiracies will place them all in danger and Constance is at the very heart of their treason, even though her plans may endanger her own happiness. Constance is a woman ahead of her time, fighting for recognition in a world ruled by men.
This is a story of treason, tragedy, heartbreak and betrayal...
I love, love, love historical fiction and cannot believe that I have not read one of Anne O'Brien's books before now! I was completely transported back in time by this splendid book and found it utterly absorbing.
A Tapestry of Treason will introduce you to the very beginning of the rivalry between the Houses of York and Lancaster - Constance's own father was made the first Duke of York, and Henry IV's father John of Gaunt was similarly the first Duke of Lancaster - both created by their own father, Edward III. And so began a conflict that led to discord and bloodshed through the years, until the House of Tudor was finally established by Henry VII in 1485.
This book will give you a sumptuous and finely woven glimpse into the political machinations that defined this period of history - a tapestry of treason, inter-worked with the golden threads of ambition, secret plotting and murder!
What makes this book so special is that it is told from the point of view of a very unusual woman, in the form of Constance of York.
This is a time when well-born women are used as pawns in the game of power - married against their will to a husband who offers the most advantageous political alliance, or financial gain, to their own family.
Constance is at the very heart of the treasonous plans of her brother and husband, but she is confined to the role of daughter, sister, wife and mother by a society that holds women as mere chattels of their menfolk, and she does not sit well in this role - indeed it could be said that she has more brains and guile than all the men of her family put together! Constance certainly has more loyalty to the course of action they all set in motion, to her desperate cost.
Constance is certainly a difficult character to love - she has been brought up without feeling affection from either of her parents, or the husband she was married to at the age of four. She views things dispassionately and it is difficult to warm to her, at first. History certainly paints a very dark picture of her character, but this book will cause you to reassess how she has been portrayed, especially in the latter parts of her story.
Anne O'Brien skillfully catches you up in Constance's life and you soon begin to feel empathy with a woman whose fortunes are at the whim of the men surrounding her. She firmly believes she is doing what is best for her family, even if this means precipitating some very dark deeds.
There are some heartbreaking storms ahead for Constance to weather and I became quite angry and upset at the betrayals she experiences from not only the King she feels has gone against God's ordinance, but her own family, and the man she loves too. These were not easy times to be a woman and Constance is poorly used by the men she is close to in their complicated games of power.
I thoroughly enjoyed my look into the life of Constance of York and learnt a lot about the events surrounding the origins of the great rivalry between the Houses of York and Lancaster. Anne O'Brien has brought the past to life in A Tapestry of Treason by cleverly entwining the personal story of Constance with the political events of the time and this is a cracking historical novel.
October 9, 2019
When it comes to a gripping historical thriller, you can’t get better than a bit of Anne O’Brien. And with Tapestry of Treason, she’s surpassed herself: it’s a tightly plotted, tense and fascinating bit of political intrigue, with (gasp!) a woman at its centre.
The woman in question is Constance of York, or Lady Despenser. She’s a member of House York, one of the most powerful families in the land, and she also wants to make sure that her family rises to power. Thus begins a saga of plotting, scheming and betrayal, as she tries to navigate her way around shifting loyalties, changing times- and love.
Characters on the make
Where to begin? Constance is a great heroine: cold, ruthless and (to her own mind at least) unfeeling. She’s a Macchiavellian character, always on the lookout for things that could go to her advantage, taking advantage of the hand of friendship and using its cover to plot her next move. While her stubbornness does get frustrating, some of the most entertaining scenes in the book are her being dragged in front of her cousin- and King- Henry IV, as he decides how best to punish her, again, for her misdeeds.
That becomes significantly more complicated when she falls in love with Edmund Holland, Earl of Kent. The romance doesn’t ever eclipse the political intrigue, but it does add an extra flavour to it. The difference in how men and women make their way in the world- and the ways in which Constance has to act in order to be taken seriously by her family- just serve to illustrate how determined and smart this woman was. At a time when a woman’s duty was to get married and have children, this is certainly something different!
Treacherous politics!
The political landscape in this book is as nuanced as anything I’ve ever read. You really feel like you’re back in the 1400s- or at least, that Anne O’Brien has gone back in time and visited it herself. From the court politics of Henry IV to the way in which nobles stored their clothes, it’s all in here, and gives a real sense of authenticity to the book.
That’s not to say there’s not a bit of fiction woven into this. We start the story with a fortune telling, and large parts of this book are sketched in by O’Brien- as they have to be. This is a woman’s story, and very little is actually known about Constance’s life. What we do have, though- and what’s in this book- certainly implies it was a colourful one.
Travel back in time…
Well-researched and well-written, this is definitely a book for history fans! Though it can be a slow-paced at times, Constance is a fascinating historical figure, and O’Brien has definitely done justice to her complicated legacy with this. Go on, give it a read. You’ll be hooked!
The woman in question is Constance of York, or Lady Despenser. She’s a member of House York, one of the most powerful families in the land, and she also wants to make sure that her family rises to power. Thus begins a saga of plotting, scheming and betrayal, as she tries to navigate her way around shifting loyalties, changing times- and love.
Characters on the make
Where to begin? Constance is a great heroine: cold, ruthless and (to her own mind at least) unfeeling. She’s a Macchiavellian character, always on the lookout for things that could go to her advantage, taking advantage of the hand of friendship and using its cover to plot her next move. While her stubbornness does get frustrating, some of the most entertaining scenes in the book are her being dragged in front of her cousin- and King- Henry IV, as he decides how best to punish her, again, for her misdeeds.
That becomes significantly more complicated when she falls in love with Edmund Holland, Earl of Kent. The romance doesn’t ever eclipse the political intrigue, but it does add an extra flavour to it. The difference in how men and women make their way in the world- and the ways in which Constance has to act in order to be taken seriously by her family- just serve to illustrate how determined and smart this woman was. At a time when a woman’s duty was to get married and have children, this is certainly something different!
Treacherous politics!
The political landscape in this book is as nuanced as anything I’ve ever read. You really feel like you’re back in the 1400s- or at least, that Anne O’Brien has gone back in time and visited it herself. From the court politics of Henry IV to the way in which nobles stored their clothes, it’s all in here, and gives a real sense of authenticity to the book.
That’s not to say there’s not a bit of fiction woven into this. We start the story with a fortune telling, and large parts of this book are sketched in by O’Brien- as they have to be. This is a woman’s story, and very little is actually known about Constance’s life. What we do have, though- and what’s in this book- certainly implies it was a colourful one.
Travel back in time…
Well-researched and well-written, this is definitely a book for history fans! Though it can be a slow-paced at times, Constance is a fascinating historical figure, and O’Brien has definitely done justice to her complicated legacy with this. Go on, give it a read. You’ll be hooked!
August 21, 2019
The richness of A Tapestry of Treason is as sumptuous as anything that ever graced the walls of a medieval castle. Lovingly stitched by an author who continues to bring fascinating life to the forgotten women of our history.
Constance of York was born into a vainglorious and deeply ambitious family whose familial connection to Edward III places them close enough to royalty to always be a threat. It is their unwavering allegiance to Richard II which will prove to be disastrous when in 1399 their cousin Henry IV usurps Richard’s crown inciting the York’s do all they can to restore Richard back to power.
A clever blending of fact and fiction brings the mercurial medieval court of Henry IV to life. Filled with political intrigue and deadly ambition, Constance discovers that despite her cunning and formidable ability she is always at the mercy of men who would exploit and deceive her. Despite an uneasy marriage to Thomas, Lord Despenser, Constance is never far from political intrigue and her uncompromising personality and her capacity to be drawn into scandal is what makes this account of her life such a fascinating read. That Constance is a worthy heroine is in no doubt, her life reads like a modern day reality show, and yet, by the end of the novel I couldn't help but have enormous respect for the trials she endured during her life in which her undoubted charisma, tenacity and sheer strength of will are tested to the absolute limits.
Beautifully written and impeccably researched, A Tapestry of Treason is another absolute triumph of a novel from an author who allows us, with her clever words and vivid imagery, to experience life in medieval England. We stand shoulder to shoulder with those strong and decisive women who forged our history, not armed with crossbows on the battlefields of Europe, but who, in draughty anterooms and dusty solar, could be found cleverly plotting and deftly weaving together the tapestry threads of conspiracy, intrigue and deadly danger.
Constance of York was born into a vainglorious and deeply ambitious family whose familial connection to Edward III places them close enough to royalty to always be a threat. It is their unwavering allegiance to Richard II which will prove to be disastrous when in 1399 their cousin Henry IV usurps Richard’s crown inciting the York’s do all they can to restore Richard back to power.
A clever blending of fact and fiction brings the mercurial medieval court of Henry IV to life. Filled with political intrigue and deadly ambition, Constance discovers that despite her cunning and formidable ability she is always at the mercy of men who would exploit and deceive her. Despite an uneasy marriage to Thomas, Lord Despenser, Constance is never far from political intrigue and her uncompromising personality and her capacity to be drawn into scandal is what makes this account of her life such a fascinating read. That Constance is a worthy heroine is in no doubt, her life reads like a modern day reality show, and yet, by the end of the novel I couldn't help but have enormous respect for the trials she endured during her life in which her undoubted charisma, tenacity and sheer strength of will are tested to the absolute limits.
Beautifully written and impeccably researched, A Tapestry of Treason is another absolute triumph of a novel from an author who allows us, with her clever words and vivid imagery, to experience life in medieval England. We stand shoulder to shoulder with those strong and decisive women who forged our history, not armed with crossbows on the battlefields of Europe, but who, in draughty anterooms and dusty solar, could be found cleverly plotting and deftly weaving together the tapestry threads of conspiracy, intrigue and deadly danger.
August 22, 2019
Five stars +
A wonderful read. Such an historical story brought to life with delicious narrative woven into events surrounding; Richard II, Henry IV and political events subsuming the Royal Court and politics of the time. Beautiful imagery, realistic dialogue, excellent narration. It was great to read this on the Pigeonhole app along with other pigeon readers and the author Anne O’Brien, answering our questions and giving us pointers in history. I read each chapter with anticipation for the next, it’s certainly a page turner. Anne O’Brien gives Constance, as narrator an applied force lending a richness to the story, I’ve rarely seen in other history books. Anne O’Brien creates treachery, love, fear, excitement, awe, in this rich historical story bringing it to life as played out on a stage. This storyline is indeed a captivating one.
A wonderful read. Such an historical story brought to life with delicious narrative woven into events surrounding; Richard II, Henry IV and political events subsuming the Royal Court and politics of the time. Beautiful imagery, realistic dialogue, excellent narration. It was great to read this on the Pigeonhole app along with other pigeon readers and the author Anne O’Brien, answering our questions and giving us pointers in history. I read each chapter with anticipation for the next, it’s certainly a page turner. Anne O’Brien gives Constance, as narrator an applied force lending a richness to the story, I’ve rarely seen in other history books. Anne O’Brien creates treachery, love, fear, excitement, awe, in this rich historical story bringing it to life as played out on a stage. This storyline is indeed a captivating one.
August 27, 2019
https://thecaffeinatedreader.com/2019...
The first chapter just drops you in, you’re caught up immediately into the world that Constance of York occupies. There is no mistaking Anne O’Brien’s attempt to immerse you completely into this world. You are transported to 1399/1400s and it is rife with political intrigue.
O’Brien does a great task in not focusing too much on one set of details, in particular, instead, she takes everything into consideration. There is the expectation of women of the time, but also the reality of women in that period. They may not have much power out front but they can still do things their own way. Constance is a woman of ambition and of course that tends to make her not well received by others, viewed as immoral though others around her are forgiven and lauded for treasonous thoughts all because they are men and she’s a woman.
The first chapter just drops you in, you’re caught up immediately into the world that Constance of York occupies. There is no mistaking Anne O’Brien’s attempt to immerse you completely into this world. You are transported to 1399/1400s and it is rife with political intrigue.
O’Brien does a great task in not focusing too much on one set of details, in particular, instead, she takes everything into consideration. There is the expectation of women of the time, but also the reality of women in that period. They may not have much power out front but they can still do things their own way. Constance is a woman of ambition and of course that tends to make her not well received by others, viewed as immoral though others around her are forgiven and lauded for treasonous thoughts all because they are men and she’s a woman.
September 28, 2024
Out of the Anne O'Brien novels I have read thus far, this was the most enjoyable.
Set during the reign of Henry IV, what surprised me was the amount of influence that a women could have at Court at that time. It was also surprising how lenient Henry was when the plot to overthrow him came unstuck, and also how forgiving Constance was of her brother after he would willingly have lied and thus sent her to the gallows. It was also interesting to have Owen Glyndwr on the periphery of the action - I had heard a bit about him and it was good to learn of the context of his times.
This is a period of history about which I do not have a great deal of knowledge, so it was good to have the historical notes at the end of the book, alongside a list of suggested historical sites to visit.
Set during the reign of Henry IV, what surprised me was the amount of influence that a women could have at Court at that time. It was also surprising how lenient Henry was when the plot to overthrow him came unstuck, and also how forgiving Constance was of her brother after he would willingly have lied and thus sent her to the gallows. It was also interesting to have Owen Glyndwr on the periphery of the action - I had heard a bit about him and it was good to learn of the context of his times.
This is a period of history about which I do not have a great deal of knowledge, so it was good to have the historical notes at the end of the book, alongside a list of suggested historical sites to visit.
August 2, 2025
3⭐️⭐️⭐️.. middling. Very interesting period of history but the prose is a bit flat on the page with a lot of repetition of thought and consideration that causes it to drag a bit. I quite liked Constance, you had to be tough to survive arranged, loveless marriages and the endless court intrigues that might part head from body. The fact that she is a major player in some of these intrigues IRL was an eye opener.
May 29, 2019
What an interesting character in Constance of York. A truly strong woman in a man's world plotting intrigue and treasonous plots, totally loyal to her dysfunctional family even when they betray her. I didn't know much about the history leading up to the War of the Roses, this makes me want to know more. A fabulous story full of twists and turns.
August 20, 2019
Thanks to HQ and NetGalley for the Advance Review Copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book is set during a really rather fascinating period of British History, the period which formed the bedrock of the later War of the Roses. The year is 1399 and Constance of York, Lady Despenser, King Richard's cousin decides to stir the decidedly risky pot of courtly intrigue.
The real Constance was a fascinating woman and the author has done a great job of bringing her back to life in this novel. Her active involvement in the plots against Henry IV despite women's lack of political power or autonomy during this period automatically makes her a fascinating character. I love morally grey female characters so enjoyed getting an insight into her mind and character.
This book is exhaustively researched and bursting with historical detail. This unfortunately sometimes comes at expense of the plot and pace. A wealth of detail is not necessarily a bad thing, but this novel is marketed as a thrilling tale of treason, love and betrayal but I found the pace to be quite plodding at some points, particularly the beginning.
The story takes a while to get going and the complexity of the interconnected character relationships made it tough going at first (damn those 14th century nobles who repeatedly used a small number of names), I found myself constantly looking up Constance's family tree online to remind myself who everyone was. Constance's personality and inner thoughts really shine through but I don't feel the other characters really made much of an impression on me and they all felt a bit flat.
Overall, an expertly researched historical fiction novel that didn't quite do it for me.
This book is set during a really rather fascinating period of British History, the period which formed the bedrock of the later War of the Roses. The year is 1399 and Constance of York, Lady Despenser, King Richard's cousin decides to stir the decidedly risky pot of courtly intrigue.
The real Constance was a fascinating woman and the author has done a great job of bringing her back to life in this novel. Her active involvement in the plots against Henry IV despite women's lack of political power or autonomy during this period automatically makes her a fascinating character. I love morally grey female characters so enjoyed getting an insight into her mind and character.
This book is exhaustively researched and bursting with historical detail. This unfortunately sometimes comes at expense of the plot and pace. A wealth of detail is not necessarily a bad thing, but this novel is marketed as a thrilling tale of treason, love and betrayal but I found the pace to be quite plodding at some points, particularly the beginning.
The story takes a while to get going and the complexity of the interconnected character relationships made it tough going at first (damn those 14th century nobles who repeatedly used a small number of names), I found myself constantly looking up Constance's family tree online to remind myself who everyone was. Constance's personality and inner thoughts really shine through but I don't feel the other characters really made much of an impression on me and they all felt a bit flat.
Overall, an expertly researched historical fiction novel that didn't quite do it for me.
September 11, 2022
Tapestry of Treason by Anne O'Brien follows the life of Constance of York from the fall of Richard II to shortly after the birth of her youngest child, Eleanor.
This is only my second time reading a novel by Anne O'Brien (the first was Royal Game). Like the female characters in The Royal Game, Anne's version of Constance of York often laments the trials and tribulations of womanhood in the middle ages. Unlike the successful laments in Game, however, those constantly present in Tapestry of Treason often feel both far too progressive to be realistic for its time and place and also arrogant and ridiculous considering her title, fortune, and level of influence.
It is not abnormal for protagonists to be grating and hard to sympathize with, especially in depictions of royals, but Constance in this iteration takes it to another level. Constance is not at all sympathetic -- until possibly the last few pages, and even then it is a stretch. There is no rooting for her, and there is such a clear lack of depth that she reads more like a Disney villain than a real life historical figure.
I really struggled to make it through this one, as the middle 1/3 is rather slow and repetitive. Constance is both a brilliant manipulator and a complete fool; a cold and unfeeling ice princess and a lovesick teen. She is maddeningly inconsistent and far too foolish for someone supposedly so intrumental in large scale treasonous plots.
Speaking of treason, Constance is heavily involved and 100% on board for any plot. Why? I don't know - and neither does Constance. Because Richard was *family*? But so is Henry, Constance? Well that doesn't matter and no one knows why. Constance's brother is duplicitous and untrustworthy and that makes Constance BIG MAD! But he mentions a plot? Just tell her where to be! So much simply does not make sense.
There are many inconsistent, one dimensional characters in this retelling of the era of Henry IV, but the most frustrating is the protagonist/narrator herself. Tapestry of Treason unfortunately leaves much to be desired.
This is only my second time reading a novel by Anne O'Brien (the first was Royal Game). Like the female characters in The Royal Game, Anne's version of Constance of York often laments the trials and tribulations of womanhood in the middle ages. Unlike the successful laments in Game, however, those constantly present in Tapestry of Treason often feel both far too progressive to be realistic for its time and place and also arrogant and ridiculous considering her title, fortune, and level of influence.
It is not abnormal for protagonists to be grating and hard to sympathize with, especially in depictions of royals, but Constance in this iteration takes it to another level. Constance is not at all sympathetic -- until possibly the last few pages, and even then it is a stretch. There is no rooting for her, and there is such a clear lack of depth that she reads more like a Disney villain than a real life historical figure.
I really struggled to make it through this one, as the middle 1/3 is rather slow and repetitive. Constance is both a brilliant manipulator and a complete fool; a cold and unfeeling ice princess and a lovesick teen. She is maddeningly inconsistent and far too foolish for someone supposedly so intrumental in large scale treasonous plots.
Speaking of treason, Constance is heavily involved and 100% on board for any plot. Why? I don't know - and neither does Constance. Because Richard was *family*? But so is Henry, Constance? Well that doesn't matter and no one knows why. Constance's brother is duplicitous and untrustworthy and that makes Constance BIG MAD! But he mentions a plot? Just tell her where to be! So much simply does not make sense.
There are many inconsistent, one dimensional characters in this retelling of the era of Henry IV, but the most frustrating is the protagonist/narrator herself. Tapestry of Treason unfortunately leaves much to be desired.
August 21, 2019
Rating: 0.5/5 stars.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.
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So to start off I did not enjoy this book that much. I was confused by which character was who, especially at the start of the book, it took me a while to figure it out too because so many felt very similar. I really like this time in history but it just didn't feel very exciting to me. Which I think is a shame because Constance was an interesting woman at a time when so much was happening. I just felt disappointed with the characterization of many of the characters, I think that the only time I really felt that Constance came alive for me was towards the end during the end of her life where there isn't much written about her historically.
It was an alright book that I probably would not have finished if I hadn't been sent an eArc. That is probably because I was not a fan of the writing style and it just overall felt stilted and like the story was rushing to one point to the next and simply giving information rather than telling a story.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.
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So to start off I did not enjoy this book that much. I was confused by which character was who, especially at the start of the book, it took me a while to figure it out too because so many felt very similar. I really like this time in history but it just didn't feel very exciting to me. Which I think is a shame because Constance was an interesting woman at a time when so much was happening. I just felt disappointed with the characterization of many of the characters, I think that the only time I really felt that Constance came alive for me was towards the end during the end of her life where there isn't much written about her historically.
It was an alright book that I probably would not have finished if I hadn't been sent an eArc. That is probably because I was not a fan of the writing style and it just overall felt stilted and like the story was rushing to one point to the next and simply giving information rather than telling a story.
May 26, 2020
Looking for a new historical fiction author, I was eager to start the large back-catalogue of books by Anne O'Brien, but I have to say I was very disappointed by the quality of the writing in Tapestry of Treason. Full marks for the plot (I think the times between the usurpation of Richard II and the start of the War of the Roses deserve more attention than they get), but I found the main character ironically melodramatic for someone who endlessly describes her lack of emotions. This book is more soap opera than historical fiction. I would love to see this book re-written with more emphasis on the beginnings of the the York dynasty and less repeated whinging about loveless marriages and inexplicable actions that don't match what the character has been monologuing about.
August 22, 2019
I wanted to like this as the central character sounded really interesting but I just couldn’t get on with the writing. There was too much of the main character explaining her thoughts and feelings to herself. Too much tell and not enough show. And a bit too much “oh I know the name of this obscure bit of clothing they would have worn so I’m going to mention it at every opportunity” for my liking.
September 6, 2020
I was so disappointed with this one. I really enjoy O’Brien’s novels, but this one was dull, it lacked the passion of the era. I didn’t really care all that much about the characters or invest in their relationships. Despite the drama and ever changing allegiances it plods along merely recounting them as if they were little more than a spat between family. I struggled to finish this book, sadly I would not recommend it.
May 7, 2022
This author writes really well, draws you into the story and makes you feel part of the history. She researches the history really well so apart from poetic licence the facts are correct.
August 31, 2019
Constance of York, Lady Dispenser, is many things. In 1399 even the best connected, wealthiest woman in the country has limits to her power. Her husband, a man of pride and ambition, owns her lands. Her father is a Royal duke, but not as influential as her elder brother Edward, whose survival instincts and huge ambitions may prove destructive to those around him. The timing of the novel is at one of the pivot points of history; the weak and vacillating Richard II is trying and failing to maintain his hold on the kingdom. Constance’s feelings for Richard mean that she is experiencing more sorrow and fear for him than she will admit, as he has revived her family’s power, and made her husband a great power in the land. As Henry seizes the throne, and establishes his rule, can she negotiate his revenge against her family, the plots and plans which may well threaten her safety, and discover true love for the first time? This is a novel where ambition, betrayal and revenge dominate a woman’s life, and she must make choices that could affect not only her survival, but the fate of an entire country. As always, this author proves her skill in combining the personal and public, the real woman against forces that could well destroy her and those she comes to love. O’Brien shows her mastery of the historical novel, as she uses extensive research to write the telling detail of clothes, food and jewelry that makes the settings seem so real, while maintaining an overview of the historical events which surround the characters. The characters are finely drawn, as Constance and her immediate family are brilliantly recreated in all their inconsistencies and emotions. This tenth novel from Anne O’Brien is a fittingly brilliant portrait of a woman torn by so many forces and her own feelings to create an enthralling and unexpectedly involving historical read, transformed by an unusual romance. I was very pleased to have the opportunity to read and review this novel.
The novel begins with Constance, her husband Thomas, her brothers Edward and Dickon all pressurising a nervous Friar to reveal the future through the use of dice. They want to know if King Richard’s campaign in Ireland will bring glory and further gain for the family they represent. This is not an idle speculation as the enormous fortunes which Constance and her family represent are intertwined with this annointed king. Thomas’ family has a troubled history of forfeiture of their lands within recent memory; it is only because of Richard’s affection for him that he has recovered his status. As Henry comes to power nothing seems fixed, as previous favourites stand to lose everything. The questions of what, if anything they can do emerge. Exactly what will happen to Constance and those around her in a brutal time is the theme of this moving and fascinating novel, as she must make far reaching decisions for herself and those closest to her.
This is a great historical novel and thoroughly deserves to be a success. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, especially with a central female character.
The novel begins with Constance, her husband Thomas, her brothers Edward and Dickon all pressurising a nervous Friar to reveal the future through the use of dice. They want to know if King Richard’s campaign in Ireland will bring glory and further gain for the family they represent. This is not an idle speculation as the enormous fortunes which Constance and her family represent are intertwined with this annointed king. Thomas’ family has a troubled history of forfeiture of their lands within recent memory; it is only because of Richard’s affection for him that he has recovered his status. As Henry comes to power nothing seems fixed, as previous favourites stand to lose everything. The questions of what, if anything they can do emerge. Exactly what will happen to Constance and those around her in a brutal time is the theme of this moving and fascinating novel, as she must make far reaching decisions for herself and those closest to her.
This is a great historical novel and thoroughly deserves to be a success. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, especially with a central female character.
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