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elvenavari's review against another edition
4.0
I loved this series little twist on history. The story was fun and well paced. The characters were intriguing and I'm still not over that death in the last book, my heart clenched painfully whenever it was mentioned in this one. I have a feeling that this series is over but if Gortner were to write another book, I would read it in a heartbeat.
drey72's review against another edition
4.0
It is 1558, and Elizabeth I has just gained the throne after her sister Queen Mary’s death. She’s under pressure from everyone (and their uncle!) on what to do, who to marry, who to trust, and so on and so forth. There aren’t many people she can trust, but she turns to Brendan Prescott, one of her spies, to find her missing favored lady-in-waiting Lady Parry.
Brendan’s sojourn to the middle of nowhere turns up secrets that people would – and do – kill to protect. But his investigation gets a little stuck when his past returns to haunt him, and the distraction could cost lives.
Gortner spins a fascinating tale based on history and imagination in The Tudor Vendetta. The politics is familiar to those who love the Tudor era. The mystery at the heart of The Tudor Vendetta is almost a backdrop to the oh-so-real characters. And the story itself is well-formed and well-told. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this, and so would any fan of the era.
drey’s rating: Excellent!
This review was originally posted on drey's library
Brendan’s sojourn to the middle of nowhere turns up secrets that people would – and do – kill to protect. But his investigation gets a little stuck when his past returns to haunt him, and the distraction could cost lives.
Gortner spins a fascinating tale based on history and imagination in The Tudor Vendetta. The politics is familiar to those who love the Tudor era. The mystery at the heart of The Tudor Vendetta is almost a backdrop to the oh-so-real characters. And the story itself is well-formed and well-told. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this, and so would any fan of the era.
drey’s rating: Excellent!
This review was originally posted on drey's library
alexwritesbooks's review against another edition
adventurous
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
I liked it. It did make me see Robert Dudley in a different light.
colleenlovestoread's review against another edition
5.0
See the full review at http://historicaltapestry.blogspot.com.
There is just something about a thrilling, twisting Tudor suspense that lures me in every time and very few authors I have found do it quite as well as C.W. Gortner! While this final book in his Elizabeth I Spymaster Trilogy can easily be read on its own any reader who tries to do so will be doing themselves a disservice. This is a series to read from start to finish so you can fully appreciate and absorb Brendan Prescott's backstory and the revelations, actions and loses that lead him to what happens in The Tudor Vendetta. It wasn't until I immersed myself in this book that I remembered all that had come before and how much I had missed his adventures as well as the characters lost already.
From page one the intrigues and constant subterfuge are already in full swing and there isn't a slow moment until you turn the final page. One of the things I love most about this series is the chance to get a behind-the-scenes view of how Tudor spies were trained and worked and exactly what dangers and precautions they had to learn to handle if they were to stay alive in that ever shifting game of power. Even as the masters in the spy game - Walsingham and Cecil - work to protect Brendan and train him to best serve them the reader is never quite sure whether they can be trusted and exactly what the end game they are going for will be. And this skepticism doesn't end with these men....everyone seems suspect and I couldn't help myself from feeling that delicious sense of suspicion as I fought to figure out who was really foe and kept turning the pages so I could get to the next twist in the road. I am happy to say that, while I had a little inkling of some of what would end up being revealed, many of the secrets came as a complete surprise and I was left gasping along with Brendan when it all became perfectly clear.
Something else I love about this series is the fact that, while the dangerous world of the court and all that Elizabeth had to overcome and survive to become Queen are a big part, the real meat of the story is Brendan's struggles reconciling the way he was raised against how he should have been treated given his discovery of who he really is and his continual struggle between his duties to Elizabeth and his love for Kate Stafford, one of her ladies-in-waiting. You can really feel his internal battles and his desolation at trying to do the right thing and make the right choices and often, in his opinion, coming up wanting. He is a strong, caring and loyal character and I really will miss him now that his story is over.
With all the above being said the absolute delight of The Tudor Vendetta is the mystery surrounding Lady Parry's disappearance and what those at Vaughan Hall (the crumbling sea-side manor mentioned in the synopsis) are hiding. This aspect of the story had a very old fashioned murder mystery feel to it and I so enjoyed the immersion in this dilapidated manor and the sinister feeling overhanging all that happened there as Brendan fought to figure out exactly what was going on before more people disappeared or worse. The reader is kept guessing at all the mysteries and, for me, this really elevated and changed up what could have otherwise been a more typical Tudor historical.
Without giving too much away the ending was just perfect to me and I could not help tearing up a little as I turned that final page. While I am very sad to see the series end it wraps up wonderfully and the reader is left fully satisfied with the journey they have been on with Brendan and the other characters. Anyone who loves a story with strong characters and lots of twists and turns will eat this up. Anyone who also loves a novel set in Tudor times needs to pick these books up now!
There is just something about a thrilling, twisting Tudor suspense that lures me in every time and very few authors I have found do it quite as well as C.W. Gortner! While this final book in his Elizabeth I Spymaster Trilogy can easily be read on its own any reader who tries to do so will be doing themselves a disservice. This is a series to read from start to finish so you can fully appreciate and absorb Brendan Prescott's backstory and the revelations, actions and loses that lead him to what happens in The Tudor Vendetta. It wasn't until I immersed myself in this book that I remembered all that had come before and how much I had missed his adventures as well as the characters lost already.
From page one the intrigues and constant subterfuge are already in full swing and there isn't a slow moment until you turn the final page. One of the things I love most about this series is the chance to get a behind-the-scenes view of how Tudor spies were trained and worked and exactly what dangers and precautions they had to learn to handle if they were to stay alive in that ever shifting game of power. Even as the masters in the spy game - Walsingham and Cecil - work to protect Brendan and train him to best serve them the reader is never quite sure whether they can be trusted and exactly what the end game they are going for will be. And this skepticism doesn't end with these men....everyone seems suspect and I couldn't help myself from feeling that delicious sense of suspicion as I fought to figure out who was really foe and kept turning the pages so I could get to the next twist in the road. I am happy to say that, while I had a little inkling of some of what would end up being revealed, many of the secrets came as a complete surprise and I was left gasping along with Brendan when it all became perfectly clear.
Something else I love about this series is the fact that, while the dangerous world of the court and all that Elizabeth had to overcome and survive to become Queen are a big part, the real meat of the story is Brendan's struggles reconciling the way he was raised against how he should have been treated given his discovery of who he really is and his continual struggle between his duties to Elizabeth and his love for Kate Stafford, one of her ladies-in-waiting. You can really feel his internal battles and his desolation at trying to do the right thing and make the right choices and often, in his opinion, coming up wanting. He is a strong, caring and loyal character and I really will miss him now that his story is over.
With all the above being said the absolute delight of The Tudor Vendetta is the mystery surrounding Lady Parry's disappearance and what those at Vaughan Hall (the crumbling sea-side manor mentioned in the synopsis) are hiding. This aspect of the story had a very old fashioned murder mystery feel to it and I so enjoyed the immersion in this dilapidated manor and the sinister feeling overhanging all that happened there as Brendan fought to figure out exactly what was going on before more people disappeared or worse. The reader is kept guessing at all the mysteries and, for me, this really elevated and changed up what could have otherwise been a more typical Tudor historical.
Without giving too much away the ending was just perfect to me and I could not help tearing up a little as I turned that final page. While I am very sad to see the series end it wraps up wonderfully and the reader is left fully satisfied with the journey they have been on with Brendan and the other characters. Anyone who loves a story with strong characters and lots of twists and turns will eat this up. Anyone who also loves a novel set in Tudor times needs to pick these books up now!
truebookaddict's review against another edition
5.0
In the final book of the Spymaster Chronicles trilogy, Elizabeth I has finally ascended to the throne. However, Brendan Prescott's job of protecting her is no less crucial at this stage in the game. As William Cecil states, "She's less safe now than she ever was."
Gortner has a definite skill of bringing the reader right into the story. I felt like I was part of it, like I was seeing the action through Brendan's eyes. And I must touch on Robert Dudley in the context of this series. Never have I read him portrayed as such an utter miscreant. Oddly though, it fits. Perhaps it's because the reader can't help but adore Brendan and so, any enemy of his...well, you get the idea.
The great thing about the Spymaster Chronicles is we get the perfect combination of thoroughly researched historical fiction and intriguing historical mystery. The treacherous times of Tudor/Elizabethan England are brought to the page palpably. The effect for the reader is exciting, edge-of-the-seat reading.
I have said this before and I'll say it again. Gortner should be one of your go-to authors for historical fiction. If you have not read his books, you really must...and soon. I recommend you start where I did, with his incomparable novel about Juana the Mad, The Last Queen. And then, don't stop there.
Gortner has a definite skill of bringing the reader right into the story. I felt like I was part of it, like I was seeing the action through Brendan's eyes. And I must touch on Robert Dudley in the context of this series. Never have I read him portrayed as such an utter miscreant. Oddly though, it fits. Perhaps it's because the reader can't help but adore Brendan and so, any enemy of his...well, you get the idea.
The great thing about the Spymaster Chronicles is we get the perfect combination of thoroughly researched historical fiction and intriguing historical mystery. The treacherous times of Tudor/Elizabethan England are brought to the page palpably. The effect for the reader is exciting, edge-of-the-seat reading.
I have said this before and I'll say it again. Gortner should be one of your go-to authors for historical fiction. If you have not read his books, you really must...and soon. I recommend you start where I did, with his incomparable novel about Juana the Mad, The Last Queen. And then, don't stop there.
morgandhu's review
4.0
The Tudor Vendetta is the third and final (one assumes) volume in C. W. Gortner's Spymaster series, featuring Brendan Prescott, secretly the illegitimate son of Henry VIII's younger sister Margaret.
In previous volumes, Prescott has been in the service of William Cecil, working undercover to preserve the Tudor line of succession - first Mary, then Elizabeth. In The Tudor Vendetta, Prescott, forced to flee England for his own safety following his role in taking down the Courteney Plot, returns - in the company of his mentor Francis Walsingham - to take up his role as protector of Elizabeth, now queen of England. Though Mary, her sister, is dead, Elizabeth faces many challenges and dangers, not the least of which is the continued animosity of Catholics both at home and abroad.
It is Cecil's plan to keep Prescott close to Elizabeth, both as an intelligencer and protector, and to keep Elizabeth from going too far in her relationship with Robert Dudley, risking her crown and her life through indiscretion. Elizabeth, however, has other plans for Prescott.
An assassination attempt gives Prescott reason to suspect that a Spanish agent he believed to be dead is still alive and plotting against the new Queen, but Elizabeth fears that an even greater danger is marshalling against her, and sends Prescott to investigate.
An enjoyable tale, drawing on what most historians consider to be no more than gossip arising from the circumstances of Elizabeth's early relationship with her step-father Thomas Seymour (who married Henry VIII's widow Katherine Parr) - but again, there's just enough room in the gaps of history to make the plot a plausible one.
His mission accomplished, Prescott is finally free to settle down to a quiet life in the country with his lady love Kate - but I can't help but hope the Elizabeth will need him again.
In previous volumes, Prescott has been in the service of William Cecil, working undercover to preserve the Tudor line of succession - first Mary, then Elizabeth. In The Tudor Vendetta, Prescott, forced to flee England for his own safety following his role in taking down the Courteney Plot, returns - in the company of his mentor Francis Walsingham - to take up his role as protector of Elizabeth, now queen of England. Though Mary, her sister, is dead, Elizabeth faces many challenges and dangers, not the least of which is the continued animosity of Catholics both at home and abroad.
It is Cecil's plan to keep Prescott close to Elizabeth, both as an intelligencer and protector, and to keep Elizabeth from going too far in her relationship with Robert Dudley, risking her crown and her life through indiscretion. Elizabeth, however, has other plans for Prescott.
An assassination attempt gives Prescott reason to suspect that a Spanish agent he believed to be dead is still alive and plotting against the new Queen, but Elizabeth fears that an even greater danger is marshalling against her, and sends Prescott to investigate.
An enjoyable tale, drawing on what most historians consider to be no more than gossip arising from the circumstances of Elizabeth's early relationship with her step-father Thomas Seymour (who married Henry VIII's widow Katherine Parr) - but again, there's just enough room in the gaps of history to make the plot a plausible one.
His mission accomplished, Prescott is finally free to settle down to a quiet life in the country with his lady love Kate - but I can't help but hope the Elizabeth will need him again.
readingqueen's review
3.0
I have received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
I usually like anything related to the Tudors, no matter if the perspective is of a particular Tudor or another royal, lady in waiting, or anyone in or close to the court. I enjoyed this book, but didn't honestly love it.
I usually like anything related to the Tudors, no matter if the perspective is of a particular Tudor or another royal, lady in waiting, or anyone in or close to the court. I enjoyed this book, but didn't honestly love it.
abookishaffair's review
5.0
"The Tudor Vendetta" is a historical mystery with a lot of panache. This is the third book in C.W. Gortner's fantastic series, "The Spymaster Chronicles" and while this book is very much a standalone book, you should really go back and read the first two books in this series if you're looking for some exciting historical mysteries with memorable characters and excellent historical detail! This book is definitely not your typical Tudor fare!
Again, Brendan, Elizabeth I's spy and the main character from the first two books is at the center of this book. He is summoned from exile and has a brand new mystery to solve. This time, the stakes are even higher and the secret at the center of the book could rock Elizabeth I's new reign. This book had me engaged from the very beginning. Part of the reason is that I really, really like Brendan's character. This is one sharp guy and I loved following him as he follows clue after clue as he gets closer and closer to danger. The supporting characters in this book are wonderful as well and definitely well drawn.
I don't read a lot of historical mystery usually but books like this one make me want to read a lot more though. The way that the author gives you just the smallest clue to get you into guessing what comes next and then he suddenly flips on you and has your mind going in the completely opposite direction. I love a good surprise in books and this one has plenty of those. I hate being able to guess what's going to happen in mysteries but there was none of that with this book. I never knew where the book was going to take me next. I so did not see the absolutely wonderfully fascinating climax that happens in the book (I don't want to ruin anything so you're just going to have to read it yourself). I love a good surprise!
Overall, I was thrilled with this book. I really enjoyed it and am hoping for more of Brendan's adventures in the future. This book is definitely a thrill!
Again, Brendan, Elizabeth I's spy and the main character from the first two books is at the center of this book. He is summoned from exile and has a brand new mystery to solve. This time, the stakes are even higher and the secret at the center of the book could rock Elizabeth I's new reign. This book had me engaged from the very beginning. Part of the reason is that I really, really like Brendan's character. This is one sharp guy and I loved following him as he follows clue after clue as he gets closer and closer to danger. The supporting characters in this book are wonderful as well and definitely well drawn.
I don't read a lot of historical mystery usually but books like this one make me want to read a lot more though. The way that the author gives you just the smallest clue to get you into guessing what comes next and then he suddenly flips on you and has your mind going in the completely opposite direction. I love a good surprise in books and this one has plenty of those. I hate being able to guess what's going to happen in mysteries but there was none of that with this book. I never knew where the book was going to take me next. I so did not see the absolutely wonderfully fascinating climax that happens in the book (I don't want to ruin anything so you're just going to have to read it yourself). I love a good surprise!
Overall, I was thrilled with this book. I really enjoyed it and am hoping for more of Brendan's adventures in the future. This book is definitely a thrill!
katefinityreads's review
3.0
I wish I could say that I loved The Tudor Vendetta as much as I've loved Gortner's other work. I was fortunate enough to win this book as part of a First Reads giveaway but I hate to say that it didn't capture me as well as /The Last Queen/ and /The Queen's Vow/ did.
I think the story may fall flat for me because I didn't read the first two books in this series. The suspense and emotional connections just weren't clicking for me when certain characters made an appearance--however, I've read books out of order before and often enjoy going back to the first installment as a kind of prologue... but the stoic nature of Brendan, our protagonist, doesn't compel me to return to the beginning.
The Tudor Vendetta is written just as beautifully as Gortner's other books, but the plot is a little stale. Without revealing spoilers, I'll vaguely say that a secretive plot involving Elizabeth is the driving force behind Brendan's actions, yet it's a plot that has been used many times by Tudor novelists. Aside from this, the book gets going but never really takes off. Brendan sets off on his mission, but it's similar to a chase film that runs about an hour too long. It's hard to feel the urgency that should be there, and by the end I was left feeling like more should have happened during the time I invested reading.
This was the first book I've read by Gortner that didn't have a female protagonist and was not set in Spain, so I'm curious if that's where his strengths lie, or if this was just a quirky miss for me. I do love his other work, so I suppose I would say that if you're interested in this book it's best to start with the first one and if Brendan catches your fancy there, The Tudor Vendetta will tie up all the loose ends and questions I'm sure the other two books bring to the forefront.
I think the story may fall flat for me because I didn't read the first two books in this series. The suspense and emotional connections just weren't clicking for me when certain characters made an appearance--however, I've read books out of order before and often enjoy going back to the first installment as a kind of prologue... but the stoic nature of Brendan, our protagonist, doesn't compel me to return to the beginning.
The Tudor Vendetta is written just as beautifully as Gortner's other books, but the plot is a little stale. Without revealing spoilers, I'll vaguely say that a secretive plot involving Elizabeth is the driving force behind Brendan's actions, yet it's a plot that has been used many times by Tudor novelists. Aside from this, the book gets going but never really takes off. Brendan sets off on his mission, but it's similar to a chase film that runs about an hour too long. It's hard to feel the urgency that should be there, and by the end I was left feeling like more should have happened during the time I invested reading.
This was the first book I've read by Gortner that didn't have a female protagonist and was not set in Spain, so I'm curious if that's where his strengths lie, or if this was just a quirky miss for me. I do love his other work, so I suppose I would say that if you're interested in this book it's best to start with the first one and if Brendan catches your fancy there, The Tudor Vendetta will tie up all the loose ends and questions I'm sure the other two books bring to the forefront.
lnatal's review
3.0
I received this book as a digital ARC from the publisher through Net Galley in return for an honest review.
This is the third book of the series “The Spymaster Chronicles”.
Even if I have only read the first book of this series, I was able to follow the plot of the present book.
Brendan Prescott, the queen’s man who was trained by Francis Walsingham, Elizabeth’s spymaster and his beloved Kate, are in charge to find the hiding-place of Lady Parry, her favored lady in waiting.
Seventeenth-century engraving of Queen Elizabeth with William Cecil (left) and Francis Walsingham (right)
Blanche Parry was Elizabeth’s servant since her birth and apparently attended her in the Tower of London before her crowning.
The Tomb of Blanche Parry, Bacton Church. Copyright © Terry Richardson
Even if the Queen suffers an attempt of poisoning, Prescott and Katie travel to Vaughn Hall, a sea-side manor in order to accomplish their mission.
The book is fast-paced and the author always performs an extensive and careful historical research work which keeps the reader’s interest in the narrative.
A true masterpiece for all historical mystery fans.
4* The Secret Lion
5* The Last Queen
5* The Confessions of Catherine de Medici
3* The Tudor Vendetta
TR The Queen’s Vow
TR Mademoiselle Chanel