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beckymlgud's review
adventurous
emotional
informative
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Really enjoyed this book. I didn't really know anything about Cecily Neville and only had a vague idea of the time period, this book taught me so much and kept me engaged throughout. I liked the focus on politics and women's role and found Cecily to be a complex and well-rounded character.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Violence, Child death, and Miscarriage
clea's review
dark
emotional
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
This novel contains everything a great historical fiction should have: fascinating characters, political intrigues, well-constructed tension and beautiful prose. With her immersive writing, Anne Garthwaite plunges you into the medieval times and manages to break down the very complicated events, so that you'll understand the intricacies that led to the War of the Roses (even if you do not know much about it). It is the best historical fiction I have read in a long time. Seeing the world through Cecily's eyes and seeing her side and understanding of the events taking place, you really get to understand how strong and intelligent she was. Garthwaite does a masterful job in telling Cecily's story and thus bringing light onto one of the most powerful women who shaped England's history.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death, Sexual violence, Sexual assault, Death, Pregnancy, and Rape
Moderate: War
Minor: Death of parent
gll27's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Miscarriage and Child death
jamieleepilk's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
informative
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Thank you so much to Penguin for sending me a Proof copy!
UK Release - 29.07.2021
'The word is a spark. They can start a fire with it, or smother it in their fingertips. She chooses to start a fire.'
Cecily Neville, Duchess of York was witness to some of the most defining moments in British History but is often overshadowed by the men in her life. The lives of her two sons Edward and Richard (who both become Kings of England) are well documented but Cecily is often overlooked in retellings and even modern adaptations. Annie puts Cecily front and centre with her own determination, will and strength. Cecily is a fierce protagonist that will have you turning the pages and absorbing her story.
I found once I picked this book up it was hard to put down, the writing is smooth and easy to follow considering all the different characters and politics involved. Brilliant Debut.
UK Release - 29.07.2021
'The word is a spark. They can start a fire with it, or smother it in their fingertips. She chooses to start a fire.'
Cecily Neville, Duchess of York was witness to some of the most defining moments in British History but is often overshadowed by the men in her life. The lives of her two sons Edward and Richard (who both become Kings of England) are well documented but Cecily is often overlooked in retellings and even modern adaptations. Annie puts Cecily front and centre with her own determination, will and strength. Cecily is a fierce protagonist that will have you turning the pages and absorbing her story.
I found once I picked this book up it was hard to put down, the writing is smooth and easy to follow considering all the different characters and politics involved. Brilliant Debut.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death and Miscarriage
Minor: Sexual content, Violence, and Infertility
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