The thrilling story of the French princess who became an English queen, from the best-selling author of The Agincourt Bride. Perfect for fans of The White Queen.
Even the greatest of queens have rules – to break them would cost her dearly…
King Henry V’s new French Queen, Catherine, dazzles the crowds in England but life at court is full of intrigue and her loyal companion, Mette, suspects that the beautiful Eleanor Cobham, protégée of the Duke of Gloucester, is spying for him.
Catherine believes herself invincible as she gives birth to an heir, then tragically King Henry is struck down by fever. Unable to outwit those who seek to remove the new king from her care, Catherine retires from court, comforted by the King’s Harper, Owen Tudor.
At the secluded manor of Hadham a smouldering ember bursts into flame and Catherine and Owen Tudor become lovers. But their love cannot remain a secret forever, and when a grab for power is made by Gloucester, Catherine – and those dearest to her – face mortal danger…
Reviews
Praise for Joanna Hickson
‘Thoroughly engrossing’ The Lady
A gripping and emotional story’ Woman
‘Joanna Hickson’s writing is superb’ Shropshire Post
‘An enthralling blend of fact and fiction, drama and danger, passion and politics’ Lancashire Evening Post
About the author
Joanna Hickson spent twenty five years presenting and producing News and Arts programmes for the BBC. Her first published book was a children’s historical novel Rebellion at Orford Castle but more recently she has turned to adult fiction, concentrating on bringing fifteenth century English history and some of its fascinating principal characters to life.
She is married with a large family and gets inspiration from her Wiltshire farmhouse home, which dates back to her chosen period.
