Sons of York
Janet Evershed (nee Wrangwysh) is young and newly widowed and introduced by her uncle to Edward, Earl of March. Despite her initial reluctance, she becomes his mistress, acknowledging that he has others and will, eventually, marry. Through determination she builds up a successful draper’s business and includes Edward’s brother, George, as one of her patrons. She also becomes known to their younger brother, Richard.
Through her eyes we see the political developments, hear of the historic battles and almost constant changes of monarchy from Henry VI through to Henry VII. The different characters of the three royal brothers are described by Janet as well as her own personal trials with her family, business and son, sired by Edward.
Prior to the death of Richard at Bosworth, Janet transfers the base of her business to Bruges – where she already has a house and a warehouse – and carries with her a secret that, if ever revealed, could change the history of England.
Originally written as a stand-alone novel, Sons of York is the second in a trilogy that began with The White Queen of Middleham, but covers many more years than that volume. Sadly, the author passed away some years ago, with her books being re-edited and reprinted by Mereo Books.
I do have to criticise underlining a word for emphasis rather than using italics, which I feel is more acceptable in appearance – there are no more than a dozen or so instances and could be easily rectified, as could an error of referring to two instances of Edward’s known mistress as ‘Elizabeth Shore’ rather than Jane.
Despite these blips, I can recommend this book as one of the best I have read in a long time.
