The Dreams of Kings
The Cousins’ War, better known as the Wars of the Roses, has become infamous as a time of extreme civil upheaval. The Dreams of Kings tells a story of Richard, Duke of Gloucester, Margaret of Anjou and Kind Edward IV, their intrigues, loves and losses and the wars that tainted their lives. Beginning in 1455 and ending in 1472, before the civil war was drawn to a close with the crowning of the first Tudor monarch, the book follows the colourful lives of the key players alongside some fictional additions who bind the story together.
I wanted to read this book as an enthusiast of this period in history. I note that on the copyright page it states very clearly that this is a work of fiction and that the characters have been used fictitiously. This is important if you already know something of the historical individuals involved in the plot. The world of motive is murky, and one in which novelists move more easily than historians. Saunders has clearly researched the era in some depth as the dates and events referred to are pretty spot on. The style is easy to read and bears similarities to popular historical romance novels with the thoughts, feelings and motives of the characters clearly laid out.
I am torn about this publication though, as the story both annoyed and intrigued me in equal measure as I think a good editor could have sorted out the writing style a little – but it is an easy read, demands little of the reader, and might appeal to readers who enjoy this era.
