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Review: The Dark Rose, by Cynthia Harrod-Eagles


#2: Covers c. 1501-1549; the reign of Henry VIII

The Dark Rose, the second in the Morland Dynasty series, roughly covers the reign of Henry VIII, from 1501 to about 1549. Paul Morland is the head of the family now, and his niece Nannette goes to the court of Anne Boleyn and then Katherine Parr as lady-in-waiting. Meanwhile, at Morland Place, Paul faces a series of challenges, including a struggle between his son Amyas and his illegitimate son Adrian.

As usual, Cynthia Harrod-Eagles places a strong female character in the lead; this time, of course, it’s Nannette. But the author never makes her characters seem too modern, which is what I like in historical fiction. Since Nannette is at court, she is present to witness history being made, and as such we see all six of Henry VIII’s wives (though only two get speaking parts). Too, I was fascinated here with how the introduction of Protestantism affected the Morland family; it’ll be interesting to see how it plays out over time.

Also reviewed by: Medieval Bookworm
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Comments

Marg said…
I am hoping to get to this book soon! If I enjoy future books as much as I enjoyed the first one I will be definitely picking up the rest of the series - all 31 of them, or however many it is!
February 18, 2009 at 5:20 AM
Michele said…
Wow, I've absolutely got to get started with this series. It sounds like a great read!
February 18, 2009 at 10:29 AM
Cathy said…
Yes, #31 was just published in hardcover this past November. I love this series!
February 18, 2009 at 11:11 AM
Passages to the Past said…
Let the collection begin...I feel a new obsession with collecting this series coming on thanks to your review (which is one of many)! When my husband divorces me, I'm blaming you! Haha! JK!
February 18, 2009 at 8:57 PM
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