Genre: Historical fiction
Publisher: Endeavour Media
Pub date: 22 August 2019
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Description from Amazon
Inspired by true events: this is the Kingmaker’s story.
Sir Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick, is remembered in history as the ‘Kingmaker’. Sometimes he is portrayed as the skilled political manipulator behind the throne, shaping events for his own advantage. Others describe him as the ‘last of the barons’, ruling like an uncrowned king.
Warwick was one of the wealthiest nobles in England yet chose the perilous path of becoming a warrior knight, bravely protecting the north against invasion by the Scots, and was a key figure in what became known as ‘the Wars of the Roses’. As Captain of Calais, he turned privateer, daring to take on the might of the Spanish fleet and became Admiral of England. As the friend of kings, he was sworn enemy of Queen Margaret of Anjou, however in an astonishing change of heart, why did he risk everything to fight for her cause?
This is his story of medieval adventure, power and influence at the heart of one of the most dangerous times in the history of England.
In everything I’ve watched on TV about the War of the Roses I always disliked Warwick, I found him greedy and lusting for power. I wondered if this book would give the same impression…..
This story follows Richard Neville, from a young boy to one of the most powerful men in England. Warwick does what he can at the beginning purely to make his father proud, it later becomes about his family, the country and the way he’s been treated by those close to Edward IV who are eager to see Warwick fall from favour. Tony Riches has depicted Warwick as a caring man, who provides for all of those under his care and in his service.
This story made me see Warwick from another perspective and I thoroughly enjoyed that. It is very well written, I love the character of Tully brought in to represent those faithful to Warwick.
As with all of Tony Riches’ works he explains which parts are fictional and which are taken from history which I appreciate.
Although we are all aware of the outcome of the Battle of Barnet I found this to be an engaging read, I read it in two days, I just wanted to keep reading and I’m actually a bit sad now it’s over.
Lastly, I just want to comment on how beautiful the cover is! A beautiful crown resting with a sword close by, I love it.
Warwick: The Man Behind The War of the Roses is available on Kindle unlimited
For those interested in any other of Tony’s work please see my other posts for reviews.
Amy McElroy 