“There is one man who was much closer to my son than any other.”Logan is wary of the assignment to go to Scotland to capture Sir David Moray, who had been the prince’s trusted companion and guardian for years, but has no choice but to serve the king. He is told to bring Laurence Westaway, a scrivener and his neighbor, with him to officially record every moment of the mission. Westaway’s daughter Phoebe insists in joining them as her father is in poor health but she has never been a fan of Logan’s, preferring the court manners of Valentine Fox. There is enmity between Logan and Fox, although neither has told Phoebe why.This book is a wonderful blend of history, romance, and suspense. The reader is not fooled by the arrogant Valentine but it’s understandable that Phoebe, inexperienced in court intrigue, would be, although her father sees Logan’s worth (she matures over the course of the story). The three set out for Scotland, a complicated road trip that will reveal the strength of each character, as well as those added to their traveling party: a boy named Hector, and Sir David himself. There is also a mystery – what really happened to Prince Henry; who, if anyone, is to blame; whether Sir David is being scapegoated; and will the travelers avoid pursuit by various enemies? I have read more extensively about the previous century and later Stuart rulers so some of the history was new to me. Kearsley’s research and theory are persuasive and enjoyable, with detailed author’s note. It has intense moments but, in some ways, is a lighter read than previous books. If you have not previously had the pleasure of reading a book by this author, you could start with The King’s Messenger, The Winter Sea, or The Rose Garden. The British edition of this book is beautiful, with a stunning cover, as you can see, and the end papers map Logan and Phoebe’s journey.
I knew what name he’d say afore he spoke it. Everyone had seen that one man sitting as the lone attendant in the prince’s funeral chariot beside the black-draped effigy, and looking as though it were his own son who had been lost.
“Sir David Moray,” said the king, “will hold the answers we do need, if any man has knowledge of the truth.”
This is my fourth review of the year for the Historical Fiction Reading Challenge. Thanks to my sister Clare for bringing it back from London as it has not yet been published in the US. Although there are hundreds of unread books in this house, every book by Kearsley is a must own.
Title: The King’s Messenger
Author: Susanna Kearsley
Publication: Simon & Schuster UK, hardcover, 2024
Genre: Historical Fiction
Source: Personal copy
Other Reviews from Pining for the West and She Reads Novels.
3 comments:
I'm glad you enjoyed this one. I think it's one of my favourites by Kearsley so far, although I haven't read all of her books yet. I read an ebook copy from NetGalley but I'm tempted to buy the physical edition as it does look beautiful!
Wow great picture with the author, and I like that you drove there! I know the fans of this author are legion. But I lag behind .... so I'm glad you gave some titles of hers for newbies. She is a Canadian right? So what am I waiting for.
I would LOVE to meet Susanna Kearsley! She is one of my absolute favourite authors! Now, I must find time to read this book!
Thank you for sharing this review with the Historical Fiction Reading Challenge.
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