The Rose of York: Fall from Grace

Sandra Worth
End Table Books (2007)
ISBN 0975126490
Reviewed by AJ Cooper for Reader Views (4/07)

Richard III becomes King of England and the tales of pain and triumph that swirl around him. This book provides an intimate look into times past and what may have occurred based on what has been written in history and the authors imagination. Richard III has a grand idea that all men rich and poor should be treated fairly. All should be given the opportunity to prove their innocence. The wealthy nobles, of course, do not agree with this; many say nothing and support their king.

While a large number of wealthy plots to create dissention and eventually defeat the king. His wife Anne is a staunch believer in her husband and always provides sound advice on the course of action her husband should follow. She is sickly and becomes sick as he travels the country to view the lands that Richard III now rules. He wants to spread his ideas and hopes for the support of all on his mission. During the course of their travels, a plot is first formed to kill their son and then eventually give the rule of England to another. Ned, their son, is poisoned, but no one realizes it because of his poor health. Anne’s health declines further and she realizes she will not live to provide another heir to the crown so she searches for another to take her place. Anne decides upon Elizabeth of York, Richard’s niece. Turmoil abounds and there is nothing that can be done to avoid a battle for the crown. All must decide the side to take and who they will fight for.

I truly enjoyed this journey back in time and I loved the idea of being part of the personal conversations and decisions. It just felt that these really were the conversations that had taken place and that everything really did occur in the book. It saddened me when Richard met his end, the battle to the finish. I was also sad when Elizabeth of York married the new king, Henry of Tudor. I just wanted “The Rose of York: Fall from Grace” to go on and on. I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in history and of course intrigue.

Make comment on weblog
Read Interview with author