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The King's Confidante
First published 2009 · 526 pages
A tender, intimate portrait of a famous historical figure seen through the loving eyes of his daughter, culminating in a devastating clash of faith and politics.
What it feels like
This steady, character-driven historical novel invites readers into the quiet, progressive household of a famous Tudor statesman, offering an intimate perspective through the eyes of his devoted daughter. The mood is initially warm and domestic, steeped in the everyday affections of a father who champions his daughters' education. As the narrative progresses, the tone shifts from tender and reverent to increasingly tense, contrasting the simple morality of the family home with the high-stakes environment of the royal court. The prose remains accessible and grounded, guiding the reader through a profound emotional arc where unwavering faith and moral integrity inevitably collide with political duty. It is a perfect read for those who appreciate historical fiction that prioritizes family bonds and the quiet, devastating cost of standing by one's principles.
- Mood
- domestic
- looming
- devout
- tender
- Tone
- earnest
- reverent
- intimate
- moral
- Pace
- steady
- Themes
- father-daughter bonds · moral integrity · faith versus duty · domestic life in turbulent times · the cost of principles
- The writing
- Accessible and grounded, focusing on the intimate details of domestic life while clearly outlining complex historical and moral conflicts.
- The arc
- Moves from the warm intimacy of a progressive, loving family home into the chilling, high-stakes tension of political and religious persecution.
- Who it's for
- Readers who love character-driven historical fiction that centers on family bonds, moral dilemmas, and the quiet lives behind famous historical figures.
Content notes
- political persecution
- trial for treason
- religious conflict
About the book
An English lawyer and statesman, Sir Thomas More was a kind father who put as much emphasis on educating his daughters as on his son, declaring that women were just as intelligent as men. His favorite daughter, Meg, is the heroine of this novel in which we witness the everyday lives of people in Tudor England. Plaidy takes readers into a world far removed from the grandeur of the courts, into the home of a simple family and a caring father who only wants to do what is morally best--not just for his family, but for England.As secretary and personal adviser to King Henry VIII, More becomes increasingly influential in the government, welcoming foreign diplomats, drafting official documents, and serving as a liaison between the king and the Archbishop of York. His own household stands in startling contrast to the licentious Tudor court, but as lord chancellor he gains recognition and becomes indispensable to the king. More's love of faith surpasses his duty to the crown, and his refusal to accept King Henry VIII's claim to be supreme head of the Church of England ends his political career...and leads to his trial for treason.From the Trade Paperback edition.
Description from Open Library.
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