Jane and her mother flee to England when the French king dies unexpectedly. The pair are welcomed to the court of King Henry VII and he even assigns Jane to his children’s household, starting friendships that last for decades…
The Pleasure Palace is the first book in the Secrets of the Tudor Court series by Kate Emerson. I believe I have read this book before but decided to listen to the audiobook as the whole series is available via the library.
The Tudor court is brought vividly to life through the eyes of an almost unknown character, Jane Popyncourt. Originally from France, she joins the royal household. I thought the characters and setting descriptions were effective in sending me back in time. The danger and machinations of the Tudor court added tension to the plot.
The style of writing is easy to read. In the audio version I found the voices a little offputting at times. The narrator seemed to do a childish voice at some points.
Jane Popincourt was a real figure at the court of Henry VII and his son Henry VIII but I don’t remember reading about her in my many non fiction books. This meant the book had a freshness of perpective but I also doubted its historical accuracy.
The twist about Jane’s parents’ past seemed obvious from the start, or maybe I did vaguely remember from my previous reading. The ending is a little abrupt and I would have like to know what happens to Jane next (I wonder if we will meet her in later books in the series). I also wish the author had included an historical note to further my knowledge.
The Pleasure Palace is an enjoyable novel and will please Tudor history fans like me!
Book blurb:
Beautiful. Seductive. Innocent. Jane Popyncourt was brought to the court as a child to be ward of the king and a companion to his daughters — the princesses Margaret and Mary.
With no money of her own, Jane could not hope for a powerful marriage, or perhaps even marriage at all. But as she grows into a lovely young woman, she still receives flattering attention from the virile young men flocking to serve the handsome new king, Henry VIII, who has recently married Catherine of Aragon.
Then a dashing French prisoner of war, cousin to the king of France, is brought to London, and Jane finds she cannot help giving some of her heart — and more — to a man she can never marry. But the Tudor court is filled with dangers as well as seductions, and there are mysteries surrounding Jane’s birth that have made her deadly enemies.
Can she cultivate her beauty and her amorous wiles to guide her along a perilous path and bring her at last to happiness? Basing her gripping tale on the life of the real Jane Popyncourt, gifted author Kate Emerson brings the Tudor monarchs, their family, and their courtiers to brilliant life in this vibrant new novel.
1671, Rose Gwyn faces execution for her part in a plot to steal the Crown Jewels. Desperate to save her unborn child, she writes to her infamous sister Nell. Present day, Jess’ life is in tatters as her husband is imprisoned and she leaves her job. She turns to her celebrity sister for a home and job…
The Other Gwyn Girl is a dual timeline novel set in the 1670s and present day.
Poor Rose has not had the easiest start in life and now she is trapped in an unhappy marriage. Her husband coerces her into joining a madcap scheme to steal the Crown Jewels but she is caught. Her only hope of surviving is her sister Nell, the mistress of King Charles II, but Nell has her own fears and needs Rose’s help in return. I loved this timeline and how the life in the seventeenth century was depicted. The characters felt authentic and the danger seemed to really loom over them.
The juxtaposition of the two pairs of sisters is interesting to watch unfold. In the present day Jess’ husband has gone to prison and she feels tainted and guilty by association. Her sister is a celebrity and needs a housesitter for an old manor house she is restoring. Jess agrees to help out as a means of escape and uses her time to explore the house and its contents which establishes the link with the Gwyns.
I was a little less interested in the present day timeline. Jess seems more of a passive character than her sister or the Gwyns. Rose’s perspective had danger and passion and her vivacity brought her character to life. There are elements of supernatural and mystery which develop in the present day as Jess explores the setting.
The Other Gwyn Girl is a fascinating interpretation of life in the seventeenth century and I loved Rose’s character.
The Other Gwyn Girl
1671 – London
The Civil War is over and Charles II, the ‘Merry Monarch’, is revelling in the throne of his murdered father and all the privileges and power that comes with it. Sharing the spoils is his favourite companion, the celebrated beauty, actress Nell Gwyn. Beloved of the English people, Nell has come a long way from selling oranges and a childhood in a brothel, but as her fortunes have turned, her sister Rose has taken a different path. Marriage to a feckless highwayman has left Rose in the grim Marshalsea prison and now she needs her sister’s mercy to help get her out. But Nell needs Rose too. A plot to steal the Crown Jewels has gone tragically wrong, and Nell’s future with her protector King is at risk. If Rose can’t solve the riddle of the jewels both Gwyn sisters will head straight to the Tower.
Present Day
Librarian and history enthusiast Jess Yates has hit rock bottom. With her ex behind bars for fraud, Jess needs to lay low – easier said than done with a celebrity sister. But Tavy has her uses. Her latest TV project involves renovating Fortune Hall, and she needs a house sitter while she’s jetting around the world. The opportunity is too good to miss, especially when Jess discovers that Fortune Hall has links to the infamous Nell Gwyn.
Slowly the house begins to reveal its mysteries, and secrets that have laid buried for centuries can no longer be ignored. Jess hears echoes from a tragic past and as she struggles to understand her sister, Jess feels ever closer to Rose Gwyn, the sister forgotten by history but who had the fate of her family in her hands.
Bestselling author Nicola Cornick is back with a captivating, gripping, unforgettable tale of treachery and treason, love and loyalty, perfect for fans of Barbara Erskine, Elena Collins and Christina Courtenay.
Author Bio –
Nicola Cornick is a historian and author who works as a researcher and guide for the National Trust in one of the most beautiful 17th century houses in England. She writes dual time novels that illustrate her love of history, mystery and the supernatural, and focus on women from the footnotes of history. Her books have appeared in over twenty five languages, sold over half a million copies worldwide and been described as “perfect for Outlander fans.” Nicola also gives writing and history talks, works as a consultant for TV and radio, and is a trustee of the Wantage Literary Festival and the Friends of Lydiard Park.
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1980, a young woman is killed in a hit and run. 2023, her body is exhumed and left on her mother’s grave while another body is buried in her final resting place instead. 2024, two more bodies are found in the graveyard…
The Graveyard Killings is the 4th book in the Yorkshire Murders series but the first I have read. There are some references to what I assume are events in the earlier books but there are no spoilers.
There are three distinct timelines in this book. I felt desperately sorry for the unsolved cases in 1980 and 2023 and so was eager for the police team to suceed in the present day. It seems abhorrent for the desecration of graves to happen, but respect for the living is also missing as drugs infiltrate the area.
There is a surprising amount of emotion in the book. Dean’s horror, shock and guilt at the death of his daughter in the past was really vivid. Riddick’s passion to avenge a drug dealer’s cruelty and the other reactions of police officers felt authentic. The professional relationships between the detectives is fraught which adds a great tension and dynamic to their characters.
The Graveyard Killings is a tense detective thriller and police procedural.
The Graveyard Killings
A decades old case….
When the body of a young girl is found exhumed from her grave, DCI Emma Gardner knows there’s more to this grisly find than just misadventure. Penny Maiden was killed in a hit and run accident forty years ago, and her killer was never found…Could someone be trying to right an old wrong?
A DI on the rails…
Determined to bring a dangerous gang of drug dealers to justice, DI Paul Riddick is trying hard to play by the rules. After his previous reckless actions, he knows this is his last chance to stay in the job he loves. But when his private life takes an unexpected turn, Riddick begins to lose control again.
Emma needs Paul to help her with her case, especially when more bodies are found in the same graveyard. But hurt badly by Riddick once before, Emma’s not sure she can trust him again.
But as Paul’s behaviour begins to spiral even more, Emma worries she may have left it far too late to save her old friend Riddick from his own destruction…
Author Bio –
Wes Markin lives in Harrogate and is the bestselling author of the DCI Yorke crime novels set in Salisbury. He is also the author of the Jake Pettman series set in New England. You can find out more at https://www.facebook.com/WesMarkinAuthor
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1936, Kitty is invited to review a hotel before it opens to the general public. The luxury hotel is set on an island, no expense has been spared and the atmosphere is opulent. However, the owner is found dead in a locked room with a gun in his hand. A hand that could never have pulled the trigger…
Murder at the Island Hotel is the 15th book to feature Kitty and her husband Matt, a private investigator team in the 1930s.
Kitty goes back to her hotel roots to give feedback on a new hotel venture, The magnificent island hotel is the epitome of elegance aimed at an exclusive clientele. Sir Norman and his fiancee are the owners but he is found dead and Kitty is sure it is murder. But the room was locked and there are no obvious motives or suspects.
Kitty sets to works straight away while she waits for the police and her husband to arrive on the island. Her investigations produce new information about finances and relationships that could have caused murderous intent. But she isn’t quick enough to prevent a second death…
There is a great atmosphere created as she endures the stormy weather and the turmoil within the hotel. The mystery is well sustained despite the limited setting and range of suspects. There are historical details about gender and class attitudes which felt authentic and added depth to the plot and characters.
Murder at the Island Hotel is another enjoyable instalment in this cosy historical murder mystery series.
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Book: Murder at the Island Hotel
Author: Helena Dixon
Pub Day: March 4th 2024
Buy Link(s):
Audible:
On X: Narrated by: @KarenCassAudio
About the Book:
A gorgeous island off the English coast, a beautiful hotel perched on the cliffs, a group of glamourous friends… and a suspicious death? Kitty Underhay’s invitation didn’t mention murder!
Spring, 1936. As the boat draws into the harbour of Bird Island, Kitty is absolutely delighted to see the stunning hotel for the first time. She and her friend Alice have been asked to join the distinguished guests before the hotel officially opens its doors, but they have barely unpacked when the owner is found dead in his own study…
Sir Norman’s death looks like suicide. But Kitty isn’t convinced – she cannot find a note, and he is left-handed but was shot on the right side of his head. Kitty tries to reach the police, but a violent storm engulfs the island and the power goes out. Kitty and Alice need to move quickly before anyone else finds death on their dinner menu!
With several old friends amongst their suspects, Kitty decides the investigation should stay secret. But it’s not until Kitty uncovers Sir Norman’s financial difficulties that she’s on the killer’s trail. Can Kitty and Alice catch the culprit in time for tea, or will they become the next guests on the murderer’s list?
Fans of T.E. Kinsey, Agatha Christie or Lee Strauss will adore this warm and witty whodunnit. An utter delight to read!
Author Bio
Helena Dixon splits her time between the Black Country and Devon. Married to the same man for over thirty-five years she has three daughters, a cactus called Spike, and a crazy cockapoo. She is allergic to adhesives, apples, tinsel and housework. Helena was winner of The Romance Prize in 2007 and Love Story of the Year 2010 as Nell Dixon. She now writes historical 1930’s set cozy crime. Nell enjoys hearing from readers and you can read her news and contact her via her website at http://www.nelldixon.com visit her blog at http://www.nelldixonrw.blogspot.com.
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A sixteen year old announces in class that his mother has killed his father and police arrive at the family home to find Arnold Green dead and his wife missing…
Evil on the Island is the 12th book in the DI Liam O’Reilly series set on Guernsey. There are no spoilers about previous cases but Liam’s personal life and professional relationships have developed over the series.
Liam thinks his latest case is quite straight forward and the victim’s family are responsible for his murder. But this explanation is called into question when another murder is discovered and there surely must be a link…? I thought there were plenty of characters acting suspiciously and trusted no-one!
In his personal life, Liam is still recovering from his motorbike injury, his fiancee Victoria is coping with her cancer diagnosis, his cats are causing havoc with his neighbour and his daughter is making big decisions about her future. There is a lot going on as well as the murders!
The pace is relentlessly fast with twists, murders, and clues piling on top of each other. The chapters are short which are quick to read. Once again in this series, the plot is dialogue led which increases the pace even further. I was kept guessing until the end but I did feel that the conclusion was a little rushed even by this author’s standards!
Evil on the Island is an entertaining police procedural and crime thriller.
Evil on the Island (DI Liam O’Reilly mysteries Book 12)
‘I know about evil, because my mum is evil. She killed my dad. My mother murdered my father, and left him where she knew I would find him.’
A class discussion in a prestigious school on the peaceful island of Guernsey takes a sinister turn when the body of the father of one of the students is found, exactly where the boy said he would be.
The 16 year old has no further information to offer the Island Police, and his mother has disappeared off the face of the earth.
Detective Inspector Liam O’Reilly has no idea where to look. The boy’s father was stabbed multiple times, but there is nothing at the scene to suggest why this man was killed in such a horrific manner.
Then another man is found dead.
But when a third suffers the same fate soon afterwards, O’Reilly knows that he’s up against something darker than his mind could ever comprehend.
There’s something evil on the island, and O’Reilly has no idea how to stop it.
What readers are saying about EVIL ON THE ISLAND:
An ingenious plot and one where I couldn’t work out as to whom the perpetrator was until it was revealed. A thoroughly entertaining gripping read. Hurry up with the next one! – Misfits Farm
Love the characters, a big plus for me. Liam has an up and down relationship with his cats but it might be on an even keel at present and his daughter’s partner DC Andy Stone has flashes where Liam can tolerate him. So quite a bit of humour throughout. A most enjoyable read. – Maureen
Another brilliant read that I was unable to put down. Intrigue and suspense all the way through, absolutely brilliant. – Amazon Reviewer
Stewart Giles – Author Bio
After reading English at 3 Universities and graduating from none of them, I set off travelling around the world with my wife, Ann, finally settling in South Africa, where we still live.
In 2014 Ann dropped a rather large speaker on my head and I came up with the idea for a detective series. DS Jason Smith was born. Smith, the first in the series was finished a few months later.
3 years and 8 DS Smith books later, Joffe Books wondered if I would be interested in working with them. As a self-published author, I agreed. However, we decided on a new series – the DC Harriet Taylor: Cornwall series.
The Beekeeper was published and soon hit the number one spot in Australia. The second in the series, The Perfect Murder did just as well.
I continued to self-publish the Smith series and Unworthy hit the shelves in 2018 with amazing results. I therefore made the decision to self-publish The Backpacker which is book 3 in the Detective Harriet Taylor series which was published in July 2018.
After The Backpacker I had an idea for a totally new start to a series – a collaboration between the Smith and Harriet thrillers and The Enigma was born. It brought together the broody, enigmatic Jason Smith and the more level-headed Harriet Taylor.
The Miranda trilogy is something totally different. A psychological thriller trilogy. It is a real departure from anything else I’ve written before.
The Detective Jason Smith series continues to grow. I also have another series featuring an Irish detective who relocated to Guernsey, the Detective Liam O’Reilly series. There are also 3 stand alone novels.
Twitter: @stewartgiles
