King Henry V - the great lion of England - is long dead.
In 1437, his pious and gentle son comes of age and takes the throne. Frail in both body and mind, King Henry VI is utterly dependent on his supporters to run his kingdom.
Richard, Duke of York, however, believes that without a strong king England will fall. His fears seem justified as English power comes under threat from France, and discontent and rebellion spread at home.
On the counsel of his advisers, Henry marries the young princess Margaret of Anjou in order to forge an alliance with France - but is it too late?
As the storm clouds gather, King Henry and his queen are besieged abroad and at home. Who can save the throne? Who will save the kingdom?
About the Author
Conn Iggulden (born 1971) is a British author who mainly writes historical fiction. He also co-authored The Dangerous Book for Boys.
Born in 1971 to an English father and Irish mother (whose grandfather was a seanchaí), he attended St Martins School in Northwood before moving on to Merchant Taylors' School. He studied English at the University of London, and went on to teach the subject for seven years, becoming head of the English department at Haydon School, where one of his students was Fearne Cotton. He eventually left teaching to write his first novel, The Gates of Rome. He is married, has four children and lives in Hertfordshire, England.
Industry Reviews
Pacey and juicy, and packed with action Sunday Times Energetic, competent stuff; Iggulden knows his material and his audience Independent A novel that seamlessly combines narrative, historical credence and great knowledge of the period Daily Express Iggulden is in a class of his own when it comes to epic, historical fiction Daily Mirror Superbly plotted and paced The Times Conn breathes new life into the darkest and most dramatic of times, with a flair for both the huge scale and human interest of it all Star Exceptionally well-written and gripping Stylist Compelling reading Woman & Home A benchmark for historical fiction, showcasing Conn Iggulden at his finest Parmenion Books blog Full of period detail, the narrative weaves a glittering thread through the complex, political chaos of the time. It's been said that Game of Thrones is the Wars of the Roses written as fantasy: this is the real thing, more glorious, more passionate, far, far more gritty -- Manda Scott, author and head of HWA