Wars of the Roses: Stormbird

Conn Iggulden

Jul 2014 · Wars of the Roses Book 1 · Sold by Penguin

About this ebook

“Capturing the violence and romance of medieval life, Iggulden makes real those grand characters who live in the collective memory. A page-turner sure to have readers eager for the next in the series." —Kirkus

The first book in #1 New York Times-bestselling author Conn Iggulden’s brilliant new historical series about two families who plunged England into a devastating, decades-long civil war.

In 1437, the Lancaster king Henry VI ascends the throne of England after years of semi-peaceful regency. Named “The Lamb,” Henry is famed more for his gentle and pious nature than his father’s famous battlefield exploits; already, his dependence on his closest men has stirred whispers of weakness at court.
           
A secret truce negotiated with France to trade British territories for a royal bride—Margaret of Anjou—sparks revolts across English territory. The rival royal line, the House of York, sees the chaos brought on by Henry’s weakness and with it not only opportunity in the monarch, but also their patriotic duty in ousting an ineffectual king. As storm clouds gather over England, King Henry and his supporters find themselves besieged abroad and at home. Who or what can save the kingdom before it is too late?

Ratings and reviews

Invest in this book! The time spent voyaging through history and learning to understand and actually care for these characters is worth much more than the money spent. You will not regret it. This first installment sets up the wars to come in the following books. Do not underestimate this story and Iggulden's capability of drawing you In. He has successfully revitalized a story that still holds so much resonance. A retelling for a generation, I hope these books are not overlooked! I'd love to see these books converted to a mini series.

Really enjoyed this take on the story; well written and I found myself so interested that I looked up back stories on characters and battles on Wikipedia along the way.

I thought it would have more to it ,, but a good read anyway ,

About the author

Conn Iggulden is one of the most successful authors of historical fiction writing today. His previous series, on Julius Caesar and on the Mongol Khans of Central Asia, describe the founding of two of the greatest empires in history. Iggulden lives in Hertfordshire with his wife and children.