Heroes, Kings, Cannons–Twists in Historical Fiction

We love to read novels that keep us turning pages, but what keeps you reading? Maybe it’s:

A hero/heroine you identify with and root forA villain you love to hateAn historical personality (king, queen, pope, rebel) you enjoy observing ‘in action’

But how often does technology drive a novel’s plot, influence the story’s winners and losers, and keep us on the edge of our seats?

Maybe you’ve read a fascinating novel or seen a movie with a plot involving technology, such as:

Enigma encryption device used by Germany (and decrypted by Britain and its allies) during World War IIWright brothers’ airplane (1903)Printing press (1440)Oil painting (~1410)Compass (in wide use by 1300s)Magnifying lenses (1200s for weak-sighted, 1500s-1600s for microscopes and telescopes)

Recently, I discovered a fascinating new novel set in the reign of England’s Henry VIII, in which new cannons designed in Italy played a central role in the plot.

Henry VIII and Katherine of Aragon: The Cannon Conspiracy, by Maryann Philip (RealHistoryMystery-Press.com, ©2020)

My brief review:

King Henry VIII of England orders a new type of Italian cannon to protect his life, family, and reign. Although this novel’s premise may sound dry and technical, it develops into an intriguing plot.The story is told from the point of view of the heroine, a young Italian woman who accompanies the cannons to England. She turns out to be a sharp-eyed sleuth who turns her attention to a mystery that proves key to Henry’s reign.Along the way, I learned more about the motivations of Henry’s enemies, both domestic and foreign, who sought to destroy him.The author’s well-developed portrayal of Katherine of Aragon especially intrigued me—a marked contrast from common stereotypes about her.

An interesting and enjoyable read!

Readers, please share your favorite novels involving a technological innovation!

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