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This Son of York
Richard III. A man. A king. A legend.
He ruled England for only two years, but the legacy of Richard III remains both fascinating and divisive.
From his childhood in the intensely loyal and close-knit York family to his rise as a thoughtful but troubled ruler, This Son of York is a passionate and deeply personal account of the life of Richard III. A man who loved his family and his country. A king who struggled to overcome the challenges not only of a turbulent time but his own human frailties. A legend whose true life is only now coming to light.
Inspired by the discovery of Richard III's grave and its revelations, award-winning author Anne Easter Smith brings together her decades of intense research, five celebrated novels on the Wars of the Roses, and her sustained passion for Richard III in this culminating book on the last Plantagenet king.
He ruled England for only two years, but the legacy of Richard III remains both fascinating and divisive.
From his childhood in the intensely loyal and close-knit York family to his rise as a thoughtful but troubled ruler, This Son of York is a passionate and deeply personal account of the life of Richard III. A man who loved his family and his country. A king who struggled to overcome the challenges not only of a turbulent time but his own human frailties. A legend whose true life is only now coming to light.
Inspired by the discovery of Richard III's grave and its revelations, award-winning author Anne Easter Smith brings together her decades of intense research, five celebrated novels on the Wars of the Roses, and her sustained passion for Richard III in this culminating book on the last Plantagenet king.
506 pages, Paperback
First published November 10, 2019
76 people are currently reading
3325 people want to read
About the author
Anne Easter Smith
9 books579 followersA native of the UK, Anne Easter Smith is an award-winning historical novelist who has lived in the US for more than 40 years. Her six novels about the York family during the Wars of the Roses are published by Touchstone at Simon & Schuster and others. She was the Features Editor at the Press-Republican in Plattsburgh, NY for 10 years, and her writing has been featured in a number of national magazines. Anne welcomes visitors at her website at: www.anneeastersmith.com"
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
January 5, 2020
This was my first Anne Easter Smith novel, but it won't be my last. Ms. Smith has done years of research for her books and has an expertise in the time periods of which she writes.
This novel didn't read like a dusty old historical tome, but rather like a living, breathing work, in which the reader is transported back in time and is actually experiencing these events, seeing it with their own eyes.
As fun and exciting as a PG rated "Game of Thrones". I enjoyed this book so much. I loved this book and highly recommend it, because I believe you will too.
This novel didn't read like a dusty old historical tome, but rather like a living, breathing work, in which the reader is transported back in time and is actually experiencing these events, seeing it with their own eyes.
As fun and exciting as a PG rated "Game of Thrones". I enjoyed this book so much. I loved this book and highly recommend it, because I believe you will too.
November 12, 2019
I can't tell you how good it feels to have my nose in an Anne Easter Smith book again!
I first fell in love with Smith's Richard III in her first book, A Rose for the Crown. It's one of those books that stayed with me throughout the years and I always recommend it when I get the chance. I also loved her other books and they have their own special place on my keeper shelves. So you can guess how geeked out I was to pick up This Son of York, and it was everything I was hoping for and more!
This Son of York covers the life of Richard III started when he was known as Dickon, the youngest son of the Duke of York, until his death. The prologue was a poignant one as Richard thinks back on his life and reign on the eve of the Battle of Bosworth where he will meet his sad end. He was a reluctant King and his reign was plagued with rebellion and betrayals. The War of the Roses was like a medieval soap opera!
Anne adds some great touches to the book - at the start of some of the chapters she includes a quote from Philippa Langley, author of The King's Grave, who was there when Richard's bones were discovered under a car park and was present throughout the research process to determine if they were actually Richard's. That was really fascinating, but sad too. I mean, even though we are well aware that he is dead it still affected me to think of his poor body being there all this time, without a proper burial. He deserved more, but thankfully he is resting well now. Anne also includes a great epilogue and Author's Note, which I always love with historicals.
Richard III is one of the most infamous and controversial Monarchs in history but Anne Easter Smith really knows how to make him human and real, faults and all. Love him or hate him, he was an intriguing and complex man.
If you want to read about Richard III or the War of the Roses you need to check out the master at work and pick up one of Anne's books. You will learn a lot and be entertained all at the same time!
I first fell in love with Smith's Richard III in her first book, A Rose for the Crown. It's one of those books that stayed with me throughout the years and I always recommend it when I get the chance. I also loved her other books and they have their own special place on my keeper shelves. So you can guess how geeked out I was to pick up This Son of York, and it was everything I was hoping for and more!
This Son of York covers the life of Richard III started when he was known as Dickon, the youngest son of the Duke of York, until his death. The prologue was a poignant one as Richard thinks back on his life and reign on the eve of the Battle of Bosworth where he will meet his sad end. He was a reluctant King and his reign was plagued with rebellion and betrayals. The War of the Roses was like a medieval soap opera!
Anne adds some great touches to the book - at the start of some of the chapters she includes a quote from Philippa Langley, author of The King's Grave, who was there when Richard's bones were discovered under a car park and was present throughout the research process to determine if they were actually Richard's. That was really fascinating, but sad too. I mean, even though we are well aware that he is dead it still affected me to think of his poor body being there all this time, without a proper burial. He deserved more, but thankfully he is resting well now. Anne also includes a great epilogue and Author's Note, which I always love with historicals.
Richard III is one of the most infamous and controversial Monarchs in history but Anne Easter Smith really knows how to make him human and real, faults and all. Love him or hate him, he was an intriguing and complex man.
If you want to read about Richard III or the War of the Roses you need to check out the master at work and pick up one of Anne's books. You will learn a lot and be entertained all at the same time!
January 8, 2022
Anne Easter Smith is a wonderful writer of historical fiction. She knows her history and — most importantly — how to bring a story to life. Her latest novel, THIS SON OF YORK, is a vivid and truly gripping novel about Richard III. The audible edition is beautifully narrated by actor and author Chris (C.C.) Humphreys. Highly recommended!
April 4, 2020
Ever since I heard about the discovery of King Richard III grave in the car park back in the summer of 2012 in Leicester, I have been so fascinated by his story for a King that ruled England for only two tumultuous years. His reputation is as divisive and controversial as the legacy that remains in our memories for this ruler.
Anne Easter Smith has outdone herself in narrating a story about the York dynasty with amazing detail - an obviously well researched account of the time of his reign to his fall. The final chapter of the book was among the most amazing chapters I have ever read, EVER. The battle scene and the details of King Richard III last moments were simply short of being an amazing piece of literature.
The passages in the book were all very moving and prose so rich with details and an absolutely fabulous story full of creativity and knowledgeable accuracy of the time and his life. I highly recommend this amazing book. Smith wrote a masterpiece and brought to us Richard III as a complex character, and bringing to life a man so vulnerable and captivating.
Highly Recommend this Masterpiece!
Anne Easter Smith has outdone herself in narrating a story about the York dynasty with amazing detail - an obviously well researched account of the time of his reign to his fall. The final chapter of the book was among the most amazing chapters I have ever read, EVER. The battle scene and the details of King Richard III last moments were simply short of being an amazing piece of literature.
The passages in the book were all very moving and prose so rich with details and an absolutely fabulous story full of creativity and knowledgeable accuracy of the time and his life. I highly recommend this amazing book. Smith wrote a masterpiece and brought to us Richard III as a complex character, and bringing to life a man so vulnerable and captivating.
Highly Recommend this Masterpiece!
November 18, 2020
The Richard III in this book is definitely not Richard the romantic hero, but a guilt ridden, self loathing Richard. Although the portrait of Richard is ably rendered, there are several reasons for giving it 3, not 5 stars:
-Richard as a boy is a bit too precocious. The seven-year old Richard peppers adults with sophisticated questions about justice, a person’s place in society, duty, and kingship. The writing becomes didactic at this point, listing the lessons learned from several encounters: Never underestimate women, check; nobles and peasants are entitled to equal justice., check; loyalty to family, king and country come first, check.
-Too many comments foreshadow the future. “Richard could have uttered no truer words, for the capture of the Lancastrian pretender would have changed the course of English history” OR “it was impossible for Richard to know how this event would haunt him.” “[Margaret] had no inkling that she would get her turn later to go to Burgundy, but as a bride.” I don’t care for tfor such portentous statements and find them unnecessary.
-Much of the story is told by exposition, rather than by dramatic action. The middle section of the book drags a bit for me as a result.
However, the narrative begins to engage one as Richard’s scoliosis develops, and he becomes convinced that God is punishing him for some great sin. The sin is the killing of Henry VI. Although commanded to do so by his brother Edward, Richard murders the saintly Henry with his own hands, after the hired assassin bungles the job. This act haunts Richard for the rest of his days.
Richard is a complex character. He is spiteful and, then feels even more guilt as a result. He advises Edward to put George to death, remembering all the childhood wounds the latter inflicted on him. He marries Anne because of her status and inheritance, but he comes to love and treasure her.
After ascending the throne, he vows to atone for his past sins by governing well, but with every misfortune that befalls him, Richard plunges deeper and deeper into despair, believing God has abandoned him. He does start knocking back the wine flagons, to the dismay of Francis, Rob Percy, and Anne. Two days before Bosworth, we are told he drinks a gallon(!!) of claret.
Richard spirits rally and he believes God has not forsaken him when he espies Henry Tudor’s standard, and sees his chance for victory. Bosworth is always emotional for Richardians, and this telling is well done.
For me, this is not the most enthralling of the fictional treatments of Richard’s life , and Richard is not even very sympathetic. Moreover, while it is possible that he personally killed a Henry VI, I doubt it. I don’t believe for a minute he wanted George dead. I think the author went overboard in giving George no redeeming traits even as a child. While I give the author props for dealing with Richard’s scoliosis and in creating a complex character, it is not really a book I’ll want to read over again.
-Richard as a boy is a bit too precocious. The seven-year old Richard peppers adults with sophisticated questions about justice, a person’s place in society, duty, and kingship. The writing becomes didactic at this point, listing the lessons learned from several encounters: Never underestimate women, check; nobles and peasants are entitled to equal justice., check; loyalty to family, king and country come first, check.
-Too many comments foreshadow the future. “Richard could have uttered no truer words, for the capture of the Lancastrian pretender would have changed the course of English history” OR “it was impossible for Richard to know how this event would haunt him.” “[Margaret] had no inkling that she would get her turn later to go to Burgundy, but as a bride.” I don’t care for tfor such portentous statements and find them unnecessary.
-Much of the story is told by exposition, rather than by dramatic action. The middle section of the book drags a bit for me as a result.
However, the narrative begins to engage one as Richard’s scoliosis develops, and he becomes convinced that God is punishing him for some great sin. The sin is the killing of Henry VI. Although commanded to do so by his brother Edward, Richard murders the saintly Henry with his own hands, after the hired assassin bungles the job. This act haunts Richard for the rest of his days.
Richard is a complex character. He is spiteful and, then feels even more guilt as a result. He advises Edward to put George to death, remembering all the childhood wounds the latter inflicted on him. He marries Anne because of her status and inheritance, but he comes to love and treasure her.
After ascending the throne, he vows to atone for his past sins by governing well, but with every misfortune that befalls him, Richard plunges deeper and deeper into despair, believing God has abandoned him. He does start knocking back the wine flagons, to the dismay of Francis, Rob Percy, and Anne. Two days before Bosworth, we are told he drinks a gallon(!!) of claret.
Richard spirits rally and he believes God has not forsaken him when he espies Henry Tudor’s standard, and sees his chance for victory. Bosworth is always emotional for Richardians, and this telling is well done.
For me, this is not the most enthralling of the fictional treatments of Richard’s life , and Richard is not even very sympathetic. Moreover, while it is possible that he personally killed a Henry VI, I doubt it. I don’t believe for a minute he wanted George dead. I think the author went overboard in giving George no redeeming traits even as a child. While I give the author props for dealing with Richard’s scoliosis and in creating a complex character, it is not really a book I’ll want to read over again.
December 12, 2019
Anne Easter Smith has brought to life like no one else the most fascinating figures of the York dynasty of England, and now, in this long-awaited novel, she writes the definitive story of Richard III. Deeply researched, the book bursts with action but even more importantly we are given passages of real feeling between human beings we think we may know but perhaps never completely understood until this book. It is a moving, insightful, and engrossing depiction of the controversial king.
March 8, 2020
Not enjoyable
As a ricardian of some 35 plus years, I have to say this book did not sit well with me. It made Richard out to be quite an unlikable person to me, which he certainly was not. And to hypothesize that Harry Stafford murdered the prince's was far fetched, when it is unlikely that anyone did. Richard probably merely had them sent away from Beaufort and Tudor agents.
As a ricardian of some 35 plus years, I have to say this book did not sit well with me. It made Richard out to be quite an unlikable person to me, which he certainly was not. And to hypothesize that Harry Stafford murdered the prince's was far fetched, when it is unlikely that anyone did. Richard probably merely had them sent away from Beaufort and Tudor agents.
October 19, 2021
This is one of the most recent fictional novels about the life of Richard III from his childhood to his death, how is it different from other books? Well, it includes the scoliosis of Richard III as something crucial in his life that defines his character, despite the fact that the author seems to have a positive opinion of RIII in other books that she has written releated to him in this novel RIII is not innocent of all the crimes of those that history has accused him over the centuries, rather the book seeks to present us a balanced portrait of RIII, so he is not a misunderstood hero as in other recent books, the truth is that the book does not have success portraying his childhood that ended up being an illogical and simple portrait, his adolescence is affected by scoliosis and the problems of the country at this point the book does present an interesting, dark, insecure, ambitious character but not a bad person, here i would say that the book improves and becomes a quick read although it sacrifices the descriptive details in the process which does not allow you to get involved in the plot or in the scenarios, even so it becomes a good reading it develops the facts in an entertaining way, the ending is very well achieved with a dramatic and nostalgic touch, it is not a bad book but to be recent it leaves out many facts that are known from history of RIII, it is not the best book about RIII not the worst has good moments so I give it 3 stars no five because throughout the book many events become absurd.
SPOILERS
Anne Easter the author of this book has been writing novels about the family and even Richard's mistress who according to her book (A rose for the crown) gave him 3 children, and in this book she finally decided to take RIII as her character main bringing back to Kate the mistress presented in a rose for the crown, the books are not exactly a saga so it is not necessary to read the others to understand this one or any other.
Richard is a child who grows up in hard times, he faces the death of his father and political betrayals, which makes him a strong child who learns about justice and life (the lessons are credible but they are presented to him and absorbed in a rather ridiculous way), he is sent to the house of his cousin Richard Neville Kingmaker with whom he creates a bond, there he meets other childrens who will be his friends but unlike other books in this case Rob Percy is initially the closest to Richard not Francis Lovell, during these years of training Richard experiences a physical attraction a bit sexualized by Isabel Neville the eldest daughter of his mentor the kingmaker , Richard is almost a teenager like Isabel so this adoration is understandable but unfortunately she he ignores Richard because she likes Geroge of clarence Richard's hated brother with whom he can never get along because of the bulling and the incompatibility of personalities Geroge is an idiot ambitious and Richard is loyal and hardworking (the book does not do a great job showing these positive things in Richard at least not convincingly) Richard soon gets over his "adoration" for Isabel, oh by the way around fluttering like a butterfly is Anne Neville ,Isabel's younger sister who is almost obsessed with Richard whom she sees as a hero Why? No idea , he does nothing but treat her with contempt and manipulate her during those years but Anne seems to be determined to be a victim of life from the beginning. Richard soon begins to be independent and gets a mistress named Kate with whom he has a relationship of pure love and passion (quite romanticized and totally tragic: a royal duke and she a poor nobody) they have three children but Kate will hide the last one from him, Why? For Richard not to have this son on his conscience and go to his political marriage guilt-free (despite the fact that he was conceived before he got married which makes this part absurd and stupid, I mean two bastard children have to be accepeted by his future wife but THREE ?? (would be impossible according to kate's logic), the good thing is that we do not read so much of this cloying and silly romance, although it is clear to us that Kate is and will always be Richard's true love.
Richard suffers bitterly, the scoliosis feels that God punishes him and becomes pious (although he sleeps with Kate who is married and not to him obviosly ) the scoliosis bothers him a lot and is worse when he ends up in Exile in Burgundy for the second time in his life because his brother loses the throne, and more painful for Richard is knowing that his mentor Kingmaker is on the other side fighting for the Lancaster house and has also given his youngest daughter Anne Neville in marriage to Prince Edward of Lancaster that affects Richard and he is like: Nooo Anne! They say that Edward is a monster for sure it will be bad on her and now that I think about it, I would like her for a wife because of her pedigree (So Richard was an idiot with Anne but he is a Duke of York so it's okay, not that this Edward is a Lancaster so he does not have permission to be an idiot with Anne ok ....) Richard triumphs as a commander of his brothe York won and he becomes a hero, everything seems to be going well he has a good relationship with his brother the King and even with his sister-in-law queen Elizabeth, but the ugly part is that his duty is to assassinate the deposed King Henry VI whom he kills with his own hands (It sounds like something stolen from Shakespeare's play, it is also done in an absurd way, it is something like "take off clumsy mercenary I will do it ") from that moment Richard is convinced that God punishes him for this murder and the scoliosis worsens which leads him to develop mood swings and outbursts of anger, he goes to rule the north and decides to marry Anne Neville who lost her husband during the last battle of course that she is still stupidly in love with Richard, he leaves his mistress and promises to focus on his wife, here we have a HUGE silly moment, half of the book we read how beautiful is Kate, how sexy, how smart, how talented, how Richard loves her and only her with madness, a love so big that can't be described, Edward IV knows of this love so advices Richard to marry Kate, after all he did it with Elizabeth but Richard says No and chooses Anne, and why? Just because he wants to annoys George a little and because Anne is ok to be his bride, is not even explained how needed could be Anne for the north NO so I don't know if the author didn't know how to explain the separation after forced the story with Kate as the biggest love ever known, or if she just didn't care give logic to her story, here she should have present Kate / Richard as a lustful affair or made them love each other and keep together in secret I don't know just give sense to your story, I felt robbed after reading and reading the ridiculous love story and see why and how it got broken. Continuing with the story, Anne is a strong and sweet girl loving him nonetheless his bastards or his scolicis, she bears his mood swings, the love he always keeps in his heart for kate over the years, and waits in the sanctuary for months because Richard is a bit clumsy negotiating for their marriage with his brothers, thir life together is not so bad in general and he is faithful (in body because in mind he couldn't stop thinking about Kate even after Anne's death he falls into her arms again) he treats Anne with respect but he is not the husband of the year, for him Anne is a consolation but she will never be Kate who he sees through the years and he even uses his children as a remembrance of that love, all this while Anne goes around rubbing his sore back, being a good stepmother, a good wife, an excellent consort, and loving him madly, which I never understood, except to make love to her with charm, he does not do much to make her happy. (seriously Anne why did you love him all your life?).
Richard manages the north with efficiency and sees happy how is killed George Clarence his brother, not only he does not care about him but it seems good to him that they kill him as always
they hated each other is understandable or should be but is not ( Richard felt gulty and sad for killing Henry VI, he became pious and God fearing but then he goes to support his own brother's murder for not reason apart from their childish fights every three or more years that they meet each other but it seems that was good for the plot so Richard kills someone else )
He becomes King at the death of his brother Edward with the typical version, Edward's non-legal marriage, Buckigham manipulates everything (Richard becomes alcoholic as events progress and does not use his logic much to unravel all the conspiracies), I was surprised that he will not kill the princes (Shakespeare must be disappointed), his niece elizabeth falls in love with him, Why? No idea at this point Richard is not only angry all the time but also a little out of control with the situation but she loves him, and gets angry when he rejects her "I hate you man I will marry Henry Tudor" (as if she had a vote in the bussines) The ending explains well the betrayal and the mental state of Richard I think that the most redeemable in general is this Richard that is dark quite complex but does not convince me especially considering that he was a man who even today generates hatred or love, they had reasons to hate him but I saw few to love him, I think only Kate and Edward could consider him a good person in this book because he trated them well almost always, I recognize that the character is well done the author does a good job with him but I am not convinced nor do I like him I think he is terribly poorly balanced and the book for me is full of silly or a little absurd things that ruined the story, in general I am disappointed to know that now with so much information avaliable Anne easter still went for myths instead of go for facts or use her logic .
SPOILERS
Anne Easter the author of this book has been writing novels about the family and even Richard's mistress who according to her book (A rose for the crown) gave him 3 children, and in this book she finally decided to take RIII as her character main bringing back to Kate the mistress presented in a rose for the crown, the books are not exactly a saga so it is not necessary to read the others to understand this one or any other.
Richard is a child who grows up in hard times, he faces the death of his father and political betrayals, which makes him a strong child who learns about justice and life (the lessons are credible but they are presented to him and absorbed in a rather ridiculous way), he is sent to the house of his cousin Richard Neville Kingmaker with whom he creates a bond, there he meets other childrens who will be his friends but unlike other books in this case Rob Percy is initially the closest to Richard not Francis Lovell, during these years of training Richard experiences a physical attraction a bit sexualized by Isabel Neville the eldest daughter of his mentor the kingmaker , Richard is almost a teenager like Isabel so this adoration is understandable but unfortunately she he ignores Richard because she likes Geroge of clarence Richard's hated brother with whom he can never get along because of the bulling and the incompatibility of personalities Geroge is an idiot ambitious and Richard is loyal and hardworking (the book does not do a great job showing these positive things in Richard at least not convincingly) Richard soon gets over his "adoration" for Isabel, oh by the way around fluttering like a butterfly is Anne Neville ,Isabel's younger sister who is almost obsessed with Richard whom she sees as a hero Why? No idea , he does nothing but treat her with contempt and manipulate her during those years but Anne seems to be determined to be a victim of life from the beginning. Richard soon begins to be independent and gets a mistress named Kate with whom he has a relationship of pure love and passion (quite romanticized and totally tragic: a royal duke and she a poor nobody) they have three children but Kate will hide the last one from him, Why? For Richard not to have this son on his conscience and go to his political marriage guilt-free (despite the fact that he was conceived before he got married which makes this part absurd and stupid, I mean two bastard children have to be accepeted by his future wife but THREE ?? (would be impossible according to kate's logic), the good thing is that we do not read so much of this cloying and silly romance, although it is clear to us that Kate is and will always be Richard's true love.
Richard suffers bitterly, the scoliosis feels that God punishes him and becomes pious (although he sleeps with Kate who is married and not to him obviosly ) the scoliosis bothers him a lot and is worse when he ends up in Exile in Burgundy for the second time in his life because his brother loses the throne, and more painful for Richard is knowing that his mentor Kingmaker is on the other side fighting for the Lancaster house and has also given his youngest daughter Anne Neville in marriage to Prince Edward of Lancaster that affects Richard and he is like: Nooo Anne! They say that Edward is a monster for sure it will be bad on her and now that I think about it, I would like her for a wife because of her pedigree (So Richard was an idiot with Anne but he is a Duke of York so it's okay, not that this Edward is a Lancaster so he does not have permission to be an idiot with Anne ok ....) Richard triumphs as a commander of his brothe York won and he becomes a hero, everything seems to be going well he has a good relationship with his brother the King and even with his sister-in-law queen Elizabeth, but the ugly part is that his duty is to assassinate the deposed King Henry VI whom he kills with his own hands (It sounds like something stolen from Shakespeare's play, it is also done in an absurd way, it is something like "take off clumsy mercenary I will do it ") from that moment Richard is convinced that God punishes him for this murder and the scoliosis worsens which leads him to develop mood swings and outbursts of anger, he goes to rule the north and decides to marry Anne Neville who lost her husband during the last battle of course that she is still stupidly in love with Richard, he leaves his mistress and promises to focus on his wife, here we have a HUGE silly moment, half of the book we read how beautiful is Kate, how sexy, how smart, how talented, how Richard loves her and only her with madness, a love so big that can't be described, Edward IV knows of this love so advices Richard to marry Kate, after all he did it with Elizabeth but Richard says No and chooses Anne, and why? Just because he wants to annoys George a little and because Anne is ok to be his bride, is not even explained how needed could be Anne for the north NO so I don't know if the author didn't know how to explain the separation after forced the story with Kate as the biggest love ever known, or if she just didn't care give logic to her story, here she should have present Kate / Richard as a lustful affair or made them love each other and keep together in secret I don't know just give sense to your story, I felt robbed after reading and reading the ridiculous love story and see why and how it got broken. Continuing with the story, Anne is a strong and sweet girl loving him nonetheless his bastards or his scolicis, she bears his mood swings, the love he always keeps in his heart for kate over the years, and waits in the sanctuary for months because Richard is a bit clumsy negotiating for their marriage with his brothers, thir life together is not so bad in general and he is faithful (in body because in mind he couldn't stop thinking about Kate even after Anne's death he falls into her arms again) he treats Anne with respect but he is not the husband of the year, for him Anne is a consolation but she will never be Kate who he sees through the years and he even uses his children as a remembrance of that love, all this while Anne goes around rubbing his sore back, being a good stepmother, a good wife, an excellent consort, and loving him madly, which I never understood, except to make love to her with charm, he does not do much to make her happy. (seriously Anne why did you love him all your life?).
Richard manages the north with efficiency and sees happy how is killed George Clarence his brother, not only he does not care about him but it seems good to him that they kill him as always
they hated each other is understandable or should be but is not ( Richard felt gulty and sad for killing Henry VI, he became pious and God fearing but then he goes to support his own brother's murder for not reason apart from their childish fights every three or more years that they meet each other but it seems that was good for the plot so Richard kills someone else )
He becomes King at the death of his brother Edward with the typical version, Edward's non-legal marriage, Buckigham manipulates everything (Richard becomes alcoholic as events progress and does not use his logic much to unravel all the conspiracies), I was surprised that he will not kill the princes (Shakespeare must be disappointed), his niece elizabeth falls in love with him, Why? No idea at this point Richard is not only angry all the time but also a little out of control with the situation but she loves him, and gets angry when he rejects her "I hate you man I will marry Henry Tudor" (as if she had a vote in the bussines) The ending explains well the betrayal and the mental state of Richard I think that the most redeemable in general is this Richard that is dark quite complex but does not convince me especially considering that he was a man who even today generates hatred or love, they had reasons to hate him but I saw few to love him, I think only Kate and Edward could consider him a good person in this book because he trated them well almost always, I recognize that the character is well done the author does a good job with him but I am not convinced nor do I like him I think he is terribly poorly balanced and the book for me is full of silly or a little absurd things that ruined the story, in general I am disappointed to know that now with so much information avaliable Anne easter still went for myths instead of go for facts or use her logic .
November 17, 2019
I’m struggling to find the right words to describe my thoughts on this book without sounding like a blubbering idiot. It’s a book that puts so much pressure on the next one I pick up to read (and being a bigamist reader my audio and print books are 5+ stars also), poor poor next book.
This is my fourth book by Anne Easter Smith, the previous three were audiobooks, I went that route because of the size. The Son of York comes in at 500 pages and from past experience, I knew I was in for a real big treat.
Beginning when Richard was a wee little lad, watching him grow up, his relationship with his siblings and parents shaped who he was, as did the era and environment - with its unrest and battle for the crown. Not only was his character development spot on but also the entire cast of characters. Which in turn reflected in the story.
I can see why it takes a bit for a new Anne Easter Smith book to be released. Her attention to detail, the emotional aspects and dare I mention the research, to say the research is evident doesn’t really give the statement the respect it deserves. Lets just say she knows her history.
I was placed in the time period and felt the drama. I knew how this book would end, with each page I was hoping for a different outcome. I connected with Richard III and now have a new appreciation for what might have transpired. Definitely, an author I highly recommend, not just those that love HF but those that love an epic-sized book to get lost in the pages of.
My thanks to Amy at HFVBT for the invite to be part of this tour and an arc in exchange for an honest review.
This is my fourth book by Anne Easter Smith, the previous three were audiobooks, I went that route because of the size. The Son of York comes in at 500 pages and from past experience, I knew I was in for a real big treat.
Beginning when Richard was a wee little lad, watching him grow up, his relationship with his siblings and parents shaped who he was, as did the era and environment - with its unrest and battle for the crown. Not only was his character development spot on but also the entire cast of characters. Which in turn reflected in the story.
I can see why it takes a bit for a new Anne Easter Smith book to be released. Her attention to detail, the emotional aspects and dare I mention the research, to say the research is evident doesn’t really give the statement the respect it deserves. Lets just say she knows her history.
I was placed in the time period and felt the drama. I knew how this book would end, with each page I was hoping for a different outcome. I connected with Richard III and now have a new appreciation for what might have transpired. Definitely, an author I highly recommend, not just those that love HF but those that love an epic-sized book to get lost in the pages of.
My thanks to Amy at HFVBT for the invite to be part of this tour and an arc in exchange for an honest review.
November 26, 2019
“Loyalty binds me” was King Richard III’s motto in the late 1490s in England. Anne Easter Smith presents the life of Richard in a fairly even-handed manner, using multiple accepted sources as well as the DNA and anatomy studies from King Richard’s corpse found under a car park in Leicester, Great Britain.
Readers cannot help but recognize that Richard lived a very difficult life with most of it spent trying to repel the Tudor traitors from reigning, an endless enmity between the Lancaster and York families. As a young boy, his brother Clarence demeaned Richard, calling him “runt” because of his smaller size. Clarence was always the charmer around adults but his true mean streak often fell on Richard. His brother Edward, the King, knew Richard was the serious moral son and acknowledged it in admiration but also in jest. Richard begins to earn some self-respect when he is being prepared to be knighted under Warwick (“the Kingmaker”) and serve the King.
Richard is late to experience romance but when he falls in love with Kate Haute, a commoner, he exhibits faithfulness and truly loving dedication to her for life. She will have several children who receive life-long financial support, even after Richard marries Anne, Warwick’s daughter. From this point, a series of disasters follow in which Richard is responsible for or connected with the death of King Henry VII, the two sons of King Henry VII, and several traitors including his brother Clarence. Add to that his loss of his son Ned and his wife Anne and readers understand how Richard is afflicted by guilt and depression.
The War of the Roses is the main plot of this novel, with Yorkist kings for the most part accused of too much drinking, injustice, poor leadership, etc. King Richard III actually only rules for two years before he is killed in the Battle of Bosworth. This story also deals with the scoliosis back problem that plagued Richard’s life. The author does a superb job of creating a complex character who is credible and doubtful, proud but plagued by self-doubt, compassionate but formidably harsh. The challenge of maintaining faith is also examined repeatedly as King Richard believes he is being punished for wrongdoings over the years.
The Son of York is a momentous work of historical fiction sure to garner praise, questions and avid commentary. It deserves high praise for its excellent writing, characterization, depiction of setting and presentation of complex mysteries and challenges regarding 15th Century English history. Kudos to Anne Easter Smith for this highly recommended read!
Readers cannot help but recognize that Richard lived a very difficult life with most of it spent trying to repel the Tudor traitors from reigning, an endless enmity between the Lancaster and York families. As a young boy, his brother Clarence demeaned Richard, calling him “runt” because of his smaller size. Clarence was always the charmer around adults but his true mean streak often fell on Richard. His brother Edward, the King, knew Richard was the serious moral son and acknowledged it in admiration but also in jest. Richard begins to earn some self-respect when he is being prepared to be knighted under Warwick (“the Kingmaker”) and serve the King.
Richard is late to experience romance but when he falls in love with Kate Haute, a commoner, he exhibits faithfulness and truly loving dedication to her for life. She will have several children who receive life-long financial support, even after Richard marries Anne, Warwick’s daughter. From this point, a series of disasters follow in which Richard is responsible for or connected with the death of King Henry VII, the two sons of King Henry VII, and several traitors including his brother Clarence. Add to that his loss of his son Ned and his wife Anne and readers understand how Richard is afflicted by guilt and depression.
The War of the Roses is the main plot of this novel, with Yorkist kings for the most part accused of too much drinking, injustice, poor leadership, etc. King Richard III actually only rules for two years before he is killed in the Battle of Bosworth. This story also deals with the scoliosis back problem that plagued Richard’s life. The author does a superb job of creating a complex character who is credible and doubtful, proud but plagued by self-doubt, compassionate but formidably harsh. The challenge of maintaining faith is also examined repeatedly as King Richard believes he is being punished for wrongdoings over the years.
The Son of York is a momentous work of historical fiction sure to garner praise, questions and avid commentary. It deserves high praise for its excellent writing, characterization, depiction of setting and presentation of complex mysteries and challenges regarding 15th Century English history. Kudos to Anne Easter Smith for this highly recommended read!
May 29, 2023
Really, I think this is more of a 2.75 rounded up. While I appreciated the research that clearly went into this novel, and I thought the framing device of the discovery of Richard III's grave in the car park was a nice touch, the book had several very annoying tics that I found so distracting it was hard to lose myself in the work and just enjoy the ride.
First and foremost, the author over-describes pretty much everyone and everything. Adverbs and adjectives abound and sometimes seem to multiply, and they pulled me right out of the narrative. This was most in evidence when Richard's merits were on display. The author did a good job of setting up scenes that expressed his piety, his generosity, his kindness, his knack for diplomacy, his perspicacity, and the like, but she could not keep herself from then telling the reader that the scene was meant to show said generosity, kindness, etc. And it wasn't just Richard who got this treatment, but every named character. No one could simply look at another important character and say something that conveyed an emotion or a thought without the addition of an adverb to be sure the reader knew what kind of a thought or emotion was being conveyed.
The next most annoying distraction was the constant foreshadowing. The author can't be content to let the reader deduce the effect an action might have on the character(s) or plot. No, she has to add something on the order of "Little did he know he would come to regret his command mightily" or "He should have listened to his friend's advice." And this happens throughout the book, at every portentous turn.
Finally, though the author developed the character of Richard fairly consistently throughout the book, once he becomes his nephew Edward's protector and the stress is on, he becomes, well, the only word is nuts. Instead of the displaying the careful wisdom of the advice he offers to his brother Edward V, he begins making terrible choices right and left, only sometimes interspersed with more considered decisions. It's jarring, especially when paired with the abundant foreshadowing.
I think I'm going to pull out my ancient copy of The Daughter of Time (Josephine Tey) for a palate cleanser.
First and foremost, the author over-describes pretty much everyone and everything. Adverbs and adjectives abound and sometimes seem to multiply, and they pulled me right out of the narrative. This was most in evidence when Richard's merits were on display. The author did a good job of setting up scenes that expressed his piety, his generosity, his kindness, his knack for diplomacy, his perspicacity, and the like, but she could not keep herself from then telling the reader that the scene was meant to show said generosity, kindness, etc. And it wasn't just Richard who got this treatment, but every named character. No one could simply look at another important character and say something that conveyed an emotion or a thought without the addition of an adverb to be sure the reader knew what kind of a thought or emotion was being conveyed.
The next most annoying distraction was the constant foreshadowing. The author can't be content to let the reader deduce the effect an action might have on the character(s) or plot. No, she has to add something on the order of "Little did he know he would come to regret his command mightily" or "He should have listened to his friend's advice." And this happens throughout the book, at every portentous turn.
Finally, though the author developed the character of Richard fairly consistently throughout the book, once he becomes his nephew Edward's protector and the stress is on, he becomes, well, the only word is nuts. Instead of the displaying the careful wisdom of the advice he offers to his brother Edward V, he begins making terrible choices right and left, only sometimes interspersed with more considered decisions. It's jarring, especially when paired with the abundant foreshadowing.
I think I'm going to pull out my ancient copy of The Daughter of Time (Josephine Tey) for a palate cleanser.
January 17, 2020
Nobody likes boring, dull, plotless books. But as a writer, worse than that is cracking open a novel without heart.
Au contraire, Anne Easter Smith's THIS SON OF YORK roared with passion. That, perhaps, is the thing I like the most about this book. The story was fascinating, based on meticulous research and years of study. Easter-Smith's Richard III is a haunted, pained soul, struggling with his faith when it seemed as though everyone in his life died within a year's time. There were battles, love-affairs, fraternal rivalries, but again, it was the passion of Easter-Smith's telling of this rich history that gripped me most. The final twenty-five pages didn't allow me to stop reading, so immersed was I in Bosworth and sad farewells. This was the point of the novel that truly wrenched my heart.
But again... that PASSION--a fervor for TELLING Richard's story was so evident that it alone propels a reader forward.
Sections of the book were interlaced with the retelling of the 2007 discovery of Richard's humble grave. It was a fascinating addition to the historical tale.
Still, I keep coming back to Anne Easter-Smith's PASSION for telling Richard's story. It was obvious, honorable, and the end result was satisfying beyond measure. If you've never read about the end of the Wars of the Roses and the thirty years before the reign of the Tudors began, let Easter-Smith guide you.
Au contraire, Anne Easter Smith's THIS SON OF YORK roared with passion. That, perhaps, is the thing I like the most about this book. The story was fascinating, based on meticulous research and years of study. Easter-Smith's Richard III is a haunted, pained soul, struggling with his faith when it seemed as though everyone in his life died within a year's time. There were battles, love-affairs, fraternal rivalries, but again, it was the passion of Easter-Smith's telling of this rich history that gripped me most. The final twenty-five pages didn't allow me to stop reading, so immersed was I in Bosworth and sad farewells. This was the point of the novel that truly wrenched my heart.
But again... that PASSION--a fervor for TELLING Richard's story was so evident that it alone propels a reader forward.
Sections of the book were interlaced with the retelling of the 2007 discovery of Richard's humble grave. It was a fascinating addition to the historical tale.
Still, I keep coming back to Anne Easter-Smith's PASSION for telling Richard's story. It was obvious, honorable, and the end result was satisfying beyond measure. If you've never read about the end of the Wars of the Roses and the thirty years before the reign of the Tudors began, let Easter-Smith guide you.
November 10, 2019
✩•̩̩͙*˚ ๑♡๑•୨୧๑♡๑ ＊*•̩̩͙ ＊*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚ ๑♡๑•୨୧๑♡๑ ＊*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚•̩̩͙
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
Son of York is the 6th book of Anne Easter Smith’s Wars of the Roses. I have read and loved them all, they are set during the Wars of the Roses,the period during which the Yorkist and Lancastrian houses were in contention for the throne of England.
Anne Easter Smith latest masterpiece of historical fiction, This Son Of York, is a beautiful written book of the last English King to die in battle, thereby bringing to an end both the Plantagenet dynasty and the Wars of the Roses. This intimate look into one of the most controversial kings. Richard lll, life unfolds from within these pages of meticulous researched historical facts, and the author’s own fictional twist, to keep the the reader completely captivated until the end.
This was a magnificent book, a rich and vibrant historical fiction of a man known to us through history and legend. One who invokes such powerful emotional response from readers and historians alike.
The authors strong narration caries through as the story of Richard III life as it progresses, from his youth all the way through to the dark epic battlefield of Bosworth. The battle that ultimately changed everything, and led the Henry Vlll to the throne. A superb intense look of the man, Richard lll, the fourth son of The Duke of York. Smith’s phenomenal book, leads you through Richard’s journey from a young boy, into adulthood during a turbulent, multi-decade civil war in England.
Richard, also named Richard Plantagenet “Dickon” to avoid confusion with his father. Was the great-grandson of King Edward III through his father, and a great-great-great-grandson of the same king through his mother.
Young Dickon, is described as short, skeletal in nature, a sickly child born the 12 out of 13 children of Cecily Neville, Dugcchess of York. Which caused him to develop the unsavory nickname, “Runt.” What Richard lacked for in stature, his unquenchable thirst for knowledge, made him stand out from all his York Siblings. This precocious child, would see the mounting conflict between King Henry Vll hoVuse of Lancaster and the house of York as to which one had a better claim to the Plantagenet Crown.Dickon, was a child when his family, the House of York, engaged in battle against the Lancastrians for control of the country. This book traces Dickon’s life as a youngster, growing up with his family, including that under the shadow of his older brothers, and cousins. In this deeply thoughtful, moving novel, the details of Dickon.’s remarkable life, along with the personal trials of love and loss are realistically presented.
The author breathes life into some weighty complex issues surrounding events of this controversial historical figure. A refreshing and passionate introspective look at the struggles of the man, shouldering under the weight of pressures, to do what he thinks is right and what has been expected of his noble birth and title.
The authors written prose flows, creating a wonderful novel that is both treasurable as it is knowledgeable. Smith, delivers a compelling, intriguing, and well-written read here with absolutely fantastic characters that totally captivated and fascinated me. The strength of this novel hands downs is the author’s fabulous characterizations.
Vividly descriptive, placing me easily into the heart of this novel. I absolutely loved the books structure, and the wonderful fictional twist the author added to make it her story. A superb narrative look into the life of a man, that has been the center of many historical heated debates.
The authors portrait of Richard Ill, was he was a loyal brother and loving of husbands, under some of the most turbulent times. Having to make grave choices that have ultimately caused historians to cast a somewhat altered view of him.
One might say that under different circumstances he might have been a great king to England. Like so many things that go under looked today, the proof of it are in the laws he passed on in Parliament, which not only are still used today in England but all over the civilised world. That being said, Richard was only about 2 years on the throne, think of what he might have accomplished had he been given more time.
The Author has once again created an intriguing multi-layered and fascinating portrait of a fascinating man. This exceptional intricately plotted, medieval novel might be Anne Easter Smith, best work as to date. A stirring thought provoking book written with precision and depth.
A long bloody conflict, The Wars of Roses “The Cousins War” which some call it, was a destructive long and bloody civil war between 1455-1487. I have always had a passion for the time era, so this was a fast paced read for me. One I devoured in a day and half.
The battlefield of Bosworth, was the last decisive battle of the Wars Of Roses.This battle marked the end of the middle ages in England. Richard the lll, was the last king of the House of York and the last of the Plantagenet dynasty. He was also the last English king to ever fight in battle.
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
Son of York is the 6th book of Anne Easter Smith’s Wars of the Roses. I have read and loved them all, they are set during the Wars of the Roses,the period during which the Yorkist and Lancastrian houses were in contention for the throne of England.
Anne Easter Smith latest masterpiece of historical fiction, This Son Of York, is a beautiful written book of the last English King to die in battle, thereby bringing to an end both the Plantagenet dynasty and the Wars of the Roses. This intimate look into one of the most controversial kings. Richard lll, life unfolds from within these pages of meticulous researched historical facts, and the author’s own fictional twist, to keep the the reader completely captivated until the end.
This was a magnificent book, a rich and vibrant historical fiction of a man known to us through history and legend. One who invokes such powerful emotional response from readers and historians alike.
The authors strong narration caries through as the story of Richard III life as it progresses, from his youth all the way through to the dark epic battlefield of Bosworth. The battle that ultimately changed everything, and led the Henry Vlll to the throne. A superb intense look of the man, Richard lll, the fourth son of The Duke of York. Smith’s phenomenal book, leads you through Richard’s journey from a young boy, into adulthood during a turbulent, multi-decade civil war in England.
Richard, also named Richard Plantagenet “Dickon” to avoid confusion with his father. Was the great-grandson of King Edward III through his father, and a great-great-great-grandson of the same king through his mother.
Young Dickon, is described as short, skeletal in nature, a sickly child born the 12 out of 13 children of Cecily Neville, Dugcchess of York. Which caused him to develop the unsavory nickname, “Runt.” What Richard lacked for in stature, his unquenchable thirst for knowledge, made him stand out from all his York Siblings. This precocious child, would see the mounting conflict between King Henry Vll hoVuse of Lancaster and the house of York as to which one had a better claim to the Plantagenet Crown.Dickon, was a child when his family, the House of York, engaged in battle against the Lancastrians for control of the country. This book traces Dickon’s life as a youngster, growing up with his family, including that under the shadow of his older brothers, and cousins. In this deeply thoughtful, moving novel, the details of Dickon.’s remarkable life, along with the personal trials of love and loss are realistically presented.
The author breathes life into some weighty complex issues surrounding events of this controversial historical figure. A refreshing and passionate introspective look at the struggles of the man, shouldering under the weight of pressures, to do what he thinks is right and what has been expected of his noble birth and title.
The authors written prose flows, creating a wonderful novel that is both treasurable as it is knowledgeable. Smith, delivers a compelling, intriguing, and well-written read here with absolutely fantastic characters that totally captivated and fascinated me. The strength of this novel hands downs is the author’s fabulous characterizations.
Vividly descriptive, placing me easily into the heart of this novel. I absolutely loved the books structure, and the wonderful fictional twist the author added to make it her story. A superb narrative look into the life of a man, that has been the center of many historical heated debates.
The authors portrait of Richard Ill, was he was a loyal brother and loving of husbands, under some of the most turbulent times. Having to make grave choices that have ultimately caused historians to cast a somewhat altered view of him.
One might say that under different circumstances he might have been a great king to England. Like so many things that go under looked today, the proof of it are in the laws he passed on in Parliament, which not only are still used today in England but all over the civilised world. That being said, Richard was only about 2 years on the throne, think of what he might have accomplished had he been given more time.
The Author has once again created an intriguing multi-layered and fascinating portrait of a fascinating man. This exceptional intricately plotted, medieval novel might be Anne Easter Smith, best work as to date. A stirring thought provoking book written with precision and depth.
A long bloody conflict, The Wars of Roses “The Cousins War” which some call it, was a destructive long and bloody civil war between 1455-1487. I have always had a passion for the time era, so this was a fast paced read for me. One I devoured in a day and half.
The battlefield of Bosworth, was the last decisive battle of the Wars Of Roses.This battle marked the end of the middle ages in England. Richard the lll, was the last king of the House of York and the last of the Plantagenet dynasty. He was also the last English king to ever fight in battle.
March 1, 2020
Having read all of Anne Easter Smith books, this one seemed to be a repeat or a rehashing of much of what was known by this author and others. I enjoyed all her other books immensely, but this one was long and definitely not my favorite.
January 16, 2021
There is a quirk in the narration that annoyed me—authorial intrusion of the “little did he know” variety. I don’t like being told ahead of time that the character is going to find out that what he thinks in a particular moment is sadly mistaken. I enjoyed the alternative view of Richard, so I did finish. I also liked the excerpts about finding Richard’s remains in the 2000s.
January 3, 2022
This is a marvelous and meaty story of King Richard that dives deep into the psychology and family dynamics--and the audio book is masterfully narrated by Chris Humphreys for maximum cinematic entertainment value. This is a rich tapestry of history that puts you on the inside of one of history's wildest soap operas. Anne Easter Smith's passion for her subject translates into a brilliant and compelling epic! And I say this as someone who doesn't even like Richard--shhh, don't tell!
July 6, 2020
Tells the story of Richard III and humanizes him during the telling. Written sympathetically this tells of his childhood, teen years, as well as his adult years. He is no saint but he comes across as a good man. He is hardened by what happens to him and what he must do to remain loyal to God, King, and Country as taught to him by his father. His brothers are no role models but he finds good men in his life to teach him and train him.
I liked that we got a glimpse into his childhood. His brother George was a jerk. Edward should not have been in charge of young boys. Fortunately Richard is religious and moral and does not live as so many nobles during that time did. He tried to do right by those under his care whether in his house or kingdom. He tried to bring justice to the commoners. He was a faithful husband. History portrays him as cruel but he is only trying to follow what his father taught him. England first. I liked his friends from his teen years who become his advisors. He should have listened to them instead of some that he did. There was a lot of betrayal in his life from childhood on. The women in his life were more steadfast than most of the men.
He is also a thinker. He questions and ponders and comes to a conclusion, most of which are right. Now I'm interested in reading more books about this family.
I liked that we got a glimpse into his childhood. His brother George was a jerk. Edward should not have been in charge of young boys. Fortunately Richard is religious and moral and does not live as so many nobles during that time did. He tried to do right by those under his care whether in his house or kingdom. He tried to bring justice to the commoners. He was a faithful husband. History portrays him as cruel but he is only trying to follow what his father taught him. England first. I liked his friends from his teen years who become his advisors. He should have listened to them instead of some that he did. There was a lot of betrayal in his life from childhood on. The women in his life were more steadfast than most of the men.
He is also a thinker. He questions and ponders and comes to a conclusion, most of which are right. Now I'm interested in reading more books about this family.
November 28, 2019
I should acknowledge at the start that I am a TOTAL GEEK when it comes to England’s King Richard III, who is probably THE single most interesting royal in the country’s history. As a result, I’ve read lots of both fiction and non-fiction about him. I am also a big fan of Anne Easter Smith's historical novels. Unfortunately, this particular novel, that I looked forward to with GREAT anticipation, didn’t quite do it for me. Awarded four stars, which might be a bit generous.
First, a bit of background. What makes Richard so interesting to me is how maligned history has made him. He is generally portrayed as the vicious, humpback murderer of the “two Princes in the Tower” -- created by the likes of Shakespeare and Sir Thomas Moore. But after reading DAUGHTER OF TIME, by Josephine Tey, I came to believe that these Tudor-era writers were simply adhering to the Tudor Dynasty narrative. Stay with me - here comes a little history. Because the founder of the Tudors, Henry VII, who defeated Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth and then took his crown, had to paint Richard as a villain in order to legitimize the Tudor Dynasty (whose own claim was pretty flimsy). It was all 15th century public relations. Many writers subsequently, AND the Richard III Society have done a lot of work dispelling this dark image and instead paint Richard as a dutiful, loyal brother who was forced to take the throne and tried to do his best as king. (Not a portrait that would have served the usurping Tudors.)
So, here’s what I like about the book:
• It follows Richard throughout his entire life and the author does a good job fleshing out a childhood where Richard, as the youngest child and fourth son, gets much less attention than his older siblings.
• Smith also introduces a young version of Richard’s infamous brother George (later Duke of Clarence) and makes him just as bullying and detestable as he proves to be in adult life.
• Smith also creates believable motivations for Richard throughout his life, especially in areas where there is little historical information.
My biggest complaint is the uneven use Smith made of the narrator’s viewpoint. Let me explain. For most of the book I was fully immersed in Richard’s story, as it was unfolding. Watching WITH him as he observes the dangerous and difficult lives of those who have the responsibility for governance and believably reflecting that he is pleased not to have to carry such a burden. So, when Richard thinks about how glad he is to be a fourth son who will never become king (even though WE know he will) it feels in keeping with and authentic to his viewpoint.
Then, abruptly and WAY TOO often, the author inserts some cryptic remark about Richard’s future, even though Richard (like all of us) can’t know what will happen in his future. These heavy-handed statements like “He couldn’t know how important this decision would become” OR “it was impossible for Richard to know how this event would haunt him.” These “interruptions” completely pulled me out of Richard’s story, so that I was suddenly looking at him through the long lens of time.
And I can’t figure out any good reason for the author doing this. Perhaps it was her way of dropping a morsel to keep me reading. But I found it distracting and annoying. In my view, you either have Richard’s life unfold as it would have for him, in sequence (my preference for historical fiction because it makes more historical characters like us). Or, you write as an omniscient narrator who knows ALL and shares it along the way. But it didn’t work for me to try to do both.
It’s not a big enough flaw to turn me off to this writer. I have enjoyed her other books way too much. It’s just that her other historical novels, many related to Richard III, rank higher on my list.
First, a bit of background. What makes Richard so interesting to me is how maligned history has made him. He is generally portrayed as the vicious, humpback murderer of the “two Princes in the Tower” -- created by the likes of Shakespeare and Sir Thomas Moore. But after reading DAUGHTER OF TIME, by Josephine Tey, I came to believe that these Tudor-era writers were simply adhering to the Tudor Dynasty narrative. Stay with me - here comes a little history. Because the founder of the Tudors, Henry VII, who defeated Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth and then took his crown, had to paint Richard as a villain in order to legitimize the Tudor Dynasty (whose own claim was pretty flimsy). It was all 15th century public relations. Many writers subsequently, AND the Richard III Society have done a lot of work dispelling this dark image and instead paint Richard as a dutiful, loyal brother who was forced to take the throne and tried to do his best as king. (Not a portrait that would have served the usurping Tudors.)
So, here’s what I like about the book:
• It follows Richard throughout his entire life and the author does a good job fleshing out a childhood where Richard, as the youngest child and fourth son, gets much less attention than his older siblings.
• Smith also introduces a young version of Richard’s infamous brother George (later Duke of Clarence) and makes him just as bullying and detestable as he proves to be in adult life.
• Smith also creates believable motivations for Richard throughout his life, especially in areas where there is little historical information.
My biggest complaint is the uneven use Smith made of the narrator’s viewpoint. Let me explain. For most of the book I was fully immersed in Richard’s story, as it was unfolding. Watching WITH him as he observes the dangerous and difficult lives of those who have the responsibility for governance and believably reflecting that he is pleased not to have to carry such a burden. So, when Richard thinks about how glad he is to be a fourth son who will never become king (even though WE know he will) it feels in keeping with and authentic to his viewpoint.
Then, abruptly and WAY TOO often, the author inserts some cryptic remark about Richard’s future, even though Richard (like all of us) can’t know what will happen in his future. These heavy-handed statements like “He couldn’t know how important this decision would become” OR “it was impossible for Richard to know how this event would haunt him.” These “interruptions” completely pulled me out of Richard’s story, so that I was suddenly looking at him through the long lens of time.
And I can’t figure out any good reason for the author doing this. Perhaps it was her way of dropping a morsel to keep me reading. But I found it distracting and annoying. In my view, you either have Richard’s life unfold as it would have for him, in sequence (my preference for historical fiction because it makes more historical characters like us). Or, you write as an omniscient narrator who knows ALL and shares it along the way. But it didn’t work for me to try to do both.
It’s not a big enough flaw to turn me off to this writer. I have enjoyed her other books way too much. It’s just that her other historical novels, many related to Richard III, rank higher on my list.
December 4, 2019
From the time I was a little girl, I was fascinated with all things to do with England. Maybe it had to do with my huge crush on Davy Jones, and then Paul McCartney and George Harrison. Whatever it was that made me so interested, that interest stuck. And authors like Anne Easter Smith fuel my hunger for more when it comes to learning about the kings and queens of England.
Richard III isn't one of the royals I've read much about, so I dove into this book straight away. It took me awhile to finish it, because I have a very short attention span these days, but oh was it worth it. Anne has a great flair for bringing these historical figures to life again, and making them seem much more human than any history book ever could.
Richard's story is very moving. I remember when they unearthed his remains in 2012. I vaguely remember reading about him in one of Philippa Gregory's books.
It took me a long time to finish this one, but as I tell people, I usually take quite a bit of time with chunky books and ones that I want to do research with as I read. I have googled so much about Richard and Anne while reading this one. It was a major history lesson for me.
I really like the favorable way Richard was portrayed. The more I read, the more I could tell, he was given the bad deal in history, and some of the things he was accused of doing likely weren't done by him, or weren't done any differently by any other member of royalty at that time. And that play by William Shakespeare...well its not at all accurate and Richard's short period of time as king should really have him painted as a good king.
My heart ached for him most of the time.
If you are looking for a great read and have an interest in UK history, this is your book.
Richard III isn't one of the royals I've read much about, so I dove into this book straight away. It took me awhile to finish it, because I have a very short attention span these days, but oh was it worth it. Anne has a great flair for bringing these historical figures to life again, and making them seem much more human than any history book ever could.
Richard's story is very moving. I remember when they unearthed his remains in 2012. I vaguely remember reading about him in one of Philippa Gregory's books.
It took me a long time to finish this one, but as I tell people, I usually take quite a bit of time with chunky books and ones that I want to do research with as I read. I have googled so much about Richard and Anne while reading this one. It was a major history lesson for me.
I really like the favorable way Richard was portrayed. The more I read, the more I could tell, he was given the bad deal in history, and some of the things he was accused of doing likely weren't done by him, or weren't done any differently by any other member of royalty at that time. And that play by William Shakespeare...well its not at all accurate and Richard's short period of time as king should really have him painted as a good king.
My heart ached for him most of the time.
If you are looking for a great read and have an interest in UK history, this is your book.
November 6, 2019
Loved love this book!! Kept me engaged through the whole story until the end!
And I even thought about it afterwards. Too bad I couldn't travel back in time for real. I really would like to have met Richard the 3rd. Although I do have to admit there were some places that dug me down a bit but still I enjoyed it.
I learned quite a few things about Richard that I never knew about.
Anne Easter is a fantastic author and I've followed her for quite awhile now. So I was excited about getting this book!
She paints us a vivid detailed life of Richard the 3rd and I was able to imagine that I was in the book with him. I felt that I got to know him real well.
I wanted to scream at George a lot in the early years. In fact I even want to do some of the things to him he did to Dickon. Poor little feller. Family cannot be trusted!
I've felt often as Richard did. Friends generally treat you better than family does.
The cover is quite gorgeous! And of course the story matches the title quite well.
If you like the English Royal family then I invite you to read this tale about Richard.
Who knew that a car park would be built over top of your gravesite? Just creepy that's what! I'm surprised it's not haunted
My thanks to Historical Virtual Tours for a copy of this book. NO compensations were received. All opinions are my own.
And I even thought about it afterwards. Too bad I couldn't travel back in time for real. I really would like to have met Richard the 3rd. Although I do have to admit there were some places that dug me down a bit but still I enjoyed it.
I learned quite a few things about Richard that I never knew about.
Anne Easter is a fantastic author and I've followed her for quite awhile now. So I was excited about getting this book!
She paints us a vivid detailed life of Richard the 3rd and I was able to imagine that I was in the book with him. I felt that I got to know him real well.
I wanted to scream at George a lot in the early years. In fact I even want to do some of the things to him he did to Dickon. Poor little feller. Family cannot be trusted!
I've felt often as Richard did. Friends generally treat you better than family does.
The cover is quite gorgeous! And of course the story matches the title quite well.
If you like the English Royal family then I invite you to read this tale about Richard.
Who knew that a car park would be built over top of your gravesite? Just creepy that's what! I'm surprised it's not haunted
My thanks to Historical Virtual Tours for a copy of this book. NO compensations were received. All opinions are my own.
November 17, 2019
An amazing read and highly recommended to all you Richard III fans the best book this year
January 7, 2022
Passionate narration of a passionate novel about a kind, maligned king
The English actor Chris Humphreys brings 15th century England astonishingly to life and with it, the heroic man who would become Richard III, in his vivid narration of THIS SON OF YORK. Richard of York has been poorly presented over the centuries since Shakespeare’s historical play took the political side of the Tudors who had killed him. Richard’s reign was brief: only two years in his early thirties. Worldwide interest in him was rekindled in 2012 when his proven remains were discovered under a carpark in Leicester where he had been buried in a lost abbey after falling in the battle of Bosworth.
Chris Humphreys is perfect to narrate this story: with his shaping of sentences and scenes, he evokes the tenderness of the young Richard who watches the world through lost friends, dying soldiers, his bullying older brother, his beloved scamp of a dog and faithful nursemaid, his adored father who is too often away and his exquisite, brave mother. Childhood rivalries becomes serious issues between young men as older brothers grow, die tragically, marry unwisely, and betray; slowly, inexorably, the young Richard progresses from being the scrappy last of four heirs to the English throne to taking his place as king. And then the old enemies of his father, the Lancasters, return to brutally unseat him.
Richard’s reign was just two dramatic years though people can’t stop arguing about the rights and wrongs of it for well over five hundred more. The unforgettable story is excellently told through the author’s writing and the narrator’s considerable skill in bringing the many players to dispute and love and fight again in this Audible reading.
The English actor Chris Humphreys brings 15th century England astonishingly to life and with it, the heroic man who would become Richard III, in his vivid narration of THIS SON OF YORK. Richard of York has been poorly presented over the centuries since Shakespeare’s historical play took the political side of the Tudors who had killed him. Richard’s reign was brief: only two years in his early thirties. Worldwide interest in him was rekindled in 2012 when his proven remains were discovered under a carpark in Leicester where he had been buried in a lost abbey after falling in the battle of Bosworth.
Chris Humphreys is perfect to narrate this story: with his shaping of sentences and scenes, he evokes the tenderness of the young Richard who watches the world through lost friends, dying soldiers, his bullying older brother, his beloved scamp of a dog and faithful nursemaid, his adored father who is too often away and his exquisite, brave mother. Childhood rivalries becomes serious issues between young men as older brothers grow, die tragically, marry unwisely, and betray; slowly, inexorably, the young Richard progresses from being the scrappy last of four heirs to the English throne to taking his place as king. And then the old enemies of his father, the Lancasters, return to brutally unseat him.
Richard’s reign was just two dramatic years though people can’t stop arguing about the rights and wrongs of it for well over five hundred more. The unforgettable story is excellently told through the author’s writing and the narrator’s considerable skill in bringing the many players to dispute and love and fight again in this Audible reading.
October 25, 2022
Anne Easter Smith takes advantage of all the current research on Richard III to try to bring to life a more detailed picture of the (in)famous king.
The biggest emphasis is what it might have been like, physically and mentally, for Richard to live with the scoliosis we now all know he suffered from. She describes the pain, the attempts he made to compensate for it with clothes, armor and exercises, and also how he might have processed it. She suggests he might have feared he had done something to offend God, an all too likely conclusion in that time period. (Indeed, even today people often think a disease or disorder must be because we did something wrong.)
For most of the book Richard is worried about what God thinks of him, and takes on a lot of guilt, both for things he did as well as others. This is quite the morose Richard, in sharp contrast to the more romanticized portrait of the late 20th century.
She glosses over some of the more harsh parts of Richard's life, such as some of the times he used his position to push through some vicious real estate deals, but does work to square the circle of how he could have illegitimate children and still have such a reputation as a prude. I think the suggestion of one mistress rather than several works here, as well as the all too human suggestion that he sincerely loved both mothers of his children.
The narration is firmly removed from the 3rd POV of Richard, occasionally commenting on his scoliosis, DNA, future reputation, etc, which can be disrupting, but I liked that we stick with Richard throughout, instead of a bunch of characters.
Overall, it can get a little tedious in places as once again Richard navel gazes about how awful he is, but a well-done re-examination of the controversial king.
August 21, 2020
I saw the author speak about this book and it looked interesting enough to give it a try, even though books about English royalty are not normally things I read. So I began page 1 with not much knowledge of Richard III or any preconceptions from Shakespeare's play or other propaganda that helped support the Tudor family's claim to the throne.
The story was interesting and I think Anne Easter Smith did a good job of helping us to see Richard as a human being. He had some honorable qualities and often fate led to him doing things he really didn't want to do, or that were horrible. Looking now at a general biography of him online, I think the author did a good job of weaving known facts in with some conjecture to make the story compelling. From her presentation about the book and her obvious keen fascination with Richard III, I was a little leary of her making him out as a saint, but that did not happen. I found him to be a well rounded person very much affected by his times and events in his life. I like that she put in little bits about the location and verification of his skeleton in 2012 and what that was able to add to his story, especially the pain he would have had from the severe scoliosis he had and the high levels of alcohol he consumed during his reign.
At times I felt distracted by her shifting between points of view during the telling, since so much of it was in Richard's POV, but overall I found the story to be well written and engaging, able to immerse the reader in the time period.
The story was interesting and I think Anne Easter Smith did a good job of helping us to see Richard as a human being. He had some honorable qualities and often fate led to him doing things he really didn't want to do, or that were horrible. Looking now at a general biography of him online, I think the author did a good job of weaving known facts in with some conjecture to make the story compelling. From her presentation about the book and her obvious keen fascination with Richard III, I was a little leary of her making him out as a saint, but that did not happen. I found him to be a well rounded person very much affected by his times and events in his life. I like that she put in little bits about the location and verification of his skeleton in 2012 and what that was able to add to his story, especially the pain he would have had from the severe scoliosis he had and the high levels of alcohol he consumed during his reign.
At times I felt distracted by her shifting between points of view during the telling, since so much of it was in Richard's POV, but overall I found the story to be well written and engaging, able to immerse the reader in the time period.
September 21, 2020
This was a masterpiece. After reading all of Anne Easter Smith's book, I knew the calibre of writing to expect. Historical fiction at its best. Richard is a complex character and I like that she shows that while he might try to be moral he is not perfect (nor does he ever claim to be).
The historical events unfold and we get to see the potential emotions and motivations. This book incorporated Kate Haute, Margeret and Grace in a refreshing way. The previous stories were woven in and I appreciated that. I also loved the interaction between Dickon and his father (or any time Richard had a chance to be with his children).
One of my favourite parts of this book, is how it treated Anne Neville. She is in other books but never as the focus. Here we see a strong, loyal and dedicate woman. Her story is a hard one and intertwined with the man she loved.
It was also interesting that evidence from the historical forensics on Richard was used to develop his character further. We now know the extent of his scoliosis and that he had started to drink during his reign.
Obviously this story doesn't end happily ever after. Nevertheless, it a beautiful story and I'm glad I read it.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction. I don't think it is necessary to read the other books to enjoy this one but there is overlap to enjoy.
The historical events unfold and we get to see the potential emotions and motivations. This book incorporated Kate Haute, Margeret and Grace in a refreshing way. The previous stories were woven in and I appreciated that. I also loved the interaction between Dickon and his father (or any time Richard had a chance to be with his children).
One of my favourite parts of this book, is how it treated Anne Neville. She is in other books but never as the focus. Here we see a strong, loyal and dedicate woman. Her story is a hard one and intertwined with the man she loved.
It was also interesting that evidence from the historical forensics on Richard was used to develop his character further. We now know the extent of his scoliosis and that he had started to drink during his reign.
Obviously this story doesn't end happily ever after. Nevertheless, it a beautiful story and I'm glad I read it.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction. I don't think it is necessary to read the other books to enjoy this one but there is overlap to enjoy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 18, 2021
I threw the last book I tried by this author across the room after one page. It was full of hideously clunky expository writing like “Margaret, third daughter of Richard Duke of York, asked her mother: ‘could you please explain our direct line of descent from Edward III again?”
This book is slightly better. Easter Smith is obsessed with Richard III. Good, so am I. She is at her best in her straight historical writing. She is an apologist for him (unlike the very good recent history, The Brothers York, which made clear what horrible rulers as well as horrible men Edward IV and his brothers were). She blames the Duke of Buckingham for the murders of 12 year old Edward V and his 10 year old brother but even she can’t explain away Richard’s usurpation based on their supposed illegitimacy. To Easter Smith, Richard is a tragic hero: a capable medieval administrator and soldier who got caught up in the hideously dysfunctional family politics of England in the late 15th century. As that seems likely enough, the book succeeds in summarising Richard’s life from the most sympathetic possible perspective. Would I recommend it to anyone who isn’t totally into the War of the Roses? Hell, no.
This book is slightly better. Easter Smith is obsessed with Richard III. Good, so am I. She is at her best in her straight historical writing. She is an apologist for him (unlike the very good recent history, The Brothers York, which made clear what horrible rulers as well as horrible men Edward IV and his brothers were). She blames the Duke of Buckingham for the murders of 12 year old Edward V and his 10 year old brother but even she can’t explain away Richard’s usurpation based on their supposed illegitimacy. To Easter Smith, Richard is a tragic hero: a capable medieval administrator and soldier who got caught up in the hideously dysfunctional family politics of England in the late 15th century. As that seems likely enough, the book succeeds in summarising Richard’s life from the most sympathetic possible perspective. Would I recommend it to anyone who isn’t totally into the War of the Roses? Hell, no.
January 7, 2022
The audio edition of This Son of York by Anne Smith had me from the start. Her meticulous attention to detail in recounting the life and times of Richard the third is unparalleled . The incorporated news of the discovery of his body adds another dimension to the tale which I found to be a nice addition to this historical fiction. Contrary to the many maligned interpretations, I was left with the view of Richard as a very caring and deeply thoughtful and pious man who was always motivated by what would be best for England and not by his own ambitions.
I was happy to find that the author brought Kate from her first novel back into this book and completed her and Richard's illegitimate children's story. I also found her take on the disappearance of his nephews in the Tower interesting and plausible.
The narrator in this audio edition was the perfect voice to read Anne's story. I love audio books and have often been terribly disappointed by the narrator and stopped listening because of the wrong voice but not in this case--his voice kept me completely engaged and definitely enhanced the story.
I highly recommend this audio edition of This Son of York.
I was happy to find that the author brought Kate from her first novel back into this book and completed her and Richard's illegitimate children's story. I also found her take on the disappearance of his nephews in the Tower interesting and plausible.
The narrator in this audio edition was the perfect voice to read Anne's story. I love audio books and have often been terribly disappointed by the narrator and stopped listening because of the wrong voice but not in this case--his voice kept me completely engaged and definitely enhanced the story.
I highly recommend this audio edition of This Son of York.
November 17, 2019
The book is told from Richard’s point of view and covers his life from childhood to his death.
This was the first book I’ve read from the author, even though I own a couple. Overall, I liked the book, but I wasn’t a huge fan of the characterization of Richard. He just came off as whiny and without backbone and it grew old very soon. I like Richard III but too often he’s described either just too good or either very bad like a Disney character or something. I like something in the between.
Every chapter starts with a quote from Philippa Langley, who was present during the whole research process for Richard’s bones. I found those quotes unnecessary, but I seem to be in minority with this so…
All this being said, I did enjoy the book even if it may sound like I didn’t. It also made me realize that I haven’t read a book about Richard for so long.
This was the first book I’ve read from the author, even though I own a couple. Overall, I liked the book, but I wasn’t a huge fan of the characterization of Richard. He just came off as whiny and without backbone and it grew old very soon. I like Richard III but too often he’s described either just too good or either very bad like a Disney character or something. I like something in the between.
Every chapter starts with a quote from Philippa Langley, who was present during the whole research process for Richard’s bones. I found those quotes unnecessary, but I seem to be in minority with this so…
All this being said, I did enjoy the book even if it may sound like I didn’t. It also made me realize that I haven’t read a book about Richard for so long.
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January 9, 2022 I am an avid listener of books and found myself entranced by the story. The narrator, Chris Humphreys, is animated, clear and articulate, and his British accent lends authenticity to the story. Anyone who perceives themselves as an Anglophile should read the Wars of the Roses series by Anne Easter Smith. The Son of York, the 6th and final book on this series, continues to demonstrate the author’s vast knowledge of England’s royal history. She artfully peppers history with creative fictional twists that both captivate the reader and brings the characters to life. The reader can identify how the struggles, insecurities, and demons mold Richard’s life, culminating to his unlikely ascension to the throne and the controversy and betrayal that follows. I strongly recommend the audio version of this book to anyone interested in English historical fiction.
January 11, 2022
Ms Smith has woven fascinating tale of the very complicated life of Richard III. Her story covers most of Richard’s life and well illustrates how his character may have developed to influence the decisions he made. Ms Smith is known for her careful research and it is truly reflected in the fascinating details presented in her tale. Also, the discovery of Richard’s remains and the subsequent medical findings, adds yet another layer in explaining who he really may have been. I had previously read the print copy of this book but “heard” so much more of the story in the audio version, without the distractions that I sometimes experience when reading. “This Son of York” is the final book in Ms. Smith’s York series and, I think, brings Richard’s story full circle. I wholeheartedly recommend this audio book.
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