Unfortunately, I can't say too much about the plot of this story without giving major plot points away, which I would never want to do. Let's just say this isn't your typical romance, either. There's more than one wrench thrown into the Fenella/Adam situation, and that kept me interested through the entire novel. There's also danger, scandal, and a bit of bloodshed - seriously, this book has a lot going on!
The main story focuses on a Catholic plot against Queen Elizabeth I - you guessed it, involving Mary Queen of Scots, although she isn't a character in the novel. Instead, we see the background of the plots to take down the Protestant English Queen, as well as the movements and plans from others to prevent the plot from destroying Elizabeth. I really have to give Barbara Kyle points for creativity here - this is definitely a complex plot.
I'll admit I had a little bit of a hard time following the story at times. I think part of that may have to do with the fact that I hadn't read Kyle's previous novels, where we (I'm sure) become more intimately acquainted with the Thornleigh family. Instead, I found myself struggling to remember which characters were which, and as this novel spans a lot of different angles from a lot of different characters, names and specific personalities posed a bit of a challenge. Keep that in mind if you pick this one up - either try to read her other novels first, or be aware that you will have to pay attention to the little details!
All in all, it was a good read. I'd encourage anyone who's interested in yet another unique Tudor story to pick it up and give it a go. Its publication date is set for June, so keep it on your radar and snatch it up as soon as it hits shelves. Then, let us all know what you think!!
In case you're interested, here's what other authors have said about "The Queen's Exiles"…
- "Barbara Kyle owes me two nights of sleep for writing such an enthralling book." -Christine Trent, author of "Lady of Ashes
- "An exquisitely crafted escape to another place and time, a thoroughly enjoyable read by an author at the very top of her craft." -Diane Haeger, author of "I, Jane"
- "A brilliant book - a page-turner of a thriller with a backbone of love and loyalty in treacherous Tudor times… "The Queen's Exiles" is impeccably researched and beautifully written." -Deborah Swift, author of "The Gilded Lily"