I was blown away by this book. Simple, everyday living by a local parapalegic, living in my own neighborhood. It is told with honesty, dignity and self deprecating humor.
It's been a very long time since I enjoyed a
medieval-set romance. It's difficult for an author to create a world that
doesn't ring completely false, while still writing characters that are
sympathetic and enjoyable to the modern eye. By His Majesty's Grace is a great
blending of characters, history, and intrigue - and while I was initially a
little on the fence over whether I liked it or REALLY liked it, I've found that
I miss being immersed in its world. It's a rare book indeed that can make me
feel that way, so I feel quite certain it’s worth the recommendation.
Set amongst the tumultuous court of Henry VII, "Grace" gives us the
story of two people who are put together at a king's whim: one, a bride who is
caught between a rock and a hard place - she doesn't wish to be married, but her
step-brother is downright nasty and dangerous; the other a battle-hardened
base-born man who longs for a bit of softness and familiarity in his life. Blake
balances mental longing and lusting brilliantly, and I very much enjoyed that
though the heroine falls in lust with her hero, she doesn't equate that to
ever-lasting love. Their love for each other grows naturally with the story, and
surprises each of them.
All in all, it is a sweet tale made better by a
good sense of place and history. I even found myself wanting to learn more about
the early Tudor court when I was done reading! --Sarah L.