I liked Jeri Westerson’s Crispin Guest medieval noir mysteries. However, I read the first in her King’s Fool series, and now the third, Rebellious Grace. This series, set during the reign of Henry VIII, is filled with politics, court fashion, and customs. And, Will Somers, the king’s jester, is the primary character. I like Will, and his way of investigating. Courtiers realize he makes a good inquisitor, and even the king turns to him for answers.

By 1536, Henry VIII is married to Jane Seymour. He’s turned away from the Catholic Church, an action that has divided his court and the country. Henry has to deal with rebellion, but, first he has to deal with a murder in the corridors of the palace. Geoffrey Payne, a servant in the queen’s household, has been found with his throat cut. Two weeks later, that same man’s body is removed from its grave and disemboweled. That’s when Henry tasks Will with finding the killer.

Because it’s the Christmas season, Will has time on his hands to investigate. With the help of his wife, Marion, and his lover, Nicholas, he questions people in the queen’s household as well as others in the castle. By the time he’s eliminated his primary suspects, he realizes his murderers could be too high up in the palace hierarchy for him to accuse.

Westerson does a masterful job incorporating the holidays, the murder investigation, and the primary political problem of the time, “The Pilgrimage of Grace”, in which 9000 people marched, demanding the monasteries and the Catholic Church be restored. While all the issues blend smoothly in the story, it’s helpful to have her Afterword in which she discusses the facts and people involved.

I like Will, and his quiet, but witty way of questioning people. He has access to the entire palace, as the King’s Fool, but he also knows his place. And, he fears for his position, as everyone does. I’m looking forward to the next book that takes place during Henry VIII’s short marriage to Anne of Cleves.

A nail biter to the very end. What I really enjoyed about this book was although it takes place entirely at King Henry VIII's court during his marriage to Jane Seymour - it doesn't rehash everything we already know about this. It primarily focuses on Will Somers (the King's Fool) , Jane (the King's Fool) and their family and acquaintances. Great writing and storyline - I will definitely be reading more! Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

Jen Westerson’s book was everything I look for in an historical novel:
. . . A great immersion into the period, and a better understanding of some aspect aspect of history after reading it;
. . . An interesting puzzle; and
… . Compelling characters.

Henry VIII came to life as a nuanced person, not simply a domineering political animal.
And, the principal character, Will Sommers, is a wonderful “ guide” to court life during Henry’s tumultuous reign.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book.