The precarious period between Richard III and Henry VII is the subject of The Pretender. Pretenders to the English throne are shifting allegiances. Who is the true monarch? However, what I admired most about Jo Harkins's writing was how full and genuine Lambert Simnel became, rather than merely completing a shadowy historical figure. Harkin's meticulous research ensures that the suspense, humour, and mystery are maintained while adhering to established facts. An absolutely amazing historical fiction book.

A young boy John is taken from the farm where he lives with his family to be groomed as Edward Earl of Warwick, son of the Duke of Clarence (brother of Edward IV) to challenge Henry VII for the throne of England.
The book follows John as the Yorkist rebels seek to take the throne and his subsequent capture to work in the kitchens of the King.
A retelling of the story surrounding one of the pretenders at the time when Henry was looking to shore up his shakly hold on the throne of Englang.
A good read for anyone who likes medieval fictional history.

The Pretender by Jo Harkin is a captivating and imaginative historical fiction novel that reimagines the life of Lambert Simnel, a young boy who was raised in obscurity to protect himself from the political intrigue and dangers of the English court. In the late 15th century, Lambert was thrust into a high-stakes game of power when he was claimed to be the rightful heir to the English throne and briefly crowned King Edward VI, despite his true identity being a mystery.

Set against the backdrop of a crumbling Plantagenet dynasty, the novel centres around John Collan, a peasant boy in 1480, whose quiet life is upended by the arrival of a stranger from London. He learns that he is not the son of a humble villager but rather the long-lost son of the Duke of Clarence, hidden away to protect him from the dangerous machinations of Richard III. As John embarks on a journey of self-discovery, he is sent to Oxford, trained in court etiquette, and groomed to take on his royal destiny.

Harkin weaves a tale of political intrigue, shifting allegiances, and the tension of living under the looming threat of death, as John (Lambert) is forced to face the stark reality of his future: either claim the throne or perish in battle. His path intersects with Joan, the sharp-witted and politically astute daughter of his Irish patrons, who becomes both an ally and a romantic interest. Their alliance is central to the novel, as their contrasting fates and political acumen form a compelling dynamic.

The narrative is rich in historical detail, and while it takes liberties with the real-life events surrounding Lambert Simnel, the fictionalized portrayal of his rise and fall adds an emotional layer to the story. The blend of historical accuracy with artistic license creates a vivid, immersive experience, bringing to life the dangers and complexities of court life, the fierce ambitions of the time, and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters.

Harkin’s portrayal of Joan is particularly engaging, as she is a character who defies convention—strong-willed, manipulative, and politically savvy, with a moral compass that can shift depending on her interests. Her partnership with Lambert adds depth to the plot, and their complex relationship enhances the novel's emotional weight.

Though The Pretender is based on the life of a historical figure shrouded in mystery, the novel thrives as a work of fiction, offering a fresh and exciting perspective on one of the lesser-known figures in English history. Readers who enjoy richly layered historical fiction with strong, multifaceted characters and a touch of romance will find The Pretender a compelling and rewarding read. Harkin has crafted a vivid portrait of an alternate history, exploring the fragility of power, the allure of the throne, and the human cost of ambition.

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Suspenseful and sharp political hist-fic that left no spave for breath. Believable world building that felt immediate and gritty. Great characters and a plot that lands like a punch. Highly recommend

A book that made me laugh and cry from the beginning to the very end, I felt like a part of this world, of the political schemes, of treasons and betrayals, of plotting and evil. And between all of this there was love and humility that were sacrificed in the name of revenge. It’s now one of my favorite historical stories I’ve read, the 15th century England feels so real, and dirty, and posh, and elusive, and magical and horrifying at the same time. Harkin’s writing is on another plain of existence, sharp and fast and with no sparing of your feeling, raw and honest; punch in the gut of your love for these characters. Historical fiction in its finest. I am sure when this book gets released it will be a phenomenon.

Huge Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury Publishing for providing me with the ARC of this masterpiece.