New Review: Jennifer Blake’s BY HIS MAJESTY’S GRACE – Worthy Medieval Read from Tudor England

Set in 1486 when Henry Tudor was king of England, Lady Isabel Milton is commanded to wed Sir Randall of Braesford, as reward for his loyalty to his king. Isabel would be wed by now but it seems all the suitors for her and her two sisters have been dying off. Isabel, wanting to allow them to stay single, perpetuates the myth of the Graydon curse, that only a man who loves them can claim them without mishap. All potential suitors are put off and the girls stay free until Sir Randall who doesn’t believe in the curse.

Rand is under a shadow, accused of murdering the child of the king’s French mistress. There is much court intrigue and politics and various agendas working as Isabel helps to sort out the real facts while Rand is held under house arrest (in the Tower of London).

Blake is a pro and none of her stories lack a good plot or historical detail or interesting characters. This one has all of it: clever twists, a rich medieval feel and enough history to make you feel like you were there (and don’t forget to read her Author’s Note). King Henry is a character, as is his wife, Elizabeth of York, and there are interesting tidbits about each.

I have my favorites among Blake’s work, of course, and while this one may not be on the top of that list, it is a very worthy medieval that will satisfy the historical romance lover’s craving for a virile, strong hero, a clever heroine and a tapestry of fast moving events. I recommend it.

This is book 1 of the Three Graces of Graydon trilogy. BY GRACE POSSESSED and SEDUCED BY GRACE follow.