Rated of 5
by Carol G. (Little Egg Harbor, NJ) The Tudor Secret
As a lover of historical fiction and mystery, this book fit the bill. I have not read this author previously but look forward to the continuing books in this series. The book was enjoyable, and with plenty of twists. Although a complicated period of history, the author brought the characters to life in such a way for the readers to discover a world apart from the royalty of that time. I also plan to read The Other Queen.
Rated of 5
by Barbara O. (Maryland heights, US) The Tudor Secret
The author writes an engaging story seamlessly fitting in a fictional character to historical fact. There are a lot of recognized authors in this genre and it's my opinion that C.W. Gortner deserves to be among them.
Brendan Prescott is an inexperienced young man, forced to grow up quickly in a short period of time. He's an engaging hero, hapless and lucky with good supportive characters both real and fictional that give credence to the tale. Underlying the main story is a believable premise that sets the stage for the birth of the earliest known "secret agents", the famous Cecil and Walsingham so important to Queen Elizabeth during her reign.
Highly entertaining, recommend especially to lovers of good historical fiction.
Rated of 5
by Maggie P. (Redmond, WA) Enjoyable, but predictable
I had a difficult time getting into the story, but after the first couple chapters it was a quick read. I loved that it was written in first person prospective. I think that gave it the intrigue it needed to be a good mystery. I would recommend this for book club because it gives several areas for debate and discussion. The author also provides nine reading group questions at the end of the book to help.
Rated of 5
by Deborah Fun but Flawed
I love historical fiction but am not a big fan of mysteries, so I wasn't sure how well I would like The Tudor Secret. Overall, it was a fast and fun read, but the novel has many flaws that make it less enjoyable than it might otherwise be. The pacing was uneven and the narrative often repetitious, and Brendan's quick admittance into high circles was unbelievable. For example, the same day he arrives at court, having just been raised from his position as stable boy to valet, he strolls the garden alone with Princess Elizabeth. It just wouldn't happen. I also found the love affair weak: once minute Kate treats Brendan like a foolish boy and the next they are romping in bed. Worst of all for me was the two-layered "secret" as to why Brendan's parentage had been hidden. I know that it's fiction, but even fiction has to seem like it could be true. Neither what Cecil tells Brendan nor what he intuits for himself could ever have happened. (I can't say why without giving away the plot, but trust me, a scholar of the period: it just wouldn't have happened.) This wasn't a terrible book, just nothing I'd recommend to anyone who knows a bit about the period.
Rated of 5
by Marci G. (Sicklerville, New Jersey) Welcome back to historical fiction
In my 30's, I read everything I could about Henry VIII, his wives and children. Until recently I stayed away from this genre. My interest was piqued after reading the synopsis of The Tudor Secret. I loved it! I was invested in the characters, real and those created by the author. The recommended reading, info about the author, historical timeline etc.. Were a nice addition. Looking forward to the sequel.
Rated of 5
by Barbara B. (New Bern, NC) THE TUDOR SECRET
I loved the book. I found the story fast paced with page after page of intrigue, excitement and love. At first I thought the "secret" may be a liaison between Brendan Prescott and the Virgin Queen Elizabeth. However quickly I found this historical fiction novel a thrilling spy story.
The plot surrounds the successor to sickly King Edward VI who dies after being poisoned and the mystery surrounding Brendan’s birth and birthright. I have always been interested in the history of the seemingly sinister Tudor reign. The Tudor Secret did not disappoint me. I would recommend this story as a thrilling spy novel whether you are familiar with the history of the Tudors or not. I look forward to reading the next book in the series of the rise of Brendan Prescott as a secret spymaster for Elizabeth I.
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of 5
by Carol G. (Little Egg Harbor, NJ) 
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by Barbara O. (Maryland heights, US) 
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by Deborah 
