What do readers think of The Tudor Secret by C. W. Gortner? Write your own review.

I really enjoy reading about this time period, and I'm always excited when a new piece is published about the Tudor family. I found parts of this mystery entertaining, but not necessarily interesting. The plot felt both stale and rushed, and by Chapter 17 I had it figured out. His book about Catherine de Medici was much better!

The Tudor Secret by C.W. Gortner is a fun read but not a great read. As a historical novel it has a good bit of fact and enough fiction to keep the reader interested. However, the fiction is predictable and about mid-way through the book I found myself skimming pages to find a twist or “aha moment.” The basic premise lends itself to suspense and intrigue but the novel fails to produce what could have been a unique experience.

Although fast-paced and interesting, this book was lacking in depth and character development. I did enjoy learning more about the historical figures of the period, particularly about William Cecil. It was written in the first person from the viewpoint of a young man, aged 20, and for this reason I recommend it for that age group.

A Medieval tale of mystery and intrigue set in and around the courts of dark, dank London town. Gortner's novel moves quickly and vividly conveying the smells, sights and sounds of London in and around the 1550s. The opening scenes were very enjoyable, but as the story progressed it became rather predictable and reminded me of the TV series Survivor or better yet life in corporate America today. (Maybe rightly so.) I enjoy historical fiction, but would not recommend this as it just wasn't rich and filling enough for me. Entertaining, but not a great read.