Succession by Livi Michael

Final Rating: 4.6/5

A compelling title that is more than what it seems

   Don't judge this book by its cover. Succession may seem a benign rendering of history told by the dual perspectives of Margaret of Anjou and Margaret Beaufort purporting all the surrenders of romance, fettered views of the rise and fall of the Lancaster and York houses concentrating on frivolous trappings and precious else during 15th-century England but Succession by Livi Michael is actually a compelling tableau of history that is sure to excite history enthusiasts or those who appreciate a brilliantly delivered story. Presented in a distinct clever style Succession combines imaginative dialogue, rich description, a touch of lyrical prose and brilliantly depicted historical events to weave a tale chocked full of: premeditated treachery, all consuming greed, loss of innocence, murder most foul and the strong personalities that dominated the sides of the dynastic Wars of the Roses.

   Whether the curious reader is unfamiliar with the years or events that led to and followed the uneven rise and fall of the houses of Lancaster and York that historians delight in debating to this day, they are sure to be swept into a convincing tale that not only focuses on views of the 15th-century court but also pulls brief narration from the common man and woman. Machinations that consumed minds and corrupted hearts and its further consequences are shared with the reader in a concise fashion that fully captures the monumental events that affected the rich, poor and left a country torn with loyalty to either the red rose (for the house of Lancaster) or the white rose (for the house of York). Characters are divided by their houses (at times even representing both), cast in multifaceted light and dark shadows of personality and alliances and are heralded in chapters with the red or white rose insignia to aid the reader in understanding the character the chapter focuses on. Chapters are also introduced in a scholarly fashion with a selection from a chronicle, register, calendar roll or ballad that then is spun into a tableau of that event for the entertainment of the reader following a central character and continuing the time frame of events cleverly moving the story along without the need to backtrack and explain a journey or lesser battle. Although, Succession could even at times confuse those familiar with the history, events and central figures and even share in excess certain scenes and over dramatize at times- this is still a compelling title that is sure to entertain and encourage further study. If the reader desires more, it is clear Succession explains only part one of the events of the Wars of the Roses and there is still much to be told.

-read and purchased on kindle 

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