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The Crimson Crown - by Edith Layton
ISBN: 0451402278 Penguin Group (USA)
A king's throne at stake, a woman's heart at risk
Summary
Handsome adventurer Lucas Lovat was an instrument of the King's will. And
the King was Henry VII of England, who would do anything and destroy anyone
to keep his hold on the sceptre of power.
Beautiful Lady Megan Baswell did not know that Lucas was commanded to use
his sensual charms to make her his pawn. Just as he did not dream that she
was unlike any of his countless conquests. But as they played a dangerous
game of desire and deception with each other, they were swept up in unexpected
passion beyond control...and caught in a tug-of-war between their opposing
loyalties and overwhelming love...
From the Critics
Publishers Weekly
Layton's (Surrender to Love) novel of late 15th-century England
is an overburdened effort to construct an alternate fate for the ``two unlucky
boy princes'ix '--Edward and Richard Plantagenet--competitors for the throne
who were supposedly murdered in the Tower of London. After eight years of
spying throughout Europe for Henry VII, Lucas Lovat returns to England only
to be caught up in the king's continuing attempt to protect his throne from
rival claimants. Most dangerous is Perkin Warbeck, who says he's Richard
Plantagenet and may still have a secret, devoted following. Lucas knows
better, as he himself is Edward Plantagenet (his brother, Richard, is Henry's
right-hand monk). But he accepts his assignment to ingratiate himself with
Warbeck's wife, Lady Katherine, and her attendants in hopes of uncovering
possible intrigues. While there, Lucas is caught in the spell of Megan Baswell,
attendant to Lady Katherine and another of Henry's many spies. Plots, machinations
and identities are revealed at last; none have the spark needed to raise
this tale above the ordinary.
Romantic Times
Based on the mystery surrounding the death of the Little Princes by their
uncle, The Crimson Crown is Edith Layton's crowning achievement.
Once again, Edith Layton transports readers into a lavish tapestry of richly detailed portraits of real historical personages. With vibrantly colored threads of mystery (Lucas's identity will be one surprise), sensuality, and heartwarming and tender romance, Ms. Layton cooks up a sumptuous feast fit for fans of Roberta Gellis, Anita Mills, and Rosemary Jarman. Historical buffs will savor each word like a tasty Christmas confection.
© 2005 Edith Layton. All rights reserved.
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