Reviews for  Lady of the Roses
  Love & War  ·  Crown of Destiny  ·  Fall from Grace


Reviews for Lady of the Roses

* Printer friendly PDF file for Lady of the Roses

“Worth has much to offer her readers: great storylines, fascinating characters, and just the right historical touch. “Lady of the Roses” may be set in the 1400s, but its story and telling are contemporary and easily enjoyed by the readers of 2008.”
~~ Christine Zibas,  read the entire review at  BookPleasures.com

“Isobel . . .  is a most perceptive and engaging witness to history. Isobel and John’s love story, and sixteen years of English history, culminating in the Battle of Barnet, are skillfully interwoven. Worth paints vivid, up-close portraits of many historical figures, among them Queen Marguerite, Elizabeth Woodville, and John Tiptoft, Isobel’s pious uncle, who is transformed by war into the Butcher of England... [H]er work rests on a firm foundation of historical accuracy. Both historical romance fans and those who are fascinated by this era will find much here to enjoy.”
~~ Phyllis T. Smith,  Historical Novel Review

“Sandra Worth threads together the most bittersweet love story since Romeo and Juliet.”
~~ J. Kaye Oldner, Revish

“I haven't been this drawn into a historical fiction about an unfamiliar time period since I read The Other Boleyn Girl. Philippa Gregory should watch her back...  Sandra Worth is coming on strong with her stories from the War of the Roses.”
~~ Sadie's Story Lines

“There are many love stories that readers can choose from, but few are as powerful as Lady of the Roses. The highest of praises go to author Worth for creating this beautiful literary work.”
~~ TCM Reviews

“This intense work of art brings life to English history during the times of the War of the Roses with as much rich vibrancy as the castle tapestries that are woven into the tale. A classic love story, and one that was likely the inspiration for many others that we know and cherish, Sir John Neville and Lady Isobel Ingoldesthorpe's tale is exquisitely bittersweet.  Dear Isobel, our narrator, becomes a cherished companion . . .  ”
~~ Heather Froeschl,  Book Review Journal

“[W]ritten so beautifully that I found myself tearful during the happy moments and downright crying through the pain. The characters came to life through Sandra Worh's words. I've mourned with them, laughed with them, and felt sorry when the story ended-- for I longed to know more of Sir John Neville and Isobel, his true Lady of the Roses.”
~~ C.P. Murphy's Random Thoughts

“Find time to read Ms. Worth’s latest masterpiece. You will find yourself swept up with two of the most memorable characters ever explored in print, John and Isobel Neville, in one of the saddest yet most momentous events that changed British history.”
~~ Lori J. Braunhardt for the Richard III Society (U.S.)

“A love story written in the pages of history... All admirers of history, romance or fine literature will enjoy Sandra Worth's... thoroughly entertaining novel.”
~~ Donna Zapf, SingleTitles.com

“[B]eautifully written . . .  a well-versed writer.”
~~ Tristi Pinkston, Media Reviews

“John and Isobel remain trapped in the pages of history, Worth breathing new life into their in a novel of commitment that defies convention, a marriage based on love.”
~~ Luan Gaines/2007

“Worth's War of the Roses series has garnered well-deserved accolades due to the meticulous research that allows her to bring colorful historical characters and tumultuous eras to life. Rich descriptions, realistic dialogue and fascinating people thrust her story forward. Worth proves that history is as powerful as fiction. ”
~~ Kathe Robin, RT Rating:,  Romantic Times

“Sandra Worth has once again captured the tornado-whirling shifts of loyalty as England watches two mad women change the course of history, Marguerite d'Anjou - Henry VI's French queen - and later Elizabeth Woodville - Edward IV's beautiful wife. ...  Ms. Worth's singular talent lies in the masterful way she crafts plot and deftly presents an in depth, diverse set of historical characters whom the reader comes to deeply care about. Congratulations, Sandra Worth! Lady of the Roses is an unparalleled, beautiful, dire and memorable keeper in the top ranks of historical novels! What a treat!”
~~ Viviane Crystal,  www.crystalreviews.com

“Her hallmarks of meticulous research and excellent character development continue in this new story that pre-dates the trilogy. This book kept me up late, and I hated for it to end. LADY OF THE ROSES, like its predecessors, is A Perfect 10.”
~~ Jani Brooks, Romance Reviews Today

“A must have novel that I proudly give ten snowflakes to.”
~~ Snow's Place

“If you're a reader who enjoys history wrapped within a great love story, you won't be disappointed in Lady of the Roses.”
~~ Reece Herring

“Known for her terrific in depth historical saga, The Rose of York... Sandra Worth stays with the era providing a strong War of Roses tale. The story line is epic in scope using the fifteen years relationship between John and Isobel as a means to provide insight into England from 1456-1471.”
~~ Harriet Klausner







Reviews for the Rose of York: Love and War

‘This admirable historical novel belongs on the shelf of all true Ricardians next to “Daughter of Time.”  And I'm not saying this just because I wear my roses white and still refer to Henry VII as “that userper”!’

  ·  India Edghill, The Solander, Historical Novels Review



“Expounding an historical epic of honor and love during the time of the Wars of the Roses, The Rose Of York (Love & War) is both dramatic and evocative in its portrayal of struggling souls making the best choices they can in an unjust world. A deftly written, reader engaging, thoroughly entertaining and enthusiastically recommended historical novel which documents its author as a gifted literary talent.”

  ·  Midwest Book Review, June 2003



“Worth has done meticulous research… Though conversations and some incidents must of necessity be invented, she makes them seem so real that one agrees this must have been what they said, the way things happened.”

  ·  Myrna Smith, Reading Editor, Ricardian Register, Quarterly Publication of the U.S. Richard III Society, Inc. Vol. XXIII, No. 2



“This account of war, political intrigue, reversals of fortune, difficult choices, and death is interlaced with the romantic love story of Richard and Anne Neville, the daughter of Warwick the Kingmaker. Sandra Worth presents these historical figures in a compelling and believable manner. The action flows quickly and keeps your attention. This is one historical novel that will keep you entranced until the very end. Then you won’t be able to wait for the second book!”

  ·  About.com: Romantic Fiction: Guide Rating  – 
Reviewed by Daun Marrs




“...As the story evolves, the reader finds herself enmeshed in the grim realities of life in the mid 1400s, the politics that created kings (and queens) or led to their downfall ... The book makes each person familiar, someone you have known a long time ... (and) you can review the history of the times as though you were actually there, such is the writer's skill. If you enjoy history, romance and a good read, this book is for you.”

  ·   Patti Carmack, News Lifestyles Editor,
The Ponca City News, December 5th, 2004
read the complete review here



“If you liked the Plantagenet saga by Jean Plaidy, then try Sandra Worth ...  Both writers take us back to the tumultuous era known as the Wars of the Roses. They bring historical figures to life and devise plots and counterplots of royal intrigue as compelling as any high-tech thriller. Love & War is a delight for any historical lover.”

  ·  Flavia's Fan Forum BookTalk:
The ROMANTIC TIMES, December 2003



A Romantic Times November 2003 TOP PICK!

“The historical detail is marvelous. Worth's depiction of the troubled times, uncertainty of life and the portrayal of historical figures as multidimensional people with good intentions, bad decisions, greed, jealousy and goodness of heart will leave you wanting the next book immediately.”

  ·  Deborah Brent,
The Romantic Times BOOKclub, November 2003




“Love & War is an extraordinary epic . . .    Through Ms. Worth's clean, polished prose, a window is opened (of which the sights and sounds are magnificent) and from it, flow the voices of the anguished and the proud, the glorious and the damned, the just and the unjust.   Love & War is a history lesson to take to heart. Perhaps the highest compliment I can pay Ms. Worth, however, is my keen desire to learn more about Richard III, his perils, triumphs, sorrows, and regrets. This first book in Ms. Worth's Rose of York series, in fact, deserves a wealth of accolades for its very ambitious nature, and its balanced exploration of Richard, Duke of Gloucester, before he became king of a troubled kingdom.”

  ·   Reviewed by C.L. Jeffries
HeartStrings Reviews
Date Posted: April 3, 2003

     

For full review click here

*Notation by Heartstrings: “Exceptional Merit” is awarded to a novel of exceptionally high caliber or to a novel so utterly unique in plot, it sets a new standard in the romance genre.




“LOVE AND WAR is a tremendous look at the early days of Richard III. Instead of the Shakespearean depiction of a malevolent murderer, readers see a different side of the future monarch . . .   Sandra Worth points out that the times of his youth led to much of Richard's later actions including establishing legal principles that remain a major part of Anglo jurisprudence today. Thus fans of the era obtain strong insight into what shaped the man inside a fabulously written tale. This first entry in the Rose of York series is a victory for historical readers.”

  ·  Reviewed by Harriet Klausner,
The Best Reviews



‘Sandra Worth has crafted an historical fiction novel that is a true “classic.”  This reader avidly awaits the second novel in the Rose of York series, Crown of Destiny, to see what becomes of this hero, Richard,’  ‘  . . . the flower of men, To serve as model for the mighty world.’

  ·  Viviane Crystal,
Member Reviewers International Organization
see full review here



“With her debut novel, author Sandra Worth takes readers on an unforgettable journey through the life of Richard Plantagenet the Third ...   Ms. Worth is an extremely gifted writer with the ability to immerse her readers into the lives and world of her characters ...   The Rose of York: Love and War isn't historical fiction; it is a time machine ...   I know shall be placing this novel on my keeper shelf and anxiously await the remaining books.”

  ·  Reviewed by Sharyn McGinty,
In The Library Reviews, February 2004




“Ms. Worth chronicles brilliantly his (Richard's) all too brief childhood and the events and the people that molded him into the thoughtful and insightful young man he became. It is powerful; it is heartbreaking; and it is a beautifully told love story....   The historical aspects will give you insights that the casual historical fiction reader has probably never thought of, as I can surely attest to....   oh for the lovers of history, and for those looking forward to a most passionate story of love, this for you is a marvelous treat!...   Whether intentional or not, I found that the secondary romance between John Neville, Lord Montagu and his wife Isobel to be pure poetry... depicted so beautifully that it simply took my breath away. I am definitely looking forward to the next book in this planned trilogy and if the tone and finesse imbued in this, her debut novel is any indication of what to expect we are all in for a marvelous treat.”


  ·  Marilyn Rondeau
Official Reviewer for www.historicalromancewriters.com
February 2004
read the complete review here



“Beautifully written, LOVE AND WAR is a compelling beginning to Sandra Worth's The Rose of York series. Details of the period were researched meticulously, and a very credible portrayal of the much-maligned Richard will have doubters rethinking their opinions of him. I am more than ever in his corner after reading this fine novel, and I'm eagerly awaiting the rest of the series. Great writing coupled with an amazing story propelled this book into the Perfect 10 category.”

  ·  Reviewed by Jani Brooks,
Romance Reviews Today
read the full review here



“ . . .  Each character has the ability to leap from the pages of the book and into our minds and hearts . . .    With England split by war and violence Ms. Worth introduces the love story of Richard and Anne . . .   We begin to see Richard in a new light and to question past stories about this man who changed not only the history of England but has given us laws that are still the foundation of western society . . .   One finds the story wonderful in its historical content yet I find the human side of this man most intriguing. The personal look into his heart and soul as no one has ever done before will hold and captivate the reader. I totally enjoyed this book and eagerly await the next one in the series.”

  ·  Reviewed by Louise Riveiro-Mitchell
for The Road to Romance, December 7, 2003
read the review here



“This historical romance is the first in a series of three novels planned by the author, this one representing Richard III as a man much more sympathetic than the villain with whom Shakespeare has made most of us familiar . . .  In Worth’s well-researched version of the story, Richard is a hero.

. . .  The story is quite well-told, such an excellent read that I look forward to finding out what happens next to Worth’s good Richard III. Let’s hope Worth is a fast writer.”

  ·  C. Crenshaw for Fearless Reviews
read the complete review here



“I enjoyed the first volume of your book on Richard III enormously, partly because I learned so much about life lived in those times--so perilous, so painful, so changeable from moment to moment. I also met in your book a Richard III radically different from the one I have known all these years in Shakespeare's play. It was exciting to get a completely different view of him . . .   A huge and hugely interesting project.”

  ·  Dennis Huston, Ph.D.,
Rice University Professor of English Literature
Carnegie Mellon 1989 Professor of the Year



“FASCINATING.”

  ·  Anthony Cheetham,
author of The Life and Times of Richard III



“... Because his life has been distorted and twisted by his many detractors, Richard can best be reached through fiction. This book carries a clear and vivid description of him. I eagerly await the second and third volumes of this trilogy.”

  ·  Dale Summers, The Ricardian Register, quarterly publication of the Richard III Society, Vol. XXVIV No.1 (Spring 2004)



“This powerful book, impeccably written, with its tender love story and brilliant analysis of Richard III’s legacy, convinced me that Shakespeare completely misjudged this remarkable king who reformed the jury system. Not since ATLAS SHRUGGED have I been so deeply moved.”

  ·  Texas Author and Judge, the hon. Ramona John
See the book reviews at ramonajohn.com




“. . .   From minor to major, even from animal to human, Sandra Worth’s multi-cast of characters are skillfully drawn in an extremely well executed story. Whether it is a ship shuddering in a sudden sea squall, the flame of a torch on a night’s journey, or flashes of candle-lit jewels at the court of Edward IV, not forgetting the vivid, carefully crafted battle scenes permeating with the horror of hand to hand combat, Worth paints her medieval world in all its colour, as well as its unyielding dark harshness . . . .   a beautifully written novel, etched by a masterful storyteller.”

  ·  Wendy J. Dunn
Columnist and Author of DEAR HEART, HOW LIKE YOU THIS?,
WINNER OF THE ARIZONA BOOK AWARD
www.wendyjdunn.com



“Author Sandra Worth has an extraordinary achievement in her characterization of Richard. Reading it, I had the feeling of a living being whose mind I could touch . . .   The Rose of York: LOVE & WAR deservedly won the Authorlink Grand Prize in manuscript form.”

  ·  Joy Calderwood
Reviewer's Choice Reviews
Find the full review here



“This is a wonderful story of the Wars of the Roses . . .   told from a very unique perspective and doesn't spare anyone . . .   It is filled with evil and greed, as well as love and loyalty. This story shows a country pulled apart by civil war . . .   A deeply moving portrayal of this war and the principle characters involved . . .   definitely a book (that) I recommend all lovers of history read.”

  ·  Chere Gruver, Timeless Tales




“. . .   The reader will feel, as I did, that surely they can put the book down after the next chapter ends – but that won't be the case. They'll become so entrenched in the drama that time will catch them completely unaware. Though Sandra Worth follows the history texts, this novelization was balanced with cleverness and an eye for the romantic.”

Overall rating:
The Romance Studio
Sensuality rating: Mildly Sensual
Reviewer: Mary Ann Carman
See the full review here



Read additional Press reviews and interviews about
“The Rose of York: Love & War”  here



The following review was done for the former publisher of The Rose of York: Love & War before it was withdrawn from publication in May 2003. It appears in full here because Romance Reader Connection no longer re-posts archived reviews:

“THE ROSE OF YORK: LOVE & WAR is the first volume of a trilogy by Sandra Worth, featuring Richard III, the king much maligned in literature and history. Readers whose only familiarity with Richard is based on Shakespeare's hunchbacked villain will find themselves confronting a new image of this tragic figure.

England during the Wars of the Roses (representing the houses, or the families, of York and Lancaster) was a difficult place to be. The endless struggle for the throne resulted in changing monarchs and divided loyalties. Choosing the wrong side in any given battle could leave one friendless, if not headless, as capricious monarchs doled out retribution for slights and betrayals both real and imagined. Through it all, few had the courage of their convictions. One of those was Richard.

In Ms. Worth's story, Richard is handsome and serious, devoted to his beloved Anne, and torn between the call of his heart and loyalty to his brother. A younger son, Richard has been overshadowed all his life by his elder brothers and cousins. Less adept at battle, less powerful, less experienced, Richard's motto is Loyalty Binds Me, and his struggle to live up to his own code of honor is binding indeed. As Richard aligns himself with his brother, at great personal cost, he is repeatedly betrayed by others who take their promises lightly. Even so, he steadfastly maintains his integrity while never losing hope that one day, Anne might be his bride.

Richard is not completely whitewashed, however. Ms. Worth shows Richard's relationship with Katherine Haute, mother of his two children out of wedlock, as a diversion, a way for Richard to find solace while longing for Anne. Kate's pain is tangible, and readers will sympathize with her. Readers will also identify with Richard's feelings of helplessness, held hostage to the capricious whims of an overindulged monarch. Ms. Worth makes no concession to the faint of heart. THE ROSE OF YORK illustrates in gritty detail the squalor of fifteenth-century England, and the ruthless machinations and bloody battle of those who sough power and influence. Readers may find themselves confused by the lack of variety of characters' names, but since Ms. Worth's work is based on fact, she can hardly be blamed for the repetition of the most popular names of the era. Less shifting of characters' point of view would possibly alleviate some of this confusion.

THE ROSE OF YORK: LOVE & WAR ends with the birth of Richard's son by Anne. In that moment, Richard and Anne are bound by the strength of their love for each other and their child, but reader familiar with history will be all too poignantly aware that there are thorns ahead for this young family. Sandra Worth skillfully draws readers into Richard's story and leaves them longing for more.”

  ·  Reviewed by Mellanie Crowther
Romance Readers Connection








Reviews for the Rose of York: Crown of Destiny



Midwest Book Review
Small Press Bookwatch
“Reviewer's Choice”

With “The Rose Of York: Crown Of Destiny”, Canadian author Sandra Worth has penned the sequel to her outstanding historical novel “The Rose Of York: Love & War”. The second title in a planned trilogy, “Crown Of Destiny” is a dramatic retelling of Richard II and the murder of his royal nephews in the Tower of London. Court intrigue abounds as the late Edward IV's detested queen plots to usurp power, compelling Richard of Gloucester into decisions that alter British history and would give rise to rumor, slander, betrayal, revenge, and a fight against injustice. Like “Love & War”, this second novel in “The Rose Of York” trilogy showcases author Sandra Worth's painstaking historical research, dedication to authenticity, and superbly crafted characters and plotting that are the hallmark of her work. Very highly recommended and entertaining reading, “Crown Of Destiny” will leave its reader looking eagerly toward the third and final volume of “The Rose Of York” series.



“A masterpiece.”  ~~   Dale Summers for The Ricardian Register, quarterly journal of the Richard III Society.


The Historical Novel Society Review
An “Editors’ Choice”

In this sequel to the gripping The Rose of York: Love and War, Worth does a beautiful, and succinct, job of retelling the well-worn but no less horrific story of Edward IV’s fall from glory. Here, Worth focuses primarily on the temporarily successful manipulation of the entire Woodville clan to wrest power away from the Plantagenets and the ultimate succession of Richard III to the throne.
Worth does justice to the story. While dosing it heavily with historical fact, she makes it absolutely pulse with human emotion.
Crown of Destiny, for all its brevity, is a deep and gripping read. Although it is not necessary to read Love and War beforehand, I feel that it gave me an opportunity to familiarize myself with Worth’s style and to immerse myself immediately into the story.
The final installment in this series, Fall from Grace, is due out later this year. I’m going to grab that one as soon as I can.”

 ~~ Ilysa Magnus



Heartstrings Reviews

“The Rose of York: Crown of Destiny is the intriguing sequel to Sandra Worth's stunning historical epic, Love & War, and details the gripping rise and fall of king-in-the-making . . .  Richard III . . .  History is hypnotizing in the hands of Sandra Worth . . . Award-winning writing and breath-stealing glimpses at the man behind the enduring mystery -- and fallacy? -- of King Richard III conspire to make Crown of Destiny a royally intriguing novel of historical fiction that is, quite possibly, without category or peer.”

 ~~ Cheryl Jeffries



Crystal Reviews

“Sandra Worth knows how to write superb historical fiction! The reader comes to appreciate the depth of Richard's character in taut suspense through the spare yet plot-driven tale quickly emerging under Worth's deft, depictive skills. With meticulous research, this author proceeds to engage the reader in truly understanding where the term “blind justice” originated and what it truly means in the life of a respectable and memorable political leader of amazing stature!”

 ~~ Viviane Crystal




Amazon's #1 Reviewer Harriet Klausner:

“Fantastic historical Fiction.”



Romance Reviews Today
A Perfect Ten.

“Ms. Worth's in-depth research is apparent from the first page with her details of everyday life and the intimate facts of Richard's life that have been well documented. Nowhere is there a hint of Shakespeare's politically motivated description of an evil, misshapen prince. In fact, historical information on this interesting man usually refutes what the Tudors wanted people to believe about him. CROWN OF DESTINY depicts a man torn by family loyalty and what, today, would be considered patriotism and justice for all. There are no fictional characters, and while a little poetic license must be taken due to the distance in time since his life, Ms. Worth makes every effort to stick to what is, in fact, known about this incredibly forward-thinking man.
I most highly recommend this wonderful depiction of Richard III and look forward, albeit with a mixture of sadness and enthusiasm, to book three, FALL FROM GRACE.”

 ~~ Jani Brooks








Reviews for the Rose of York: Fall from Grace


* Printer friendly PDF file for Fall from Grace


“Quoting Dale Summers' words from her review of The Rose of York: Crown of Destiny, “this is a masterpiece.” As a result of reading the first novel of Ms. Worth's series, I became a member of the Richard III Society and have dedicated myself to beginning a chapter in New Mexico. She is amazing, accurate and riveting as an author amd I encourage everyone to take the time to read her novels. It will change your life.”
 ~~   Lori Braunhardt for The Ricardian Register, quarterly journal of the Richard III Society.



Heartstrings Reviews

“Fall from Grace is . . .  the valiant heart of this meticulously researched trilogy . . .  A crowning achievement . . .  and gracefully illuminates the rise and fall of King Richard III: a villain no longer in the deft hands and gilt-edged prose of this gifted historical writer. . .  Worth's interpretation and elegant extrapolation of events that cannot be verified (and those that can be) is utterly engrossing...  the very definition of award-winning fiction. The Richard III within these pages is a flawed man but also a mighty king, and Worth's prose -- rich, shining, and ever so finely-quilled -- easily overcomes any rumors of malice. The Rose of York series, therefore, is both triumphant and tragic and is highly recommended reading as history is brought to aching, fascinating life in Love & War, Crown of Destiny, and Worth’s final, dazzling glory in this series, Fall from Grace. While the quest to de-vilify and/or vilify Richard III will doubtless continue, Fall from Grace is a worthy end to this epic and evocative trilogy. ”

 ~~ Reviewed by Cheryl Jeffries



Midwest Book Review --
Small Press Book Watch

Written by political science and economics expert Sandra Worth, who lectures regularly on the subject of the War of the Roses, The Rose of York: Fall from Grace is the dynamic, award-winning conclusion to Worth's “Rose of York” series of historically accurate novels. Revolving around the tragic figure of King Richard III, The Rose of York: Fall from Grace explores his legacy past the conclusion of the protracted war and into the modern day of Western democracy. Pulsing with intrigue, passion, betrayal, murder, war, and fragile hope, The Rose of York: Fall from Grace is an immersive page-turner and highly recommended.



The Romantic Times Magazine
Romantic Times TOP PICK!

“This magnificent series is at an end and this last installment is its crowning glory...This impressive volume is not to be missed.”

 ~~ Donna M. Brown



Curled up with a Good Book
Book Reviews

“Historically, Richard III bears a heavy burden as a devious and ambitious ruler tainted by the fate of the princes in the tower. Worth takes exception to Richard’s tattered reputation, portraying him as a monarch whose concern for the rule of law laid the groundwork for our modern system of justice, the fair resolution of conflict and equality before the law, dealing with his subjects’ legal issues with a prescient sophistication.

Whether or not Worth changes the opinion of scholars, the author makes a strong case for a man who set the parameters of justice (innocent until proven guilty, equality before the law), a compassionate and tortured ruler, the last Plantagenet king, maligned by history as villain and murderer but made more human and accessible in this incarnation.”

 ©  Luan Gaines, 2007




Book Pleasures.com

“Through the parsing together of timelines, records, and documents that have survived over 500 years of threat and suppression, Worth manages to paint a picture of Richard III that stands in direct conflict with what most people are familiar. The text is far from a didactic gloss of historical dates, names and locations, and it manages to recreate the life of Richard III with such vivacity and personality that it will forever change the mental image of one of history’s most hated monarchs.”

 ©  Dawn Papuga



Reviewer's Choice Reviews

“ . . . In his hopeless struggle he has become a man we love.

The legend of the Richard III Monster, the creation of Tudor's writers, is inconsistent with Richard's actions as a ruler. His laws, pushed through Parliament in the short time that he had to concentrate on them, reformed the English justice system to the point of revolution.

FALL FROM GRACE is the final book of The Rose of York trilogy. LOVE AND WAR establishes the foundation of Richard's character, and CROWN OF DESTINY shows the influences of public life that made Richard the king he would become. The trilogy has won a plethora of awards and deserves them, for its combination of humanity, inspiring writing, years of research, and convincing insight.”

 ~~ Joy Calderwood
April 2007



Crystal Reviews

“ ‘Tis a grand job you have done, Sandra Worth, in this trilogy. This is a deeply moving, well-written book that should become required reading for anyone seeking to know the heights of what a true ruler can imagine and attempt to create, no matter what vicissitudes of life threaten!

Keep writing, Ms. Worth - you are a rare talent at creating meaningful, accurate and literary, historical fiction!”

 ~~ Viviane Crystal
March 14, 2007



Romance Reviews Today
A Perfect Ten

“FALL FROM GRACE is an amazing, brilliantly composed conclusion to the story of a man who would, today, be considered not only a hero, but a wise leader, something of a rarity in this age. Sandra Worth's attention to detail, her incredible amount of research and devotion to portraying Richard and those who both loved and hated him as realistically as possible, shines through on every page. I'm sorry to see the trilogy end, but am looking forward to her next book on the War of the Roses. As I've said in previous reviews of The Rose of York books, this is a Perfect 10.”

 ~~ Jani Brooks




The Romance Studio

“The Rose of York: Fall from Grace is the concluding volume in the extensively-researched and historically accurate series by author Sandra Worth, The Rose of York. A fascinating novel for historical aficionados and general readers as well, Fall from Grace reads like an entertaining novel with its characters rich in depth and its fast-paced and convoluted plots. Vivid and descriptive settings bring the background to life and the reader feels as if she is watching rather than merely reading the scenes. If all history lessons could be brought as vividly to life as the story of Richard III has been in Fall from Grace, students would flock to learn.”

Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Sweet
Reviewer: Annie
April 18, 2007



Scribes World

“If you’re like me, you find British history confusing. Too many Richards and Henrys and people with too many aliases­. The Duke of Wherever, who’s also known as Henry Something Else, but called Hal by his friends, who’s married to the Duchess of Wherever, but her name turns out to be something completely different, besides which, she goes by Lady Third Name. To top it all off, my knowledge of Richard of York was limited to what little bit I knew from Shakespeare. He was a nasty sort who murdered two boys in a tower.

Well, was I set straight! Although there is an abundance of Richards and Henrys (there’s no getting around that), Worth’s history of Richard of York is told mostly from the eyes of the women in Richard’s life, ­and a charming fellow he is too. He might not even have killed the two kids. He established laws that we still (more or less) hold dear, and the theory that people are innocent until proven guilty.

Worth gives us a Richard worthy of romance, without resorting to making up history. She’s honest about the tough life people­ (particularly women­) led in the fifteenth century, without glamorizing it and skimping on details. Her dialogues are obviously fictional but the facts upon which she bases them are evident from the years of research she has indulged in, and justifiably so.

If you’ve ever wanted to get an easy-to-handle British history that finally doesn’t overly confuse you, and one that might open your eyes to a different version of history, this is definitely a series you need to read.”

Reviewed by Ann Beardsley
Rating: 4.0



Historical Romance Writers

“Chronicling the major accomplishments in Richard’s life; THE ROSE OF YORK: FALL FROM GRACE is a lengthy tome of vivid historical detail and vivid imagery. The author covers the King’s past and present; his successes and failures, his decisions and the reasons for them. All in all, and fine piece of historical fiction with all the pageantry and prose of 1400’s England, one that is sure to please many readers. Suspenseful, dramatic, tragic and absorbing best describe this book. This reader would suggest reading from the beginning of the series if you want to feel the full impact of Mallory’s England.”

Lettetia, Official Reviewer for Historical Romance Writers
Ratings
Overall: 9
Sensuality: 2
History: 9

Copyright  © Sandra Worth - All Rights Reserved