John Vance

Betty Keller, one of King Charles' II many mistresses has been found murdered in her bed. The weapon and a note lead those around the King to believe that the murderer might be connected to another of the King's mistresses, Lady Castlemaine. While the King continues his revelry, different groups surrounding him plot for his demise and success. King Charles II thoroughly enjoys the theatre and often finds new mistresses through the actresses there and the theatre directors are only happy to oblige. The many women surrounding Charles all vie for his attention while having different motives while in his company. Others plot for the King's murder while the King blissfully plans his next romantic encounter.

The King's Favorite is part historical mystery and part court intrigue. The history and attention to detail in King Charles II's time is the main focus. I knew of Barbara Villiers and was intrigued by the many other mistresses of King Charles as well as their interactions with him and each other. The mystery of Betty's death almost takes a back seat to the many other intrigues happening around King Charles. The theatre directors have a large part in setting the scene along with the rest of the theatre company. The writing is very descriptive in nature and didn't pull my interest as much as it could have in many parts, hopping from different characters and scenes. I did want to know who killed Betty and how and was intrigued by the ending and how it played out.



This book was received for free in return for an honest review.… (mer)

Tick travels by steamboat, train, and ocean ship before arriving in Charleston. Along the way he has several adventures and meets a variety of characters. Once in Charleston, the reader experiences the lead up to the Civil War from an average citizen’s point of view from those living in Charleston to those just visiting. A wonderful tour of the town and people from various walks of life. This book makes the conflict of perspectives and emotions very real. The “voice” is a 12 year old boy discovering people’s motivations for what they believe and how they act. This book makes the time period come alive for the reader. A fascinating read!… (mer)

I enjoy reading Historical Fiction, especially the Tudor and Stewart periods and how an author’s imagination plays with the captured research. The Kings favorite was about the mistress of King Charles and the plot behind his assassination. I think the book had a good idea and the development of the characters were great. However, the basic story line was average, and I didn’t feel a desire to finish the reading and when I did I was a bit disappointed as there was nothing that held my attention.… (mer)