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The Lady of Misrule by Suzannah Dunn (view source)
Revision as of 12:39, 12 August 2020
, 12:39, 12 August 2020no edit summary
Suzannah has also sorted out the problem of an incarcerated narrator not being present at important events. In this version of Jane's downfall we're kept abreast of general feeling by the wonderfully gossipy maid Goose and our avuncular Tower of London gaolers, the Partridges.
Talking of the narrator, Elizabeth is a good one, revealing much about herself as she regales us with the lives and pasts of others. History acts as a spoiler for Jane's story but Elizabeth's has some surprises. In fact , this is as much about what's to become of the attendant as it is about what's to become of the deposed monarch.
Especially to begin with the novel may feel like a light read but don't be deceived. It's packed with subtle insights regarding history, psychology and, as our own Sue pointed out in a previous Suzannah Dunn review, the view of a writer with a penchant for ''ordinary people in extraordinary situations''.
A small measure of Suzannah's intelligent writing is the title itself, creating a historical pun. Jane's time on the throne could be seen as a misrule, but the historic meaning of the phrase is deeper. The Lord of Misrule was someone who would rule over a group of fools as part of the proceedings at old English Christmas banquets; a great analogy, a clever title and a really satisfying read.
(Thank you to the folk at Little Brown for providing us with a copy for review.)
Further Reading: If this appeals then we also heartily recommend Suzannah's [[The Confession of Katherine Howard by Suzannah Dunn| The Confession of Katherine]] about Katherine Howard and/or the aforementioned [[The May Bride by Suzannah Dunn|The May Bride]]. If you'd like to continue reading about the Grey family, [[The Nine Day Queen by Ella March Chase]] brings a slightly different view.
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