Description
England. 1469.
A fortunate marriage will change history. A scandal could destroy everything…
Margaret Paston, matriarch of the Paston family, knows that a favourable match for one of her unruly daughters is the only way to survive the loss of their recently acquired Caister Castle. But as the War of the Roses rages on, dangerous enemies will threaten even her best laid plans.
Margery Paston, her eldest daughter, has always strived to uphold the Paston name and do her mother proud. But when she loses her heart to a man below her station, she must make a terrible choice: will she betray her family and risk everything for a chance at true love?
Anne Haute, first cousin to the Queen, is embroiled in a longstanding betrothal to Sir John Paston, the eldest son and heir to the Paston seat. But despite his promises, Anne can’t help but doubt that he will ever keep his word and make her his wife…
In the midst of civil war, each of these women must decide: Head or heart? Love or duty? Reputation- or scandal?
Review
This is the third (and most certainly not the last) of Anne O’Brien’s books that I have read. A Marriage of Fortune is the sequel to The Royal Game (review here), which I thought was absolutely fantastic.
I really enjoyed seeing what was next for the Paston women and family, although with this stage in their story I found myself feeling more touched, and even tearful, I suppose as I now ‘know’ the characters so well.
As ever, Anne O’Brien impresses with quality of her writing, I found it captivating and often moving. Though written from multiple perspectives, of lives that intertwine, I felt able to understand and empathise with each easily. I like and appreciate that the Paston story is that of real people, and whilst they had links with the Royal Court were not Royalty or nobility but on the up (dear Margaret trying so very hard) as gentry – which offered an interesting insight into the lives of those in this position, as the majority of historical fiction from this period tends to focus on the Kings, Queens, and higher powers within England.
I really don’t want the story to end! I am not sure if there will be any further books in the Paston series, however I would love to know how things work out for Jonty and Gilly, as well as Anne, and the younger siblings. I may have to do my own research to satisfy my curiosity!
Highly recommend this and the first in the series, you will be hooked!
