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Royal Mistress

By: Anne Easter Smith
Narrated by: Heather Wilds
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Publisher's summary

Jane Lambert, the quick-witted and alluring daughter of a silk merchant, is twenty-two and still unmarried. When Jane’s father finally finds her a match, she’s married off to the dull, older silk merchant William Shore. Marriage doesn’t stop Jane from flirtation, however, and when the king’s chamberlain, Will Hastings, comes to her husband’s shop, Will knows King Edward will find her irresistible.

Edward IV has everything: Power, majestic bearing, superior military leadership, a sensual nature, and charisma. And with Jane as his mistress, he also finds true happiness. But when his hedonistic tendencies get in the way of being the strong leader England needs, his life, as well as those of Jane and Will Hastings, hangs in the balance. Jane must rely on her talents to survive as the new monarch, Richard III, bent on reforming his brother’s licentious court, ascends the throne.

This dramatic tale has been an inspiration to poets and playwrights for five hundred years, and, as told through the unique perspective of a woman plucked from obscurity and thrust into a life of notoriety, Royal Mistress is sure to enthrall today’s historical fiction lovers as well.

©2013 Anne Easter Smith (P)2013 Audible, Inc.
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What listeners say about Royal Mistress

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Fantastic

I have read many books that have had Jane Shore in them and have often found her character interesting! This book does not disappoint and I absolutely enjoyed it. Historically liberal but overall fantastic story. Narration is superbly done. Enjoy this listen.

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2 people found this helpful

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awesome!

I loved reading it. I have already started listening to the audio book and enjoy doing my errands as I listen!

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2 people found this helpful

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Good story. Good reader

I've had this one sitting around a while. I'm glad I hit around too it.

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starts a bit slower, but keep at it! wonderful!

I knew little of royal mistresses, although I have been reading Anne Easter-Smith and likeness for about 5 years. The obstacles women have to face is astonishing! This is one of those stories, with romance, war, death and what men do to climb ladders. Heather Wilds voice acting is SUPERB! For a woman, a man or child! Her talents are boundless!!

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Enjoyable

Would you consider the audio edition of Royal Mistress to be better than the print version?

I have only "listened" to this book. It is probably just as enjoyable in the printed version. The book is set in a very specific period of English history which has been fertile ground to writers of historical fiction. The historical framework is factual although there is much conjecture on the part of the author. Ms. Easter-Smith is a good writer who knows how to construct an interesting, romantic heroine based on what we know of Jane Shore.

What was your reaction to the ending? (No spoilers please!)

It was an original ending although I do not think it adds to the quality of the book.

What does Heather Wilds bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

The narrator inhabits the very likable, although at times naive heroine.

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A true historical romance

Many romance, writers describe their stories as set in historical times, but provide little historical context. Not so Ann Easter Smith’s “Royal Mistress.” This was an absolutely beautiful novel combining fascinating information about medieval London, the reign of Edward IV and the struggles of a woman attempting to control her own destiny - Jane Shore. Jane was King Edward’s mistress for the last eight years of his reign. Ms. Smith describes Jane’s triumphs and tribulations during and after her time with the king. The characters are drawn in detail, describing both their strengths and weaknesses. The romantic relationship between Jane and King Edward and the conflicted feelings she had about other men in her life who desired her was well done. Ms. Smith also deftly described the plight of most women in the Middle Ages who were totally dependent on the men in their lives for their literal survival. This is an astonishing true story that takes you to a very different world and time. I loved every word.

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Annoying narrator.

What did you love best about Royal Mistress?

Enjoyed the story despite the narrator who sounded like she was reading the text for the first time.

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f Fake Accent

I struggled to keep listening to the horrible on again off again accent. A good story too, so tho I wanted to hear it, I wish she would have just read the story , or perhaps they could have found someone with a real accent? How hard could that be?

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Thoroughly

I thoroughly enjoyed the story! Also, the narrators voice is lovely! Thank you Anne
for your excellent work 🙂

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Accidental finding

I came across this title by accident but thought that I would give it a try. Such a wonderfully written story and perfectly executed performance. Now I have three other books in my library by this author.

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