My first read for the challenge and what an absorbing story.
This story is away from the norm of Heyer's Regency novels, being set in the 1400's
(England and France).
A forward in the book by Heyer's son records that:
"this was first published in 1925 when my mother was in her early 20's. Nevertheless many of her readers will not have seen it before.
My mother was her own sternest critic and many years ago, stated there were some 5 to 6 titles which she never wished to see reprinted. This is one of them.
After her death in 1974, I was persuaded to read the book once more, and soon came to the conclusion that, in this instance at all events, her judgment had been too harsh.
In the book, it is easy to detect in it a quick eye for historical detail and an ability to paint a scene from another age which were to become the hallmarks of her later works."
The dialogue between the characters is in "Old English" but you get used to this as you progress through the story, and in fact it makes the story, so cleverly has Heyer written.
The main character is Simon the Page, who becomes Simon the Lord, all by his own doing and in doing this, becomes a close friend and ally of King Henry.
Romance is introduced into the story towards the closing chapters when Simon's resolve crumbles, when he meets Lady Margaret of Belremy (France), who has refused to surrender to the English.
Simon is resolute and very chivalrous and never thinks he will meet a woman who can measure up to him.
A very enjoyable read and would recommend to all Georgette Heyer fans.
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