This was my first book by Susanna Kearsley, and it definitely won’t be my last. I love her writing style—deliberate and calming, beautiful without being overly flowery. The history is quietly lived by the characters, not pounded into the reader’s brain. The romance is sweet and slow. I can’t wait to read her again.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Thank you NetGalley, Sourcebooks Landmark and author, Susanna Kearsley for the arc!

Here we go with another 5 star read!! Woot woot!

I can’t believe this is my first book by this author! Have I been hiding in some kind of weird hole to have never even stumbled across her books before now? I am so thankful for this arc that has introduced me to what I am sure is going to be a new favorite historical fiction/romance storyteller & I am 100% here for it!

The amount of research that went into this sweeping saga is evident as it is filled with vivid descriptions, rich history & captivating detail … making everything just come alive on the page. The alternating pov’s are done with perfect pacing, really giving each of the characters their own voice, making me fall in love with each one of them! And the sweet "enemies to lovers" romance along with the enthralling story of the king’s messenger & pursuit for justice was melded together so nicely & so beautifully written! I can’t even begin to tell you how much I enjoyed this book!

Soooo … don’t mind me ya’ll … I’ll just be over here adding all the books from @susanna.kearsley to my tbr! Because if this one is any indication, I have found another writer whose books I will not be able to put down!

Can we just start with the way that Kearsley is always teaching me history I didn't know? I was AGHAST to learn about King James in here and how he treated his children and his wife. I remain mad. I also had to make sure that he wasn't the same King James who became exiled, because, honestly, I was going to have a much more difficult time feeling bad for him if so. I was relieved to find out that he wasn't. Anyway, as always, if you find yourself compelled by the book, Kearsley's Author's Note about the history of the times is always a fantastic read.

Anyway, in terms of the actual story, essentially, Andrew Logan is sent after Sir David Moray and Phoebe Westaway and her father go off with him because Phoebe's dad is a scribe. Phoebe and Andrew dislike one another (mostly Phoebe) at the beginning and so there is a super slow build of their romantic relationship that I, of course, adored. Kearsley is big on showing rather than telling and so this book requires attention in a way that was admittedly a struggle for me at the time that I was reading it, but overall, I loved it despite the amount of energy it took for me to focus. As always, I cannot wait for more from Kearsley because I just have so much fun with her works. She is so talented and I love learning as much as I do from her. The romance and the adventure in this book is really satisfying. It also has me wanting to reread The Shadowy Horses and The Firebird because Andrew has the Second Sight. Honestly, just what a good time.

The King's Messenger by Susanna Kearsley is the 3rd book I've read by this talented author. The other two books were excellent, but this one is my favorite of the three. It was magnificent! I don't know why I haven't yet read the other books she's written; I guess it's because of my ridiculous metaphorical towering TBR pile. I definitely need to amend that, as this book was exquisite.

In 1613, King James is sending his Messenger Andrew Logan on a mission to Scotland. He has secret orders to arrest Sir David Moray, who was a close friend and advisor to the late Prince Henry. Andrew has the Second Sight, so he totally understands the need for secrets; he must keep his gift under wraps in order to protect his life. Accompanying him to Scotland is court scrivener Laurence Westaway and his daughter Phoebe. As their journey proceeds, Andrew begins to uncover the real reason for his mission - Sir David is to be framed for Prince Henry's murder. However, Andrew will not betray the innocent man. Phoebe dislikes Andrew, and their past makes it difficult to trust him. But she begins to understand the man the King's Messenger truly is.

This book was an exciting blend of true historical characters and events with fictional counterparts. The action takes place in both England and Scotland, and mixes romance, action and court alliances. King James (VI of Scotland and I of England), son of Mary, Queen of Scots, unified both countries under one crown. His wife was Anna of Denmark, the Queen of Britain. When their eldest son Prince Henry dies, there begin to be rumors that the young Prince was poisoned. In this tale King James is not a particularly caring spouse and father; he seems to care more about his favorite hunting dog than his family. Andrew Logan, as the King's Messenger, was a hero to root for. He was happy as a stable lad when young; but when Andrew's father, the prior Messenger, dies, Andrew is tasked with taking his place. Andrew had the Second Sight, but in a time where "witches" are put to death, he had to keep his supernatural gift a secret. He was a good, honest and noble young man of 26 years old. He took his duties seriously, and he planned to abide by his King's orders...until he figured out that the King planned to frame Sir David. He might have been the King's Messenger, but he was moral and could not betray an innocent man. Phoebe, a lass of 24 years, could not abide Andrew. She thought she knew what kind of man Andrew was, but she wasn't close to being right about him. Phoebe demanded that she be included in the travel to Scotland with Andrew and her father, who she knew was in ill health. Just how ill she didn't know, but Andrew was able to "see" her father's fate, and allowed her to accompany them. I loved the romance between the two and how Phoebe realized her opinions of the man were terribly inaccurate. The brutal man she thought she knew didn't exist. It was a slow building romance, and very touching. Supporting characters were wonderful, with two exceptional stand-outs. First was Sir David Moray, who was an actual man; he was a poet and a caring caretaker and friend of Prince Henry. He loved the Prince as if he were his own son, and was devastated at his death. Sir David was also an honorable man, and he stood by his word to not attempt to escape from Andrew and the fate that awaited him. Then there's Hector, a very young stable lad who adored and worshipped Andrew; he wanted to become a Messenger like his hero. I loved this blend of the real, fictional and supernatural; I was brought to tears a number of times, and the tale ended way before I was ready to let these wonderful characters go! I cannot wait to get my hands on whatever work Ms. Kearsley comes out with next.

I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.

I am a big Susanna Kearsley fan, and this new book just continues to prove why.

Set in 1613 on basically a road-trip adventure from England to Scotland and back, this story is about love and loss, honor under duress, power and privilege, the ruthlessness of those who feel threatened or subverted. and ultimately friendship and doing what's right. It centers around Andrew Logan (the king's messenger) who is ordered by King James to track down and arrest Sir David Moray, a close friend and advisor/mentor of the late Prince Henry for his possible connection to Henry's sudden illness and death. But as Logan comes to know and slowly give over his trust to Sir David, he begins to question the true purpose of his quest.

Kearsley has a way with characters, plot and world-building research...in other words, the whole package one wants from a good book. Other than our protagonists, Logan and Phoebe Westaway (our heroine), the rest of the characters along for the ride (Laurence Westaway, Sir David and Hector) are simply superb and add just the right touch of humor and depth to round out a wonderful ensemble cast. The plot, while involving court intrigue and dastardly deeds, was interesting with just the right amount of depth to keep me engrossed and none of the confusion of a convoluted mire that can often be found in historical court outings. And as far as the location settings, Kearsley led me alongside this group, spending nights under the stars, stopping off at homes along the way for rest and even viewing a few wraiths along the way (oh, and yes, Logan is gifted with Second Sight, which adds its own importance in the events surrounding their adventure).

Ultimately, beyond the greed and the heinous maneuverings, this story shines as a testament to integrity and the true bonds of kinship both of families by blood and those made by choice. And, of course, I can't leave out the sweet and lovely slow-burn romance.

Well done.

My sincere thanks to the author, NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for providing the free early arc of The King's Messenger for review. The opinions are strictly my own.

Kearsley is a great storyteller. The King’s Messenger is well written and meticulously researched. It’s a blend of historical fiction, romance, court intrigue and magical realism. Loved it.

Susanna Kearsley writes wonderful historical fiction. She uses her research of that time period to really build a world that the reader can visualize and her characterizations if the people from that time ring true. I read quite a bit of historical fiction and somehow never stumbled upon the fact that there were King’s Messengers whose sole job were to deliver messages, or in this case capture someone and bring him back to the King. That was interesting enough on its own but Andrew Logan also had the sight, giving him a view of the future. Something in this time that would be feared and possibly get him killed. I thought this supernatural element really added a neat twist to this historical novel and made Logan’s character just a tad bit more interesting.

The mystery element to this story unfolded slowly, really allowing the reader to develop feelings for the characters and care about the outcome of their journey. Was David Moray implicit in the death of the Prince? This story will make you feel for these characters and care about the resolution to that mystery.

Review will be posted on 3/7/25
The year is 1618 and Henry, Prince of Wales, has died under suspicion. Many people suspect poison and many suspect his Gentleman of the Robes, Sir David Murray, as they were quite close. Curiously, he traveled to France right after Henry's death, which raises another red flag. They assign Andrew Logan, the King's Messenger, to track down Murray in his native homeland of Scotland and apprehend him. The King has also requested a scrivener to attend, who happens to be Andrew's neighbor, Laurence. He is ailing though, so his daughter, Phoebe, accompanies them, so she can help out her father. The issue is that Phoebe can't stand Andrew even though Andrew has secretly had a bit of a crush on her. While on the journey there's danger that lurks, the awkward moments between Phoebe and Andrew, dealing with Laurence and his health, and not to mention Andrew's second sight. Once they come in contact with Murray, things aren't as they seem though and Andrew is questioning his suspicions. Meanwhile, Phoebe and Andrew's relationship blossoms and it has Phoebe questioning her feelings towards him. Susanna Kearsley's The King's Messenger is rich with historical detail and while slower than her other novels, there is still much to enjoy for historical fiction fans.

Andrew's role is an interesting one in The King's Messenger. I liked how he was assigned this mission and slowly readers learn what happened to Prince Henry, although Kearsley takes a bit of creative license in this sense. His forced proximity to Phoebe and the slow burn of their romance was enjoyable in that it was like a road trip romance as they journey to Scotland. The addition of a his second sight also gives the plot a touch of magical realist. Lastly, I did appreciate the mystery surrounding Henry's death and wanted answers as well.

While I felt The King's Messenger was a bit slower than Kearsley's usual novels, I still enjoyed the the slow burn. The historical details that readers have come to love from Kearsley are present and as always, she truly brings the time period to life.

Have you read The King's Messenger? Is it on your TBR list? Are you a fan of Susanna Kearsley? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

This was a great Books very interesting how it's 1613 king jamesend sent a Messenger named Andrew L o j e n. To Scotland to arrest sergeant, sir David Mo.R.A.Y There is a woman named PHOEPE.
She was very important in this book as well. I like how the author every chapter had a different theme to it and your book.Became like a love story and a mystery is well. They talked about how things were very different in England because Catholic Church was no longer in power. The very interesting take on this was going on.In In england after queen elizabeth died. There's so much history in this book and it's very well written. And you can follow the themes in the plots and how these messengers were sent on these missions to perform king James and what was going on?. At the end of the book the author also explain how these messages came about

This novel was set in 1613 in Scotland and England. Andrew Logan is a messenger for the king. He is sent to bring back Sir David Murray, who was a constant companion to the prince, from Scotland. The king wants to question him. Logan must bring David back in one piece while traveling with a woman who hates him and her sick father. The only problem is Murray's family doesn't want him brought back because there is more than meets the eye to this situation. Susanna Kearsley knows how to weave a tale, with research and imagination she brings history to life. Thank you to the publisher, the author and Netgalley for the opportunity.

Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for this ARC. My opinions are my own.

It is 1613 and Prince Henry, James I's eldest son and heir has tragically died. Rumours whisper that it might not have been by natural causes. Queen Anna is distraught, and King James is determined to punish the guilty.

Andrew Logan is one of the king's messengers and he's tasked with going to Scotland to apprehend Sir David Moray, Prince Henry's closest companion, and bring him safely to London to face 'trial'. Logan will not be travelling alone, along for the journey will also be an experienced scribe, Lawrence Westaway, who will write down anything that Moray says or does during the trip. Because Lawrence is elderly and of ill health, Westaway's daughter Phoebe will also accompany them. Complicating matters somewhat is the secret Logan needs to keep from everyone around him. He has the Second Sight, and can occasionally catch glimpses of things that will happen. In a time where the least unusual behaviour could have you accused of witchcraft, Logan dares not tell Phoebe that he can see her father's poor health will shortly lead to his death.

While the queen is mourning her son, she doesn't necessarily believe Sir David is responsible for his death. She wants him brought safely to her so she can speak with him, Logan's orders are to bring him directly to the king. Logan suspects that by arresting Moray, he may be complicit in the man's demise. It doesn't help matters that Logan and Phoebe don't exactly get along. She believes him to be a brutish and uncivilised man, swayed by the words of others in her acquaintance. He believes her to be a judgemental snob who has coldly rejected any of his overtures of friendship since they were younger.

The journey from Edinburgh to London is long, however, and the travellers spend a lot of time in each other's company. Logan arrests Sir David as his ship from France arrives in the port in Leith, and on their return journey to London, the group are also joined by a young stablehand who idolises Logan and wants to become a royal messenger like him. Sir David is obviously grieving the loss of Prince Henry deeply and it becomes obvious to everyone in the group almost immediately that he is an innocent man, and that taking him to London would be to commit an act of injustice. Their return to London will also be dangerous, as one of Sir David's Scottish kinsmen is pursuing them with a large band of his soldiers, determined to spirit his cousin away to safety.

Searching my blog, it turns out I haven't actually read a single of Kearsley's novels since 2014 when I finished The Firebird. It surprised me that it's been so long, I remember the ones I read quite well and liked all three. She writes very well-researched and engaging historical fiction, sometimes with a light supernatural element, such as Andrew Logan's occasional glimpses into the future in this book. Based on the plot descriptions of this book online, I was expecting more of a suspense book, possibly something involving espionage - which is not the case. In some ways, it's a road trip novel, only the mode of transportation is horses, and it takes a considerable amount of time riding from Edinburgh to London, even when keeping a brisk pace because rebellious Scotsmen are in pursuit. I actually preferred this quieter story to the one I thought would be happening, so in my case, it worked out fine.

In several of the Kearsley books I read in the past, there are two parallell storylines, one set in the past, one in the present day. Here, it's all in the early 1600s, chiefly 1613, but several of the POV characters, like Sir David and Queen Anna have flashbacks to previous events, mostly concerning Prince Henry. There is absolutely romantic tension between Logan and Phoebe, but it's not exactly a sweeping love story that dominates the plot. It becomes clear to the reader (who gets to read the POV of both characters) that a lot of their mutual distrust and animosity comes from misunderstandings early on in their acquaintance (and in Phoebe's case, that she's listened to people who spread malicious gossip, some of which is clearly untrue).

I was also worried, when I realised how much of this book deals with grief of losing a son (Sir David may not have fathered Prince Henry, but he cleary loved the young man as a son, probably much more than King James ever did), which since I became a mother is one of my biggest nightmares. Sir David and Queen Anna's flashbacks were sad, but thankfully there was nothing to emotionally destroy me.

The King's Messenger is out this week in the US. In the rest of the world, it's apparently been out since August 2024, so there are already lots of readers out there that share my view on the quality of this book. It was a lovely read, and made me determined to check out more of Kearsley's back catalogue before another decade passes.

The King’s Messenger is a book you do not want to miss. Addictive, with lines I’ve been re-reading over and over again, highlighting them for safe keeping. Unputdownable, I loved every page from start to finish. How Kearsley reimagines 1600’s Scotland is fascinating, blending in fictional characters with real ones, story-telling that has the reader captivated, seamlessly creating a novel that in a word is irresistible.

If you love historical fiction (1600’s Scotland/Britain) that’s well-researched, beautifully written, with a riveting adventure, an enemies-to-lovers and a slow-burn romance that is chef’s kiss, make sure to grab a copy of The King’s Messenger.

Plus, look at those sprayed edges. This book is gorgeous inside and out!

Run, don’t walk to get this one. It’s just too good to put down, and I’m already considering a reread.

A seventeenth-century road trip through England and Scotland for a group suspicious of each other and suspicious of their mission is at the heart of this latest historical from an author who brings history to life through her magical and suspenseful tales. Susanna Kearsley’s books found me several years ago when an ‘if you love… then you’ll like….’ type of list caught my eye and I’ve enjoyed each new release ever since.

The King’s Messenger was different from the start because there is no dual timeline format. It’s strictly seventeenth century. That said, it still feels like a split story because of all the perspectives that come into play delivering the story in pieces to heighten the suspense and reveal multiple sides. There are three main narrators (Andrew, Phoebe, and David) with a fourth (Queen Anna) getting some chapters, too.

Kearsley’s writing style has a rich tonal quality to it. I love her unique style and it feels old-school the way romantic suspense writers from decades ago used to write their stories around their central figures and the plot.

Andrew is a fascinating character for having ‘The Sight’ and being dyslexic. He is the King’s Messenger mentioned in the title who leaves London under the King’s order and heads north into Scotland to bring in Sir David Moray for questioning regarding the death of Prince Henry. Andrew grows more certain as the trip continues just what the real reason he was sent after Sir David Moray who may or may not have murdered his charge, Prince Henry. He’s not stupid and is aware of the political jockeying of king, other nobles and even the Queen. His gift of The Sight is not controlled and comes when it wills, but it does protect him from lethal danger as his group is in danger that journey back from Scotland. He knows that he must make the biggest decision of his life by the time he reaches London- follow his duty to the King and his job or follow justice and his heart when it comes to the truth of the prince’s death.

Feisty Phoebe and her father, a scribe, are along for this trip. Phoebe’s father is old and growing weaker so she will not let him go on the mission alone though she hates and distrusts Andrew. Phoebe buys what some other sketchy guy is selling about Andrew (and by sketchy, I could tell as a reader that he wasn’t trustworthy made me side-eye Phoebe for a while). So yes, we have an enemies to lovers romance brewing as forced proximity with Andrew makes her start to question everything she thought she knew about him. The romance is a significant element, but not the only main element and it brews slowly.

Furthermore, there is Sir David’s perspective as the situation slowly comes into focus. There is David’s perspective on what is occurring currently and his flashbacks of grieving memory to his time serving Prince Henry and their loving friendship forged through Henry’s short, eventful life.

The motley crew of travelers draw closer on the long road trip. What happened regarding Prince Henry and is happening currently is revealed culminating in an exciting finish to this over the road adventure. Loved learning there were true events included in this one in the extended Author’s Note afterwards.

So, another sensational outing with a Susanna Kearsley’s The King’s Messenger. Those who enjoy a romantic historical with a dash of magic and stunning historical backdrop should definitely pick this one up.

I LOVE THIS STORY

Last year I discovered Susanna Kearsley's pen and since then I have been in love with her, so far I have only read three of her stories, but rest assured I will get to the rest.

This book as is the author's trademark is full of historical research, but despite the great detail she tells the story moving so seamlessly from fictional to factual, the reading flows as fast as ever.

I love how it transports me back to that Scotland of yesteryear and all that Royal Court movement, it has such atmospheric writing it's amazing.

Phoebe and Andrew have been amazing characters, the whole journey they take between secrets and dangers that are tied in with the whole crown thing.

The historical drama, romance and mystery are always a winning mix for me and make the pace never let up.

Now yes, on to Kearsley's backlist, because I love her pen,

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing such an amazing ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

I LOVE THIS STORY

Last year I discovered Susanna Kearsley's pen and since then I have been in love with her, so far I have only read three of her stories, but rest assured I will get to the rest.

This book as is the author's trademark is full of historical research, but despite the great detail she tells the story moving so seamlessly from fictional to factual, the reading flows as fast as ever.

I love how it transports me back to that Scotland of yesteryear and all that Royal Court movement, it has such atmospheric writing it's amazing.

Phoebe and Andrew have been amazing characters, the whole journey they take between secrets and dangers that are tied in with the whole crown thing.

The historical drama, romance and mystery are always a winning mix for me and make the pace never let up.

Now yes, on to Kearsley's backlist, because I love her pen,

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing such an amazing ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

In 1613, King James sends messenger Andrew Logan to Scotland with secret orders to arrest Sir David Moray, suspected of poisoning the late Prince Henry. Andrew, who must hide his Second Sight to stay alive, is accompanied by a court scrivener and his daughter Phoebe. Andrew is meant to frame Sir David for Prince Henry's murder but is unwilling to betray an innocent man. Phoebe Westaway dislikes Andrew, and their history makes it hard for her to trust him. But as their journey draws them deeper into the dark web of court intrigue, they might need the King's Messenger and his unusual gifts to stay alive.

We have a list of characters, as some are purely fictional and some are historical. King James is absolutely historical and had been paranoid of anyone who might have disparaged him or otherwise made him look bad. He believes Sir David Moray must be involved when rumors say Prince Henry died of poison and an old beggar seems to carry the late prince's words to the queen. Andrew is sent to secure him for the king, even though he is innocent and the king wants someone to blame. It's blatantly obvious to anyone who knows court politics, but Andrew is bound to follow the king's commands. David's extended family is planning to free him and would think nothing of killing Andrew. Phoebe is alone because her father is older and won't admit to weakness; the four of them are joined by a stable boy to help care for the horses which will be easy to find on the road from Scotland to England.

Phoebe never had much of a positive view of Andrew, though it grew worse when Andrew seemed at odds with the nobleman that Phoebe hoped to marry someday. She takes almost anything he does or says in the most negative light, putting them at odds constantly. Forced together and with strangers assuming they're married, Phoebe is forced to see Andrew in a different light. We also see glimpses into the lives that the royals and nobles had lived through David's stories about the late prince and the expectations of his own family.

This was my first Susanna Kearsley book and I'm shocked I haven't found her sooner. Lovers of historical fiction will happily fall into this meticulously wrought and crafted story. I was most impressed at the way Kearsley anchors her readers in the story, effectively using period appropriate language that only served to elevate the story and not bog it down in what might be considered otherwise archaic speech. There are moments of breathtaking intensity between Logan and Phoebe, who begin as rivals but grow into something more along the journey. I was immersed in the story and atmosphere and invested in each of our main characters. Highly recommended.

I was once again swept away and utterly captivated by a Susanna Kearsley story!

A perfect blending of historically accurate events and real people with the fictional. Full of rich history, vivid settings, deeply developed characters and a bit of magic, I did not want this story to end.

Please make sure you read the authors note about the characters at the end. I’m amazed by the amount of research, and found myself quite emotional learning of all the intricate ways this story met reality.

Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for the chance to review an advance copy. I know I will come back to this book again and again.

This book was well-written and entertaining. It was a quick, fast-paced read and I enjoyed it, though I would have liked there to have been more depth and complexity.

The story takes place almost entirely on a journey to Scotland where the King’s Messenger has been sent on a mission. King Jame’s son, Prince Henry, has recently died under suspicious circumstances. His advisor/closest friend is Sir David Moray, whom he trusted more than anyone else and has been with him most of his life, up until his death at age 18. Moray is soon to be in Scotland, and the king wants him brought back to London so he can be questioned (or blamed?) about the death.

Andrew Logan, one of the King’s Messengers, and Laurence Westaway, the king’s scrivener, have been specially chosen for this duty. Because Laurence is not well, his daughter, Phoebe, will accompany them to Scotland and back. Phoebe and Andrew do not like each other, but as in all good books, their relationship will evolve from dislike to curiosity to admiration and finally, to love.

There is an additional love story, almost as beautiful. To pass the time during their journey, a young apprentice messenger who is accompanying them is fascinated by Sir David Moray and often questions him about his life serving the prince. As the journey unfolds, Moray tells about a woman he fell in love with, but never married. Sir David Moray is an absolute gem—a man of honor and bravery.

There are fictional characters and real life characters. Some of my favorite characters from her past books make an appearance too.

One of the things I love about Susanna Kearsley books is how she includes the story of people from the past who are often ignored or seen only as background “fillers” by historians and writers. In this book, she used Phoebe and Andrew to represent some of these people. Reading the Authors Notes at the end of the book was poignant and inspiring, as well as eye opening (actually, almost shocking).

This book will appeal to readers who are interested in the romance from the story. Other readers will appreciate learning about King James, Queen Anna, Prince Henry and the other real life characters of the time. I found all of it fascinating.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I loved it so much, I purchased my own copy today. So, obviously, opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#TheKingsMessenger #NetGalley