Susuanna Kearlsey has done it again. A great historical fiction that draws you in to all the little struggles of her characters.

613: King James – sixth of Scotland, first of England, son of Mary, Queen of Scots - has unified both countries under one crown. But the death of his eldest son, Henry, has plunged the nation into mourning, as the rumours rise the prince was poisoned.

Andrew Logan’s heard the rumours, but he’s paid them little heed. As one of the King’s Messengers he has enough secrets to guard, including his own. In these perilous times, when the merest suggestion of witchcraft can see someone tortured and hanged, men like Andrew must hide well the fact they were born with the Sight.

He’ll need all his gifts, though, when the king sends Andrew north to find and arrest Sir David Murray, once Prince Henry’s trusted courtier, and bring him a prisoner to London to stand trial before the dreaded Star Chamber.

A story of treachery, betrayal and love…

A moving historical fiction love story set in early 17th century Britain, this was a well-written, funny, road trip romance with intrigue and memorable characters. There also a supernatural/paranormal element (the MMC has the gift of second sight) and it was good on audio narrated by Beth Eyre and Angus King. Fans of the author's past novels might recognize some familiar family connections but this is definitely okay to read as a standalone and while it wasn't my favorite by Kearsley it was still really enjoyable and recommended for fans of authors like Philippa Gregory. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review.

The audiobook was just as exciting to listen to as to read the book. Lovely voice intonations, well-read sentiments, and a story to die for. The cast of characters is just compelling, and there's a right blend of intrigue and romance in this book.

Love it

#netgalley #TheKingsMessenger

Audiobook Review 📖🪶

thank you so much partner @bookmarked @recordedbooks for the gifted copy and audiobook!

The King's Messenger
by Susanna Kearsley

About the book 👇🏽

What happens when an ordinary man is in service to a dangerous king, and undertakes the one mission that brings him to love and his true calling. In 1613, King James sends his messenger Andrew Logan to Scotland to arrest his late son's close advisor Sir David Moray. Accompanied by his aloof neighbor Phoebe Westaway, Andrew slowly untangles the real point of his mission—to frame Sir David for Prince Henry's death. But Andrew is unwilling to bring an innocent man into a treacherous betrayal.

Andrew's feisty and lovely neighbor Phoebe Westaway has always been stand-offish to Andrew, having heard malicious gossip against him. But as they journey to Scotland and back, Phoebe has the opportunity to see Andrew for the honorable and loyal man that he is, and her change of heart may open new possibilities for them once their mission is complete.

🪶 My thoughts:

Truthfully it took a couple of tries to get into this story but once I was in, I was in. I should preface this review to say that this is not typically a book I’d reach for so this was an experience. The author did a wonderful job setting the seen and atmosphere for the reading and listening journey and it was something I appreciated. While I enjoyed the flashbacks and various point of views, this story was more of a slow burn and I’m not sure I loved it as much as I’d hoped. I think the audiobook narration was fine and didn’t have an impact on my enjoyment of the story.

Happy reading 📖✨🪶

Set in 1613, The King's Messenger plunges readers into a world of political intrigue, suspicion, and treachery. King James, having unified England and Scotland under one crown, is reeling from the sudden death of his eldest son and heir, Prince Henry. Whispers of poison spread through the court, and in his desperation for justice-or perhaps revenge-the King sends his trusted messenger, Andrew Logan, to Scotland to arrest Sir David Moray, one of Henry's closest confidants.

Logan is not just a courier; he possesses the Sight, an ability that allows him to see truths others cannot. But navigating the treacherous landscape of royal politics is as perilous as the journey itself. Accompanying Logan is Laurence Westaway, a scrivener whose declining health forces his strong-willed daughter, Phoebe, to join the expedition. Phoebe has long distrusted Andrew, but as they traverse the rugged path from Scotland to London, their prejudices are tested, and unexpected loyalties are forged.

Kearsley's storytelling shines in this immersive historical novel, weaving multiple perspectives-Andrew, Phoebe, Sir David, and even Queen Anna, Henry's grieving mother-into a rich and compelling narrative. While the shifting viewpoints take some getting used to, each character offers a unique lens on the unfolding mystery, deepening the emotional and political stakes.

The novel is as much about honor and integrity as it is about deception and power. Through Andrew's moral struggle, Phoebe's evolving perspective, and Sir David's quiet dignity, Kearsley explores the idea that history is not just shaped by kings and courtiers but also by those who serve them. The atmospheric setting, from the misty Scottish Borders to the dangerous roads leading back to London, enhances the novel's tension and sense of authenticity.

A particular strength of the book is its nuanced portrayal of the era. Kearsley masterfully evokes 17th-century Britain, from the ever-present threat of witch hunts to the shifting allegiances within the King's court. The inclusion of Andrew's Sight adds a touch of mystical realism without overpowering the historical elements, creating an eerie yet believable undertone.

The romance between Andrew and Phoebe unfolds gradually, built on mutual respect rather than forced attraction. Their dynamic, initially antagonistic, grows naturally over the course of their journey, making their eventual connection all the more satisfying.

Kearsley's author's note is a fascinating addition, revealing the meticulous research behind the novel, including the real-life inspirations for Andrew Logan and Sir David Moray. As always, she brings history to life with her elegant prose and keen eye for historical detail.

Overall, The King's Messenger is a masterfully crafted historical novel filled with suspense, emotion, and a touch of the supernatural. Whether you're a longtime Kearsley fan or a newcomer to her work, this book is a must-read for historical fiction lovers. Highly recommended!