Another fun read that I recently discovered on Netgalley, which is a well-known ARC reviewer website, was a delightful surprise. When I received the email confirming that I had been accepted to read this particular book, I was absolutely thrilled and filled with anticipation. The excitement that surged through me at that moment was palpable, as I eagerly anticipated diving into a new world crafted by the author.
Historical fiction, especially when it is based on or draws inspiration from actual historic events, has always held a special place in my heart. There is something uniquely captivating about stories that weave together fact and fiction, allowing readers to explore different eras and experiences while still being grounded in reality. The ability to learn about significant moments in history through the lens of well-developed characters and intricate plots adds a richness to the reading experience that is hard to replicate in other genres. I find that historical fiction not only entertains but can also educate, providing insights into the lives of people who lived during pivotal times. It allows us to connect with the past on a deeper level, fostering an understanding of the complexities of human nature and societal dynamics. Each page turned reveals not just a narrative but a tapestry of emotions, struggles, and triumphs that reflect the essence of the time period being depicted.
As I prepared to immerse myself in this book, I could already sense the layers of history waiting to unfold, each chapter promising to transport me to a different time and place. The thrill of discovering how the author has intertwined real events with imaginative storytelling is something I eagerly looked forward to, making this reading experience all the more enriching and enjoyable.
The Review
“The Pretender” by Jo Harkin is a historical fiction set in late 1400’s England following the life of John Collan (a.k.a code name: Lambert Simons, Simnel, and real name: Edward Plantagenet, Earl of Warwick). From my understanding this story was loosely based on a true story with little known facts, but it did not disappoint . For me, the way this way written bounced around it a bit giving a bit of a disjointed feel. However, I found this novel to be filled with MANY laugh out loud bits making up for any odd sequencing. This was a fun read with quirky characters and colorful language making this an atypical historical fiction worthy of a read. Thank you to NetGalley, Knopf, Pantheon, Vintage, and Anchor, and Jo Harkin for this e-ARC. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Overall Rating: 4 / 5 Stars
Finished Reading On: August 5, 2024
Book Information
Author Name: Jo Harkin
Publisher Name: Knopf, Pantheon, Vintage, and Anchor
Published Date: April 22, 2025
Final Thoughts
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