A Wilderness of Sea: The Rise of King Richard the Third (Laurence the Armourer)

Edward the Fourth seems secure on his throne and the realm of England is at peace. There are, however, undertones of discontent amongst the nobles as the Wydville family, promoted by Edward’s queen, Elizabeth Wydville, continue to accumulate great wealth and power. Edward’s brother, George, duke of Clarence has designs upon his brother’s throne. Queen Elizabeth fears for the inheritance of her sons should Edward be deposed and plots to destroy Clarence. Waiting in the wings is the countess of Richmond, lady Margaret Beaufort, wife of the powerful Lord Stanley and mother of Henry Tudor. He is in exile in Brittany with his uncle Jasper Tudor and there seems little chance that his mother’s long-term plan of his eventually taking the throne of England coming to fruition. Suddenly, all is confusion as Edward dies unexpectedly and his eldest son, Prince Edward is declared king. Then it is discovered that Edward’s marriage to Elizabeth Wydville was unlawful and the children of their union declared bastards. Richard of Gloucester takes the throne of England and the two boy princes, Edward and his brother Richard are placed into the Tower of London for their protection. King Richard’s precipitate action has thwarted the ambitious plans of more than one noble to seize the throne, and his nephews are in deadly danger. Laurence de la Halle, the king’s armourer and Sir James Tyrell are tasked with the job of keeping the princes safe from the dangers posed by those in the kingdom who would destroy them. Unfortunately, the finest armour, not even that of kings, can protect against fate . . .