philippa gregory war of the roses series

It is also a love story, often told with a great deal of poignancy. The history seems to be meticulously researched, the narrative replete with details that add depth, interest, and authenticity to the story.

The White Queen can be read from many perspectives, all of them rewarding in their own way. Each has been promised marriage to the eldest daughter of Elizabeth and Edward IV, ensuring that Elizabeth will be Queen Mother to the throne.

Henry Tudor of Lancaster eventually overthrows Richard III, but the War of the Roses isn't over. Edward V and his young brother Richard disappear behind the forbidding walls of the Tower of London, never to be seen or heard from again. He is quickly overthrown by his uncle, Richard III, who declares Edward IV's marriage to Elizabeth invalid, their children illegitimate. As Elizabeth is now the wife of the King, who represents York, she becomes known as the White Queen.ĭuring this turbulent period, Elizabeth and Edward IV have 10 children, including two sons, the eldest of which, Edward V, assumes the throne at only 12 years of age on his father's death. Elizabeth marries Edward in secret, but their union does nothing to unite the country. This civil war is recorded as the War of the Cousins, but is also popularly referred to as the War of the Roses since a red rose represented the Lancasters and a white rose the Yorks. The battle was against the Yorkist Cause, for which young Edward IV had just been crowned King. Married at a young age to Sir John Grey, she was soon a widow after Grey was killed fighting for the Lancastrian Cause. The White Queen covers a 21-year period in the life of Elizabeth Woodville. Review: Philippa Gregory creates a thrilling historical adventure tale that includes a still unsolved mystery of two missing princes in The White Queen, the first in the War of the Cousins (or War of the Roses) series.

Philippa gregory war of the roses series