Cecily: An epic feminist retelling of the War of the Roses

In 1431, England is at war with France for 100 years, and a corrupt government manipulates a weak king, naming Cecily's husband, York's loyal duke, an enemy. Cecily must save her family, but when the will to survive becomes ambition for a crown, will she risk treason to secure it? "Cecily" is an epic feminist retelling of the War of the Roses, praised for its masterful and majestic storytelling.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 10 March 2022
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

In the year 1431, a perilous period for women who dare to defy, England has been engaged in a protracted conflict with France for a century. Within the corrupt government of England, power-hungry men exploit a weak king, manipulating him and branding Cecily's husband, York's loyal duke, as an enemy. As the king's grip on sanity falters, plots to overthrow York gather momentum. It will require all of Cecily's courage and cunning to safeguard her family. However, when the desire for survival transforms into an ambition for the crown, will she risk treason to attain it?

Within the confines of closed bedchambers and on bloodstained battlefields, Cecily portrays war as women wage it. Cecily stalks the corridors of power, akin to a female Thomas Cromwell. This novel offers a captivating and insightful female perspective on the Wars of the Roses, a remarkable achievement.

Acclaim for Cecily: An Epic Feminist Retelling of the War of the Roses

Has the new Hilary Mantel emerged?

The Sunday Telegraph

Masterful and majestic; England's untold history unfolds through the life of another brilliant woman in this important novel. From its brutal opening scene to its dazzling final act, this novel blazes with brilliance on every page.

Chris Cleave, author of Everyone Brave is Forgiven

Entirely absorbing and utterly compelling. Fifteenth-century England springs to life, with all its political turmoil and bloodshed. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Caroline Lea, author of The Glass Women

Cecily prowls the corridors of power, reminiscent of a female Thomas Cromwell. A vividly female perspective on the Wars of the Roses - what a feat!

Imogen Hermes Gower, author of The Mermaid and Mr Hancock

Masterfully written and wholly immersive, with characters that come alive and breathe. Cecily is a force to be reckoned with. I loved every sentence.

Joanne Burn, author of The Hemlock Cure

Weight: 268g
Dimension: 127 x 196 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241990971