Entertaining Mr Pepys: A thrilling, sweeping historical page-turner

Deborah Swift's Pepys trilogy is a must-read for fans of Philippa Gregory, Alison Weir, Anne O'Brien, and Elizabeth Chadwick. The books transport readers to 17th-century London, where they meet characters such as Samuel Pepys and Nell Gwynne. The fusion of historical facts and fiction is seamless, and the books are praised for their eloquent storytelling and atmospheric scene-setting. The third book in the trilogy, Entertaining Mr. Pepys, brings to life the women in Pepys' Diary and features a dazzling and gripping finale during the Great Fire of London.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 464 pages
\n Publication date: 21 November 2019
\n Publisher: Headline Publishing Group
\n

Deborah Swift's acclaimed Pepys trilogy transports readers to a captivating period in history, reminiscent of the works of Philippa Gregory, Alison Weir, Anne O'Brien, and Elizabeth Chadwick. With her meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Swift brings the glitter and filth of seventeenth-century London to life, creating a remarkable and beguiling read.

The fusion of historical facts and fiction in the trilogy is so seamless that it is difficult to discern where reality ends and fiction begins. Readers are captivated by the vivid portrayal of the characters and the intricate details of the period, making it a favorite among historical fiction enthusiasts.

In the first book of the trilogy, "Entertaining Mr. Pepys," Elizabeth Bird Carpenter, a talented singer with a passion for music, finds herself married to horse-dealer Christopher Knepp, whom she suspects is marrying beneath her station. However, she is unprepared for the harsh reality of life with Knepp, who is a tyrant and a bully, leaving her with no life of her own. When Knepp leaves on a business trip, Bird seizes the opportunity to visit the theatre, where she is entranced by the music, the glitter, and glamour of the surroundings. She falls in love with the theatre and is determined to forge a path of her own as an actress, despite Knepp's forbidding it.

Based on events depicted in the famous Diary of Samuel Pepys, "Entertaining Mr. Pepys" brings London in the 17th Century to life. The characters are vibrant and well-developed, including the diarist himself and actress Nell Gwynne. The novel features a dazzling and gripping finale during the Great Fire of London, adding an extra layer of excitement and suspense to the story.

The second book in the trilogy, "The Other Boleyn Girl," continues the story of Mary Boleyn, sister of Anne Boleyn and the wife of King Henry VIII. Swift delves into the complex relationships and political intrigues of the Tudor court, showcasing the power struggles and personal tragedies that unfolded during this period. Mary Boleyn is a fascinating character, torn between her loyalty to her family and her desire for a greater life. She navigates the treacherous waters of court life, facing challenges and betrayals along the way.

The third book in the trilogy, "The Queen's Fool," brings the story to a close with the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. The novel explores the life of Bess of Hardwick, a noblewoman who became a close confidante of the queen. Bess is a complex character, driven by her ambition and her love for the queen. She faces numerous challenges and setbacks, but her loyalty and determination help her rise to prominence in the court.

Deborah Swift's Pepys trilogy is a testament to her talent as a historical fiction writer. She combines meticulous research with vivid storytelling to create a series that is both entertaining and informative. The books are a must-read for fans of historical fiction and anyone interested in the rich tapestry of English history.

\n Weight: 324g\n
Dimension: 130 x 198 x 34 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781786154156\n \n