Odd and compelling historical novel concerning the advent of Richard III, and how a quartet of special individuals, including, among others, "an ageless Welsh wizard and a German vampire," thwart a conspiracy to keep him off the throne.

The de'Medicis make an appearance, along with other contemporary figures. If you like historical fiction, especially that set in medieval Europe, it's worth the effort to locate this novel. (The fantastic elements are not overwhelming.) ( )

4 stars for setting, 3 stars for plot.

What if magic and more existed during the time of Richard III? How would he come to power?

The setting is exciting. John Ford keeps putting new twists on history and what could have happened. The overall plot however is a little bland and at the end I was left with a somewhat empty feeling. ( )

(wrong jacket above, but the paperback I got is very dull looking) Dull is the wrong thing for a book about a vampire infested alternate renaissance in which the byzantine empire never fell and Christianity never triumphed. With Christianity as one more sect among many, mages, vampires, Plantaganets and engineers intrigue and struggle.

It took a while to bring the disparate gang of characters together and build the world, but was worth the time and attention. The ending is abrupt and (to me) felt a little unresolved. ( )

The fifteenth century twisted a little. A wonderful tale.

http://nomiddlename.blogspot.com/2006... ( )