Quick Take

When the tall, athletic Edward of York seized the English throne in 1461, he could have chosen any bride he wanted. With his dazzling looks and royal descent, the nineteen-year-old quickly got a reputation for womanising, with few able to resist his charm and promises. For three years he had a succession of mistresses, mostly among the married women and widows of his court, while foreign princesses were lined up to be considered as his queen. Then he fell in love. The woman who captured the king was a widow, five years his elder. While her contemporaries and later historians have been divided over her character, none have denied the extent of her blonde beauty. Elizabeth Wydeville had previously been married to a Lancastrian knight, who had lost his life fighting against the Yorkists. When she tried to petition the king to help restore her son's inheritance, reputedly waiting for him under an oak tree, the young Edward was immediately spellbound. But this did not prove to be just another fling. Conscious of her honour and her future, Elizabeth repelled his advances. His answer was to make her his wife. It was to prove an unpopular decision. Since then Edward's queen has attracted extreme reactions, her story and connections reported by hostile chroniclers, her actions interpreted in the bleakest of lights. It is time for a reassessment of the tumultuous life of the real White Queen and her husband.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville: A True Romance

Introduction

In the world of historical fiction, few stories are as captivating as the romance between King Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville. This book, titled "Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville: A True Romance," explores the extraordinary love story of two larger-than-life individuals who ruled England during the late medieval period. The author, Amy Licence, delves into the lives of Edward and Elizabeth, shedding light on their tumultuous journey and the challenges they faced. With a focus on historical accuracy, this book offers readers a fresh perspective on the couple's relationship and their impact on English history.

About Amy Licence

Amy Licence is a renowned historian, specializing in the lives of women during the medieval and Tudor periods. With a particular interest in women's experiences and the connections between history and modernism, Licence has also dabbled in fiction and non-fiction writing. Her work has appeared in various publications, including The Guardian, BBC History website, The New Statesman, The Huffington Post, The English Review, and The London Magazine. In addition to her academic pursuits, Licence has appeared in TV documentaries such as "The Real White Queen and her Rivals" and "The Private Lives of the Tudors."

Analysis of Views

A Challenging but Fascinating Read: Readers praise the book for its ability to transport them into the world of Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville. While some find it challenging to read due to the extensive historical detail and numerous characters, they appreciate the depth of knowledge that Licence provides. The book offers a comprehensive account of their lives, including their triumphs and struggles, making it a valuable addition to any historical library.
A Sympathetic Portrayal: Many readers appreciate Licence's approach to Edward and Elizabeth's story. She presents them as complex individuals who were shaped by their times, rather than simply demonizing or romanticizing them. By exploring their motivations and actions within the context of their era, Licence offers a nuanced perspective that allows readers to understand their actions more fully.
A Love Match: The central theme of the book revolves around the love story between Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville. Readers find it fascinating to learn about their relationship, which defied societal norms and expectations. Despite the challenges they faced, their love endured, resulting in a lasting partnership that produced ten children together.
A Comprehensive Look at English History: The book not only delves into the romance between Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville but also provides a broader perspective on English history during their reign. Licence explores their impact on the Wars of the Roses, their court's connections to Arthurian legends, and their influence on English society. By offering a well-rounded view of their lives and times, Licence offers readers a deeper understanding of English history.
A Balanced Perspective: Some readers appreciate Licence's approach to presenting historical information. She acknowledges the limitations of available sources and presents multiple theories about events that occurred during Edward's reign. By offering multiple perspectives and allowing readers to draw their own conclusions, Licence fosters a sense of critical thinking and encourages further exploration of the subject matter.

Reasons for Recommendation

Comprehensive Coverage: The book offers a comprehensive account of Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville's lives, providing readers with a deep understanding of their reign and their impact on English history. With extensive research and meticulous attention to detail, Licence delivers a well-rounded biography that covers all aspects of their lives.
Sympathetic Portrayal: Readers appreciate Licence's approach to presenting Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville as complex individuals rather than one-dimensional characters. By exploring their motivations and actions within the context of their time, she offers a nuanced perspective that allows readers to appreciate their story more fully.
Fascinating Love Story: The central theme of the book revolves around the love story between Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville. Readers find it captivating to learn about their relationship, which defied societal norms and expectations. Their love endured despite challenges, making it a compelling narrative that resonates with readers.
In-Depth Historical Analysis: The book not only delves into the romance between Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville but also provides a broader perspective on English history during their reign. By exploring their impact on the Wars of the Roses, their court's connections to Arthurian legends, and their influence on English society, Licence offers readers a deeper understanding of English history.
Balanced Perspective: Some readers appreciate Licence's approach to presenting historical information, acknowledging the limitations of available sources and presenting multiple theories about events that occurred during Edward's reign. By offering multiple perspectives and allowing readers to draw their own conclusions, she fosters a sense of critical thinking and encourages further exploration of the subject matter.

Conclusion

"Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville: A True Romance" by Amy Licence is a captivating book that delves into the extraordinary love story between King Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville. Through extensive research and meticulous attention to detail, Licence presents a comprehensive account of their lives, exploring their triumphs and struggles as rulers of England during the late medieval period. While some readers find it challenging to read due to the extensive historical detail and numerous characters, they appreciate the depth of knowledge that Licence provides. The book offers a nuanced perspective on Edward and Elizabeth's relationship, allowing readers to understand their actions within the context of their time. With its comprehensive coverage of English history during their reign, this book is recommended for those interested in exploring the lives of these fascinating individuals and gaining a deeper understanding of English history.