Book Blurb:
It’s the year 1553, and the King of England, only fifteen years of age, is gravely ill and on the edge of death. His best friend pleads with him not to make the worst mistake of his brief reign by naming his cousin, also a teen, as heir to the throne while the King’s half-sister plots her return to London to seize the crown from afar. Caught in this bloody crisis of succession at the midpoint of the Tudor Dynasty is an unlikely circle of three friends still in their teens, a commoner and two royals, being swept by the terrible winds of history. Tom Canty, the pauper in Mark Twain’s beloved The Prince and the Pauper tells his tale some years later to the unknown “my lady.” It’s been six years since Tom first exchanged places with Prince Edward, now King of England. Edward introduces Tom, both fifteen, to his cousin, the lovely, idealistic, and strong-minded Lady Jane Grey. Tom finds himself caught between two very different worlds. He still lives in the poor parish of Offal Court. Although he keeps his friendship with Edward a secret, the advantages afforded him by being named Ward of the King set him apart. The boys of Offal Court try to drag him into a life of crime, but he strives to escape the legacy of his father, the scoundrel John Canty. Tom and Edward still look amazingly alike, and so Edward asks Tom to impersonate him again, and Tom can’t refuse. He watches through street-smart eyes and tries to keep Edward abreast of those around the young king, including his uncles, vying for power and influence. Further complicating Tom’s young life is his burgeoning love for the beautiful yet unattainable Jane. Soon illness seizes Edward, and he becomes even more dedicated to the English Reformation and Protestantism. Encouraged by his advisors, he names Jane, a devout Protestant, as his heir to the throne rather than his half-sister, the Catholic Lady Mary Tudor. Tom tries to warn Edward that this decision will have terrible consequences. Tom realizes that only a boy with his wily skills can aid his best friend and save his sweet Jane. Pour an ale for Tom, a glass of wine for my lady and whatever you fancy. Make yourself comfy and get ready for a good listen as Tom spins his tale of precious friendships, young love, dear loss and the discovery of oneself amidst the deadly betrayal and intrigue of the Tudor royal court.
Release Date: October 1, 2024 from Goose River Press - learn more at www.fredericfahey.com
Author Bio:
I have turned my attention to writing after 40 years as a medical physicist working, most recently at Boston Children's Hospital. I am a Professor of Radiology Emeritus at Harvard Medical School. In my academic career I have published over 170 articles and chapters.
I am now writing fiction and working on my first novel of historical fiction. I was born and raised in Massachusetts with a physics degree from the University of Massachusetts and a doctor of science from Harvard School of Public Health. I now live with my wife on Peaks Island, Maine.
Editorial Review:
"The Scoundrel's Son" by Frederic Fahey is a captivating and emotional story that weaves
together extraordinary adventures with the harsh realities of life in 16th-century London. The
book is narrated by Tom Canty, a young boy from a poor neighborhood, who experiences
incredible adventures alongside his friend Edward, the Prince and later King of England.
The central plot of the novel revolves around the identity swap between Tom and Edward, a
classic narrative device masterfully revitalized by Fahey. This role reversal allows the two
boys to experience their vastly different lives, paving the way for a series of tense and
revealing events.”One day, when I was nine years old and wandering about London, I found myself at Whitehall Palace in Westminster, hoping to catch a glimpse of the royal family, and there was Prince Edward in the courtyard right before my eyes. There was so much excitement to see the young prince that the crowd pushed me too close to the gate, and one of the royal guards proceeded to scold me and handle me a bit roughly. The prince took notice of this and objected to my harsh treatment. Before I knew it, I was within the palace walls in the presence of the prince.”
Through this quote, Fahey introduces us to the heart of a story filled with unexpected twists and deep emotions. Tom Canty's life is completely transformed by this adventure, and the book sensitively explores themes of identity, friendship, and courage. Although Tom comes from a poor and brutal environment, his good character and desire to help his family make him an unforgettable hero. In contrast, Edward's privileged life is revealed to be far more complex and challenging than Tom could have ever imagined.
Ultimately, their shared experiences provide both boys with valuable lessons about
responsibility and empathy. Throughout the novel, Fahey offers detailed descriptions of
16th-century London and life at the royal court, creating an authentic and captivating
atmosphere. Supporting characters like the gallant soldier Miles Hendon and the kind-hearted
Father Andrew add depth and humanity to the story.
The story begins with Tom deciding to keep his friendship with the king a secret to avoid the
pressure from those around him to ask for special favors. He only informs Robert, the shop
owner where he works, to explain his occasional absences. Robert, surprised, asks him a
simple but profound question: “What do a boy from Offal Court and the king of all England talk about?” Tom's response, that they talk about anything and everything, seems to suffice for Robert, who immediately returns to his tasks.
As the relationship between Tom and Edward develops, Edward goes through difficult times,
including the loss of Queen Kateryn, his stepmother. Her death profoundly affects Edward,
and Tom, also facing a shocking revelation about Father Andrew's death, tries to remain calm
and support his friend.
Amid the intrigues of the royal court, Tom becomes increasingly involved in the affairs of the
kingdom, even being asked by Edward to attend a Council meeting in his place. Here, Tom
observes tensions and conflicts between factions, including the harsh decision to execute
Lord Sudeley, Edward's uncle, for treason.
Fahey masterfully portrays these contrasts through vivid descriptions and carefully selected
details, such as the passage where Edward observes the festival: “Edward’s face shined as he
peered down on the celebration. There was music mixed with laughter and colorful banners blowing in the wind. Young girls wore flowers in their hair and small boys galloped on broomstick horses, chasing each other through the crowds. Barkers lured customers to their games of chance that were most likely rigged but no one seemed to mind. In the middle of the square, young folks grabbed hold of the long ribbons and danced around the May pole. “Your Majesty,” I proclaimed with a broad grin. “Welcome to the May Day Festival.” Edward watched it all with the wonder of an eleven-year-old child.”
This scene highlights the innocence and joy of childhood, sharply contrasting with the political challenges and tensions Edward must later face. A few days later, he is once again drawn into the political world.
Fahey subtly conveys the young Edward's anxiety and uncertainty, reflected not only in his
words but also in his compulsive gestures and physical details. The shifting atmosphere at the
Council, the increasing criticism of Somerset, and the plots surrounding the throne add
tension and drama to the story.
The novel explores not only political aspects but also personal relationships and the deep
emotions of the characters, such as Edward's friendship and loyalty to the narrator Tom and
his affection for Lady Jane. A poignant moment occurs when Tom informs Lord Miles of
Edward's grave condition, prompting him to visit. This scene underscores Tom's innocence
and vulnerability, as well as his determination to stay by his friend's side. Edward's death and
Lady Jane's ascension to the throne trigger conflicts and betrayals, with Tom, heartbroken,
trying to protect Lady Jane, demonstrating courage and ingenuity. As the story progresses,
Fahey delves into political betrayals and the fleeting nature of loyalty, culminating in Jane's
trial and execution. Her determination and courage are remarkable, and Tom’s journey with
Aly and Jane is filled with tension and suspense, highlighting their devotion. In the end,
Jane's sacrifice and its impact on Tom bring a profound note of courage and faith.
Frederic Fahey crafts an intense and emotional tale, drawing readers into the complex and
dangerous world of 16th-century England. His well-developed characters and authentic
portrayal of political intrigues and personal relationships maintain interest throughout the
book. Tom, Aly, and Jane plan to escape from the Tower using a pre-arranged boat and loyal
friends' support, but their plan does not go as intended. Jane, faced with the choice between
fleeing with Tom and staying, decides to accept her fate and not endanger the lives of loved
ones. Her choice exemplifies courage and sacrifice, emphasizing her faith and the destiny she
envisioned for herself. Tom is deeply affected by her decision but ultimately understands her
reasons. After Jane's execution, Tom finds solace in his faith and the precious memories he
has of her. He meets Lady Mary, Jane's sister, and shares with her the story of Jane's final
moments, bringing a glimmer of light to her painful memories. Lady Mary is deeply moved
by Tom’s confessions and thanks him for his love and devotion to Jane.
The book's conclusion is both emotional and contemplative, leaving the reader with a
bittersweet sense of pain and reflection on sacrifice and true love. Tom and Lady Mary
console each other, finding comfort in memories and stories about Jane, underscoring the
power of love and memory to transcend time and death.
"The Scoundrel's Son" masterfully blends history, drama, and human emotions, offering
readers a profound and memorable experience. Though its ending is tragic, it is filled with
hope and lessons, reminding us that the greatest sacrifices can bring the most valuable life
lessons. This captivating read provides a vivid exploration of England and will engage both
historical fiction enthusiasts and those who appreciate well-crafted, deeply human stories.
******
“The Scoundrel's Son” by Frederic Fahey receives 4 stars from The Historical Fiction Company
To have your historical novel editorially reviewed and/or enter the HFC Book of the Year contest, please visit www.thehistoricalfictioncompany.com/book-awards/award-submission
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