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I would love to give this book more than 5-stars! "The Pretender" by Jo Harkin is a brilliantly written historical fiction novel that transports readers back to a tumultuous period in English history set in 1487. It focuses on the intriguing story of young Lambert Simnel. He was thrust into the center of a conspiracy as a pretender to the English throne, whose royal family claimed him to be the rightful heir during the reign of Richard III. Simnel, a boy of humble origins, is taken under the wing of powerful figures who groom him to be the lost Earl of Warwick, heir to Richard III's throne. Harkin’s portrayal of Simnel is both compelling and complex—he is not merely a pawn in the hands of ambitious men but a boy trying to navigate his identity amidst the lies and manipulations of those around him.

Hidden away his entire life and raised as a peasant farm boy (named John), he is suddenly plucked from his “family�, kept in secrecy, given a new identity (Lambert Simnel) and educated in royal life as he is transported to Ireland. It is there that he meets his love and one of my favorite characters, Joan, and where he is crowned King Edward VI. There are several problems, though - Joan herself is a problem, and King Henry VII is still in power and hunting the heads of all who claim allegiance to Edward (Lambert).

Harkin's storytelling prowess brings to life the tumultuous and complex political landscape of 15th-century England, Ireland, and Scotland with vivid imagery, meticulous attention to historical detail, and the most fantastic sense of laugh-out-loud humor throughout the book! This compelling narrative skillfully weaves together the personal struggles of the protagonist with the grandeur of royal court intrigue, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of historical fiction. I found myself fully embedded in Lambert's emotions over and over again.

The author's meticulous research is evident in historical details but she also includes so many surrounding descriptive bits that make the setting truly come alive. The characters are multidimensional, each with their own aspirations, dilemmas, colorful personalities, and faults, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative (and again - at times so funny while staying true to the time!). Harkin's prose is evocative and eloquent, effortlessly transporting the reader to a bygone era filled with political machinations, royal ambitions, and personal tribulations.

"The Pretender" is an immersive and captivating exploration of power, identity, and the human desire for belonging as you watch Lambert struggle with who he is and where he belongs. Harkin deftly explores the psychological complexities of her characters, drawing the reader into a world of conflicting loyalties, moral quandaries, and the timeless quest for truth and justice. Lambert has lived so many lives in such a short amount of time that he realizes he yearns for love and freedom to be himself, whomever he chooses to be.

Overall, "The Pretender" is a masterful work of historical fiction that will delight both history enthusiasts and lovers of engaging storytelling. Jo Harkin's skillful blend of fact and fiction creates a gripping narrative that is both intellectually stimulating, humorous, and emotionally resonant. This book is a must-read for anyone with an appreciation for richly detailed historical fiction and the enduring allure of royal intrigue.

A huge thank you to #NetGalley, #JoHarkin, #BorzoiBooks, and #AlfredAKnopf for the eARC in exchange for my honest review. I truly look forward to the release of this book to add a hard copy to my collection!