This novel was set in 1613 in Scotland and England. Andrew Logan is a messenger for the king. He is sent to bring back Sir David Murray, who was a constant companion to the prince, from Scotland. The king wants to question him. Logan must bring David back in one piece while traveling with a woman who hates him and her sick father. The only problem is Murray's family doesn't want him brought back because there is more than meets the eye to this situation. Susanna Kearsley knows how to weave a tale, with research and imagination she brings history to life. Thank you to the publisher, the author and Netgalley for the opportunity.

Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for this ARC. My opinions are my own.

It is 1613 and Prince Henry, James I's eldest son and heir has tragically died. Rumours whisper that it might not have been by natural causes. Queen Anna is distraught, and King James is determined to punish the guilty.

Andrew Logan is one of the king's messengers and he's tasked with going to Scotland to apprehend Sir David Moray, Prince Henry's closest companion, and bring him safely to London to face 'trial'. Logan will not be travelling alone, along for the journey will also be an experienced scribe, Lawrence Westaway, who will write down anything that Moray says or does during the trip. Because Lawrence is elderly and of ill health, Westaway's daughter Phoebe will also accompany them. Complicating matters somewhat is the secret Logan needs to keep from everyone around him. He has the Second Sight, and can occasionally catch glimpses of things that will happen. In a time where the least unusual behaviour could have you accused of witchcraft, Logan dares not tell Phoebe that he can see her father's poor health will shortly lead to his death.

While the queen is mourning her son, she doesn't necessarily believe Sir David is responsible for his death. She wants him brought safely to her so she can speak with him, Logan's orders are to bring him directly to the king. Logan suspects that by arresting Moray, he may be complicit in the man's demise. It doesn't help matters that Logan and Phoebe don't exactly get along. She believes him to be a brutish and uncivilised man, swayed by the words of others in her acquaintance. He believes her to be a judgemental snob who has coldly rejected any of his overtures of friendship since they were younger.

The journey from Edinburgh to London is long, however, and the travellers spend a lot of time in each other's company. Logan arrests Sir David as his ship from France arrives in the port in Leith, and on their return journey to London, the group are also joined by a young stablehand who idolises Logan and wants to become a royal messenger like him. Sir David is obviously grieving the loss of Prince Henry deeply and it becomes obvious to everyone in the group almost immediately that he is an innocent man, and that taking him to London would be to commit an act of injustice. Their return to London will also be dangerous, as one of Sir David's Scottish kinsmen is pursuing them with a large band of his soldiers, determined to spirit his cousin away to safety.

Searching my blog, it turns out I haven't actually read a single of Kearsley's novels since 2014 when I finished The Firebird. It surprised me that it's been so long, I remember the ones I read quite well and liked all three. She writes very well-researched and engaging historical fiction, sometimes with a light supernatural element, such as Andrew Logan's occasional glimpses into the future in this book. Based on the plot descriptions of this book online, I was expecting more of a suspense book, possibly something involving espionage - which is not the case. In some ways, it's a road trip novel, only the mode of transportation is horses, and it takes a considerable amount of time riding from Edinburgh to London, even when keeping a brisk pace because rebellious Scotsmen are in pursuit. I actually preferred this quieter story to the one I thought would be happening, so in my case, it worked out fine.

In several of the Kearsley books I read in the past, there are two parallell storylines, one set in the past, one in the present day. Here, it's all in the early 1600s, chiefly 1613, but several of the POV characters, like Sir David and Queen Anna have flashbacks to previous events, mostly concerning Prince Henry. There is absolutely romantic tension between Logan and Phoebe, but it's not exactly a sweeping love story that dominates the plot. It becomes clear to the reader (who gets to read the POV of both characters) that a lot of their mutual distrust and animosity comes from misunderstandings early on in their acquaintance (and in Phoebe's case, that she's listened to people who spread malicious gossip, some of which is clearly untrue).

I was also worried, when I realised how much of this book deals with grief of losing a son (Sir David may not have fathered Prince Henry, but he cleary loved the young man as a son, probably much more than King James ever did), which since I became a mother is one of my biggest nightmares. Sir David and Queen Anna's flashbacks were sad, but thankfully there was nothing to emotionally destroy me.

The King's Messenger is out this week in the US. In the rest of the world, it's apparently been out since August 2024, so there are already lots of readers out there that share my view on the quality of this book. It was a lovely read, and made me determined to check out more of Kearsley's back catalogue before another decade passes.

The King’s Messenger is a book you do not want to miss. Addictive, with lines I’ve been re-reading over and over again, highlighting them for safe keeping. Unputdownable, I loved every page from start to finish. How Kearsley reimagines 1600’s Scotland is fascinating, blending in fictional characters with real ones, story-telling that has the reader captivated, seamlessly creating a novel that in a word is irresistible.

If you love historical fiction (1600’s Scotland/Britain) that’s well-researched, beautifully written, with a riveting adventure, an enemies-to-lovers and a slow-burn romance that is chef’s kiss, make sure to grab a copy of The King’s Messenger.

Plus, look at those sprayed edges. This book is gorgeous inside and out!

Run, don’t walk to get this one. It’s just too good to put down, and I’m already considering a reread.

A seventeenth-century road trip through England and Scotland for a group suspicious of each other and suspicious of their mission is at the heart of this latest historical from an author who brings history to life through her magical and suspenseful tales. Susanna Kearsley’s books found me several years ago when an ‘if you love… then you’ll like….’ type of list caught my eye and I’ve enjoyed each new release ever since.

The King’s Messenger was different from the start because there is no dual timeline format. It’s strictly seventeenth century. That said, it still feels like a split story because of all the perspectives that come into play delivering the story in pieces to heighten the suspense and reveal multiple sides. There are three main narrators (Andrew, Phoebe, and David) with a fourth (Queen Anna) getting some chapters, too.

Kearsley’s writing style has a rich tonal quality to it. I love her unique style and it feels old-school the way romantic suspense writers from decades ago used to write their stories around their central figures and the plot.

Andrew is a fascinating character for having ‘The Sight’ and being dyslexic. He is the King’s Messenger mentioned in the title who leaves London under the King’s order and heads north into Scotland to bring in Sir David Moray for questioning regarding the death of Prince Henry. Andrew grows more certain as the trip continues just what the real reason he was sent after Sir David Moray who may or may not have murdered his charge, Prince Henry. He’s not stupid and is aware of the political jockeying of king, other nobles and even the Queen. His gift of The Sight is not controlled and comes when it wills, but it does protect him from lethal danger as his group is in danger that journey back from Scotland. He knows that he must make the biggest decision of his life by the time he reaches London- follow his duty to the King and his job or follow justice and his heart when it comes to the truth of the prince’s death.

Feisty Phoebe and her father, a scribe, are along for this trip. Phoebe’s father is old and growing weaker so she will not let him go on the mission alone though she hates and distrusts Andrew. Phoebe buys what some other sketchy guy is selling about Andrew (and by sketchy, I could tell as a reader that he wasn’t trustworthy made me side-eye Phoebe for a while). So yes, we have an enemies to lovers romance brewing as forced proximity with Andrew makes her start to question everything she thought she knew about him. The romance is a significant element, but not the only main element and it brews slowly.

Furthermore, there is Sir David’s perspective as the situation slowly comes into focus. There is David’s perspective on what is occurring currently and his flashbacks of grieving memory to his time serving Prince Henry and their loving friendship forged through Henry’s short, eventful life.

The motley crew of travelers draw closer on the long road trip. What happened regarding Prince Henry and is happening currently is revealed culminating in an exciting finish to this over the road adventure. Loved learning there were true events included in this one in the extended Author’s Note afterwards.

So, another sensational outing with a Susanna Kearsley’s The King’s Messenger. Those who enjoy a romantic historical with a dash of magic and stunning historical backdrop should definitely pick this one up.

Review will be posted on 3/7/25
The year is 1618 and Henry, Prince of Wales, has died under suspicion. Many people suspect poison and many suspect his Gentleman of the Robes, Sir David Moray, as they were quite close. Curiously, he traveled to France right after Henry's death, which raises another red flag. They assign Andrew Logan, the King's Messenger, to track down Moray in his native homeland of Scotland and apprehend him. The King has also requested a scrivener to attend, who happens to be Andrew's neighbor, Laurence. He is ailing though, so his daughter, Phoebe, accompanies them, so she can help out her father. The issue is that Phoebe can't stand Andrew even though Andrew has secretly had a bit of a crush on her. While on the journey there's danger that lurks, the awkward moments between Phoebe and Andrew, dealing with Laurence and his health, and not to mention Andrew's second sight. Once they come in contact with Moray, things aren't as they seem though and Andrew is questioning his suspicions. Meanwhile, Phoebe and Andrew's relationship blossoms and it has Phoebe questioning her feelings towards him. Susanna Kearsley's The King's Messenger is rich with historical detail and while slower than her other novels, there is still much to enjoy for historical fiction fans.

Andrew's role is an interesting one in The King's Messenger. I liked how he was assigned this mission and slowly readers learn what happened to Prince Henry, although Kearsley takes a bit of creative license in this sense. His forced proximity to Phoebe and the slow burn of their romance was enjoyable in that it was like a road trip romance as they journey to Scotland. The addition of a his second sight also gives the plot a touch of magical realist. Lastly, I did appreciate the mystery surrounding Henry's death and wanted answers as well.

While I felt The King's Messenger was a bit slower than Kearsley's usual novels, I still enjoyed the the slow burn. The historical details that readers have come to love from Kearsley are present and as always, she truly brings the time period to life.

Have you read The King's Messenger? Is it on your TBR list? Are you a fan of Susanna Kearsley? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

I LOVE THIS STORY

Last year I discovered Susanna Kearsley's pen and since then I have been in love with her, so far I have only read three of her stories, but rest assured I will get to the rest.

This book as is the author's trademark is full of historical research, but despite the great detail she tells the story moving so seamlessly from fictional to factual, the reading flows as fast as ever.

I love how it transports me back to that Scotland of yesteryear and all that Royal Court movement, it has such atmospheric writing it's amazing.

Phoebe and Andrew have been amazing characters, the whole journey they take between secrets and dangers that are tied in with the whole crown thing.

The historical drama, romance and mystery are always a winning mix for me and make the pace never let up.

Now yes, on to Kearsley's backlist, because I love her pen,

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing such an amazing ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

I LOVE THIS STORY

Last year I discovered Susanna Kearsley's pen and since then I have been in love with her, so far I have only read three of her stories, but rest assured I will get to the rest.

This book as is the author's trademark is full of historical research, but despite the great detail she tells the story moving so seamlessly from fictional to factual, the reading flows as fast as ever.

I love how it transports me back to that Scotland of yesteryear and all that Royal Court movement, it has such atmospheric writing it's amazing.

Phoebe and Andrew have been amazing characters, the whole journey they take between secrets and dangers that are tied in with the whole crown thing.

The historical drama, romance and mystery are always a winning mix for me and make the pace never let up.

Now yes, on to Kearsley's backlist, because I love her pen,

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing such an amazing ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

In 1613, King James sends messenger Andrew Logan to Scotland with secret orders to arrest Sir David Moray, suspected of poisoning the late Prince Henry. Andrew, who must hide his Second Sight to stay alive, is accompanied by a court scrivener and his daughter Phoebe. Andrew is meant to frame Sir David for Prince Henry's murder but is unwilling to betray an innocent man. Phoebe Westaway dislikes Andrew, and their history makes it hard for her to trust him. But as their journey draws them deeper into the dark web of court intrigue, they might need the King's Messenger and his unusual gifts to stay alive.

We have a list of characters, as some are purely fictional and some are historical. King James is absolutely historical and had been paranoid of anyone who might have disparaged him or otherwise made him look bad. He believes Sir David Moray must be involved when rumors say Prince Henry died of poison and an old beggar seems to carry the late prince's words to the queen. Andrew is sent to secure him for the king, even though he is innocent and the king wants someone to blame. It's blatantly obvious to anyone who knows court politics, but Andrew is bound to follow the king's commands. David's extended family is planning to free him and would think nothing of killing Andrew. Phoebe is alone because her father is older and won't admit to weakness; the four of them are joined by a stable boy to help care for the horses which will be easy to find on the road from Scotland to England.

Phoebe never had much of a positive view of Andrew, though it grew worse when Andrew seemed at odds with the nobleman that Phoebe hoped to marry someday. She takes almost anything he does or says in the most negative light, putting them at odds constantly. Forced together and with strangers assuming they're married, Phoebe is forced to see Andrew in a different light. We also see glimpses into the lives that the royals and nobles had lived through David's stories about the late prince and the expectations of his own family.

This was my first Susanna Kearsley book and I'm shocked I haven't found her sooner. Lovers of historical fiction will happily fall into this meticulously wrought and crafted story. I was most impressed at the way Kearsley anchors her readers in the story, effectively using period appropriate language that only served to elevate the story and not bog it down in what might be considered otherwise archaic speech. There are moments of breathtaking intensity between Logan and Phoebe, who begin as rivals but grow into something more along the journey. I was immersed in the story and atmosphere and invested in each of our main characters. Highly recommended.

I was once again swept away and utterly captivated by a Susanna Kearsley story!

A perfect blending of historically accurate events and real people with the fictional. Full of rich history, vivid settings, deeply developed characters and a bit of magic, I did not want this story to end.

Please make sure you read the authors note about the characters at the end. I’m amazed by the amount of research, and found myself quite emotional learning of all the intricate ways this story met reality.

Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for the chance to review an advance copy. I know I will come back to this book again and again.

This book was well-written and entertaining. It was a quick, fast-paced read and I enjoyed it, though I would have liked there to have been more depth and complexity.

The story takes place almost entirely on a journey to Scotland where the King’s Messenger has been sent on a mission. King Jame’s son, Prince Henry, has recently died under suspicious circumstances. His advisor/closest friend is Sir David Moray, whom he trusted more than anyone else and has been with him most of his life, up until his death at age 18. Moray is soon to be in Scotland, and the king wants him brought back to London so he can be questioned (or blamed?) about the death.

Andrew Logan, one of the King’s Messengers, and Laurence Westaway, the king’s scrivener, have been specially chosen for this duty. Because Laurence is not well, his daughter, Phoebe, will accompany them to Scotland and back. Phoebe and Andrew do not like each other, but as in all good books, their relationship will evolve from dislike to curiosity to admiration and finally, to love.

There is an additional love story, almost as beautiful. To pass the time during their journey, a young apprentice messenger who is accompanying them is fascinated by Sir David Moray and often questions him about his life serving the prince. As the journey unfolds, Moray tells about a woman he fell in love with, but never married. Sir David Moray is an absolute gem—a man of honor and bravery.

There are fictional characters and real life characters. Some of my favorite characters from her past books make an appearance too.

One of the things I love about Susanna Kearsley books is how she includes the story of people from the past who are often ignored or seen only as background “fillers” by historians and writers. In this book, she used Phoebe and Andrew to represent some of these people. Reading the Authors Notes at the end of the book was poignant and inspiring, as well as eye opening (actually, almost shocking).

This book will appeal to readers who are interested in the romance from the story. Other readers will appreciate learning about King James, Queen Anna, Prince Henry and the other real life characters of the time. I found all of it fascinating.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I loved it so much, I purchased my own copy today. So, obviously, opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#TheKingsMessenger #NetGalley

Interesting and well-researched historical fiction with a touch of the supernatural. I found the relationship between the two romantic leads to be choppy and rushed, though.

I loved every page of this book. This is my first Susanna Kearsley novel, but if they’re all this good, I’m a fan for life!
The historical period (1613-1614) isn’t one I’m really familiar with. I enjoyed the setting and learning more about King James. I LOVED the main characters—especially Andrew since I’m a girl who likes the strong, silent type. Somehow, the author throws a curve in the first couple of pages, and you spend the first half of the book figuring out which character is good, and which one is really the bad guy. The story kept me guessing, and I loved the aspect of second sight because it made me think I knew what was going to happen—but I was wrong every time!
I devoured this book in just a couple of days. I highly recommend it if you love Susanna, or if you’re like me and have no clue! The King’s Messenger does not disappoint.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

This book reminded me why I love Susanna Kearsley. Her books take their sweet time and at first may appear very understated. But every little detail - a glance, a tone, an off-hand comment - it all means something. It just feels so decadent and rich.
I loved all five characters: Andrew the messenger, Westaway the scrivener, Phoebe his daughter, David the prisoner, and Hector the boy.
At the beginning, Andrew and Phoebe thought they hated each other. Along the journey, they realized that they were wrong. We watched them go from enemies to finally lovers, and everything inbetween.

Thank you to Sourcebooks for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.

The King’s Messenger is a thoughtful, richly detailed historical novel set in the early years of King James’s rule over a newly united England and Scotland. When Prince Henry dies suddenly, whispers of poison ripple through the court, and the King dispatches his trusted messenger, Andrew Logan, to arrest the supposed culprit in Scotland. Accompanied by scribe Laurence Westaway and his strong-willed daughter, Phoebe, the journey north is treacherous—not just in terms of physical danger, but also in the shifting dynamics between the travelers.

This one took me a while to get through. While well-written and immersive, it felt slower and quieter compared to Kearsley’s other works. The book leans more into political intrigue than romance, though the enemies-to-lovers tension between Andrew and Phoebe adds an engaging personal element. At first, I found Phoebe frustrating—her judgment of Andrew sometimes felt petty—but as the story progressed, I grew to appreciate her perspective and the dynamic between the main crew. Hector, in particular, was a great addition.

At its heart, The King’s Messenger is about integrity, truth, and honor—while also recognizing that duty and the heart don’t always align. In a world where nobility holds the power, Kearsley reminds us that history is shaped by those whose names were never recorded. Her author’s notes add another layer of depth, reinforcing the importance of telling the stories of the forgotten.

If you’re looking for an action-packed read, this might feel slow. But if you love well-researched historical fiction that immerses you in the political landscape of the time, this is a rewarding and thoughtful book.

The King’s Messenger by Susanna Kearsley is a captivating historical romance novel that weaves together the intricacies of love, loyalty, and intrigue. Set against the backdrop of 18th-century England, Kearsley’s rich, atmospheric writing transports readers into a world of political tension and personal discovery.

The story centers on the life of a young woman, who finds herself thrust into a web of royal secrets and dangers when she is entrusted with a vital mission. As the title suggests, the protagonist becomes an important messenger for the king, carrying with her more than just a message—she carries the weight of a nation’s fate. Along the way, she forms complex relationships with various characters, each bringing a unique layer to the plot. The mix of romance, suspense, and historical drama keeps the reader fully engaged as the stakes rise and the plot thickens.

Kearsley’s writing is elegant and immersive. She masterfully blends historical events with fictional elements, making the reader feel the tension of the period while also caring deeply about the characters' personal struggles. The setting is beautifully rendered, and Kearsley’s attention to detail in describing the social and political landscape of the time adds authenticity to the narrative.

The characters are richly developed, and the romance is slow-burn and tender. It is the emotional depth of the relationships, particularly the connection between the protagonist and her love interest, that truly stands out. Kearsley avoids overly dramatic tropes, instead offering a nuanced portrayal of love, duty, and sacrifice.

One of the strongest aspects of the book is its pacing. While the novel builds at a deliberate, steady rate, the tension never dissipates. The plot unfolds with just the right amount of mystery, and Kearsley knows when to introduce twists to keep the reader on edge.

That being said, some readers might find the historical focus a bit dense at times, but for those who enjoy historical fiction with a well-researched backdrop, this will be a delightful journey.

Overall, The King’s Messenger is an enthralling, well-crafted tale that combines the best elements of historical romance and suspense. Susanna Kearsley delivers a story filled with emotion, history, and intrigue that will appeal to fans of the genre and anyone looking for an immersive read.

Danger, romance and court intrigue in 17th century England

Phoebe Westaway lives in a comfortable home just outside London with her father Laurence, a scrivener who works for the court of King James I of England, and her aunt Agnes. She lost her mother and siblings to the plague when she was very little and is very attached to what family she has left. The compound where Phoebe and her family lives is home to two other families who each have a member that generates powerful emotions in Phoebe...Valentine Fox, the handsome son of a wealthy family of high status who Phoebe hopes to marry, and Andrew Logan, from a Scottish family who moved south ten years earlier when King James was named king of England and who has assumed his late father's role as a King's Messenger. Logan regularly infuriates Phoebe, and she avoids him when she can....she holds him in very low regard (an opinion based largely on Valentine's observations and opinions) although her father and aunt believe she thinks too harshly of Logan. Logan is ordered by the King to travel to Scotland to take into his custody Sir David Moray as he returns from France (Sir David was the closest confidant of the late Prince Henry, heir to the throne, about whose death swirl unpleasant rumors). Phoebe's father is tasked with accompanying Logan on the trip, but given his worsening health Phoebe is anxious about his making the journey and insists on accompanying him. Sir David allows himself to be taken into custody with little resistance but he has many kinsmen who are intent on rescuing him, certain that he will be unjustly blamed for Prince Henry's death upon his return to court; the journey back to London will be fraught with danger. As the members of the traveling party get to know one another, many realize that much of what they have been led to believe isn't true....including Phoebe, who discovers that neither Valentine nor Logan is the man she believed each to be.
An intriguing tale of historical fiction, with unscrupulous and ambitious court members scheming to advance their positions, a King and Queen who are as often at odds with one another as not (especially when it comes to their children) and who must weigh the loyalties of all who populate their world, and of course a smart and caring (if initially naive) young woman who comes to realize that the man she has long disdained is in fact a brave and loyal man who is wrestling with the dueling interests of king and morality. The story captured my attention from its opening pages and kept it throughout, combining a fascinating look at a period in history of which I knew little with well-developed and (mostly) likable characters whose lives have intersected. Fans of author Susanna Kearsley's other books will enjoy this addition to her roster, and readers of Sharon Kay Penman, Philippa Gregory and Diana Gabaldon would be remiss if they don't add this to their TBR list. Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for allowing me access to an early copy of this well-crafted novel in exchange for my honest review.

I absolutely loved this book!!
Historical fiction, political intrigue, fantasy elements, adventure and romance all wrapped up into a terrific story, set in Scotland and England in the early 1600's.

Andrew Logan, the King's Messenger, has been dispatched to Scotland to apprehend, arrest, and return Sir David Moray to the King for questioning in the death of young Prince Henry. Logan's companions for the journey are Laurence Westaway, the scribe, who will put to paper any and all comments of Sir David, Phoebe Westaway, along to aid her frail and ailing father ,and Hector, a young stable lad who joins their troupe in Scotland.

Their journey back to England is rife with danger, wraiths,and armed adversaries but also companionship, affection and humor as the days go by.

I loved the well written characters, the author's notes,the settings,the burgeoning romance between Phoebe and Andrew, and the intellect and compassion of Sir David. An awesome book!

Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark and net galley for allowing me the opportunity to read and review the digital ARC.

The cover of this book caught my eye first and then learning the time period for the book - I was in.

We get different points of view of the story from each of the main characters, which gives more depth to the story.

The reader gets a gentle romance mixed with political intrigue and lots of adventure.

The author’s note at the end is very comprehensive and shows how much research the author did.

If you are looking for a sweet historical fiction with adventure, romance and magical realism mixed in, this book is for you.

Thanks to @netgalley and @bookmarked for the advanced reader copy.

#kingsmessenger #susannakearsley