3-1/2 stars

Andrew is The King’s Messenger. He goes wherever King James tells him to go to complete the King’s bidding. This time, Andrew is instructed to pick up Sir David Moray who is accused of being involved in Prince Henry’s death and bring him to the King to stand trial. Joining Andrew on this journey will be a scrivener instructed to write down everything Sir David says as well as the scrivener’s daughter, Phoebe, to help care for her ailing father. Phoebe and her father are actually neighbors of Andrew’s and the ongoing general ill will between Phoebe and Andrew is sure the add discomfort to the days ahead. The trip is filled with adventure and the traveling members get to know each other better, often changing opinions of each other, during their long journey.

I’ve read and enjoyed ten novels written by Susanna Kearsley so I was thrilled to receive a galley of this novel! This is the first new novel I’ve read by her in six years. As with her other novels, the characters are wonderful and the historic settings are very clearly imagined. The romance was satisfying as the relationship altered and grew between Phoebe and Andrew. (And had no detailed sexual descriptions, as usual, for those who don’t like that.) The rest of the people in their traveling band were particularly loveable and I enjoyed journeying with them through their adventure. Historically, this book wasn’t as rich as Kearsley’s other novels in terms of history I learned. But the real people were imagined by Kearsley in a way that felt true to their roles and time, and I was satisfied just learning about the people. Sadly, while I know some of these characters appeared in previous Kearsley novels, I read them so long ago that I can’t remember them. The aspect of fantasy in this one was fun and peppered into the novel just enough. <chef’s kiss>

If you like Kearsley’s novels, you’ll like this one! Although, this one doesn’t follow her typical formula of dual storylines which I’ve described in reviews of her other books. But the structure of this book was perfect for this story. I’m so glad she has published a new novel!

Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for allowing me to read this before it’s publication date of 3/4/2025!

I'll add my blog post link once it gets posted there.

COMING SOON: "The King's Messenger" - 5 Stars - Historical Fiction / Magical Realism

Susanna Kearsley does an excellent job of creating very real characters, in a historical context, while also including magical elements organically so that this story is very much a work of historical fiction with a touch of "other" rather then a fantasy story set in a historical setting. Kearsley does this in all of her novels and it's one of my favorite things about her work.

What Works: The characters in this story feel very real and the fact that they aren't speaks to Kearsley's ability to take detailed historical research and tease out people and places, events and dialogue that feel accurate and believable. She also always has some element of 'other', in this case with a main character having the ability to 'see', in flashes, the future. This detail is just part of the character, like his job, and his family relationships. I love the natural treatment of something considered unnatural. I also love the inclusion of real historic people in the story line.

Opportunities: This is a little bit of a slow burn as the characters trek towards their historically accurate futures. Granted, I was reading at a snails pace this fall, so this could partially be on me. I typically never have an issue with thorough backstory and character development though, and this could have been snappier, but might have lost some of the GAF that I wanted.

I'm always excited when a new Susanna Kearsley books comes out, and I will always read them, but I do wish she would write faster, but I'll be patient if it means that the level of historical research and accuracy continues. Quality over quantity.

As always, I appreciate the opportunity afforded me to have an early read by netgalley and Sourcebooks Landmark. The opinions in this review are expressly those of ButIDigressBookClub and are intended for use by my followers and friends when choosing their next book. #butidigress #butidigressbookclub #thekingsmessenger #susannakearsley #netgalley #netgalleyreviewer #arc #arcs #historicalfiction

The King's Messenger opens in England in 1613, the Prince of Wales has died recently and King James tasks one of his messengers, Andrew Logan, with arresting Prince Henry's chief advisor, Sir David Moray, to find out what he knows about the suspicious death. The bulk of the book follows Andrew, and his motley crew from the highlands of Scotland back to London after the arrest of Sir David, as they attempt to evade David's Scottish cousins who are determined to free David before he can be brought before the King. This is a complicated tale where all is certainly not as it seems, primarily because of political intrigue and corruption that is at play. Logan has the Sight but must hide it from his King for fear of the superstitions about witchcraft that would follow him.
The book is told in alternating chapters from the perspective of Andrew, as well as Sir David Moray, and Phoebe Westaway, the daughter of the scrivener sent to take David's testimony about working for the young Prince. We are given brief glimpses back in time from David's perspective about how he came to be part of the prince's household and the plot of corruption behind those who truly murdered the prince are slowly revealed. The plotting is tense and well written, and the conclusion was very satisfying as well. I enjoyed learning more about a time period I have not read much about previously, and in particular the author's note at the end of the book was very educational.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley for the electronic ARC of this novel for review.

Royal Messenger Andrew Logan is ordered to Scotland by King James the first in 1613 to find and take into custody, Sir David Moray, close companion, and advisor to the late Prince Henry. It seems the King and some of his counselors want Sir David Moray arrested for the young prince’s implied murder. Andrew knows that not only his mission is of the utmost secrecy, but his own propensity for Second Sight which has served him in ways not always easy to endure. On the long journey back from Leith, Andrew is joined by one of the King’s Scriveners and his daughter, Phoebe Westaway.

The Westaways live in the same area as the Logans where Phoebe and Andrew have long had a contentious relationship. As the difficult and often perilous journey progresses, both Andrew and his companions, which also includes a young stable lad, begin to question not only the veracity of Sir David’s supposed guilt, but the complicity of those who would see him hang. While on the long journey which includes having to avoid some of Sir David’s Scottish cousins who take exception to his detention, Phoebe begins to change her opinion of Andrew Logan whom she always thought of with disdain.

This story is told by four POVS combining fact with fiction to portray the life of a King’s messenger, Court intrigue as well as the Queen’s own often contentious relationship with King James, David Moray and Prince Henry’s history, and life in general in the late 1500’s and early 1600’s of England and Scotland.

While Ms. Kearsley weaves the known historic facts in the tale, it is the relationships of the characters that add vibrancy and interest to the time. The author’s skill at bringing these historical people so vividly to life will enhance the knowledge of and entertain well readers of this genre. In addendum, the author’s end notes, "About the Characters" make a fascinating supplement giving salient information to the historical aspects. They are well worth a read supplying more background to the story as well as giving examples of the historical characters’ own words.

Thank you NetGalley! This is my first book by this author, although several of her others have been on my TBR list for quite a while. Set in the late 1500s to early 1600s in England and Scotland. Phoebe Westaway lives a quiet life with her frail father who serves the King as a scribe. Obliged to accept a new assignment, Phoebe demands to come and attend to him on his mission. Andrew Logan, a huge, strong man, is the messenger her father is to attend during his travels to Scotland to capture and return Sir David Moray to the kingdom for trial. Sir David was the companion of the late Prince Henry. The story is filled with intrigue and relationships that evolve as the truths are revealed. Very well done and highly recommend,

The writing masterfully evokes the atmosphere of the 17th century while remaining accessible to modern readers. The story is a captivating blend of historical fiction and magical realism, and I was completely drawn into the mystery surrounding Prince Henry’s death and the gripping court intrigue that followed.

Andrew Logan’s character was fascinating, especially with the added layer of his Sight. This subtle fantasy element complemented the historical setting beautifully, enhancing the tension and stakes. The slow-budding romance between Andrew and Phoebe was tender and well-paced, adding just the right touch of emotional depth to the story.

What truly stood out to me were the many layers of love explored throughout the book—romantic, platonic, and familial. They added a richness to the narrative that was both heartwarming and heartbreaking.

Overall, The King’s Messenger is a beautifully written tale of treachery, betrayal, and love. If you enjoy historical fiction with a dash of magical realism, this one is not to be missed! Highly recommend.

This book immediately moves to my all-time favorites shelf. Susanna Kearsley has a gift for writing historical fiction that is both realistic and magical. The storyline and characters kept me interested and invested the entire time. Not only was this thoroughly enjoyable and fulfilling to read, but I feel like a better person for having read this.

It has been a bit (probably about 5-7 years) since I read a book by Susanna Kearsley and I will be going back to read those that I missed during my hiatus after reading this one!
Rating-4 1/2 stars
The King's Messenger is a historical fiction novel based during the reign of King James I, and includes his son, Prince Henry, his wife, Anne and Sir David Moray, Henry’s Gentleman of the Robes since he was an infant.
The main character is a King’s Messenger, a Scotsman, Andrew Logan., who is charged with serving a warrant and delivering to the King, the man accused of murdering 18-year-old Prince Henry . Andrew is assigned travel companions, Laurence, a scrivener, and his daughter, Phoebe, (Andrew’s love interest) to capture Sir David. So begins the political intrigues, back stories and relationships among the travelers and the royal family. It is told from 4 POV's-Andrew, Phoebe, Queen Anne and Sir Moray., which made the story more authentic and captivating.
Susanna draws you into the a journey filled with well paced revelations of the various characters pasts as well as the increasing danger as they travel, with plot twists and turns that will keep you engrossed.. Her vivid description of the scenery, historical details and character development will submerge you into the story. Susanna's author page was also so interesting with more historical facts and what was fiction in the book.
If you are looking for a rich historical novel with some clean romance, 3rd Sight, royal intrigue and suspense as well as loyalty, chivalry and friendship, I highly recommend this as a must read!
A deep note of appreciation to the publisher, Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley for the ARC, it was a pleasure to read. All opinions expressed are my own.

I've been waiting a long time for a new novel from Kearsley and this proved to be worth the wait. This new historical romance is set during the reign of James I and again features beautiful writing, meticulous research and lots of court intrigue. There’s a strong romance plotline and also a mystery.
Don’t miss the extensive historical description at the end!

An epic book that completely wraps up mystery, intrigue, magic, and romance in a neat packet. Susannas writing style is amazing. Her characters are full of depth, and their connections are on a tether sometimes.

I love her books and cannot wait for the next one.

#netgalley #TheKingsMessenger

“The King’s Messenger” was a thoroughly compelling historical fiction read. King’s Messenger Andrew Logan is tasked with arresting Sir David Moray on suspicion that he had something to do with Prince Henry’s death by poisoning. He must journey to Scotland to apprehend the suspect, aided by his gift of Sight, which allows him to see the future. Traveling with him is Laurence Westaway, an elderly scribe, and his daughter Phoebe, who refuses to allow her father to go unaccompanied. Phoebe and Logan have a tenuous relationship at best, forged by mutual dislike and a belief in the other’s pride and arrogance. Upon apprehending Sir David, the group must reckon with whether he’s truly guilty, and how much they will risk to do what is right.
There were many things to enjoy in this novel; it had something to offer for a huge variety of readers. It’s primarily a historical fiction novel, with many characters drawn from real people including King James, Prince Henry, and Mary, Queen of Scots. There’s also a delightful romance subplot, and Andrew Logan is as dreamy as they come. Andrew’s Sight offers just enough of a fantastical element to satisfy fantasy enthusiasts like myself. On top of all of this, the whole book is gorgeously written, well-paced, and thought-provoking. My small criticisms would be that Phoebe is initially a very interesting character but seems to lose some of her sparkle throughout the story, and I found the addition of Hector to the group irritating (though I understand his role in the plot and message of the story), which is how I often feel about the addition of a child character to an otherwise adult cast. Otherwise, though, this book was an absolute delight to read and I’d definitely recommend it!

As per usual Susanna Kearsley nails it with her beautiful prose and intriguing storyline. I love the research that I know she has to go through to get her books right and she never lets me down!

This is a fantastic novel, combining fictional and historical characters to create a wonderful road trip story with serious implications set in England and Scotland in the early 1600s.

King James has tasked Andrew Logan, one of the King’s Messengers, to find David Moray and bring him to London. David was a trusted confidant of the recently deceased Prince Henry, the king’s son and heir. Supposedly, the king wants Moray to come to London for questioning because he believes Moray may have information about the prince’s unexpected death. However, both Andrew and David eventually suspect that the king has a different, more lethal, purpose in mind.

Andrew has a scrivener (scribe) assigned to travel with him to make a record of all that David says on the journey. That scrivener is Laurence Westaway, a neighbor of Andrew’s. Due to Laurence’s poor health, his daughter, Phoebe, insists on accompanying them. Along the way to find David, the trio adds young orphan Hector Reid to their numbers.

As with all good road trip stories, the characters encounter challenges and experience personal growth in their travels. Andrew changes from David’s jailer to his protector and Phoebe finds her dislike of Andrews turning into respect, admiration and love. There is also has a paranormal aspect to the tale since Andrew has the Second Sight.

The King’s Messenger is a compelling story, built on a foundation of historical accuracy and wonderfully written characters to bring to life a fascinating, little known chapter of history.

Thanks to #NetGalley and @SBKSLandmark for the ARC.

Another Susanna Kearsley historical fiction novel and another winner. It isn’t my favorite of her books, but I am always drawn into the story and into the characters. The FMC definitely had her flaws but I enjoyed seeing her grow before my eyes as she learned more and more about those surrounding her.
I appreciate how significant events and facts are woven into the lives of seemingly ordinary people. History is written by the victors, so who are we to say what truly happened. Would recommend. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC.

Susanna Kearsley is a must read author for me and she did not disappoint! This is wonderful historical fiction with a touch of mysticism that drew me in from the first page. From London to Scotland, the adventures and mystery are nonstop. Told from the point of view of Andrew Logan, Queen Anna, David Moray and Phoebe, the characters were so well developed and the scenery magically described. The author's note at the end was one of the best I have ever read! Very highly recommended historical fiction.

Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley for a copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions in my review are entirely my own.

Another excellent historical fiction from Susanna Kearsley. It is well researched and a very good story. I did find myself wishing for more action, but it is not that kind of book. I thoroughly enjoyed the character development and the fact that I cared about each one of them.

3.5 stars, rounded down
It’s been ages since I’ve read a book by Susanna Kearsley, but I remember liking the few I did read. This one intrigued me because I haven’t read any historical fiction dealing with King James I. Kearsley is known for doing extensive research and this book is no exception.
The book comes down as much more of a historical romance than a historical fiction and how much you like it will depend on what you wanted. It deals with palace intrigue, as the death of Prince Henry was suspected to be caused by poisoning. I would have preferred more politics and less starcrossed love. To be honest, I learned more in her Author’s Note at the end than I did from the book itself. It was interesting to learn which of the characters were real and what was truly known of them.
Andrew Logan is one of the King’s Messengers, those tasked with traveling the kingdom fulfilling the king’s orders. His latest task is to ride to Scotland and bring back Sir David Moray, whom the king wants to question about the Prince’s death. Joining him on this venture is an aging scrivener and his daughter. Andrew has been blessed/cursed with Second Sight, so the reader needs to be prepared for that bit of magical realism as it figures heavily into the plot. However, it should be pointed out that the Scots were strong believers in the Sight, so it feels believable in context.
The story alternates between multiple POVs - Andrew, Phoebe (the scrivener’s daughter), Queen Anna and Sir David. Some sections are flashbacks to earlier periods which help to provide the necessary background about Prince Henry. The plot pretty much goes where you would expect with a romance. I was hoping for a little more suspense or political drama. Andrew comes across as a little too good, but he’s the perfect romantic hero.
My thanks to netgalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for an advance copy of this book.

This book was very captivating and immersive! I loved the world building and the story! There was a strong plot and overall I really enjoyed reading this book!

Susanna Kearsley’s books always have such a tone of realism and make her characters so relatable that even the most fantastic suggestions seem completely believable. And reading the afterwards with her in depth explanations for how the characters were developed and which parts of the story are truth or fiction just emphasizes how wonderful a storyteller she is.

The mixed emotions Logan has about his mission, the confession Phoebe receives from her father, the memories of David…. These all felt so real, but then were perfectly mixed with the adventure of their travels to London and the various characters they meet along the way. The gradual change in Phoebe’s perception of Andrew Logan was completely convincing. I highly recommend this book!

Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous court of King James comes a story filled with deceit, jealousy, and possible murder. Kings Messenger Andrew Logan is sent to retrieve David Moray so he can be held to account for the mysterious death of his charge Prince Henry. Along for the journey are scribe Westaway, his daughter Phoebe, and a young stable boy- all of whom harbor secrets and agendas. Told in alternating perspectives including Queen Anna, a full picture of events is woven together as tale of shifting alliances and the impact on ordinary people.