Susanna Kearsley’s “The King's Messenger” transports readers to the heart of Jacobean England in 1613, a time marked by political unrest, courtly intrigue, and the precarious reign of King James I. Centering on the complex relationship between King James and his son, Prince Henry, Kearsley skillfully weaves a narrative that is rich in historical detail while maintaining a gripping plot filled with suspense, loyalty, love, and heartbreaking betrayal.

The novel’s protagonist and the King’s Messenger is a Scotsman, Andrew Logan. He’s tasked with serving a warrant and delivering to the King, the man accused of murdering 18-year-old Prince Henry - Sir David Moray, Henry’s Gentleman of the Robes since he was an infant. Andrew and his team, who travel with him (Laurence, his scrivener, and Phoebe, Andrew’s love interest) to capture Sir David, become entangled in the dangerous world of political espionage. As Andrew embarks on his long journey to return Sir David to court, he encounters unexpected allies and adversaries, leading to a series of enthralling escapades that kept me on the edge of my seat.

Kearsley's masterful storytelling brings the past to life with vivid descriptions and well-researched historical contexts. Kearsley captures the tension of the time, balancing the high stakes of royal politics with personal struggles and relationships. The portrayal of Prince Henry, with his youthful idealism and strained relationship with his father, is deeply human and adds emotional depth to the story. Also incredibly moving are several other relationships, such as the Queen’s love for her son, Henry, and her intense desire to keep him close, the profound sadness carried deep within Sir David over his loss, and the love story we see building for Andrew.

Kearsley excels at immersing the reader in the period, from the grandeur of the court to the shadows of political machinations. The novel’s atmospheric setting makes it a pleasure to read for history enthusiasts and casual readers alike, and the “About the Characters” addendum at the end of the book is an intoxicating treat. The dialogue and character interactions are authentic, breathing life into real historical figures for the time period and setting while introducing compelling fictional characters.

“The King's Messenger” is a beautifully written historical fiction that combines intrigue, emotion, history, and a love story you won’t forget. Fans of Kearsley’s previous work will certainly be captivated by this tale.

Thank you to #NetGalley, #SusannaKearsley, and #SourcebooksLandmark for the free eARC in exchange for my honest review of #TheKingsMessenger.

Let me first say that Susanna Kearsley is MY FAVORITE AUTHOR. EVER. No one will ever surpass her for me. I reread her books yearly. I loved her Winter Sea so much that I almost carry it with me everywhere, like a comfort blanket as a child does. I always recommend everyone read all of her books. But this newest one is absolutely superb. When "The King's Messenger" is published, RUN to the bookstore and stock up, because it truly is the best. What a fantastic work of breathtaking romance, Scottish history, and adventure! (Outlander fans rejoice!)
I truly say that I will read anything she writes, even the side of a cereal box. I am off to read it again, but it was so, so, so good.

Susanna Kearsley books are always an automatic read for me. The kings messenger was wonderful! Written in multiple pov and with just a touch of fantasy in a historical setting, and an enemies to lovers romance this did not disappoint.

This was the first book I've read of this author's, and I will now have to track down more books of hers to read! I really enjoyed this book, it was hard to put down (but one has to sleep sometime, even if it is for a couple of hours). I really like that although there's the romance, it does not take over the plot by any means. I also really enjoy the historical and political aspects of this book, it really gives the reader a vivid setting that our characters are navigating. She really put in the effort on research for this book, which really added to it's value, and I love it!!