Brazen

Historicals are one of my all time favorite genres. I also love anything that deals with the Tudors. So when I found out there was a YA historical that took place in the 16th century around the time of King Henry VIII? I had to read it. My first read was TARNISH which tells the story of a young Anne Boleyn, before she was queen. I devoured the book in one setting. After that, I picked up GILT which tells the story of another young woman in King Henry's court. BRAZEN is the latest companion book in this series and it's just as amazing as the other two!

What worked: Ohmigod, EVERYTHING. There is court intrigue, friendship, fashion, dalliances, and hot court guys. We are introduced to Catherine Howard, the unknown wife of Henry VIII's illegitimate son, Henry Fitzroy. Though she's married, it's nothing more than basically a political arrangement. Problem is Catherine starts to fall in love with Fitz and the consequences of acting on her love can be deadly. One thing everyone knows is not to cross the King. Heads literally will roll. Rules are broken along the way with Catherine and her two close friends, Margaret and Madge in the name of love. Only later do they face the painful consequences.

Catherine, Madge, and Margaret are the first 'brat' pack of the 16th century. There's tons of gossip and flirting and the friends join right along. There's even a journal that they pass along to each other where they post poetry. Later the friends use the journal to give hope to each other when all seems hopeless.

The intrigue in Queen Anne Boleyn's court is haunting especially as it's right at the end of her rule. Longshore does an amazing job breathing life into these characters. I'm a huge fan of the CW series REIGN but this novel is so much better! The emotion and longing between Fitz and Catherine is heartbreaking. Catherine 'tries' to be brave and kiss him but when he pushes her away, she's shattered. Later though the two do come together by way of Catherine's brother. All the while they pray they won't be caught. Catherine's ambitious father though has other plans. Catherine is torn between being a pawn in a dangerous game that can only have deadly repercussions.

I kind of knew what would happen but that didn't mean I didn't hope there might be a chance these two would escape the harsh rule of Fitz's father and live in peace. Let's just say I was teary eyed toward the end. I love bittersweet love stories. This story is that and much more. Friendships and allegiances are tested. Mostly though the will to be free to love and not be a pawn of men is one huge theme that resonates throughout this story. Will Catherine be able to break free of centuries long tradition and be true to not only herself but the ones she loves?

I loved being swept away in the dazzling court life of Henry VIII and hearing the whispers of intrigue and courtly love. A must read for any fan of historicals.