The Dark Rose (Morland Dynasty)

"The yardstick by which all historical novels are measured."*

In Cynthia Harrod-Eagles's worldwide bestsellers, the majestic sweep of English history is richly and movingly portrayed through the fictional lives of the Morland family.

It is 1501, and Paul, great-grandson of Eleanor Morland, has inherited the estate and has a son to follow him. But he fathers an illegitimate boy by his beloved mistress, and bitter jealously between the half-brothers causes a destructive rift that threatens to destroy them all.

Paul's niece Nanette has her own passions, and becomes maid-in-waiting to Anne Boleyn. At the court of Henry VIII, she witnesses firsthand the events leading up to the rift with Rome, her mistress's execution, and the further efforts of the sad, ailing king to secure the male succession. And through all the turmoil of Henry VIII's reign-from drought to floods, from religious reform to court intrigue-the Morlands find new ways to come together while the world seems intent on tearing them apart.

What Readers Are Saying:*

"Once again, the history of the period is cleverly woven into the fortunes of the family."

"A fascinating look into the public and private lives of courtiers in Tudor times."

"The stories are great, the characters are fascinating, but it is her historical bases for these novels that is so brilliant and makes them very readable."

"Ms. Harrod-Eagles must be one of the most talented and dedicated authors around, as the historical detail is impeccable, and when you couple that with the characters, it makes for compulsive reading."