The Monmouth Summer
The Monmouth Summer by Tim Vicary is a historical fiction novel published by CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform on January 17, 2013. This edition spans 390 pages and is presented in English. Set in 1685, the narrative unfolds following the unexpected death of King Charles II and the subsequent rise of his brother, James II, England’s first Catholic monarch since Bloody Mary. The story centers on young Ann Carter, whose life is disrupted by the rebellion led by the duke of Monmouth against his uncle, forcing her to navigate the complexities of love and loyalty amidst a backdrop of political turmoil.
Readers will find a rich exploration of personal and societal conflicts as Ann grapples with her feelings for Robert Pole, an officer in King James’s army, while being betrothed to Tom Goodchild, a Protestant shoemaker. The novel delves into themes of duty, faith, and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals during a time of unrest. As Ann’s father, a rebel soldier, confronts his own fears, the narrative raises poignant questions about loyalty and the choices one must make in the face of adversity. This edition invites readers to immerse themselves in the historical context of 17th century England, where the stakes of love and rebellion intertwine.
Official synopsis Publisher
1685. King Charles II dies unexpectedly, and is succeeded by his brother James II, England’s first Catholic monarch since Bloody Mary.
English Protestants feel threatened, and King Charles’s illegitimate son, the handsome young duke of Monmouth, rises against his uncle in armed rebellion. The rebellion turns young Ann Carter’s world upside down. Eighteen years old, she is betrothed to Tom Goodchild, a Protestant shoemaker; but secretly loves Robert Pole, an officer in King James’s army, who offers to take her to London as his mistress. Ann knows it is her duty to marry Tom, but does not love him; so when he marches away with the rebels, she imagines him being killed – which would set her free. But she knows such thoughts are wicked; her father is a rebel soldier too, like all the men of her village. So who should she pray for, when musket balls start to fly? Which matters most – love or loyalty?
If God could see into my heart, she wonders, what would He tell me to do?
Her father, Adam, is a brave man tormented by fear. He has two fears: first, that he may be a coward, and run from the enemy; and second, that he is not one of God’s Elect, and will go to Hell when he dies. But like all the men of Colyton, ‘England’s most rebellious town’, he marches to war, risking his life for what he believes.
When England’s most notorious judge, Judge Jeffreys, is sent to punish the rebels, Ann and her father are faced with the hardest choices of all.
‘A masterpiece … it was as if I could hear the musket shots in my ears.’ Samantha J Morris, ‘Loyalty Binds Me’ historical review.
‘The characters are superbly written and the dialogue is absolutely perfect!’ David Fenn.
‘This book … launches right into the action and really had me visualizing the battle sequences as I was reading. It also has something for everyone (romance, action, history, drama) and pushes at the boundaries of loyalty and betrayal.’ Andria Saxelby for The Kindle Book Review.
‘A beautifully-written and well-researched work full of fascinating detail about life in 17th century England. I recommend this book without reservation.’ Jenny Twist, author.
‘I unhesitatingly recommend it.’ Darlene Williams Historical Review.
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