The Scandalous Duchess
The Scandalous Duchess by Anne O’Brien, published by Harlequin MIRA in 2015, is a historical fiction novel that spans 544 pages. The story follows Lady Katherine Swynford, a widow who seeks a position in the household of the powerful Prince John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, in hopes of escaping her destitution. However, her life takes a dramatic turn when she becomes embroiled in a scandalous affair with the Duke, challenging her values and thrusting her into the complexities of royal life.
Readers will find a narrative rich in political intrigue and romance, as Katherine navigates the treacherous waters of court life while facing accusations and societal judgment. The book explores themes of ambition and the sacrifices made for love, set against the backdrop of medieval England. With its focus on the intertwining of personal and political dynamics, The Scandalous Duchess presents a vivid portrayal of a woman caught in the shadows of power and ambition.
Official synopsis Publisher
A Sunday Times Bestseller England’s Forgotten Queens
‘O’Brien cleverly intertwines the personal and political in this enjoyable, gripping tale.’
-The Times
Widow Lady Katherine Swynford presents herself for a role in the household of merciless royal prince John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, hoping to end her destitution. But the Duke’s scandalous proposition leaves her life of pious integrity reeling…
Seduced by the glare of royal adoration, Katherine becomes John’s mistress. She will leave behind everything she has stood for to play second fiddle to his young wife and ruthless ambition. She will live in the shadows of the most powerful man in England in the hope of a love greater than propriety.
But soon the court whispers – whore, harlot, vile temptress – reach the ears of not just John’s bride but his most dangerous political enemies. As the Plantagenet prince is accused of bringing England to its knees, who better to blame than shameless she-devil Katherine Swynford?
Dragged from the shadows, Katherine must answer for her sins.
Praise for Anne O’Brien
‘O’Brien cleverly intertwines the personal and political in this enjoyable, gripping tale.’
– The Times
‘A gem of a subject … O’Brien is a terrific storyteller’
– Daily Telegraph
‘Joanna of Navarre is the feisty heroine in Anne O’Brien’s fast-paced historical novel The Queen’s Choice.’
-Good Housekeeping
‘A gripping story of love, heartache and political intrigue.’
-Woman & Home
‘Packed with drama, danger, romance and history.’
-Pam Norfolk, for the Press Association
‘Better than Philippa Gregory’ – The Bookseller
‘Anne O’Brien has joined the exclusive club of excellent historical novelists.’ – Sunday Express
‘A gripping historical drama.’
-Bella
‘This book has everything – royalty, scandal, fascinating historical politics and ultimately, the shaping of the woman who founded the Tudors.’ – Cosmopolitan
www.anneobrien.co.uk
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