In fact, it turns out that her wiliness, the thing that sets her apart from other women, is the very thing that brings her to the attention of royalty. Even though these characteristics run counter to the rules society tries to impose. Instead, she rises because she is blunt, clever in business, determined, and fiercely independent. Unlike most royal mistresses, Alice doesn’t advance simply because she’s beautiful, talented, or otherwise able to catch the eye of important people. Given the circumstances of Alice’s early life, she grows up unwilling and unable to trust others and determined to rely on her wits alone to secure a future for herself and later her children. She simply has the sensibilities of a modern woman, living in the 1300s.Ībandoned at birth and left to the brutal rearing of a convent, it’s a rags-to-riches story. The portrayal of Alice in this book is quite different. ‘A gripping historical may belong to another edition of this title.Before this book, I only knew Alice Perrers as Edward III‘s “evil” mistress, vaguely aware that she was supposed to have been power-mad, greedy, and vicious. ‘Anne O’Brien has joined the exclusive club of excellent historical novelists.’ - Sunday Express ‘Better than Philippa Gregory’ - The Bookseller ‘Packed with drama, danger, romance and history.’ ‘A gripping story of love, heartache and political intrigue.’ ‘Joanna of Navarre is the feisty heroine in Anne O’Brien’s fast-paced historical novel The Queen’s Choice.’ One mistake and Alice will face a threat worse than any malicious whispers of the past. The fading great King wants her in his bed. Politics and pillow talk are dangerous bedfellows. Alice must balance her future with care as her star begins to rise – the despised concubine is not untouchable. Her fate is double edged loved by the majesties, ostracised by her peers. Power has a price, and Alice Perrers will pay it. Now you repay me.’ Led down the corridors of the royal palace, the young virgin is secretly delivered to King Edward III – to perform the wifely duties of which ailing Philippa is no longer capable. The Queen has a role waiting for her at court. Alice Perrers, a girl born with nothing but ambition. Philippa of Hainault selects a young orphan from a convent.

‘O’Brien cleverly intertwines the personal and political in this enjoyable, gripping tale.’

The King's Concubine by Anne O'Brien