England and Burgundy - 1461-1480

Edward Plantagenet has just taken the throne of England and become Edward IV. His younger sister, Margaret, is now considered a princess eligible for the political bartering between heads of state in the rest of Europe. But early on, she convinces her brother that she must have some say in choice of husbands. In the meantime, Margaret is enjoying her new-found status of a sought-after royal as well as learning all she can about being a future husband's dependable asset. What she doesn't plan on is falling in love with a married man.

Anthony Woodville, brother of Edward's new queen, is everything Margaret wants in a man. He's handsome, brave, and he shares Margaret's love of books and reading. They pair off in Edward's young court, although always discreet about the perception of their friendship. Margaret is disappointed to learn that Anthony is married, albeit not happily, but she also knows that her future lies in marriage to someone who can further her brother's causes. Despite that, she maintains steady communication with Woodville. Margaret also acts as a buffer between her older brother and their younger brother, George, who is jealous of all that Edward has, and whose relationship with the Earl of Warwick could someday jeopardize the entire country. George listens to his sister's sage advice, but what will happen when Margaret weds and must leave her homeland?

Historically, Margaret of York has always been considered an astute and influential political presence both at her brother's court and later in Burgundy after she marries the powerful Duke Charles. Little is known, however, of her personal life, and the author has walked in Margaret's shoes, so to speak, researching bits and pieces of this remarkable woman's private story. It's a fact that Anthony Woodville was sent as Margaret's escort to Burgundy for her marriage, although little is known about their relationship. DAUGHTER OF YORK is a fascinating account of what might have taken place between them, as well as a behind-the-scenes look at an intelligent, provocative woman.

Ms. Smith's meticulous research and her way of bringing characters to life shine through in this, her second novel of the last of the Plantagenets. Beautifully written, DAUGHTER OF YORK will have readers begging for more. I highly recommend this book as well as Ms. Smith's first one, A ROSE FOR THE CROWN, about Richard III.

Jani Brooks