Synopses & Reviews
Synopsis
Who fired the arrow that killed King William Rufus, eldest son of William the Conqueror, in 1100 AD? No one knows but in King of the Wood, acclaimed historical novelist Valerie Anand sets out a compelling and fascinating story that fits the known facts and provides a highly credible answer. William s addiction to vice and callous treatment of his subjects made him enemies on both sides of the English Channel, and provoked bitter resentment among noblemen, to say nothing of his disregarded younger brothers. His open homosexuality and disregard for religion also enraged the Church. As the story unfolds, we begin to understand just how unpopular the new king is and why someone wants him dead "
Synopsis
To William Rufus' corrupt and opulent court comes the young Norman Ralph des Aix - Eager to win his knight's fee from the new English king. But although fortune - and King Rufus - seems to smile on him, Ralph rapidly discovers that to be King's favourite is bewildering - and not always pleasant. And many feel that the rundown holding of Chenna's Tun, deep in the heart of the New Forest, is a poor reward for his services. In the remote heart of the great wood, Ralph and his passionate young wife, Sybil of Fallowdene, are relentlessly drawn into the growing conflict between the greedy sophistication of the Norman court and the dark world of the Saxon forest with all its hidden rites. A net of danger closes round Ralph, Sybil and the glittering, lonely figure of King Rufus. And to be truly lord of his own manor, Ralph learns that he must bear the ancient title, King of the Wood, with all its mysterious and barbaric responsibilities...