King's Fool: A Notorious King, His Six Wives, and the One Man Who Knew All Their Secrets
by: Margaret Campbell Barnes
Published by: Sourcebooks Landmark, an imprint of Soucebooks, Inc. (April 1 release)
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Reviewed by Barbara L. Fielder
Author Margaret Campbell Barnes first published this book in 1959. As a British subject, she engrossed herself in the history of the lives and loves of one of the most powerful royalty, King Henry VIII.
For those of you who are indoctrinated into King Henry VIII’s court, you know he was married six times and reigned over fortunes, property, his subjects and court with a ruthless, majestic and mercurial hand.
What you will find in this first-rate story is an insider’s view of royal life from the King’s jester’s vantage point. And what a perfect view he has.
This richly detailed and historically accurate book is based on the true- life story of Will Somers, the King’s Fool. You’ll discover his relationship with Henry VIII as he sat as his feet, entertained and shared personal accounts and insights with his Grace.
As a naive country lad, Will leaves all that he knows, including an employer who is generous and trusting, when he is whisked into the life as a court jester.
“With a seat near the throne and an ear to the floor,” Will learns firsthand about the most intimate details of the king’s dalliances, marriages, divorce, and lives of his six wives, Katherine of Aragon, Ann Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Ann of Cleves, Katherine Howard, and Katherine Parr.
What I find so endearing about this classic story is that Will is a genuinely decent man, who befriends those who need a hand, extends kindnesses and asks nothing for himself.
Is this court jester always at the beck and call of his Grace or does he have a personal life? Does he find love or is his life that of a monk? Does he retire or stay with the King during his entire reign?
Enjoy reading about the royal court from the inside out, as with the author’s other books, a worthwhile experience.
Armchair Interviews says: Fascinating point of view of this king’s life.
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