The King's Man

by Alison Stuart
The King's Man cover
Good Books rating 3.33
Historical Fiction
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  • ID: 6831
  • Added: 2025-12-05
  • Updated: 2025-12-05
  • ISBN: 9781760378141
  • Publisher: HarperCollins Australia
  • Published: 2015-09-01
  • Reviews: 3

The King's Man, the second book in Alison Stuart's captivating trilogy, delves into the lives of warriors burdened by their pasts and the women who help them heal. Set in London 1654, the story follows Kit Lovell, a disillusioned Royalist who spends his days cheating at cards and plotting against Oliver Cromwell. His life takes an unexpected turn when he saves Thamsine Granville, a penniless and friendless woman sentenced to death for an act of defiance. Kit's world of espionage and betrayal becomes increasingly complex as he struggles with his growing feelings for Thamsine and his loyalty to his king. Torn between love and duty, Kit must make a desperate gamble that could cost him his life. /n/n Alison Stuart's vivid historical detail and compelling characters bring this tale of intrigue and romance to life. The King's Man explores themes of redemption, loyalty, and the power of love to heal even the deepest wounds. As Kit and Thamsine navigate the treacherous political landscape of their time, they discover that love and loyalty can sometimes be the most dangerous gambles of all.

Reviews
Goodreads · Various · 2025-12-05
good 3.50

Readers on Goodreads praise the book for its engaging plot and well-developed characters, though some find the ending rushed.

Goodreads reviewers generally enjoy 'The King's Man' for its engaging plot and well-developed characters. Many appreciate the historical setting and the tension that comes with the espionage theme. However, some readers feel that the ending is rushed and could have used more development. The romance is often highlighted as a strong point, with readers enjoying the slow-burning relationship between the main characters. Overall, the book receives positive feedback, but there are some criticisms about the pacing and the resolution of the plot.

Quick quotes

    The plot is engaging and keeps you on the edge of your seat with its tension and intrigue.

    The characters are well-developed and the historical setting is richly detailed.

    The ending feels rushed and could have used more development.

Deborah Swift's Blog · Deborah Swift · 2016-10-04
good 3.50

The book is a captivating exploration of loyalty and betrayal, with a protagonist who is both disillusioned and heroic.

Deborah Swift's review of 'The King's Man' highlights the novel's exploration of themes of loyalty and betrayal. She praises the protagonist, Kit Lovell, for being a complex and intriguing character who is both disillusioned and heroic. The historical setting is richly detailed, and the tension between the characters is palpable. Swift appreciates the slow-burning romance and the dangerous world of espionage that Stuart creates. However, she notes that the pacing can be uneven, with some parts of the story dragging while others race ahead. Overall, it's a captivating read for fans of historical fiction, but it might leave some readers wanting more in terms of character development and plot resolution.

Quick quotes

    The themes of loyalty and betrayal are explored in a captivating and nuanced way.

    Kit Lovell is a complex and intriguing character who is both disillusioned and heroic.

    The pacing can be uneven, with some parts of the story dragging while others race ahead.

Dear Author · 2015-09-03
mixed 3.00

The book is a gripping tale of intrigue and betrayal, with a protagonist who is both charming and flawed. The historical setting is richly detailed, but the pacing feels uneven at times.

Dear Author's review of 'The King's Man' highlights the novel's strengths in its historical detail and the complex character of Kit Lovell. They appreciate the intrigue and the dangerous world of spies and traitors that Stuart creates. However, they note that the pacing can be uneven, with some parts of the story dragging while others race ahead. The romance is described as slow-burning and tender, but the reviewer feels that the resolution could have been more satisfying. Overall, it's a compelling read for fans of historical fiction, but it might leave some readers wanting more in terms of character development and plot resolution.

Quick quotes

    The historical detail is rich and immersive, drawing the reader into the dangerous world of 17th-century espionage.

    Kit Lovell is a charming and flawed protagonist, making him both relatable and intriguing.

    The pacing is uneven, with some parts of the story dragging while others race ahead.

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