Step into the thrilling world of Conn Iggulden’s War of the Roses series, where medieval England’s bloodiest power struggles leap off the page with heart-pounding drama! This historical fiction saga plunges readers into the turbulent 15th century, where the Houses of Lancaster and York clash for the English throne. With vivid characters, meticulous research, and a knack for storytelling, Iggulden transforms a complex historical era into an irresistible adventure.
Unlike dry history books, the War of the Roses series blends fact and fiction to bring kings, queens, and rebels to life. Whether you’re a history buff or just love a gripping tale of betrayal and bravery, this four-book epic will keep you hooked from the first page to the last.
How War of the Roses Began
Conn Iggulden, a titan of historical fiction known for his Emperor and Conqueror series, turned his sights to England’s War of the Roses after tackling the lives of Julius Caesar and Genghis Khan. Inspired by the period’s raw intensity and intricate politics, Iggulden began the series with Stormbird in 2013, aiming to illuminate the lesser-known early years of the conflict. His goal? To craft a narrative that felt as immediate as a modern political thriller while staying true to the era’s chaotic spirit.
Iggulden’s research dives deep into primary sources, ensuring historical figures like Henry VI and Margaret of Anjou feel authentic. Yet, he weaves in fictional characters like spymaster Derry Brewer to add intrigue and relatability, making the series a bridge between scholarly accuracy and page-turning excitement.
The Heart of War of the Roses
The series spans four novels: Stormbird (2013), Margaret of Anjou (also called Trinity, 2014), Bloodline (2015), and Ravenspur: Rise of the Tudors (2016). Stormbird kicks off in 1437, with the frail King Henry VI struggling to hold England’s French territories as rebellion brews at home. Margaret of Anjou follows the fierce queen defending her husband’s throne against the ambitious Richard, Duke of York. Bloodline escalates the stakes as York’s sons, led by Edward of March, fight for the crown in brutal battles like Towton. Finally, Ravenspur charts Edward’s exile and return, culminating in the rise of the Tudor dynasty.
Themes of loyalty, ambition, and the cost of power run deep. Iggulden masterfully captures the era’s gritty realism—think muddy battlefields and whispered conspiracies—while exploring how ordinary people, from soldiers to spies, shape history. The series’ style is cinematic, with sweeping battle scenes and intimate character moments, set against a vividly rendered medieval England. Fans of Game of Thrones will spot parallels, as George R.R. Martin drew inspiration from the same historical feud.
What sets the series apart is its balance of historical fidelity and emotional depth. Iggulden breathes life into figures like Margaret of Anjou, portraying her as a fierce protector rather than a caricature, while battles like Towton feel both epic and personal. It’s history with a pulse, making the 15th century feel urgent and alive.
Why War of the Roses Resonates
The War of the Roses series has captivated readers and critics for its ability to make a distant era accessible and thrilling. Its influence extends beyond historical fiction, inspiring fans to dive into England’s past and drawing comparisons to epic fantasies like Game of Thrones. Iggulden’s knack for blending rigorous research with human drama has earned praise from outlets like the Daily Express and Kirkus Reviews, cementing his status as a master storyteller.
The series’ lasting appeal lies in its timeless themes—power struggles, family loyalty, and the chaos of war resonate as much today as they did in the 1400s. For readers, it’s a chance to explore a pivotal moment in British history through a lens that’s both educational and wildly entertaining.
- Publication Years: 2013–2016
- Number of Books: 4
- Setting: 15th-century England
- Genre: Historical Fiction
Grab Stormbird and dive into the War of the Roses’ gripping world of kings, rebels, and epic battles today!