Good King Harry A Novel [Paperback]

Set against the sweeping backdrop of medieval England, Good King Harry brilliantly brings to life one of the most fascinating, conflicted monarchs in history: Henry V. Evoking the sights and sounds of fifteenth-century London, acclaimed author Denise Giardina artfully illuminates the double-edged sword of power--and the momentous events that unfold in the making of a king. . . .

A contemplative soul imbued with a compassion and mental agility beyond his years, young Harry, Prince of Wales--the future King Henry V--is marked early as the object of his father's scorn. For in the eyes of Lord Bolingbroke, his son is but a weak link in the House of Lancaster with a dangerous loyalty to the rebellious Welsh that must be broken.

As Harry reaches maturity, the battle within his heart grows fierce. Torn between the sensitivities of his soul and the uncompromising king he must become, Harry embarks on an odyssey rife with political agendas, sexual intrigue, and military combat--ultimately transforming into the accomplished monarch a volatile England so urgently demands. "Giardina tapped the same vein Shakespeare found so rich. She found the mother lode; out came more treasure."
--Los Angeles Times

"A BOOK THAT SHOULD DELIGHT NOT ONLY LOVERS OF THE HISTORICAL NOVEL, BUT ALL READERS WHO ENJOY FAST-PACED ABSORBING FICTION."
--Richmond Times Dispatch

"Giardina shows unusual skill as well in making psychological sense out of the dynamics of a complicated family situation in which a false move can cost one's life."
--The New York Times Book Review Denise Giardinawas born and raised in West Virginia. She is the author ofGood King Harry, Saints and Villains, Storming Heaven,andThe Unquiet Earth.

1. Why does Henry refuse to joust? Is it simply, as his father assumes, because Henry is too frightened after a traumatic childhood experience?

2. As a young boy, Henry's uncle counsels him to rell“+