Faithful Traitor

The Story of Margaret Pole

(Plantagenet Embers Book II)

by Samantha Wilcoxson.

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Margaret Pole is no stranger to fortune’s wheel. From her childhood as firstborn of the heir apparent of England, she was brought low as the daughter of a traitor. After years of turmoil as the Tudor dynasty made its roots, Margaret finds favor with her cousin, King Henry VIII.

Will the remnant of the York dynasty thrive under this tempestuous king or will Margaret discover that there is a price to pay for having an excess of royal blood?

Step into Tudor England . . . .

5 star Reading the Ages review: “A magnificent and moving book that appealed to me on many dimensions.”

5 star Discovering Diamonds review: ” This is a tale that leaves you drawing in breath at the end, wondering, if the fates had been spun differently, what this likeable family of York would have achieved had they been given that chance. “

5 star Readers’ Favorite review: ” I could identify with Margaret Pole in Faithful Traitor; the background was thoroughly researched and authentic. Samantha Wilcoxson takes you back to the Tudor court, describing clearly the architecture, the daily life, and the traditions demanded by those close to the royal family. In choosing the Pole family, the author has broadened the Tudor playing field, highlighting one of the involved families who are generally not mentioned too often in books of this period.”

A Word from the Author

While writing Elizabeth of York’s story in Plantagenet Princess, Tudor Queen, another fascinating Plantagenet woman came to my attention. Elizabeth’s cousin, Margaret, had also been born to a York prince, but was forced to live under Tudor rule.

Margaret Pole’s story is not often told, despite her unique position in history. She was a close friend to Katherine of Aragon, governess to Princess Mary, and mother to Cardinal Reginald Pole. Margaret is a complex character in a difficult situation. The shadow of treason hangs over her family; however, she is a noblewoman eager to raise her children to positions that their royal blood deserves. Fortune’s wheel often upends Margaret’s plans, bringing her as high as Countess of Salisbury and low as an imprisoned traitor like her father and brother before her.

I was also intrigued by the question of religion that becomes tantamount when Margaret’s cousin, King Henry VIII declares himself Head of the Church of England. Margaret is forced to balance her love for Queen Katherine, Princess Mary, and their Catholic faith with her loyalty to her king. Exploring Margaret’s life was an emotive journey that I hope my readers will enjoy.

(Samantha Wilcoxson, June 2018)