The Countess and the King

In this vivid portrait of Katherine Sedley, mistress of King James II, Scott (The French Mistress) unravels the intricate web of court intrigues that has long fascinated historical romance enthusiasts. Supposedly plain yet intelligent and seductively charming, Katherine grows up amid wealth, indulged by Sir Charles Sedley, her libertine father. Attracted to James, the married duke of York, Katherine embarks on an illicit relationship that continues after Charles dies and James becomes king, though he eventually feels compelled to end their scandalous relationship, which has produced a son who died in infancy and a daughter. Katherine is a strong protagonist—well-realized and confident in her flouting of convention—and provides a stellar centerpiece to Scott's fast-moving tale about the challenging world of kings, queens, and mistresses caught in a time of sharp political, and religious upheaval. (Sept.)