White Hart Rising
Jane Keegan
Type: Beta project
Genre: Historical fiction
Word count: 75,000
When his grandfather Edward III dies, Richard of Bordeaux, a frightened, stammering ten year old, becomes king. But to prove he is worthy, he must face his fractious and ruthless family, boiling unrest in plague-ridden England, and his own fears and inadequacies. Can he surmount all that opposes him before it destroys everything and everyone he cares about?
Richard of Bordeaux is a child when the death of his father, the Black Prince, thrusts him into the heart of English politics. Shy, sensitive and burdened with a stammer brought on by grief for his dead brother, Richard grows up in the shadow of powerful uncles and his brilliant cousin Henry. As England reels from war, plague and rising unrest, Richard struggles to find his place as successor to Edward III.
Haunted by stories of failed and deposed rulers, Richard fears he may never become the strong king his father expected and his country demands. But during the Great Revolt of 1381, when rebellion engulfs London and his councillors falter, the young king is forced to confront his fears and take control. At Smithfield, Richard finds the courage to act, saving his kingdom and his friends, while taking the first steps toward the tyrant he will later become.
Jane Keegan studied History as an undergraduate before completing a Master’s degree in Medieval Studies. After several years in the City, she moved into the heritage sector and now works at Audley End House in Essex. She is currently researching the history of Walden Abbey, which once occupied the site. Jane writes fiction focused on late medieval England and aims to combine historical accuracy with a strong commitment to narrative and psychological realism. Her current novel, the first in a planned series of three, explores the personal and political tensions of Richard II’s early years.
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