Heroes, Kings, Cannons–Twists in Historical Fiction
We love to read novels that keep us turning pages, but what keeps you reading? Maybe it’s:
- A hero/heroine you identify with and root for
- A villain you love to hate
- An historical personality (king, queen, pope, rebel) you enjoy observing ‘in action’
But how often does technology drive a novel’s plot, influence the story’s winners and losers, and keep us on the edge of our seats?
Maybe you’ve read a fascinating novel or seen a movie with a plot involving technology, such as:
- Enigma encryption device used by Germany (and decrypted by Britain and its allies) during World War II
- Wright brothers’ airplane (1903)
- Printing press (1440)
- Oil painting (~1410)
- Compass (in wide use by 1300s)
- Magnifying lenses (1200s for weak-sighted, 1500s-1600s for microscopes and telescopes)
Recently, I discovered a fascinating new novel set in the reign of England’s Henry VIII, in which new cannons designed in Italy played a central role in the plot.
Henry VIII and Katherine of Aragon: The Cannon Conspiracy, by Maryann Philip (RealHistoryMystery-Press.com, ©2020)
My brief review:
- King Henry VIII of England orders a new type of Italian cannon to protect his life, family, and reign. Although this novel’s premise may sound dry and technical, it develops into an intriguing plot.
- The story is told from the point of view of the heroine, a young Italian woman who accompanies the cannons to England. She turns out to be a sharp-eyed sleuth who turns her attention to a mystery that proves key to Henry’s reign.
- Along the way, I learned more about the motivations of Henry’s enemies, both domestic and foreign, who sought to destroy him.
- The author’s well-developed portrayal of Katherine of Aragon especially intrigued me—a marked contrast from common stereotypes about her.
An interesting and enjoyable read!
Readers, please share your favorite novels involving a technological innovation!