I have never been disappointed by a book written by Susanna Kearsley. Again, she gives us a 5 star read with history and romance. Her books are well written, researched and true to the time BUT the thing I love most........they are not politically invested in the times. These books skim the political of the times, make it understandable and don't throw a million names out for the reader to keep straight. The political aspects are kept fairly simple. This book is categorized as sci-fi and fantasy. I would disagree with that. While one character had visions, that does not place it in the sci-fi and fantasy category. So, far all you romantic historical fiction fans--don't miss out on this book. Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley. I am very appreciative of the complementary digital ARC that I received. This review is my opinion and not coerced in any way.

Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark for an arc of this book.

First off, Susanna Kearsley remains one of my favorite historical fiction writers. She is so good at what she does that I get absolutely engrossed in her books and it's so hard for me to put them down.

One of the the things she does so well is combines excellent research with her own imagination, and it brings both the real historical characters to life as well as the ones she invents for her books. In this case, the characters presented in this story were so well written.

An aspect of this story I really liked was the "mystery" surrounding the Prince's death, but I also loved that the main characters weren't just the royals. We get a lot of historical fiction focusing on the royals, but Susanna brings to light the people who weren't royals as well.

I really loved her author's note at the end of the book, it is a worthwhile read because it explains many of the excellent choices that she made in the process of writing this book.

Phoebe's growth throughout this book was incredible, because I feel like she mimicked the arc of how English people saw the Scottish after James came to the throne - lesser, savages, barbarians. Such as the story David relates about how the Romans viewed the Picts/Scots.

There were multiple meanings throughout this book, and I loved the themes it dealt with.

If you love historical fiction with a bit of second sight, of political intrigue and adventure, you absolutely need to add this book to your TBR. Susanna Kearsley does such an excellent job bringing the historical world to ours.

I really enjoyed the plot and characters in this historical fiction. And the amount of research that went into it was clearly evident. A good story to sink into!

Susanna Kearsley is one of the best historical fiction writers. Her books are all well-researched with captivating characters and great plots. When I saw this book was available I couldn't wait to read it!

Description:
In 1613, King James sends his messenger Andrew Logan to Scotland to arrest his late son's close advisor Sir David Moray. Accompanied by his aloof neighbor Phoebe Westaway, Andrew slowly untangles the real point of his mission—to frame Sir David for Prince Henry's death. But Andrew is unwilling to bring an innocent man into a treacherous betrayal.

Andrew's feisty and lovely neighbor Phoebe Westaway has always been stand-offish to Andrew, having heard malicious gossip against him. But as they journey to Scotland and back, Phoebe has the opportunity to see Andrew for the honorable and loyal man that he is, and her change of heart may open new possibilities for them once their mission is complete.

My Thoughts:
This is both a romance and a political drama, and I have to say I really enjoyed the romance part in this one. The portrayal of the King's Messenger position was fascinating with the things they are expected to handle. I really enjoyed the character of Sir David - he seemed like such a good person. Andrew Logan, of course, was the hero of the story and he was also a good man with good values. I did dislike the King very much for the way he treated people and especially his wife and children. I can't imagine what living in close prosimity to such a person would affect their lives - it had to be miserable. I enjoyed the glimpses of Scotland and its people. A great book!

Thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark through Netgalley for an advance copy.

I have always enjoyed Susanna Kearsley's books and this one has become one of my favorites. Set in the reign of King James VI and I, Phoebe Westaway is the grown daughter of a king's scrivener and neighbor to Andrew Logan, a King's Messenger. Phoebe took a dislike to Andrew from the beginning and when it becomes evident that she must accompany her ailing father to Scotland with Andrew Logan on the King's business, Phoebe is less than pleased.

Andrew Logan has been tasked to apprehend David Moray and bring him to London for questioning on the death of Prince Henry. It has been suggested that Prince Henry (the Prince of Wales) died by poisoning and King James is ready to set up David Moray as the guilty party. The journey from Scotland to London with the prisoner opens everyone's eyes and each character realizes they are not who they seem on the surface. Andrew and Phoebe become close and fall in love. They hear more of David's story and realize he is not the guilty party. But how do they escape the King's demands? With a few twists, all is solved in the end and Phoebe and Andrew find a way to make a life together.

Susanna Kearsley delivers another captivating historical novel, seamlessly blending mystery, romance, deception, a touch of magic, and the ever-present weight of duty and honor.

Set in 1613, during the reign of King James I, The King’s Messenger unfolds in the wake of Prince Henry’s sudden and mysterious death. Whispers of poison circulate, and in response, the king dispatches his trusted Messenger, Andrew Logan, to apprehend Sir David Murray—the prince’s longtime companion and protector—believed to be at the heart of the conspiracy. As Logan embarks on his mission with his companions, and is caught in the shifting tides of court intrigue, the truth proves to be far more complex.

Told through four perspectives— Andrew Logan, Phoebe, Sir David, and Queen Anne—this novel immerses the reader in a lesser-known chapter of history. The historical setting is richly drawn, transporting readers effortlessly into the era. I found myself engrossed, devouring the book quickly while recovering from the flu, grateful for such an absorbing companion.

A fascinating thread of mysticism weaves through the narrative, with Logan possessing the Sight—fleeting glimpses of the future that add both tension and intrigue. Phoebe, initially a difficult character to warm to, undergoes significant growth, making her journey particularly rewarding. Beyond the mystery and courtly drama, the novel explores themes of integrity, loyalty, and the burdens of duty—not just for nobility but for all walks of life. I especially appreciated the inclusion of Marcus Aurelius’ wisdom, which added depth to the characters’ struggles.

The King’s Messenger is a beautifully written historical novel, perfect for fans of any era of historical fiction. Highly recommended!

Thank you to NetGalley for the advance reader’s copy of this book.

This book has everything: history, mystery, and romance with a perfect sprinkle of magic. Kearsley's atmospheric writing is like a time machine she effectively transports readers to 18th-century England, immersing them in the sights, sounds, and emotions of the era. I love how she writes romance novels that feel so cozy and relatable, even when they're set against the backdrop of huge historical events! In this book, Logan and Phoebe are set on a very important mission from Scotland to London, and throughout the journey their romance blossoms in such a natural way. Okay, so maybe the 'enemies to lovers' trope wasn't totally necessary, but their relationship development was still very sweet.
All in all the history, the setting, the atmosphere... it all comes together to create this totally immersive reading experience!

Thank you to #NetGalley and the publisher for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review!

I always look forward to a new Susanna Kearsley. Historically informative with likeable characters. This could have used a bit more adventure, but it was great to learn about a new time period.

Susanna Kearsley did it again to me. She had me interested with historical fiction and that little fantasy/magical element that I love about her stories. First interested then hooked. I couldn't put it down. I loved this story. All the characters were well crafted and I felt as though I was walking right alongside them, not just reading about them.

I absolutely loved the MMC and the journey the FMC went on to understand him. I loved the pacing, the romance gave me all the feels, and the word crafting was wonderful and I just couldn’t put it down. This book was a 5⭐ for me.

Thank you NetGalley for the arc.

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley and voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.
I’m always excited for a new Susanna Kearsley novel, and while her more recent work hasn’t been up to par with my favorites, I still look forward to them. This was definitely a step up from her prior two efforts, which felt somewhat underdone, but still lack the magic of her best books, like Mariana or The Winter Sea.
Her attention to historical detail remains impeccable, and my interest was piqued when I learned this would focus somewhat on the Morays and Graemes a few generations earlier during the reign of King James I. The politics of the time are compelling, and I loved learning about the “King’s Messengers” and the fictional spin Kearsley put on them with one of her fictional characters.
The various characters and multiple POVs were the weak point. The story centers mostly on Phoebe and Andrew, but they (mostly Phoebe) aren’t particularly interesting. Phoebe is rather frustrating to follow, and while I’m all for an unlikable heroine, I just didn’t find her all that substantial. Andrew’s profession makes him more compelling, in his ties to the intrigue, being tasked with arresting Sir David Moray, and his Second Sight is also quite fun. The romance, however, felt rather underbaked, especially with other aspects feeling much more developed by comparison.
The other POVs with David and Queen Anne were perhaps the most interesting, as that’s where more of the action and politics is, and it just felt like the book had a bit of an identity crisis, unsure of whether it wanted to be a historical mystery or romance. That’s not to say it can’t be both, or have subplots of one or the other, but Kearsley, as a historical fiction writer, has usually been able to juggle strong mystery and romance arcs and give each its due.
As for plot and pacing, I’m in the weird position where it’s like the book dragged, but it was because of my lack of investment, not because anything needed to be cut. In fact, I’d have welcomed a longer book if some things in the character and romance department were fleshed out to match the historical and political intrigue and stakes.
I continue to love Susanna Kearsley for writing unique books and for giving me a love of Scotland in a way no other author has been able to. But on a craft side of things, I do wonder if I’m just outgrowing her as an author, or if something else is going on. But this book (like her others) is highly praised by a lot of readers, so I recommend checking out other reviews to decide if this book works for you.

Susanna Kearsley is one of my all-time favorite authors! "The King's Messenger" just confirmed that fact for me—it did not disappoint! Ms. Kearsley has penned a finely crafted novel, which is well researched and filled with rich historical detail. It contains everything I come to expect from a Kearsley novel, rich history combined with a little magic. The magic in this story is the fact that our hero, Andrew Logan (the titular King’s Messenger), has the gift of Second Sight. There is a present timeline, and we go back in time to see another character’s memories. Kearsley’s writing is beautiful, poetic, and full of amazing descriptions. You will want to savor every word! The story held me in such a thrall. I especially loved that part of it takes place in Scotland, and I learned so much new history, especially about King James, the royal family, and the politics of that time. The reader takes a journey with the characters through 17th Century Scotland and England.

The main characters start off as a group of enemies. Will they develop mutual respect, brotherhood, or even love as they travel and fulfill the king’s mission? The love story was so beautiful, and I loved the mystery as well. I almost started crying at one point because I felt the emotions so vividly. The story is at times heartbreaking and beautiful. I could not stop thinking about the book when I was not reading it, and I did not want it to end. It is safe to say I have already found a new favorite for the year!

Content: I give this book a light PG-13 rating. Some examples of the content are: astrology is mentioned, but the main character doesn’t believe in it; a man is said to get drunk; one of the major characters has the gift of Second Sight; a man is accused of defiling a woman; a woman is called a whore; a main character sees ghosts; grief and loss; mention of miscarriage (rumors that the woman caused it herself); the word “da*n” is used; a man loved a married woman; someone at court is married but still flirts with other people; brief reference to the wedding night.
TW: brief reference to r*pe; grief and loss of a child and loved ones; miscarriage; reference to su*cide; mention of r*pe in the author’s notes.
Spice: very brief fade to black scene; closed door.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

Susanna Kearsley is a masterful storyteller, and The King's Messenger is an immersive, enchanting tale set in early 1600s England and Scotland. Historical fiction fans will admire the story's perfect mix of action, romance, and magical realism. The author's note describing the novel's connections to real history added an extra layer of intrigue, as well.

I do miss the dual timelines that most of Kearsley's earlier works included (Winter Sea, The Rose Garden, Mariana). The modern perspectives were always a refreshing break from the heavier historical chapters.

Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the ARC. Normally I devour a Susanna Kearsley book but this one did not do it for me. The writing was fine and just think it was the mood of the story for me.

Susanna Kearsley is the queen of historical romance. Set in 1613 (with a some flashbacks), King's Messenger Andrew Logan is charged with apprehending Sir David Moray and delivering him to London to stand trial for the death of young Prince Henry. Accompanied by his young "squire" Hector, scrivener Laurence Westaway, and Westaway's daughter Phoebe, our hero begins to doubt his mission, and his ill feelings toward Phoebe.

Filled with adventure, intrigue, and yes, romance, "The King's Messenger" will delight fans of Philippa Gregory and Alison Weir. Author Susanna Kearsley certainly knows how to bring history to life, with her mix of fictitious and factual characters. I could tell the author meticulously researched both the time period and the people who lived in it. I liked how the story was told from the viewpoints of several different characters, adding depth to the plot. It lacked some of the magical elements that are more prominent in some of her other books (though there was still a bit of magic in this one, for sure), but I greatly enjoyed it nonetheless. Don't skip the "About the Characters" section at the end because it contains interesting factual information about the real people who populate this story.

Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the privilege of reading an advanced copy of this fabulous book. I'm already looking forward to Ms. Kearsley's next book!

I’ve been working on this review for what feels like weeks, yet I still struggle to find the words that do justice to the wonder of Susanna Kearsley’s The King’s Messenger. The novel flows effortlessly in every way—though I’m sure the author put immense effort into crafting it. While you’re fully immersed in one story, two others weave through the narrative, each as compelling as the last. With every page, you find yourself more deeply entwined in this world, until everything else fades away. Before you know it, you’re witnessing two people whose love unfurls gently, like a rose in bloom—so gradual, yet so beautifully poignant.

Like all of Kearsley’s novels, The King’s Messenger masterfully balances the weight of rich history with the tenderness of romance, weaving them together in a way that feels both seamless and profound. This is a book to savor—to sit by the fire, listening to the rain, with coffee or tea in hand, and simply lose yourself in its pages. Kearsley’s prose is enchanting, her characters unforgettable, and the world she creates is one you won’t want to leave. The King’s Messenger isn’t just a novel; it’s an experience, one that lingers in your heart long after the final page is turned.

This book follows multiple POVs: Phoebe, Andrew, David, and Queen Anna. The book is set in 1613 after England and Scotland were united under King James's crown. Out of nowhere, a young Prince Henry dies, which leads to rumors of poison and non-natural causes as he is young and healthy. The King believes to know who is responsible for his death or has knowledge of his son's death, so he sends his messenger, Andrew Logan, to go to Scotland and bring back Sir David Morray to face a trial in England. Andrew has to have a scribe come along on his journey, and he is assigned no other than his neighbor and father of the girl who seems to hate him, Laurence Westerway. Phoebe, Laurence's daughter, pleads with Andrew to let her come along on the journey as her father's health has been declining and she wants to make sure he is safe. The long journey leads to quite the adventure.

Susanna Kearsley is a master of historical fiction. I've read two other books by her: The Winter Sea and The Firebird - I loved both, and now The King's Messenger is no exception. She does such a good job of detailed research that is shown throughout her settings and characters throughout this book. I liked that there was also a little hint of magic in the book, which adds to the excitement of the story. At first, I didn't know if I would be a fan of the multiple POVs, but in the end, I quite enjoyed it.

"New York Times, USA Today and international bestselling author Susanna Kearsley explores romance, court alliances, and the limits of one's duty in this rich story of an honorable man in service to a treacherous king, and the mission that brings him to love and his true calling.

It is the year 1613, and King James is sending his messenger Andrew Logan into Scotland with secret orders to arrest Sir David Moray, close friend and advisor of the late Prince Henry. Secrets are second nature to Andrew, who must hide his Second Sight to stay alive. Joined by a court scrivener and the scrivener's spirited daughter Phoebe, Andrew slowly untangles the true purpose of his mission - to frame Sir David for Prince Henry's murder. But Andrew is unwilling to betray an innocent man.

Phoebe Westaway dislikes Andrew, and their history makes it hard for her to trust him. But as their journey draws them deeper into the dark web of court intrigue, Phoebe begins to suspect that she might have more need of the King's Messenger and his unusual gifts than she could ever have foreseen."

I love Susanna Kearsley and lately I've been obsessed with the 1600s.

It’s been a while since I read a historical romantic novel so I’m probably not a good person to write a review. However, I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review so here are my thoughts.

As always, I dislike different chapters being in the first person spoken by different people. That made learning the characters and their characteristics difficult.

The scenes were well developed and the history was interesting. I think this is really just not my genre.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC.

A fascinating story about a kings messenger who is tasked with the job of bringing an innocent man to the king for his certain death. The messenger, Logan, heads out in this journey with a scribe (Laurence), the scribe’s daughter (Phoebe), a mini-messenger (young Hector), and eventually find their man (David). David is a model prisoner, a gentleman, who knows a secret about the king. As they attempt to head back to England and the king they have several adventures and in usual fashion the story ends very well. There is so much more to the story, it’s a love story, it’s historical fiction, and it is a story about family and friendship. Four stars!
Thank you Netgalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the digital ARC.

The King’s Messenger by Susanna Kearsley is a captivating blend of historical fiction, mystery, and romance, beautifully woven together with the author’s signature style. Kearsley once again proves her skill at crafting an immersive atmosphere, transporting readers to the 18th century with vivid, rich detail. The story is compelling from the start, following the journey of an intriguing and strong-willed protagonist as she becomes entangled in a dangerous mission that could change the course of history.

What stands out in The King’s Messenger is Kearsley’s ability to balance historical accuracy with engaging storytelling. The historical setting is brought to life with such care and precision that you can practically feel the weight of the past in every page. The romance, though secondary to the mystery, is tender and carefully developed, adding an emotional layer that deepens the stakes of the narrative.

The pacing is steady, and while the plot isn’t rushed, it builds tension in a satisfying way. There are a few slower moments, especially early on, as the groundwork for the mystery is laid, but these scenes are crucial for setting the tone and allowing readers to truly invest in the characters and their journey. Once the plot picks up, however, it’s hard to put down, with twists and turns that keep you on your toes.

Kearsley’s writing is, as always, beautiful and evocative. Her skill in creating rich, layered characters and intertwining them with the historical context is what truly elevates this book. Fans of historical fiction with a touch of mystery and romance will find The King’s Messenger to be a rewarding and thoroughly enjoyable read.

While it may not be the fastest-paced novel, the careful attention to detail and the emotional depth of the characters make it a thoroughly engaging experience. If you’re looking for a book that offers both history and heart, this is one that will leave you thinking long after you’ve finished it.