Book: The Spanish Match

I'd like to mention a novel I finished reading. It's titled The Spanish Match by Brennan Pursell.
The novel tells the story about the future Charles I of England traveling to Spain in 1623. The reason: a marriage alliance with the Infanta Maria. The Prince is accompanied by his father's favorite George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham. Once word is out, there's a strong reaction in both English and Spanish courts. Others stand to lose or gain depending on this visit. Not to mention King James I is in debt. Why the betrothal never took place is subject of speculation. For this novel, Pursell tells why. The novel ends with a peek into the future for both royals. Based on historical record.

I enjoyed reading about a period in Charles I's life that is later overshadowed by his marriage to the French Princess Henrietta Maria. Charles's sister, Elizabeth, Queen of Bohemia and her husband Frederick have a cameo appearance. Buckingham...he's just trouble. (Plaidy's novel Loyal in Love provides an example of his behavior) Pursell provides a great description of the Spanish royal court and the reigning King Philip and his family. Just as the French court would be hostile to Marie-Antoinette a century later, Queen Isabelle (Henrietta Maria's elder sister) displays a similiar attitude towards the Spanish Hapsburgs. So yes, plenty of period politics! Because Charles is Anglican (as he would be described today) there's greater concern. At one point there's a debate about the Church of England and Catholicism which Charles takes part.

I came across this book advertised as a banner on catholicexchange.com.

To see Brennan Pursell's webpage: www.brennanpursell.com/
Scroll down a bit to see a full description of the novel.

Thanks for letting us know about it!!