The Scoundrel's Son - by Frederic Fahey (Paperback)

About the Book

"It's the year 1553, and the King of England, only fifteen years of age, is gravely ill and on the edge of death. His best friend pleads with him not to make the worst mistake of his brief reign by naming his cousin, also a teen, as heir to the throne while the King's half-sister plots her return to London to seize the crown from afar. Caught in this bloody crisis of succession at the midpoint of the Tudor Dynasty is an unlikely circle of three friends still in their teens, a commoner and two royals, being swept by the terrible winds of history...Tom Canty, the pauper in Mark Twain's beloved The Prince and the Pauper tells his tale some years later to the unknown "my lady." It's been six years since Tom first exchanged places with Prince Edward, now King of England. Edward introduces Tom, both fifteen, to his cousin, the lovely, idealistic, and strong-minded Lady Jane Grey. Tom finds himself caught between two very different worlds. He still lives in the poor parish of Offal Court. Although he keeps his friendship with Edward a secret, the advantages afforded him by being named Ward of the King set him apart. The boys of Offal Court try to drag him into a life of crime, but he strives to escape the legacy of his father, the scoundrel John Canty. Tom and Edward still look amazingly alike, and so Edward asks Tom to impersonate him again, and Tom can't refuse. He watches through street-smart eyes and tries to keep Edward abreast of those around the young king, including his uncles, vying for power and influence. Further complicating Tom's young life is his burgeoning love for the beautiful yet unattainable Jane...Soon illness seizes Edward, and he becomes even more dedicated to the English Reformation and Protestantism. Encouraged by his advisors, he names Jane, a devout Protestant, as his heir to the throne rather than his half-sister, the Catholic Lady Mary Tudor. Tom tries to warn Edward that this decision will have terrible consequences. Tom realizes that only a boy with his wily skills can aid his best friend and save his sweet Jane." -- Publisher.

Book Synopsis

It's the year 1553, and the King of England, only fifteen years of age, is gravely ill and on the edge of death. His best friend pleads with him not to make the worst mistake of his brief reign by naming his cousin, also a teen, as heir to the throne while the King's half-sister plots her return to London to seize the crown from afar. Caught in this bloody crisis of succession at the midpoint of the Tudor Dynasty is an unlikely circle of three friends still in their teens, a commoner and two royals, being swept by the terrible winds of history.

Tom Canty, the pauper in Mark Twain's beloved The Prince and the Pauper tells his tale some years later to the unknown "my lady." It's been six years since Tom first exchanged places with Prince Edward, now King of England. Edward introduces Tom, both fifteen, to his cousin, the lovely, idealistic, and strong-minded Lady Jane Grey. Tom finds himself caught between two very different worlds. He still lives in the poor parish of Offal Court. Although he keeps his friendship with Edward a secret, the advantages afforded him by being named Ward of the King set him apart. The boys of Offal Court try to drag him into a life of crime, but he strives to escape the legacy of his father, the scoundrel John Canty. Tom and Edward still look amazingly alike, and so Edward asks Tom to impersonate him again, and Tom can't refuse. He watches through street-smart eyes and tries to keep Edward abreast of those around the young king, including his uncles, vying for power and influence. Further complicating Tom's young life is his burgeoning love for the beautiful yet unattainable Jane.

Soon illness seizes Edward, and he becomes even more dedicated to the English Reformation and Protestantism. Encouraged by his advisors, he names Jane, a devout Protestant, as his heir to the throne rather than his half-sister, the Catholic Lady Mary Tudor. Tom tries to warn Edward that this decision will have terrible consequences. Tom realizes that only a boy with his wily skills can aid his best friend and save his sweet Jane.

Pour an ale for Tom, a glass of wine for my lady and whatever you fancy. Make yourself comfy and get ready for a good listen as Tom spins his tale of precious friendships, young love, dear loss and the discovery of oneself amidst the deadly betrayal and intrigue of the Tudor royal court.

What others had to say: The characters from the beloved Twain classic ride again in this eminently readable, detail-rich, and altogether entertaining adventure of two boys learning about two worlds that are by turns hard and hope-filled. Read it!

-- William Martin, New York Times Best Selling Author of Cape Cod and December '41

A soulful twist on a classic tale, The Scoundrel's Son delivers tender romance and thrilling adventure.

--Stephanie Feldman, Author of Saturnalia

The Scoundrel's Son is a whirlwind trip through some great literary and historical "what if?"s. More than a sequel to The Prince and the Pauper (although it is that), the story brings Twain's street-smart protagonist deeper into the intricacies of the Tudor court, the politics of the Protestant Reformation, and his own burgeoning friendship with Lady Jane Grey. --Megan Cook, Associate Professor of English of Colby College.

Review Quotes

The characters from the beloved Twain classic ride again in this eminently readable, detail-rich, and altogether entertaining adventure of two boys learning about two worlds that are by turns hard and hope-filled. Read it!

-- William Martin, New York Times Best Selling Author of Cape Cod and December '41

A soulful twist on a classic tale, The Scoundrel's Son delivers tender romance and thrilling adventure.

--Stephanie Feldman, Author of Saturnalia

The Scoundrel's Son is a whirlwind trip through some great literary and historical "what if?"s. More than a sequel to The Prince and the Pauper (although it is that), the story brings Twain's street-smart protagonist deeper into the intricacies of the Tudor court, the politics of the Protestant Reformation, and his own burgeoning friendship with Lady Jane Grey.

--Megan Cook, Associate Professor of English of Colby College.

Editorial Review: https: //www.thehistoricalfictioncompany.com/post/the-continuing-saga-of-twain-s-prince-and-pauper-story-an-editorial-review-of-the-scoundrel-s-s

"The Scoundrel's Son" by Frederic Fahey is a captivating and emotional story that weaves together extraordinary adventures with the harsh realities of life in 16th-century London. The book is narrated by Tom Canty, a young boy from a poor neighborhood, who experiences incredible adventures alongside his friend Edward, the Prince and later King of England. The central plot of the novel revolves around the identity swap between Tom and Edward, a classic narrative device masterfully revitalized by Fahey. This role reversal allows the two boys to experience their vastly different lives, paving the way for a series of tense and revealing events."One day, when I was nine years old and wandering about London, I found myself at Whitehall Palace in Westminster, hoping to catch a glimpse of the royal family, and there was Prince Edward in the courtyard right before my eyes. There was so much excitement to see the young prince that the crowd pushed me too close to the gate, and one of the royal guards proceeded to scold me and handle me a bit roughly. The prince took notice of this and objected to my harsh treatment. Before I knew it, I was within the palace walls in the presence of the prince."

Through this quote, Fahey introduces us to the heart of a story filled with unexpected twists and deep emotions. Tom Canty's life is completely transformed by this adventure, and the book sensitively explores themes of identity, friendship, and courage. Although Tom comes from a poor and brutal environment, his good character and desire to help his family make him an unforgettable hero. In contrast, Edward's privileged life is revealed to be far more complex and challenging than Tom could have ever imagined.

Ultimately, their shared experiences provide both boys with valuable lessons about responsibility and empathy. Throughout the novel, Fahey offers detailed descriptions of

16th-century London and life at the royal court, creating an authentic and captivating atmosphere.

"The Scoundrel's Son" masterfully blends history, drama, and human emotions, offering readers a profound and memorable experience. Though its ending is tragic, it is filled with

hope and lessons, reminding us that the greatest sacrifices can bring the most valuable life lessons. This captivating read provides a vivid exploration of England and will engage both historical fiction enthusiasts and those who appreciate well-crafted, deeply human stories.

"The Scoundrel's Son" by Frederic Fahey receives 4 stars from The Historical Fiction Company