The King's General

By: Daphne du Maurier

Narrated by: Juliet Stevenson

A classic work of historical fiction from the author of Rebecca and The Birds.

Honor Harris is only eighteen when she first meets Richard Grenvile, proud, reckless — and utterly captivating. But following a riding accident, Honor must reconcile herself to a life alone. As the English Civil war is waged across the country, Richard rises through the ranks of the army, marries and makes enemies, and Honor remains true to him.

Decades later, an undaunted Sir Richard, now a general serving King Charles I, finds her. Finally they can share their passion in the ruins of her family's great estate on the storm-tossed Cornish coast — one last time before being torn apart, never to embrace again.

"Daphne du Maurier is a magician, a virtuoso. She can conjure up tragedy, tension, suspense, the ridiculous, the vain, the romantic." —Good Housekeeping

History yes, narrative interest no

We are told that the research was meticulous, and I believe it. The narrator is nevertheless absolutely tiresome and poor company after a chapter or two. She ticks reliably between sententious proclamations and an implausible devotion to the relentlessly malignant Grenville.

Fascinating

First, Juliet Stevenson is an amazing performer that would elevate any book. But in this case, the book itself was fascinating. It covers a historical time frame — the British Civil Wars — that I, as an American, was not overly familiar with. The protagonist is a strong, principals woman. Some notions date and casual sexism and antisemitism do rub. But being both a product of the early 1960s and a historical novel they can be managed and not deter too much from enjoying the story. Mostly DuMaurier has created an engaging couple. A true love for the ages. And a perspective of warfare from the civilian perspective, which felt fresh. Highly recommended.

History and mystery

Excellent book. I really enjoyed it. I am becoming a Daphne du Maurier fan. I have enjoyed Rebecca, My Cousin Rachel, Frenchman’s Creek and this.

Magnificent storyline!

Loved everything about this book! It was tragic and yet triumphant. The story is bold and beautifully told. I loved how Honor chose to live her life by her rules and did not regret her choices. Bravo!

I was surprised by how much I loved this!

I wasn't sure what to make of this story, but thought I'd give it a try. I knew that Juliet Stevenson is an excellent actress and narrator. The first couple of chapters I was concerned that my lack of knowledge about the English Civil War would impact my enjoyment of the book. And, in general I don't love reading books about the 17th Century.

After my initial apprehension, it turns out I was very wrong. The book is fantastic! Once you understand some basics of the time period and the character of Honor you'll be hooked.

DuMaurier's precision to historical accuracy, amazing timing and suspense-building, her choice of a disabled woman as the main character all led me on a fascinating journey. Stevenson is fantastic, and I can hear her say "Menabilly"--the estate where much of the action takes place--and it gives me chills of anticipation. It was a true delight and joy to read this book, and I HIGHLY recommend it to nearly anyone to read. Give it a chance, and be patient at first.