This is the fifth book in the Secrets of the Tudor Court series by Kate Emerson. This time, Kate recreates a character since the 'real' king's damsel is unknown. Kate introduces Thomasine Lodge, who is the heiress of Hartlake Manor. Now the problem in Thomasine's story is that she is still underage to take over her own estate. You would think that her stepmother would be her guardian but in the Tudor world, her wardship can actually be purchased through the king. In other words, more money into the king's coffers.
Through the money hungry Sir Lionel Daggett, Thomasine (or Tasmin) enters the court of the Princess of Wales as maid of honor. Through her years in the princess Mary's court, she grows in love with the princess and would do lay down her life for her (which is actually a part of their oath). Through the eyes of Tasmin, you enter the world of Princess Mary's court.
Even though Tasmin is happy in Princess Mary's service, there are times that Sir Lionel Daggett comes to check on her and remind her to advance him in the Tudor court. Once Tasmin reaches her 14th birthday, she is suppose to have ownership of her properties. However, Sir Lionel Daggett has her sign a document in Latin. You might already guess what that document contains.
Tasmin enters the service of Lady Anne Boleyn thanks Sir Lionel Daggett by being a chambermaid. Not exactly a maid of honor but it makes it easier for Tasmin to be close to the concubine. Tasmin is still Princess Mary's friend as she pretends to be Lady Anne Boleyn's friend. Lady Anne Boleyn's rise to power and eventually queen is familiar to those that love anything Tudor. The ideal of courtly love is emphasize in this book.
As a spy for the Princess Mary, Tasmin becomes friends with Rafe Pinckney (a silkwoman's son). They come up with different codes using the different color of silks. Even though Tasmin seems to care for Rafe, she could not jeopardize her position at court and try to help the Princess Mary to be back in her father's favor.
Becoming the king's damsel doesn't happen for Tasmin till the last several chapters of the book. Considering that there is not much known who the 'real' unknown damsel was, Kate Emerson did a good job of recreating the unknown damsel. As the king's mistress, Tasmin becomes close to the king even though the danger of facing Queen Anne's Boleyn's wrath grows every day.
Eventually her tenure as mistress comes to an end and Queen Anne is finally rid of Tasmin when Sir Lionel Daggett comes to fetch her. If you're wondering if she ever ends up with Rafe, then read Kate Emerson's latest book. Kate Emerson gives the readers an understanding of how wardships are handled at the Tudor court, the idea of courtly love and the dangers of the Tudor court.
