In reality, with the exception of the Richardian faction, most royalist historians are rather dubious of its authenticity since the only source for this claim is Parliment's decree de-legitimizing Edward's marriage and there's zero evidence for it anywhere else, making it come off as a convenient excuse so Richard to grab the throne. Artistic Licence – History: As a work of Ricardian fiction, the book treats Edward's betrothal contract with Eleanor Butler as legitimate.Edward, however, rejects his arranged marriage and marries Elizabeth Woodville, and this causes much strife. Arranged Marriage: A fact of life for most of the characters, even Anne and Richard originally had an arranged marriage though the plans were set aside.This applies to most of the people in the book, as everyone who is bought into conflict with York is given at least some redeeming qualities and there is no clear cut good and bad side.Anti-Villain: Even though Edmund of Somerset is directly allied to Lancaster, and thus is bought into direct conflict with Richard and Edward, he is depicted as being a moral man who pleads for Anne Neville's safety even when he knows he is facing death.Alpha Bitch: Elizabeth Woodville, even when she was 'trying' to be nice to Anne.The book is, along with Josephine Tey's The Daughter of Time considered to be one of the classics of Ricardian fiction. Book IV chronicles Richard's decision to seize the throne, the death of Anne and his son and finally his death at Bosworth field. Book III portrays Richard's successful tenure as Lord of the North and happy family life with Anne, along Edward's decline. Book II deals with Richard coming into adulthood, learning to be a politician as well as a commander of men and Richard's Childhood Friend Romance with Anne Neville. Book I deals with Richard's childhood and his relationship with his older brother Edward as Edward seizes the throne and becomes King Edward IV. The Sunne in Splendour covers 33 years, from 1459 to 1492, focusing on the Wars of the Roses and in particular Richard III, whom Penman depicts as a heroic character, vilified after his death by political enemies.
A Historical Fiction novel by Sharon Kay Penman.
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