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Wheel of Fortune

The Tarnished Crown Series, Book 1

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About this listen

1469, England. For almost ten years, Edward IV has ruled with the Earl of Warwick’s support, but now rebellion threatens England’s fragile peace.

With the Midlands in uproar, the last thing King Edward needs is potential trouble in the form of an unwed heiress.

But, strong-willed and single-minded, Isobel Fenton is determined that nothing will separate her from her beloved manor of Beaumancote, even if she does have to marry to stay there.

Isobel is unaware of the importance she and her land represent, and of the agenda of the formidable Earl in whose care she finds herself. And as unrest boils into war, she is drawn into the very heart of the conflict.

Can Isobel escape from the web in which she is trapped and make her own path? Or will the Wheel of Fortune fail to turn in her favour…?

©2023 C.F. Dunn (P)2025 Soundings Action & Adventure Biographical Fiction Genre Fiction Historical Fiction Medieval Royalty
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As the title suggests, the ‘Wheel of Fortune’ spins eternal. Those bound to its ascension are as surely bound to its fall.

C F Dunn’s beautifully crafted story, carefully weaves imagined people and events into the real history of England during the War of the Roses. Rich with detail, the story follows the raw and personal short of fictional Isobel Fenton as she enters, unwillingly, into the personal and political complexities of the time. Dunn captures the fickle and duplicitous nature of power. Those unfortunate enough to be granted it (or unwise enough to seek it) are forever under its yoke. It feels like the author is leading us into an ever more complex and developed story, so buckle up folks, this series is going to be an intense one!

It’s really worth the read/listen with a good narrator who creates great distinction between characters. The story is a slow-burn and absolutely brilliant - I thoroughly recommend!

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Just as a heads-up for folks whom it may concern - SA/aftermath features heavily (but not graphically). It’s used intentionally here (rather than for the drama of a character suffering or ‘just cos’ as is often the way in modern media - especially historical).
Here, Dunn incorporates this theme purposefully to highlight power imbalances and injustices on a personal scale, and also to reflect societal views, expectations and restrictions of the time - specifically towards women in this case. It is tough to read some of these parts and some of the characters’ responses but it’s well done and well written, with care, intent and compassion.

Fantastic

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Very sentimental, touching, flowing story. Has a depth of emotion. I really enjoyed it.

Good literature

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As a fan of her previous books, I was eager to read this one, and it exceeded my expectations. The level of historical accuracy is impressive, with vivid descriptions and authentic period details that bring the world to life.
Dunn’s meticulous research shines through in every aspect of the novel, from the political intrigue to the everyday realities of medieval society.
The characters are well-drawn and compelling, making it easy to become invested in their journeys. Wheel of Fortune is a must-read for historical fiction lovers, and I look forward to the next instalment!

One of the best books I have read!

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