Carlyle Johnson

The King and the Page Carlyle Johnson

A mysterious murder in 1613 at the court of James I, the bisexual King of England, captures the interest of the nation. The victim is Thomas Overbury, an educated, articulate, handsome young man who was a high-ranking advisor to the King. The prime suspect is Robert Carr, later Earl of Somerset, a beguiling young man whom James discovered when Carr was thrown from a horse at a jousting tournament. James was enchanted by the youth, and brought him into the palace and his life. Carr soon acquires great power and influence. The investigation opens up windows on James' private life and reveals that he has been ruthlessly exploited by young Carr. When it is discovered that Carr has become involved with Francis Howard, daughter of the most powerful family in the land, James questions whether Carr's affection is real, or if he has only pretended in order to gain wealth, favor, and a high government office. When dark secrets and schemes are exposed, James is faced with an impossible choice-public humiliation and alienation from his country, or love and a life of freedom he has always desired. Which path will he follow... that of his head, or of his heart?