English Civil War Novels

by Gillian Bradshaw 2 books in this series

The English Civil War novels follow Lucy Wentnor and blacksmith Jamie Hudson through the unsettled years from 1647 to 1649. Lucy rebuilds her life in London through the expanding trade in pamphlets and newsbooks, while Jamie’s military experience repeatedly draws him back into the conflict they both hoped had ended.

Their marriage and political convictions are tested by the Second Civil War, censorship, Royalist conspiracies and the Levellers’ campaign for wider rights. By placing printers, artisans and soldiers beside the struggles among Charles I, Parliament and the army, the series shows national revolution through the work and private choices of ordinary people.

Reading order

Books in this series (2 books)

1. London in Chains

Gillian Bradshaw

First published 2009

4.1(63)

In 1647, Lucy Wentnor leaves the Midlands after an assault by soldiers and rejection by the man she expected to marry. She reaches London hoping to live with prosperous relatives, only to find their mercery close to ruin in a capital strained by war, shortages and…

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2. A Corruptible Crown

Gillian Bradshaw

First published 2011

3.6(43)

In 1648, Lucy and Jamie Hudson are married but separated when renewed war forces Jamie back into the army. Lucy continues printing radical newsbooks in London, evading censorship while supporting Leveller arguments for representation, religious liberty and government answerable to the people. Jamie’s disillusionment deepens as…

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