John Dynham of Nutwell Part One of a Family Saga Set During the Wars of the Roses — David Bret

In this series, David Bret chronicles the Wars of the Roses, as witnessed by of a Devonshire lord, his family and friends. John Dynham (1433-1501) rose from obscurity to become a key figure in the Yorkist-Lancastrian struggle for supremacy. He entered history in 1459 after the battle of Blore Heath, when he escorted the attainted Yorkist lords, including the future Edward IV, to his country home, then to the Calais garrison. Recovering from a horrific injury which almost cost him his life, he enjoyed a lengthy political career and complex personal life. Twice-married, but openly gay in his private circle, he served three contrasting kings: his friend Edward IV-Richard III, whose regime he held accountable for the deaths of several loved ones including his wife-and Henry VII, the first Tudor king he secretly despised. His story is of compelling interest-sex, shady politics, tragedy and intrigue-and is vividly recounted in this first part of the Dynham saga covering the years 1459-63.