The Gambit — H.W. Coyle

Set in Tudor England, this work of historical fiction tells of a young Lady Elizabeth, eager to experience life beyond the palace and Henry, an orphan boy seeking to flee the brutal conditions that are his lot in life. Though born into very different worlds, they so close in age and looks that they could be twins. What begins as a case of mistaken identity evolves into an adventure for the two youths, one that is as dangerous as it is exciting in ways neither could have ever imagined. The freedom the Lady Elizabeth enjoys while assuming the role of a boy is tempered by the cruel realities of battle. For Henry, what should have been a brief respite from a life of deprivation becomes something more as he is drawn up into court intrigues that is just as vicious and unforgiving as the back alleys of London. As the two youths tread their way along uncharted paths, the English King arranges for the betrothal of the Lady Elizabeth. Sir Robert, who passed Henry off as the Elizabeth must do all he can to keep that from occurring, least is discovered. When she learns of this, the Lady Elizabeth, aided by Sir Thomas, races back to England in an effort to undo a comedy of errors that threatens to turn deadly.