The Last of the Barons — Volume 12

"The Last of the Barons — Volume 12" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton is a historical novel that plunges into the heart of the Wars of the Roses, spotlighting figures such as Edward IV and the powerful Warwick the Kingmaker during the Battle of Barnet. Set against a backdrop of political chaos, the story explores loyalty, ambition, and betrayal, mirroring the intense battles and personal clashes of the time. It begins by establishing the scene in St. Alban's, where King Edward's arrival ignites a mix of hope and dread amidst the citizens, especially as King Henry VI is displayed in London in a feeble condition. Shifting loyalties come to light, with characters like Master Stokton and Sir Thomas Cook showcasing the uncertainty of the era. With a battle on the horizon, we encounter the touching relationship between Lord Hastings and Sybill, a young woman grappling with betrayal and heartbreak as their world is about to be engulfed by war. As the chapter concludes, the narrative sets the stage for the coming battle, emphasizing the heavy costs and great power connected to the future of England.