Simon

Simon chronicles events during the First English Civil War, following a young man's journey from Devon schoolboy to soldier in the New Model Army. Set primarily in the West Country between 1642-1646, the story traces the impact of national conflict on local communities and personal relationships. The narrative centers on Simon Carey, whose loyalties are tested when civil war splits his community. His friendship with Amias Hannaford faces strain as they find themselves on opposing sides - Simon aligned with the Parliamentary forces while Amias supports the Royalist cause. The military campaigns of 1645-1646 form the backdrop for Simon's experiences as a Cornet in Sir Thomas Fairfax's regiment. The story moves through actual historical battles and locations, incorporating real military figures and events into the fictional narrative. Through its focus on divided loyalties and the costs of civil conflict, the novel explores themes of friendship, duty, and the ways war forces people to choose between competing obligations. The work marked Sutcliff's emergence as a significant voice in historical fiction for young readers.

Readers call Simon an engaging but lesser-known entry in Sutcliff's catalog. Many praise the historical details of 17th century medicine and the English Civil War period. Readers appreciate: - Rich medical practice descriptions - Character growth throughout - Balanced portrayal of both Royalist and Parliamentary sides - Integration of real historical events Common criticisms: - Slower pacing compared to other Sutcliff works - Less action than her Roman Britain novels - Some find the protagonist less compelling than her other heroes Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (156 ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (12 ratings) One reader noted: "The medical details fascinate but may disturb sensitive readers." Another mentioned: "Takes time to get going but rewards patient reading." Due to its limited printing runs, many reviews mention difficulty finding copies, with some readers resorting to library loans or used book purchases.

The King's General by Daphne du Maurier During the English Civil War in Cornwall, a romance unfolds between a Royalist cavalry commander and a local woman against the backdrop of sieges and divided loyalties.

The Moon in the Water by Pamela Belle The tale follows the Morland family through the tumultuous years of the English Civil War as brothers choose opposing sides and their estate becomes caught in the conflict.

The Rider of the White Horse by Rosemary Sutcliff The story tracks Sir Thomas Fairfax's campaigns during the Civil War through the eyes of his wife Anne, who follows the Parliamentary army.

As Meat Loves Salt by Maria McCann A soldier in Cromwell's New Model Army deserts and faces the brutal realities of civil war in a story that moves from battlefields to London's underworld.

The King's Shadow by Elizabeth Alder A young squire serves in the Royalist army during the English Civil War, experiencing the conflict's impact on families and friendships across England.

🗡️ The First English Civil War (1642-1646) resulted in over 200,000 deaths, representing nearly 4% of England's population at the time. 🏰 Torrington, where the story begins, was the site of a significant Civil War battle in 1646 where 200 Royalist soldiers tragically died in a gunpowder explosion. ✒️ Rosemary Sutcliff wrote most of her acclaimed historical novels while battling juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, which she contracted at age two. 🎨 Sutcliff worked as a miniature portrait painter before becoming an author, a skill that likely contributed to her vivid descriptive writing style. ⚔️ Parliamentary forces, which Simon joins in the novel, became known as "Roundheads" due to their short-cropped hair, in contrast to the flowing-haired Royalist "Cavaliers."