From the Archives — Review: In a Treacherous Court by Michelle Diener

This post is part of my new From the Archives series, where I revisit older reviews. Some will be unchanged, others will have a bit more added perspective.
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Title: In a Treacherous Court
Author: Michelle Diener
Series: Susanna Horenbout and John Parker #1
Publication: August 2, 2011 by Gallery Books, Simon & Schuster
Genre: Historical Fiction
Read in: October 2012
Rating: 5/5★

Henry VIII’s most lethal courtier and his newly appointed artist become the only thing keeping him on the throne—and if they survive, neither will ever be the same.

John Parker is one of Henry VIII most useful courtiers—utterly merciless and completely loyal. But one small favor for his king will pull Parker into a deadly plot against the throne, one that will test his courage, his resolve, and most especially, his heart.

A commission from Henry VIII should have been the crowning achievement of Susanna Horenbout’s career, but before the beautiful and talented artist even sets foot in England, she finds herself in possession of a secret that could change its history.

With Parker as her only protection against killers who will stop at nothing to silence her, Susanna has to trust the dangerous, enigmatic courtier.

She’s used to fighting in a man’s world, but she never expected to be fighting for her life.

Susanna was send by her father to become Henry VIII's new painter. When she arrived, it wasn't long before there was an attempt on her life. John Parker, one of the King's most dangerous courtiers, was then charged to keep her safe. More attacks follow and slowly a conspiracy against the throne is revealed. The more Susanna and Parker find out about the secret plot, the more deathly it becomes.

I loved In a Treacherous Court right from the start. Susanna was a great heroine. Strong, witty, talented and beautiful. I loved her voice and the way she handled herself against all the attacks she had to endure. I'm pretty sure most people would crack under the pressure but she always held herself standing straight. Of course, Susanna being Flemish helped me like her a lot too since I'm Flemish as well. Parker... oh I just loved him. Michelle Diener really has a knack for creating not only amazing female characters but also swoon-worthy and protective men. I loved how they used to call him "Parker the Cold, Parker the Merciless and Parker the Lone Wolf" before he met Susanna.

This book was so exciting! It really, truly was. Lots of attacks and fighting so there never was a boring moment. The mystery and suspense were killing me, especially at the last part. I was so afraid everything wouldn't turn out okay in the end. And the author's writing! That must be my favorite thing about In a Treacherous Court. Michelle Diener truly is my new favorite writer. It was so fast paced and amazing that when I had only 100 pages left, I forced myself to stop reading because I didn't want it to be over so soon. I absolutely got sucked in. When I did finish the book, I actually felt really sad. I need more, way much more! Luckily for me there's an ebook and another novel after this one so once I get my hands on them, I'll be good.

The romance between Susanna and Parker was perfect. They were attracted to each other pretty much right away but this isn't a bad thing. In this novel it worked perfectly. They knew from one another that they wanted each other, also a thing I loved. No confusion or anything about their feelings for each other except that Susanna thinks she wouldn't make a very good wife, but we'll see. I think Parker can handle her artistic ways perfectly.

In a Treacherous Court by Michelle Diener is an exceptional debut. The historical information as well as the romance and suspense meshed so well together. It was beautifully written, fast paced and just a really enjoyable read. This novel will grip the reader so fast, never letting go, until the very end.

In a Treacherous Court was rereleased in 2023 with a beautiful new cover by Daisey Crown Press. I have yet to buy myself a copy of it (I need to own that cover!) but I hope I can do it soon. 😍

About the author:

Michelle Diener is the bestselling, awardinning author of historical fiction, fantasy and science fiction romance novels. Having worked in publishing and IT, she’s now very happy crafting new worlds and interesting characters. 

Michelle was born in London and currently lives in Australia with her husband and children.

When she’s not writing, you can find her on her author Facebook page, interacting with readers on her Facebook Readers’ Group, on Instagram or Threads.