Perkin Warbeck is a young man who claims to be the rightful heir to the throne of England. He is supported by a number of powerful people, including the King of Scotland, and his claim is taken seriously by many. However, the King of England, Henry VII, is determined to prove that Perkin is an impostor and has him arrested and thrown into the Tower of London. Despite his imprisonment, Perkin continues to gain support and eventually escapes. He travels to Scotland, where he is welcomed by the King and given a place in court. He is also promised the hand of a Scottish princess in marriage. Perkin's fortunes take a turn for the worse when he is betrayed by his supporters and forced to flee to Ireland. There, he is captured by the English and brought back to London, where he is tried and executed. Despite his death, Perkin's story lives on and his claim to the throne is still debated to this day. Mary Shelley's novel tells the story of Perkin Warbeck's life and his struggle to prove his identity.
By Mary Shelley · First published 1851 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance, Adventure · 58 chapters