Last Hours (Walters)

As a plague descends on Medieval England, a courageous Lady must protect her land and people at all costs in this historical novel: "Enthralling" (Julian Fellowes, creator of The Gilded Age). England, 1348. When the Black Death arrives in Dorset, no one knows what manner of sickness it is or how it spreads and kills so quickly. The Church proclaims it a punishment from God, insisting that daily confession is their only hope for survival. But Lady Anne of Devilish has different ideas. With her trusted steward Thaddeus at her side-and her brutal husband absent-she gathers her serfs within the moated walls of Devilish and refuse entry to outsiders, including her husband. Bu in such a confined space, conflicts soon arise. Ignorant of the world outside, Lady Anne's people wrestle with the terrible uncertainty of their futures. And as food stocks run low, they begin to wonder how long they can survive within. The moment will come when they must cross the moat . . . and encounter a world transformed in ways they can't imagine.

Survivors of the Black Death face new dangers as they seek safety and freedom in the New York Times–bestselling author's sequel to The Last Hours. England, Winter, 1348. As the Black Death continues its devastating course across England, the quarantined people of Develish question whether they are the only survivors. Guided by their beloved young mistress, Lady Anne, they wait, knowing that when their dwindling stores are finally gone, they will have to leave the safety of their moated walls. But first, to prepare for the wasteland outside, one courageous man must venture out alone. Thaddeus Thurkell, a free-thinking, educated serf, goes in search of supplies and news. A compelling leader, he and his companions quickly throw off the shackles of serfdom and set their minds to ensuring Develish's future-and freedom for its people. But what use is freedom that cannot be gained lawfully? When Lady Anne and Thaddeus conceive an audacious plan to secure her people's independence, neither foresees the life-threatening struggle over power, money and religion that follows . . .