January 2026 Rule One Book Reviews Selection

WHY IT WAS SELECTED
This one has been in the back of my mind since I first read the sample, and it earned its review strictly on its sample. I hope it doesn't disappoint. I was going to get to it earlier, but I'm glad I held off so I can use this review to kick off  2026. Expect this review later in the month of January because the holidays have me completely overwhelmed. I'm going to have to revert to my typical slow-reading style. ​

READER CHALLENGE 
 My reader challenge is always the same - read this book and meet me back here in January and let's compare notes. 

TITLE: All the King's Bastards
PUBLISHER: None
AUTHOR: G. Lawrence
GENRE(S): Speculative Historical Fiction.(multiple sub-genres)
PUBLICATION DATE: June 11, 2025​
AMAZON REVIEWS/RATINGS AT DISCOVERY: 19/4.4 Star Average
AMAZON KINDLE RANKING AT DISCOVERY: #79,105 
WHY IT GOT MY ATTENTION:
Once again, the X algorithm served me a book post from an author account I did not follow. This one appeals directly to history buffs and sets its hooks into the reader's like me fast and hard. The cover is outstanding! It sets a mood that that reflects the book's content and vibe. The pitch is solid, but the sample really pulled me in. I was hit by some great lines in just the first few paragraphs to include this gem: "She supposed this was what they meant by pale as death, for nothing in life was this shade of white, this shade of white with a touch of grey." In only a few pages I came the conclusion this is a highly promising novel. 
DATE PLACED ON CANDIDATE LIST:7 July 2025
​STATUS: Scheduled for January 2026 Review

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