Book Review: The Last Yorkists: Edmund and Richard de la Pole, by Richard Anderton

Available from Amazon UK 

and for pre-order from Amazon US

Edmund and Richard de la Pole were the last princes of the House of York to actively seek the English throne – their epic thirty year struggle against Henry VII and Henry VIII saw them plunged into a murderous maelstrom of international intrigue. Although the brothers were nephews of Richard III, England’s last Yorkist king, neither had been born to rule and they were forced into rebellion by the relentless scheming of their Tudor rivals.

If you thought what are now known as the 'Wars of the Roses' effectively ended at Bosworth in 1485, Richard Anderton’s The Last Yorkists could make you think again. This book tells the story of Edmund and Richard de la Pole, who kept the Yorkist cause alive long after Henry Tudor won the crown. 

We follow the brothers across Europe as they evade capture, broker deals with foreign powers, and dream of reclaiming the English throne. Edmund comes across as reckless, which ultimately leads him to the executioner’s block. Richard, in contrast, is a survivor until his dramatic death fighting for King Francis I of France.at the Battle of Pavia in 1525. 

Richard de la Pole

One of the strengths of this book is how it places the de la Poles in an international context. France, the Holy Roman Empire, and Scotland all had a part to play in keeping Yorkist hopes alive. By weaving in this bigger picture, Richard Anderton illustrates how English politics was inseparable from the diplomacy and wars of continental Europe.

The writing is lively and accessible, ideal for readers who enjoy history told with a strong narrative. Historians may want a deeper analysis or fresh archival discoveries, but for most readers the balance of detail and readability works well.

The Last Yorkists is an engaging account of men who refused to let the Yorkist cause die quietly. It’s a reminder that the Tudors’ hold on power was less secure than usually thought. Whether you are a history buff or just dipping into the 'Wars of the Roses', this book is a recommended read.

Tony Riches

(I would like to thank Amberley Publishing for providing a review copy.)

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About the Author

Richard Anderton is a writer from the north of England .He has previously written historical fiction, as well as for a variety of magazines. This is his first non-fiction title.