G. P. R. James's historical novel, "Darnley; or, The Field of the Cloth of Gold," intricately weaves a tapestry of courtly intrigue and socio-political dynamics set against the backdrop of the lavish 1520 summit between King Henry VIII of England and King Francis I of France. With a blend of rich, descriptive prose and well-researched historical detail, James captures the vibrant color of the era ...