Available September 1, 2026!

Only a daughter of two worlds can save England’s future.

England, 1381 AD: Blanche Fitzjohn is an outcast in her small coastal village. Not only is she the illegitimate daughter of John of Gaunt, the man responsible for her neighbors’ over-taxation, but she possesses strange abilities: hearing sound from miles away and smelling people’s emotions.

She takes solace in her studies with the local wisewoman and in her friendship with Geoff, a groom at the local manor. Until the day Henry of Lancaster, Blanche’s half-brother, brings her news of an arranged marriage to Sir Thomas Prescott, Constable of the Tower of London. Although she smells cruelty on him, Blanche agrees to marry Thomas in the hopes that her influence may help better the lives of Geoff and all England’s villeins.

But soon, the peasants’ discontent turns to revolt. Though her heart is of the people, Blanche’s nobility makes her an enemy to the rebels. To save herself and Henry from the executioner’s ax, Blanche must use every power at her disposal, even those she once considered a curse.

PRAISE FOR UPRISING

J.E. Rizzo’s book Uprising, Book One of the Fitzjohn Duology, is a beautifully written tale of a harrowing and complex time in England’s past: the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381. The history is accurate, and the people, especially the main character, Blanche, are brought to life through Ms. Rizzo’s attention to detail and exceptionally well-written descriptions. Elements of magic are carefully woven into the story, blending seamlessly with the novel’s historical elements. If you enjoy works by Philippa Gregory, you’ll want to read this novel. — Kelly Evans, author of The Confessor’s Wife and The Beggar Queen

Immersive, thrilling, and gorgeously written, J.E. Rizzo’s debut novel is a must-read for historical fiction fans who love strong women, relatable characters, and a whisper of magic. Lisa A. Traugott, bestselling author of To Rescue a Witch and To Condemn a Witch

Published by Literary Wanderlust

Available on Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, or Goodreads.com.