Jane Grey will forever be immortalized as the “Nine Days Queen” (it was actually 13) having ‘usurped’ the crown from Mary Tudor before Mary decided shJane Grey will forever be immortalized as the “Nine Days Queen” (it was actually 13) having ‘usurped’ the crown from Mary Tudor before Mary decided she had enough of that and snatched it off Jane’s head (figuratively). This tragic young lady, beheaded for her role at age 17, was more than just a martyr: she had poise, intelligence, decorum, and religious fortitude. Nicola Tallis, the resident historian of the Alison Weir Tours (which should hint at Tallis’s writing style); brings Jane’s life to the limelight in, “Crown of Blood: The Deadly Inheritance of Jane Grey”.
Tallis kicks off “Crown of Blood” by exploring the Tudor blood lines and environment surrounding the birth and childhood of Jane Grey. This is an introspective start that is great for those not familiar with the topic but it does seem that Jane is instantly bypassed when she is supposed to be the star of the text. This is also solidified by Tallis venturing off on tangents not truly discussing Jane until several chapters in.
Despite this initial “Where is Jane?”- moment; Tallis immediately intrigues the reader with both her clear abundance of information (which, again, is great for those new to the topic) and her writing style which is lovely and descriptive but professional. Tallis has strong writing skills that stick out with “Crown of Blood” being her first foray into the publishing world but also among some of the history books from her peers, in general. There are some speculative statements rife with “could have” and “should have” jargon but these are not overwhelmingly so and therefore, do not weaken the text as a whole.
The major issue with “Crown of Blood” is that there is no new information. The pages consist of everything about Jane and her life that readers will already be familiar with many times over and thus, “Crown of Blood” simply recaps the information. To remedy this, there are occasional moments when Tallis attempts to debunk myths or rumors and break down facts with strong research and sleuth work. Tallis infuses “Crown of Blood” with primary sourced-document block quotes and direct quotes from figures in the text. This strengthens the credibility of “Crown of Blood” and gives a revealing look into the historical matter.
As expected, the pace heightens when Jane gains the crown…and loses it. Tallis tells the events with bravado both informing the reader of the history while also providing entertainment. Although new facts are STILL not uncovered; “Crown of Blood” explores the incident well with a strong voice and firm research. On the other (negative) hand, at this point, Tallis puts too much of an emphasis on what Jane felt and thought without any source material backing these statements. It can be said that “Crown of Blood” is too much like a HF novel, in some ways.
Despite Tallis’s speculative tone; she also reveals Grey as formidable, bold, courageous, and mature for her age shedding new light on Jane for those who merely viewed her as a pawn-victim. In fact, “Crown of Blood” makes her too saintly and it is obvious where Tallis’s biases lay.
The concluding chapters of “Crown of Blood” have a strong impact with a detailed retelling of Wyatt’s Rebellion and an emotional rehashing of Jane’s death. This is followed by a look into the social/pop history impact of Jane Grey plus the aftermath on her close family bring the text together in a homogeneous and memorable way.
“Crown of Blood” includes compelling appendices discussing portraits (or lack there) of Jane, her final theological debate before execution, and a list of places to visit in England to walk in her footsteps. These are not only unique but useful to the reader. This is also supplemented by a well-annotated notes section and a bibliography. These are gold mines for the readers and not to be skipped over!
Tallis’s first history writing is quite remarkable as it stands on firms legs with its approach, writing style, and credibility. Yes, there isn’t any new information surrounding Jane (and tangents ensue); but, even despite this, the text is strong and perfect for a new reader to the topic and is a great refresher for those already well-versed. “Crown of Blood” isn’t perfect and is certainly similar to Alison Weir’s works (so, not suggested for those anti-Weir readers) but it is certainly recommended for those interested in Jane Grey and the Tudor period. Basically: it is good for what it is and meets its purpose. ...more
Some people get only 15 minutes of fame. In the case of Tudor-era Queen Jane Grey, this fame is extended to nine days (in actuality, it was a bit moreSome people get only 15 minutes of fame. In the case of Tudor-era Queen Jane Grey, this fame is extended to nine days (in actuality, it was a bit more). Deborah Meroff tells the story of the ‘Nine Days Queen’ in, “Coronation of Glory”.
“Coronation of Glory” begins with the overdone writing tactic of starting a historical fiction story with a character looking back at his/her own life in order to tell the “true” version of events. This lack of creativity flows into a first-person narrative, thus resulting in heavy, “As you know, Bob”- style storytelling in order to explain historical context. This prevents the reader from truly experiencing the story and makes “Coronation of Glory” better suited for readers new to the topic.
Also annoying in “Coronation of Glory” is the stereotypical characterizations. The figures do not evolve and are portrayed in aggravating ways (the future-Queen Elizabeth is a complete bitch even as child [even bashing her own mother], Jane is a naive girl who always sees the best in everyone, Thomas Seymour is a pompadour, Francis Brandon is abusive, etc). All of this causes the story to be rather flat and uneventful.
Meroff’s plot is quite inconsistent as some parts read no better than a YA novel while there are a few moments with deeper thoughts and literary language worth noting. This weaves a very up-and-down storyline which is also infused with an overabundance of foreshadowing that frustrates readers familiar with the events.
One of the biggest turnoffs is Meroff’s habit of stressing familiar relations between characters such as calling Elizabeth ‘Eliza’ every two seconds and Jane addressing Thomas Seymour as her ‘guardian’ in each line. This isn’t necessary. We get it!
Looking for a positive note? “Coronation of Glory” is not overly romantic or fluffy. Granted it is dated being 35 years old and not 100% historically accurate; but it isn’t as bad as many other HF novels. The novel isn’t too exciting but at least it isn’t pure fluff which makes it decently readable.
Meroff’s work falls victim to believability. Jane Grey being best friends with Lady Margery (the mother of the Seymours)? I think not. Jane acting like a child one moment but then speaking like an articulate adult the next and then like a child again? No, not buying it. Unfortunately, this breaks reader attention and causes choppiness which Meroff certainly did not intend.
Approximately halfway, “Coronation of Glory” focuses too much on romance. Luckily, this doesn’t linger and Meroff finally creates a stimulating tale when Jane takes the throne. This is definitely the first time the novel is more than dull. The only issue is that it is portrayed exactly like every other novel on Jane Grey. However, it could be argued that other authors were influenced by Meroff as this one is almost four decades old.
The final chapters of “Coronation of Glory” are quite vivid and emotional as though Meroff waited until the end to add some plot volume. The conclusion is memorable although the epilogue is from the point of view of Jane’s maid (Ellen) and is in a completely different tone than Ellen spoke throughout the entire novel. Regardless, the meaning is clear and the lasting image is solid.
It should be noted that Meroff does not include any notes regarding the historical merits and liberties of the story (most older novels don’t). There is a bibliography, list of characters, and genealogical table but they are located at the end and can therefore be easily overlooked.
“Coronation of Glory” is sadly flat, stereotypical, and lacking any complexity of unique storytelling. On the other hand, I have read worse HF novels. This is one to not rush into reading but suggested if you must read all Jane Grey novels. Otherwise, “Coronation of Glory” is best recommended for readers new to the topic or YA readers (as the novel reads somewhat like a YA novel). ...more
They say that, “Legends never die” and initial impressions are difficult to transform. This is certainly true of Jane Grey, the ‘Nine Days Queen’ (in They say that, “Legends never die” and initial impressions are difficult to transform. This is certainly true of Jane Grey, the ‘Nine Days Queen’ (in fact, her reign was about 13 days). Tudor texts encapsulate Jane as a highly-intelligent, staunch Protestant, teenage girl who was abused by her mother and forced to accept the crown. Her husband Guildford Dudley was a ‘Mama’s Boy’ while Jane Dudley (his mother) was an overbearing, snotty, pretentious woman. Frances Grey is penned as Jane Grey’s abusive mother while the Dudleys were upstarts and the Seymours caught control of the Crown. These character descriptions have been passed down for generations with few arguing their merits... with the exception of Susan Higginbotham. Higginbotham completely destroys these stereotypes and explores the events that led Jane Grey to the throne in the historical-fiction novel, “Her Highness, the Traitor: The Tudor Story you Don’t Know”.
“Her Highness, the Traitor” literally reworks the traditional Jane Grey story and narrates it from the perspectives of Frances Grey (Jane’s mother) and Jane Dudley (John Dudley’s wife); who were supposedly part of the group of orchestrators bringing Jane to the throne. Higginbotham throws the boxed figures into the fire and reshapes their Phoenix ashes as new beings with Jane being a sort of spoiled brat rather than a puppet martyr, Frances holds the role of a mother trying to balance loyalties, and Jane Dudley as a bystander to her husband. This new formula and view makes for a compelling and intriguing piece, moving “Her Highness the Traitor” to the front of the Jane Grey novel line.
Although reimagining historical events and the narratives of historical figures (and the propaganda surrounding them) could most likely result in an unbelievable fluff piece; Higginbotham’s tale is smooth, plausible, and organic. The characters’ telling of events transports readers and truly envisions conceivable perspectives that are fresh and provoke theories of thought. “Her Highness, the Traitor” is not just an entertaining novel about Jane Grey but also rebuts traditional historical theses and is therefore perfectly apt for staunch nonfiction readers interested in the subject.
In typical Higginbotham fashion, “Her Highness, the Traitor” does take historical liberties but maintains an emphasis on research and academia making it more history than fiction. These are few and far between and not ‘fluffy’ enough to be detrimental to the overall credibility of the novel.
“Her Highness, the Traitor” occasionally slips into an, “As you know, Bob” – style storytelling that is somewhat surprising from an author known for being anti- this method. Fortunately, this occurs more so in the beginning of “Her Highness, the Traitor” and isn’t cumbersome throughout the novel duration.
The major flaw/weakness in “Her Highness, the Traitor” is the absence of character development and arcs. Both the plot and characterizations are very one-note and stagnant. Even given the unique interpretations; Jane Dudley, Frances Grey and Jane Grey never adapt or grow making “Her Highness, the Traitor” less invigorating and conclusively devoid of the level of emotional movement that could have been captured.
Readers will find “Her Highness, the Traitor” to contain occasional ‘Easter Eggs’ rife with Higginbotham’s sassy quips. This characteristic Higginbotham tradition is not lost in “Her Highness, the Traitor”.
When “Her Highness, the Traitor” reaches its pinnacle climax and its concluding chapters; is when Higginbotham’s writing and story explode and truly shine. Emotions are felt, the pace is lively, the characters jump from the text, and everything, overall, feels real and golden; resulting in a strong and memorable ending that erases any flaw the novel may have suffered, previously.
Higginbotham supplements “Her Highness, the Traitor” with an absolutely extraordinary ‘Author’s Note’ expressing every detail of truth and/or historical liberty within the novel. This tends to be overlooked by some historical fiction authors and should be applauded.
“Her Highness, the Traitor” reworks history and tells it in an unsullied way that by no means dilutes facts but simply offers a character study that encourages Tudor history lovers to rethink typical stereotypes. “Her Highness, the Traitor” is suggested for all readers of Tudor history, Tudor historical-fiction, and of course: Higginbotham devotees....more
There is basically only one view available surrounding Jane Grey. She is typically portrayed as a wronged, martyr-pawn… and that is the end of that. HThere is basically only one view available surrounding Jane Grey. She is typically portrayed as a wronged, martyr-pawn… and that is the end of that. However, Hester W. Chapman aims to provide a view of a girl who displayed more control than a simpleton used in the schemes of adults in “Lady Jane Grey”.
Although I was unaware that “Lady Jane Grey” is considered YA until I opened the book; I was delightfully surprised. Chapman’s writing style is eloquent, not simplified, and smooth with an exciting-narrative pace. Although such qualities keep the pages turning, there are some issues with a lack of details which are the result of author choice (even though the material is dated). While Chapman did gloss over some events; others were described with more clarity than I’ve seen contemporary historians do, resulting in deeper understanding. Basically, an overall picture is still well-created.
Correspondingly, Chapman focuses more on Grey’s story and events surrounding her versus truly bringing her psyche alive and thus making “Lady Jane Grey” best for those new to the topic or for those looking for a refresher course. Regardless, even those well-familiarized with Jane will find Chapman’s work to be readable and enjoyable.
There are some negatives surrounding dated facts (which isn’t Chapman’s fault, as this is an older book); and with the conviction of some statements. Some of the “facts” (for example: Jane not liking her hunchback sister, Mary) are firmly stated, yet not sourced or elaborated. There are moments of unnecessary, opinionated comments.
As the book progresses, the ratio of background information to those of Jane’s personal moments are satisfactory. There does appear to be a lack of proving Chapman’s thesis that Jane was not as innocent as previously portrayed. Although there are attempts by Chapman to argue this; the reader is not overall convinced as much as poked into thought and consideration. Albeit, as “Lady Jane Grey” evolves, Chapman becomes more confident in her arguing points and also presents small details which even the most avid Tudor reader may be unaware of.
The cohesiveness of “Lady Jane Grey” can be perceived as slightly choppy due to chapters which flow as separate written units (with their own source material page) versus one, long narrative. Even with some of the “broken” text, however, “Lady Jane Grey” still answers many questions and Chapman’s terrific writing style remains in tact.
A distracting (but minor) factor within “Lady Jane Grey”, were the direct quotes from foreign ambassadors which could have been enlightening… had they been translated (no translation appears even in the Notes).
With a memorable (and perfectly-timed ending); Chapman successfully presents a view of Jane Grey which reveals another side of the young lady versus that of just martyrdom which can spring forth debate. Well written and an interesting read, “Lady Jane Grey” is suggested for all Tudor lovers whom seek a more-rounded and developed picture of the Nine Days Queen. ...more
The Princes in the Tower are a delicious historical mystery which still mystifies many Anglophiles. Alison Weir’s new angle on the mystery portrays K The Princes in the Tower are a delicious historical mystery which still mystifies many Anglophiles. Alison Weir’s new angle on the mystery portrays Kate Plantagenet and Katherine Grey attempting to unravel some of the dark secrets behind the brothers’ disappearance in “A Dangerous Inheritance”.
Initially, “A Dangerous Inheritance” appears to be two books in one: one portraying Kate Plantagenet and another following Katherine Grey. It can be concluded that Weir wanted to write a book on each but instead of giving in to the inevitable speculation which would have resulted from the lack of sufficient resources; she combined the figures and opted for a historical fiction novel instead. However, I would have rather read a light history book, as the historical events mentioned are generally accurate (albeit with the usual Weir stances/views) and include a sufficient amount of detail and pleasing descriptions (also typical of Weir).
The fiction, on the contrary, feels forced with a very juvenile-level dialogue. The characters (especially the main heroines) are very one dimensional and child-like (granted they are children in the story); while the other supporting roles are stereotypical (evil, hunchback Richard!). This prevented me from experiencing any depth and from feeling a connection to the story.
I do give Weir credit for attempting to give some limelight to Kate Plantagenet (a bastard child of Richard III); as she is often ignored and sometimes disputed as Richard’s daughter. Furthermore, as the reader realizes the concept behind “A Dangerous Inheritance”; it is recognized how creative it is. Rather than trying to connect Kate and Katherine directly, Weir fashioned a detective story in which Katherine Grey seeks to find conclusions regarding the disappearance behind the Princes in the Tower. Weir alternates between Katherine’s discoveries and the actual events which Kate may have experienced during her own time.
Although this is an interesting devising of the story of the Princes; the detective work reads like a YA fiction novel (it is very Nancy Drew: Ghosts! Shadows!). Plus, Weir sticks to her usual opinions versus attempting to work through her characters to look at other leads or viewpoints. There is certainly no new information and neither is “A Dangerous Inheritance” Ricardian friendly.
Weir executes the heroines’ investigations accurately in respect to what evidence would have been available to both during their respective time periods. Although Weir may have been tempted by evidence since discovered/debated; the story felt “real” by their absence. The pace throughout “A Dangerous Inheritance” is rather smooth and moves the story along swiftly.
Somewhat odd are the “interludes” by Elizabeth I which are an attempt to personalize her actions but felt awkward and too arranged.
The “Author’s Note” was the best part of the novel, providing a couple facts I was unaware of. Weir also asserts that this is a fictional work and not meant to be an “authoritative source” (do you hear that, you readers who believe everything?).
Although I found “A Dangerous Inheritance” to remind me of “Three Maids for a Crown” by Ella March Chase and even though the novel wasn’t “for me” due to my minimal interest in mysteries; I can see why others would enjoy it. “A Dangerous Inheritance” is not necessarily to be discredited; it just personally wasn’t to my liking this time. ...more
Given the choice of being a queen but for only about 2 weeks and finding your death by beheading or not being a queen at all; which would you choose? Given the choice of being a queen but for only about 2 weeks and finding your death by beheading or not being a queen at all; which would you choose? Unfortunately, Jane Grey didn’t have a decision to make and was thrown into her fate earning her the nickname, “The Nine Days Queen”. Eric Ives explores this incident in Tudor history in, “Lady Jane Grey: A Tudor Mystery”.
Before even proceeding; a stylistic detail regarding the format of “Lady Jane Grey” must be made. Several reader reviews have complained that the text of “Lady Jane Grey” is not written as a portrait or biography and therefore fell short of satisfaction. Well, people need to read THOROUGHLY , as Ives clearly states in his introduction that he penned “Lady Jane Grey” in a mystery/court case format looking at figures involved, motives/intent, situation, and conclusion. Ives never claimed to be writing a biography. Learn to read, people! With that being said, Ives has both successes and failures in this work.
“Lady Jane Grey” is definitely not recommended for those not versed on the subject as Ives packs the pages with information. This compounded with his writing style can easily overwhelm some readers. Ives focuses on debunking myths and immersing in research by presenting full quotes, cross-referencing on dates, and exploring various theories which is perfect for Tudor lovers who seek this in-depth breakdown.
The issue with this is that Ives seemingly strays off the topic by large margins. Meaning, a figure is mentioned and then an entire background is given even if it is irrelevant to the topic at hand and thus; losing the stream and slowing the pace of “Lady Jane Grey”. However, this truly reveals the macro environment related to the accession of Jane Grey to the throne.
Ives cunningly brings forth many theories previously unexplored. Although some of these aren’t mainstream agreeable (such as John Dudley being an innocent party); Ives logically explains and backs up his thinking causing the reader to respect the views even if they are not agreed with.
There are slow moments in “Lady Jane Grey” but when it is great: it is great. Therefore, the text can feel somewhat jumpy and disjointed. Plus, Ives has the habit of trying to make modern-day or humorous comparisons which has no place in an academic text and “throws things off”.
The major issue is the absence of Jane’s view in “Lady Jane Grey”. Everyone seems to be discussed but her (obviously making her the ‘victim’ in the ‘case’). Her side is simply not thoroughly explored. This relates to the fact that Ives’s thesis is somewhat lost presenting the situation as a ‘mystery’. His intent appears to be to explore why and how Jane Grey gained the throne but the idea and conclusion are somewhat lost. Simply: the presentation/format of the text is not for everyone.
The highlight of “Lady Jane Grey” occurs at Part III when Ives describes the rise and fall of Jane Grey in great detail from Mary’s perspective to the military tactics of Dudley. Ives’s version is one of the better-researched and well-written accounts on the matter and even those readers familiar with events will learn some new facts.
The final chapters of “Lady Jane Grey” focus on the impact of events on Jane and her supporters. The conclusion is notably strong with a look at depictions of Jane in art and media. “Lady Jane Grey” also features annotated notes (well presented) and a section of back-and-white plates.
Even taking complaints into consideration and the stylistic format of “Lady Jane Grey” which may not appeal to all readers; Ives offers a strong and meticulously- researched look at the events of Jane Grey’s ‘reign’. Again, the text is NOT a biography so readers won’t necessarily gain a glimpse into Jane’s psyche but will come away with some new knowledge. “Lady Jane Grey” is recommended for Tudor lovers with some background on the time period. ...more
You may be familiar with the “Nine Days Queen”, Jane Grey; but how much do you know about the lives of her sisters, Katherine and Mary? Ella March ChaYou may be familiar with the “Nine Days Queen”, Jane Grey; but how much do you know about the lives of her sisters, Katherine and Mary? Ella March Chase explores these doomed sisters in her historical fiction novel, Three Maids for a Crown.
Initially, I was slightly worried by Chase’s novel due to some historical fiction fluff and inaccuracies on the early pages. For instance, one of the characters in the novel is Bess of Hardwick; whom is placed as a lady-in-waiting to Frances Brandon. The storyline in Three Maids for a Crown begins in 1553 and the Grey sisters are already addressing her as “Bess of Hardwick” by title. However, Hardwick Hall wasn’t built until 1590-1597 so she was not deemed by this title yet. Plus, she DID marry her second husband (William Cavendish) in 1547 at the Grey Family home but never before had I heard her mentioned as a lady-in-waiting. Granted, I may be wrong. Despite this preliminary trepidation, the pace of the story is strong with an enticing ratio of intrigue and fact, although sometimes too predictable.
Three Maids for a Crown is voiced by each of the three Grey sisters with the strongest voice given to the youngest Mary (generally known as humpback or dwarf); while the voices of Jane and Katherine strengthened later-on. Mary successfully carries the novel with emotion, depth, and an unmistakable connection to the reader. Jane’s sections were somewhat flat, but I actually liked her on the back burner and allowing Mary and Katherine to have the spotlight.
Another positive factor is the chronological setting of the story, as it begins in the middle of the drama of the Grey sisters with the double wedding of Jane to Guildford Dudley and Katherine to Henry Herbert. Thus, instant suspense ensues which captures the reader to the topic regardless of whether you are an expert on the Grey sisters or new to the subject. Surprisingly (in a good way), the novel assembles more momentum and strength as the story progresses. It turned into quite the page-turner. While not a complex story, the reader still itches to know what will happen next.
Sadly, several cataclysmic events (the moment Jane found out she was queen, when Jane had to make the decision to dispatch troops against Mary Tudor, her preparations for her execution, etc); were somewhat glossed over and could have deemed more insight into her underlying emotions and purpose. Although it was implied that they were religious causes, this was hardly explored. In fact, the entire story felt slightly constrained like Chase was on a word count restriction.
An odd moment? One of the chapters began in summer 1558 as Katherine was 17 but the subsequent chapter began with Katherine being, “nearly 18 years old” in the “spring of 1558”. Hmm? Another factoid that avid Tudor readers will notice as an error: the novel mentions Chapuys as the Imperial Ambassador and his being fond of Katherine… in 1559. Yet, Chapuys retired from court in 1545 and died in 1556. These aren’t major issues or detrimental to the story but I don’t understand if Chase merely gave up fact-checking at this point to truly thought it was actuality. I found this to be bothersome.
A positive story point was the portrayal of Elizabeth I. Chase went beyond the typical pedestal ideal of Elizabeth generally perceived. Chase instead described Elizabeth as scheming, vain, and hypocritical. On a personal note, I also enjoyed that the controversy over Amy Robsart’s death was mentioned (wife of Robert Dudley); because this is a story I have always been fascinated by.
Three Maids for a Crown is fresh, vibrant, and moving throughout; although, the last chapter was too fluffy and “happily ever after” which didn’t fit with the story. Overall, it is a rather interesting and appealing (but simple) historical fiction novel. Also, make sure to read the afterword for some juicy tidbits. ...more
Oh, David Loades. Sadly, you did not impress me with this piece of work.
The concept of the Tudor Queens of England grabbed my attention instantly and Oh, David Loades. Sadly, you did not impress me with this piece of work.
The concept of the Tudor Queens of England grabbed my attention instantly and I proceeded to prder the book from another library branch. I have read tons of history books on female members of the royalty, mistresses, wives, etc. Thus, even though I know most of the information, this book seemed perfect for me!
Wrong! I found Tudor Queens of England to be far too dry, basic, and just plainly, uninteresting. None of the facts were unheard, it was just an overview; and the passages moved far too slowly. If you are a history buff just joing the Tudor World, then this book is for you. If you consider yourself an expert, you can skip this slow book and you won't lose out because we already know all of the contents.
Don't misunderstand, Loades is a well-known author in the drama but this book is a bit of a slip....more
Hmmm, I almost feel as if I read a different book than the other reviews because I must certainly disagree with some of the strong points discussed. AHmmm, I almost feel as if I read a different book than the other reviews because I must certainly disagree with some of the strong points discussed. As opposed to the other reviews, I thought that the majority of this books focused on Jane Grey versus her less controversial sisters. Granted, there is obviously more historical remnants available regarding the Nine Days Queen but when a book's title contains the term"sisters", then you expect more. Yes, the book DID delve into some background regarding the lives of the Grey sisters and their future romantic and court-related decisions but it was more of a cause-and-effect description of, "Jane did this, so the sisters did that" versus what the sisters did first. Perhaps they just had boring lives? Regardless, this book should have just admitted that it was basically about Jane Grey.
Also, I found that Linda de Lisle also debated the most common Jane Grey stereotypes. Most biographies argue that Jane was raised by the abusive and non-loving Frances Grey (Duchess of Suffolk) and was intensely intelligent and strongly protestant while also being friends with then-Princess Elizabeth. However, de Lisle seems to strive to prove that none of that was true and Jane was more of an ambitious upstart like most other females. It felt more of a lack of research and facts on de Lisle's end versus a strong argument as it didn't include solid notation or background.
Overall, not bad but certainly not what you expect. A light overview which leaves you wanting more (good or bad thing?). ...more
Love her or hate her, Jane Grey (daughter of Frances Brandon and granddaughter of Mary : Henry VIII's sister)aka the "Nine Days Queen" is an interestiLove her or hate her, Jane Grey (daughter of Frances Brandon and granddaughter of Mary : Henry VIII's sister)aka the "Nine Days Queen" is an interesting female in Tudor history. Several portraits exist of this young pious female. Ones which paint her with a prostestant, intelligent female used by the ambitions of the Dudley family and her own parents; while other chalk her up as having her own ambitions and fully knowing what she was doing usurping the crown.
Alison Weir, a history master, jumped into the historical-fiction category (usually it is the other way around for authors), telling the story of Jane Grey. Weir depicts her as a overly intelligent young lady who cared more about books and scholarly activites than anything else. One who was abused as a child and grew into teenage hood forced into marriage to Guilford Dudley at the ambitions of the Dudley family to gain control of Edward and the subsequent Tudor government.
Obviously this is Weir's view (as the title clearly states) and regardless of your personal view, this novel is compelling, convincing, and rather historically acurate. Of course Weir took some historical liberties, such as claiming that Jane found the report which was to convict Henry VIII's last wife Catherine Parr of anti-religious views. This is a storyline which is purely false but adds to the story of a innocent and right-doing Jane.
Smooth and entertaining, The Innocent Traitor is a solid read into the world of Jane which will open the Pandora's Box of interest into her short reign and forward your path into historical biographies regarding her world. A strong historical-fiction effort from Alison Weir....more
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