Title: Young BessAuthor: Margaret Irwin
Series: Queen Elizabeth I
Genre: Historical Fiction
Release Date: March 1, 2010 (originally published in 1944)
I received this book for review from the publisher, Sourcebooks.
Summary: Growing up in the shadow of her mother, the infamous Anne Boleyn, young Princess Elizabeth has become a master at dodging the constant political games and deflecting the unpredictable royal whims that threaten to topple her precarious royal perch. But when her distant father, tyrannical King Henry VIII, dies, the future brightens for Elizabeth. She moves in the Henry's last wife, Catherine Parr, and Catherine's new husband, Tom Seymour-uncle of Elizabeth's brother, the new king Edward VI.
Handsome Tom, however, is playing a risky game. Marrying a widowed queen is one thing; flirting with the king's daughter and second in line to the throne is another. As the adolescent Elizabeth finds herself dangerously attracted to him, the tragedy that looms ahead seems inescapable. Elizabeth will have to summon the strength to claim her royal destiny, eve if that means facing the future alone.
Thoughts: Young Bess was wonderful story, centering around a time in Elizabeth's life when things still aren't certain for her. Danger, doubt and treachery are at every turn. The research that the author did for this book shines through in the writing. Ms. Irwin has given us a powerful tale of what life is like before the reign of the Golden Age. This was an enjoyable read, a must read for any Tudor fan.
Score: 3 Stars
Author Website: Margaret Irwin (Wikipedia page)
About the Author:
Margaret Irwin (1889-1969) was a master of historical fiction, blending meticulous research with real storytelling flair to create some of this century's best-loved and most widely acclaimed novels, including The Gay Galliard, The Stranger Prince and Young Bess. (Author Bio from Sourcebooks)
Upcoming Releases:
Elizabeth, Captive Princess- October 2010
Elizabeth and the Prince of Spain- April 2011
Nice review Anna.
ReplyDeleteI have not seen much about the early years, they always speed through those
This sounds very interesting! Great review!
ReplyDeleteSame here Blodeuedd. I've only read one other book were it explored Elizabeth's early years. But it was a YA, part of The Royal Diaries series.
ReplyDelete