The Queen’s Bed: An Intimate History of Elizabeth’s Court – Anna Whitelock
I recently finished The Queen’s Bed: An Intimate History of Elizabeth’s Court by Anna Whitelock. This particular work focuses on the women who formed the inner circle of Elizabeth I. In the 45-ish years Elizabeth ruled England, only 28 women had the honor of serving her personally. It’s interesting to pull back the curtain and view how these noble women lived and worked almost 500 years ago. Overall, I enjoyed it, even if at times it seemed a bit long.
Martha Washington: An American Life – Patricia Brady
I decided to mix up my Tudor history reading and learn more about our nation’s First Lady, Martha Washington. This is a comprehensive biography of Martha Dandridge Custis Washington. It tracks her life from her childhood to her first marriage, widowhood, and second marriage to George Washington. Sadly, Martha destroyed her letters with George, so we have an incomplete picture of their lives. This was still a really interesting read, and I enjoyed it.
Lady Katherine Knollys: The Unacknowledged Daughter of King Henry VIII – Sarah-Beth Watkins
Lady Katherine Knollys: The Unacknowledged Daughter of King Henry VII by Sarah-Beth Watkins was another recent read. This is a quick biography that focuses on Katherine Carey Knollys and her questionable parentage. Was she the daughter of Mary Boleyn Carey and Henry VIII? Honestly, no new information about Katherine is presented. The focus; however, is directly on Katherine, rather than on her cousin, Elizabeth I, or her husband, Francis Knollys. It’s easy to read and provides a new perspective on a central figure in the early Elizabethan court.
Arbella: England’s Lost Queen – Sarah Gristwood
I also finished Arbella: England’s Lost Queen by Sarah Gristwood. This focuses on the fascinating and truly tragic life of Arbella Stuart, a potential heir to Elizabeth I’s crown. She was a great-granddaughter of Henry VII and cousin to James VI of Scotland. Many believed she had a better claim to be England’s next monarch than James. I really enjoyed reading this book and would definitely recommend it to any Tudor or Stuart enthusiast.
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