This is a must read for all Tudor interested history fans! This tells Mary's story (the infamous Bloody Mary) from childhood to her death. I loved reading it as if it is her telling us her story in her own words and gives me a really good sense of who she was and all the trials of her life. You can see how her parents actions really influenced her life and her devout religious beliefs that shaped the woman that she became. This is a powerful historical account that doesn't miss out or skimp on details. I really was transported back in time reading this book and I feel so much more knowledgeable on Mary after reading it. A well researched book.

This was my first Weir book and I really enjoyed it! It was well researched and written and I found myself wizzing through this book, unable to put it down. Such a fantastic storyteller.

I am a massive fan of Alison Weir’s historical fiction, it is meticulously researched in a way most of her contemporaries are not. This one didn’t disappoint, despite Mary being a less sympathetic character than the majority of Henry 8th’s wives. Weir really gave this polarising character a voice, one that wasn’t always a sympathetic character. It was easy to read and very entertaining, even though at times I wanted to give her a good shake.

I really hope Alison Weir continues to write these books. I presume the next one will be one on Elizabeth, though with such a long reign I wonder whether one book will do her justice. I would also love a book about Mary Queen of Scots, her life has always fascinated me and is full of drama. Also Margaret Lennox, the Scottish Princess - who has been a bit character in a few of Weirs books. Either way, I hope these books continue, I have bought every one in hardback.

Whilst I have long been a huge fan of Alison Weirs research and history books I didn’t enjoy her Six Queens fiction series so I approached this without much enthusiasm. I’m thrilled though to say I was utterly wrong. I loved this story, the author brilliantly brings Mary to life and takes us on a rollercoaster journey with her - though her parents divorce to the terrible revenge she takes on Cramner. I started out loving Mary and ended up hating her whilst still feeling sympathy for her…….which is testament to the authors skill. The story is fast paced, detailed and very emotional. I loved this.

Incredibly detailed historical research, such as one would expect from this author, but the tale is told easily, with no great chunks of historical information inserted, and it is a good story. I really enjoyed it and the fact that the tale was so effortlessly told, despite the research that wenr into it,. The novel was brilliant. The author is a fantastic writer. Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for giving me a copy of the book.