Books 2016 – on sale today – The Tudor Brandons by Sarah-Beth Watkins


1 June 2016 – The Tudor Brandons: Mary and Charles – Henry VIII’s Nearest & Dearest by Sarah-Beth Watkins


(c) Chronos Books

(c) Chronos Books


‘This fascinating book studies the life and times of Mary Tudor and Charles Brandon, Henry VIII’s dearest sister and his closest companion. Charles rose from being Henry’s childhood friend to becoming the Duke of Suffolk; a consummate courtier and diplomat. Mary was always royalty. At first married to the King of France, Mary quickly wed Charles after Louis XII’s death in 1515, against her brother’s wishes. Their actions could have been construed as treason yet Henry chose to spare their lives. They returned to court and despite their ongoing disagreements throughout the years, especially over the king’s marriage to Anne Boleyn, the Tudor Brandons remained Henry’s most loyal subjects and perhaps more importantly, his beloved family.’

From Amazon.co.uk

Further details – Chronos Books

Further details – Amazon.co.uk


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25th May 1553 – The wedding of Lady Jane Grey


Today marks the 463rd anniversary of the marriage of Jane Grey to Guildford Dudley at Durham House in London.


(c) Paramount Pictures

(c) Paramount Pictures


Events by Place – Durham House – 25th May 1553

Was Guildford Dudley a good husband to Jane Grey by Leanda de Lisle

Another look at the wedding of Lady Jane

Richard Davey and the wedding of Lady Jane Grey



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History Today article features Lady Jane


(c) History  Today

(c) History Today


Lady Jane Grey features in an article in the June issue of History Today magazine. Alison Kinney investigates the myth of the executioner’s mask, in ‘Off with his Hood.’

The article mentions William Cruikshank’s illustrations in William Harrison Ainsworth’s novel, The Tower of London, which was published in 1840. Cruikshank’s illustration of Lady Jane’s execution is also included.



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UK cover for ‘Crown of Blood’ by Nicola Tallis


The UK cover for ‘Crown of Blood: The Deadly Inheritance of Lady Jane Grey’ by Nicola Tallis has been revealed. Nicola’s debut book will be published by Michael O’Mara books on 3 November.


(c) Michael O'Mara Books

(c) Michael O’Mara Books


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Two TV programmes to look forward to…


‘The Private Lives of the Tudors’, presented by Tracy Borman starts on the Yesterday channel on 7 June. This three part series is based on her new book, ‘The Private Lives of the Tudors: Uncovering the Hidden Secrets of Britain’s Greatest Dynasty.’

Further details – Yesterday – Private Lives of the Tudors


(c) Hodder & Stoughton

(c) Hodder & Stoughton


Also to accompany the new BBC 2 drama, Versailles, Lucy Worsley and Helen Castor will be presenting ‘Versailles, Palace of the Playboy King.’

Further details – BBC.co.uk

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