Katherine Parr is often seen as a mere caretaker for King Henry VIII, but she was a vibrant, ambitious, and intelligent woman. Twice widowed and a hostage during the Pilgrimage of Grace, her dramatic life continued after Henry's death. Her secret marriage to Sir Thomas Seymour and struggles with her stepdaughter Elizabeth highlight her influential role as queen consort.
The struggle between the fecund Stewarts and the barren Tudors is generally seen only in terms of the relationship between Elizabeth I and her cousin, Mary Queen of Scots. But very little has been said about the background to their intense rivalry. Here, Linda Porter examines the ancient and intractable power struggle between England and Scotland, a struggle intensified during the reigns of Elizabeth and Mary's grandfathers. Henry VII aimed to provide stability when he married his daughter, Margaret, to James IV of Scotland in 1503. But he must also have known that Margaret's descendants might seek to rule the entire island. Crown of Thistles is the story of a divided family, of flamboyant kings and queens, cultured courts and tribal hatreds, blood feuds, rape and sexual licence on a breath-taking scale, and violent deaths. It also brings alive a neglected aspect of British history - the blood-spattered steps of two small countries on the fringes of Europe towards an awkward unity that would ultimately forge a great nation. Beginning with the unlikely and dramatic victories of two usurping kings, one a rank outsider and the other a fourteen-year-old boy who rebelled against his own father, the book sheds new light on Henry VIII, his daughter, Elizabeth, and on his great-niece, Mary Queen of Scots, still seductive more than 400 years after her death.
A groundbreaking new history of the first woman to rule England in her own right.
A vivid account of the many mistresses of Charles II, the king who was, according to one diarist 'addicted to women'
or How God Uses Love to Open Us Up to the Divine and Each Other
The author, Linda Porter, reunites with her delightful group of angels, collectively known as Us, to explore themes of spirituality and connection. This sequel promises to delve deeper into the nature of these celestial beings, offering insights and uplifting messages that resonate with readers seeking inspiration and guidance. Porter's engaging narrative style invites readers to join her on a journey filled with light and positivity.
Ambition drives Natalie Norwood as she pursues her dream of becoming an anchorwoman in Las Vegas, finding both professional and romantic intrigue with cameraman Miles Grey. Their budding relationship faces challenges when her charismatic ex, Derrick Johnson, reappears, claiming to have changed. As Natalie grapples with her feelings for both men, she must navigate the complexities of love, lust, and betrayal, especially when a childhood friend betrays her trust. This tale explores the journey towards understanding true love amidst life's storms.
The page-turning story of the life of Henry VIII's forgotten elder sister, brought to vivid colour in this stunning new biography.