A good and entertaining biography about Thomas Cromwell, clearly outlying what is really known and what is speculated about Cromwell's life, particularly on his younger years. I learned quite a bit about this extraordinary personality revealing many and sometimes surprising facets. Highly recommended.
NetGalley, Christine Boos

[b]Rating[/b]: 5 out of 5 stars “Arthur Plantagenet” by Sarah-Beth Watkins is an exciting look at one of history’s lesser known figures - the illegitimate son of Edward IV and Uncle to Henry VIII, Arthur Plantagenet. The Tudor Era is one of the most interesting and intriguing periods of our history. A time of utter betrayal and a fight to survive, it was brilliant to be able to take a more detailed look at Arthur Plantagenet and his place within the structure of the Royals. Excellently written and rich in historical detail, this book is an absolute gem and will entrance fans of the Tudor period and everyone who enjoys learning about our history.
NetGalley, Carrie M Lack

[b]Rating[/b]: 5 out of 5 stars Imprisoning Mary Queen of Scots: The Men Who Kept the Stuart Queen by Mickey Mayhew is an excellent nonfiction/history that delves into the fascinating and intricate lives of the many that took on the task of keeping watch over the infamous Mary Queen of Scots during her many years of imprisonment in England. This is such an amazing book that tells the background, history, and story of each of the individuals that housed Mary, their families, and even a little about the residences themselves. The author does an amazing job fitting it all in within Mary’s life and timeframe, and the reader even gets a better understanding and glimpse into her life as well. Well-researched, paced moderately, and felt effortless and more like fiction than nonfiction. Excellent. 5/5 stars
NetGalley, Rachel Fox

A fascinating look at the end of the life and times of Elizabeth I. We read about her decline in her latter years although she is still able and one step ahead. She faces decisions about the Armada, Irish problems, and unrest at home with the succession.. At the time of her demise, she is alone without her favourites and courtly love. The information has been thoroughly researched and is presented in a clear and readable manner.
NetGalley, LOIS ELIYAHU

[b]Rating[/b]: 5 out of 5 stars A meticulously researched bit of history which details the life of Henrietta Anne, or Minette as her brother, Charles the second, used as her pet name, as she was his beloved younger sister. This covers the Civil War period, and her subsequent time at the French court, and is very well written as well as being a brilliant piece of historical research. I knew about the life of Madame, but I wanted to know more, because I am fascinated by her. I have read many of the books written by this author before, and was very pleased to get a complementary copy from netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The author has written some good books, but the research on this book is impressive, and I have not read all her books, so it would be difficult to say this is the best. However the amount of research and the ease of reading makes this book my favourite out of the books that I have read by this author. I would highly recommend the book..
NetGalley, Mary Hawkes