Maria Perry’s The Sisters of Henry VIII is a detailed exploration of the lives of two often-overlooked Tudor figures: Margaret Tudor, Queen of Scotland, and Mary Tudor, Queen of France (later Duchess of Sussex). This book brings the two women out of the shadow of their famous brother and with extensive research and accessible prose, Perry reveals their resilience in the face of immense challenges, and the crossing of their personal wishes and political/family responsibilities.

Once in a while Perry falls into speculation but does utilize the surviving correspondence between the siblings well (there was affection and tension). For this reviewer, it often seemed that the focus was on their relationship with Henry VIII rather than their Lives, as implied in the subtitle, and their achievements (survival not only in their domestic sphere but also on the international political scene, being the main one amidst their ambitions).

Overall, a good read and one that will educate it’s readers and maybe, generate an interest to delve further into the lives of these two fascinating women.

Four Tudor Roses Out of Five