This book was an excellent survey of the Tudor Dynasty.  To cover decades of political, social and dynastic history would take many more pages than this already beefy text.  Unfortunately, this lends itself to the main criticism this reviewer has of an otherwise fine book.  De Lisle is very inconsistent as to what topics she covers thoroughly and which she breezes over.  Anyone knowledgeable with the Tudor Era, would be baffled (an explanation would prove interesting) about events which she selected and which she did not.  Therefore, the idea of a survey is not met as there is too much detail on some issues and the idea of an in-depth study is certainly off the mark.

Coverage of Margaret Beaufort, Owen Tudor and Margaret Douglass was welcome as any materials on these important but often overlooked figures is appreciated. Although, there is some concern for accuracy in the general text as De Lisle perhaps tries to inject new insights.  One comment in particular grabbed the attention of this reviewer (who happens to be researching the role of John Dee in Elizabeth’s Court) on page 304.  De Lisle states that Dee did not select the date of Elizabeth’s coronation when in fact he clearly stated in his autobiographical writings, Compendious Rehearshall, that he was directed by Robert Dudley to determine the most auspicious day.

This reviewer encourages readers to study The Appendices—they were informative and gave some explanations for what De Lisle’s aim was throughout the book.  It was interesting that one of the main criticisms of the text was the confusing use of names and titles and the author attempted to explain her selection in the Author’s Note and Acknowledgement.  Perhaps at 426 pages, adding a few more words when necessary to completely remind the reader of the person mentioned, would not have been amiss.  An example of this is on page 392 when it is mentioned “One of her Boleyn ladies-in-waiting” had died.  After that lengthy of an explanation naming Catherine Howard, Countess of Nottingham and explaining her relationship would not have been amiss—in fact, it would have helped show why Elizabeth was mourning.  This suggestion comes with the understanding that the targeted audience would be someone less familiar with the Tudors.

An impressive study of so many personages and although De Lisle was unable to resist flashes of drama, she has provided an interesting, thoughtful text.

Three Tudor Roses Out of Five