What do you think?
Rate this book
The Queen's Pleasure
When young Robert Dudley, an earl's son, meets squire's daughter Amy Robsart, it is love at first sight. They marry despite parental misgivings, but their passion quickly fades, and the ambitious Dudley returns to court. Swept up in the turmoil of Tudor politics, Dudley is imprisoned in the Tower. Also a prisoner is Dudley's childhood playmate, the princess Elizabeth. In the shadow of the axe, their passion ignites. When Elizabeth becomes queen, rumours rage that Dudley means to free himself of Amy in order to wed her. And when Amy is found dead in unlikely circumstances, suspicion falls on Dudley - and the Queen...Still hotly debated amongst scholars - was Amy's death an accident, suicide, or murder? - the fascinating subject matter makes for an enthralling read for fans of historical fiction.
469 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
43 people are currently reading
1922 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
April 16, 2013
Although the love affair between Queen Elizabeth and Robert Dudley is well-known; I generally find myself “rooting” for the underdog which in this case was Dudley’s ill-fated wife, Amy Robsart. Her death – whether from breast cancer, suicide, or murder—is one of my favorite unsolved mysteries. Brandy Purdy explores this love triangle in “The Queen’s Pleasure”.
The first 200 pages of “The Queen’s Pleasure” are told through Amy’s eyes alternating chapters between the day of her death and of her memories of her marriage to Robert. Although this back-and-forth can become tiresome; Amy truly comes alive which is refreshing due to the lack of books focusing on her viewpoint. Sadly, however, her characterization stresses her as a “country bumpkin” as though Purdy is trying to convince the reader that Amy wasn’t good enough for Robert.
In fact, “The Queen’s Pleasure” suffers wholly from stereotypes with none of the characters escaping the role they are expected to play: Robert is rude, crude, and ambitious while his brother Guildford is a spoiled mama’s boy as Elizabeth is emotionless and selfish (although her arc evolves). Although these typecast roles create ample drama within the novel; they are one-dimensional for the readers hoping to explore new sides to the figures.
From a historical context, “The Queen’s Pleasure” is rather accurate with facts while the historical liberties employed are believable and overall enrich the story. Although, there are fluffy sections which feel like a pathetic romance novel. Furthermore, Purdy has “slip-ups” in dialogue which are too modern or posed in a way which would never occur.
Purdy’s writing style is very figurative, literary, and illustrative; focusing more on thoughts and emotions versus dialogue. This creates a deeper and richer novel than expected with less fluff. On the contrary, there are many areas which feel forced and dragged out with allusions stretching pages with little movement or action resulting in the reader’s propensity to scan and not miss anything within the plot.
Another frustrating factor is the mention of buttercups and apples on EVERY page. Readers will come to hate buttercups! Purdy clearly added some of the events strictly for novelty (ghost monks, Robert and Amy having sex in front of his brothers in the tower, Amy masturbating in a public bath, voodoo-type wax dolls). These can be annoying, and again, perceived as “trying too hard”. Fortunately, these are infrequent and it feels as though Purdy was uncomfortable with them but felt she had to include them for popularity (they don’t add to the plot and could have been left out).
Naturally, “The Queen’s Pleasure” is much more dramatic as Elizabeth’s alternating chapters stir up the mix. The reader truly feels Amy’s pain and scorn and also Elizabeth’s need for control. The novel is certainly not for Robert fans, as the feelings of hatred toward him can’t be avoided. At the same time, Purdy is repetitive and makes Amy distasteful as each page is filled with numerous attempts to gain (failingly) Robert’s attention and love. This becomes tedious, predictable, and frustrating.
The conclusion of “The Queen’s Pleasure” was strong and then a let-down. Strong:Purdy, in a sense, combined all the theories surrounding Amy’s death which gave an unbiased demise and allows the reader to make his/her own conclusion. Furthermore, Purdy seamlessly interweaves Leicester’s Commonwealth into the tale, strengthening the novel as this document isn’t often explored resulting in a memorable ending. However, the epilogue (which was not necessary) weakens the ending, adds an unneeded twist to the entire novel, and results in a groan. I would suggest ignoring this section. Purdy does discuss some of the historical after notes in the post-script) (bringing to light the interesting figures of Thomas Blount and Dr. Walter Bayly).
The main feature and deciding factor whether one would enjoy the novel or not; is the lack of constant dialogue and banter with a more stream of consciousness approach. To some, “The Queen’s Pleasure” is thus a deeper novel while to others; it may be slow and sluggish. Overall though, I would recommend “The Queen’s Pleasure” to those seeking novels regarding Amy Robsart (as they aren’t abundant).
The first 200 pages of “The Queen’s Pleasure” are told through Amy’s eyes alternating chapters between the day of her death and of her memories of her marriage to Robert. Although this back-and-forth can become tiresome; Amy truly comes alive which is refreshing due to the lack of books focusing on her viewpoint. Sadly, however, her characterization stresses her as a “country bumpkin” as though Purdy is trying to convince the reader that Amy wasn’t good enough for Robert.
In fact, “The Queen’s Pleasure” suffers wholly from stereotypes with none of the characters escaping the role they are expected to play: Robert is rude, crude, and ambitious while his brother Guildford is a spoiled mama’s boy as Elizabeth is emotionless and selfish (although her arc evolves). Although these typecast roles create ample drama within the novel; they are one-dimensional for the readers hoping to explore new sides to the figures.
From a historical context, “The Queen’s Pleasure” is rather accurate with facts while the historical liberties employed are believable and overall enrich the story. Although, there are fluffy sections which feel like a pathetic romance novel. Furthermore, Purdy has “slip-ups” in dialogue which are too modern or posed in a way which would never occur.
Purdy’s writing style is very figurative, literary, and illustrative; focusing more on thoughts and emotions versus dialogue. This creates a deeper and richer novel than expected with less fluff. On the contrary, there are many areas which feel forced and dragged out with allusions stretching pages with little movement or action resulting in the reader’s propensity to scan and not miss anything within the plot.
Another frustrating factor is the mention of buttercups and apples on EVERY page. Readers will come to hate buttercups! Purdy clearly added some of the events strictly for novelty (ghost monks, Robert and Amy having sex in front of his brothers in the tower, Amy masturbating in a public bath, voodoo-type wax dolls). These can be annoying, and again, perceived as “trying too hard”. Fortunately, these are infrequent and it feels as though Purdy was uncomfortable with them but felt she had to include them for popularity (they don’t add to the plot and could have been left out).
Naturally, “The Queen’s Pleasure” is much more dramatic as Elizabeth’s alternating chapters stir up the mix. The reader truly feels Amy’s pain and scorn and also Elizabeth’s need for control. The novel is certainly not for Robert fans, as the feelings of hatred toward him can’t be avoided. At the same time, Purdy is repetitive and makes Amy distasteful as each page is filled with numerous attempts to gain (failingly) Robert’s attention and love. This becomes tedious, predictable, and frustrating.
The conclusion of “The Queen’s Pleasure” was strong and then a let-down. Strong:Purdy, in a sense, combined all the theories surrounding Amy’s death which gave an unbiased demise and allows the reader to make his/her own conclusion. Furthermore, Purdy seamlessly interweaves Leicester’s Commonwealth into the tale, strengthening the novel as this document isn’t often explored resulting in a memorable ending. However, the epilogue (which was not necessary) weakens the ending, adds an unneeded twist to the entire novel, and results in a groan. I would suggest ignoring this section. Purdy does discuss some of the historical after notes in the post-script) (bringing to light the interesting figures of Thomas Blount and Dr. Walter Bayly).
The main feature and deciding factor whether one would enjoy the novel or not; is the lack of constant dialogue and banter with a more stream of consciousness approach. To some, “The Queen’s Pleasure” is thus a deeper novel while to others; it may be slow and sluggish. Overall though, I would recommend “The Queen’s Pleasure” to those seeking novels regarding Amy Robsart (as they aren’t abundant).
July 1, 2012
* I received this book as part of a Goodreads "First Reads" giveaway. *
Well, first of all, I didn't realize the type of genre this book was. Had I known, I wouldn't have entered to win. I love historical fiction, however, this book was more like fiction loosely based on some fact with a big helping of lots of writing about the sex lives of the characters in question. I quit reading about a third of the way through the book after feeling rather disappointed.
I did appreciate that Purdy began the book by writing from Amy Dudley's point of view (the wife of Robert Dudley who in Queen Elizabeth's court and is thought to have been her lover). However, the passages of Amy Dudley focused on a lot of flashbacks intertwined with Amy's agony. After a couple chapters, I found myself glossing over the passages because they were so similar to what I had already read.
A lot of the book focused on some heavy sex-writing. Now, I don't read Harlequin-type books so I was uncomfortable with this type of writing. Perhaps for that type of genre,the writing was good, I don't know but I do know it so didn't work for me.
I really love books on the Tutor period, however, a book based on romance/fiction writing with a dose of history is NOT historical fiction and I found this book to be a great disappointment.
Well, first of all, I didn't realize the type of genre this book was. Had I known, I wouldn't have entered to win. I love historical fiction, however, this book was more like fiction loosely based on some fact with a big helping of lots of writing about the sex lives of the characters in question. I quit reading about a third of the way through the book after feeling rather disappointed.
I did appreciate that Purdy began the book by writing from Amy Dudley's point of view (the wife of Robert Dudley who in Queen Elizabeth's court and is thought to have been her lover). However, the passages of Amy Dudley focused on a lot of flashbacks intertwined with Amy's agony. After a couple chapters, I found myself glossing over the passages because they were so similar to what I had already read.
A lot of the book focused on some heavy sex-writing. Now, I don't read Harlequin-type books so I was uncomfortable with this type of writing. Perhaps for that type of genre,the writing was good, I don't know but I do know it so didn't work for me.
I really love books on the Tutor period, however, a book based on romance/fiction writing with a dose of history is NOT historical fiction and I found this book to be a great disappointment.
February 5, 2020
3 out of 5 stars
This is the story of the love affair between Robert Dudley and Elizabeth 1 told mainly on the side of Roberts wife Amy. When I read the book I thought it would be told purely by Elizabeth so I was shocked that most of the chapters were about Amy and how she gets breast cancer. We start off at Amy’s funeral and we discover how much Elizabeth regrets the pain she caused Amy then we go back to the start where Amy meets Robert and they fall in love. Very early on Robert shows signs of the baddy he will become. It was interesting to find out more about the affair and certainly I’ve never thought of how it must have hurt Amy. On the negative side I feel it was quite graphic about the cancer so please be aware of that going into this book. It’s safe to say I really don’t like Robert after reading this book.
This is the story of the love affair between Robert Dudley and Elizabeth 1 told mainly on the side of Roberts wife Amy. When I read the book I thought it would be told purely by Elizabeth so I was shocked that most of the chapters were about Amy and how she gets breast cancer. We start off at Amy’s funeral and we discover how much Elizabeth regrets the pain she caused Amy then we go back to the start where Amy meets Robert and they fall in love. Very early on Robert shows signs of the baddy he will become. It was interesting to find out more about the affair and certainly I’ve never thought of how it must have hurt Amy. On the negative side I feel it was quite graphic about the cancer so please be aware of that going into this book. It’s safe to say I really don’t like Robert after reading this book.
June 19, 2017
Interesting look at one of history's most notorious love triangles: Amy Robsart Dudley, Robert Dudley, and Elizabeth I.
Told in the first person switching between Amy and Elizabeth, the book is an interesting take on the situation.
Heavy on the romance, so buyer beware.
Well worth a read.
Told in the first person switching between Amy and Elizabeth, the book is an interesting take on the situation.
Heavy on the romance, so buyer beware.
Well worth a read.
September 7, 2018
3 stars - It was good.
A unique perspective due to the focus on Amy Robsart, which was detracted by poor word choice at times, such as “pierced by his fleshly sword”. I also didn’t like the inconsistency of how Amy’s character was painted - she ran her father’s farm which was uncharacteristically independent and clever for women back in the day, yet with Robert she was a whimpering little thing that was willfully ignorant and unwilling to stand up for herself. But again, overall it was still a good read with a refreshing perspective.
-------------------------------------------
Favorite Quote: Like St. George slaying the dragon, Dr. Kristofer Biancospino wanted to kill the great crab called Cancer who preyed upon, ravaged, and took, more than any one dragon, so many lives.
First Sentence: I told Kat to fetch a chair and be my dragon, to sit outside my bedchamber door and guard my lair after I was gone.
A unique perspective due to the focus on Amy Robsart, which was detracted by poor word choice at times, such as “pierced by his fleshly sword”. I also didn’t like the inconsistency of how Amy’s character was painted - she ran her father’s farm which was uncharacteristically independent and clever for women back in the day, yet with Robert she was a whimpering little thing that was willfully ignorant and unwilling to stand up for herself. But again, overall it was still a good read with a refreshing perspective.
-------------------------------------------
Favorite Quote: Like St. George slaying the dragon, Dr. Kristofer Biancospino wanted to kill the great crab called Cancer who preyed upon, ravaged, and took, more than any one dragon, so many lives.
First Sentence: I told Kat to fetch a chair and be my dragon, to sit outside my bedchamber door and guard my lair after I was gone.
June 7, 2012
Though many have heard about the relationship between Elizabeth I and Robert Dudley, few know about Robert's wife, Amy Robsart Dudley. When she was seventeen, she married Robert for love and they had a wonderful first year of marriage. But soon, Robert's ambition overtakes his feelings for Amy and he leaves her behind in the countryside with promises to introduce Amy at court one day. Amy lives out her life alone, except for her faithful servant who stays with her through everything, hoping and praying that her husband will come back to her. Unfortunately, her husband is much too caught up in trying to woo Queen Elizabeth in hopes of becoming king. When Amy dies under mysterious circumstances, many wonder was it an accident? Or did Robert or the Queen of England have something to do with her death?
I have always appreciated Brandy Purdy's ability to take a well known historical story and put a new twist on it and I was not disappointed in her telling of Elizabeth and Robert's "love" story. Once again, Purdy's writing is beautiful and incredibly descriptive, with the ability to make the reader feel the emotions that her characters are feeling. She puts the story telling in Amy's hands and the reader is able to understand how Amy felt throughout the whole ordeal, knowing that her husband was too busy spending time with another woman and living out his ambitions to spend time with his wife. Elizabeth also tells a bit of her side of the story and this allowed me to see how Robert manipulated both Amy and Elizabeth, though I have to say that I felt more sorry for Amy than the queen. I liked getting to see Amy's side of the story, but it is not a happy one. I felt so bad for her that there were times I just had to put the book down and take a break, it stirred that much of an emotional response in me. Though this wasn't a happy tale, I really enjoyed the book and would recommend it Tudor fans and to anyone wanting to know more about Amy Dudley.
*Please note, I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I have always appreciated Brandy Purdy's ability to take a well known historical story and put a new twist on it and I was not disappointed in her telling of Elizabeth and Robert's "love" story. Once again, Purdy's writing is beautiful and incredibly descriptive, with the ability to make the reader feel the emotions that her characters are feeling. She puts the story telling in Amy's hands and the reader is able to understand how Amy felt throughout the whole ordeal, knowing that her husband was too busy spending time with another woman and living out his ambitions to spend time with his wife. Elizabeth also tells a bit of her side of the story and this allowed me to see how Robert manipulated both Amy and Elizabeth, though I have to say that I felt more sorry for Amy than the queen. I liked getting to see Amy's side of the story, but it is not a happy one. I felt so bad for her that there were times I just had to put the book down and take a break, it stirred that much of an emotional response in me. Though this wasn't a happy tale, I really enjoyed the book and would recommend it Tudor fans and to anyone wanting to know more about Amy Dudley.
*Please note, I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 28, 2012
*I received this book through LibraryThing Early Reviewers.*
I was hoping to be pleasantly surprised by this book, but instead I found it rather disappointing. Overall, I felt like the writing was poor, the characters unlikeable, and the plot rather thin. The seed of this novel lies in the history of Robert Dudley and the mysterious death of his first wife, Amy. The Tudors are always popular subjects of historical fiction, but this particular work has little to recommend it. Amy comes off as weak, lovesick, and immature and who without fail accepts the abuse and criticism of her husband Robert, even after she is aware of his affair with Queen Elizabeth of England. Amy's bland acceptance and along with her constant heartbreak made me really dislike her as a character, although her character could have be redeemed if she'd have at least stood up for herself (and bashed Robert's head in). But even that couldn't make up for the poor writing and character development. The characters come off as immature and childish and possess unrealistic motivations. The history behind this plot is rich and diverse, but the author fails to realize that with this novel, making it a disappointing read, especially if one is familiar with the history.
I was hoping to be pleasantly surprised by this book, but instead I found it rather disappointing. Overall, I felt like the writing was poor, the characters unlikeable, and the plot rather thin. The seed of this novel lies in the history of Robert Dudley and the mysterious death of his first wife, Amy. The Tudors are always popular subjects of historical fiction, but this particular work has little to recommend it. Amy comes off as weak, lovesick, and immature and who without fail accepts the abuse and criticism of her husband Robert, even after she is aware of his affair with Queen Elizabeth of England. Amy's bland acceptance and along with her constant heartbreak made me really dislike her as a character, although her character could have be redeemed if she'd have at least stood up for herself (and bashed Robert's head in). But even that couldn't make up for the poor writing and character development. The characters come off as immature and childish and possess unrealistic motivations. The history behind this plot is rich and diverse, but the author fails to realize that with this novel, making it a disappointing read, especially if one is familiar with the history.
March 11, 2012
The Queen's Pleasure explores the romance between Elizabeth I and Robert Dudley, primarily through the eyes of Amy Dudley, Robert's wife. Not only did Amy stand between Robert and Elizabeth, but between Robert and his ambition. The novel opens with Amy's discussion of her marriage to Robert, which quickly became a loveless shell when the once love-lorn Robert realizes that marrying the lowly Amy only hurt his ambition. Then, after Elizabeth takes the throne, Robert seems a way to further that ambition despite Amy. However, it doesn't take long for jealousy to blossom, and for Elizabeth to see Amy as a threat and rival for Robert's heart.
Brandy Purdy captures the unique voices of two women brought together by the love of one man, and the heated rivalry that ensues, filled with politics and covered in raw ambition. I was particularly intrigued by Amy's sections, since I've never seen another book tell the same story through Amy's eyes. This helped to put a unique perspective on the subject and help me understand her situation better, as more of a victim of Robert's ambitions and unexpected recipient of Elizabeth's dislike. It was particularly interesting to see the depiction of Amy and Robert's relationship pre-Elizabeth, as it was certainly rout with issues (and sometimes outright abuse).
Characters aside, I had some trouble reading parts of this book. First, I felt like there were several things that should have been taken out completely (this book is over 500 pages and, at times, it goes really slowly), especially before Elizabeth appears on the scene. Second, I found it hard to get fully invested in Purdy's style. This is mostly personal preference, but the severe lack of dialog, long and wordy sentences, and frequent time skips made it hard for me to keep my brain completely focused on the story, and I found my thoughts wandering.
This book is just right for fans of historical romance and who enjoyed Purdy's previous novels, but it was a little difficult for me to fully enjoy. I wouldn't rush out and buy it, but I'd certainly suggest it to friends looking for a good historical romance.
Brandy Purdy captures the unique voices of two women brought together by the love of one man, and the heated rivalry that ensues, filled with politics and covered in raw ambition. I was particularly intrigued by Amy's sections, since I've never seen another book tell the same story through Amy's eyes. This helped to put a unique perspective on the subject and help me understand her situation better, as more of a victim of Robert's ambitions and unexpected recipient of Elizabeth's dislike. It was particularly interesting to see the depiction of Amy and Robert's relationship pre-Elizabeth, as it was certainly rout with issues (and sometimes outright abuse).
Characters aside, I had some trouble reading parts of this book. First, I felt like there were several things that should have been taken out completely (this book is over 500 pages and, at times, it goes really slowly), especially before Elizabeth appears on the scene. Second, I found it hard to get fully invested in Purdy's style. This is mostly personal preference, but the severe lack of dialog, long and wordy sentences, and frequent time skips made it hard for me to keep my brain completely focused on the story, and I found my thoughts wandering.
This book is just right for fans of historical romance and who enjoyed Purdy's previous novels, but it was a little difficult for me to fully enjoy. I wouldn't rush out and buy it, but I'd certainly suggest it to friends looking for a good historical romance.
September 4, 2017
This historical fiction provides further insight into the love triangle between Amy Robsart Dudley, Robert Dudley, and Queen Elizabeth I. It is told from the point of view of both Amy and Elizabeth. My main complaint about the book is that it is too long and too repetitive in the telling of how mean Robert was to Amy. It also took too long to get to Elizabeth's point of view. I was getting so discouraged by the way Amy was treated that I almost quit reading this book several times.
December 3, 2019
The story itself is a page turner, it is captivating. I love historical fiction from the Tudor times and I was not disappointed. This gives a great twist to the Elizabeth/Robert/Amy story. Letting us into the characters heads to see and feel the joy, hope, love, despair, and eventual demise.
September 3, 2012
I am still a fairly new devotee of historical fiction and have read a few books centered in the Tudor era but this is the first book devoted to Queen Elizabeth I and, more especially, Amy Robsart Dudley, a figure much lesser known and written about in history.
The Queen's Pleasure is really Amy's story, told from her point of view as a young maiden desperately in love with the dashing Robert Dudley, transitioning to a blushing bride and then an unwanted and unloved wife, callously tossed aside for ambition. I loved Amy as presented in the book as much as I was frustrated with her - - although my frustration stems from Robert Dudley's shoddy treatment of her. It was very powerful to see through my reader's eyes the slow tearing down of a sweet, beguiling young girl, made into a fearful and suspicious woman who trusted no one. Even knowing her fate, I still hoped against hope that she would find happiness and the freedom she so richly deserved.
Sections of the book are also devoted to Elizabeth I and I must admit that in the first chapter or so, outside the beginning of the book, I didn't like Elizabeth and thought her to be as cold and cunning as Robert Dudley himself. However, further chapters showed a more humane and caring woman, a woman desperate to serve her country and learn from her mother's demise. I found Elizabeth to be a bundle of contradictions - - guilt-ridden over her affair with Robert Dudley, but selfish enough to sustain the illicit relationship; claiming to love Robert while admitting that he was a scheming liar who betrayed his wife and, most horribly of all, that he may very well have murdered her or had her murdered. Those contradictions made her a fascinating character, a steely, strong-willed woman who felt she could never marry just a man as she was already married to England.
Amy and Elizabeth were really two sides of a similar, if not the same, coin. Both were devoted in their own way to Robert Dudley, victims of his ambition. Both wanted nothing more than to be perfect in their expected roles - - Amy as Lady Dudley, Robert's wife and Elizabeth as a ruler to surpass her father. Both these women, as well as all others showcased in The Queen's Pleasure, are so vividly portrayed that I came away from this book feeling as though I had an inside track to Amy's thoughts and author Brandy Purdy took me to sixteenth century England as surely as if I had stepped into a time machine.
The writing is inviting, intense and flawless, rich with the flavor of English country life as well as court life. The political machinations, the tragedy to befall the Dudley family and the mystery surrounding Amy's death were weaved to captivating detail and the end result is a mesmerizing work of historical fiction that puts Brandy Purdy on my "must read" list.
I would not hesitate to highly recommend The Queen's Pleasure. It is what historical fiction should be.
©Psychotic State Book Reviews, 2012
The Queen's Pleasure is really Amy's story, told from her point of view as a young maiden desperately in love with the dashing Robert Dudley, transitioning to a blushing bride and then an unwanted and unloved wife, callously tossed aside for ambition. I loved Amy as presented in the book as much as I was frustrated with her - - although my frustration stems from Robert Dudley's shoddy treatment of her. It was very powerful to see through my reader's eyes the slow tearing down of a sweet, beguiling young girl, made into a fearful and suspicious woman who trusted no one. Even knowing her fate, I still hoped against hope that she would find happiness and the freedom she so richly deserved.
Sections of the book are also devoted to Elizabeth I and I must admit that in the first chapter or so, outside the beginning of the book, I didn't like Elizabeth and thought her to be as cold and cunning as Robert Dudley himself. However, further chapters showed a more humane and caring woman, a woman desperate to serve her country and learn from her mother's demise. I found Elizabeth to be a bundle of contradictions - - guilt-ridden over her affair with Robert Dudley, but selfish enough to sustain the illicit relationship; claiming to love Robert while admitting that he was a scheming liar who betrayed his wife and, most horribly of all, that he may very well have murdered her or had her murdered. Those contradictions made her a fascinating character, a steely, strong-willed woman who felt she could never marry just a man as she was already married to England.
Amy and Elizabeth were really two sides of a similar, if not the same, coin. Both were devoted in their own way to Robert Dudley, victims of his ambition. Both wanted nothing more than to be perfect in their expected roles - - Amy as Lady Dudley, Robert's wife and Elizabeth as a ruler to surpass her father. Both these women, as well as all others showcased in The Queen's Pleasure, are so vividly portrayed that I came away from this book feeling as though I had an inside track to Amy's thoughts and author Brandy Purdy took me to sixteenth century England as surely as if I had stepped into a time machine.
The writing is inviting, intense and flawless, rich with the flavor of English country life as well as court life. The political machinations, the tragedy to befall the Dudley family and the mystery surrounding Amy's death were weaved to captivating detail and the end result is a mesmerizing work of historical fiction that puts Brandy Purdy on my "must read" list.
I would not hesitate to highly recommend The Queen's Pleasure. It is what historical fiction should be.
©Psychotic State Book Reviews, 2012
November 3, 2014
Was it murder or suicide or even an accident? Did Robert Dudley murder his 1st wife or order her murdered? Did Amy Robsart Dudley choose suicide as a release from the terrors of breast cancer and her torturous marriage to Robert Dudley? I chose this book to know more of the facts and to imagine the emotions had by Amy and Elizabeth the 1st.
Brandy Purdy’s “The Queen’s Pleasure” captured me in the beginning pages and did not let go until the end of the Epilogue. The Epilogue was my favorite part. My husband was in another room when I read it and he asked me if anything was wrong!
The story is told through the voices of Amy Robsart Dudley and Elizabeth 1st. Amy was Robert Dudley, 1st Earl of Leicester’s first wife. They came from very different backgrounds. He was the son of the Duke of Northumberland and Lady Jane Grey. His father has tried to secure the throne for his wife and failed. Robert was at first enchanted with Amy. Amy was from the country and loved nature very much. She didn’t care for jewels or furs or titles, she just wanted a happy life. Then Robert became enamored with Elizabeth 1st or did he?
I loved the idea of telling the story of Amy’s life through the voices of Amy and Elizabeth 1st and enjoyed the description, songs and poems employed in this story. After reading this book, I felt that I could easily understand Amy’s and Elizabeth’s feelings towards Robert Dudley. This book also gives you an inside to the ravages of breast cancer and the guesses at its treatment in the 1560s.
Did Robert Dudley truly love Elizabeth the 1st or was it the crown instead? Why Elizabeth 1st did chose England over any marriage? I believe this book answers those questions. What was the true Robert Dudley like? I hated him! You can read this book and see how you feel towards him.
I really loved this book; it flowed so easily for me and never got boring. I felt that I learned a lot about the relationships of the Amy, Robert Dudley and Elizabeth 1st, feel very fortunate to be living in these times when it comes to medicine. I confess that I have read some negative criticism that complains about the long sentences in this book but since that is the way that I write it felt very natural!
So I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in historical fiction. I am going to hold on to this book. I look forward to reading more historical fiction from Brandy Purdy.
I received this book from the author, Brandy Purdy but that in no way influenced my review.
Brandy Purdy’s “The Queen’s Pleasure” captured me in the beginning pages and did not let go until the end of the Epilogue. The Epilogue was my favorite part. My husband was in another room when I read it and he asked me if anything was wrong!
The story is told through the voices of Amy Robsart Dudley and Elizabeth 1st. Amy was Robert Dudley, 1st Earl of Leicester’s first wife. They came from very different backgrounds. He was the son of the Duke of Northumberland and Lady Jane Grey. His father has tried to secure the throne for his wife and failed. Robert was at first enchanted with Amy. Amy was from the country and loved nature very much. She didn’t care for jewels or furs or titles, she just wanted a happy life. Then Robert became enamored with Elizabeth 1st or did he?
I loved the idea of telling the story of Amy’s life through the voices of Amy and Elizabeth 1st and enjoyed the description, songs and poems employed in this story. After reading this book, I felt that I could easily understand Amy’s and Elizabeth’s feelings towards Robert Dudley. This book also gives you an inside to the ravages of breast cancer and the guesses at its treatment in the 1560s.
Did Robert Dudley truly love Elizabeth the 1st or was it the crown instead? Why Elizabeth 1st did chose England over any marriage? I believe this book answers those questions. What was the true Robert Dudley like? I hated him! You can read this book and see how you feel towards him.
I really loved this book; it flowed so easily for me and never got boring. I felt that I learned a lot about the relationships of the Amy, Robert Dudley and Elizabeth 1st, feel very fortunate to be living in these times when it comes to medicine. I confess that I have read some negative criticism that complains about the long sentences in this book but since that is the way that I write it felt very natural!
So I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in historical fiction. I am going to hold on to this book. I look forward to reading more historical fiction from Brandy Purdy.
I received this book from the author, Brandy Purdy but that in no way influenced my review.
May 28, 2012
4.5 stars. I love, love, love reading just about anything about Queen Elizabeth I. She was strong and powerful and very unique. Oh, and she was a redhead and this redheaded reader loves fellow redheads ;) If you know anything about Queen Elizabeth I, you might know that she was Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn's daughter. You might know that her nickname was "The Virgin Queen." Or you might know that she had a long time lover named Robert Dudley. This book mostly focuses on Robert Dudley, told from the point of view of none other than Amy Dudley who is Robert's wife. Oh yeah, and Robert has relations with Queen Elizabeth while he's still married. Scandalous in the first degree!!!
I loved that this story is told mostly from Amy's point of view (Elizabeth tells some of the tale as well). It was a really unique point of view. Amy isn't a well known historical figure. Had she not been associated with Robert Dudley, we probably would not know her name. I felt horrible throughout the book for her. She knows exactly what's going on between Elizabeth and Robert. Robert buys Amy all sorts of things to keep her happy and out of his hair. He calls her a mistake and tells her all sorts of horrible things. Amy is basically stuck. Later on in the book, we find out that Amy is suffering from breast cancer on top of everything else she's going through.
Between the chapters narrated by Amy and those narrated by Elizabeth, we get to see how Robert is playing both of them. He's playing both of them just to play them but he's also playing them against each other. Even though Robert is really the one in between the two women, they both sort of blame the other for taking Robert away from each of them. It's an age old situation. Purdy did a fabulous job of really pulling the reader into the story of the pulling between these two women and one very conniving man.
This was the perfect book for me to get lost in. This is the best kind of historical fiction.
I loved that this story is told mostly from Amy's point of view (Elizabeth tells some of the tale as well). It was a really unique point of view. Amy isn't a well known historical figure. Had she not been associated with Robert Dudley, we probably would not know her name. I felt horrible throughout the book for her. She knows exactly what's going on between Elizabeth and Robert. Robert buys Amy all sorts of things to keep her happy and out of his hair. He calls her a mistake and tells her all sorts of horrible things. Amy is basically stuck. Later on in the book, we find out that Amy is suffering from breast cancer on top of everything else she's going through.
Between the chapters narrated by Amy and those narrated by Elizabeth, we get to see how Robert is playing both of them. He's playing both of them just to play them but he's also playing them against each other. Even though Robert is really the one in between the two women, they both sort of blame the other for taking Robert away from each of them. It's an age old situation. Purdy did a fabulous job of really pulling the reader into the story of the pulling between these two women and one very conniving man.
This was the perfect book for me to get lost in. This is the best kind of historical fiction.
July 29, 2012
The cover of the book says it's "A Novel of Elizabeth I and Robert Dudley". In my opinion, it's more of a novel of Elizabeth I and AMY Dudley. This book is far more about Amy Dudley, the much dusregarded wife of Robert Dudley. Little is written about her, but she was a significant factor in Robert's quest for the Crown of England.
In the beginning of this novel, the author jumped around in the time line.....something I do not like. But, after a few chapters she stuck to a chronological time line. I had forgotten that Ms. Purdy did that in her books. Nonetheless, I enjoyed the book. Reading from the standpoint of Amy Dudley was quite interesting to me as I have not read much regarding her. The manner of Amy's death in this book could have been how things happened. The mystery of her death will never be solved, and it carried major repercussions for Robert.
In the beginning of this novel, the author jumped around in the time line.....something I do not like. But, after a few chapters she stuck to a chronological time line. I had forgotten that Ms. Purdy did that in her books. Nonetheless, I enjoyed the book. Reading from the standpoint of Amy Dudley was quite interesting to me as I have not read much regarding her. The manner of Amy's death in this book could have been how things happened. The mystery of her death will never be solved, and it carried major repercussions for Robert.
July 10, 2012
The first half of The Queen's Pleasure was very hard to get through, mostly because I wanted to punch every single person. Robert was a total jerk, Amy was a pushover, and Elizabeth was just selfish. The tone of the book really changed though about half way through the book, and I started to really enjoy it.
The book is told over a 10 year period from first person perspectives of both Queen Elizabeth and Amy Robsart Dudley, Wife of Robert Dudley. The writing itself was good, and the voice of each of the women was different and distinct.
I received this as a LibraryThing Early Review book.
The book is told over a 10 year period from first person perspectives of both Queen Elizabeth and Amy Robsart Dudley, Wife of Robert Dudley. The writing itself was good, and the voice of each of the women was different and distinct.
I received this as a LibraryThing Early Review book.
March 21, 2016
Story of Amy Robsart, the wife of Robert Dudley. It paints a very negative picture of Robert -- they were married at age 17 and he very quickly realized that his ambitions did not include a shy, country-bred wife. As soon as he managed to spend her entire dowry and inheritance, he wanted to be rid of her so he could pursue and marry Elizabeth. He mistreated Amy and tried to manipulate Elizabeth into marriage and the crown (for him). Ultimately, it was Amy's death (still a mystery exactly how she died) that ruined his plans.
October 27, 2015
An interesting story about Amy Robsart, wife of Robert Dudley and his relationship with both her and Queen Elizabeth I. I liked the way it was told from both Amy and Elizabeth's view points.
However I found the writing style a bit difficult to get into, the author is very over descriptive and it distracts from the flow of the story.
However I found the writing style a bit difficult to get into, the author is very over descriptive and it distracts from the flow of the story.
April 1, 2012
the queen'spleasure>review>edit the queen's plea'sure(paperback) bybrany purdy change edition myrating bookshelves/tags what did you think?(somehtml isok)add books/auhor mr.matt mietelski mariely my friendilove you mr.matt mietelskiok yes no
February 10, 2025
Uncovering the love triangle between Queen Elizabeth I, Robert Dudley, and his wife Amy, and her mysterious death,
A Court Affair is an unforgettable story of ambition, lust and jealousy.
The future of the realm is in her hands…
Accused of conspiring with rebels to steal the throne, Princess Elizabeth is confined to the Tower of London by her half-sister, Queen Mary. There she finds solace in the arms of fellow prisoner – her childhood friend, Robert Dudley. But with Elizabeth’s ascension to the crown, Robert returns to his wife and the unhappy union he believes cheated him of his destiny to be king.
As Anne Boleyn’s daughter, Elizabeth knows the cruelty of marriage and roundly rejects her many suitors – with the exception of the power-hungry Robert. But their relationship carries a risk that could shake the very foundations of the House of Tudor. . .
My Thoughts:
This story is told by both Amy Dudley and Queen Elizabeth and centers around one man, Robert Dudley.
Amy’s story is a tragic one and this version of Amy is how I had imagined her, hopeless in love with Robert and a bit of a push over, always wanting to please him. Robert himself is as I imagined, very power hungry and will stop at nothing to get what he wants.
This story has it’s version of Amy’s death but what did really happen ? Did she accidentlt fall or throw herself down the stairs. Did Robert arrange her death to free himself for the queen, or did someone kill Amy to impicate Robert to stop him form being king. Did the queen herself have Amy killed. Who really knows !
The book itself was a nice read but a little overlong in places and Amy did whine on a bit too much. The style of this book seemed a little more placid unlike other books by Brandy/ Emily Purdy that have been a little bit more fun to read. Amy’s story is tragic so perhaps the tone of the book is to match the circumstances.
This book I would recommend to anybody who likes the Tudors, and it makes a change again to read about other people other tha Henry and Anne, although they will always be my favourite.
A Court Affair is an unforgettable story of ambition, lust and jealousy.
The future of the realm is in her hands…
Accused of conspiring with rebels to steal the throne, Princess Elizabeth is confined to the Tower of London by her half-sister, Queen Mary. There she finds solace in the arms of fellow prisoner – her childhood friend, Robert Dudley. But with Elizabeth’s ascension to the crown, Robert returns to his wife and the unhappy union he believes cheated him of his destiny to be king.
As Anne Boleyn’s daughter, Elizabeth knows the cruelty of marriage and roundly rejects her many suitors – with the exception of the power-hungry Robert. But their relationship carries a risk that could shake the very foundations of the House of Tudor. . .
My Thoughts:
This story is told by both Amy Dudley and Queen Elizabeth and centers around one man, Robert Dudley.
Amy’s story is a tragic one and this version of Amy is how I had imagined her, hopeless in love with Robert and a bit of a push over, always wanting to please him. Robert himself is as I imagined, very power hungry and will stop at nothing to get what he wants.
This story has it’s version of Amy’s death but what did really happen ? Did she accidentlt fall or throw herself down the stairs. Did Robert arrange her death to free himself for the queen, or did someone kill Amy to impicate Robert to stop him form being king. Did the queen herself have Amy killed. Who really knows !
The book itself was a nice read but a little overlong in places and Amy did whine on a bit too much. The style of this book seemed a little more placid unlike other books by Brandy/ Emily Purdy that have been a little bit more fun to read. Amy’s story is tragic so perhaps the tone of the book is to match the circumstances.
This book I would recommend to anybody who likes the Tudors, and it makes a change again to read about other people other tha Henry and Anne, although they will always be my favourite.
April 11, 2021
I've had one of those nasty colds when all you wanna do is curl up and sleep... doesn't really compute with fast reading lol!
Still, despite that, this book gave me insight into a world of mysogyny beyond today's imagination - a world where a woman really was her husband's property, and all she inherits is his, lock, stock and barrel. And when this book was finished, I wanted to cry. Not only for the main character, one all authors and biographers of those living at the time see as a bit player and immaterial, but also for another woman who was trapped by words - words that created a world in which women weren't seen as enough, where men had the upper hand and were not willing to see it even turned slightly - power was not for women and would take near five centuries to become even slightly less unequal.
The writing here is amazing, bringing to life this sad story - a story that brings inequality into sharp focus and slams it in the reader's face like a cold fish, if you get me. All our complaints today are like flotsam on the breeze compared to what life was like in the 16th century.
The feeling I get at the final pages is one of deep sadness - there is no happy ending for any of the characters, male or female, as there are in fairy tales. There is no love left in any of the main characters at the end, and the real world isn't nice, it's filled with betrayal, mixed messages, unrequited love and disappointed ambition. All this and more is captured in this book, and no matter the setting, the final message here is that life isn't a fairy tale, and all we want to do is reach back and give a little comfort to those who lost the wheel of fortune, whatever their riches or ambition or gender or however much they wish for a different outcome.
This could be set in any time, any country, any station of life, yet I think the moral would shine through and hit the reader in the face. The skills of the author are unquestionable, thanks! xx
Still, despite that, this book gave me insight into a world of mysogyny beyond today's imagination - a world where a woman really was her husband's property, and all she inherits is his, lock, stock and barrel. And when this book was finished, I wanted to cry. Not only for the main character, one all authors and biographers of those living at the time see as a bit player and immaterial, but also for another woman who was trapped by words - words that created a world in which women weren't seen as enough, where men had the upper hand and were not willing to see it even turned slightly - power was not for women and would take near five centuries to become even slightly less unequal.
The writing here is amazing, bringing to life this sad story - a story that brings inequality into sharp focus and slams it in the reader's face like a cold fish, if you get me. All our complaints today are like flotsam on the breeze compared to what life was like in the 16th century.
The feeling I get at the final pages is one of deep sadness - there is no happy ending for any of the characters, male or female, as there are in fairy tales. There is no love left in any of the main characters at the end, and the real world isn't nice, it's filled with betrayal, mixed messages, unrequited love and disappointed ambition. All this and more is captured in this book, and no matter the setting, the final message here is that life isn't a fairy tale, and all we want to do is reach back and give a little comfort to those who lost the wheel of fortune, whatever their riches or ambition or gender or however much they wish for a different outcome.
This could be set in any time, any country, any station of life, yet I think the moral would shine through and hit the reader in the face. The skills of the author are unquestionable, thanks! xx
May 9, 2022
I'm giving this three stars, because it utterly frustrated me. I couldn't bare to read about how Amy still was loyal to her husband Robert, despite how awful he treated her. She always loved him and I just wanted to slap her myself to stand up for herself.
However, I really enjoyed learning about this moment in history and about Elizabeth. I wished that Robert would be banished from court at the end, but sadly this did not happen. However, the pleasure of learning he never became King was great.
However, I really enjoyed learning about this moment in history and about Elizabeth. I wished that Robert would be banished from court at the end, but sadly this did not happen. However, the pleasure of learning he never became King was great.
August 19, 2025
This book follows the 'love triangle' between Amy Dudley, Robert Dudley, and Elizabeth I. Amy and Robert when they were young and Robert came to regret the marriage due to his ambitions and desire to become King via Elizabeth. This book is predominantly from Amy's perspective, and we're able to watch her love and respect for Robert crumble as he becomes more powerful. I felt for Amy as she could have had such a happy life but was abandoned and neglected for her husband's ambition.
September 17, 2019
Justice for Amy Robsart. Even though this is historical fiction you always wonder if he did hire someone to kill her or she committed suicide. Not only that if Robert Dudley would of been considered emotional abusive husband in this day and age.
January 12, 2022
I wasn't sire whether to give 3 or 4 stars, I am on the fence.
I enjoyed the story and the writing. The switching between time periods was a bit confusing. I alsp found one of the main characters to be a bit over the top and hysterical, although perhaps this was the aim of the author.
I enjoyed the story and the writing. The switching between time periods was a bit confusing. I alsp found one of the main characters to be a bit over the top and hysterical, although perhaps this was the aim of the author.
March 6, 2018
Go to my Blog for a detailed review:
https://beingyourselfiskey.weebly.com
April 5, 2019
couldn't get into it. the first 20% of the book is her complaining about how her husband loved her and left her
April 26, 2019
Couldn't put this down. Although it is fiction I love the tudor era and it was really interesting to read this well known story from the viewpoint of Amy Dudley.
August 6, 2019
Very disappointed. To much back and forth between Alice and Robert, barley any by Elizabeth.
August 18, 2022
Robert is AWFUL
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews