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The Virgin Queen's Daughter
As captivating now as it was more than four centuries ago, the reign of Elizabeth I—with its scandal, intrigue, and resilience—has sparked the imaginations of generations. In her sweeping historical debut, Ella March Chase explores a thrilling that the Tudor bloodline did not end with the Virgin Queen.
Tucked away in the country estate of her beloved father, Lord Calverley, young Nell de Lacey feeds her hungry mind with philosophy, language, and studies of science. Her mother, once a devoted lady-in-waiting to Henry VIII’s last wife, Katherine Parr, would rather her daughter stop dabbling in the grand affairs of men and instead prepare for her eventual duties as a wife. She knows all too well what menace lurks in royal courts.
But Nell’s heart yearns for something more, and a chance meeting with Princess Elizabeth, then a prisoner of the Tower of London, pushes her closer toward finding it. Now, years later, Nell’s chance arrives when she is summoned to serve as a lady-in-waiting to the newly crowned Queen Elizabeth. Nell is entranced by the splendor and pageantry of royal life, unaware of the danger and deception that swirls around the monarch and her courtiers.
But a lingering rumor about nine unaccounted for months in the Virgin Queen’s past reignites when the flame-haired Nell—a mirror image of Her Majesty both physically and intellectually—arrives at court. Quickly she catches the eye not only of the cunning Elizabeth, but of those who would see the queen fail. With strong evidence to connect Elizabeth to her newest maid of honor and the politics of England in turmoil, the truth could send Nell and those she loves to the Tower to join in the wretched fates of those who’ve gone before her.
Engrossing and enlightening, The Virgin Queen’s Daughter brings to life one of the greatest mysteries of one of the greatest monarchs. Ella March Chase’s vivid storytelling gives due credence to a daughter who might have been and a mother who never was.
Tucked away in the country estate of her beloved father, Lord Calverley, young Nell de Lacey feeds her hungry mind with philosophy, language, and studies of science. Her mother, once a devoted lady-in-waiting to Henry VIII’s last wife, Katherine Parr, would rather her daughter stop dabbling in the grand affairs of men and instead prepare for her eventual duties as a wife. She knows all too well what menace lurks in royal courts.
But Nell’s heart yearns for something more, and a chance meeting with Princess Elizabeth, then a prisoner of the Tower of London, pushes her closer toward finding it. Now, years later, Nell’s chance arrives when she is summoned to serve as a lady-in-waiting to the newly crowned Queen Elizabeth. Nell is entranced by the splendor and pageantry of royal life, unaware of the danger and deception that swirls around the monarch and her courtiers.
But a lingering rumor about nine unaccounted for months in the Virgin Queen’s past reignites when the flame-haired Nell—a mirror image of Her Majesty both physically and intellectually—arrives at court. Quickly she catches the eye not only of the cunning Elizabeth, but of those who would see the queen fail. With strong evidence to connect Elizabeth to her newest maid of honor and the politics of England in turmoil, the truth could send Nell and those she loves to the Tower to join in the wretched fates of those who’ve gone before her.
Engrossing and enlightening, The Virgin Queen’s Daughter brings to life one of the greatest mysteries of one of the greatest monarchs. Ella March Chase’s vivid storytelling gives due credence to a daughter who might have been and a mother who never was.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published December 30, 2008
152 people are currently reading
10802 people want to read
About the author
Ella March Chase
4 books157 followersWhen Ella March Chase was in third grade, she informed her teacher she didn't need to learn multiplication tables because she was going to be a famous writer when she grew up. At twenty-five, she combined her passion for researching history and spinning stories. Her daughter Kate claims even the family dogs were discovered while researching King Charles II-- Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
When traveling to England she fell under the spell of the Tower of London—the infamous Traitor’s Gate, the chapel where beheaded queens lay buried, the story of the two princes allegedly murdered by Richard III. Ella began unearthing the obscure historical details that make larger than life figures painfully human. While reading biographies of Elizabeth Tudor, she kept stumbling across references to rumors that the 'Virgin Queen' secretly bore a child. Fascinated by the possibility, she delved deeper, discovering that a midwife actually claimed to have delivered a baby to 'a very fair lady' she vowed was Elizabeth.
Ella began to imagine-- what if the midwife, now nurse to a fiercely intellectual red-haired girl-- claimed the child was Elizabeth's daughter? The queen was constantly beleaguered by those who labeled her 'Anne Boleyn's bastard' with no right to the throne. The existence of 'the Virgin Queen's daughter'-- even in rumor-- could mean disaster. If the child were real it would be a weapon that could topple her from her throne. Elizabeth Tudor claimed in her famous speech at the crisis of the Spanish Armada "I have the heart and stomach of a king." Would she have the ruthlessness of her own father, Henry VIII, to save her crown from such a threat?
When traveling to England she fell under the spell of the Tower of London—the infamous Traitor’s Gate, the chapel where beheaded queens lay buried, the story of the two princes allegedly murdered by Richard III. Ella began unearthing the obscure historical details that make larger than life figures painfully human. While reading biographies of Elizabeth Tudor, she kept stumbling across references to rumors that the 'Virgin Queen' secretly bore a child. Fascinated by the possibility, she delved deeper, discovering that a midwife actually claimed to have delivered a baby to 'a very fair lady' she vowed was Elizabeth.
Ella began to imagine-- what if the midwife, now nurse to a fiercely intellectual red-haired girl-- claimed the child was Elizabeth's daughter? The queen was constantly beleaguered by those who labeled her 'Anne Boleyn's bastard' with no right to the throne. The existence of 'the Virgin Queen's daughter'-- even in rumor-- could mean disaster. If the child were real it would be a weapon that could topple her from her throne. Elizabeth Tudor claimed in her famous speech at the crisis of the Spanish Armada "I have the heart and stomach of a king." Would she have the ruthlessness of her own father, Henry VIII, to save her crown from such a threat?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 272 reviews
September 16, 2014
This book is hilariously awful. The protagonist, Nell, does NOTHING but go to court and then fret about danger in melodramatic and passive self-indulgent agony. That's it. That's the story. Life at court isn't particularly fleshed out, but apparently it's very, very dangerous. I know, because every character says so. Over and over. Yet the precise source of danger is often murky and weirdly inconsistent (and, as is usual for female protagonists these days, Nell is SOOOOOOOOO STUPID in handling it, even though she's supposed to be SOOOOOOO SMART). The only interesting part of this book for me is the incorporation of John Dee, but he's not well developed, and even though he brings some heavy-handed foreshadowing to the story, nothing really comes of his background presence by the end. His primary function is to introduce prophecy ("someone's important! stuff may be dangerous!"), but when everyone else in the story is already running around saying the same thing, Dee's inklings hardly seem insightful. Also there's a ludicrous love story plunked on top of all the stupid agony (starring the Gypsy's Angel--that's his NAME).
On the plus side, Chase seems to have had a decent copy editor. The story is a very polished sort of bad.
On the plus side, Chase seems to have had a decent copy editor. The story is a very polished sort of bad.
July 2, 2011
This book is historical-fiction to the max. It takes a purely hypothetical case and runs with it. The plus? It runs with it in the richest way possible!
Based on the speculation that Elizabeth I was impregnated and gave birth in the country side with a secret mid-wife, Ella March Chase creates a story on a young child (Elinor) who is brought to court and realizes a close bond with Elizabeth. They both soon realize that this bond may be deeper. As deep and mother and daughter.
Sound too fluffy to be your style? The story actually works and even with my biased nature toward actual history books, I still enjoyed it. Yes, it has cheesy and over-the-top moments but it is more believable than some other historical-fiction books out there.
Good for entertainment and some "fun" thrills based on a "what if?" situation.
Based on the speculation that Elizabeth I was impregnated and gave birth in the country side with a secret mid-wife, Ella March Chase creates a story on a young child (Elinor) who is brought to court and realizes a close bond with Elizabeth. They both soon realize that this bond may be deeper. As deep and mother and daughter.
Sound too fluffy to be your style? The story actually works and even with my biased nature toward actual history books, I still enjoyed it. Yes, it has cheesy and over-the-top moments but it is more believable than some other historical-fiction books out there.
Good for entertainment and some "fun" thrills based on a "what if?" situation.
December 16, 2011
The Virgin Queen's daughter is an fictionalised account of what could have happened if Queen Elizabeth had had an daughter from her illicit and infamous 'affair' with Thomas Seymour (her step-father). Nell, the main character, was quite fiesty, intelligent and stubborn which I quite liked very much. In a day and age where women were not given the same liberties in pursuing education as men, Nell is an vibrant young woman who craves to learn about the world-which sets out to also to nearly become her undoing.
In court, she not only has the freedom of exercising her mind but also tackling wits with Queen Elizabeth herself as well as the other courtiers and ladies in waiting.
What I loved about this book was the thick layer of intrigue and mystery that surrounded Nell at court where any type of whiff or scandal could be life-threatening to her and her loved ones.
Also what I loved was the Romance between Nell and Sir Gabriel Wyatt, an incredibly handsome and sarcastic courtier who has many secrets of his own and would do anything to elevate his position in court, even by ruthless means. I loved the chemistry between these two, especially I found out there was far more to Gabriel Wyatt then meets the eye and how he become the man he is.
The only flaw I could find in the novel was that it took Nell quite awhile to figure out that she was Queen Elizabeth's 'secret' daughter when the reader already knew this from reading the title of the book!
In court, she not only has the freedom of exercising her mind but also tackling wits with Queen Elizabeth herself as well as the other courtiers and ladies in waiting.
What I loved about this book was the thick layer of intrigue and mystery that surrounded Nell at court where any type of whiff or scandal could be life-threatening to her and her loved ones.
Also what I loved was the Romance between Nell and Sir Gabriel Wyatt, an incredibly handsome and sarcastic courtier who has many secrets of his own and would do anything to elevate his position in court, even by ruthless means. I loved the chemistry between these two, especially I found out there was far more to Gabriel Wyatt then meets the eye and how he become the man he is.
The only flaw I could find in the novel was that it took Nell quite awhile to figure out that she was Queen Elizabeth's 'secret' daughter when the reader already knew this from reading the title of the book!
April 30, 2009
There are rumors that Queen Elizabeth had a child in the years that she stayed with Catherine Parr as a young adult. This story imagines what might have happened if Elizabeth had had a daughter in secret. Nell de Lacey grew up knowing nothing of the terrible circumstances surrounding her birth. Elizabeth thought her daughter had been killed after birth to destroy the damning evidence of her affair. In secret, the midwife had taken the child and delivered her to a mother unable to have children of her own. Now years later, Nell has become a lady-in-waiting to Queen Elizabeth and old secrets are starting to unravel.
This is an engrossing historical romance full of intrigue and suspense. I enjoyed the storyline and the well-drawn setting. However, the writing could use some improvement. Often times, the author would reveal something that she wanted the reader to know about the characters by simply having another character ask a pointed question. This was used far too often and it seemed like a cheap literary device. She would also refer to one thing or another in a way that was inappropriate to the storyline in order to introduce a subject. This brought me out of the story that I so desperately wanted to be caught up in. The story was wonderful and I believe the writing will improve over time. Overall, the novel was enjoyable, but it could use some work.
This is an engrossing historical romance full of intrigue and suspense. I enjoyed the storyline and the well-drawn setting. However, the writing could use some improvement. Often times, the author would reveal something that she wanted the reader to know about the characters by simply having another character ask a pointed question. This was used far too often and it seemed like a cheap literary device. She would also refer to one thing or another in a way that was inappropriate to the storyline in order to introduce a subject. This brought me out of the story that I so desperately wanted to be caught up in. The story was wonderful and I believe the writing will improve over time. Overall, the novel was enjoyable, but it could use some work.
May 29, 2017
Sometimes I love a book that starts with a premise, a what if. What if Queen Elizabeth Tudor had a baby when she was a young girl after being seduced by her stepfather. I know historical fiction, is just that: fiction. But putting the issue of historical accuracy aside, a reader does learn some history while reading this genre. I was fascinated by the Elizabethan court and all the intrigues that went with it. I found myself questioning which characters were real, and which made up. It made me want to look up the true history, and check the facts myself. This wasn't a page turner, but still a satisfying read.
July 2, 2012
I'm half way through and can't put it down! I don't want to give anything away but I'm at the part that is jaw droppingly shocking!! A must read for history buffs and romantics alike!!
UPDATE: Since I have finished reading the book at 1:30AM I can say it was suspenseful to the end!! I couldn't put it down until it was done because there was just too many questions that didn't get answered until the last 10 pages or so!!! AWESOME!!
UPDATE: Since I have finished reading the book at 1:30AM I can say it was suspenseful to the end!! I couldn't put it down until it was done because there was just too many questions that didn't get answered until the last 10 pages or so!!! AWESOME!!
August 31, 2010
This historical fiction book was a hoot to read. I knew very little about Queen Elizabeth the first and it was fun to learn more about her and those that surrounded her during her reign as England most beloved Queen. The book sort of has it all...tension, romance, history, mystery, and wit
The main character Nell is intelligent and realistic and I loved watching her character grow and change. I loved the chemistry between her and Sir Gabriel. I thought Queen Elizabeth was protrayed very well. She wasn't over idealized and she had many layers that covered a complex historical character.
There are two sex scenes that were more descriptive than I normally read but I felt like they were tastefully written. My only complaint is that I was left with one question at the end that the author purposefully chose not to answer. I know why it was that way but I'm a curious person so I really wanted to know!
The main character Nell is intelligent and realistic and I loved watching her character grow and change. I loved the chemistry between her and Sir Gabriel. I thought Queen Elizabeth was protrayed very well. She wasn't over idealized and she had many layers that covered a complex historical character.
There are two sex scenes that were more descriptive than I normally read but I felt like they were tastefully written. My only complaint is that I was left with one question at the end that the author purposefully chose not to answer. I know why it was that way but I'm a curious person so I really wanted to know!
August 25, 2011
This book was hauntingly spellbinding. The suggestion that Queen Elizabeth had a daughter as a result of her scandalous liaisons with either Thomas Seymour or Robert Dudley made for a truly fascinating read. I loved how Chase introduced the character of Nell de Lacy, revolving the narrative around her, and then interweaving the possibilities of her being the secret daughter of the Queen.
Queen Elizabeth is painted as the scholared, disciplined, bitter ruler that most historical sources portray her as being, but subtle implications are hinted that deep down, she did have a tender side, especially in regard to her lifelong nurse, Cat Ashley. Nell was a strong-willed protagonist that equaled the Queen in both intellect and determination, the duo sparring to see who would weaken first.
I also appreciate novels that do not aggrandize courtly life, but instead, describe the treacheries, changes of allegiance and dangers that really lurked there.
Queen Elizabeth is painted as the scholared, disciplined, bitter ruler that most historical sources portray her as being, but subtle implications are hinted that deep down, she did have a tender side, especially in regard to her lifelong nurse, Cat Ashley. Nell was a strong-willed protagonist that equaled the Queen in both intellect and determination, the duo sparring to see who would weaken first.
I also appreciate novels that do not aggrandize courtly life, but instead, describe the treacheries, changes of allegiance and dangers that really lurked there.
August 21, 2009
Filled with tidbits and info again that are fun...... like midwives cutting a bit of the bedding from the sides of wealthy women to prove they were there..and perhaps verify hidden births. A fun read, filled with enough history to be informative and enough speculation (elizabeth with a daughter) to be fun.
[close:] As captivating now as it was more than four centuries ago, the reign of Elizabeth I—with its scandal, intrigue, and resilience—has sparked the imaginations of generations. In her sweeping historical debut, Ella March Chase explores a thrilling possibility: that the Tudor bloodline did not end with the Virgin Queen
[close:] As captivating now as it was more than four centuries ago, the reign of Elizabeth I—with its scandal, intrigue, and resilience—has sparked the imaginations of generations. In her sweeping historical debut, Ella March Chase explores a thrilling possibility: that the Tudor bloodline did not end with the Virgin Queen
November 7, 2009
WOW - I knew Elizabeth was vain and always worried about keeping her crown, but this book sure plays that aspect up. Whether it is real or imagined, the portrait of Elizabeth is harsher than I realized. I found the main character Nell De Lacey entirely believable and enjoyed the constant intrigue from the court. I enjoyed the role that science and the new scientific ideas played in the story... What a cruel time to live in!
October 2, 2018
I had a hard time just getting through the first few chapters. The plot had promise but the characters, though grounded in history just were not drawn by the author so I even cared for them.
July 31, 2022
Although Nell’s mother was once at court, she has kept Nell from going. But when Nell meets Queen Elizabeth, she is intrigued and vows to go when she’s old enough. And she does. But after she is there, things become dangerous.
Ok, not a great summary. I listened to the audio and did lose interest a number of times. Unfortunately, for some reason, although historical fiction used to be one of my favourite genres, it doesn’t always grab me like it used to. Also, Elizabeth has never been my favourite historical person to read about. I’m not sure what it is (or isn’t) about her, but books abour her don’t usually catch my interest for long. I’m rating it 3 stars (ok), but I feel a bit like I’m rating it higher than I should.
Ok, not a great summary. I listened to the audio and did lose interest a number of times. Unfortunately, for some reason, although historical fiction used to be one of my favourite genres, it doesn’t always grab me like it used to. Also, Elizabeth has never been my favourite historical person to read about. I’m not sure what it is (or isn’t) about her, but books abour her don’t usually catch my interest for long. I’m rating it 3 stars (ok), but I feel a bit like I’m rating it higher than I should.
October 4, 2017
Who knew there was a rumour about Elizabeth I having a daughter? And what a great premise for a novel. I enjoyed it thoroughly.
October 30, 2016
A little girl sees a beautiful princess locked up and scales a fence with a magical key to set the princess free. This action will start her future when that princess is Queen Elizabeth Tudor. Elinor de Lacey runs from her mom after her father dies to start a life at court. Many surprises await her there and not all are good. She is only gifted her intellect to get her through these years where she will learn what is really important to her.
Highly recommend to love story enthusiasts and history (especially Tudors) fans
Highly recommend to love story enthusiasts and history (especially Tudors) fans
July 20, 2017
Captivating story of Queen Elizabeth I.
A different twist on history,and the intrigues of Tudor court life. It was a fun read to see what the next page would bring. Loved it!
A different twist on history,and the intrigues of Tudor court life. It was a fun read to see what the next page would bring. Loved it!
May 26, 2023
DNF. I just couldn't get into the book. This was so disappointing because the concept of Elizabeth having a "bastard" child was so intriguing to me, and I would have loved to really get into a well-researched historical fiction based around that concept.
Unfortunately, I was unable to really get past the first 30 pages because I just didn't care for Nell. The idea that a five year old was holding conversations as complex as the ones she was having in the book just seemed way over the top for me. I have raised 3 kids, and I have worked with many 5 year-olds. I have yet to see one who talked like Nell. The rest of the dialog was stiff and took away from the story rather than immerse me in it. I was also bothered by the use of stays - a five year old girl would have still been in her nursery dress with a pinafore until she was 7. I know the stays are a little nit-picky, but the line about the boning in the stays she was wearing really bothered me. If you are going to slip that into the story, please give some context - was there a reason they were dressing her in stays a few years early?
All in all I wanted to like the book, but I just couldn't get past those first few pages.
Unfortunately, I was unable to really get past the first 30 pages because I just didn't care for Nell. The idea that a five year old was holding conversations as complex as the ones she was having in the book just seemed way over the top for me. I have raised 3 kids, and I have worked with many 5 year-olds. I have yet to see one who talked like Nell. The rest of the dialog was stiff and took away from the story rather than immerse me in it. I was also bothered by the use of stays - a five year old girl would have still been in her nursery dress with a pinafore until she was 7. I know the stays are a little nit-picky, but the line about the boning in the stays she was wearing really bothered me. If you are going to slip that into the story, please give some context - was there a reason they were dressing her in stays a few years early?
All in all I wanted to like the book, but I just couldn't get past those first few pages.
October 24, 2017
Intriguing
Very well written, enthralling story about the daughter Queen Elizabeth might have had. Those were turbulent times when justice was scarce and the monarch and their henchmen could murder at will. I was hoping for a happy ending and I'm glad it happened.
Very well written, enthralling story about the daughter Queen Elizabeth might have had. Those were turbulent times when justice was scarce and the monarch and their henchmen could murder at will. I was hoping for a happy ending and I'm glad it happened.
September 7, 2017
Is she or isn't she?
We never find out for sure. The characters are great and it's a possibility, that Elizabeth had a child if you follow the reasoning if Ms. Chase. There has certainly been c!aims throughout history, and those claims have been put into a great fictional read here. The story certainly follows history closely enough to imagine reality and enjoy the intrigue and romance.
We never find out for sure. The characters are great and it's a possibility, that Elizabeth had a child if you follow the reasoning if Ms. Chase. There has certainly been c!aims throughout history, and those claims have been put into a great fictional read here. The story certainly follows history closely enough to imagine reality and enjoy the intrigue and romance.
August 24, 2022
3 1/2 stars
An interesting what-if situation.
An interesting what-if situation.
September 9, 2017
Great Story!
Wonderful story, great characters and an interesting take on the history of Queen Elizabeth. The story kept my interest until the very end.
Wonderful story, great characters and an interesting take on the history of Queen Elizabeth. The story kept my interest until the very end.
April 30, 2009
(kind of spoilers but without revealing any particular plot details)
I have vacillated between two or three stars for this one; I have settled on three simply because the story was ultimately enjoyable and somewhat engaging, though quite transparent.
There have been a few times I have been irritated by the plot developments in a book but have never thought deeply enough to identify what it was that bothered me so. In this book, I was able to clarify that irritation. So... the protagonist has a deep, dark secret. It is very clear that if she does not make a decision and react quickly, the secret will likely destroy her life and the lives of those she loves. So she considers her choices... and then reacts by choosing nothing at all. She sits back and acts like the secret/problem doesn't exist and then, of course, the secret... destroys her life and the lives of those she loves. This is typically done by the actions of someone else acting upon the secret, much to the protagonist's horror. I hate this kind of "plot development". Yes, I appreciate that the secret was revealed by the character's inability or refusal to act, thus making her feel all guilty or complicit in the disaster that follows. And this isn't necessarily bad because the character (sometimes) learns something from what she did. But it somehow seems... lazy on part of the author. Maybe this is because I cannot imagine having some deep, dark secret of my own with which I have options to try and take control of what will happen next and instead of doing so... I just sit back and let "fate" or the other people around me (who are anxious to destroy me), decide what to do (because of course - at least in a novel - the protagonist isn't the only one who knows the secret, which is why she must react). I suppose that if the character were shown, earlier in the book, to be the type to sit back and deny what was happening to her, I might better understand. But this was not that sort of character... I enjoyed her in part because of her strength and then couldn't believe it when she just sat back and did nothing. Sure, the results morphed into the next plot development but.... I would, at least, find it much more acceptable if the protagonist actually tried to do something to help herself and then have the plans go awry by the bad guy. Then at least she tried.
Also a bit put off by the author trying to educate the reader by basically explaining something. For example, the protagonist finds out that another character, who has inherited the family title and estates, has two brothers. So she thinks to herself, "Wow, I didn't know he had two brothers. If they are older than him, then they should have inherited the title and estates!" Basically, the author wanted to explain the English inheritance laws to the reader. She did this sort of thing a few times. I think that just by tweaking it a little bit she could educate (and I'm wondering just how many readers - even those not very familiar with old English inheritance laws - wouldn't have already known this) and be less intrusive, as that particular line just threw me right out of the story.
I have yet to read Philipa Gregory (couldn't get into her one book I tried) and I have read other reviews that basically say, "This is better than Gregory!". I get the impression that Gregory often writes what is basically a romance novel with real historical people involved. This is what this book is (and I used to read historical romances regularly so this is no criticism) and I've come to understand that romances are considered to be more mainstream fiction if they have real historical figures involved. I saw little difference between this book and genre-specific historical romances save for the real life people involved.
Mainly rather enjoyable. If I saw another book by the same author I'd probably pick it up but likely only if it involved another historical figure that I was particularly interested in. And for the people who criticize the main premise of the novel... that's why it's called FICTION, people, not biography.
I have vacillated between two or three stars for this one; I have settled on three simply because the story was ultimately enjoyable and somewhat engaging, though quite transparent.
There have been a few times I have been irritated by the plot developments in a book but have never thought deeply enough to identify what it was that bothered me so. In this book, I was able to clarify that irritation. So... the protagonist has a deep, dark secret. It is very clear that if she does not make a decision and react quickly, the secret will likely destroy her life and the lives of those she loves. So she considers her choices... and then reacts by choosing nothing at all. She sits back and acts like the secret/problem doesn't exist and then, of course, the secret... destroys her life and the lives of those she loves. This is typically done by the actions of someone else acting upon the secret, much to the protagonist's horror. I hate this kind of "plot development". Yes, I appreciate that the secret was revealed by the character's inability or refusal to act, thus making her feel all guilty or complicit in the disaster that follows. And this isn't necessarily bad because the character (sometimes) learns something from what she did. But it somehow seems... lazy on part of the author. Maybe this is because I cannot imagine having some deep, dark secret of my own with which I have options to try and take control of what will happen next and instead of doing so... I just sit back and let "fate" or the other people around me (who are anxious to destroy me), decide what to do (because of course - at least in a novel - the protagonist isn't the only one who knows the secret, which is why she must react). I suppose that if the character were shown, earlier in the book, to be the type to sit back and deny what was happening to her, I might better understand. But this was not that sort of character... I enjoyed her in part because of her strength and then couldn't believe it when she just sat back and did nothing. Sure, the results morphed into the next plot development but.... I would, at least, find it much more acceptable if the protagonist actually tried to do something to help herself and then have the plans go awry by the bad guy. Then at least she tried.
Also a bit put off by the author trying to educate the reader by basically explaining something. For example, the protagonist finds out that another character, who has inherited the family title and estates, has two brothers. So she thinks to herself, "Wow, I didn't know he had two brothers. If they are older than him, then they should have inherited the title and estates!" Basically, the author wanted to explain the English inheritance laws to the reader. She did this sort of thing a few times. I think that just by tweaking it a little bit she could educate (and I'm wondering just how many readers - even those not very familiar with old English inheritance laws - wouldn't have already known this) and be less intrusive, as that particular line just threw me right out of the story.
I have yet to read Philipa Gregory (couldn't get into her one book I tried) and I have read other reviews that basically say, "This is better than Gregory!". I get the impression that Gregory often writes what is basically a romance novel with real historical people involved. This is what this book is (and I used to read historical romances regularly so this is no criticism) and I've come to understand that romances are considered to be more mainstream fiction if they have real historical figures involved. I saw little difference between this book and genre-specific historical romances save for the real life people involved.
Mainly rather enjoyable. If I saw another book by the same author I'd probably pick it up but likely only if it involved another historical figure that I was particularly interested in. And for the people who criticize the main premise of the novel... that's why it's called FICTION, people, not biography.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2017
I am a big buff of historical fiction especially dealing with the Tudor line so I was really excited to delve into this new series. This book had it all. The court life during this period is just fascinating. People changing loyalties at the blink of an eye. This book deals specifically with the What if. What if Queen Elizabeth had a daughter she didn't realize existed? (I know that sounds impossible but read the book! You'll see). What if she came to court? What if Queen Elizabeth suspected she would make a push for the throne? I'm completely hooked and headed into the second one immediately. Definitely worth your time.
December 11, 2009
I thought it was an interesting take on the life of Queen Elizabeth and the "what if" scenario. It never occured to me that such a thing could have possibly have happened. Who knows? this book explores it well and what I loved the most about it was the realistic account of court life during that specific time period. There was no romanticizing court life, it's more cutthroat, like being in a lion's den and no one is really safe from anybody. One little rumor and everything could fall like a pack of dominos lined up one after the other. It was certainly a very intriguing and interesting book I couldn't find myself to put it down. It was well written, wonderful descriptions and to the point, court life was realistic and there is LOTS of intrigue. There is so much plotting going on you start feeling like Nell, and you feel you can't trust anybody with any of your secrets in the court. It was an absolute fun and interesting read.
I liked Nell from beginning to end. She was so strong and although a bit headstrong and naive at times, she's mature enough to learn from her mistakes and continue to stay strong. Her traits were admirable and inspiring. I liked her relationship to Gabriel as well. They did suit each other and although it was obvious he was trying to help her, you couldn't help but mistrust him at the same time. He may seem very immature at first, and you share a dislike in him as Nell did at first, but as their relationship develops, you eventually accept him, and like him too. I also loved Nell's friendship with Mary Grey although an odd pair at first, and probably friends because they were "outcasts", Mary was probably one of the very few decent ladies in court (you'll find the maids of honor are rather catty and hard to deal with).
Queen Elizabeth wasn't the nicest Queen either in this book, and I liked how the book portrayed her. Sometimes it does get tiring of reading on how great she was, I'm sure she has her evil bad days as well. In this book you'll find a much more mean, catty, jealous side to Elizabeth and not the wonderful regal Queen we're so used to reading about.
The only criticism I can give to this book is, a little more historical information should have been given in the Author's note. It might help to have a bit more of an introduction for those that aren't too well versed with the history behind the Tudors.
Overall, a wonderful exciting intriguing book about life in Queen Elizabeth's court, I definitely recommend this book to fans of Tudor England.
I liked Nell from beginning to end. She was so strong and although a bit headstrong and naive at times, she's mature enough to learn from her mistakes and continue to stay strong. Her traits were admirable and inspiring. I liked her relationship to Gabriel as well. They did suit each other and although it was obvious he was trying to help her, you couldn't help but mistrust him at the same time. He may seem very immature at first, and you share a dislike in him as Nell did at first, but as their relationship develops, you eventually accept him, and like him too. I also loved Nell's friendship with Mary Grey although an odd pair at first, and probably friends because they were "outcasts", Mary was probably one of the very few decent ladies in court (you'll find the maids of honor are rather catty and hard to deal with).
Queen Elizabeth wasn't the nicest Queen either in this book, and I liked how the book portrayed her. Sometimes it does get tiring of reading on how great she was, I'm sure she has her evil bad days as well. In this book you'll find a much more mean, catty, jealous side to Elizabeth and not the wonderful regal Queen we're so used to reading about.
The only criticism I can give to this book is, a little more historical information should have been given in the Author's note. It might help to have a bit more of an introduction for those that aren't too well versed with the history behind the Tudors.
Overall, a wonderful exciting intriguing book about life in Queen Elizabeth's court, I definitely recommend this book to fans of Tudor England.
December 10, 2020
Dude. It's me buying a book for the cover again. I can't resist laces and frills.
As to the story, well, it doesn't need summarizing or anything. Yes it's about Elizabeth I (did she? didn't she?) and a very intelligent and learned (she's the narrator, we have it all from her own mouth) young girl. There is sort of happy end, although not an official recognition. There is a romance, a bit predictable, but all right, the guy is sort of interesting... There is Dr Dee too, but nothing comes out of it (he appears only in order to acknowledge the brilliance of the heroine).
I liked the premise; it comes from the common practice of midwives of the time, who were often forced to help with deliveries of unwanted/illegitimate children, the practice being to slice in secret a piece of the bedding or whatever piece of fabric from the bed, because it could come in handy later (in case the baby got murdered, or the midwife wanted to try a bit of blackmail, I suppose). But the delivery (lol) was mostly very bland, or maybe I am tired with feisty well-born girls who want to be ahead of their time, rebel and stuff and then end up marrying and maintaining a huge estate anyway.
And having a female character preach to her daughter how women have to obey men because women are inferior is, to me, a very clumsy attempt at adding some historical color. I'm pretty sure that women of the past might have had their lives poisoned by misogyny and such, but somewhat I don't believe they bought into it so easily - not in this way. The verisimilitude was very much undermined by the heroine striving to be unusual and clever, and opposed to all other women in the book. All right, there was sort of 90 degree turn at some point, but it didn't change much. I understand the noble intentions of the book, but... I liked Mary Grey though - now that was an interesting character. The 3rd star is for her.
So, in the words of Mannoroth, "a worthy effort, but futile".
As to the story, well, it doesn't need summarizing or anything. Yes it's about Elizabeth I (did she? didn't she?) and a very intelligent and learned (she's the narrator, we have it all from her own mouth) young girl. There is sort of happy end, although not an official recognition. There is a romance, a bit predictable, but all right, the guy is sort of interesting... There is Dr Dee too, but nothing comes out of it (he appears only in order to acknowledge the brilliance of the heroine).
I liked the premise; it comes from the common practice of midwives of the time, who were often forced to help with deliveries of unwanted/illegitimate children, the practice being to slice in secret a piece of the bedding or whatever piece of fabric from the bed, because it could come in handy later (in case the baby got murdered, or the midwife wanted to try a bit of blackmail, I suppose). But the delivery (lol) was mostly very bland, or maybe I am tired with feisty well-born girls who want to be ahead of their time, rebel and stuff and then end up marrying and maintaining a huge estate anyway.
And having a female character preach to her daughter how women have to obey men because women are inferior is, to me, a very clumsy attempt at adding some historical color. I'm pretty sure that women of the past might have had their lives poisoned by misogyny and such, but somewhat I don't believe they bought into it so easily - not in this way. The verisimilitude was very much undermined by the heroine striving to be unusual and clever, and opposed to all other women in the book. All right, there was sort of 90 degree turn at some point, but it didn't change much. I understand the noble intentions of the book, but... I liked Mary Grey though - now that was an interesting character. The 3rd star is for her.
So, in the words of Mannoroth, "a worthy effort, but futile".
January 13, 2012
Another one I was not quite sure about. But it has a fun story, it's historical fiction, I didn't know much about Queen Elizabeth. There was some suspense that made that last 100 pages hard to find a place to stop.
July 14, 2017
I love to read stories about this time period. The authors caught my attention immediately and kept it throughout the entire book. I wish the Queen could have acknowledged Nell as her daughter but that would have been too far from the truth.
May 7, 2017
Exceedingly well-written. And a believable love story to boot.
October 8, 2017
This is an interesting story about Elizabeth I of England. The premise is that a midwife is brought to a woman blindfolded to deliver a baby. Afterward she sneaks the baby away before she is smothered. That baby is then given to a woman who has been unable to deliver a live baby and is raised as her own with the midwife as the girls nurse.
Nell de Lacy is brought up with learning by her father who introduces her to some of the great minds of England. When she is only 5 she and her family travel to London and stay with a friend of her fathers at the Tower of London. While there she sees the Princess Elizabeth walking in the garden at the Tower as she is a prisoner there. When her father takes her to see Dr Dee she takes a key from a table at his residence, after he tells her he wants to get rid of some things. (Dr Dee is considered to be the most intelligent scientist in England). She then manages to sneak that key to Princess Elizabeth as Nell believes the key is magic and will free the princess. Elizabeth tells her she can serve her in the future.
After Nell grows up and her father is blinded and is very ill, he writes a letter to Queen Elizabeth to remind her of her promise to take Nell into her service. After he dies, Nell sends that letter to the Queen in secret because her mother, Lady de Lacy, who served Queen Katherine Parr, Henry VIII’s last wife after the king dies, is very much against Nell going to court. She knew Elizabeth when she was living with the former queen. A 14 year old Elizabeth and Katherine’s husband Thomas Seymour are caught in a compromising position while Katherine is pregnant and Elizabeth is sent away. It is presumably then that Elizabeth gives birth in secret. Lady de Lacy also blames Elizabeth for breaking Katherine’s heart which could have led to Katherine dying in childbirth.
Nell’s mother had dismissed her nurse previously for not keeping a close enough eye on Nell and allowing Nell to be given a book on court life. Nell wants to go to court so she can continue learning from the greatest minds in the land, and especially the queen.
When Nell finally goes to court to serve Elizabeth, Elizabeth does respect Nell’s intelligence. One of Elizabeth’s courtiers, Gabriel Wyatt takes an interest in Nell that she at first does not share.
When Nell goes outside to see the stars with scientific instruments she was given by her father and Dr Dee, her old nurse finds her and tells her she is the daughter of Queen Elizabeth and informs her about her birth. She gives her a bit of fabric that she cut from the bed dressing of princess Elizabeth after she gave birth, as proof. Nell feels her nurse is mad but she starts to wonder.
Nell had previously mentioned the name of her nurse to Kat Ashley, Elizabeth’s nurse, as her nurse had also taken care of Katherine Parr when she went into labor. Elizabeth starts to wonder about Nell’s past.
Nell learns that Gabriel Wyatt knows her secret and agrees to marry him so he can protect her. What is important to know about Gabriel Wyatt is that he is also a friend of Dr Dee and is Nell’s intellectual equal
No one can save Nell’s former nurse who is put on the rack to learn what she knows of Nell’s past, which causes her death. After Nell becomes pregnant Nell and her husband are imprisoned in the Tower. Her husband pays the price for not revealing what he knows about Nell.. Eventually Elizabeth releases both of them after Nell keeps claiming she is the mother who raised her’s daughter. The evidence from her nurse has disappeared. When Elizabeth shows it to Nell, she claims it’s a scrap of cloth from a favorite doll’s dress that her nurse had made for her and she had kept it to remind her of his nurse. It becomes evident that neither Nell or her husband will make the claim that Nell is Elizabeth’s daughter, which would destabilize Elizabeth’s reign. They are both sent from court for the remainder of Elizabeth’s reign. They return to her parents home as it is a rich estate that was entailed to Nell and then her husband.
The author makes a case for the many ways Nell and Elizabeth are similar. She also paints a very good picture of Elizabeth’s faults, especially her capriciousness in the way she treats 5hose that serving her.
Many of the well known people from Elizabeth’s court are characters in this story. Although this is a what if story, the way it is written makes it feel like it could have happened. I have always enjoyed books that involve the Tudor Monarchs, especially Elizabeth I and Henry VIII and have read many books about this time period. I feel anyone interested in this ;period in history would enjoy this book.
Nell de Lacy is brought up with learning by her father who introduces her to some of the great minds of England. When she is only 5 she and her family travel to London and stay with a friend of her fathers at the Tower of London. While there she sees the Princess Elizabeth walking in the garden at the Tower as she is a prisoner there. When her father takes her to see Dr Dee she takes a key from a table at his residence, after he tells her he wants to get rid of some things. (Dr Dee is considered to be the most intelligent scientist in England). She then manages to sneak that key to Princess Elizabeth as Nell believes the key is magic and will free the princess. Elizabeth tells her she can serve her in the future.
After Nell grows up and her father is blinded and is very ill, he writes a letter to Queen Elizabeth to remind her of her promise to take Nell into her service. After he dies, Nell sends that letter to the Queen in secret because her mother, Lady de Lacy, who served Queen Katherine Parr, Henry VIII’s last wife after the king dies, is very much against Nell going to court. She knew Elizabeth when she was living with the former queen. A 14 year old Elizabeth and Katherine’s husband Thomas Seymour are caught in a compromising position while Katherine is pregnant and Elizabeth is sent away. It is presumably then that Elizabeth gives birth in secret. Lady de Lacy also blames Elizabeth for breaking Katherine’s heart which could have led to Katherine dying in childbirth.
Nell’s mother had dismissed her nurse previously for not keeping a close enough eye on Nell and allowing Nell to be given a book on court life. Nell wants to go to court so she can continue learning from the greatest minds in the land, and especially the queen.
When Nell finally goes to court to serve Elizabeth, Elizabeth does respect Nell’s intelligence. One of Elizabeth’s courtiers, Gabriel Wyatt takes an interest in Nell that she at first does not share.
When Nell goes outside to see the stars with scientific instruments she was given by her father and Dr Dee, her old nurse finds her and tells her she is the daughter of Queen Elizabeth and informs her about her birth. She gives her a bit of fabric that she cut from the bed dressing of princess Elizabeth after she gave birth, as proof. Nell feels her nurse is mad but she starts to wonder.
Nell had previously mentioned the name of her nurse to Kat Ashley, Elizabeth’s nurse, as her nurse had also taken care of Katherine Parr when she went into labor. Elizabeth starts to wonder about Nell’s past.
Nell learns that Gabriel Wyatt knows her secret and agrees to marry him so he can protect her. What is important to know about Gabriel Wyatt is that he is also a friend of Dr Dee and is Nell’s intellectual equal
No one can save Nell’s former nurse who is put on the rack to learn what she knows of Nell’s past, which causes her death. After Nell becomes pregnant Nell and her husband are imprisoned in the Tower. Her husband pays the price for not revealing what he knows about Nell.. Eventually Elizabeth releases both of them after Nell keeps claiming she is the mother who raised her’s daughter. The evidence from her nurse has disappeared. When Elizabeth shows it to Nell, she claims it’s a scrap of cloth from a favorite doll’s dress that her nurse had made for her and she had kept it to remind her of his nurse. It becomes evident that neither Nell or her husband will make the claim that Nell is Elizabeth’s daughter, which would destabilize Elizabeth’s reign. They are both sent from court for the remainder of Elizabeth’s reign. They return to her parents home as it is a rich estate that was entailed to Nell and then her husband.
The author makes a case for the many ways Nell and Elizabeth are similar. She also paints a very good picture of Elizabeth’s faults, especially her capriciousness in the way she treats 5hose that serving her.
Many of the well known people from Elizabeth’s court are characters in this story. Although this is a what if story, the way it is written makes it feel like it could have happened. I have always enjoyed books that involve the Tudor Monarchs, especially Elizabeth I and Henry VIII and have read many books about this time period. I feel anyone interested in this ;period in history would enjoy this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2020
I started this book expecting it to be complete fluff, and while, for the most part, it was, it was still a good read. Elinore de Lacy is a country born gentlewoman in the mid 16th century who loves all things science. She's very close to her father, who teaches her to become the scholar he knows she's born to be. However, after a chance encounter with the captive Princess Elizabeth Tudor at the Tower of London in 1554, young Nell wishes with all her heart to go to court when she's old enough and serve her captive princess once she becomes Queen. Her mother is none too pleased about this since there are many secrets regarding Nell's birth that she is unaware of. Secrets that, if the wrong people find out, could mean her death.
I gotta say, I was a little curious as to why Nell's mother didn't just tell her the truth, why she had to be so vague about everything. Had Nell known the story, she wouldn't have wanted to go to court, and the whole mess that followed would have been avoided...though I suppose that wouldn't have made much of a book. I liked the fictional characters of Nell and Gabriel Wyatt, a courtier whose attentions to Nell are irritating yet exciting. My least favorite character was Elizabeth (this was through no fault of the author, though). I've only read a few books centered on Queen Elizabeth I, but every time I read one, it reminds me why I avoid them. I love her father, King Henry VIII, and have read plenty of books about him and his many wives. He's arrogant, obnoxious, and tyrannical, but he's Henry...you expect it from him. Elizabeth, however, is just a b**ch, and not the good kind. In every book I've read about her, she's extremely childish in her need to be complimented ALL THE TIME. Having to constantly be assured of her beauty (which is questionable) and praised for her intellect. She can't stand for anyone to find love and be happy...and God forbid if they have children, even married couples! She CHOSE to be the 'Virgin' Queen and never marry or have children, but why she expects everyone around her to do the same is beyond me. She may have been one of England's greatest Queens, but she was NOT a likable person.
That aside, I absolutely recommend this book if you're at all interested. Ms. Chase has done a fine job with her first foray into Historical Fiction. Her research was extensive and accurate, and her portrayal of all the characters was very true to history. I like that she chose to center her story on two fictional characters in an actual court. It gave her so much room to play with the story, and she keeps the flow of the book going at a great pace. I was never bored at any point while reading this. I definitely look forward to whatever it is Ms. Chase comes out with next, and I hope she keeps if in this genre...she does such a great job with it.
I gotta say, I was a little curious as to why Nell's mother didn't just tell her the truth, why she had to be so vague about everything. Had Nell known the story, she wouldn't have wanted to go to court, and the whole mess that followed would have been avoided...though I suppose that wouldn't have made much of a book. I liked the fictional characters of Nell and Gabriel Wyatt, a courtier whose attentions to Nell are irritating yet exciting. My least favorite character was Elizabeth (this was through no fault of the author, though). I've only read a few books centered on Queen Elizabeth I, but every time I read one, it reminds me why I avoid them. I love her father, King Henry VIII, and have read plenty of books about him and his many wives. He's arrogant, obnoxious, and tyrannical, but he's Henry...you expect it from him. Elizabeth, however, is just a b**ch, and not the good kind. In every book I've read about her, she's extremely childish in her need to be complimented ALL THE TIME. Having to constantly be assured of her beauty (which is questionable) and praised for her intellect. She can't stand for anyone to find love and be happy...and God forbid if they have children, even married couples! She CHOSE to be the 'Virgin' Queen and never marry or have children, but why she expects everyone around her to do the same is beyond me. She may have been one of England's greatest Queens, but she was NOT a likable person.
That aside, I absolutely recommend this book if you're at all interested. Ms. Chase has done a fine job with her first foray into Historical Fiction. Her research was extensive and accurate, and her portrayal of all the characters was very true to history. I like that she chose to center her story on two fictional characters in an actual court. It gave her so much room to play with the story, and she keeps the flow of the book going at a great pace. I was never bored at any point while reading this. I definitely look forward to whatever it is Ms. Chase comes out with next, and I hope she keeps if in this genre...she does such a great job with it.
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