What do you think?
Rate this book
The Lady in the Tower
Spring 1540 I am afraid. You are in grave danger. Mother, will you run away with me if I can free you? The servants call it the Lady the isolated part of the castle where Eleanor's mother is imprisoned after a terrible accusation. For four years Eleanor's only comfort has been their secret notes to one another. A chance discovery reveals a plot to murder her mother. Now Eleanor must free her before it is too late. But with danger and betrayal at every turn, she can trust no one. Especially not her father. Eleanor must use all her cunning to survive. For she soon realises that it is not just her mother she needs to save . . . but also herself.
317 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2009
13 people are currently reading
2258 people want to read
About the author
Marie-Louise Jensen
14 books122 followersBorn Marie-Louise Chalcraft in Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire on September 22nd 1964.
I attended a string of state schools, including Chiltern Edge in Oxfordshire. Once my family moved down to Bath in 1979, I attended Fitzmaurice and St Laurence schools in Bradford on Avon. Throughout my primary school years I was constantly told off for reading secretly and writing long stories instead of completing maths sheets. I’m not sure any of my teachers ever read my stories, but I had a lot of books taken away. When I was eleven, one teacher confiscated Lord of the Rings in the middle of the Battle of Helm’s Deep, and I nearly suffered severe psychological damage waiting a week to find out if Aragorn survived.
My A-levels were in German, French and English and I went on to study German and Danish with literature at the University of East Anglia.
I did more studying and various translating and teaching jobs, including teaching at a university in Germany for four years. Then I returned to Britain to be a full time mother and home educator. These were the years in which I overcame my education and regained my creativity. I read lots and started writing again.
In 2004-5, I took the MA in Writing for Young People at the Bath Spa University. I passed with distinction and was lucky enough to be taken on by an agent, Rosemary Canter at United Agents and a publisher (Oxford University Press) soon after.
I attended a string of state schools, including Chiltern Edge in Oxfordshire. Once my family moved down to Bath in 1979, I attended Fitzmaurice and St Laurence schools in Bradford on Avon. Throughout my primary school years I was constantly told off for reading secretly and writing long stories instead of completing maths sheets. I’m not sure any of my teachers ever read my stories, but I had a lot of books taken away. When I was eleven, one teacher confiscated Lord of the Rings in the middle of the Battle of Helm’s Deep, and I nearly suffered severe psychological damage waiting a week to find out if Aragorn survived.
My A-levels were in German, French and English and I went on to study German and Danish with literature at the University of East Anglia.
I did more studying and various translating and teaching jobs, including teaching at a university in Germany for four years. Then I returned to Britain to be a full time mother and home educator. These were the years in which I overcame my education and regained my creativity. I read lots and started writing again.
In 2004-5, I took the MA in Writing for Young People at the Bath Spa University. I passed with distinction and was lucky enough to be taken on by an agent, Rosemary Canter at United Agents and a publisher (Oxford University Press) soon after.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
October 2, 2016
I had high hopes for this book, not because I knew the author (I didn't), but because the reviews were so good and it totally sounded like my type of book; and when I started reading, the story reminded me a little bit of one of my favorite books ever, Crown Duel by Sherwood Smith, but now I have to take that back because it's actually insulting.
The heroine, Eleanor, was cute at first, but after a while she just started to annoy me---the thing is, she doesn't think, and I can't deal with heroines who don't think. I understand that she has trust issues, and lots of reasons to do so, but honestly, she's so tiresome with all the silly assumptions she makes about people, especially about her betrothed, Stanton. She accuses him of all the vile things she can think of when he's only trying to be funny and charming and, really, woo her, but Eleanor only sees him as another enemy she must fight at all costs even if he never actually did anything to make her hate him so much. I usually enjoy this type of love-hate relationships, but somehow this one didn't do it for me.
I think it's mostly because Eleanor acts like a 5 year-old-who-didn't-get-her-way all the time. And the fact that Stanton, a rich and handsome viscount, keeps going after her like a dog who doesn't mind being kicked over and over, makes the whole thing even more ridiculous.
The rest of the story regarding Eleanor's mother, the actual lady in the tower, was quite sad and shocking, and the happy ending for all felt forced.
+ Those scenes with the king, ugh. Disgusting.
The heroine, Eleanor, was cute at first, but after a while she just started to annoy me---the thing is, she doesn't think, and I can't deal with heroines who don't think. I understand that she has trust issues, and lots of reasons to do so, but honestly, she's so tiresome with all the silly assumptions she makes about people, especially about her betrothed, Stanton. She accuses him of all the vile things she can think of when he's only trying to be funny and charming and, really, woo her, but Eleanor only sees him as another enemy she must fight at all costs even if he never actually did anything to make her hate him so much. I usually enjoy this type of love-hate relationships, but somehow this one didn't do it for me.
I think it's mostly because Eleanor acts like a 5 year-old-who-didn't-get-her-way all the time. And the fact that Stanton, a rich and handsome viscount, keeps going after her like a dog who doesn't mind being kicked over and over, makes the whole thing even more ridiculous.
The rest of the story regarding Eleanor's mother, the actual lady in the tower, was quite sad and shocking, and the happy ending for all felt forced.
+ Those scenes with the king, ugh. Disgusting.
January 25, 2009
I can't decide whether this is better than Between Two Seas or not... It follows the same sort of story line but good none the less. The main character realises she has fallen in love, and a misunderstanding leads to them being separated. But I liked the happily ever after ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2009
It is really good, I started it at 4 in the afternoon, and finished it 4 in the morning of the next day! Oops! It was really good, not many books do that to me, but it was one of the few.
May 18, 2012
Click here to see full review: http://rebecca-books.blogspot.co.uk/2...
If you are looking for a historical fiction book with lots of gore and fighting, I would click away right now, but WAIT, click here instead because this would be much better suited for your tastes.
This book is historical fiction with a lovely bit of romance thrown in for good measure.
When I first picked up this book, I had my doubts. I love historical fiction but mostly when they have some gentlemanly romance. From reading the blurb on the book, there is no hint of this romance and I think that's what raised my sceptical. I mean, the whole book being about Eleanor running away with her mother, it didn't sound that inviting for me.
However, I was wrong. The book is centred around a couple of months in fifteen-year-old Eleanor's life. After her father arrives back to Fairleigh Castle with the king and her entourage, Eleanor frequently meets this gentleman who goes against the 'codes' for gentlemen and when Eleanor is disguised as a servant, he tries to kiss her. This man, she soon finds out, is her soon-to-be husband, Lord Stanton. And she hates him immensely. And he is not too fond of her either. Great start!
The romance is pretty gradual, more gradual for Eleanor as around the halfway mark, there is a sense that Stanton does not hate Eleanor as he IS kinder. Although, it is slightly infuriating, this suits Eleanor's character and I liked this 'will they? won't they?' feel.
The characters themselves are interesting. The only one I had a real problem with on both readings was Eleanor's mother, Lady Hungerford. I found her very petty and I understood Eleanor's annoyance with her.
Eleanor herself was a delight to have as a narrator especially with her boldness to defy some of the Tudor conventions for women such as jousting and riding astride (with one leg on either side of horse). I like this rebellous side to her as well caring side we see latterly. She was a perfect heroine for me.
Although you are persuaded to hate Stanton, I found myself enjoying his jokes (some of which I had to giggle at) and his encounters with Eleanor do largely make the book for me. The similarities from Eleanor's father to the conventional views of Henry VIII were what caught me for his character - he is a character that you love to hate - or just hate really.
Another aspect of my enjoyment for this book was the time period it is set in. As some may know, I am studying this time period for my exams so reading this book put this all into perspective for me. It is 1540 - the year where Cromwell was given a Lordship - but executed by the end of the year for treason and heresy. Cromwell was in charge of turning England from Catholic to Protestant as he was evangelical himself. However, after the marriage to Jane Seymour, around this time, Henry wanted a more Catholic approach to the Church, although he was still the Head. However, Cromwell didn't want this and tried to defy the Act of the Six Articles which enforced this approach Henry wanted. Officially, Cromwell was charged for treason and heresy as in Calais (which was part of English rule then) was completely Protestant and this was all down to Cromwell not enforcing the Act of Six Articles.
However, it's mostly thought that Cromwell was charged as he wreaked the marriage of Henry to Anne of Cleves. It's funny to think that someone like Eleanor might actually have really caused this and the treason charge was a part of plotting against him.
This period of history is interesting and it is quite nice to see a historical novel based around this time - it helped put my history course into perspective with what happened that year. It is good to see not another book set in the Elizabethan times.
I really enjoyed this book despite my reservations and I could read this again and again. This is one for historical fiction fans but I would recommend this to most people, especially those perhaps studying this period in time. Or just like Henry VIII.
This was also based on A REAL STORY and a REAL PLACE, which you can visit now.
I give it 4.5 out of 5
If you are looking for a historical fiction book with lots of gore and fighting, I would click away right now, but WAIT, click here instead because this would be much better suited for your tastes.
This book is historical fiction with a lovely bit of romance thrown in for good measure.
When I first picked up this book, I had my doubts. I love historical fiction but mostly when they have some gentlemanly romance. From reading the blurb on the book, there is no hint of this romance and I think that's what raised my sceptical. I mean, the whole book being about Eleanor running away with her mother, it didn't sound that inviting for me.
However, I was wrong. The book is centred around a couple of months in fifteen-year-old Eleanor's life. After her father arrives back to Fairleigh Castle with the king and her entourage, Eleanor frequently meets this gentleman who goes against the 'codes' for gentlemen and when Eleanor is disguised as a servant, he tries to kiss her. This man, she soon finds out, is her soon-to-be husband, Lord Stanton. And she hates him immensely. And he is not too fond of her either. Great start!
The romance is pretty gradual, more gradual for Eleanor as around the halfway mark, there is a sense that Stanton does not hate Eleanor as he IS kinder. Although, it is slightly infuriating, this suits Eleanor's character and I liked this 'will they? won't they?' feel.
The characters themselves are interesting. The only one I had a real problem with on both readings was Eleanor's mother, Lady Hungerford. I found her very petty and I understood Eleanor's annoyance with her.
Eleanor herself was a delight to have as a narrator especially with her boldness to defy some of the Tudor conventions for women such as jousting and riding astride (with one leg on either side of horse). I like this rebellous side to her as well caring side we see latterly. She was a perfect heroine for me.
Although you are persuaded to hate Stanton, I found myself enjoying his jokes (some of which I had to giggle at) and his encounters with Eleanor do largely make the book for me. The similarities from Eleanor's father to the conventional views of Henry VIII were what caught me for his character - he is a character that you love to hate - or just hate really.
Another aspect of my enjoyment for this book was the time period it is set in. As some may know, I am studying this time period for my exams so reading this book put this all into perspective for me. It is 1540 - the year where Cromwell was given a Lordship - but executed by the end of the year for treason and heresy. Cromwell was in charge of turning England from Catholic to Protestant as he was evangelical himself. However, after the marriage to Jane Seymour, around this time, Henry wanted a more Catholic approach to the Church, although he was still the Head. However, Cromwell didn't want this and tried to defy the Act of the Six Articles which enforced this approach Henry wanted. Officially, Cromwell was charged for treason and heresy as in Calais (which was part of English rule then) was completely Protestant and this was all down to Cromwell not enforcing the Act of Six Articles.
However, it's mostly thought that Cromwell was charged as he wreaked the marriage of Henry to Anne of Cleves. It's funny to think that someone like Eleanor might actually have really caused this and the treason charge was a part of plotting against him.
This period of history is interesting and it is quite nice to see a historical novel based around this time - it helped put my history course into perspective with what happened that year. It is good to see not another book set in the Elizabethan times.
I really enjoyed this book despite my reservations and I could read this again and again. This is one for historical fiction fans but I would recommend this to most people, especially those perhaps studying this period in time. Or just like Henry VIII.
This was also based on A REAL STORY and a REAL PLACE, which you can visit now.
I give it 4.5 out of 5
May 28, 2011
This really did feel like two distinct books with two different goals in mind. The beginning felt like a story of a young girl who rebels against the gender norms of the time to try to do what's right for her family. Granted, it was a bit awkwardly written and felt more like a female version of the movie A Knight's Tale, but I respected that if it was following a format, at least it was a pro-girl format.
Later on, though,the book takes some turns that are decidedly out of the box it seems to be sticking to in the beginning. The story line gets a bit more interesting, but the resolve of the main character dissolves into a wimpier Pride and Prejudice type feeling. I wanted to turn the page, but found myself sneering a little bit at the whole "a man or men are taking care of me, and I tried to resist, but he/they really does/do know what's best for me" turn of events.
I have a lot of admittedly inexpert questions about the historical accuracy of this book. I thought women didn't wear white when they got married during this time period? I also thought that taking a bath was thought to be a dangerous thing to do for your health. I didn't care enough to do my own research, so I admit I could be wrong.
Overall, a bit of fluff that I will forget fairly quickly, but not all bad.
Later on, though,the book takes some turns that are decidedly out of the box it seems to be sticking to in the beginning. The story line gets a bit more interesting, but the resolve of the main character dissolves into a wimpier Pride and Prejudice type feeling. I wanted to turn the page, but found myself sneering a little bit at the whole "a man or men are taking care of me, and I tried to resist, but he/they really does/do know what's best for me" turn of events.
I have a lot of admittedly inexpert questions about the historical accuracy of this book. I thought women didn't wear white when they got married during this time period? I also thought that taking a bath was thought to be a dangerous thing to do for your health. I didn't care enough to do my own research, so I admit I could be wrong.
Overall, a bit of fluff that I will forget fairly quickly, but not all bad.
January 21, 2010
Hmm not bad. This is the story of Lady Elizabeth Hungerford and her imprisonment in the castle at Farleigh. Her daughter, Eleanor, is determined to get her out by any way or means.
I didn't like the use of language in this, but since it is aimed at young readers I really cannot complain. This is a good introduction to historical fiction for people who haven't read much of it before.
Marie-Louise Jensen's writing style wants more description, and her characters need more depth.
I didn't like the use of language in this, but since it is aimed at young readers I really cannot complain. This is a good introduction to historical fiction for people who haven't read much of it before.
Marie-Louise Jensen's writing style wants more description, and her characters need more depth.
December 22, 2009
This book WAS from the 1600s, so i thought i would have some difficulties on reading it, without getting confused...
I'm SO happy to say that this was an interesting book! It was a little tough at some parts but all in all, IT WAS AMAZING!!!!!
I MIGHT even have to read another of her books...
...time will tell :D
I'm SO happy to say that this was an interesting book! It was a little tough at some parts but all in all, IT WAS AMAZING!!!!!
I MIGHT even have to read another of her books...
...time will tell :D
January 12, 2011
I love this book and the way in which the time (1540) is described. The heroine is inspirational, rebelling and confused... and the love interest is dashing. It is a thrilling romance that grabs attention and shocks all! I love it!!!
April 28, 2013
it's unlike any other regency stories i have ever read..
captivating plot.intriguing twists.praiseworthy heroine.an enchanting read.
i did not regret ever buying this book online.
indeed,the book was like a breath of fresh air.
captivating plot.intriguing twists.praiseworthy heroine.an enchanting read.
i did not regret ever buying this book online.
indeed,the book was like a breath of fresh air.
March 6, 2017
This almost became a DNF, and then was going to be a two-star review, but by the end, I was much more deeply impressed with the story and how it was told.
Eleanor started with a loving and happy home which, literally on a moment's notice, changed into a nightmare. Under false accusations of witchcraft and adultery, Eleanor's mother Elizabeth is banished to a tower and Eleanor becomes a mote in her father's eye. I was, at first, impatient with Eleanor and her behavior, and then I remembered. This is a child. Maybe not by current standards, and certainly she was old enough to be betrothed and wed in her own time, but that didn't make her any more mature than I now at almost fifty know my fifteen-year-old self to be. She trusts very few around her, and with good reason, and when she is told that her new bridegroom is in on a heinous plot, she believes that because all she's known for the last four years has been intrigue and ugliness.
Unlike other readers, I was a bit annoyed with the romantic part of the plot, other than how it intersected with the much more compelling danger surrounding Eleanor and her mother. I gave up romance fiction many years ago because of the "she hates him, he annoys her, he's a rogue, etc." that turns up in every. single. story. You know what's going to happen even as they are introduced, and the only thing that's different from book to book is how they will be dressed. Yawn.
However, and for me it was a read-saving however, include a kick-ass heroine who is learning to joust, who is trying to save her mother, who bristles and rebels under the code of a father choosing his daughter's lifemate? That is something I can get on board with quite easily. More of that, please. I'm delighted to say that there was plenty of it here, and I loved it. It quite literally changed the book from being toe-curling to being enjoyable for me.
The Lady in the Tower was presented to me as a "children's book." I would consider it to be more YA in nature, with a few complex situations and a bit of swearing (though nothing, I promise you, that your child hasn't heard in their own school hallways, and, I'm willing to bet, in their own home from time to time). If your kid is old enough to have the patience for novel-length reads and they enjoy historical fiction, they'd might enjoy this. If you're in England, you can even take them to the castle (now a ruin) where it all happened.
Eleanor started with a loving and happy home which, literally on a moment's notice, changed into a nightmare. Under false accusations of witchcraft and adultery, Eleanor's mother Elizabeth is banished to a tower and Eleanor becomes a mote in her father's eye. I was, at first, impatient with Eleanor and her behavior, and then I remembered. This is a child. Maybe not by current standards, and certainly she was old enough to be betrothed and wed in her own time, but that didn't make her any more mature than I now at almost fifty know my fifteen-year-old self to be. She trusts very few around her, and with good reason, and when she is told that her new bridegroom is in on a heinous plot, she believes that because all she's known for the last four years has been intrigue and ugliness.
Unlike other readers, I was a bit annoyed with the romantic part of the plot, other than how it intersected with the much more compelling danger surrounding Eleanor and her mother. I gave up romance fiction many years ago because of the "she hates him, he annoys her, he's a rogue, etc." that turns up in every. single. story. You know what's going to happen even as they are introduced, and the only thing that's different from book to book is how they will be dressed. Yawn.
However, and for me it was a read-saving however, include a kick-ass heroine who is learning to joust, who is trying to save her mother, who bristles and rebels under the code of a father choosing his daughter's lifemate? That is something I can get on board with quite easily. More of that, please. I'm delighted to say that there was plenty of it here, and I loved it. It quite literally changed the book from being toe-curling to being enjoyable for me.
The Lady in the Tower was presented to me as a "children's book." I would consider it to be more YA in nature, with a few complex situations and a bit of swearing (though nothing, I promise you, that your child hasn't heard in their own school hallways, and, I'm willing to bet, in their own home from time to time). If your kid is old enough to have the patience for novel-length reads and they enjoy historical fiction, they'd might enjoy this. If you're in England, you can even take them to the castle (now a ruin) where it all happened.
April 9, 2024
Amazing!! There is a hint of romance, but it doesn’t get that mushy till the end. There is and execution, so if you sensitive on that subject, it is good to be aware of. It is based on a real event in history, with a few improvisations, which makes it more exciting. A thrilling tale of a Tudor girl, trying to get justice!
Marie Louise Jensen has a real talent!!
Marie Louise Jensen has a real talent!!
May 15, 2023
Good book once I got into it.
October 22, 2010
Eleanor had a happy childhood in 16th century England, during the reign of King Henry VIII. Her loving and indulgent parents allowed her to ride horses and learn to joust with her cousin and younger brother, and did not scold her too much for her failure to learn ladylike tasks such as sewing. That all changed when Eleanor was eleven. Her father, suddenly a different man than the one she had known all her life, falsely accused her mother of terrible crimes and had her locked in a tower in their home.
The story picks up four years later. In the aftermath of these events, Eleanor has become estranged from her father, and from her younger brother who is close to their father and cannot remember the time before their mother was imprisoned. She secretly conspires with the servants and villagers to deliver food and messages to her mother, and to save her from her father’s plots to have her killed. Her father had her betrothed to a much older man but he died before the wedding day, to Eleanor’s relief. However, now that she is fifteen, he has chosen another man to be her husband. His choice, Lord Stanton, is young and handsome, but also insufferable, and even worse she believes he is on her father’s side. Eleanor also knows that if she marries and leaves her home, her mother will have no one left to protect her from her father, and so is determined to find a way to escape with her mother before the wedding.
The Lady in the Tower is a wonderful young adult historical novel set in the Tudor era, one of my favorite time periods. Eleanor is a lively and likeable character, and the book has a perfect blend of history, intrigue, and romance. I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy young adult historical fiction and I look forward to reading more from Marie-Louise Jensen, who is a promising new writer in this genre.
The story picks up four years later. In the aftermath of these events, Eleanor has become estranged from her father, and from her younger brother who is close to their father and cannot remember the time before their mother was imprisoned. She secretly conspires with the servants and villagers to deliver food and messages to her mother, and to save her from her father’s plots to have her killed. Her father had her betrothed to a much older man but he died before the wedding day, to Eleanor’s relief. However, now that she is fifteen, he has chosen another man to be her husband. His choice, Lord Stanton, is young and handsome, but also insufferable, and even worse she believes he is on her father’s side. Eleanor also knows that if she marries and leaves her home, her mother will have no one left to protect her from her father, and so is determined to find a way to escape with her mother before the wedding.
The Lady in the Tower is a wonderful young adult historical novel set in the Tudor era, one of my favorite time periods. Eleanor is a lively and likeable character, and the book has a perfect blend of history, intrigue, and romance. I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy young adult historical fiction and I look forward to reading more from Marie-Louise Jensen, who is a promising new writer in this genre.
December 4, 2013
i enjoyed this more than i thought i would. at least enough to find myself caught up in the plot.
but lord, is it badly written. the premise is weak and never explained. a woman's loving husband suddenly throws her in a tower, claiming she's a witch. he then keeps her there for many years, poisoning her and having his Chaplain rape her.
that's it. don't look for a reason, because there won't be one. there wasn't even a charge laid on WHY he thought her a witch. there was no motivation and it was a gaping, and pathetic, plot hole i kept falling back into.
the 'OH I HATE HIM but maybe i.. LOVE HIM' pride and prejudice garbage was lofty itself. she had no reason to violently hate Stanton, and i almost wanted to throw my kindle over it. this was not the case of a bunch of misunderstandings, this was terrible writing. there's a point where Stanton buys the horse her father is cruelly auctioning off to hurt his daughter. This makes her husband to be a vile and cruel creature taking away her beloved horse.
you're being forced to marry him. IF HE OWNS THE HORSE, AND YOU MARRY HIM, THE HORSE WILL BE AT YOUR NEW HOUSE, MORON.
that is IMPOSSIBLE to misconstrue as a negative, and yet this retarded character does constantly. goddammit this book was terrible.
pathetic main character, weak premise both on the romantic and overall plot that suddenly wound down without any consequence.
but i kinda enjoyed ittttt. and i hate myself for ittttt. i liked stanton. i liked when he outsmarted her. i liked that Eleanor would admit to her faults. the plot was kind of fun, and so much was occurring i wanted to keep up with it.
but lord, is it badly written. the premise is weak and never explained. a woman's loving husband suddenly throws her in a tower, claiming she's a witch. he then keeps her there for many years, poisoning her and having his Chaplain rape her.
that's it. don't look for a reason, because there won't be one. there wasn't even a charge laid on WHY he thought her a witch. there was no motivation and it was a gaping, and pathetic, plot hole i kept falling back into.
the 'OH I HATE HIM but maybe i.. LOVE HIM' pride and prejudice garbage was lofty itself. she had no reason to violently hate Stanton, and i almost wanted to throw my kindle over it. this was not the case of a bunch of misunderstandings, this was terrible writing. there's a point where Stanton buys the horse her father is cruelly auctioning off to hurt his daughter. This makes her husband to be a vile and cruel creature taking away her beloved horse.
you're being forced to marry him. IF HE OWNS THE HORSE, AND YOU MARRY HIM, THE HORSE WILL BE AT YOUR NEW HOUSE, MORON.
that is IMPOSSIBLE to misconstrue as a negative, and yet this retarded character does constantly. goddammit this book was terrible.
pathetic main character, weak premise both on the romantic and overall plot that suddenly wound down without any consequence.
but i kinda enjoyed ittttt. and i hate myself for ittttt. i liked stanton. i liked when he outsmarted her. i liked that Eleanor would admit to her faults. the plot was kind of fun, and so much was occurring i wanted to keep up with it.
September 28, 2014
I decided to try this author after she was listed in the people who liked Eve Edwards also liked these authors reccommendations...
First of all i have big problems with h's with 21st century ideals (i.e. ones that just wouldn't understand why they couldn't do something based on the fact that they were a girl, so went ahead and did it anyways because they should have rights. vs the ones who are feminists but understand that their society just won't accept them if they act out on their opinions publicly, because they literally have no rights and try to change their world subtley instead) being cast into my historical fiction...
As a teenager i probably wouldn't have had a problem with a girl who didn't understand why she couldn't do what the boys were doing in my historicals. As an adult (and yes i do use that term loosely), i just can't stomach it. I just couldn't stand the h. Learning how to joust with her brother was one thing. Taking her cousins place in the jousting tournament and making other TSTL moves because she was better at it than the boys anyways was something that i just couldn't swallow. Lets not even go to how she behaved towards the H.
I won't be reading this author again.
First of all i have big problems with h's with 21st century ideals (i.e. ones that just wouldn't understand why they couldn't do something based on the fact that they were a girl, so went ahead and did it anyways because they should have rights. vs the ones who are feminists but understand that their society just won't accept them if they act out on their opinions publicly, because they literally have no rights and try to change their world subtley instead) being cast into my historical fiction...
As a teenager i probably wouldn't have had a problem with a girl who didn't understand why she couldn't do what the boys were doing in my historicals. As an adult (and yes i do use that term loosely), i just can't stomach it. I just couldn't stand the h. Learning how to joust with her brother was one thing. Taking her cousins place in the jousting tournament and making other TSTL moves because she was better at it than the boys anyways was something that i just couldn't swallow. Lets not even go to how she behaved towards the H.
I won't be reading this author again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2025
I picked this up at a second hand bookshop for nostalgia's sake. I have to assign my love of historical fiction to Marie-Louise Jensen and Mary Hooper. This book was exactly as I remembered it. Too young for me now, too dramatic to be believable, the romance was questionable (given she's 15 and he's 23) but I have to give it 4 stars because when I was the target age for this book I loved it with my whole heart. So this read was for Past Nat.
March 1, 2009
Great historical fiction set in the time of good ol' Henry VIII.
April 14, 2020
I genuinely loved it.
February 12, 2018
Eleanor's mother has been locked in a tower for 4 years. Eleanor has been betrothed to someone she hates. What is a girl to do? Plan an escape of course!
Fun book about a courageous young lady who thinks for herself and tries to save her mother from the tower (she had been accused of witchcraft). Set during the time of King Henry the Eighth. I'm sure it is not historically accurate but I still enjoyed it.
#50/50BookQuest categories=A book set in the past, a book recommended by a friend, and a book written in first person.
Fun book about a courageous young lady who thinks for herself and tries to save her mother from the tower (she had been accused of witchcraft). Set during the time of King Henry the Eighth. I'm sure it is not historically accurate but I still enjoyed it.
#50/50BookQuest categories=A book set in the past, a book recommended by a friend, and a book written in first person.
April 29, 2021
only read this because the author came to my school so i felt like i had to
i do re-read this embarrassingly often because who doesn’t love a good historical enemies-to-lovers (even if its not the best written)
i do re-read this embarrassingly often because who doesn’t love a good historical enemies-to-lovers (even if its not the best written)
January 22, 2018
Really gripping story, particularly enjoyed the historical vein.
February 8, 2018
it is a good biookj
September 30, 2018
A very easy sweet historical fiction to read .
March 2, 2012
The story begins with a prologue. We are in 1540 and Lady Elizabeth is in the tower. Then we flashback to 1536 and the reader is able to see the closeness Eleanor has with her mother and the fun the Hungerford’s had as a family. Lord Walter returns early from a trip to London without his usual exuberance and Lady Elizabeth is taken to the tower by guards for being under suspicion of witchcraft and infidelity. Chapter Two finds us in the present (Spring 1540) and the story continues to show us Eleanor’s life as it was in Tudor times – the constraints on females, her attempts to rescue her mother from the tower, and also castle life.
This period in history fascinates me. The idealism is so romantic! Knights, The Code of Chivalry, the pageantry of jousting/tournaments and the castles. Of course there is the other side – peasant life and lack of freedom … although I think the fashion romantic too, I wouldn’t want the constraints of dressing fashionably! As we journey with Eleanor, Tudor life comes colourfully alive. The reader doesn’t get to just experience Farleigh Castle but also London.
Eleanor is such a feisty heroine. She was only eleven when her mother was imprisoned and with her father away in London for most of the time, had the run of the castle. Dressing in servants clothes she is able to ride astride her horse and sneak around. She is taught to joust alongside her younger brother and cousin … a lot of freedom! That is until Lord Walter returns from London with his prospective wife (yes, his third wife is still alive in the tower) and news of an arranged marriage for Eleanor. Her exchanges with her betrothed, Philip Ashington (Viscount Stanton), I found quite amusing and I think show her character really well. Eleanor is always on her guard and this leads her to misunderstanding motives.
There is an interesting cast of characters at Farleigh Castle for the tournament. Alongside Lord Walter is his close friend Oliver Cromwell (both advisers to Henry VIII who is also there). Lots of intrigue and treason!
I have a couple of favourite scenes – one at the lists for the finals in the jousting and also a romantic scene in the park in London (although the beheadings were quite interesting too …)
I love it that The Lady in the Tower is based on historical fact. The author was inspired by the tale itself and the mystery surrounding Lady Elizabeth’s escape from Farleigh Castle. She has woven the tale into something believable and very enjoyable.
Although The Lady in the Tower is aimed at a Young Adult audience, if you have a love a history and Tudor times, then this fictional book will interest you.
This period in history fascinates me. The idealism is so romantic! Knights, The Code of Chivalry, the pageantry of jousting/tournaments and the castles. Of course there is the other side – peasant life and lack of freedom … although I think the fashion romantic too, I wouldn’t want the constraints of dressing fashionably! As we journey with Eleanor, Tudor life comes colourfully alive. The reader doesn’t get to just experience Farleigh Castle but also London.
Eleanor is such a feisty heroine. She was only eleven when her mother was imprisoned and with her father away in London for most of the time, had the run of the castle. Dressing in servants clothes she is able to ride astride her horse and sneak around. She is taught to joust alongside her younger brother and cousin … a lot of freedom! That is until Lord Walter returns from London with his prospective wife (yes, his third wife is still alive in the tower) and news of an arranged marriage for Eleanor. Her exchanges with her betrothed, Philip Ashington (Viscount Stanton), I found quite amusing and I think show her character really well. Eleanor is always on her guard and this leads her to misunderstanding motives.
There is an interesting cast of characters at Farleigh Castle for the tournament. Alongside Lord Walter is his close friend Oliver Cromwell (both advisers to Henry VIII who is also there). Lots of intrigue and treason!
I have a couple of favourite scenes – one at the lists for the finals in the jousting and also a romantic scene in the park in London (although the beheadings were quite interesting too …)
I love it that The Lady in the Tower is based on historical fact. The author was inspired by the tale itself and the mystery surrounding Lady Elizabeth’s escape from Farleigh Castle. She has woven the tale into something believable and very enjoyable.
Although The Lady in the Tower is aimed at a Young Adult audience, if you have a love a history and Tudor times, then this fictional book will interest you.
April 28, 2015
I really loved this. Even more than The Girl in the Mask. Review to come.
SO, I loved The Lady in the Tower more than I liked The Girl in the Mask. It's most likely because the pacing was more even in this one and the development of the romance something hot and fiery. Even though I liked the romance in The Girl In The Mask, I liked the romance between Sophia and Mr Charlton, Eleanor and Stanton had somewhat more tension. I was a little bit more convinced by Eleanor's hesitation and dislike of Stanton.
What's more, I guess reading Marie-Louise Jensen has had me reminiscing lately on the attractiveness of historical fiction to draw me into history. I really love well written historicals, and I dare say Jensen is one of those!
This historical is full of romance - hot and sparkly as well as daring, mystery - with lots of intrigue on top, and historical figures - always a plus! The heroine is a strong character and even when she's frightened, she's also very strong. I like her character, I like her more than Sophia in The Girl In The Mask, because she's very realistic. I can emphasise with her thoughts and feelings. Plus,she's headstrong. There's not a moment where I have to think, oh my god isn't the answer already very obvious?
This is also set in the time of Henry the Eighth. I can't remember when I read a historical from a perspective that was at a side other than Henry the Eighth. And this was. Reading it from this perspective was very interesting because Henry the Eighth becomes a minor yet relatively important character.
Overall, totally a read worth pursuing!
SO, I loved The Lady in the Tower more than I liked The Girl in the Mask. It's most likely because the pacing was more even in this one and the development of the romance something hot and fiery. Even though I liked the romance in The Girl In The Mask, I liked the romance between Sophia and Mr Charlton, Eleanor and Stanton had somewhat more tension. I was a little bit more convinced by Eleanor's hesitation and dislike of Stanton.
What's more, I guess reading Marie-Louise Jensen has had me reminiscing lately on the attractiveness of historical fiction to draw me into history. I really love well written historicals, and I dare say Jensen is one of those!
This historical is full of romance - hot and sparkly as well as daring, mystery - with lots of intrigue on top, and historical figures - always a plus! The heroine is a strong character and even when she's frightened, she's also very strong. I like her character, I like her more than Sophia in The Girl In The Mask, because she's very realistic. I can emphasise with her thoughts and feelings. Plus,she's headstrong. There's not a moment where I have to think, oh my god isn't the answer already very obvious?
This is also set in the time of Henry the Eighth. I can't remember when I read a historical from a perspective that was at a side other than Henry the Eighth. And this was. Reading it from this perspective was very interesting because Henry the Eighth becomes a minor yet relatively important character.
Overall, totally a read worth pursuing!
June 24, 2013
Ohmysweetgoodness. It has been such a long time since I've read a good book, I kinda sorta unbelievably give this book a five star rating. Whoooo! You go, Marie-Louise Jensen!! You've made me believe in the magic of books again!
Anyway, this book was captivating, cute, fun, dangerous, and romantic all at the same time. This book has one of the most genuine and believable romances I've ever encountered. I didn't even put this book on my "wish-it-had-a-sequel" shelf because it was perfect. You know those books who from the beginning have make out scenes? Perhaps they are meant to invoke a sense of wanting or something, but for me it's on the same emotional level as reading about a guy getting his arm chopped off. At the end when Lord Stanton (Philip *sigh*) and Eleanor had their first kiss, it fricken gave me tingles, even though it wasn't overly romantic or french kissy. Because I had grown so emotionally attached to the characters, I could feel the love or whatever. Just saying - this was the first book in a long time that I can't think of anything hugely annoying or bothersome. A job well done, I must say. This is a masterpiece that Picasso himself would gawk at.
Anyway, this book was captivating, cute, fun, dangerous, and romantic all at the same time. This book has one of the most genuine and believable romances I've ever encountered. I didn't even put this book on my "wish-it-had-a-sequel" shelf because it was perfect. You know those books who from the beginning have make out scenes? Perhaps they are meant to invoke a sense of wanting or something, but for me it's on the same emotional level as reading about a guy getting his arm chopped off. At the end when Lord Stanton (Philip *sigh*) and Eleanor had their first kiss, it fricken gave me tingles, even though it wasn't overly romantic or french kissy. Because I had grown so emotionally attached to the characters, I could feel the love or whatever. Just saying - this was the first book in a long time that I can't think of anything hugely annoying or bothersome. A job well done, I must say. This is a masterpiece that Picasso himself would gawk at.
August 21, 2011
A brilliantly written book. Based on real events in history with real people.
I do take on period-based novels (especially something as difficult to achieve with skill like historical fiction) with some trepidation, but this particular story was very skilfully executed. Eleanor is a fantastic character. How much of her character is based in fact, I'm unsure, but she really came to life on page. And although she is aged only 15, I never once question her maturity in her mannerisms for she was SOOO well drawn.
The only niggle I had with the novel was the (very basic, I thought) faux pas of having characters drinking water. I'm by no means a Tudor period expert but the drinking of water was something I found myself questioning almost instantly. Upon checking I was right to question it, as during Tudor times the drinking of water was deemed quite dangerous. And to have a character drinking water seemed erroneous.
Other than that one niggle it was a wonderful read. Rich, well rounded characters and it gave a real taste for the period. I love books that can take you to a place and time and this certainly did that. If you love historical novels and the Tudor period, I recommend this book wholeheartedly.
I do take on period-based novels (especially something as difficult to achieve with skill like historical fiction) with some trepidation, but this particular story was very skilfully executed. Eleanor is a fantastic character. How much of her character is based in fact, I'm unsure, but she really came to life on page. And although she is aged only 15, I never once question her maturity in her mannerisms for she was SOOO well drawn.
The only niggle I had with the novel was the (very basic, I thought) faux pas of having characters drinking water. I'm by no means a Tudor period expert but the drinking of water was something I found myself questioning almost instantly. Upon checking I was right to question it, as during Tudor times the drinking of water was deemed quite dangerous. And to have a character drinking water seemed erroneous.
Other than that one niggle it was a wonderful read. Rich, well rounded characters and it gave a real taste for the period. I love books that can take you to a place and time and this certainly did that. If you love historical novels and the Tudor period, I recommend this book wholeheartedly.
October 10, 2017
I am pretty tired of the spunky historical heroines who hate sewing, but I was still proud of Eleanor when she was able to show off her jousting skills, and I liked her resourcefulness in trying to save her mother alone because nobody else was paying attention. The love interest, Stanton, was pretty charming too; he doesn't go around willfully misunderstanding her and condescending and getting in her way (ahem, "hero" of The Girl in the Mask). Instead he clearly likes her more and more as he gets to know her, and he is helpful when he can be -- even when she is not being particularly nice to him. Which brings me to my one qualm: Eleanor doesn't trust Stanton for most of the book, and her reasons are very understandable considering the abusive environment she grew up in. I felt like the narrative could have been more understanding about why she would believe her father's manipulations, and I didn't really want her to apologize for it. Her mother's ending was also a little too neat considering what she had gone through, but overall I really enjoyed this!
October 11, 2011
A fast-paced historical YA novel with a feisty heroine, set in England during the time of King Henry VIII (fortunately later than the overwritten Boleyn days) and loosely based on real events.
Young Lady Eleanor Hungerford's mother has been locked in a tower by Eleanor's father, for reasons that are never fully explained. Eleanor is determined, against the odds, to rescue her mother and escape the marriage that her father has planned for Eleanor herself.
Although the basic story line is fairly predictable, including the classic 'big misunderstanding' romance plot, it is a good read and there are some imaginative plot details. The characters are well drawn and if some of Eleanor's attitudes and exploits are rather modern, she's no more unbelievable than most historical novel heroines. The plot is very well paced and it's a real page-turner. A good one for teens and entertaining enough to keep this adult reading happily too.
Young Lady Eleanor Hungerford's mother has been locked in a tower by Eleanor's father, for reasons that are never fully explained. Eleanor is determined, against the odds, to rescue her mother and escape the marriage that her father has planned for Eleanor herself.
Although the basic story line is fairly predictable, including the classic 'big misunderstanding' romance plot, it is a good read and there are some imaginative plot details. The characters are well drawn and if some of Eleanor's attitudes and exploits are rather modern, she's no more unbelievable than most historical novel heroines. The plot is very well paced and it's a real page-turner. A good one for teens and entertaining enough to keep this adult reading happily too.
February 12, 2016
I wish I enjoyed this book more than I did. The story was interesting, I learned that it's based on an actual event, and I got to mark another book off my TBR list. That's good.
The book isn't bad at all, I just think it wasn't a right fit for me. I would have been completely taken with this book if I were 12-14, I just wasn't now.
Most annoying thing for me is the inconsistencies in the main character's knowledge of sex. First she has no clue what is being referred to, and she has no clue what ladies are preparing her for when she is called to Henry VIII's chamber, but suddenly at the end of the book, when she is accused of having "unnatural relations", she knows exactly what it is. At 15, Eleanor would definitely have known what was up, especially in Tudor times.
Pick up if you want to a quick read and to learn something new in a fictional setting, or just google "Farleigh Castle" to get the short version.
The book isn't bad at all, I just think it wasn't a right fit for me. I would have been completely taken with this book if I were 12-14, I just wasn't now.
Most annoying thing for me is the inconsistencies in the main character's knowledge of sex. First she has no clue what is being referred to, and she has no clue what ladies are preparing her for when she is called to Henry VIII's chamber, but suddenly at the end of the book, when she is accused of having "unnatural relations", she knows exactly what it is. At 15, Eleanor would definitely have known what was up, especially in Tudor times.
Pick up if you want to a quick read and to learn something new in a fictional setting, or just google "Farleigh Castle" to get the short version.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews