What do you think?
Rate this book
The Marwood Family #1
Dangerous Lady
Will Thomasin choose duty – or love…?
1527
At seventeen, Thomasin Marwood is plunged into court society when a husband is found for her elder sister, Cecilia.
But the mood at court is tense. It is split between the conservative Catholics, loyal to Queen Catherine of Aragon, and the fashionable Francophiles, enthralled by King Henry's mistress, Anne Boleyn.
While her parents sympathize with the old queen and her faith, Thomasin can not help but be drawn to the glamour and vitality Anne represents.
And her head is soon turned by the tall, dark and handsome Rafe Danvers who seems equally entranced with her.
But as a ward of Anne’s father, Sir Thomas Boleyn, Rafe represents the “other” side, of which Thomasin’s parents are unlikely to approve. And they have already lined up their own candidate for Thomasin’s hand, Sir Giles Waterson , who comes from wealth and good standing.
Thomasin finds herself torn between duty and the desire Rafe has aroused in her. But when she is drawn into a dark plot concerning Queen Catherine, she realises the court is far more dangerous than it appears…
Which path, and with whom, will she choose?
Dangerous Lady is a page-turning historical drama set at the court of King Henry VIII and featuring Anne Boleyn. It is the first book in the Marwood Family Tudor Saga Series.
The first book in a stunning Tudor historical series! A page-turning historical drama set at the court of King Henry VIII and featuring Anne Boleyn. For fans of Philippa Gregory, Elizabeth Chadwick, Carol McGrath and Anne O’Brien.
The Marwood Family - A Tudor Family Saga
1. Dangerous Lady
2. Troubled Queen
3. False Mistress
1527
At seventeen, Thomasin Marwood is plunged into court society when a husband is found for her elder sister, Cecilia.
But the mood at court is tense. It is split between the conservative Catholics, loyal to Queen Catherine of Aragon, and the fashionable Francophiles, enthralled by King Henry's mistress, Anne Boleyn.
While her parents sympathize with the old queen and her faith, Thomasin can not help but be drawn to the glamour and vitality Anne represents.
And her head is soon turned by the tall, dark and handsome Rafe Danvers who seems equally entranced with her.
But as a ward of Anne’s father, Sir Thomas Boleyn, Rafe represents the “other” side, of which Thomasin’s parents are unlikely to approve. And they have already lined up their own candidate for Thomasin’s hand, Sir Giles Waterson , who comes from wealth and good standing.
Thomasin finds herself torn between duty and the desire Rafe has aroused in her. But when she is drawn into a dark plot concerning Queen Catherine, she realises the court is far more dangerous than it appears…
Which path, and with whom, will she choose?
Dangerous Lady is a page-turning historical drama set at the court of King Henry VIII and featuring Anne Boleyn. It is the first book in the Marwood Family Tudor Saga Series.
The first book in a stunning Tudor historical series! A page-turning historical drama set at the court of King Henry VIII and featuring Anne Boleyn. For fans of Philippa Gregory, Elizabeth Chadwick, Carol McGrath and Anne O’Brien.
The Marwood Family - A Tudor Family Saga
1. Dangerous Lady
2. Troubled Queen
3. False Mistress
294 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 23, 2022
446 people are currently reading
623 people want to read
About the author
Amy Licence
41 books320 followersMedieval and Tudor historian, with a particular interest in women's lives and experiences, also dabble in Modernism. I write fiction and non-fiction, also journalism for The Guardian, BBC History website, The New Statesman, The Huffington Post, The English Review and The London Magazine. I appeared in TV documentaries "The Real White Queen and her Rivals" and "The Private Lives of the Tudors." Fellow of the Royal Historical Society.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
January 9, 2023
I had high hopes of this book because I have such a fascination with Tudor England. However, I don’t think it helped that I went into this novel remembering how much I enjoyed Alison Weir’s book about Katharine Parr, the sixth wife of Henry Tudor. Naturally, this book is nothing like it and I think this unfortunately impacted my overall enjoyment of the story.
Following Thomasin with her first experience of being in court, she realises that there is turbulence as Henry shows his dislike towards his first marriage. Quickly realising the importance of remaining in favour with the King, plus how much others seem to influence his actions, Licence shows how even Thomasin’s family seem to be on Henry’s radar. I loved how the writer captures this atmosphere and I could really get a sense of the uncertainty about who to support in this regime: Henry and his apparent desire for a new wife, or the old order of Queen Catherine.
As I have found with similar historical reads, there are always a lot of characters to keep track of. This is where I think Licence lost my attention as I thought it difficult to identify the different personalities. There are only a few key characters that are linked to Thomasin, but I struggled with those in the background who came and went, particularly with regards to their loyalties (or not) to the King. This certainly made it a less enjoyable novel and I think that the writer would have benefitted from developing some of the characters a bit more, especially as this book is under 300 pages.
The second half of the story was most enjoyable and I think this was because I had finally settled into the narrative. Thomasin seems to have grown up a fair amount from her short experience of Tudor life and has an awareness that her parents underestimate. From her connection with Rafe to her understanding her sister’s attitude towards pending marriage life, I thought that Licence started to pick up the pace in the latter half of the novel. There were revelations that I was not expecting and I started to get intrigued whether this would influence Henry’s outlook towards Thomasin’s family. It felt like a true snapshot of Tudor life and one that felt vivid and believable.
This is the start of a series and I was intrigued by the end of the story to see what would happen next to the Marwood family. It is evident that their role in Henry’s court is far from over and, as historical records show, this was not a time to relax and assume King Henry would remain favourable to the family name.
With thanks to Sapere books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Following Thomasin with her first experience of being in court, she realises that there is turbulence as Henry shows his dislike towards his first marriage. Quickly realising the importance of remaining in favour with the King, plus how much others seem to influence his actions, Licence shows how even Thomasin’s family seem to be on Henry’s radar. I loved how the writer captures this atmosphere and I could really get a sense of the uncertainty about who to support in this regime: Henry and his apparent desire for a new wife, or the old order of Queen Catherine.
As I have found with similar historical reads, there are always a lot of characters to keep track of. This is where I think Licence lost my attention as I thought it difficult to identify the different personalities. There are only a few key characters that are linked to Thomasin, but I struggled with those in the background who came and went, particularly with regards to their loyalties (or not) to the King. This certainly made it a less enjoyable novel and I think that the writer would have benefitted from developing some of the characters a bit more, especially as this book is under 300 pages.
The second half of the story was most enjoyable and I think this was because I had finally settled into the narrative. Thomasin seems to have grown up a fair amount from her short experience of Tudor life and has an awareness that her parents underestimate. From her connection with Rafe to her understanding her sister’s attitude towards pending marriage life, I thought that Licence started to pick up the pace in the latter half of the novel. There were revelations that I was not expecting and I started to get intrigued whether this would influence Henry’s outlook towards Thomasin’s family. It felt like a true snapshot of Tudor life and one that felt vivid and believable.
This is the start of a series and I was intrigued by the end of the story to see what would happen next to the Marwood family. It is evident that their role in Henry’s court is far from over and, as historical records show, this was not a time to relax and assume King Henry would remain favourable to the family name.
With thanks to Sapere books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2022
A great start to what I expect to be a very good series. This story focuses on the Marwood Family, a fictional family and their lives during Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn. What I liked about it is I know Henry's story inside and out but experiencing it from this family's perspective makes it fresh. You see a different point of view. I very much like the character of Thomasin and look forward to continue to see her cultivate the world around her. Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publishers for an e-arc in exchange for my honest opinion.
February 24, 2023
I’d like to give it 3 1/2 stars but can’t. I enjoyed the storyline but wish it had been developed a bit more. Great characters - I just needed more! Will read the next one to see if the stories are connected and rounded off.
January 23, 2023
I didn’t really like this book. I had a hard time getting into it. I’m a huge Anne Boleyn stan and I believe that she is one of the strongest women in history.
This book portrays her as a hot-headed woman who likes to play with the lives of others. She was far too religious to ever be that conniving. Even if she isn’t a Catholic, doesn’t mean she doesn’t believe that God is watching.
Thomilson is so young and sheltered. Her parents did nothing to prepare her or her older sister for court. Both of them were used in a political tennis match between Anne and Catherine.
I did like the look at the court with two distinct factions. Most portrayals don’t show anyone siding with Catherine, or Anne’s father being a weasel. He was a strong courtier who knew how to play the game. Destroying Cecelia and Thomilson in some petty revenge from decades ago makes him seem childish. I can’t imagine he would ever get into such a ridiculous situation.
This book portrays her as a hot-headed woman who likes to play with the lives of others. She was far too religious to ever be that conniving. Even if she isn’t a Catholic, doesn’t mean she doesn’t believe that God is watching.
Thomilson is so young and sheltered. Her parents did nothing to prepare her or her older sister for court. Both of them were used in a political tennis match between Anne and Catherine.
I did like the look at the court with two distinct factions. Most portrayals don’t show anyone siding with Catherine, or Anne’s father being a weasel. He was a strong courtier who knew how to play the game. Destroying Cecelia and Thomilson in some petty revenge from decades ago makes him seem childish. I can’t imagine he would ever get into such a ridiculous situation.
September 1, 2023
Painfully historically inaccurate. In no way realistic at all, a young woman would not kiss a man who wasn’t her husband in Tudor England especially if she was a literally lady of the court? Just a bit dumb to be honest as made the plot a bit silly and unbelievable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 10, 2023
This was an OK sort of read. I enjoyed how the tensions at Henry VIII's court were portrayed with Catherine of Aragon refusing to go away quietly and Anne Boleyn's power rising. The plot, though, wasn't convincing, a tale of petty revenge between the Boleyns and the Marwoods.
I don't think I will be reading any more of the series.
I don't think I will be reading any more of the series.
June 24, 2022
Dangerous Lady by Amy Licence is a great historical fiction that is the first book in the new series: The Marwood Family Tudor Saga.
This series takes place during the reign of Henry VIII and is set amongst his court. This book starts around 1527.
Thomasin Marwood is the main character that gives us an entry into the infamous Tudor court and drama.
There is intrigue, drama, suspense, mystery, love, politics and was entertaining. The author mixes a fictional set of characters into the real history of the drama associated with the factions that were present between Anne Boleyn and Queen Catherine and the unique and unprecedented situation that was taking place in England at that time.
I just love the Tudor period, and it wad really enjoyable to be transported back in time again to follow along.
I look forward to where this series goes from here.
4/5 stars
Thank you NG and Sapere Books for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub, Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 6/24/22.
This series takes place during the reign of Henry VIII and is set amongst his court. This book starts around 1527.
Thomasin Marwood is the main character that gives us an entry into the infamous Tudor court and drama.
There is intrigue, drama, suspense, mystery, love, politics and was entertaining. The author mixes a fictional set of characters into the real history of the drama associated with the factions that were present between Anne Boleyn and Queen Catherine and the unique and unprecedented situation that was taking place in England at that time.
I just love the Tudor period, and it wad really enjoyable to be transported back in time again to follow along.
I look forward to where this series goes from here.
4/5 stars
Thank you NG and Sapere Books for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub, Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 6/24/22.
June 27, 2023
Genre: Historical fiction (The intended audience is adults, but given the mild content, plotlines, and age of the protagonist, I think it could also be classified as teen/YA.)
Rating: 4.5/5 (rounded down)
Content warnings: Brief mentions of past violence/murder, some mild sexual touching and discussion (the whole book is very tame for Tudor fiction, if it were a film/TV show I would rate it a PG-13.)
I went into this book with fairly low expectations - I have lost count of how many books I have read set in the Tudor court, especially during the Boleyn era - so was expecting this to be just another retelling, enough to satisfy my craving for a Tudor story, but similar to the other books I've read and nothing special to recommend to others. While this book definitely did satisfy my Tudor craving and admittedly isn't anything unique or groundbreaking, the quality of it far exceeded my expectations and I will absolutely be recommending it to other historical fiction fans. In fact, I think it may be my favourite historical fiction read of this year so far.
I'm going to quickly touch on a few things I disliked about this book - my reasons for giving it a 4.5 rather than 5-star rating, and rounding that down on here to a 4 - but be assured that these are only minor things, not enough to spoil the book for me. The first of these is the fact that little actually happens with the real historical figures: the whole story takes place over just two weeks, as the Marwood family arrive at court in the build-up to their eldest daughter Cecilia's wedding, and Cecilia and the protagonist Thomasin fall in with the Boleyn faction. Most of the story is focused on the family's preparations for the wedding, and the two girls adjusting to court life: there aren't any huge scandals (except maybe at the end), Catherine of Aragon doesn't yet begin truly fighting to save her marriage, and little of the king's life is shown. Still, this aspect wasn't bad as it sounded because the Marwood family were an interesting set of characters, and I felt like a lot of the plots regarding the king, Catherine, and Anne are only just getting started, and will move a lot faster in future books of the series. Still, it would've been nice to see a bit more of the real historical figures. My second nitpick is with one particular detail of the writing style: over-description of clothing. Like most readers of Tudor fiction, I love a good description of a lavish gown and jewels, but Licence took it a bit far in places here, describing the minute details of every character's outfit in every scene, things I simply did not care about. I noticed this happened less as the book progressed, though, so hopefully the descriptions will continue to be reduced in subsequent books. And then the last thing that kept me from a 5-star rating was that there was nothing ground-breaking about this book: there are many, many similar novels out there focused on fictional protagonists at King Henry and Anne Boleyn's court. This was one of the better examples of such books, but it is still one of those same books nonetheless, and so if you've read a lot of similar stories, it may bore you a little.
Now onto the positives, which far outweighed the negatives in my opinion. Firstly, the writing style (bar the excessive descriptions) was very engaging, easy to understand and binge without being overly simple. Having read 3/4 of the authors the book is compared to in the description (I've yet to read any of Carol McGrath's work), I think they are fair comparisons to make, with Anne O'Brien's writing style probably being the most similar. The plotlines of this book were also a positive, which makes my above nitpick of little action with the king and Anne matter less: they are focused on the Marwood daughters' experiences as they attempt to settle into the court, as well as the romances they have. I'm not really a romance fan, so I appreciated the fact that the romances are mostly side plots in this book - important, but not the main focuses - and also the fact that neither
The characters, though, were what really made this book. Thomasin was a likable protagonist, who shows clear development over the course of the book, going from a naive girl practically a child, into a young adult with an understanding of her world. The development is gradual, subtle, and clearly caused by the events she experiences, a well-written example of character change. Still, I think Cecilia was actually the more interesting of the sisters: she's extremely stoic, the image of what a Tudor noblewoman should be on the outside, yet she has a hidden soft side which ultimately gets her into trouble. The male characters were also all very well-written, and I appreciated the way Richard Marwood treated his wife and children: it was refreshing to see a Tudor-era man who clearly respected the female members of his family, while still being strong and of his time. As for the depictions of the real-life historical characters in this story - King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, Catherine of Aragon, Thomas Cromwell, etc - I felt they were all accurate to how I imagined them to have been, and were similar to their depictions in most other historical novels I've read. Amy Licence definitely did her research here.
To conclude, "Dangerous Lady" is a great edition to the vast sea of Tudor historical fiction out there, and while it isn't anything groundbreaking, it was an entertaining read which fully satisfied my craving for Tudor court fiction and serves as an intriguing start to what I think will be a really good series. I look forward to reading book two, Troubled Queen, and will be recommending this series to other readers with similar tastes to my own.
Rating: 4.5/5 (rounded down)
Content warnings: Brief mentions of past violence/murder, some mild sexual touching and discussion (the whole book is very tame for Tudor fiction, if it were a film/TV show I would rate it a PG-13.)
I went into this book with fairly low expectations - I have lost count of how many books I have read set in the Tudor court, especially during the Boleyn era - so was expecting this to be just another retelling, enough to satisfy my craving for a Tudor story, but similar to the other books I've read and nothing special to recommend to others. While this book definitely did satisfy my Tudor craving and admittedly isn't anything unique or groundbreaking, the quality of it far exceeded my expectations and I will absolutely be recommending it to other historical fiction fans. In fact, I think it may be my favourite historical fiction read of this year so far.
I'm going to quickly touch on a few things I disliked about this book - my reasons for giving it a 4.5 rather than 5-star rating, and rounding that down on here to a 4 - but be assured that these are only minor things, not enough to spoil the book for me. The first of these is the fact that little actually happens with the real historical figures: the whole story takes place over just two weeks, as the Marwood family arrive at court in the build-up to their eldest daughter Cecilia's wedding, and Cecilia and the protagonist Thomasin fall in with the Boleyn faction. Most of the story is focused on the family's preparations for the wedding, and the two girls adjusting to court life: there aren't any huge scandals (except maybe at the end), Catherine of Aragon doesn't yet begin truly fighting to save her marriage, and little of the king's life is shown. Still, this aspect wasn't bad as it sounded because the Marwood family were an interesting set of characters, and I felt like a lot of the plots regarding the king, Catherine, and Anne are only just getting started, and will move a lot faster in future books of the series. Still, it would've been nice to see a bit more of the real historical figures. My second nitpick is with one particular detail of the writing style: over-description of clothing. Like most readers of Tudor fiction, I love a good description of a lavish gown and jewels, but Licence took it a bit far in places here, describing the minute details of every character's outfit in every scene, things I simply did not care about. I noticed this happened less as the book progressed, though, so hopefully the descriptions will continue to be reduced in subsequent books. And then the last thing that kept me from a 5-star rating was that there was nothing ground-breaking about this book: there are many, many similar novels out there focused on fictional protagonists at King Henry and Anne Boleyn's court. This was one of the better examples of such books, but it is still one of those same books nonetheless, and so if you've read a lot of similar stories, it may bore you a little.
Now onto the positives, which far outweighed the negatives in my opinion. Firstly, the writing style (bar the excessive descriptions) was very engaging, easy to understand and binge without being overly simple. Having read 3/4 of the authors the book is compared to in the description (I've yet to read any of Carol McGrath's work), I think they are fair comparisons to make, with Anne O'Brien's writing style probably being the most similar. The plotlines of this book were also a positive, which makes my above nitpick of little action with the king and Anne matter less: they are focused on the Marwood daughters' experiences as they attempt to settle into the court, as well as the romances they have. I'm not really a romance fan, so I appreciated the fact that the romances are mostly side plots in this book - important, but not the main focuses - and also the fact that neither
The characters, though, were what really made this book. Thomasin was a likable protagonist, who shows clear development over the course of the book, going from a naive girl practically a child, into a young adult with an understanding of her world. The development is gradual, subtle, and clearly caused by the events she experiences, a well-written example of character change. Still, I think Cecilia was actually the more interesting of the sisters: she's extremely stoic, the image of what a Tudor noblewoman should be on the outside, yet she has a hidden soft side which ultimately gets her into trouble. The male characters were also all very well-written, and I appreciated the way Richard Marwood treated his wife and children: it was refreshing to see a Tudor-era man who clearly respected the female members of his family, while still being strong and of his time. As for the depictions of the real-life historical characters in this story - King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, Catherine of Aragon, Thomas Cromwell, etc - I felt they were all accurate to how I imagined them to have been, and were similar to their depictions in most other historical novels I've read. Amy Licence definitely did her research here.
To conclude, "Dangerous Lady" is a great edition to the vast sea of Tudor historical fiction out there, and while it isn't anything groundbreaking, it was an entertaining read which fully satisfied my craving for Tudor court fiction and serves as an intriguing start to what I think will be a really good series. I look forward to reading book two, Troubled Queen, and will be recommending this series to other readers with similar tastes to my own.
June 30, 2022
Thank you to Netgalley and Sapere Books for the ARC. The opinions expressed are my own. It's 1527 and the fictional Thomasin Marwood and her family are heading to London from their home near Suffolk. Leaving the countryside for the Court of King Henry VIII for her sister's wedding. Their parents had served at Court in the reign of King Henry VII. It had been many years since and much had changed. King Henry VIII was trying to put aside his wife, Queen Catherine, for his besotted, Anne Boleyn. The new and dividing factions at Court are tense. Those who still favor the Queen and those who see her impending exile are following Anne Boleyn's rising star.
The Marwood family rejoins Court in the midst of this. Thomasin's Father is being petitioned by Thomas Cromwell, to join the Council at Court to vote on the validity of Queen Catherine and King Henry VIII's marriage. They are searching for anyway out of the marriage and want his help. Thomasin's Mother served Queen Catherine and her loyalty still lies with her. She is appalled at the changes in Court. Thomasin and her sister soon learn a hard lesson about trust, love and loyalty. They are naive and trusting and soon come to obstacles. Does the wedding of Thomasin's sister happen? Is happiness to be thwarted? Will Queen Catherine be put aside for Anne Boleyn?
It was an easy read; the romance and naievete a bit overdone. I'll probably try the next book to follow Thomasin as she joins Queen Catherine's Court. I'm a HUGE Tudor fan and have a background of reading and watching shows about the Tudors so my knowledge probably aided in the smooth reading of the book.
The Marwood family rejoins Court in the midst of this. Thomasin's Father is being petitioned by Thomas Cromwell, to join the Council at Court to vote on the validity of Queen Catherine and King Henry VIII's marriage. They are searching for anyway out of the marriage and want his help. Thomasin's Mother served Queen Catherine and her loyalty still lies with her. She is appalled at the changes in Court. Thomasin and her sister soon learn a hard lesson about trust, love and loyalty. They are naive and trusting and soon come to obstacles. Does the wedding of Thomasin's sister happen? Is happiness to be thwarted? Will Queen Catherine be put aside for Anne Boleyn?
It was an easy read; the romance and naievete a bit overdone. I'll probably try the next book to follow Thomasin as she joins Queen Catherine's Court. I'm a HUGE Tudor fan and have a background of reading and watching shows about the Tudors so my knowledge probably aided in the smooth reading of the book.
August 6, 2022
I'm a huge fan of Amy Licence's nonfiction works so was very intrigued to read a fiction book. The cover for this is beautiful, which is what caught my eye initially.
It comes as no surprise that the details of the Tudor world from the court, clothes and pastimes are exquisite, clearly Amy had used her knowledge to create a story where you can picture the beautiful dresses, gardens and dancing.
Descriptives aside, the story of Thomasin delves into the events and what life at court may have been like, especially for someone who had not been brought up there. The story is set at a time when loyalties were split between Catherine of Aragon and Anne Boleyn which meant Thomasin walking on eggshells and being completely naive about others intentions.
There's definitely a twist in this book which I won't spoil for anyone but it was a surprise and works brilliantly.
There's some fabulous fictional characters featuring alongside individuals such as Henry VIII and the Boleyns. Cecilia is a character that I couldn't decide if I liked or not, whilst Thomasin and her father are likeable from the beginning. I also really liked the portrayal of Queen Catherine and was very happy with the ending of the story.
Rafe is the character I was wary of from the beginning but I did like Sir Giles who becomes a central figure in the story and I'm interested to see if he appears again in the future, I do hope so.
I eagerly look forward to more from Thomasin and her family and friends.
Amy does explain who is fictional in the story which may help those unfamiliar with the Tudor court but even if you are this is an enthralling story that I thoroughly enjoyed.
It comes as no surprise that the details of the Tudor world from the court, clothes and pastimes are exquisite, clearly Amy had used her knowledge to create a story where you can picture the beautiful dresses, gardens and dancing.
Descriptives aside, the story of Thomasin delves into the events and what life at court may have been like, especially for someone who had not been brought up there. The story is set at a time when loyalties were split between Catherine of Aragon and Anne Boleyn which meant Thomasin walking on eggshells and being completely naive about others intentions.
There's definitely a twist in this book which I won't spoil for anyone but it was a surprise and works brilliantly.
There's some fabulous fictional characters featuring alongside individuals such as Henry VIII and the Boleyns. Cecilia is a character that I couldn't decide if I liked or not, whilst Thomasin and her father are likeable from the beginning. I also really liked the portrayal of Queen Catherine and was very happy with the ending of the story.
Rafe is the character I was wary of from the beginning but I did like Sir Giles who becomes a central figure in the story and I'm interested to see if he appears again in the future, I do hope so.
I eagerly look forward to more from Thomasin and her family and friends.
Amy does explain who is fictional in the story which may help those unfamiliar with the Tudor court but even if you are this is an enthralling story that I thoroughly enjoyed.
March 29, 2023
Thomasin Marwood is 17 and excited to visit the court of King Henry VIII. But everything has changed since her parents were last there. The Queen has been sidelined as Anne Boleyn's power increases. Thomasin needs to negotiate the political machinations of the court as well as romantic intrigues which threaten her honour...
Dangerous Lady is the first book in a series set in the Tudor era of the late 1520s. There is a mix of fictional characters as well as genuine figures from the age. I felt like I was immersed in the courtly life as well as the personal experiences of a teen coming of age.
Thomasin's sister Cecilia is set to marry at court and the sisters quickly find favour with both Queen Catherine and Anne Boleyn. Personal and political plotlines merge as Thomasin tries to survive in the dangerous court of Henry VIII. Forbidden love as well as courtly behaviour is of national importance in contrast to Thomasin's first personal experience of love and lust.
I have to confess that I adore the Tudor period so almost guzzled this book! I couldn't put it down and finished wthin a few hours, yet didn't want it to end. The author has done plenty of research and I felt that the characters behaved authentically. Thomasin is slightly impetuous and naive, unused to affairs of state and the heart. She is in danger due to her romantic relationships as well as her divided loyalties to the queen and the rising power of Anne Boleyn.
Dangerous Lady was a completely compelling book and a must for all Tudor fans!
Dangerous Lady is the first book in a series set in the Tudor era of the late 1520s. There is a mix of fictional characters as well as genuine figures from the age. I felt like I was immersed in the courtly life as well as the personal experiences of a teen coming of age.
Thomasin's sister Cecilia is set to marry at court and the sisters quickly find favour with both Queen Catherine and Anne Boleyn. Personal and political plotlines merge as Thomasin tries to survive in the dangerous court of Henry VIII. Forbidden love as well as courtly behaviour is of national importance in contrast to Thomasin's first personal experience of love and lust.
I have to confess that I adore the Tudor period so almost guzzled this book! I couldn't put it down and finished wthin a few hours, yet didn't want it to end. The author has done plenty of research and I felt that the characters behaved authentically. Thomasin is slightly impetuous and naive, unused to affairs of state and the heart. She is in danger due to her romantic relationships as well as her divided loyalties to the queen and the rising power of Anne Boleyn.
Dangerous Lady was a completely compelling book and a must for all Tudor fans!
July 9, 2022
1527 - Sir Richard & Lady Elizabeth Marwood are preparing to leave their home in Suffolk to go to London for the wedding of their oldest daughter, Cecilia, and to attend Court. They are accompanied by their second daughter, Thomasin, who is loath to leave the younger children and their quiet country home.
Once in London they are welcomed at Court with Cecilia and Thomasin meeting new people and being invited to events by both Queen Catherine and Anne Boleyn. For the girls life at Court was exciting but worrying as there were clear factions within the Court for the Queen and for Anne – who could they trust, believe and who was truly a friend?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, from the opening chapter, which neatly set the scene for the story to come, to the final chapters – intriguing and surprising. Real life people and events are skillfully blended within the story to give an entertaining and interesting read, full of surprises. Highly recommended.
Thanks to Sapere Books for a review copy
Once in London they are welcomed at Court with Cecilia and Thomasin meeting new people and being invited to events by both Queen Catherine and Anne Boleyn. For the girls life at Court was exciting but worrying as there were clear factions within the Court for the Queen and for Anne – who could they trust, believe and who was truly a friend?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, from the opening chapter, which neatly set the scene for the story to come, to the final chapters – intriguing and surprising. Real life people and events are skillfully blended within the story to give an entertaining and interesting read, full of surprises. Highly recommended.
Thanks to Sapere Books for a review copy
July 8, 2022
What a treat! A Tudor historical fiction book set in Henry VIII's court during his time when attempting to divorce Catherine of Aragon and marry Anne Boleyn.
Life in the Tudor court is brought to life really well, with it's many plots, sub plots and intrigue. The twist is in the fact that the Marwood family have come to court as one of the daughters is to get married in the King's chapel. The other daughter then gets involved with having to choose between Catherine or Anne - delicious!
I am not sure who the actual 'dangerous lady' is - there are a few candidates. Also, i would have like a little more background on rural Suffolk. It keeps getting a mention but no detail?
The story kept moving along at a good pace with an eye on the next book in the series I hope.
Thanks to Sapere Books for the chance to read and review
Life in the Tudor court is brought to life really well, with it's many plots, sub plots and intrigue. The twist is in the fact that the Marwood family have come to court as one of the daughters is to get married in the King's chapel. The other daughter then gets involved with having to choose between Catherine or Anne - delicious!
I am not sure who the actual 'dangerous lady' is - there are a few candidates. Also, i would have like a little more background on rural Suffolk. It keeps getting a mention but no detail?
The story kept moving along at a good pace with an eye on the next book in the series I hope.
Thanks to Sapere Books for the chance to read and review
July 12, 2022
Give me all the Tudor era drama!! A Dangerous Lady was such a fun read set in 1527 in King Henry VIII‘s court.
The book follows Thomasin Marwood and her family and how they navigate being in court for her eldest sister’s wedding. The court is currently in turmoil being divided by people in favor of Queen Catherine or in favor of King Henry VIII’s latest mistress Anne Bolyen.
I really enjoyed all the drama and twists and turns this book gave!! I liked all the characters I thought they were all accurate to the time period. It was nice to get Thomason’s point of view as a newcomer to court and getting her reactions to all the new experiences. The ending was to good and I can’t wait to read the next book!
Thank you to Netgalley and Sapere Books for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The book follows Thomasin Marwood and her family and how they navigate being in court for her eldest sister’s wedding. The court is currently in turmoil being divided by people in favor of Queen Catherine or in favor of King Henry VIII’s latest mistress Anne Bolyen.
I really enjoyed all the drama and twists and turns this book gave!! I liked all the characters I thought they were all accurate to the time period. It was nice to get Thomason’s point of view as a newcomer to court and getting her reactions to all the new experiences. The ending was to good and I can’t wait to read the next book!
Thank you to Netgalley and Sapere Books for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2022
"Dangerous Lady" sounds like a bodice ripper, but thankfully romance was only one element of this Tudor-era novel. The author is an historian, and it's wonderfully apparent. This book more than most others really gave me a sense of life in the reign of Henry VIII without drowning me in details and florid prose. At the same time, it works beautifully as a novel, unlike some other historians' fictional efforts, which don't strike an effective balance between the historical and the fictitious. I think it help that we're viewing court through the eyes of an outsider rather than from the viewpoint of a notable figure. Pacing was ideal, characters were believable and well rounded, and I've already preordered the sequel!
Thank you, NetGalley and Sapere Books, for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you, NetGalley and Sapere Books, for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 8, 2022
First of all I’d like to thank NetGalley and Sapere Books for giving me the chance to read this book.
Amy Licence states that since she was young she has wanted to write novels with Tudor families in mind and this book has achieved that wonderfully.
From the descriptions of smell, taste, sounds, surroundings and clothing I felt immersed into the Tudor world that centres on the Marwood family and their move into the the centre of the Tudor court of Henry VIII, Catherine of Aragon and Anne Boleyn.
I have always wanted to read a book such as this where the main players in that world actually become the side characters and we hear from unknown names.
I look forward to reading the next in the series - Troubled Queen.
Amy Licence states that since she was young she has wanted to write novels with Tudor families in mind and this book has achieved that wonderfully.
From the descriptions of smell, taste, sounds, surroundings and clothing I felt immersed into the Tudor world that centres on the Marwood family and their move into the the centre of the Tudor court of Henry VIII, Catherine of Aragon and Anne Boleyn.
I have always wanted to read a book such as this where the main players in that world actually become the side characters and we hear from unknown names.
I look forward to reading the next in the series - Troubled Queen.
October 24, 2022
Every Tudor fiction book I've ever read paints Anne Boleyn as an evil, conniving bitch, or Catherine of Aragon as a simpering halfwit. No one (and sadly this includes this book) accepts that they both had good and bad points, but were both, like the four that followed them, at the hands of a man who believed in the Divine right of kings - even as to having who he wanted, when he wanted.
The author seems to be very much in the Anne = evil camp, which makes this book very unbalanced, and brings about the central plot line, which is a shame, because it's so unnecessary.
I borrowed this from Kindle, and I will probably read the sequel when it is released, but I was disappointed by the author's rather lazy use of those old stereotypes.
The author seems to be very much in the Anne = evil camp, which makes this book very unbalanced, and brings about the central plot line, which is a shame, because it's so unnecessary.
I borrowed this from Kindle, and I will probably read the sequel when it is released, but I was disappointed by the author's rather lazy use of those old stereotypes.
June 20, 2025
I have a deep set love for books set during the Tudor era so I’m surprised it’s taken me so long to get round to this one! For me, it was captivating and did a great job at bringing all the intrigues of the Tudor court to the reader.
It’s set between the overlap of Catherine of Aragon and Anne Boleyn. One is Queen and the other is raring to step into her shoes but it sees those of the court divided. To side with the Queen is to go against the Boleyn faction and with her looming as a potential soon to be Queen, it may pay to be on Anne’s side. The sisters Thomasine and Cecilia must walk the tightrope carefully to be successful at court.
It was an easy audiobook to get stuck into and I can’t wait to throw myself straight into book two!
It’s set between the overlap of Catherine of Aragon and Anne Boleyn. One is Queen and the other is raring to step into her shoes but it sees those of the court divided. To side with the Queen is to go against the Boleyn faction and with her looming as a potential soon to be Queen, it may pay to be on Anne’s side. The sisters Thomasine and Cecilia must walk the tightrope carefully to be successful at court.
It was an easy audiobook to get stuck into and I can’t wait to throw myself straight into book two!
October 1, 2022
This was a new perspective of Anne Boleyn, for me anyway. Usually, I read accounts (fictional and real) that portray her as an evil, conniving witch intent on controlling King Henry XIII. While she did have an earth-shattering effect on British history, she was human. In Dangerous Lady, Anne befriends the Marwood sisters, inviting them to participate in her dances for the king and asking them to join her household when the time comes. Unfortunately, she is working behind the scenes to ruin the reputations of both sisters. I had a difficult time putting the book down, because of the twists and turns that kept happening as I tried to find a stopping point.
June 14, 2023
Loved the story!
This is the first book in the fictional Marwood family saga. The storyline is embedded in the reality of the historic Tudor drama during the reign of Henry VIII in England, at the time when Queen Catherine of Aragon and Anne Boleyn played for supremacy at court.
Fiction and history blend well, and I liked Thomasin Marwood, the main fictional character in the story. She moves at court through the intrigue and drama, experiencing it first hand, with fresh and innocent eyes. There is intrigue, cunning, suspense, manipulation, romance, suspense, heartache, and a great plot.
I totally enjoyed this novel. Can’t wait to see more in the second book.
This is the first book in the fictional Marwood family saga. The storyline is embedded in the reality of the historic Tudor drama during the reign of Henry VIII in England, at the time when Queen Catherine of Aragon and Anne Boleyn played for supremacy at court.
Fiction and history blend well, and I liked Thomasin Marwood, the main fictional character in the story. She moves at court through the intrigue and drama, experiencing it first hand, with fresh and innocent eyes. There is intrigue, cunning, suspense, manipulation, romance, suspense, heartache, and a great plot.
I totally enjoyed this novel. Can’t wait to see more in the second book.
May 4, 2024
A very good story
I enjoy reading historical fiction and have read quite a few books dealing with the Tudor era. Amy Licence is a skilled writer who fleshes out her fictional characters so that they emerge as real people. King Henry VIII, Ann Boleyn, Queen Katherine, and other actual historical characters, seem to appear at the edges of this story. I was glad the author didn't dwell on them but told the tale of a family spending 2 weeks at Court where their eldest daughter is to be married. Things don't go as planned however.
There are secrets that come out . This book was MT cup of tea!
I enjoy reading historical fiction and have read quite a few books dealing with the Tudor era. Amy Licence is a skilled writer who fleshes out her fictional characters so that they emerge as real people. King Henry VIII, Ann Boleyn, Queen Katherine, and other actual historical characters, seem to appear at the edges of this story. I was glad the author didn't dwell on them but told the tale of a family spending 2 weeks at Court where their eldest daughter is to be married. Things don't go as planned however.
There are secrets that come out . This book was MT cup of tea!
July 1, 2022
Having read all of non-fiction work of Amy Licence I was eager to see how she handled historical fiction. I was not disappointed, although the first half of the book seemed rather slow. The action intensified towards the latter stages and it promises to be a compelling series. We get a good insight into the factions of the Tudor court and the struggles that courtiers faced over whether to support Anne Boleyn or Catherine of Aragon and at the same time trying to keep on the right side of Henry VIII. I look forward eagerly for the next instalment of the Marwood family drama.
July 19, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and Sapere Books for this ARC.
I am no stranger to historical fiction, having read the likes of Philippa Gregory, Diana Gabaldon and Hilary Mantel and particular enjoy books set in the times of the Plantagenets and Tudors.
I found Dangerous Lady painted a rich and vibrant image of the Tudor Court and was enthralled with the political intrigue as the Marwood family were tested by loyalty, love and friendship as Henry VIII is determined to divorce Catherine of Aragon in favour of his new interest Anne Boleyn.
I cannot wait for the second instalment of this series.
I am no stranger to historical fiction, having read the likes of Philippa Gregory, Diana Gabaldon and Hilary Mantel and particular enjoy books set in the times of the Plantagenets and Tudors.
I found Dangerous Lady painted a rich and vibrant image of the Tudor Court and was enthralled with the political intrigue as the Marwood family were tested by loyalty, love and friendship as Henry VIII is determined to divorce Catherine of Aragon in favour of his new interest Anne Boleyn.
I cannot wait for the second instalment of this series.
June 27, 2022
This is the first in a new series about the Marwood Family In the Victorian era. Thomasina the youngest daughter in the family is the main character and we get to see the lives of the people in the royal through her eyes.
This was a historical romance novel with the loves and envy and deceit of the members of the royal court.
It was an easy read especially for the lazy days of summer and the beach.
This was a historical romance novel with the loves and envy and deceit of the members of the royal court.
It was an easy read especially for the lazy days of summer and the beach.
July 27, 2022
It's been such a long time since I've read anything Tudor period related and this book, Dangerous Lady, has sparked a renewed interest in me.
I found Amy Licence's writing to be both engaging and atmospheric. I would definitely recommend her work to anyone with any interest in the Tudors, especially those that like seeing/experiencing that world through a fictional person's eyes (such as Thomasin).
I found Amy Licence's writing to be both engaging and atmospheric. I would definitely recommend her work to anyone with any interest in the Tudors, especially those that like seeing/experiencing that world through a fictional person's eyes (such as Thomasin).
May 27, 2023
I loved this, I love any Tudor read but I did like the blend of fact and fiction within this. By doing this and through introducing fictional, yet realistic characters, Licence offers a new perspective. I loved all the characters, both real and fictional, they all felt real and acted in ways I would expect. I am looking forward to reading the next book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sapere Books for an advance copy.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sapere Books for an advance copy.
April 12, 2024
This was kind of fun honestly. Was it particularly accurate all the time? No...? I'll never fully forgive this book for the fact that within 3 pages it mixed up two of Henry's sisters, calling Margaret Queen of France, when it had just a few pages ago explained how Mary had been Queen of France (It's such a small detail but this is a short book and an editor should have 10000% caught this)
Otherwise, this was my first attempt at a Tudor story that wasn't about real people, as it covers the story of a young girl following her family to court, just as Henry is in the midst of his messy attempt at divorcing Katherine in favour of Anne Boleyn. I quite enjoyed seeing that story from the point of view of a random teenager living at the time, it made stakes lowers while giving a sort of new perspective about how someone would have felt about all of it, how they'd have been preoccupied by their own lives and issues.
The descriptions were quite nice, and Amy Licence is great at setting a scene, describing the food, and staying somewhat historically accurate while also giving historical facts about some of the protagonists.
There isn't MUCH of a plot and the twist bordered on melodrama, but...I kind of enjoyed that. It took me reading a spoiler though to understand what the point of the plot was, as it started out mainly with following the protagonist around, and mentions of her having a crush. It was occasionally stressful to see how close to ruining her own life she came, on many occasions, just because of a teenagers crush. The twist at the end was a bit much but it worked well with the tone of the story.
I'm curious as to what the love triangle will lead to, as I know it tends to go in favour of the dark brooding bad boy, but I really loved the man that the protagonist is encouraged to be with (not a spoiler, introduced quite early on).
I'm a bit wary of how many books the author is giving to this series, as the plot, again, was faint, but I'm willing to try book 2 as this was perfect escapism for someone who enjoys tudor fiction and wants some fun romance without worrying about the facts TOO MUCH. Like, it was accurate for the most part, did I occasionally raise a brow and think to myself "yeah that would not have happened" or "wrong historical figure", yeah, but it was just accurate enough that it didn't ruin it for me.
Also this is quite short a book, siting right under 300 pages, so it's definitely a fun summer/vacation read for Tudor lovers who are not super interested in vintage-style bodice rippers (in that, Dangerous Lady isn't using Tudor history as a fun costume with little substance and heavy dramatic clichés)
Otherwise, this was my first attempt at a Tudor story that wasn't about real people, as it covers the story of a young girl following her family to court, just as Henry is in the midst of his messy attempt at divorcing Katherine in favour of Anne Boleyn. I quite enjoyed seeing that story from the point of view of a random teenager living at the time, it made stakes lowers while giving a sort of new perspective about how someone would have felt about all of it, how they'd have been preoccupied by their own lives and issues.
The descriptions were quite nice, and Amy Licence is great at setting a scene, describing the food, and staying somewhat historically accurate while also giving historical facts about some of the protagonists.
There isn't MUCH of a plot and the twist bordered on melodrama, but...I kind of enjoyed that. It took me reading a spoiler though to understand what the point of the plot was, as it started out mainly with following the protagonist around, and mentions of her having a crush. It was occasionally stressful to see how close to ruining her own life she came, on many occasions, just because of a teenagers crush. The twist at the end was a bit much but it worked well with the tone of the story.
I'm curious as to what the love triangle will lead to, as I know it tends to go in favour of the dark brooding bad boy, but I really loved the man that the protagonist is encouraged to be with (not a spoiler, introduced quite early on).
I'm a bit wary of how many books the author is giving to this series, as the plot, again, was faint, but I'm willing to try book 2 as this was perfect escapism for someone who enjoys tudor fiction and wants some fun romance without worrying about the facts TOO MUCH. Like, it was accurate for the most part, did I occasionally raise a brow and think to myself "yeah that would not have happened" or "wrong historical figure", yeah, but it was just accurate enough that it didn't ruin it for me.
Also this is quite short a book, siting right under 300 pages, so it's definitely a fun summer/vacation read for Tudor lovers who are not super interested in vintage-style bodice rippers (in that, Dangerous Lady isn't using Tudor history as a fun costume with little substance and heavy dramatic clichés)
August 14, 2022
Thank you to Sapere Books for this ARC.
I enjoy reading about Tudor England and this was a new twist on things. It is told from the perspective of a young girl who is an outsider to the court. Her experiences interwine with the rise of Anne Boleyn and all the drama that occurs with it.
This was a fun book and a page turner. I can't wait to read the others in the series.
I enjoy reading about Tudor England and this was a new twist on things. It is told from the perspective of a young girl who is an outsider to the court. Her experiences interwine with the rise of Anne Boleyn and all the drama that occurs with it.
This was a fun book and a page turner. I can't wait to read the others in the series.
August 17, 2022
Lovely story interwoven fictional characters eith real well known characters
I enjoyed the fact that main characters weren't Henry,Anne and Catherine,as you get in so many books from that era, but a knights family just getting ready for a wedding.
This story is about love, betrayal, hopes and humiliation pitched in and around the court of Henry VIII
I enjoyed the fact that main characters weren't Henry,Anne and Catherine,as you get in so many books from that era, but a knights family just getting ready for a wedding.
This story is about love, betrayal, hopes and humiliation pitched in and around the court of Henry VIII
September 2, 2022
Thomasin Marwood is thrust into the court of Henry VIII at a time when he wants to divorce Catherine of Aragon in favour of Anne Boleyn. The family are in London for the wedding of eldest daughter Cecilia. Allegiances are tested, and age old secrets unfold. I am glad it is the first of a series, because the ending definitely left me wanting more!!. Looking forward to book 2!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews