Judith Arnopp Knihy

Adored by her parents and pampered by the court, the infant Princess Mary's life changes suddenly and drastically when her father's eye is taken by the enigmatic Anne Boleyn. Throughout her formative years, Mary stands firm against her father's determination to destroy both her mother's reputation, and the Catholic church. It is a battle that will last throughout both her father's and her brother's reign, until, almost broken by persecution, she learns of King Edward's death. She expects to be crowned queen but Mary has reckoned without John Dudley, the Duke of Northumberland, who before Mary can act, usurps her crown and places it on the head of her Protestant cousin, Lady Jane Grey. Furious and determined not to be beaten, Mary musters a vast army at Framlingham Castle; a force so strong that Jane Grey's supporters crumble in the face of it. Mary is at last, Queen of England. But her troubles are only just beginning. Rebellion, and heresy and the subsequent punishments take their toll both on Mary's health, and on the English people. Suspecting she is fatally ill, Mary steps up her campaign to compel her subjects to turn back to the Catholic faith. All who resist will face punishment for heresy in the flames of the Smithfield fires.

1537. As the year to end all years rolls to a close, King Henry VIII vents his continuing fury at the pope. The Holy Roman Church reels beneath the reformation and as the vast English abbeys crumble the royal coffers begin to fill. The people of the north, torn between loyalty to God and allegiance to their anointed king, embark upon a pilgrimage to guide their errant monarch back to grace

Set against the backdrop of 1547, this narrative delves into the tumultuous period of King Henry VIII's death and the ensuing power struggles in England. It explores the political intrigue and personal ambitions of key figures during the transition of power, highlighting the complexities of loyalty and betrayal. The story intricately weaves historical events with rich character development, providing insights into the lives of those who navigated the shifting tides of monarchy and governance in a pivotal moment of English history.

Exploring the complexities of moral dilemmas, this narrative delves into the struggles faced by individuals when their beliefs clash with societal expectations. Characters grapple with their conscience in a world that often prioritizes conformity over integrity. Through poignant storytelling, the book examines themes of personal responsibility, ethical decision-making, and the courage it takes to stand up for one's convictions, leading to profound transformations and self-discovery.

Exploring the intersection of science and spirituality, this narrative delves into the personal and societal conflicts that arise when faith meets empirical evidence. The protagonist grapples with profound questions about belief, ethics, and the nature of truth, leading to a transformative journey that challenges perceptions and opens dialogues. Themes of doubt, conviction, and the search for meaning resonate throughout, making it a thought-provoking read for those interested in the complexities of faith in a modern world.

Set in the timeless backdrop of Arden Priory, the story unfolds with the arrival of a nameless child left at the gatehouse door. The nuns, dedicated to their life of service, embrace her and raise her within the monastery's walls, intertwining her fate with their own. As the child grows, the narrative explores themes of identity, belonging, and the enduring bonds formed in a secluded community, all against the rich history of the priory that has remained unchanged for centuries.

Set against the backdrop of political intrigue, the narrative follows King Henry VIII as he grapples with the urgency of securing his dynasty. With only one legitimate son and two illegitimate daughters, the aging monarch seeks a new wife after the death of Jane Seymour, driven by the desperate need for more heirs to ensure the survival of the Tudor lineage. The story delves into themes of power, legacy, and the complexities of royal relationships during a tumultuous period in English history.

Tudor London: 1540. Each night, after dark, men flock to Bankside seeking girls of easy virtue; prostitutes known as The Winchester Geese. Joanie Toogood has worked the streets of Southwark since childhood but her path is changed forever by an encounter with Francis Wareham, a spy for the King's secretary, Thomas Cromwell. Meanwhile, across the River, at the glittering court of Henry VIII, Wareham also sets his cap at Evelyn and Isabella Bourne, members of the Queen's household and the girls, along with Joanie, are drawn into intrigue and the shadow of the executioner's blade. Set against the turmoil of Henry VIII's middle years, The Winchester Goose provides a brand new perspective of the happenings at the royal court, offering a frank and often uncomfortable observation of life at both ends of the social spectrum.

A how-to guide for dressing like a Tudor. Based on the author's own experience as a member of a re-enactment group, it offers tips and tricks on how to create your own historic garments.