NEW IN 2016:
Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville, a joint biography of one of my favourite kings, and his queen, Elizabeth Woodville. Published by Amberley, February 2016.
How did the 18-year old manage to take the throne, and why?
Why did Edward marry in secret?
How did he model himself on the legendary King Arthur?
Can Edward be considered to be a Renaissance king?
How did his rule by personality impact the events of 1483?
"For those that love history this book is a treasure. Amy Licence's new book: Edward IV & Elizabeth Woodville - A True Romance, is skillfully written; it is stirring and a joy to read. As she has done with all her other work, it is brilliantly researched and presents her readers with renewed insight on historical realities occasionally overlooked.
Ms. Licence brings Edward and Elizabeth to life in a way few ever have. She gives an in-depth look at things like the educational plan that was laid out for their son and heir, Prince Edward. Who was to guide him, the quality of time, a balance of lessons and leisure. She shows that they were two loving parents committed to shape him into a true Renaissance Prince.
Amy Licence opens a vast window into Edward IV's interest in the arts. Edward's desire for knowledge in these areas surpassed that of any English monarch before him. Ms. Licence guides you through his pursuits in the arts; music, the humanists, painting, and incorporating new ideas into his court. She shows us Edward's interest in illuminated manuscripts, which led to a large collection that can still be seen today.
This book gives the reader detail and narration into parts of Edward and Elizabeth's day to day life with documentation and actual accounts. She recounts Margaret of Burgundy's return to England in 1480 in its entire stunning array, not just who was there and how they were dressed; it is followed up with the actual wardrobe accounts. You can see what this family reunion actually cost.
She also gives a delightful view into a chapter of Edward's reign that is very rarely seen; Edward and the Alchemists. Ms. Licence has included Edward's association with the alchemist George Ripley who dedicated The Compound of Alchymy to Edward IV in 1471. Yet of more curiosity she has included another lesser known, far more interesting alchemist who discovered the 'Elixir of Gold', Thomas Norton.
Edward IV and Elizabeth sheds light on the death of Edward, son of Margaret of Anjou at the Battle of Tewkesbury in May of 1471. Ms. Licence points to Fabian's account of the event. She brings together so many contemporary accounts that one cannot fail to discover something new in her work. It is part of the brilliance of her composition; I have never finished one of her books without learning at least five new things. She has followed up all of her writing with references to the research she used to put together this work of art, for a work of art it is indeed. What an artist does with colours on a canvas, Amy Licence does with words on paper."
Anne Marie Bouchard, Amazon review.
"One of the things I like best about Amy's writing is the way she can make real persons emerge from mundane details. This book was carefully researched, and Amy cites household purchases and other expenditures, to support her portrait of this couple and their relationship, as well as her use of third-party contemporary information from the Croyland Chronicle, Commines, Paston letters, Mancini and such. I imagine it was very challenging to distill the personalities of Edward and Elizabeth, who kept no journals that we know of, and have very few if any surviving letters. Amy has accomplished this in her book about them. Though including minute details from household expenditures and such, this book reads like a novel and Amy really makes you want to find out what happens next. She also includes a very original and interesting analysis of Edward's reign as the beginning of the Renaissance in England. You will like this book if you are at all interested in the Wars of the Roses. Go read it."
Jo Anne Narramore, Amazon reviewer.
"Amy Licence writes readable as well as relatable history. This is a big time period to tackle, filled with controversial mine-fields beginning with the story of Elizabeth's and Edward's chance meeting, to tackling the king's questionable birth, as well as his own children's legitimacy due to the possible pre-contract with Eleanor Butler. Licence's book covers a vast array of topics. She explains the connection of Edward's court to Arthurian legends. She deals extensively with each of their backgrounds and the tumultuous times they both lived. She is able to explain each of their tangled lineages, detailing the importance of Edward's place in the succession. Elizabeth's background is given equal attention, giving a three dimensional picture of their expectations and positions in late medieval society. No subject is glossed over. I loved the way she described Edward's court from clothing to food, giving an insiders picture to what life was like. Licence gives the facts, drawing as detailed a
picture as she can, without imposing her own opinion. She makes sure to include other historians theories, enabling the reader to come to their own conclusion. Her Elizabeth seems real, not the siren or witch with magical powers of persuasion, but a concerned mother, who acts swiftly to protect her brood. Edward gave up the possibility of an extensive dowry and alliances he would have gotten with a foreign princess. He lost the trust and friendship of Warwick, his cousin and "Kingmaker." He took a leap angering the nobility class and his advisors, all for the chance to marry a poor widow a few years his senior. I don't need any more proof that this must have been a love match. Perhaps he saw in his wife, a woman equal to keeping up with the shining splendor of his Camelot."
Author and reviewer, Carole P Roman.
"It is the stuff legends are made of – and fairy tales. The story of how a penniless widow rose to become the Queen of England. After examining the lives of many of the characters of the Wars of the Roses and the Tudor period, author and historian Amy Licence has turned her attention to the greatest love story of Medieval England; Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville, a true Cinderella story if ever there was one.
Amy Licence’s latest book, Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville: A True Romance, is remarkable in that it is not a fairy tale, it’s not a historical fiction novel. It is the true story of how Edward IV came to be married to a mere ‘commoner’. In a wonderfully lively retelling of the lives of Edward IV and his queen, Ms Licence leaves no stone unturned. She tells the story from the beginning in a fascinating and engaging narrative of the lives of her main characters, and the lives of those around them.
Amy Licence goes into great detail about Edward’s love life and relationships, examining all the accusations ever levelled against him. Her love of her subjects shines through. The book provides a thorough analysis, whilst being lively and enthralling.
“A True Romance” is a marvellous piece of research presented in such a manner that will have the novice and the expert glued to every page. The controversies surrounding the couple are discussed in detail: their secret marriage, Edward’s reputation, Elizabeth’s social status.
This romance is presented in the context of the period in which it happened. The author gives a comprehensive overview of the Wars of the Roses, and the characters involved, detailing the lives of the individuals close to Edward and Elizabeth, and the separate lives of the couple themselves before they come together. Their relationship is not only presented as a love story, but also in the context of the period in which they were living, demonstrating how big an upset it caused on the international stage.
In this book Ms Licence demonstrates not only her extensive knowledge of the events of the era, but of all aspects of the period; from May Day traditions to the Sumptuary Laws, to the people themselves.
Amy Licence’s writing style is so easy to read and free-flowing, it is as if she is in the room talking to you. She brings the past to life in a vivid and entertaining way. Crammed full of facts and information taken from primary sources, the book tells the story not only of Edward and Elizabeth, but also of their wider family and affinity, demonstrating how the lives of their friends and family are interlinked and how it influences the couple, their decisions and the world around them. The book discusses all aspects of the evidence available. This is presented in an objective and fair way; from the chronicles of the time, to literary representations and even rumours and archaeological evidence. The reliability and veracity of the evidence is explained and thoroughly analysed in detail, leaving the reader nodding in agreement at the author’s conclusions; her arguments are thorough and persuasive.
A major strength in Ms Licence’s work is that she shows respect when discussing the theories of fellow historians; whether she agrees with them or not.
This biography of Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville leaves no stone unturned. Amy Licence discusses every legend related to the couple, explores the development of their relationship and its effects on the lives of the couple, their families and the nation at large. Every aspect of their lives is discussed, leaving no situation unexamined and no rumour ignored.
Amy Licence presents a marriage and relationship that is as human and complex as any celebrity marriage of today. This is a wonderful study of one of the most famous love affairs in history in a book which is at once sympathetic, vivid and lively.
In short, this book is a fabulous biography of a romance that changed English history a forever. Thoroughly researched and stunningly presented, it is a must-read for all lovers of history, romance and the Wars of the Roses, themselves."
Author, blogger and reviewer Sharon Bennett Connolly
How did the 18-year old manage to take the throne, and why?
Why did Edward marry in secret?
How did he model himself on the legendary King Arthur?
Can Edward be considered to be a Renaissance king?
How did his rule by personality impact the events of 1483?
"For those that love history this book is a treasure. Amy Licence's new book: Edward IV & Elizabeth Woodville - A True Romance, is skillfully written; it is stirring and a joy to read. As she has done with all her other work, it is brilliantly researched and presents her readers with renewed insight on historical realities occasionally overlooked.
Ms. Licence brings Edward and Elizabeth to life in a way few ever have. She gives an in-depth look at things like the educational plan that was laid out for their son and heir, Prince Edward. Who was to guide him, the quality of time, a balance of lessons and leisure. She shows that they were two loving parents committed to shape him into a true Renaissance Prince.
Amy Licence opens a vast window into Edward IV's interest in the arts. Edward's desire for knowledge in these areas surpassed that of any English monarch before him. Ms. Licence guides you through his pursuits in the arts; music, the humanists, painting, and incorporating new ideas into his court. She shows us Edward's interest in illuminated manuscripts, which led to a large collection that can still be seen today.
This book gives the reader detail and narration into parts of Edward and Elizabeth's day to day life with documentation and actual accounts. She recounts Margaret of Burgundy's return to England in 1480 in its entire stunning array, not just who was there and how they were dressed; it is followed up with the actual wardrobe accounts. You can see what this family reunion actually cost.
She also gives a delightful view into a chapter of Edward's reign that is very rarely seen; Edward and the Alchemists. Ms. Licence has included Edward's association with the alchemist George Ripley who dedicated The Compound of Alchymy to Edward IV in 1471. Yet of more curiosity she has included another lesser known, far more interesting alchemist who discovered the 'Elixir of Gold', Thomas Norton.
Edward IV and Elizabeth sheds light on the death of Edward, son of Margaret of Anjou at the Battle of Tewkesbury in May of 1471. Ms. Licence points to Fabian's account of the event. She brings together so many contemporary accounts that one cannot fail to discover something new in her work. It is part of the brilliance of her composition; I have never finished one of her books without learning at least five new things. She has followed up all of her writing with references to the research she used to put together this work of art, for a work of art it is indeed. What an artist does with colours on a canvas, Amy Licence does with words on paper."
Anne Marie Bouchard, Amazon review.
"One of the things I like best about Amy's writing is the way she can make real persons emerge from mundane details. This book was carefully researched, and Amy cites household purchases and other expenditures, to support her portrait of this couple and their relationship, as well as her use of third-party contemporary information from the Croyland Chronicle, Commines, Paston letters, Mancini and such. I imagine it was very challenging to distill the personalities of Edward and Elizabeth, who kept no journals that we know of, and have very few if any surviving letters. Amy has accomplished this in her book about them. Though including minute details from household expenditures and such, this book reads like a novel and Amy really makes you want to find out what happens next. She also includes a very original and interesting analysis of Edward's reign as the beginning of the Renaissance in England. You will like this book if you are at all interested in the Wars of the Roses. Go read it."
Jo Anne Narramore, Amazon reviewer.
"Amy Licence writes readable as well as relatable history. This is a big time period to tackle, filled with controversial mine-fields beginning with the story of Elizabeth's and Edward's chance meeting, to tackling the king's questionable birth, as well as his own children's legitimacy due to the possible pre-contract with Eleanor Butler. Licence's book covers a vast array of topics. She explains the connection of Edward's court to Arthurian legends. She deals extensively with each of their backgrounds and the tumultuous times they both lived. She is able to explain each of their tangled lineages, detailing the importance of Edward's place in the succession. Elizabeth's background is given equal attention, giving a three dimensional picture of their expectations and positions in late medieval society. No subject is glossed over. I loved the way she described Edward's court from clothing to food, giving an insiders picture to what life was like. Licence gives the facts, drawing as detailed a
picture as she can, without imposing her own opinion. She makes sure to include other historians theories, enabling the reader to come to their own conclusion. Her Elizabeth seems real, not the siren or witch with magical powers of persuasion, but a concerned mother, who acts swiftly to protect her brood. Edward gave up the possibility of an extensive dowry and alliances he would have gotten with a foreign princess. He lost the trust and friendship of Warwick, his cousin and "Kingmaker." He took a leap angering the nobility class and his advisors, all for the chance to marry a poor widow a few years his senior. I don't need any more proof that this must have been a love match. Perhaps he saw in his wife, a woman equal to keeping up with the shining splendor of his Camelot."
Author and reviewer, Carole P Roman.
"It is the stuff legends are made of – and fairy tales. The story of how a penniless widow rose to become the Queen of England. After examining the lives of many of the characters of the Wars of the Roses and the Tudor period, author and historian Amy Licence has turned her attention to the greatest love story of Medieval England; Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville, a true Cinderella story if ever there was one.
Amy Licence’s latest book, Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville: A True Romance, is remarkable in that it is not a fairy tale, it’s not a historical fiction novel. It is the true story of how Edward IV came to be married to a mere ‘commoner’. In a wonderfully lively retelling of the lives of Edward IV and his queen, Ms Licence leaves no stone unturned. She tells the story from the beginning in a fascinating and engaging narrative of the lives of her main characters, and the lives of those around them.
Amy Licence goes into great detail about Edward’s love life and relationships, examining all the accusations ever levelled against him. Her love of her subjects shines through. The book provides a thorough analysis, whilst being lively and enthralling.
“A True Romance” is a marvellous piece of research presented in such a manner that will have the novice and the expert glued to every page. The controversies surrounding the couple are discussed in detail: their secret marriage, Edward’s reputation, Elizabeth’s social status.
This romance is presented in the context of the period in which it happened. The author gives a comprehensive overview of the Wars of the Roses, and the characters involved, detailing the lives of the individuals close to Edward and Elizabeth, and the separate lives of the couple themselves before they come together. Their relationship is not only presented as a love story, but also in the context of the period in which they were living, demonstrating how big an upset it caused on the international stage.
In this book Ms Licence demonstrates not only her extensive knowledge of the events of the era, but of all aspects of the period; from May Day traditions to the Sumptuary Laws, to the people themselves.
Amy Licence’s writing style is so easy to read and free-flowing, it is as if she is in the room talking to you. She brings the past to life in a vivid and entertaining way. Crammed full of facts and information taken from primary sources, the book tells the story not only of Edward and Elizabeth, but also of their wider family and affinity, demonstrating how the lives of their friends and family are interlinked and how it influences the couple, their decisions and the world around them. The book discusses all aspects of the evidence available. This is presented in an objective and fair way; from the chronicles of the time, to literary representations and even rumours and archaeological evidence. The reliability and veracity of the evidence is explained and thoroughly analysed in detail, leaving the reader nodding in agreement at the author’s conclusions; her arguments are thorough and persuasive.
A major strength in Ms Licence’s work is that she shows respect when discussing the theories of fellow historians; whether she agrees with them or not.
This biography of Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville leaves no stone unturned. Amy Licence discusses every legend related to the couple, explores the development of their relationship and its effects on the lives of the couple, their families and the nation at large. Every aspect of their lives is discussed, leaving no situation unexamined and no rumour ignored.
Amy Licence presents a marriage and relationship that is as human and complex as any celebrity marriage of today. This is a wonderful study of one of the most famous love affairs in history in a book which is at once sympathetic, vivid and lively.
In short, this book is a fabulous biography of a romance that changed English history a forever. Thoroughly researched and stunningly presented, it is a must-read for all lovers of history, romance and the Wars of the Roses, themselves."
Author, blogger and reviewer Sharon Bennett Connolly
"Red Roses: Blanche of Gaunt to Margaret Beaufort" about the women of the Lancastrian Dynasty over a period of 150 years, March 2016, The History Press.
Who were the women behind the Lancastrian dynasty?
What qualities did they share as mothers, wives and queens?
What contributions did they make to history?
Why is the narrative of the white swan just as important as that of the red rose?
This was an era of powerful women. Read about Blanche of Lancaster, Katherine Swynford, Mary and Eleanor de Bohun, Anne of Bohemia, Isabelle of France, Jacqueline of Hainault, Eleanor Cobham, Joan of Navarre, Catherine de Valois, Margaret of Anjou, Margaret Beaufort and others.
"I agree totally with the two other reviewers of this excellent book. The Wars of the Roses can seem like an over ploughed field at times, but this is a refreshing look at the women whose marriages, political alliances, personal influence and in many cases, prolific child bearing were key elements in the process which saw Lancastrian domination yield to Yorkist power and finally to the Tudor dynasty.
Some, such as Margaret of Anjou were participants in tactical marriages, and some such as Katherine Swynford, John of Gaunt's long time mistress, later wife, were in romantic, chosen relationships. One of the joys of this book is the analysis of Margaret Beaufort, whose long life culminated in watching her grandson, Henry the Eighth, crowned as a perfect Tudor monarch. This tiny little woman, married and mother of the future Henry the 7th at the extremely tender age of 13, was at the heart of English politics throughout her multiple marriages and is analysed here in a much more sympathetic way. The lives being studied are placed clearly in context, and in an understandable chronological order that covers their occasionally overlapping periods of influence.
The more one reads about these little child brides, royal baby makers and matriarchs, the more one is in awe of their sheer strength, both physical and mental as war and uncertainty flowed around their husbands, sons, brothers, fathers and lovers. These were challenging times to be a woman, and as Eleanor Cobham and Jacquetta Woodville, amongst others discovered, nothing could damage a woman's finances and reputation quite as much as an allegation of witchcraft.: even the heroic Henry the 5th, victor at Agincourt, used it to clip the wings of his widowed stepmother, Joan of Navarre.
The research is superb and the author has accorded her subjects the greatest respect and dignity . In telling their stories, she has greatly increased our understanding of the period in historical terms, but also on the personal and human level."
Eleanor B, top Amazon reviewer.
"Amy Licence is arguably the most prolific historical writer in Britain at the moment, and I often marvel at how she constantly puts out numerous books concurrently without any depreciation in quality.
That being said, within a few years so many books have been released on the subject it seems difficult to find a book that takes a fresh look at the conflict. Licence has managed to do just that.
What is particularly appreciated is that the author does not attempt to enforce her developed opinion as fact, but rather puts forward the information and lets the reader decide. It’s a power I, as the reader, appreciates being given.
As is Licence’s wont, Red Roses is a thorough and detailed piece of work, well researched and different enough from other Wars of the Roses books to make it a worthwhile read."
Author Nathen Amin.
October, 2016, Amberley Publishing, Catherine of Aragon:
"Amy Licence's book explores this tempestuous life and shows Catherine to be a remarkably learned and gifted woman beloved of the English people who, in the main, remained loyal and adored her to the very end. She was a woman of great influence through her Spanish relations and was a consummate politician. Amy believes as I do that this amazing woman is deserving of greater respect and appreciation then is often given her by most historians of the period. Its a very long and exhaustively researched book that I thoroughly recommend to both the academic and general historian, buy it now!"
Tim Cole, Amazon review
"It’s fair to say, this may just be the definitive account of the life of Catherine of Aragon.
The author leaves no stone unturned, and covers the entirety of Queen Catherine’s life, not just her more infamous moments. Anyone with a passing interest in the Tudors will know of Catherine’s doomed marriage to Arthur, followed by her second union with his brother, Henry. This does not, and should not, define Catherine, however, and the author does a great job in examining the early life of the Spanish princess, from her birth in 1485 to her upbringing amongst the fascinating and colourful royal court of Ferdinand of Aragon and Isabella of Castile, Europe’s renowned Catholic Monarchs. Catherine’s later devoutness and stubbornness did not come from nowhere, it was imbued in her as a product of this illustrious Spanish union.
Particularly fascinating, and crucial to Catherine’s life, is the detailed account of her 1501 wedding to Arthur, particularly the subsequent ‘did they, didn’t they?’ bedding ceremony, or ‘the most famous bedding ceremony of all time’ as Licence aptly puts it. Intriguingly, Licence offers a third, graphic, scenario as to what happened on that fateful night, a compelling theory that may just make you blush.
We are also treated to an in-depth insight into Catherine’s life in between her marriages. It is often overlooked that this span of time was eight years, that is almost a decade of character growth which is often disregarded in other books on the subject. It is these insights into the lesser-known minutiae of the queen’s life that make Licence’s book a worthwhile purchase. In fact, I’d argue it’s a necessity for anyone who wishes to study, or gain greater knowledge, of the first half of the Tudor century of rule.
As expected perhaps from the leading Tudor historian on female matters, this book is sympathetic and understanding of its subject, but that’s not to say in a biased or predisposed way. Licence comes to her conclusions about Katherine through sheer research of her character, her influences and her actions, and puts forward a compelling case of a pious and courageous woman who only sought to serve her god, and serve her husband, in the manner she thought best. This is a compassionate and positive portrayal of Catherine, but that is only because it is the least the woman deserves.
Quite simply, there doesn’t appear to be anything more said on the subject of Catherine of Aragon, that what Amy Licence has covered in her colossal biography."
Nathen Amin, author of "Tudor Wales."
"Catherine of Aragon, an Intimate Life of Henry VIII’s True Wife by Amy Licence is one of those incredible books that you can’t get away from. Days after you’ve finished it, your mind is still pondering the twists and turns in the incredible story that has unfolded before you. And yet, this is not a gripping novel, it’s a biography … a real-life story of one of England’s most famous queens, told in an expert, accessible fashion by one of today’s most prominent historians of women’s history.
The level of detail in this book is incredible, Amy Licence has looked into every corner of Catherine’s life-story. It paints a wonderful, vivid picture of the life of a Renaissance princess. From even before her earliest years, the author charts Catherine’s life in its entirety, giving us a complete picture of the world that surrounded the young princess from the moment she was born to the moment of her death.
Not only does the author retell the events of the life of Catherine of Aragon, chronologically, but she also highlights the influences that affected her decisions and actions throughout that life. From her parents and the reconquest of Spain, through her marriage to Arthur and the lonely years following Arthur’s death, we see the events that influenced and shaped Catherine’s life as Queen of England and wife of Henry VIII.
Catherine of Aragon, an Intimate Life of Henry VIII’s True Wife discusses the personalities and character of those who had a major effect on Catherine’s life, giving us an unprecedented, detailed view of those who surrounded her at various stages in her career as princess and queen. Catherine’s marriage to Prince Arthur is thoroughly examined, giving an insight into the relationship of this young couple, a relationship that would eventually change the course of English history. We see the good and bad of the men who were to decide Catherine’s fate, in her father, Ferdinand, and father-in-law, Henry VII, and learn of Catherine’s struggles to stay positive in the face of the two kings trying to get the best deal for themselves in Catherine’s marriage. And we see an intriguing biography of Henry VIII as he grows from being Catherine’s saviour and a magnificent Renaissance prince, to being her jailer and tormentor.
Amy Licence places Catherine’s life firmly within the Europe of the time, displaying a brilliant understanding of the Reformation, and its progress from central Europe to Henry’s court. Moreover, despite the eventual failure of the marriage, Amy Licence paints a glittering picture of the court of Henry and Catherine at its height, when this young, formidable couple were the superstars of Europe.
The most revealing part of the book is in the character of Catherine herself. The author has researched every aspect of Catherine’s life and personality, providing a portrait of a formidable woman navigating her way through a male-dominated world while trying to hold true to her deeply ingrained Catholic principles. And with this comes the realisation that it must have taken an inordinate amount of personal courage to face down Henry and his demands, and the overriding fear for her own personal safety.
Of course, the latter part of the book focuses on the divorce. I am no great fan of Catherine of Aragon and have often wondered at her stubbornness and why she was so unmovable in the face of Henry’s desperate need for an heir. Amy Licence explains Catherine’s viewpoint with absolute clarity; the reasons she stuck to her guns at the risk of her own safety and that of her daughter. The author’s theories and arguments are well though-out and incisive, giving an unprecedented insight into the mind of this amazing queen and evoking empathy in the least sympathetic of readers, I’m sure.
I have no doubt that Catherine of Aragon, an Intimate Life of Henry VIII’s True Wife will be seen as the definitive biography of Catherine of Aragon. It is an impressive, essential complement to any Tudor library."
Sharon Bennett Connolly, author, blogger and reviewer.
Tim Cole, Amazon review
"It’s fair to say, this may just be the definitive account of the life of Catherine of Aragon.
The author leaves no stone unturned, and covers the entirety of Queen Catherine’s life, not just her more infamous moments. Anyone with a passing interest in the Tudors will know of Catherine’s doomed marriage to Arthur, followed by her second union with his brother, Henry. This does not, and should not, define Catherine, however, and the author does a great job in examining the early life of the Spanish princess, from her birth in 1485 to her upbringing amongst the fascinating and colourful royal court of Ferdinand of Aragon and Isabella of Castile, Europe’s renowned Catholic Monarchs. Catherine’s later devoutness and stubbornness did not come from nowhere, it was imbued in her as a product of this illustrious Spanish union.
Particularly fascinating, and crucial to Catherine’s life, is the detailed account of her 1501 wedding to Arthur, particularly the subsequent ‘did they, didn’t they?’ bedding ceremony, or ‘the most famous bedding ceremony of all time’ as Licence aptly puts it. Intriguingly, Licence offers a third, graphic, scenario as to what happened on that fateful night, a compelling theory that may just make you blush.
We are also treated to an in-depth insight into Catherine’s life in between her marriages. It is often overlooked that this span of time was eight years, that is almost a decade of character growth which is often disregarded in other books on the subject. It is these insights into the lesser-known minutiae of the queen’s life that make Licence’s book a worthwhile purchase. In fact, I’d argue it’s a necessity for anyone who wishes to study, or gain greater knowledge, of the first half of the Tudor century of rule.
As expected perhaps from the leading Tudor historian on female matters, this book is sympathetic and understanding of its subject, but that’s not to say in a biased or predisposed way. Licence comes to her conclusions about Katherine through sheer research of her character, her influences and her actions, and puts forward a compelling case of a pious and courageous woman who only sought to serve her god, and serve her husband, in the manner she thought best. This is a compassionate and positive portrayal of Catherine, but that is only because it is the least the woman deserves.
Quite simply, there doesn’t appear to be anything more said on the subject of Catherine of Aragon, that what Amy Licence has covered in her colossal biography."
Nathen Amin, author of "Tudor Wales."
"Catherine of Aragon, an Intimate Life of Henry VIII’s True Wife by Amy Licence is one of those incredible books that you can’t get away from. Days after you’ve finished it, your mind is still pondering the twists and turns in the incredible story that has unfolded before you. And yet, this is not a gripping novel, it’s a biography … a real-life story of one of England’s most famous queens, told in an expert, accessible fashion by one of today’s most prominent historians of women’s history.
The level of detail in this book is incredible, Amy Licence has looked into every corner of Catherine’s life-story. It paints a wonderful, vivid picture of the life of a Renaissance princess. From even before her earliest years, the author charts Catherine’s life in its entirety, giving us a complete picture of the world that surrounded the young princess from the moment she was born to the moment of her death.
Not only does the author retell the events of the life of Catherine of Aragon, chronologically, but she also highlights the influences that affected her decisions and actions throughout that life. From her parents and the reconquest of Spain, through her marriage to Arthur and the lonely years following Arthur’s death, we see the events that influenced and shaped Catherine’s life as Queen of England and wife of Henry VIII.
Catherine of Aragon, an Intimate Life of Henry VIII’s True Wife discusses the personalities and character of those who had a major effect on Catherine’s life, giving us an unprecedented, detailed view of those who surrounded her at various stages in her career as princess and queen. Catherine’s marriage to Prince Arthur is thoroughly examined, giving an insight into the relationship of this young couple, a relationship that would eventually change the course of English history. We see the good and bad of the men who were to decide Catherine’s fate, in her father, Ferdinand, and father-in-law, Henry VII, and learn of Catherine’s struggles to stay positive in the face of the two kings trying to get the best deal for themselves in Catherine’s marriage. And we see an intriguing biography of Henry VIII as he grows from being Catherine’s saviour and a magnificent Renaissance prince, to being her jailer and tormentor.
Amy Licence places Catherine’s life firmly within the Europe of the time, displaying a brilliant understanding of the Reformation, and its progress from central Europe to Henry’s court. Moreover, despite the eventual failure of the marriage, Amy Licence paints a glittering picture of the court of Henry and Catherine at its height, when this young, formidable couple were the superstars of Europe.
The most revealing part of the book is in the character of Catherine herself. The author has researched every aspect of Catherine’s life and personality, providing a portrait of a formidable woman navigating her way through a male-dominated world while trying to hold true to her deeply ingrained Catholic principles. And with this comes the realisation that it must have taken an inordinate amount of personal courage to face down Henry and his demands, and the overriding fear for her own personal safety.
Of course, the latter part of the book focuses on the divorce. I am no great fan of Catherine of Aragon and have often wondered at her stubbornness and why she was so unmovable in the face of Henry’s desperate need for an heir. Amy Licence explains Catherine’s viewpoint with absolute clarity; the reasons she stuck to her guns at the risk of her own safety and that of her daughter. The author’s theories and arguments are well though-out and incisive, giving an unprecedented insight into the mind of this amazing queen and evoking empathy in the least sympathetic of readers, I’m sure.
I have no doubt that Catherine of Aragon, an Intimate Life of Henry VIII’s True Wife will be seen as the definitive biography of Catherine of Aragon. It is an impressive, essential complement to any Tudor library."
Sharon Bennett Connolly, author, blogger and reviewer.