Katharine The Virgin Widow by Jean Plaidy.

Author: Jean Plaidy
ISBN: 0-09-949314-4
Genre:Historical Fiction.
Pages:310
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Arrow


"Widowed within months of her marriage to the frail Prince of Wales, Arthur Tudor, Katharine of Aragon's virginity is the subject of much speculation. A pawn between the Spanish and English monarchies, the question of whether her marriage to the Prince was ever consummated decides both her fate, and England's. Her life has become a far cry from what she knew as an Infanta of Spain and Princess of Wales. But in the wings awaits Henry, Arthur's younger, more handsome brother, the future King of England and her only escape from poverty. He alone has the power to restore her position, but at what sacrifice?"

I had wanted this book for ages, and so when I got it I was thrilled! Queen Katherine of Aragon was my favourite Queen of the Tudors. I've only ever read one other book of Jean Plaidy's Saint Thomas's Eve. I think I'm coming to a decision that Jean Plaidy isn't one of my favourite authors, as although I enjoyed this novel for the historical content. I didn't connect with any of the characters, and I didn't feel a part of the book. I just didn't get a sense of the surroundings or any emotion. I also didn't like the fact that Katharine's marriage with Arthur was rushed, whereas with Philippa Gregory's The Constant Princess, Philippa turned it into a beautiful love story, and I loved that.

I wanted a little bit more of detail in Jean Plaidy's book, but I felt like she was skimming through it, and not delving deep into the character and bringing them alive.
It's been mentioned to me before that Jean Plaidy's books are more like History lessons, and I have to agree. Some people love her books, but for me I much prefer Philippa Gregory, as I feel Philippa brings her characters alive. I'm not saying Jean Plaidy was a rubbish writer, just that her books aren't for me.

My rating, OK if you want a book that isn't exciting but, you want to read for the historical facts.

Saint Thomas's Eve by Jean Plaidy.

Author: Jean Plaidy
ISBN: 0-09-949323-3
Genre: Historical Fiction
Publisher: arrow books

"Henry VII once warned his son, the future King of England, not to trust Thomas More; years later that same son made More his confidante and advisor. But the allegiance is dangerously one-sided. A family man, lawyer and writer, More's ambitions are humble, whilst Henry's are endless. As More's career at court rises so too does his religious fervour, much to the concern of his eldest daughter, Meg. Torn between her heretic husband and the secrets her father has confided in her, it is only a matter of time before her More will make the ultimate sacrifice for"

I borrowed this book from my sister after she read it and had really enjoyed it. Being a fan of historical fiction, I was eager to read this, as I hadn't read anything by this author before.
It took me a little while to get into the story, as it didn't seem that much was happening. But once I got to half way through the book, it began to pick up and I found myself enjoying it.

I liked reading about St Thomas More's relationship with his family, and his closeness to his eldest daughter Margaret. How they cherished him, and how Margaret wished for him to be home with them, instead of at Court.
What I liked about this book is, instead of giving you an insight into the world of Court life, you was given an insight into the life of Sir Thomas More.

Overall, I did enjoy this book, it's not my favourite Tudor novel, but I am pleased I read it, and I would read more from this author.