Hilda Lewis's "Mary the Queen" offers a compelling historical novel centered on Mary I of England, often known as "Bloody Mary." This uncorrected proof copy from 1973 delves into the tumultuous life of the first reigning Queen of England, from her challenging childhood as the daughter of Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon, through her struggles for legitimacy and her eventual ascent to the throne.
The book explores Mary's unwavering Catholic faith, her complex relationships, and the political and religious upheavals that defined her reign. Lewis aims to provide a nuanced portrayal of a monarch often demonized by history, revealing the personal motivations and pressures that shaped her decisions. It's a vivid narrative that seeks to understand the woman behind the controversial historical figure.