Secrets of the Tudor Court: By Royal Decree

Young Elizabeth "Bess" Brooke is fearful that she may catch the eye of King Henry VIII and become his next wife, so she removes herself from court, just until King Henry remarries.

While back at home, Bess meets Will Parr. Will informs Bess and her family that the King has shown interest in his sister, Kathryn. This excites Bess as the King promised her that she could be one of the maids of honor for his next Queen.

King Henry does end up marrying Kathryn. Bess returns to court. Bess and Will start up a relationship with each other. Will is still married to Anne Bourchier, even though they have been separated for a long time. Bess hopes to convince Queen Kathryn to allow her to marry Will, as the only way Will and Bess can be married is by royal decree.

Secrets of the Tudor Court: By Royal Decree is the third Secrets of the Tudor Court book. This book can be read as a standalone novel. I knew nothing about Bess Brooke, so it was nice that this book focused on something different in history then the most obvious people. I thought Bess was very outspoken, which I liked but this also could have been her downfall back during this time period. It was also great to really get to know Will Parr. Will and Bess's relationship was almost like Romeo and Juliet's. They were in love but they could not be together unless it was willed.

Ms. Emerson tries to stay as true to facts as she can, though some parts of the book are fictional. All the characters are real people. I thought that Ms. Emerson did a fine job with this book. Secrets of the Tudor Court: By Royal Decree is worthy of a king.

Courtesy of Fallen Angel Reviews