The Private Lives of the Tudors: Uncovering the Secrets of Britain's Greatest Dynasty

Borman (joint chief curator, Historic Royal Palaces; Thomas Cromwell: The Untold Story of Henry VIII's Most Faithful Servant) chronicles one of the most memorable periods in British history: the years from the accession of Henry VII in 1485 to the unexpected reign of Elizabeth I, beginning in 1558, after the death of Mary, Queen of Scots. Using extensive contemporary and modern sources, the author artfully crafts a thorough reimagining of life at the Tudor court, while also providing a look at the humanity of these larger-than-life figures. Readers may find certain details too exhaustive, but these pale in comparison to the drama and intrigue featured heavily throughout the book. While there are many volumes dedicated to the Tudor dynasty and the players involved, such as Peter Ackroyd's Tudors: The History of England from Henry VIII to Elizabeth I, this work uniquely focuses on the minutiae of court life and the personal, behind-the-scenes details of Tudor royals.