This concise biography of Margaret Tudor (eldest daughter of Henry VII and Elizabeth of York) is a welcome addition to the ranks of books about the Tudors. Margaret, a Tudor Princess and later a Scottish Queen, has been overlooked, even though it was her great-grandson who inherited the throne from Elizabeth I.
Watkins goes some way to addressing this oversight in this fast-paced look at Margaret’s complex life. Balancing the role of Queen of Scots (and later Dowager Queen) and English princess, was a difficult one, especially once Margaret’s younger brother came to the throne as Henry VIII.
Through extensive use of Margaret’s letters, Watkins gives Margaret her voice and clearly illustrates the difficulties Margaret had in appeasing the Scots and her brother. What is particularly poignant is the lack of support she received from the latter.
It is a great starting point for anyone wanting to learn more about this overlooked sister of Henry VIII.
Thank you to Chronos Books for my review copy.
