Library Journal Review

George's (The Autobiography of Henry VIII; www.margaretgeorge.com) latest novel, rife with colorful period detail and real-life historical figures, portrays the waning years of Elizabeth I's reign through the intertwined first-person narratives of Elizabeth herself and her cousin and rival, Lettice Knollys. Little-known facts are brought to light such as Philip II of Spain's repeated attempts to send armadas to attack England in the 1590s. An afterword includes historical background and a bibliography. Actress/narrator Kate Reading brings an understated irony and touch of class to the mature Elizabeth; she is not as successful at conveying Lettice's scheming. Perhaps a separate narrator for each role would have proved more effective in dramatizing this tale. Recommended for lovers of Tudor history, fictional memoirs, and English fiction. ["This is a book that would be treasured by history buffs but may try the patience of casual readers," read the review of the Viking hc, LJ 2/1/11.-Ed.]-David Faucheux, Louisiana Audio Information & Reading Svc., Lafayette (c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.