The Sisters Who Would Be Queen (2009) - Plot & Excerpts
While this book does give some interesting information about the Grey sisters it doesn't really portray the sisters as being as capable as the summary would have you believe. The information about Mary and Katherine was new as I didn't realize Jane had sisters, nor had I ever heard anything of their stories and it was an educational look into Tudor England. However, far from being independent and capable women, the book perpetuates the idea of Lady Jane Grey as a victim of her male dominated society, as it also portrays her sisters. If you enjoy history you will likely enjoy the book. For those who slept through history class you may find the book on the dry and boring side. A interesting and well- researched account of the lives of the three Grey sisters. Leanda de Lisle untangles the strands of political and dynastic relationships to show how the happiness of Jane Grey and her sisters was blighted by the need to provide stability for the English state.An absorbing book that destroys many of the myths surrounding the fate of Jane Grey, and shows the tragic fate of her sisters as their hopes of happiness and family life are subjugated to Elizabeth's need to protect her position and eliminate rivals. De Lisle avoids sentimentality by clearly putting the actions of Queen and nobility into the context of the time. This is a well-written and readable account, backed up by informative notes and references.
What do You think about The Sisters Who Would Be Queen (2009)?
This book made me fall in love with the Grey sisters. All so tragic.
—ObesePlant
Loved it- even this Lady Jane Grey geek learnt some new things.
—Janissa23
Absolutely tragic. Very well written historical narrative.
—bob
