About me, the book and the telling of the story

My Work

In telling this fictional version of the story of Lady Jane Grey I have adhered to the facts where they are known and documented although I have used dramatic licence and put names and faces to some time reports unknown eye witness accounts; for example the boy at ‘Jane’s’ execution.

The manner in which I portrayed Queen Mary was a dilemma. "Bloody Mary" as she has been known as doesn’t leave much for the imagination. However, rather than simply take the traditional view I decided to look a little deeper into her actions and behaviour before and subsequent to the events instigated by the Duke of Northumberland, John Dudley and how she initially treated him despite the fact he attempted to usurp her claim to the throne. I wanted to form an opinion of the women and see if it really was in her nature to act in the manner I have portrayed in this version of events.

Fact or Fiction?

I have had the benefit of being able to quote from contemporary documents and letters which are determined as genuine although I have sometimes used them out of context, for example the letter Jane wrote to her sister Katherine.

"This has to be one of the best books I've read all year"

About me, the book and the telling of the story

My Work

Fact or Fiction?

"This has to be one of the best books
I've read all year"