Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

I really didn't know anything about Mary Tudor, Henry's sister so this was a great read for more. It had that element that I was looking for and thought everything worked as a nonfiction book. Amy McElroy has a strong writing style and had that historical element that I was looking for.

NetGalley, Kathryn McLeer

Amy McElroy's "Mary Tudor" offers an accessible introduction to one of England's notable monarchs. As someone with only passing knowledge of Mary Tudor from European travels, I found this biography enlightening and well-structured. The book effectively balances historical detail with engaging narrative, providing valuable insights into both royal life and the broader context of 16th-century England.

While I can't compare it to other works on Mary Tudor, this biography succeeds in making the era and its key figure accessible to general readers. The author skillfully weaves political history creating an informative read for those interested in English history.

NetGalley, Masala LaVita

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Amy McElroy stood out right off the bat by expressing her gratitude in the Acknowledgments as the first section of the book. It allowed me to appreciate the community of contributors and support it took to collect and assemble the story of Mary Tudor. It was refreshing for Mary Tudor to have the spotlight pointed directly at her.

Amy wrote the book in a very digestible manner that anyone can pick up and process the evolution of Mary Tudor. The tone of the writing was a far cry from the stereotypical stale and stiff historical timelines. There was a vivid picture painted of lineage of Mary’s ancestors and her own life. A friendly read that can intrigue those ranging from history intimidated to buffs.

This book includes a visual of her family tree, portraits and photos of core locations.

I think this book would make a great reference source for university classes, research papers and history minors or majors to have on deck.

NetGalley, Whitney D

At 4.5 stars, this is a must-read for Tudor enthusiasts and anyone fascinated by royal women who dared to live on their own terms. Mary Tudor’s life is often overshadowed by the dramas of Henry’s wives, but McElroy ensures that readers will see her not just as an accessory to Henry’s legacy, but as a complex, courageous figure in her own right—equal parts princess, queen, rebel, and survivor.

NetGalley, Chelsea Dugan

This is a very good book. It is full of facts and interesting tidbits. The book is easy to understand and is easily comprehensible for any readers. I enjoyed it very much having not read much about Mary.

NetGalley, Joyce Fox

I enjoyed reading this in depth look at the sister of King Henry VIII.

Most of what is known of Mary Tudor involves her romance and marriage to Charles Brandon, Henry’s best friend. This well researched biography gives a glimpse into Tudor life drawing on historical writings.
All the workings of the court, dowries ,clothes, jewels, marriages, births, deaths are all discussed.
Fascinating!

NetGalley, Debbie Hignett

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

I so enjoyed reading about Mary Tudor - she has so often been a character in other Tudor history books I have read, both factual and fictional, but has always been on the periphery. With Amy McElroy’s wonderful book she is now taking centre stage and the result is an engrossing and enthralling study of this fascinating woman. From Princess to Queen to Duchess and her roles as daughter, sister, wife and mother Mary takes the spotlight in this excellent book. I would not hesitate to recommend Amy McElroy’s latest work.

NetGalley, Nicola Hall