Maid of the King’s Court

The novel is a satisfying blend of fact and artistic liberty: the women's duties as maids of the court are drawn from history, but Katherine's illicit lover is an amalgam of her two real-life lovers. The retention of British spellings and the inclusion of lesser-known customs of the period add further authenticity. Exhilarating, romantic, and illuminating; has the potential to turn casual readers into Tudor history buffs.—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)A thrilling read that is sure to have readers running to a history book, eager to learn more about the facts behind the story.—BooklistThe dialogue-heavy prose and the courtly intrigues make this historical novel a riveting page-turner…this title will enhance larger collections where historical fiction is in demand.—School Library JournalHistorian Worsley successfully transports readers into the sixteenth-century world of the wealthy in her debut fiction novel with detailed descriptions of trysts, monthly baths, bowling competitions, and colorful performances of the “Dance of the Gentle Fawn.”—VOYAWorsley’s accessible prose, headstrong heroine, and sense of romance may remind readers of Shannon Hale’s work. Eliza’s wit and many courtly adventures make her an engaging companion as she transforms from a naïve girl who describes the king as having “exchanged” Anne Boleyn for a new wife to one intimately involved in the machinations of the court.—Publishers Weekly OnlineFictional and historical figures and events are woven together seamlessly in Worsley's tale, which challenges readers to reimagine the lives of courtiers and two of Henry's wives, Anne and Katherine, through the eyes of the fictional Elizabeth…Every bit as captivating as Katherine herself, Maid of the King's Court is not to be missed.—Shelf Awareness for ReadersThis book is well written and leaves readers anticipating the events of the next chapter.—School Library Connection