Leo T. reviewed on 4/24/2019 + 1775 more book reviews

Most excellent scholarship and admittedly a lucky break for Professor Fox when she found a figure from Henry VIII's reign that has not been written about many times, i.e. a well-plowed field. I myself was surprised that there is so much documentary evidence available, given how the Paxton Letters from the previous century are so vital given the limited remaining evidence.
The author rooted out a bit of previously ignored information and consulted many archives. It is well written but she is at her best, in my opinion, when she offers a surmised explanation and is always careful to give her reasons for reaching that conclusion. She is well in tune with the difficulties that a gentlewoman had in making her way in the world (as a widow without children securing her jointure and marriage settlement, remaining at court, etc.) and shares her knowledge of life at court and attire. The latter is aided by the inventory of possessions seized by the crown from those people that were executed. Note her evaluation of Cromwell's help to Lady Rochford.
Sample: "Henry did not welcome Mary back with open arms, all memories of her disobedience instantly erased. Before that happened, she would be forced to recognize the invalidity of her mother's marriage and her own illegitimacy. Rumors of the pressure that was placed on her would have reached Jane's ears."
Several plates, a few footnotes, bibliography, short essays on each chapters' sources in the endnotes, and index.

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