England and France during the Reigns of Henry VII and Henry VIII

Mary Tudor was the younger sister of Henry VIII, and his favorite sibling. She had been raised by her royal parents to know that someday she would become the bride of a member of an influential European family. Henry, too, knew that marriage among the royals was all about dynasty and politics. After his father's death, and against his wishes, Henry married Katherine of Aragon, his late brother's widow, because he loved her and wanted her. When it came time for Mary's betrothal, however, it was all about what she could bring to England's wants and needs. Mary didn't argue, yet she was always aware that she was a bargaining chip in world politics. Her heart didn't factor into anything. Until it did.

As a carefree royal princess in the court of the newly crowned Henry VIII, Mary relished the opportunity to enjoy herself while she was able to. Her brother's immediate friends became her friends, although she kept clear of the romantic aspects. At first, Henry's closest friend, Charles Brandon, simply annoyed her. She knew of his conquests, of his marriages, and that he was but a poor courtier hoping for a rich wife. The closer Mary got to her arranged marriage, though, the more she grew to enjoy Brandon's company. As he moved up the ladder of power in Henry's court, Mary confided in him more about her future. As she prepared to depart for her new life, she wanted Henry to make her a promise. Will he keep it?

Mary Tudor's story is similar to many royal women in that her future lay in what treaties or agreements could be made to benefit her country. Although Henry dearly loved his younger sister, he did not hesitate to use her royal bloodlines for the benefit of England. Brandon was also pragmatic about marriage -- using it as a stepping stone to power and wealth. The couple's love for one another is well-known in history. THE SECRET BRIDE is impeccably researched, and the author brings the characters to life in a very realistic way. Mary grows from an impressionable child to a competent, well-spoken woman who possesses great charm, beauty, and honesty.

THE SECRET BRIDE is an enjoyable, well-written book about one of history's true love stories.

Jani Brooks