Description: The New York Times bestselling author of Mistress Shakespeare delivers the epic tale of Elizabeth I's most trusted companion--a commoner who lived among royals....
Katherine Ashley, the clever, beguiling daughter of a poor country beekeeper, catches the attention of powerful, ambitious Thomas Cromwell--henchman for King Henry VIII. Cromwell secures for Kat a place in the royal court, but as a reluctant spy. Plunged into a treacherous game of shifting alliances, Kat is entrusted by Anne Boleyn to protect her daughter, Elizabeth. In the face of exile, assassination attempts, imprisonment, and a romantic flirtation that could cost the young princess dearly, Kat will risk everything--even her own secret love--for her bright, clever Elizabeth.Review Quotes: Praise for the Historical Novels of Karen Harper
"As good as the best of Philippa Gregory."--Library Journal "An excellent read...will, without a doubt, become a classic of Tudor-era historical fiction."--Writing the Renaissance"Intoxicating...a romantic roller coaster rich with vivid details."--Women's Day "The book is vivid, believable and the characters are so alive...You'll read it cover to cover in a weekend and then order more Karen Harper books!"--theanneboleynfiles.com "A page-turner, a fascinating summation of the intriguing life and times of Elizabeth I, from Henry VIII's pursuit of Anne Boleyn and his divorce of Catherine of Aragon, through the death of Edward VI and Elizabeth's coronation."--Read All Day