Title: Innocent Traitor
Author: Alison Weir
First published January 1, 2006
402 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780345494856 (ISBN10: 0345494857)
Rating: 3.97
Overview
Experience the turbulent and treacherous world of the Tudor monarchy through the eyes of Lady Jane Grey, the “Nine Days’ Queen.” In Alison Weir’s historical fiction debut, Innocent Traitor, readers are taken on a journey through one of the most significant periods of English history. Born into a family of schemers and pawns, Jane Grey finds herself at the center of a deadly game for the throne.
With political machinations and religious fervor fueling the fight for supremacy, Jane is forced to accept the crown, setting off a chain of events that will lead to tragedy and betrayal. Weir’s masterful storytelling brings to life the many dynamic characters of this majestic drama, including Jane’s devious parents, her much-loved nanny, and the future queen Elizabeth.
With an excerpt from Weir’s Mary Boleyn included, Innocent Traitor is a must-read for Tudor history buffs and fiction lovers alike.
About the Author
Meet Alison Weir, an accomplished British writer who specializes in creating engaging history books for general readers. Her works mainly focus on biographies of British monarchs and historical fiction.
But before making a name in the literary world, she dedicated her time as a special needs teacher. Alison Weir gained extensive knowledge in history during her teacher training college days.
Today, she resides in Surrey, England, with her two beloved children.
Editoral Review
Innocent Traitor by Alison Weir is a historical fiction novel that delves into the treacherous world of the Tudors, exploring the life and tragic end of Lady Jane Grey, the nine-day queen of England. Weir is a renowned historian and author, known for her extensive research and expertise on the Tudor period, making Innocent Traitor a thrilling and authentic historical read.
The novel begins with an introduction to Lady Jane Grey, a highly intelligent and devout Protestant whose life is intertwined with the political schemes of her powerful family. Despite her reluctance, she is forced to marry Lord Guildford Dudley, the son of the notoriously ambitious Duke of Northumberland, and is subsequently proclaimed queen after the death of King Edward VI.
However, Jane’s rule is short-lived as members of the Tudor family and their supporters plot against her, resulting in her tragic demise at the young age of sixteen. Weir’s detailed and vivid descriptions of the Tudor court and society transport the reader back in time, immersing them in the political intrigue, religious tensions, and moral dilemmas of the era.
The characters are well-crafted, with Lady Jane Grey being the standout figure. She is portrayed as a sympathetic and complex protagonist, struggling to reconcile her duty to her family and faith with her desire for freedom and happiness.
One of the strengths of the novel is its exploration of the conflicting ideologies and power struggles within the Tudor dynasty, providing an insightful commentary on the nature of politics and morality. Weir’s extensive research is evident in the novel, with the events and characteristics of the characters based on historical records and documents.
However, the novel does suffer from pacing issues, with some sections feeling slow and overly detailed. Additionally, some readers may find the overwhelming amount of historical information and references tiring and difficult to follow.
Overall, Innocent Traitor is a well-written and engrossing read, providing a fascinating glimpse into the turbulent world of the Tudors. Readers who enjoy historical fiction and are interested in the Tudor period will undoubtedly find this book a worthwhile addition to their shelves.
I would give this book a 4 out of 5 rating, based on its historical accuracy, character development, and storytelling.