Eliza Rose

"Eliza Rose" is a historical novel for young adults and follows Eliza Rose, a fictional cousin of Katherine Howard, the fifth wife of Henry VIII. This book spans about seven years and tells the story of Eliza's teen years from age 12 to age 19. Eliza is a rather bold and outspoken girl for her time and after a failed betrothal gets sent to a distant relative to be taught how to be a lady. Later, she becomes a maid of honour at the Tudor court, which is as glamorous as it is dangerous. I have been fascinated with Henry VIII and his six wives ever since I first learned about them in school and was intrigued by this book the moment I first saw it. I like that it is told from the perspective of a young girl and not only explains the struggles of the 16th century, but also a rather interesting part of royal history in a way that is easily understandable and relatable to a younger audience. I highly recommend this book to teens who are interested in history, specifically the Tudor era. Lucy Worsley has also written two more YA novels which follow Bloody Mary and Queen Victoria I, respectively.