I love anything to with the British monarchy, tell me Tudors and I'm in. Though Elizabeth has always been shadowed for me in contrast to her legendary father and his wives, I have always found her intriguing so I was looking forward to the book.

The story is well-written and certainly gives us a look into Elizabeth's mind, manner and her court. At times, I really felt like I was there and involved in all the back-and-forth marriage rumours, jealousy and spats. But I really felt like there was so many times the book seemed to be going in a circle.

"Yes, Robert, I'll marry you!"

"When Bess?"

"Not right now My Eyes, I need to keep the French sweet." X250 times.

After a few chapters of the same thing, it got a bit dreary. It's the only bit that let the book down, as I enjoyed the going-on's in Elizabeth;s court as well and her dalliance with the Duke and her teasing of the Emperor and of course, her tortures over Queen Mary. I think I may prefer Weir's non-fiction books as they are truly impressive!