There are countless books on Tudor England and Elizabeth I in particular. Most are based upon detailed and exhaustive research of primary sources. So, it is refreshing to finally read a primary source! Many of the letters so many authors have used as source material in their books about the Virgin Queen appear here. There's little doubt that Elizabeth was well educated and highly intelligent. Now, readers ready and willing to dive into medieval letters, in the formal language of the time, will be rewarded by the ability to form their own opinion about whether this woman was politically savvy, or a political pawn. Though not easy to read, well worth the effort for fans of the time/queen.

You be the judge--no, really :-) ( )