Crown of Thistles: The Fatal Inheritance of Mary Queen of Scots - Hardcover

' ... coolly crafting the authentic story of how Mary, Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I came to be, rather than simply who they were. This is Porter's unique selling point in a crowded field ... Her writing is bold, insightful and vivid.' The Times Saturday Review

'In focusing on the family rivalries that led to Mary's reign and fall, Porter has found a fresh approach to a familiar subject.' Mail on Sunday

'... the book is elegantly written, decently researched and, crucially will alert a new readership to a neglected subject.' The Herald

'... Crown of Thistles is to be applauded as a highly courageous, pioneering attempt to brush the cobwebs off the existing national histories. Linda Porter has a considerable talent for synthesis and in this genre she is likely to excel in the future. Always professional in conception and dispassionate in style, her book deserves a wide readership.' Literary Review

'This gripping account has as many over-lapping branches as a monkey-puzzle tree, but as she weaves those warring kingdom's affairs the author maintains a firm grasp ... The jacket blurb promised rape and violence, and the latter is delivered with regularity. But this many-layered book offers much more, including fresh insights into Mary's downfall, especially the parts played by James V's discarded mistress.' Country Life

'Mary's life was rich in incident and Linda Porter recounts it with judiciousness and verve.' --New Statesman