Three Maids for a Crown

by Ella March Chase

This is a book I kind of randomly picked from the new books section at the library. I enjoyed it a lot more than I expected. I have read a lot of historical novels about the Tudors. My first interest was Nora Lofts Books - I devoured them! Then, I discovered the Philippa Gregory novels - I have read every one. So, I felt a little snobbish starting this one, but I was surprised when it really kept my interest.

This was the story of THE GREY SISTERS, Jane Grey, Katherine Grey, and Mary Grey. They each spent some time in the TOWER, for different reasons, and different outcomes. It really focused on the intrigue and drama of life as one of the ladies of the queen. The author really brought these three women to life with her writing. I always enjoy it when a book includes at the end the "real" history and where they may have strayed from the truth in the novel. Entertaining. I might look for her other book: The Virgin Queen's Daughter.

What I want to know is why do these kind of novels always picture women in lovely gowns, with the tops of their heads cut off? Does it indicate a genre or just a lack of imagination?