347 pages, 16 pages of plates : 20 cm

A biography of "the earliest known and longest lasting mistress of Henry VIII. Bessie Blount was the king's first love. More beautiful than Anne Boleyn or any of Henry's other wives or concubines, Bessie's beauty and other charms ensured that she turned heads, winning a place at court as one of Catherine of Aragon's ladies. The affair lasted five years (longer than most of Henry's marriages) and in 1519, she bore Henry VIII a son, Henry Fitzroy"--Amazon.com

Includes bibliographical references (pages 331-343)

Genealogical tables -- Part 1 : Bessie Blount of Kinlet, c.1498-1512. The Blounts of Kinlet -- Bessie's parents -- Bessie Blount of Kinlet -- Bessie's childhood -- Part 2 : Bessie Blount, the king's mistress, 1512-1522. Maid of honour to the queen -- Court life -- Court pageantry -- Bessie's literary interests -- The king's mistress -- Mother of the king's son -- Mother of the king's daughter? -- Part 3 : Lady Tailboys of South Kyme, 1522-1530. First marriage -- Married life -- Henry Fitzroy, Duke of Richmond & Somerset -- Henry Fitzroy in the North -- Family marriages & family disputes -- Part 4 : Bessie the widow & Bessie the wife, 1530-c.1539. The king's great matter -- Lady Clinton -- Bessie's three sons -- The death of Bessie Blount

plus-circle Add Review

comment

Reviews