Coming Soon: John Dudley Book

I am happy to say that I am almost finished with writing my biography of John Dudley, Duke of Northumberland, Robert Dudley’s somewhat notorious father.

John Dudley: The Life of Lady Jane Grey’s Father-in-Law

will be available from amazon in early February 2016.

Now, what can readers expect? I’ve chosen a narrative approach, such as usually enjoyed by the “general reader” or Tudor enthusiast (like myself). I also discuss some of the questions discussed on this blog in the last few years, though, as well as many additional topics. Many of John’s very interesting contemporaries and friends also feature prominently, such as William Parr, Thomas Wriothesley, and Edward Seymour, Duke of Somerset; but also ambassadors and other Dudleys, like John’s brother Andrew, his wife Jane, and his children, especially his sons John, Guildford, and Robert. For example, if you do want to know why John Dudley’s daughter Mary married the courtier Henry Sidney when she did you should read my book 🙂

Just watch this space if you are interested! Thank you!

Blurb:

John Dudley, Duke of Northumberland  (1504–1553), one of the most notorious figures of Tudor England, is best known as the father-in-law of Lady Jane Grey, whom he helped to place on the English throne for nine days. However, he was also a courtier and diplomat, a general and de facto regent, as well as a patron of art and exploration and a devoted family man; and in the past decades his image has undergone significant changes from villain to talented statesman. The father of Queen Elizabeth’s friend Robert Dudley and grandfather of the poet Philip Sidney led a colourful life at the courts of Henry VIII and Edward VI which is vividly retold in this fully documented biography.