Margaret Tudor: The Life of Henry VIII’s Sister by Melanie Clegg Book Review

Margaret Tudor was born on 28 November 1489 as the eldest daughter of Henry VII of England and Elizabeth of York. Early in her life, her future marriage was already being discussed. On 24 January 1502 Scotland and England concluded the Treaty of Perpetual Peace, which included the marriage between Margaret and James IV of Scotland. The Treaty of Perpetual Peace did not live up to its name. James IV died at the Battle of Flodden on 9 September 1513 fighting the English, leaving Margaret a pregnant widow. Margaret became her son’s regent but her choice of a second husband did not receive a warm welcome and she was never truly trusted again.

Melanie Clegg’s book Margaret Tudor: The Life of Henry VIII’s Sister is the latest to be released about King Henry VIII’s enigmatic sister. Other books about her include Margaret Tudor: Queen of Scots by Sarah-Beth Watkins and Sisters to the King by Maria Perry Book Review, both from recent years. I really enjoyed Melanie’s book. She is clear, precise and factual without it becoming boring. The situation in Scotland was quite confusing at that time and luckily there is no confusion in the book. I would highly recommend this book if you’re interested in the Tudor era.

Margaret Tudor: The Life of Henry VIII’s Sister by Melanie Clegg is available now in both the UK and the US.