This sensational collection of three historical romances shows us that even for the well-to-do, love was not easy during Tudor times. Blythe Gifford begins TUDOR CHRISTMAS TIDINGS with "Christmas at Court," in which Sir John Talbot and Lady Alice, daughter of the Earl of Oakshire, form a secret betrothal. Their hope to marry depends on politicking, rivalry, and armed insurrection. Richard III is king, and two young princes who came into his care have never been seen again. The Wars of the Roses are not going to be settled until Henry Tudor, currently in France, claims the throne. The families of the two young people tread dangerous paths.

"Secrets of the Queen’s Lady," by Jenni Fletcher, tells how Lady Philippa, widowed lady-in-waiting to Anne of Cleves after her divorce, meets a handsome diplomat. Sir Christopher Lowell is a few years younger than her and his older brother intends to have him wed a landowner’s lass, but at Richmond Palace’s festivities and then Hampton Court with the full merriment of the King’s company, the two form a strong attachment--if only Philippa could overcome the bad memories of marriage. A gorgeous touch is that Anne introduces a decorated fir tree to her hall.   

"His Mistletoe Lady" by Amanda McCabe is the third book, casting a unique sidelight on the era. Catherine, a half-Spanish lady called Catalina by her mother, seeks help from a mysterious Spaniard Don Diego to free her father from the Tower of London. Christmas at Whitehall Palace is merry and mischievous in this story, unlike the first, more sober story, which revolved around an earlier time of pious ceremony; while in the second people had to abide by convention, except of course when it came to the king wanting to marry whichever lovely courtier had caught his eye. The long-running Tudor saga is notorious for larger than life historical figures, and our romance characters fit in with and act around them, always in danger of being shoved aside if they lose favour. We learn of customs like hanging green boughs, and the feast of a boar’s head roasted, with an apple in its mouth.  

TUDOR CHRISTMAS TIDINGS is enough to satisfy the demands of those who love historical romances and even the pickiest of historians. Anyone finding this volume in her stocking will enjoy a satisfying Yuletide read of contrasts and couples, dances, and despots. Talk about entertainment.

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