The sixth wife of Henry VIII was also the most married queen of England, outliving three husbands before finally marrying for love. Catherine Parr was enjoying her freedom after her first two arranged marriages when she caught the attention of the elderly Henry VIII.

She was the most reluctant of all Henrys wives, offering to become his mistress rather than submit herself to the dangers of becoming Henrys queen. This only served to increase Henrys enthusiasm for the young widow and Catherine was forced to abandon her lover for the decrepit king.

Catherine Parr is often portrayed as a matronly and dutiful figure. Her life was indeed one of duty but, throughout, she attempted to escape her destiny and find happiness for herself. Ultimately, Catherine was betrayed and her great love affair with Thomas Seymour turned sour.

Includes 22 black and white and 39 colour illustrations.