The first biography of Lettice Knollys, one of the most prominent women of the Elizabethan era, also examines the relationship between Elizabeth and Lettice's husband, Robert Dudley, 1st Earl of Leicester, within the context of his third marriage.

‘Nicola Tallis brings us into a complex, compelling world, suffused with intrigue, betrayal, love and heartbreak.’
History Today

‘A fascinating insight both into Lettice herself and into the wider stories and life of the age.’
Spectator

‘Beautiful and thought-provoking.’
All About History

FAVOURITE. FOE. RIVAL.

On a September morning in 1578, Lettice Knollys took her wedding vows in a clandestine ceremony. Secrecy was critical, as Lettice was Elizabeth I’s own kinswoman and her intended, none other than the Queen’s favourite and suitor, Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester. For Lettice, it would be her downfall.

Born into a prestigious family – she was very likely also Henry VIII’s illegitimate granddaughter – Lettice lived a life of dizzying highs and pitiful lows. Surviving to the astonishing age of ninety-one, Lettice saw those closest to her at the very heart of events that defined the Tudor age, including the religious turmoil, plots and intrigues of Mary, Queen of Scots, attempted coups and bloody Irish conflicts, among others.

In the first ever biography of this extraordinary woman, Nicola Tallis introduces us to the very last of the great Elizabethans.