Lauren Johnson in conversation with Dr. Joanne Paul

About the book

Lauren will be joined in conversation by fellow historian, Dr. Joanne Paul, promising a lively and insightful discussion that ranges across power, politics, and personality in the Tudor world. Expect fresh perspectives, fascinating historical detail, and plenty of expert sparring as the two historians dig into one of the most influential (and often underestimated) figures of the period.

After the talk, there will be the opportunity to purchase copies of the book and have them signed by the authors. Whether you’re a devoted Tudor enthusiast or simply love great historical storytelling, this is an evening not to be missed.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Survivor. Rebel. Conspirator. Mother and grandmother of kings. Margaret Beaufort was one of the most remarkable and influential women of the Middle Ages.

Margaret was born into a century of conflict. The daughter of the Duke of Somerset and a descendant of Edward III, she was married at twelve; a mother, orphan and widow at thirteen. She rode the vicissitudes of the Wars of the Roses, and two further marriages, to see her only son Henry ascend the throne of England as the first monarch of the Tudor dynasty. Margaret helped to bring about the marriage of Henry VII to Elizabeth of York, a union that helped heal the wounds of a bitterly divided nation.

During Henry's reign, she exerted considerable influence at court and played a part in the upbringing of her grandson, the future Henry VIII. She was a lifelong artistic patron and supporter of academia. By the time of her death in June 1509, Margaret had outlived by two months the son whose birth had so nearly killed her.

Lauren Johnson's life of Margaret Beaufort brings its subject vividly and memorably to life. She delineates the decades of political upheaval that were the backdrop to Margaret's long and resilient career, but also tells her story with a profound and touching humanity. This was a woman who endured the trauma of childbirth when she was little more than a child herself; who saw her baby on only a handful of occasions before he reached manhood; who braved decades of danger and uncertainty, and who succeeded in guiding her son - through courage, political astuteness and sheer persistence - to the greatest prize of all: the crown of England.