My Contrary Mary (The Lady Janies)

This is the story of Mary, Queen of Scots, but like it’s never been told before. She has lived in France with her intended, Prince Francis, since she was five, waiting to become his wife. Francis, while not wanting to be king, does not have any objection to marrying Mary; she is already his best friend, even if she does turn into a mouse, unbeknownst to everyone else. When the king decides it is time for the wedding, Mary gathers her ladies-in-waiting, also all named Mary, and prepares for her big day while lamenting the fact that her mother, who rules Scotland in her stead, will not arrive in time and praying that no one discovers her shapeshifting ways. The wedding goes off without a hitch, but it marks the happy calm before a storm, one which features death and destruction, family betrayal, and unfriendly spying.

There are no historical novels as fun and entertaining as the ones re-told by this trio of authors. Pop culture references keep the tale lively (Ari’s visions are a hoot!) while Mary lives up to her contrary reputation. Readers who loved The Lady Janies will love this new series. After all, there’s something about Mary.