A Queen's Rise to Power: Intrigue, Romance, and Royal Politics in 16th Century England Join Ford Madox Ford on a thrilling journey through 16th century England as he brings to life the tumultuous world of Henry VIII's court. Meet Katharine Howard, a devout and intelligent young noblewoman who rises from poverty to become the King's fifth wife. With its richly detailed setting and complex characters, The Fifth Queen is the first book in Ford Madox Ford's classic trilogy, which reimagines the true story of Catherine Howard's arrival at court and her ultimate fate. Ford Madox Ford (1873-1939) was an English novelist, poet, and critic known for his modernist literary style and historical fiction works.