Mary Tudor has always been known as "Bloody Mary," named by later Protestant chroniclers who vilified her for attempting to re-impose Roman Catholicism in England. Although a more nuanced picture of the first queen regent has since emerged, she is still depicted as a tragic figure, isolated after the annulment of her parents’ marriage and rescued from obscurity by Katherine Parr. Although Henry doted on Mary, her determination to side with her mother hurt him as a father and damaged perceptions of him as a monarch. However, once Mary had been pressured into compliance, Henry reverted to being a loving father and Mary played an important role in court life. As Melita Thomas points out, Mary was a gambler—and not just with cards. Later, she would risk all to gain the throne. As a young girl of just 17 she made the first throw of the dice, defiantly maintaining her claim to be Henry’s legitimate daughter against the determined attempts of Anne Boleyn and the king to break her spirit. 'In addition to a very comprehensive selection of portraits and relevant buildings in the colour plates section, we are very well served in this book with a very detailed yet clear timeline of British and European events between 1485 and 1547 and a genealogical table at the front, plus to appendices at the back, one of European states and the other a Who's Who of important contemporaries. A reader could probably not ask for more.'-- "The Bookbag" "Melita Thomas' research is impeccable, her arguments and theories are backed up by primary sources, including memoirs, letters and treaties. The focus is entirely on Mary, her relationships with her family and courtiers and the way her father's policies and marriages affected her life. It examines every aspect of Mary's life in impeccable detail; her education, court life, her relationships, health and daily routine. It is a sad tale, of a father who demanded absolute obedience, and never considered the consequences of his actions on the mental well-being of his children."-- "www.historytheinterestingbits.com" 'A wonderful début. Melita Thomas brilliantly explores the early life of Mary Tudor against a European backdrop. She traces the young princess's relationship with her father Henry VIII, and convincingly argues that Mary was very much her father's daughter - not just the pious girl but also the political animal. A powerful narrative filled with new insights.'--Dominic Pearce author of Henrietta Maria 'This scholarly and highly engaging book offers a genuinely fresh perspective on Mary Tudor, presenting her as far more than the tragic and 'Bloody' queen of legend. By exploring Mary through the lens of her relationship with her father, Henry VIII, the author provides a compelling new portrait of this much-misunderstood woman which is at once more sympathetic and believable than many established accounts. A stunning achievement.'--Dr Tracy Borman, Joint Chief Curator of Historic Royal Palaces and author of numerous books Melita Thomas is a co-founder and editor of Tudor Times  website.