The Sword and the Flame — Pamela Hill

The author scores of historical novels, Pamela Hill has gained a devoted following with her uniquely entrancing style of storytelling. Now, with The Sword and the Flame, she gives her audience yet another treasure for their shelves, telling the tale of one of history's most courageous women -- Mary of Lorraine -- and her daughter, Mary, Queen of Scots.

Twice widowed, left with a week-old daughter and the title of Queen, the beautiful Mary of Lorraine must defend herself against the ravagements of fate and the villainy of politics. Alone in the King's court, she must fend off the English invasions ordered by Henry VIII's pique at her refusal to hand over her daughter; she must struggle with her own nobles, especially the weak and treacherous Regent Arran, and battle the emergence of the Reformers. Mary's triumphant determination to rule Scotland justly and fairly for her daughter provides Hill fans with a riveting read and a truly compelling historical tale.