Roses Have Thorns: A Novel of Elizabeth I by Sandra Byrd

Aug 25, 2012 Shantelle rated it liked it

Shelves: read-in-2013, romance, christian-fiction, medieval-renaissance-500-1700, new-adult, reviewed, historical, on-my-bookshelf

As the third book in the Ladies in Waiting series, Roses Have Thorns centers on Elizabeth I and one of her closest ladies-in-waiting, Helena.

I confess, this book felt a little different than the first two, more faster-paced or something. A lot of years passed in this book, and some events weren't elaborted on. But it still held my interest and I enjoyed it; even though I may have not been as caught up in the story as the other two books.

I learned a lot about Elizabeth I, and while I still feel ...more

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Nov 17, 2012 Audra (Unabridged Chick) rated it really liked it

Shelves: heroine-unusually-attractive, tudors, historicals, place-uk, heroine-amazing, guilty-pleasure, historical-figure-fictionalized, era-renaissance

So, I went into this knowing it was a Tudor book (featuring Elizabeth), but so many people swear by Byrd's novels I decided to give it a go. What I didn't realize until I got my galley was that this is a Howard Book release. (Howard Books is Simon & Schuster's faith-based imprint and belongs to the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association.) So I must confess I was immediately apprehensive, being not Christian and not inclined toward inspirational fiction.

My apprehension was unnecessary.

I So, I went into this knowing it was a Tudor book (featuring Elizabeth), but so many people swear by Byrd's novels I decided to give it a go. What I didn't realize until I got my galley was that this is a Howard Book release. (Howard Books is Simon & Schuster's faith-based imprint and belongs to the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association.) So I must confess I was immediately apprehensive, being not Christian and not inclined toward inspirational fiction.

My apprehension was unnecessary.

I had a great time with this book -- it read fast, was plotty, well-written, and just the diversion I needed. I'm definitely a Sandra Byrd fan right now and will have to be less snobbish about some inspirational fiction!

Byrd tells the story of Elizabeth I's court through the eyes of a Swedish courtier, Elin von Snakenborg, who later becomes Helena, Marchioness of Northampton, the highest ranked woman in England after the Queen. At seventeen, Elin leaves Sweden aware that her charismatic sister and her fiance are liking having a fling, and spends the next ten months -- ten months! -- sailing to get to England. Upon arriving in England, Elin's only friend is William Parr, 1st Marquess of Northampton, an older widower who is taken with her. Hungry for family, chilled by the English courtiers, Elin's situation changes when she's allowed to stay in England to wed Parr after the Swedish delegation departs. But once her countrymen are gone, she learns the widower Parr isn't marriageable: his first wife still lives, and the courts can't decide if his marriage is legal or not.

Resolute -- more resolute that I would have been! -- Elin adopts a more English name, Helena, and uses her skills in herbal medicine to impress Elizabeth. As she slowly gains Elizabeth's friendship, Elin finally marries but learns what the spark of true passion is like. She's witness to the greatest upheavals and personalities in Elizabeth's court, and is even party to one or two scandals.

Even though this is a novel of court life, Elin's less ambitious nature made her a comfortable guide for me. Observant, loyal, and well-placed (no need for intrigue and shenanigans!), Elin could have been just a little too perfect but came off rather darling, and I admit, I was smitten. Byrd's Elizabeth is shown in her complicated glory, mercurial and moody, and court life exhilarating and exhausting.

Faith and religion certainly showed up in this story, but the context and use of it in the story fit. Religion, and the state of one's soul, was certainly on everyone's minds during this time, and the appearance of prayers and Bible snippets felt appropriate, in character, and unobtrusive. The theme of faith -- having faith in one's family, especially -- was echoed throughout the story, both in Elin's personal life as well as Elizabeth's.

There's no sex in this book (unless lightly mentioned among married folk) so it could be a 'clean' novel but that certainly didn't diminish any excitement in the story nor take away from the romance. (If you've got a young or teen reader chomping at the bit to read 'adult' historical novels, consider this one.)

There are tons of extras in this one: pages of family trees to help with lineages and familial connections, a meaty Afterword where Byrd shares what is historical, conjecture, and her own invention, a reading group guide, and a wonderful interview with her.

Recommended for Tudor fans as Elin's story is fascinating and almost unbelievable; for those who might be Tudor'd out, consider this one if you a novel that touches on that world of religion and intrigue without getting mired in it. ...more

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May 03, 2013 Debra Brown rated it it was amazing

I received this novel free of charge from the publisher for an honest review.

Roses Have Thorns is the third of the Ladies in Waiting Tudor-era novels by Sandra Byrd. It introduces the reader to a Swedish historical woman, Elin von Snakenberg, or as she came to be known in England, Helena, Marchioness of Northampton. Through the story of Elin we come into the court of Elizabeth I where we are brought face to face with the carefully researched ups-and-downs and at times life-and-death intrigues of I received this novel free of charge from the publisher for an honest review.

Roses Have Thorns is the third of the Ladies in Waiting Tudor-era novels by Sandra Byrd. It introduces the reader to a Swedish historical woman, Elin von Snakenberg, or as she came to be known in England, Helena, Marchioness of Northampton. Through the story of Elin we come into the court of Elizabeth I where we are brought face to face with the carefully researched ups-and-downs and at times life-and-death intrigues of life for a queen who had grown up with an all too realistic fear for her own neck after her father ordered the beheading of her mother and her wary half-sister took the throne. Surely such a Rose would have dangerous thorns as a cousin entered her land and was said to contend for her throne. Who around her could Elizabeth trust?

Byrd paints a sympathetic and likeable heroine from the start of the book as Elin must leave her fiance behind obviously entangled in a love affair with her sister as Elin travels to England attending a Swedish princess. A difficult, lengthy voyage and Danish interference cut off communication with her family. Love quickly finds her in England, however, with Lord Northampton, brother of the late Queen Kathryn Parr, and she comes to be the second most powerful woman in the land. Yet we see how Elin endured puzzling rejection and even near death for having brought along into Elizabeth's bedchamber a custom from her homeland.

Lovers of historical fiction will enjoy becoming better acquainted with numerous persons--the Swedish princess, many from Elizabeth's court and especially the not-well-known Elin from Sweden. Byrd won a fascinated readership with this choice of a lovely, young woman who would enchant an uneasy queen with her soothing massage and her discerning words spoken with a lilting accent.

Writing in the first person, Byrd conjures interesting phrases that make reading her fiction a word-lover's delight while raising the level of suspense. "She took my proffered arm, but I felt warned rather than warmed."

The author mentions places, customs and persons of the time without giving the story a textbook feel and without taking the reader out of the story. I was far too intrigued with what might happen next to go looking things up (except for the delightful main character!), yet I grew in knowledge of the period and felt ever more dressed in a Tudor gown.

An appealing cover shows Elizabeth and her lady in cloth of gold, and the family trees of main characters assist the reader in placing them accurately in context. Chapter numbers are underscored with scrollwork befitting the historical setting, and a description of dates and locations for each chapter help the reader remain grounded. Bestselling authors and respected literary journalists fill pages with praise for the book. ...more

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Sep 13, 2018 Beth rated it really liked it

Shelves: series-challenge-2018, historical-fiction, last-tbr-challenge-2018, christian-fiction, 2018

The third and final book in the Ladies in Waiting series does not disappoint! I think this one was probably my favorite of the three, although it is hard to pick. I don't actually remembering hearing anything about Elin von Snakenborg, which strikes me as odd since history claims her as one of the queen's closest friends, and in rank, she was the highest ranking lady during that time, just below the queen. Elin, or Helena, as she comes to be called, is an endearing character, and as I got to The third and final book in the Ladies in Waiting series does not disappoint! I think this one was probably my favorite of the three, although it is hard to pick. I don't actually remembering hearing anything about Elin von Snakenborg, which strikes me as odd since history claims her as one of the queen's closest friends, and in rank, she was the highest ranking lady during that time, just below the queen. Elin, or Helena, as she comes to be called, is an endearing character, and as I got to know her, I wanted her to succeed more and more.

I think what I love most about these books, and this one in particular, is that it highlights the power of friendship and the strength to be found there, especially in those of strong bonds between women. On the flip side, it also showed Helena's bravery in standing up for herself and her family, to great personal risk. Being one of the queen's most trusted friends is no easy task, and it often means that Helena has little control over her own life. I cheered with her when she dared to speak out for herself, and at the same time mourned with her as a long chapter of her life came to a close.

I admit that the romance in this one was not my favorite. The second book holds the top spot of the three. However, that wasn't really the focus of this story - I wanted all of the time to be spent in Queen Elizabeth's court, so I appreciated the details of her reign. Byrd portrays her strength as a monarch, making the rare glimpses of her with Helena and her closest friends even more intriguing and poignant. Regardless of what is believed about her personal life, she did appear to sacrifice all for what she felt was the good of her country, but I would imagine that she did have her share of regrets that her path was set so unflinchingly before her.

I don't often read books set in Tudor England, although it used to be one of my favorite time periods to read. I always feel a bit sad for people, that their lives were so wrapped up in one person, often to the detriment of their own personal relationships. Fascinating, yes, but also precarious, full of deceit, and a bit sad. Also, while this is a series, and I did read them in order, the novels work perfectly well as stand alone stories. Recommended to readers of historical fiction and stories of fascinating and strong women of history. ...more

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Nov 28, 2012 Renee rated it it was amazing

Shelves: favorite-christian-fiction

Sandra Byrd has done it again. Just when I thought I couldn't become anymore intrigued by Tudor history she pens another stellar book that makes me want to know more, more, more! Each story in the Ladies in Waiting series, Roses Have Thorns included, has an authentic feel. From clothing, to court life, to dialogue you can't help become immersed in the story and feel as if you are a part of it. The best thing is that not only are historical settings and figures brought to life but romance as ...more

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Oct 16, 2012 Alice rated it it was amazing

Shelves: to-re-read, favorites, tudor-history

Amazing. Captivating. Detailed. Touching.
Sandra Byrd is the Jane Austen of Tudor Fiction! :D
It is rare to find clean Tudor fiction, let alone Christian Tudor fiction; but Mrs. Byrd's stories never disappoint! I am always grateful for her wholesome, rich novels- they are high up on my favorites list, and I already can't wait to re-read them later on down the road and experience these intriguing historical treasures again!
Thank you Mrs. Byrd, for allowing these stories to be a part of my life! ...more

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Apr 21, 2013 Ruth rated it it was amazing

4.5 Stars. Just shy of her seventeenth birthday, Lady Elin von Snakenborg's future is in flux -- though she is engaged, her fiance's eye has turned toward her younger sister, jeopardizing her future just as she prepares to embark on an arduous journey to the English court as one of the Swedish Princess Cecelia's attendants. With her future at home uncertain, Elin turns her attentions to life at the English court and its charismatic queen, Elizabeth I. When Elin catches the eye of the Marquess of 4.5 Stars. Just shy of her seventeenth birthday, Lady Elin von Snakenborg's future is in flux -- though she is engaged, her fiance's eye has turned toward her younger sister, jeopardizing her future just as she prepares to embark on an arduous journey to the English court as one of the Swedish Princess Cecelia's attendants. With her future at home uncertain, Elin turns her attentions to life at the English court and its charismatic queen, Elizabeth I. When Elin catches the eye of the Marquess of Northampton, Sir William Parr, she determines to forge a new life for herself at the center of Tudor power, and remains behind in service to Elizabeth when Cecelia and her retinue return to Sweden. Taking the name of Helena, she determines to become a true Englishwoman, and devotes herself to serve her new queen. Helena's loyalty to Elizabeth does not go unnoticed or unrewarded, and she quickly becomes one of Elizabeth's chosen few, a lady of privilege and power in a dangerous world that would seek to sway the queen's decisions. When Helena falls in love with an untitled gentleman, she discovers just how high a price the cost of friendship with a queen can be, and must decide how to balance loyalty to her sovereign with the desires of her heart.

Roses Have Thorns is the third installment of Sandra Byrd's Ladies in Waiting series, exploring the lives, loves, and times of powerful Tudor queens as seen through the eyes of their closest companions -- the ladies in waiting who stood in attendance while history was being made. I haven't read Byrd's work before, but after reading her richly evocative exploration of Elizabeth and Helena's world, I definitely plan to explore the previous novels in this series which focused on two of Elizabeth's predecessors -- her mother, Anne Bolyen, and her father's last wife, Kateryn Parr. I love novels that seek to shed light on the lives of women at pivotal points in history -- most often against highly patriarchal social constructs. Byrd's work here illuminating the life of Elizabeth I, as seen through the eyes of one of her closest companions -- a foreign noblewoman who rose to the heights of Tudor power, becoming the second-highest ranking woman in the land, fits comfortably alongside the fiction from the likes of C.W. Gortner. Gortner is a master at restoring the humanity and complicated passions to women (such as Catherine de Medici) oft-times maligned by history. In a similar fashion Byrd crafts a thoroughly engaging portrait of Elizabeth through the eyes of a woman who revered her, whose unswerving loyalty was balanced by a keen insight into the volatile nature of the power Elizabeth wielded, and the passion and strength it took to devote herself whole-heartedly to her country's welfare.

I loved Helena's character, as over the course of the novel the once shy, uncertain princess matures into a compassionate, fiercely loyal friend of the crown, and as such is uniquely placed to witness the trials and triumphs of Elizabeth's reign -- from the threat posed to her crown by her cousin, Mary, Queen of Scots, to the "Protestant wind" that destroyed the threat poised to her island kingdom by the Spanish Armada. But the favor of the queen is not without cost, and as it becomes increasingly clear that Elizabeth will devote herself to the service of England at the expense of marriage and family, she demands a level of loyalty and sacrifice in her attendants that mirrors her own. Byrd's poignant exploration of Elizabeth's sacrifice of singleness is extraordinarily well-crafted, humanizing the legendary queen in memorably unique manner. Likewise, the stress service to the queen places on Helena's second marriage illuminating and heart-breaking -- I'd never considered the cost of service to the queen, only the honor. By far my favorite aspect of the novel comes in the final third, where Helena fights to renew her marriage, stressed to the breaking point by the demands of royal service. It's one of the most frankly honest, stirring portraits of the work it takes to sustain a marriage that I've ever read in historical or contemporary fiction.

Byrd has clearly done her research on the time period, saturating each page of Helena's story with delicious period detail, from the gowns and jewelry that adorned Elizabeth and her ladies to the customs, pastimes, and politics that made up day-to-day court life. She deftly utilizes language, cosmetic detail, and historical fact to create a rich, evocative portrait of an epicenter of sixteenth-century power. If I have one complaint, it's the novel's pacing and the manner in which the passage of time is marked in this relatively slim volume (just over 300 pages). Covering a span of nearly forty years, time flies at a break-neck speed, making this a fast read, yes -- but one wishes for more pages in which to savor Helena's experiences and rise to power in service to Elizabeth. Chapters can cover nearly two years -- and when one's protagonist is at one point having a child per chapter, it's unavoidable that the pacing and structure of the novel feel rushed as a result. That said, being left wanting more isn't an entirely bad problem for a novel to have. *wink*

Roses Have Thorns offers a unique, richly-drawn portrait of Elizabeth as seen through the eyes of one closest to her -- a woman who devoted decades of her life in service to the queen of her adopted homeland. Replete with the drama, intrigue, and passions the period is known for, Byrd grounds the very human elements of her story with a subtle faith thread, one that never overwhelms the story but is instead organic to the time period, enriching and personalizing the struggles of characters long dead, brought to vibrant life with Byrd's evocative prose. This is a gorgeously-rendered achievement, and if this is the type of historical fiction Byrd is capable of I'm left more eager than ever for her next project. A novel of women, their friendships, and the price of power, Roses Have Thorns is thought-provoking, heart-rending historical fiction at its best. ...more

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Apr 01, 2013 Rissi rated it liked it

Shelves: blog-tour

3.5 Stars

Review: For years, over her entire educational studies, Elin Von Snakenborg has prepared for her trip with the Swedish Princess Cecilia to the English shores to visit Queen Elizabeth. The woman, the Swedish monarchy once thought may marry their king. As one of Cecilia’s ladies-in-waiting, Elin never expected to be swept into the Queen’s court. Her knowledge of essential oils and herbs interests Elizabeth and Elin immediately captures the fancy of the kindhearted, older and widowed Lord 3.5 Stars

Review: For years, over her entire educational studies, Elin Von Snakenborg has prepared for her trip with the Swedish Princess Cecilia to the English shores to visit Queen Elizabeth. The woman, the Swedish monarchy once thought may marry their king. As one of Cecilia’s ladies-in-waiting, Elin never expected to be swept into the Queen’s court. Her knowledge of essential oils and herbs interests Elizabeth and Elin immediately captures the fancy of the kindhearted, older and widowed Lord Northampton, a man who owes his life to Elizabeth having been imprisoned once by the Queen’s elder sister, Mary. Choosing to remain in England transforms Elin into becoming a true Englishwoman as she prepares for a wedding as Helena and finding her place in Elizabeth’s court but where does her heart truly lie...

Conflicted and curious are probably the two words I’ve use to sum up this book – the first describing how I felt at the end, the latter prior to ever reading anything by Sandra Byrd. Reveled for her skill with this series - having seen films and television shows that chronicles the rise and fall of power in the Tudor family, I was naturally interested. This, the third book is set in the court of Elizabeth II – known as the “virgin queen,” deals largely in a "behind-the-scenes" kind of look and there are some great details of how she ran her court that were quite delightful. Between the costuming descriptions and the unique descriptions of “the way” of the era, it was an interesting read and one I am not sorry to have been a part of. Sandra weaves a well-written and plotted book.

There are some interesting historical looks at the long-suffering struggle of power between Elizabeth and her cousin, Mary, Queen of Scots that eventually (historically so as well as fictionally) ends in tragedy. Then Sandra explores the relationship between Elizabeth and her “love,” Robert Dudley. Being no scholar on the matter, I don’t know how much she wrote from what her own impressions of the romantic liaison was or if she backed her scenario on historical facts. Either way, the end of Elizabeth’s life is a sad one – one that the author writes and handles well.

As a fictional character in a historically accurate world, I grew to like Helena. She was sympathetic and alone in a world not her own and yet that did not stop her from forging her own life in the unfamiliar. She wasn’t a “spunky” heroine so much as she was loyal and dutiful to the crown but her marriages were, by contrast of the darker historic facts, special. Weaving two sweet love stories, I have to say I was impressed by how deftly Sandra expressed the love and tenderness each respective person had toward the other person – Helena’s first blush with love was all it should be, her shifting feelings towards William were realistic and easy to understand as was Thomas’ jealously later on in his marriage to Helena. In the first three-fourths of the book, these are themes that were held up and well explained, however in the last vestiges of the book, I felt as if this was dropped in an unceremoniously way.

Cons: Hurrying through what should be the formative years of Helena seemed an unnecessary element. Furthering the plot is one thing, passing eight years between a space of eight chapters is another. Some single chapters even buzz pass time in an alarming rate. This use of time reads as if the story were rushing past what could have been key changes in the story, either by creating conflict or important “game-changers.”

Conclusion: I cannot honestly say that I loved this book. By no means was it a bad read for me, just not one I’ll be likely to re-read. To be fair, I think that a part of this was because I felt “rushed” when reading the book. Once I had to set it aside to meet a deadline and nearer the end, I tended to “speed read,” being a bit more interested in the romantic liaisons of Helena and Thomas (what can I say, I am a romantic) than that of Elizabeth’s continuing political struggles of power. Perhaps this was because the book is written from Helena’s perspective and so, it felt like a slight to her to focus so much time on Elizabeth’s reign and life or maybe it was nothing more than being strung out on the trials of Elizabeth having already an image of her formed via cinematic sagas. To be fair, this era is not a favorite either. Between that and my opinion being, in all likelihood biased by the cinematic portrayals, I was probably less enthused by this book as a work of fiction and reading it more as a “duty” and for me, that isn’t what I want from the books I chose to read. However, I’d wager any fans of Sandra’s prior two books will enjoy this one.

With thanks to the publisher for providing a complimentary copy of this book for reviewing purposes

© Copyright 2011-2013 Dreaming Under the Same Moon / Scribbles, Scripts and Such ...more

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Aug 02, 2012 Bluerose's Heart rated it it was amazing

Shelves: christian, favorites

Elin von Snakenborg starts out as a young, 16 year old young lady. She makes a long, cold journey with Sweden's Princess Cecelia to visit Queen Elizabeth I in England. She soon meets an older man, and the prospect of marriage is on the horizon. She makes the difficult decision to stay in England as a lady in waiting to Queen Elizabeth I, and takes on the English name, Helena. After all, her dowry has been gambled away, and her fiance is cheating with her sister. Staying in England looks much Elin von Snakenborg starts out as a young, 16 year old young lady. She makes a long, cold journey with Sweden's Princess Cecelia to visit Queen Elizabeth I in England. She soon meets an older man, and the prospect of marriage is on the horizon. She makes the difficult decision to stay in England as a lady in waiting to Queen Elizabeth I, and takes on the English name, Helena. After all, her dowry has been gambled away, and her fiance is cheating with her sister. Staying in England looks much more promising than returning home to Sweden. She soon learns that all may not be as it seems, though.

It's rare that I keep books once I've read them. This whole series is one that I have gladly given a permanent spot on my keeper shelf. In fact, when writing this post, I discovered that I could not find the first book, To Die For. A panic induced house hunt was promptly put into place. I had recently moved all of my keeper books from upstairs to downstairs, since we use our downstairs space more often. When Jonathan asked why I was moving them, I told him looking at my favorite books make me happy. I'm sure all of you married ladies can guess his response. "Maybe you should look at them more often." He said it with a smile, so I'll forgive him. ;) During the move, it had gotten a little misplaced.

While this edition to the "Ladies in Waiting" series still has the same overall feel, it's also completely different. In the other two books, Meg and Juliana were ladies in waiting to King Henry's wives(Anne Boleyn and Kathryn Parr). In Roses Have Thorns, Helena is a lady in waiting to the actual Queen. Both her duties and the Queen's are different. Also, Helena's "happily ever after" comes halfway through this story, as opposed to the end. We all know there's no such thing as a perfect happily ever after! Right?! While the other two books proved the difficulty in finding the "happily ever after", Roses Have Thorns shows more of the difficulties after the "happily ever after". We have the opportunity to see just how difficult being a lady in waiting to the queen was. It put a tremendous strain on those women's marriage and family life.

I liked Helena! She was a bit more outspoken than an average lady during that time was allowed, but she also knew not to overstep her boundaries. She was courageous, and even let her temper show when the time came to show it(in my opinion). She wasn't perfect! She makes one particular decision involving her husband I didn't necessarily agree with. She was kind and generous, though, and I grew to like her more and more. I also enjoyed seeing the bond between her and Elizabeth I grow stronger!

I've read a few books now pertaining to Queen Elizabeth I, and Sandra's portrayal is by far my favorite! She kept Elizabeth's stern qualities, but added a softness to her that I enjoyed seeing. While she is also portrayed far from perfect(we all have flaws), she is portrayed in a way that made me think of her with respect. Her life involved many sacrifices and difficult decisions!

Overall, this is a beautiful edition to the "Ladies in Waiting" series, and my favorite book of Sandra's so far. While I highly recommend the whole series, this one can be read perfectly fine as a standalone.

*I was provided an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. ...more

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Jan 31, 2013 Stephanie rated it it was amazing

Shelves: gift-from-author, for-review, historical-fiction

Roses Have Thorns is the third novel I have read of Sandra’s and I have thoroughly enjoyed everyone single one of them. With each book, I say, “No, this one is my favorite.” I can’t decide! She not only gives you wonderful, strong characters but gives you a fascinating and fresh look into the Tudor dynasty. What I like most about her stories is that she does not add brutal and graphic scenes but gives you a rich and vivid picture of how Tudor life was like. Which Sandra has tastefully crafted ...more

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May 05, 2016 Naksed marked it as dnf · review of another edition

Shelves: boring, historical-fiction, ya

DNF at chapter 16 out of 24.

A historical fiction about Elizabeth I's reign, Roses have Thorns, by Sandra Byrd, provides an adequate glimpse into the life of a high ranking courtier in the monarch's intimate circle.

The reader gets all the minutiae of caring daily for the Queen (warming her bedsheets, lotioning her hands, unpinning her dress etc) as well as some very basic insight into her psychology (the deep impact of her mother's death, the pragmatic reasons not to marry and to remain ...more

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Aug 08, 2012 Charity U rated it it was amazing

Shelves: favorites, historical-fiction

Oh, it was good! It was so much fun (and so interesting) to get to know Queen Elizabeth I a little better. I really did feel like I knew her pretty well by the end. And I love the cover too – more in person than online. The purple and gold are very stunning, and the entire trilogy looks so lovely all together on my shelf! Elin/Helena, the main heroine, is a lady in waiting to Elizabeth I and turned out to be a fascinating woman to “journey” with through this book, as she was telling the story ...more

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Sep 25, 2012 Jan rated it liked it

Shelves: historical-fiction

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Nov 21, 2012 VL rated it really liked it

Shelves: advance-reader-books, historical-fiction

This was a very well-written account of a Swedish woman who comes to visit England with the princess and ends up staying. The subtitle says a novel of Elizabeth I but it is more a novel of Elin and her life spent in an English court after coming from Sweden. I admire Elin and her strength when dealing with her fiance cheating on her, her first husband waiting too long to marry her, and her second husband hiding things from her. Elin is the type of strong female character in the Elizabethan age ...more

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Feb 09, 2013 Kathleen E. rated it it was amazing

Saturday, April 20, 2013
Roses Have Thorns: A Novel of Elizabeth I by Sandra Byrd, 2013

What happens when serving a queen may cost you your marriage—or your life?
In 1565, seventeen-year-old Elin von Snakenborg leaves Sweden on a treacherous journey to England. Her fiancé has fallen in love with her sister and her dowry money has been gambled away, but ahead of her lies an adventure that will take her to the dizzying heights of Tudor power. Transformed through marriage into Helena, the Marchioness ...more

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Mar 08, 2013 Lynelle Clark rated it it was amazing

Shelves: arc-receive, historical-christian, romance, english-historical, historical-christian-romance

Step back in time and enjoy this wonderful written story.

The Elizabeth 1 Reign was one of the most interesting time periods in history many spoke about. Books have been written and movies made from this time that changed many of England's views, religion and politics. All due to a strong willed woman that knew her duty, her love for her people and her firm believe in an Almighty God.
She was not only a queen but a woman that searched for acceptance, love and devotion from all those attending her Step back in time and enjoy this wonderful written story.

The Elizabeth 1 Reign was one of the most interesting time periods in history many spoke about. Books have been written and movies made from this time that changed many of England's views, religion and politics. All due to a strong willed woman that knew her duty, her love for her people and her firm believe in an Almighty God.
She was not only a queen but a woman that searched for acceptance, love and devotion from all those attending her court.
One of these woman was Elin Ulfsdotter of Fyllingarum, Maid of Honor to her Majesty Queen Elizabeth 1.
Later after Helena, who adopted her new English name married Marquess William of Northampton she became the highest titled lady after the queen and served her for many years.
The author masterly crafted the story from this well known women bringing their lives too the forefront to familiarize ourselves with the time period, the lives they led and the decisions they made to better themselves, serving those they love with a humbled servitude, companionship and trust we do not find today.
The author's thorough research could be seen as these people's lives became real on the paper and you are drawn into the history and day to day duties at court.
Treason was at the order of the day as Mary, Queen of the Scots tried to over throw Elizabeth 1 with tenuous attacks against the Sovereign's throne. Her Ladies-in-Waiting was not only there to console her or help her to dress but also to protect her at all cost. Helena the closest to her Majesty the person who decided who would come in close proximity of the Queen. Her eyes always open and not to be bought at any cost. Loyal to the end.
A tedious work that took her from her own home and husband Thomas Gorges, more on the road because of his own duties to the Queen than at her side. Giving birth to eight living children she served in the court under the Queen's reign managing and running the "household" with a sharp wit. Always remaining in control and reaching out to those around her.
At first we saw this unsecured young woman being shipped from Sweden to help their own Princess, and where she find that royalty commanded as they see fit, selfish and demanding at all times. A place she found she did not want to be.
When the marquess fell in love with her and asked for her hand in marriage she stayed behind, becoming a true lady. But it was a long wait during which she has grown in maturity, to a person the Queen trusted and respected, a right hand that loved the Queen with genuine care.
She was also torn between her own affairs and that of the crown, Elizabeth's demands were not easily met and it almost cost her, her marriage to a young cousin that only saw Thomas for what she could gain.
Her devotion and love to her second husband was beautifully illustrated and at the end she managed to capture his heart once again.
Thomas, without any titles and who fell in love with her. The man not good enough to marry this high titled lady spend time in the Tower after the Queen learned of the secret marriage. Imprisoning Helena in her home, being with child taking the risk of contacting the Queen to plead her case with the Queen. Hoping that the friendship she had with Her Highness would secure them of a sound future.
I really admired this couple that was willing to stand against odds, making a life for themselves and having eight children together and still remain loyal to the throne. At the cost of their own happiness they served their Queen so that we, years later can still read about them, learn about their devotion to each other.
A beautiful love story all on its own.

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May 11, 2013 Bookworm rated it it was amazing

I am a big fan of Sandra Byrd's Ladies in Waiting series which centers around the three Tudor Queens and their closest ladies. The first two installments, To Die For and The Secret Keeper both made it onto my favorites list when I read them. Roses Have Thorns is the third and final installment in this series.

In this book, seventeen-year-old Elin von Snakenborg arrives from Sweden and becomes one of Queen Elizabeth's ladies in waiting and eventually one of the queen's highest ranking ladies. In I am a big fan of Sandra Byrd's Ladies in Waiting series which centers around the three Tudor Queens and their closest ladies. The first two installments, To Die For and The Secret Keeper both made it onto my favorites list when I read them. Roses Have Thorns is the third and final installment in this series.

In this book, seventeen-year-old Elin von Snakenborg arrives from Sweden and becomes one of Queen Elizabeth's ladies in waiting and eventually one of the queen's highest ranking ladies. In time Elin marries and becomes the Marchioness of Northampton. There is drama, backstabbing, crooked politics, battles over Religion and romance in the Tudor court as usual.

Also involved in the plot is the fate of Mary Queen of Scots, the queen's own cousin and rival for the crown. Elin, also known as Helena, grows from young womanhood into adulthood while at Elizabeth's court and she learns some hard lessons on life, love and loyalty.

The writing here is vivid and rich and I was instantly swept away to another time and place as author Sandra Byrd captures the glitz, glamour and danger of the Tudor court really nicely.
The characters are well developed, I liked Elin. I was eager to see where her story would go, how this young Swede would fare in England being away from her family and her home. She became close to the Queen using her knowledge of herbs and scents to gain her trust and favor. Her friendship with the Queen seemed real and believable. Queen Elizabeth is written well and I found this version of the Monarch to be true to form. She is represented as being a queen, yet her frailties are shown as well. Lord Dudley is here, Robin as the Queen called him, always by her side, always the source of speculation.

I love it when fact and fiction are woven together to create an interesting story like this one. Author Sandra Byrd has become a go to writer for me in this genre.
I recommend Roses Have Thorns, and the Ladies in Waiting series, to fans of the Tudor's and of historical fiction. These books can be read as stand alone novels, but I do recommend all three of them as they are well written and highly entertaining. I can see myself reading this series again one day.

Disclaimer:
This review is my honest opinion. I did not receive any type of compensation for reading and reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers and authors, such as this one, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. I received a free review copy of Roses Have Thorns in exchange for my honest opinion.
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Feb 11, 2013 Philippa rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction, kindle

Review originally posted at http://eatreadexplore.wordpress.com

I absolutely adore historical fiction, and Tudor court novels are by far my favourites. I've read so many by now that I could easily write my very own detailed book about the Tudor monarchs. So why do I keep reading them then? A very good question, and I think it's mostly to do with the fact that I love history, and also I just love the descriptions of life at court which is just so complex and other-worldly when you look at it from Review originally posted at http://eatreadexplore.wordpress.com

I absolutely adore historical fiction, and Tudor court novels are by far my favourites. I've read so many by now that I could easily write my very own detailed book about the Tudor monarchs. So why do I keep reading them then? A very good question, and I think it's mostly to do with the fact that I love history, and also I just love the descriptions of life at court which is just so complex and other-worldly when you look at it from our modern perspective. And even though I've read so much about Elizabeth I, it was really nice to read her life story from another person's perspective. I think it's odd that I had never heard of Elin (later called Helena) von Snakenborg, even though she was one of the women who was closest to the Queen for the majority of her adult life. Elin travels from the Swedish court to England at a young age and, at the prospect of marriage and becoming a true Englishwoman, she decides to stay at the English court rather than return to Sweden. The book follows her life through the years as she marries, becomes a widow, remarries below her status, has children and so on. Her life at court in service of Queen Elizabeth is a very prominent factor all through the book.

What I really liked about reading this story from Elin's perspective is that at times you could see the more human side of Elizabeth, as a woman rather than a Queen. These moments never lasted long, but it made her personality all the more likeable and 'real', rather than the fantastic and almost mythical ways in which she is usually described in the history books. I really liked Elin as a character as well. She's very kind and caring, and she must've been such a good friend and confidante to Elizabeth, which is why I don't understand why she isn't better known. There is almost no mention of her in most historical novels that I've read, and if she was mentioned it was probably so fleetingly that I can't even remember it.

The first 2/3 of the book were absolutely amazing and I read most of that in the same day because I just couldn't put it down. After that the story seemed to stall a bit and, in my opinion, it lingered a bit too long on the question of Mary Queen of Scots. But luckily the story picked up again after that and I was actually disappointed when the book was finished.

I really enjoyed this book from start to finish, and it was refreshing not only to read a familiar story from someone else's perspective, but also from another author who was unknown to me before. ...more

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Aug 04, 2014 Mirella rated it it was amazing

Roses Have Thorns

From the acclaimed author of To Die For
comes a stirring novel told that sheds new light on Elizabeth I and her court.

Book Summary

Like Philippa Gregory and Alison Weir, Sandra Byrd has attracted countless fans for evoking the complexity, grandeur, and brutality of the Tudor period. In her latest tour de force, she poses the question: What happens when serving a queen may cost you your marriage--or your life?

In 1565, seventeen-year-old Elin von Snakenborg leaves Sweden on a Roses Have Thorns

From the acclaimed author of To Die For
comes a stirring novel told that sheds new light on Elizabeth I and her court.

Book Summary

Like Philippa Gregory and Alison Weir, Sandra Byrd has attracted countless fans for evoking the complexity, grandeur, and brutality of the Tudor period. In her latest tour de force, she poses the question: What happens when serving a queen may cost you your marriage--or your life?

In 1565, seventeen-year-old Elin von Snakenborg leaves Sweden on a treacherous journey to England. Her fiance has fallen in love with her sister and her dowry money has been gambled away, but ahead of her lies an adventure that will take her to the dizzying heights of Tudor power. Transformed through marriage into Helena, the Marchioness of Northampton, she becomes the highest-ranking woman in Elizabeth's circle. But in a court that is surrounded by Catholic enemies who plot the queen's downfall, Helena is forced to choose between her unyielding monarch and the husband she's not sure she can trust--a choice that will provoke catastrophic consequences.

Vividly conjuring the years leading up to the beheading of Mary Queen of Scots, Roses Have Thorns is a brilliant exploration of treason, both to the realm and to the heart.

Book Review
by
Mirella Patzer

If you've never read a novel by Sandra Byrd, then you're in for a real treat. I love that this book brings to life a lesser known woman in the Tudor era. It's a nice change from the over abundance of novels about Henry VIII's wives.

Sandra Byrd had delved deeply and truly brought to life Erin Snakenborg in this fascinating portrayal. Through Erin's eyes, we learn more of Queen Elizabeth, the animosity between her and her half-sister Mary Queen of Scots, the many murder plots to kill her off, and the political turmoil of the era.

With lush descriptions, a compelling first person narrative, brilliant details, and tight dialogue, the author swept me into all the court intrigues of the time. I truly could not stop reading once I began. Historical facts were cleverly weaved into the story, so that keeping track of people, was not onerous. The story follows historical facts closely, which is another definite asset. A great storyline, a compelling heroine, and plenty of intrigue and conflict make this a must read book. I have also read To Die For and The Secret Keeper by Sandra Byrd and they are equally as good. Read all three! They are wonderfully enjoyable.
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Apr 26, 2013 Annette rated it it was amazing

Summary:
The year is 1564, and 17 year old Elin Ulfsdotter, von Snakenborg travels by ship from Sweden with an entourage of the Swedish royal court. Their destination is England and principally with Queen Elizabeth. During her departure Elin finds out her fiancée and her dowry have slipped away. After arriving in England Elin decides to make England her new home. Elin changed her name to Helena, she became a lady in waiting to the queen, and later married the Earl of Northampton. Helena rose Summary:
The year is 1564, and 17 year old Elin Ulfsdotter, von Snakenborg travels by ship from Sweden with an entourage of the Swedish royal court. Their destination is England and principally with Queen Elizabeth. During her departure Elin finds out her fiancée and her dowry have slipped away. After arriving in England Elin decides to make England her new home. Elin changed her name to Helena, she became a lady in waiting to the queen, and later married the Earl of Northampton. Helena rose socio-economically in becoming a titled and wealthy woman. During this time period Catholicism versus Protestantism are at enmity. Queen Elizabeth is protestant, but her nemesis and cousin Mary Queen of Scots is Catholic. Deception, entanglements, alliances, spying, and faithfulness, are tested by all in the royal court of England. Helena will be sorely tested. Her decision will be the earmark of her life.
My Thoughts:

The strength of this story is in Elin or Helena. She is an admirable, trustworthy character. She is a near-perfect blending of personality traits. She is beautiful both outwardly and inwardly. She is thoughtful, loving, patient, charming, insightful, and gentle. She is also judicious, and is proficient in voicing her feelings. She is a keen observer of people and this gives her a bonus working in Elizabeth's court. Helena is with the queen at all times. Rarely dismissed from her presence. Helena eyes and mind are quick to pick up on the nature of other people, as well as being clued in to the queen's demeanor. I was very impressed with Helena. In every way she embodies a virtuous woman. She makes the most of every opportunity to pray. With her keen observations, she takes them all to the Lord in prayer.
I loved seeing a personal side of Queen Elizabeth. Most books I've read of her have shown me her qualities that wanted to show me she could rule, as expected, as if she were a man, and the daughter of kings. Instead in Roses Have Thorns I also saw---her passion, insecurities, fears, and moments of sadness. I was very pleased to see in this novel a dimensional Elizabeth.
During this era, men ruled. They ruled on the throne and they ruled in the home and they ruled in all of society. But, because of a certain timing of circumstances a woman became Queen of England. I loved it that this novels principle player's were women, not men. Not that I don't like men, I do---very much, but I loved it that women were the focus of this novel!

Thank you to CBA-Renee Chaw, author Sandra Byrd, and Howard Books, for my FREE review copy! ...more

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May 02, 2013 Meagan Myhren-bennett rated it it was amazing

Shelves: fiction, friendship, christian, history, murder, romance, family

Roses Have Thorns
A Novel of Elizabeth I
By Sandra Byrd

I have never read Sandra Byrd's work before, though I have to admit wanting to, so this blog tour was the perfect time to acquaint myself with a new (for me) author. I have read other books about Elizabeth I in the past as my mom has been a Tutor / Stuart history buff and I had easy access to this titles through the years. Roses Have Thorns is definitely an excellent addition to the library of anyone interested in this time period.

Roses Have Roses Have Thorns
A Novel of Elizabeth I
By Sandra Byrd

I have never read Sandra Byrd's work before, though I have to admit wanting to, so this blog tour was the perfect time to acquaint myself with a new (for me) author. I have read other books about Elizabeth I in the past as my mom has been a Tutor / Stuart history buff and I had easy access to this titles through the years. Roses Have Thorns is definitely an excellent addition to the library of anyone interested in this time period.

Roses Have Thorns captured my attention and held it the end. I wanted to know what happened to Helena (Elin) Snakenborg and how her adjusted to life in Elizabeth's England after leaving her home and family behind in Sweden.

Elin is betrayed by both her sister and her fiance just days before she is to leave for a short trip to England. When Elin is offered a chance to stay in England and serve as a lady in Elizabeth's court she takes the opportunity it offers - a new life, a new country, and perhaps a new fiance. But as Elin soon learns a new name in a new country does not create friends. Only when she proves her loyalty to the crown at risk to her own life is she accepted and forms friendships within the court.

But betrayal surrounds Elizabeth and hidden threats can rise up at any time. Any piece of information could be vital to save the life of the Queen. But when choices of the heart or loyalty to the crown threaten her marriage what will Helena decide? To whom does her heart belong?

As England's religious future hangs in the balance, Elizabeth and Helena must decide where their hearts will lead them. Roses Have Thorns is the story of Elizabeth's England seen through the eyes of a woman who chose to make Elizabeth her queen and England her home.

Helena's love and her passions drive her loyalty as does the memory of her own betrayal. Take a journey of a lifetime with Helena and rediscover England of the sixteenth century. Fall in love with England of old.

Roses Have Thorns was an enjoyable reading experience and I would highly recommend it to any history lover or royalty enthusiast. It is a lovely way to spend an evening or week-end. I will now have to read the first two books in the series.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for my honest review. ...more

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Apr 09, 2013 Jamie rated it it was amazing

“He was a pawn wishing to be promoted to king, and minor pieces are oft sacrificed early in a game. The game, though, is always between the two most powerful pieces, queens.”

It’s release day for Roses Have Thorns by the ever wonderful Sandra Byrd! So go buy it. Right now! :) Now on to the review:

Can we take a moment to take about this family’s drama? I mean seriously. I could not handle never knowing who to fully trust. Like ever. My sister wants me dead? How sweet. Someone tried to poison me “He was a pawn wishing to be promoted to king, and minor pieces are oft sacrificed early in a game. The game, though, is always between the two most powerful pieces, queens.”

It’s release day for Roses Have Thorns by the ever wonderful Sandra Byrd! So go buy it. Right now! :) Now on to the review:

Can we take a moment to take about this family’s drama? I mean seriously. I could not handle never knowing who to fully trust. Like ever. My sister wants me dead? How sweet. Someone tried to poison me with deadly lotions? Neat. I can’t marry the love of my life? Precious.

Queen Elizabeth and Mary Queen of Scots weren’t exactly b/f/fs and what a sad reality where family doesn’t always mean instant love, but sometimes you have to execute them instead. But tis the life of royalty, especially during the Tudor age. Take a look at what awaits in these pages:

What happens when serving a queen may cost you your marriage–or your life?

In 1565, seventeen-year-old Elin von Snakenborg leaves Sweden on a treacherous journey to England. Her fiance has fallen in love with her sister and her dowry money has been gambled away, but ahead of her lies an adventure that will take her to the dizzying heights of Tudor power. Transformed through marriage into Helena, the Marchioness of Northampton, she becomes the highest-ranking woman in Elizabeth’s circle. But in a court that is surrounded by Catholic enemies who plot the queen’s downfall, Helena is forced to choose between her unyielding monarch and the husband she’s not sure she can trust–a choice that will provoke catastrophic consequences.

Vividly conjuring the years leading up to the beheading of Mary Queen of Scots, Roses Have Thorns is a brilliant exploration of treason, both to the realm and to the heart.

I love love love this whole series! What I really liked about this one, was that all the main characters were based on real people and Byrd did fantastic research. Once again this family line and reign came to life in awesome and intriguing fashion. If you love this time period, you definitely need to read these three. And even if you don’t, get them and I promise you’ll become fascinated!

P.S. I find it a tad bit humorous that one of England’s greatest and most beloved Queen’s was the daughter of Anne Boylen. Just throwing it out there.

(I received an advanced copy for review)

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Oct 04, 2012 Danielle rated it liked it

Shelves: historical-fiction, edelweiss-arc

Read This Review & More Like It At Ageless Pages Reviews

Roses Have Thorns spans about 25 years, starting when Elin von Snakenborg leaves Sweden in the company of Princess Cecelia, (about 5 years into Elizabeth’s reign) and ending around the time Mary, Queen of Scots, was finally executed. As is often the case with novels covering such a long time period, a lot of things are rushed or passed right over. In addition, Elin, or Helena as she adopts after choosing to stay in England, is a Maid of Read This Review & More Like It At Ageless Pages Reviews

Roses Have Thorns spans about 25 years, starting when Elin von Snakenborg leaves Sweden in the company of Princess Cecelia, (about 5 years into Elizabeth’s reign) and ending around the time Mary, Queen of Scots, was finally executed. As is often the case with novels covering such a long time period, a lot of things are rushed or passed right over. In addition, Elin, or Helena as she adopts after choosing to stay in England, is a Maid of Honor in the queen’s privy chamber. She’s not on the battlefield at Cadiz or sailing with her friend, Sir Francis Drake. She’s not in meetings with Parliament or watching Mary in the Tower. She’s turning down linens. Because there’s not a lot of direct action, the story comes off a lot like Helena, sedate, consistent, and bland.

Unfortunately, Helena just isn’t a very realized character. She does get a few moments of interest, but they revolve solely around the people in her life. It’s scandalous that her fiance is banging her sister in a broom closet or that an actor threatens to turn her engagement upside-down, but she never reacts in a way that makes it more interesting or more sympathetic. Life happens to Helena. Likewise, Elizabeth is portrayed as an omniscient goddess with a heart made of cotton candy and rainbows and a temper like no other, but we rarely see her do anything. We hear a lot about her hopes and dreams undying love for Robert Dudley, but for a book that purports to be “vividly conjuring” the time period, it’s surprisingly light on political intrigue.

There are some tense scenes, dealing mostly with Helena's second husband and where his loyalties lie. I did also really enjoy the scene with Elizabeth and the pins. It was the only time I felt true emotion between the two of them. But, in the end, I just couldn't overcome the odd pacing, (Helena's pregnancies are frequently hand waved away as, "We made love." Serve the queen. Serve the queen. Serve the queen. "Oh yeah, I was by now 8 months pregnant,") and lack of action. ...more

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Apr 06, 2013 Crystal rated it it was amazing

Shelves: ebook, for-review, netgalley, arc, 2013, read-april-2013

Sandra Byrd has done it again. She has thoroughly engaged me in a historical novel with intrigue romance and characters I truly care about. Roses Have Thorns is a wonderful installment in the Ladies in Waiting series.

Elin in a wonderful Lady in Waiting to watch move through the ranks of Queen Elizabeth's court. As she comes to England as a foriegner from Sweden and decides to stay when a mutual interest develops between her and a man of high ranking in the court. But as she stays all is not as Sandra Byrd has done it again. She has thoroughly engaged me in a historical novel with intrigue romance and characters I truly care about. Roses Have Thorns is a wonderful installment in the Ladies in Waiting series.

Elin in a wonderful Lady in Waiting to watch move through the ranks of Queen Elizabeth's court. As she comes to England as a foriegner from Sweden and decides to stay when a mutual interest develops between her and a man of high ranking in the court. But as she stays all is not as it seems and Elin who becomes Helena in her desire to become more English has to carve her place in the court. I love the strong will of Elin but the need for love both from a man and from her Queen. The need for friends and a husband as well as a sister-figure made her all the more real. I loved watching her growth in the court and as her strength and position grew I loved her even more. It was also interesting to see Elizabeth through her eyes. Elizabeth's strengths and weaknesses were envisioned through a lady of the court. It's a very interesting way to tell a historical and I loved this series because of it. The intimate look at the Queens has been fascinating.

So not only are the characters fascinating but the plot is amazing as well. The intrigues. It seems just when one plot against the Queen is figured out another is being hashed and I never knew who in the court could be trusted. And then the romances as well. The Queens' never realized romance and Elin's two different romances were beautiful and very realistic and really added to the plot.

Roses Have Thorns is an amazing historical depicting the life of Elizabeth I and her court. I felt like I intimately got to know Elin and Elizabeth both along with others in the court. I also felt like I got a great glimpse of court life and intrigue during this period. Ms. Byrd works wonders with both characters and plot to keep the reader engaged from the first page to the last. I always close her books eager for the next and Roses Have Thorns is no exception. I was sad to see it end and cannot wait to see what she offers us next! ...more

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Feb 02, 2013 Kathleen rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Recommended to Kathleen by: Passages To The Past

The Ladies in Waiting series made me curious about a group of people, ladies who worked for the Tudors. It was less about the Tudors than about the constellation of courtiers who revolved about them and what their lives consisted of.Curiosity about people is the essence of my life and surely the reason I read books and do research.

Roses Have Thorns was an awesome book about a very unique woman ,whose life was outside the norm for a lady of the court. Elin, or as she came to call herself, Helena ...more

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Mar 21, 2013 Sue rated it it was amazing

Absolutely fascinating story. A must read if you love Tudor history and/or Elizabeth I

I have read very little of this genre so was not sure what to expect with this novel. I an happy to say that this was a brilliant book. I started reading it late Thursday (March 21st) and finished it on Saturday (March 23rd). Every spare moment I had I gave to this book as I was so intrigued by what was going to happen next.
As I have already said, I have never been a huge fan of Tudor history, but this book ...more

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Mar 18, 2013 Brandi (Rambles of a SAHM) rated it it was amazing

Shelves: historical-fiction

In Roses Have Thorns we are taken into the inner circle of Queen Elizabeth I. The story is told through the perspective of Helen von Snakenborg, who is a confidant of the queen and the second most powerful woman in all of England.

If you are a fan of Tudor history you are really going to enjoy this book! Sandra Byrd has woven a tale that is compelling yet tasteful. She gives you insight into just how turbulent the times were. We are reminded of how much shifting between Catholic and Protestant ...more

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Oct 14, 2012 Kathleen Kelly rated it it was amazing

Roses Have Thorns is the third and last installment of the Ladies in Waiting series by Sandra Byrd. Elin von Snakenborg (Helena) is 17 when she comes to England and chooses to stay. She becomes one of Queen Elizabeth I's Ladies in Waiting and serves as such until the Queen's death. I had not heard of Helena before so I found her story very interesting and refreshing. Most of us who read historical fiction know the Tudor era and most of the queen's court are well known so it is really nice to ...more

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Jan 29, 2013 Amanda Stephan rated it it was amazing

Shelves: 2013

Historical fiction at its finest. When I want to read historical fiction, I don't want to feel as though I've picked up an encyclopedia and started reading it. I want to feel as though I have been transported back in time and am a part of that particular era. This is not an easy thing to do for any author. Sandra Byrd is one of the very few that can accomplish this. Too often, historical novels become places with major information dumps and I get bored. Quickly. And then I never want to return ...more

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Oct 10, 2012 Colleen Turner rated it it was amazing

Shelves: historical-tapestry-2013-challenge, 2013-tudor-reading-challenge-books, tudor-book-blog-challenge-13

I reviewed this book for www.luxuryreading.com.

I have read all three books in Sandra Byrd’s Ladies in Waiting series and, while I have really enjoyed them all, Roses Have Thorns was by far my favorite. Being a huge fan of Tudor historical fiction, I was delighted to find a real member of Elizabeth’s court that I had never heard of. The relationship between Helena and Elizabeth is touching and they are presented as having both love and respect for each other. Through Helena’s eyes we see an ...more

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