"Originally published in 2013 by Bloomsbury Publishing, Great Britain, as Elizabeth's Bedfellows: An Intimate History of the Queen's Court"--T.p. verso.

Elizabeth I acceded to the throne in 1558, restoring the Protestant faith to England. At the heart of the new queen's court lay Elizabeth's bedchamber, closely guarded by the favoured women who helped her dress, looked after her jewels and shared her bed. Elizabeth's private life was of public, political concern. Her bedfellows were witnesses to the face and body beneath the make-up and elaborate clothes, as well as to rumoured illicit dalliances with such figures as Robert Dudley. Their presence was for security as well as propriety, as the kingdom was haunted by fears of assassination plots and other Catholic subterfuge. For such was the significance of the queen's body: it represented the very state itself. This riveting, revealing history of the politics of intimacy uncovers the feminized world of the Elizabethan court. Between the scandal and intrigue the women who attended the queen were the guardians of the truth about her health, chastity and fertility. Their stories offer extraordinary insight into the daily life of the Elizabethans, the fragility of royal favour and the price of disloyalty.

This book investigates the agency and influence of medieval queens in late fourteenth-century England, focusing on the patronage and intercessory activities of the queens Philippa of Hainault and Anne of Bohemia, as well as the princess Joan of Kent. It examines the ways in which royal women were able to participate in traditional queenly customs such as intercession, and whether it was motherhood that gave power to a queen. This study focuses particularly on types of patronage, and also considers the importance of coronation, especially for Joan of Kent, who was neither a queen consort nor a dowager, yet still fulfilled some queenly duties. Crucially, the author highlights the transactional nature of the queen’s role at court, as she accumulated wealth from land, rights and traditions, which in turn funded patronage activities.

Agnes Strickland's 'The Queens of England' is a comprehensive and meticulously researched historical account of the lives of various queens who have shaped the history of England. Written in a clear and engaging style, the book provides detailed biographies of each queen, delving into their personal lives, political influences, and contributions to society. Strickland's work is considered a landmark in the field of royal biography, offering a balanced portrayal of these influential women within the broader context of English history. From the fierce reign of Queen Elizabeth I to the tragic story of Queen Anne, the book covers a wide range of queens and their impact on the monarchy. Strickland's vivid and detailed descriptions bring these historical figures to life, making 'The Queens of England' a captivating read for history enthusiasts and scholars alike. Agnes Strickland's dedication to researching and documenting the lives of these influential women shines through in this timeless classic, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the fascinating world of English royalty.