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The Other Queen cover art

The Other Queen

By: Philippa Gregory
Narrated by: Richard Armitage, Alex Kingston, Madeleine Leslay
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Summary

*A stunning unabridged recording, available on audio download*

A dramatic novel of passion, politics and betrayal from the No.1 bestselling author of The Other Boleyn Girl.

1568. Mary Queen of Scots, fleeing rebellion in her kingdom, is offered a safe haven by Elizabeth I with George Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury, and his indomitable wife, Bess of Hardwick. The arrival of an extravagant queen turns the household upside down, as it becomes clear that the visit is a house arrest.

Queen Mary makes Bess’ hard-won house a centre for unrest and treason, and – perhaps worst of all – Mary Queen of Scots’ fabled beauty starts to work on the Tudor loyalist, Bess’ own husband, George.

The two women fight for their own rights: Mary to regain the crown and the kingdom of Scotland; Bess to win back her husband and houses. A third woman can decide: Elizabeth the First, and nobody knows how far she will go to protect her own safety.

With an exclusive afterword written and read by Philippa Gregory, exploring the inspiration behind The Other Queen.

©2011 Philippa Gregory (P)2018 HarperCollins Publishers

Critic reviews

"Written from instinct, not out of calculation, and it shows." (Peter Ackroyd, The Times)

"For sheer pace and percussive drama it will take a lot of beating." (Sunday Times)

"Gregory is great at conjuring a Tudor film-set of gorgeous gowns and golden-lattered dining. She invokes some swoonsome images...while the politics are personal enough to remain pertinent." (Daily Telegraph)

What listeners say about The Other Queen

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Historical personalities brought to life

Initially I was not used to narration by 3 voices. So I was hesitant. However, as ever, Phillipa Gregory succeeded in creating a detailed fascinating insight into the main characters. Definitely worth reading.

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Wonderful performance and interesting story

The three actors brought the character's to life fabulously. It's easy to sympathise and empathise with each person in turn, despite their differing motives from time to time. It was a pleasure to read and very difficult to switch off!

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Excellent

Fascinating tale. Having 3 readers works really well. Definitely recommended.
. . . . .

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A story about real people

I have read many stories about Mary Queen of Scots. But this is the first which treats the people involved as real people, with real feelings. Real fears, real hopes and disappointments, real regrets. Reading this book opened up my mind to these historical figures as people just like us, but living in a different time and circumstances. Well done, Philippa Gregory!

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Brilliant.

Omg I love this. I returned it once and I don't know why. The male narrator really drew me in with his voice. I'm gonna listen again and again. The women narrators were fab but the guys voice wow. I felt like he was talking to me I actually did. I have no idea why I returned this I didn't give it a chance. I'm so glad I got it back as I'll listen to anything about Mary Queen Of Scots. Love Philippa Gregory x

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Great reading of another classic by Phillips Gregory

Enjoyed the book, the readings were great but needed to increase the volume when listening to the male voice and often turn it down when Bess was speaking.

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Loved it

Loved this book. I had no idea about the other queen's life. We were never taught much about her in English history but she was such an integral part.

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really enjoyed this book

I loved the story of Mary Queen of Scotts. following the twists was engaging. the only element that was disappointing was not capturing Mary's own view when she realised she was to be executed. it would of been good reading to of told the story of Elizabeth I not knowing her privy council had carried it out without her knowing also.

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A Great Listen

I really enjoyed this audiobook from start to finish. The short passages between narration I find a good way of keeping tabs on all the intricacies of each character. Philliipa has, as usual, a fantastic way of keeping us entertained.
Lewis

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voices of the past

All three characters were very human and having them read individually made me feel like I was getting to know each person's deep secrets. Love a good story like this when it has been based on events.

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1 person found this helpful