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I’ve read several Sally Watson books over the years and, truthfully, have often come away discouraged. Her stories tend to be marred by exaggerated feminist tropes that feel more political than authentic—out of step with the historical settings they seek to represent. That disconnect is maddening, especially when recommending titles to younger readers who may not have enough historical context to see where history is being misrepresented to serve a current socio-political agenda.
But this particular book came highly recommended by my friend Tanya Arnold, whose instincts about historical fiction I trust. I was surprised to find myself not only finishing the novel, but enjoying it. The author’s note at the end helped clarify why: this was the second book she wrote, originally published in the 1950s—before her later, more strident works of the 1980s. There’s a restraint and passion for history here that I’ve missed in her later writing.
The story follows a fiery young woman named Valerie, born under the sign of Leo and according to her parents, ruled by it. Val’s noble birth doesn’t come with wealth, and she’s raised for several years by indulgent childless relatives who compare her royal temperament to their distant cousin, Queen Elizabeth. But when her parents are appointed to a diplomatic role in France, they’re forced to acknowledge that Val’s relentless temper and defiance might be disastrous in courtly circles. To break her will, they send her to stricter relatives—where, after a brutal whipping, Val takes matters into her own hands and runs away.
Disguised as a boy, she joins a troupe of traveling actors. She’s naturally gifted, if difficult, and her journey toward maturity begins as she learns the value of discipline, humility, and collaboration. This group of people becomes a good influence on her character and she wishes to live peaceably with them if she can just learn to control her whims and temper.
Eventually, Val is noticed by Mister Burbage of the Globe Theatre and joins his company, where she meets William Shakespeare himself. Their friendship is warm and respectful, and he becomes a mentor who gently helps shape both her craft and her character.
The story is lively and imaginative, echoing many of Shakespeare’s plays. Val’s personal growth is not only believable but meaningful. This is one of those rare historical novels where the character development of the protagonist is not only authentic but also can serve to inspire young readers.
Watson’s note also mentions that some critics believe the film Shakespeare in Love may have taken inspiration from this novel, reworking its premise for adult audiences. Frankly, it is easy to imagine that is true.
There is, however, a glaring historical error worth noting. The book asserts that Queen Elizabeth was universally beloved, that she kept clear of religious matters, and that her execution of Mary was an act of peacekeeping to bring about an end to the religious wars. Anyone who has studied the English Reformation, particularly from a Catholic or historically honest Protestant perspective, will see the problem here. Elizabeth’s persecution of Catholics was both brutal and far-reaching. I was genuinely shocked to see that part so grossly misrepresented.
Even so, with a beautifully restrained romance, an engaging backdrop of Elizabethan theatre, and a compelling mentorship from Shakespeare himself, this would be an excellent choice for teen readers of many backgrounds. The audio version, read by Virtual Voice, is also quite good.