Book Review: The Virgin Queen's Daughter by Ella March Chase

Throughout history there has been much speculation regarding whether Queen Elizabeth I was indeed the “Virgin Queen” or if she bore a child, in secret, as a very young woman. The historical fiction novel, The Virgin Queen’s Daughter, explores this possibility.
The story begins as young Mistress Elinor de Lacey (Nell) has a chance encounter at the Tower of London with the imprisoned Princess Elizabeth. Elizabeth is intrigued with the child and promises her a chance to serve as a lady-in-waiting when Elizabeth takes her rightful place as queen.
Years pass and Nell is summoned to court as promised. Nell is unusual for a young woman in the 16th century; she has an independent mind and she is well versed in philosophy, language and science. Her mother was a lady-in-waiting to Katherine Parr and is vehemently opposed to Nell joining Elizabeth’s court. She knows the danger and vulgarity of royal service. Nell’s mother and nursemaid also harbor a secret that could bring imprisonment or a worse fate to the family. Nell’s love-hate relationship with Sir Gabriel Wyatt adds romance and sexual tension. As the story unfolds, more potential evidence of Nell’s parentage adds to the turmoil of English politics.
Ella March Chase’s debut novel takes the reader to the lavish but dangerous court of Queen Elizabeth I. She offers vivid descriptions of time and place. Her characters are well-developed and engaging. Though it is historical fiction, The Virgin Queen’s Daughter allows the reader to explore the possibility that Elizabeth I was not the “Virgin Queen” after all.
-Linda (Downtown)