A wonderful and insightful read into the life and short lived reign of Queen Mary I of England. Prescott seems to take pity on the often misunderstood Queen, showing us reason as to why she was often indecisive, and ruled by emotions of the heart. Prescott explores the inaccurate title "Bloody Mary" given to the Queen during her attempt to return England to the "True Faith". He also discusses the issue of who was really behind and in favor of the persecutions of the protestant population. Prescott gives us a look at the ill fated marriage of Queen Mary to Phillip King of Spain and Holy Roman Emperor (the latter title came later in the marriage)and discusses how this marriage had a direct and disastrous effect on England. This biography is wonderfully written and gives unique accounts and interesting introspection and understanding of the sorrow filled, tumultuous, and disappointing life and reign of Queen Mary I.