Book Synopsis From the author of The Queens Mistake comes the untold story of King Henry VIIIs first well-known mistress. As the beautiful daughter of courtiers, Elizabeth Bessie Blount is overjoyed when she secures a position as maid of honor to Katherine of Aragon. But when she captures the attention of the king himself, there are whispers that the queen ought to be worried for her throne. When Bess gives birth to a healthy son the whispers become a roar. But soon the infamous Boleyn girls come to court and Henrys love for her begins to fade. Now, Bess must turn to her trusted friend, the illegitimate son of Cardinal Wolsey, to help her move beyond life as the queens rival... About the Author Diane Haeger is the author of several novels of historical and womens fiction, including four novels set in the court of King Henry VIII: I, Jane ; The Queens Rival ; The Queens Mistake; and The Secret Bride . She has a degree in English literature and an advanced degree in clinical psychology, which she credits with helping her bring to life complicated characters and their relationships. She lives with her husband and children.