They also clarified the organization and the proceedings, and really accentuated Jane’s vulnerability: she was the youngest royal woman to be condemned for treason, and it must have been an utterly terrifying experience. The contents of the documents really helped to contextualize the trial and the events leading up to it. It’s a brilliant feeling and a real privilege being able to handle original documents, and through this alone I got a real sense of immersion into the period. What did the trial documents add to your knowledge of Jane and Guildford? With this in mind I really tried to concentrate on the human and emotional aspects of her story and bringing those to the fore, while at the same time retaining historical accuracy. I really wanted to highlight that Jane was a real person who existed on more than the pages of books. One thing that struck me whilst I was researching was that over the years so many myths have attached themselves to Jane, that the real her has become somewhat obscure. What does your book add to existing works about Lady Jane? I’m glad that I did as it’s been a fascinating experience, and she has been an intriguing subject for a first book. It was only when I started delving around in various archives that I realised that there was more to say about Jane, and that she deserved a fresh appraisal. Initially I actually spent some time researching and writing about Jane’s mother, Lady Frances Brandon. Why did you choose this subject for your book?
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