actual rating: 3.5 stars
when i saw a book about jane seymour, i jumped to the opportunity to read it. the tudor era might be overdone but it has remained one of those eras i have loved since i was a teenager and i keep returning to it. jane is particularly fascinating to me because of how little we know of her.

and this was an incredibly pleasant experience. while sometimes it veers a bit into 'too much' territory for my taste, i couldn't put it down and all i wanted was to keep reading and read what the 'truth' was (to be clear: this is historical fiction, this is not a historically accurate retelling). i also read this before reading the other books in the series and while you obviously won't catch everything, you can understand everything that's happening in the past and almost all from the present timeline because the author refreshes some of the events of what's happened so far.

as far as what i didn't enjoy, it was truly very little. maybe some theories went into the 'too much' territory, and sometimes things got a bit corny for my taste, but that might be a matter of taste. if you enjoy conspiracy theories and finding out what 'really' happened, this was very fun.

overall, it was very intriguing and i wanted to keep reading to know more and what had happened, what were the answers. i enjoyed my time through it and flew through it because i wanted to finish it. also: this book reminded me how much i do still adore the tudors period.

I have read and enjoyed all the books in this series -The Marquess House - it was meant to be a trilogy, however, Alexandra states that Jane’s story kept arising and I am so glad she put pen to paper for this one. It was a breath of fresh air to see the demure Jane portrayed with strength and spunk! If you love English history, particularly the Tudor period, then this is most definitely the series for you. I believe it is essential that you read all the books in sequence for both the historical events and present day character development to make sense. Both narratives - past and present - in all books thus far are engaging and entertaining.

As with Alexandra’s previous books, this instalment 'The Jane Seymour Conspiracy' is a massively researched undertaking that is structured and planned to perfection. The historical premise of an alternate narrative to this Tudor period is so well written that it appears entirely plausible. This is linked wonderfully well with the present day and the theory that there are movements to suppress undiscovered truths. As in dual time narratives, it requires a solid link between the two stories to work and I believe Alexandra weaves the two together well. If you love a good conspiracy theory then this series has them by the dozen.

‘Throughout her life, Jane had been schooled to understand her destiny was not her own to choose, that her husband would be selected for her and she would live a life decreed by the men around her. Yet, here was a group of women asking her to become involved in political intrigue. It was a heady feeling and the idea tingled with danger.’

The last book went a little off track for me, so I am happy to report that this instalment was right up there with the original book one. These are long reads and the amount of information can become overwhelming at times. I loved reading about Catherine Howard (book 1) and Elizabeth Tudor (book 2) . I did not warm to Arbella Stuart (book 3) but Jane Seymour’s story (book 4) is wonderful. You simply must suspend your rational thinking and just enjoy the ‘what ifs’ proposed - it’s fun pursuing a mystery. The current day story still offers its own mystery, overlooking the information dumps by the lead characters and their interacting dialogue often basic and robotic at times.

“… check the manuscript and discover what really happened to Jane Seymour. There is something strange here and my heart tells me there was no happy ending for anyone this time.”

Jane Seymour (third wife of Henry VIII) is such an interesting character to study. As Alexandra herself writes: “Often passed over for the more dramatic queens of Henry VIII, to me her depiction as the demure, shy wife has never tallied with the description of her behaviour - flirting with the king, accepting gifts, preparing her marriage chest while Anne was in the Tower of London, attempting to persuade Henry to return to Catholicism and trying to bring his two daughters, Mary and Elizabeth, back into Henry’s lives. These are the actions of a woman who knows how to survive and has a strong streak of determination, not an inexperienced wallflower.”

“Jane is there,” Perdita had said, “but she’s in the shadows and we need to bring her forward into the light.”

Overall, I really enjoyed this series. It proved fascinating reading but be warned it is an intriguing yet complex read. For those who love a good conspiracy theory related to the Tudors you simply must read the books of the The Marquess House series. This book will truly make you reconsider the current accepted historical facts and warm your heart that in this male dominated world, female solidarity likely existed.








This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.

This is an historical book with substance, interest, intrigue and I just enjoyed if form start to finish.

I have not heard or read any of the first three books in this saga/series but having had a look they were all about different people in time so not reading them has not affected my reading and enjoyment of this book.

A great dual-timeline story with mystery that needs solving, a different take on events of the past and all wrapped up in a very interesting and intriguing time. It is a well researched and believable account, it is well written and easy to read and understand and it is very entertaining and informative.

I will now have to go find the other three books as I am intrigued and excited to read more!

The Jane Seymour Conspiracy takes us to present day London, where twin sisters and heiresses to Marquis House are conducting research and piecing together what they believe is the true history of the reign of King Henry VIII and his multiple wives. The book alternates between present day and the 1500s when these events are taking place.

While the title intrigued me and the description fit with the types of books I like to read, the story was tedious to get through and filled with so many names and details that I had to mentally filter out what elements I believed were irrelevant to the plot. Clearly, the author knows her stuff and must have done a tremendous amount of research. The book was written well, but ultimately I just wanted to get through it. Unfortunately, I just didn't care much about the present day characters.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for an advance e-reader copy of this book.

Reading about the Tudors is one of my favorite things to do. They’re fascinating! Learning that maybe history didn’t happen exactly as recorded is just as fascinating. Piper and Perdita are heiresses and owners of Marquess House, left to them by their grandmother. They find a mysterious manuscript that may be written by Jane Seymour, Henry VIII’s third wife. It tells a different story of the rise and fall of Anne Boleyn and Jane. They must beware though. There are those who would hurt them to get what Piper and Perdita already have.

I really enjoyed the story. I loved how they built up the women during the Tudor era and inferred that they may have had more power and influence than history (and men) gave them credit for. Girl power! The alternate version of events presented are realistic and it’s empowering to imagine they happened that way. I do think I would’ve enjoyed it much more if I’d realized it was part of a series. There were allusions to events and knowledge from previous books that I didn’t have. I’ll definitely pick the others up to read!

A Mystery involving Jane Seymour but it was that I didn't care for even though it was dual time one. Hey not every book is for every reader.

London 1527

A young Jane Seymour arrives to take her place in the court of Katherine of Aragon. With Henry VIII desperate for a son to continue his dynasty, he already has his eye on another woman, namely Jane’s cousin, Anne Boleyn. Jane soon realises that those at court are beginning to side with each of the women and when both fall out of favour with Henry, she fears he may begin to look in her direction.

Pembrokeshire 2020

When a document, The Pentagram Manuscript, is discovered, Perdita and Piper are once again thrown back into the world of Tudor England uncovering evidence that could completely change public perception of Jane Seymour. Trouble is also close at hand when their cousin, Xavier, once again is determined to ensure that Marquess House and everything else the sisters inherited from their grandmother, is passed down to his daughters. Knowing he will stop at nothing to achieve his goal, they find themselves in grave danger, fearing for their lives and the lives of those they love.

When I found out that what was originally The Marquess House trilogy was being extended, I was ecstatic and have waited patiently for this fourth instalment. Alexandra Walsh again takes us back to Tudor England, painting a vivid picture of life at the court of Henry VIII, introducing us to the many fascinating characters of the period. I love how fact and fiction are merged seamlessly, leaving us trying to work out what is historically accepted and what is straight out of the imagination of the author.

The modern sections of the book are equally readable and kept me on the edge of my seat as I waited to discover what secrets they would discover at Marquess House this time. I love the ‘race against time’ aspect of these books and am quite jealous of the archives the sisters have access to in order to carry out their research! In Xavier, we have an antagonist of the highest order and with his world crumbling around him, it was terrifying to see how he would do anything to remove Perdita and Piper from what is rightfully theirs.

The Jane Seymour Conspiracy is another excellent addition to the series and I hope that this isn’t the end for Perdita and Piper and their adventures at Marquess House.

I am not sure why I've never found this series. I love all things Tudor. But, I am new to this author, so this book was my first. It will not be my last.

I very much enjoyed the dual timelines - the modern and the Tudor times told in alternating chapters. I came into this with already-formed notions about Jane Seymour. I've read many books, listened to many podcasts, etc. And I enjoy how the author rethinks her personality and offers a fresh take, although I am not sure how historically accurate it is.

Still, this rethinking makes for great reading, and I enjoyed the fast-paced mysteries woven through the book. This is a fast, enjoyable read, and I'd look forward to reading this entire series. I was given a copy of this book from NetGalley, but this opinion is my own.

The Marquess House Trilogy introduced an alternative history of life in the Tudor court of King Henry the Eighth and his wives. This book is the fourth and continues in the same vein, this time concerning some very surprising discoveries about Jane Seymour. This is fiction, but it is a very imaginative retelling of established facts. The usage of actual documents, , the Pentagram Manuscript, and the Devonshire Manuscript, are a huge bonus and helps to raise some very intriguing and wholly believable scenarios that paint a very different picture of Jane. Usually portrayed as modest, devout and dull, the author has created a very sparky and lively alternative to the normal viewpoint, rather refreshingly girlish and happy. This reveals delightful insights into a complicated King and his followers, where the machinations of power and fear are brilliantly realised. How accurate is Tudor history, and why was the role of women so ignored.
Dual time lines of 1527 and 2020, show great historical fiction and a modern day treasure hunt combining to create a marvellous story. It is best to start with the first book in the Marquess House trilogy, The Catherine Howard conspiracy, otherwise the spiders web of intrigue might not grip as tightly! Meticulous research that turns history on its head. Pure escapism and a sheer delight to read, fingers crossed for book 5.
Perfect reading for fans of Alison Weir and Philippa Gregory, a definite 5 star read.

An enjoyable read and one that no doubt will be on many people’s piles at the beach over the summer, it’s characters are very engaging

I received a copy of The Jane Seymour Conspiracy via NetGalley to read and review.

I enjoy historical fiction even though it’s not a genre I typically read. I’m glad that I took a break from my go-to genres to read The Jane Seymour Conspiracy. My only regret is that I didn’t look into the book more before I read since it is actually the fourth book in the series. I was able to follow everything with no issue but will probably go back and read the first three books. The current day story line with Perdita and Piper was just as interesting as Walsh’s take on 1500s Europe.

Obviously not everything written is historically accurate (which the author has a note at the end stating where she took liberties); even so I really like what she did and definitely recommend!

I was looking forward to reading this book as this is one of my favourite eras. The book was good but left you wondering what was true and what wasn't. You find out in the end but left me feeling what was the point.

I love the Marquess House books. After studying Tudor history for A-Level I have had a life long love of the era, and these books bring many of the historical figures to life. Whilst they are not 100% historically accurate they weave an intricate story of what might have happened in the Tudor court under Henry VIII and his heirs. This latest addition is based around Henry’s third wife, Jane Seymour, his supposed favourite and mother to his only legitimate son. Perdita and Piper solve another mystery surrounding the Tudor papers left to them by their grandmother and it seems that Henry’s wife may not have been his favourite after all.
Great book.

I love historical fiction.and I love thrillers and so this was a perfect read for me, nevermind that my favourite period of history is the Tudors. I couldn't put this book down, I was gripped right from the start and engaged all the way through.

I had to remind myself a few times when reading The Jane Seymour Conspiracy by Alexandra Walsh that this was fiction. I read it one sitting to find out what happens to Jane Seymour even though I know what actually happened to Jane Seymour!
I received a copy of this book for a free and unbiased opinion
Even though this is the Fourth book in The Marquess House Saga, I could just jump straight into the story without having read the other books. The author gives just enough information about the characters and plot in 2020 without too much of an infodump.
The story is set between two timeframes- from Perdita’s POV in 2020 and Jane’s POV in the Tutor period. While Perdita is a typical modern-day heroine- clever, brave and loyal, Jane’s character is an absolute surprise. Jane Seymour is usually described as Anne’s Boleyn opposite- devout, unflashy and passive- so the author’s take on Jane was so much more interesting.
Jane in this book is far more knowledgeable about the world, rebellious and plays an important part in the Tudor court behind the scenes and is much more feisty and interesting. The conspiracy the book alludes to is breathtakingly original and it is a pity I can’t say more without spoiling the story.
The two stories in both timelines converge nicely towards the end but not without action and peril for Perdita and Piper and their loved ones.
I do like the author’s take on the women of the Tudor period- many books tend to show them pitted against each other but this book shows female solidarity ( in both times) which was heart-warming.
I would like to more about the Marquess House Saga and will definitely be reading more in this series.
Content warning
Pregnancy loss, death of a child,references to rape and domestic violence
Perfect for fans of
Historical fiction set in the Tudor Period eg Phillipa Gregory, Alison Weir

The Marquess House Saga is fabulous.

Great historical fiction and modern day historical treasure hunting mysteries and adventure combined.

There is enough of a recap and backstory for this to work as a standalone, but I highly recommend evading the whole series.

The premise for the series is that everything we know about Tudor history is wrong.

Over the years, documents have been destroyed or falsified to leave us with a sanitised version of the Tudor which while still shocking and fascinating to historians, is ultimately a fabrication. The story of the Tudor Court, Henry VIII and his six wives, and his children, is far more complex and deadly than we believe.

Walsh exploits the real gaps in historical record to create a fascinating world in which the women of the Tudor Court have more power and intelligence than merely the clichéd historical versions.

This book focuses on Anne Boleyn and Jane Seymour – cousins and wives. Traditionally Anne is devious and manipulative, ambitious and cruel, while Jane is demour and sweet. The perfect wife for whom Henry grieved after her death. In Walsh’s version there is a lot more to Jane then meets the eye. While both Jane and Anne are being used by the men in their families ti gain power and influence, they also have a voice of their own.

Piper and Perdita find a mysterious vault of documents and art that had been hidden in a storage facility. Hidden in one of the documents is the real story of Jane Seymour and Anne Boleyn and a plot to overthrow the King.

The narrative is split between Jane Seymour in the Tudor Court and modern day Pembrokeshire where Perita and Piper are again under threat from Xavier Connors, who will stop at nothing to get his hands on what he sees as his birthright.

The revelations about Jane Seymour reinforce his belief that his daughters are the true heirs of the Marquess House legacy and fortune.

This is such a fantastic series. I have loved every book! This is another great mystery that has some genuinely shocking moments. While obviously fiction, it certainly makes you think about the way in which the accepted versions of the past may have been manipulated.

Thank you Netgalley for my gifted digital version of The Jane Seymour Conspiracy. One of my favourite books of the year so far!

Oh how I've been waiting for this book to be released. For me it certainly did not disappointment. If you have not read the previous three books, STOP. To get the full enjoyment you need to read the books in order. Alexandra Walsh is the mistress of the pen. Taking you between Pembrokeshire and the court of king Henry VIII.

This book starts with Jane Seymour in 1527. She is being brought to the Royal court to serve Queen Katherine of Aragon. However, as she fails to produce a longed for son Henry's interest wains. In the wings ready to step in is Anne Boleyn. Second cousin to Jane. Plans are afoot to make sure that Henry is granted a son. But at what cost. What life is Jane giving up to be in Royal court and will her secrets be found out.

In current day Piper and Perdita are still at Marquess House. Their second cousin Xavier Connors is dead set on acquiring the estate by whatever means he can. Can the twins discover more secrets of Henry's court to protect the Marquess House legacy.

I can't rate these books highly enough. Perfect for book clubs. I really hope Alexandra Walsh ' The Purple Mermaid' can find a way to continue this series.. Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to see an ARC

I had really enjoyed this series so much. It's such an excellent blend of historical fiction and history. This was another excellent addition to the series. I'm really hoping that the author plans on doing all of the Queens since she's now gone through three of them. I'd be coming best in all of the characters and it's so interesting learning some of the back detail of the historical happenings. I'm an amateur historian and while I understand that some of the history is tweaked to fit into the story it's obvious that the author has done her research. I read this book in one sitting and really enjoyed it. I'm hoping that she plans on writing book 5 in the series.

The Jane Seymour Conspiracy by Alexandra Walsh

This is the fourth in a series but can also be a stand alone.
I love reading anything about the Tudor period and this one , mainly about Jane Seymour did not disappoint
The author mixes fact and fiction , which for me added to the book and made it more readable.
I also enjoyed the dual timeline to it and the way the story entwined.