Book Review: Lady in Waiting

Jane Lindsay and Jane Grey are two completely different women living in two separate worlds. Time periods even.

Jane Lindsay is struggling through a rough marriage when her husband walks out of their home in Manhattan saying he needs space. Jane trudges through her life, not knowing what she wants or how to be happy. In a box full of antiques from a sale in Wales, Jane happens across a ring inscribed with Latin and her own name, Jane.

Lucy Day is the dressmaker to a young Lady Jane Grey and observes her royal life from the background. In the sixteenth-century, Lady Jane has no power over her life. Shuffled from one house to the next, never settling in a world of uncertainty. Jane is bound by duty to her family, to the King, and to her country. But not to herself. In a time where politics and religion fueled political status, Jane is caught in the crossfire that leaves her wondering if she can choose her fate.

As the two Janes discover their destiny, their shared passion for one ring intertwines their worlds. Both must understand that they have control, but only if they choose to have their own life.

Susan Meissner wrote a splendid work of historical fiction that will appease any Tudor history buff. It is the perfect combination of modern and old. The different points-of-view are seamless and well thought out. On top of that, there is the fact that I couldn't put it down once I started reading it. I read the entire book in just seven hours!

Also, Meissner wrote in some very strong thematic elements. These aspects will make the reader think about their life in a new way as well as inspire the reader to choose for themselves rather than someone else.

I would recommend this to anyone with a passion for history. It doesn't strike me as the kind of book most men would pick up and read, but the genre definitely appeals to women. Meissner presents some strong female characters; although they struggle with problems, they learn to find themselves in the process.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review and received no monetary compensation. I just do this for my own enjoyment. If you feel you might be interested, visit their website, Blogging for Books.