MARGARET IRWIN: ELIZABETH AND THE PRINCE OF SPAIN (Allison & Busby PB

Philip of Spain, unwilling bridegroom of Queen Mary, has been warned about the Queen's half-sister, the young Elizabeth, daughter of Anne Boleyn. According to all reports, she is a heretic, a rebel and a potential enemy with 'a spirit full of enchantment'. But Philip is not deterred, and Elizabeth must advance warily towards her destiny, running the gauntlet between Bloody Mary's jealousy and morbid outbursts of hate, and Philip's uneasy ardour... Second only to Jean Plaidy in the last century, but now overtaken by Philippa Gregory and others. Still very readable, though.

CARO PEACOCK: DEATH AT DAWN (Harper PB)

Duelling, derring-do, and dastardly deeds are all in a day's work for Liberty Lane: a new heroine for fans of Matthew Hawkwood and Sarah Waters's Victorian novels. Thomas Jacques Lane -- radical, romantic, scholar and devoted father -- had led an unconventional life but of one thing his daughter, Liberty, is certain: he would never have taken part in a duel. So when she receives a note informing her of his death in just such a manner, Liberty ignores all advice and sets off in pursuit of the truth. With no resources bar her wits, she travels to the Continent and back in search of her father's killer. And as the nation prepares for the coronation of a young Victoria, Liberty uncovers murder and treachery at the very highest levels! I've never been a huge fan of Caro Peacock - I just think other people do this type of thing so much better.