THE OTHER QUEEN by Philippa Gregory, Touchstone Books, stated First Edition: September 2008. 

Hardcover Advance Reading Copy (ARC). ARC's are circulated to bookstores before the release of a book in order to stir up buzz and familiarize booksellers with what (hopefully) will be a big demand title. Because of their pre-release status, many book collectors and bibliophiles consider ARC's to be the "true" first editions.  

Two women competing for a man's heart - Two queens fighting to the death for dominance - The untold story of Mary, Queen of Scots!

Biographers often neglect the captive years of Mary, Queen of Scots, who trusted Queen Elizabeth's promise of sanctuary when she fled from rebels in Scotland and then found herself imprisoned as the "guest" of George Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury, and his indomitable wife, Bess of Hardwick.

The newly married couple welcomes the doomed queen into their home, certain that serving as her hosts and jailers will bring them an advantage in the cutthroat world of the Elizabethan court. To their horror, they find that the task will bankrupt them, and as their home becomes the epicenter of intrigue and rebellion against Elizabeth, their loyalty to each other and to their sovereign comes into question. If Mary succeeds in seducing the earl into her own web of treachery and treason, or if the great spymaster William Cecil links them to the growing conspiracy to free Mary from her illegal imprisonment, they will all face the headsman. 

This dazzling novel from the #1 New York Times bestselling author Philippa Gregory presents a new and unique view of one of history's most intriguing, romantic, and maddening heroines; a tale full of suspense, passion, and political intrigue!

438-page hardcover in excellent, unread condition. Binding is tight, pages are clean and bright. Dust jacket is bright and unmarked.

Always Low Shipping is just $2.00 in the US, $3.00 to Canada. No other international shipping offered.

Payment accepted in the form of personal checks (must clear before shipping), money orders, or PayPal.

Please e-mail with any questions prior to bidding, and interested parties with negative feedback, please e-mail before bidding or risk being disqualified.

Thank you for looking, and good luck!