Come to my book launch!, The Tudor Origins of the 'united kingdom' and a Salad of Lemons
And just like that, it’s February! I hope you’ve had a good start to the year. I’m busy writing the last few chapters of my second history book with Pen and Sword Books on the Tudor era. It offers a new look at some of the key personalities of the period, and I’ve loved writing it so far. Just a couple more chapters to go, and I’ll be ready to send it off for the May deadline.
Talking of books, this month my first book, Forgotten Women of the Wars of the Roses will be released. I can’t wait for you to read about the roles duchesses, countesses and even forgotten queens played in the conflict, but there were so many other women whose names don’t normally gain a mention in our history books, too. Find out more about the book here - it’s out for pre-order now - or let me know if you’d like a signed copy.
If you can get to Reading, I’d love you to come along to my book launch, which will be held at MADEbyTamalia, a beautiful and quirky art studio in Caversham. A number of local artists will also be showing work they’ve done relating to the theme, and have been sharing sneak peeks as they work on social media. They’ll be there with some more of their work and for a chat, and I’ll be signing books! I’ll also have some of my portraits of the women on display, many created from descriptions of them or from their effigies. Tickets start from £1 for entry to the event plus a welcome drink, and £25 for entry to the event, welcome drink, signed hardback copy of the book and a goody bag of related treats! You can find out more and book your tickets here. The venue is just a 10-15 minute walk from Reading station so it’s easy to get to, and there’s plenty of free parking if you’re driving. It would be great to see you there!
Over on the blog, I had a think about an often forgotten Tudor plan to unite the nations of England and Scotland and call it ‘Brittaines’. It involved a proposed marriage between Edward VI and Mary Queen of Scots, and the countries ended up going to all-out war over it. I also posted up a new historic recipe, called Sallett of Lemons. I’m not sure what it was used for, but after trying it, hedged my bets on a side dish when eating salty bacon or fish.
I’m still sketching, and have an exhibition in Reading next month, so I’m also creating new work for that. I’ll share details over on my @sketcherjoey Instagram and Facebook pages.
That’s all for now! Hope you have a great weekend and month ahead. I’ll keep you posted on my Facebook and Instagram channels with any news in the meantime. See you next month!
Jo x
PS You can access Forgotten Women of the Wars of the Roses bonus content on my YouTube channel here. It’ll be updated with new videos for the rest of this month.