The Marriage Game

A Novel of Queen Elizabeth I

By: Alison Weir

Narrated by: Julia Franklin

In this compelling novel of Tudor drama and suspense, acclaimed author Alison Weir brings to life one of England's most scandalous royal love affairs: the romance between the "Virgin Queen" Elizabeth I and her courtier Lord Robert Dudley. Only 25 and newly crowned, Elizabeth vows to rule the country as both queen and king. But her counselors continually press her to form an advantageous marriage and produce an heir. Though none of the suitors have yet worked their way to her throne, the dashing - though married - Lord Robert lays claim to Elizabeth's heart. Their flagrant flirting, their unescorted outings, and the appointment of Lord Robert to Master of Horse inspire whispers through the court, and even rumors that Elizabeth has secretly given birth to Lord Robert's child.

Events take a dark turn when Robert's wife is found dead. Universal shock is followed by accusations of murder. Despite the scandal, Elizabeth and Robert manage to navigate the choppy political, economic, and religious waters around them. But the greatest obstacle to marriage between the Queen and her true love may come not from outside forces, but from within.

©2014 Alison Weir (P)2014 W. F. Howes

Great performance as Elizabeth I

Loved this performance - the narrator captured the essence of Elizabeth I with wonder. The story is a bit slow and tedious, but overall captures her life and relationships well.

Love the historical fiction and personal point of view , the narrator made the book very displeasing

This audiobook would have been vastly better if a different narrator had been chosen. The narrator’s voice is painfully cringeworthy and makes the story extremely difficult to endure. It is overly high-pitched and accompanied by an obnoxious lisp that becomes impossible to ignore. I came very close to quitting within the first chapter, and the only reason I continued was because of my strong interest in the subject matter itself. Had the content been even slightly less compelling, I would have stopped listening immediately. The narrator’s voice actively detracts from the experience and deserves negative stars, it is genuinely hard on the ears.

Made me cry.

This book made me cry. It was the epic tale of Elizabeth's true love with her "Sweet Robin" measuring her stride for stride as an equal in a partnership that lasted over 30 years. They say his name was her last words. I'm not sure if that's true, but it should be.

Great Story

I enjoyed this story but not the narrator. It continues the story from the last book in the duo. They should have used the narrator from the first book

Very enlightening piece of history!

I couldn’t stop listening! What an amazing view of Elisabeth’s life told through her own eyes! I love the personal view & the ideas of what may have happened which explains why she never wanted to marry! Well done Alison Weir! As all of her books are!!