Difficult to follow, at first. Primary source details on Marguerite of Anjou, Cecily Neville, Margaret of Burgundy, Margaret Beaufort. John Leland.

Highly recommended. Definitely helped me place Margaret of Anjou in time and background. Now can keep Cecily Neville and Elizabeth Woodville straight.
Lots of speculation of course, but more clear about was is speculation than other readings.

I must confess that I did not finish this book. It wasn't really the fault of the book; it is substantial and I liked the device of beginning each chapter with a quote from one of Shakespeare's history plays. However, because three of the seven women chronicled in this book are named Margaret, significant attention is required in order to tell them apart, and I simply don't have that level of attention at present. But if you do, I would recommend checking this book out. ( )

This book tells the stories of 7 women who are all connected. There are cousin connections, mother-in-law and daughter-in-law connections, and so much more. It not only told the stories of 7 women but showed how they were all part of one bigger story. ( )

Another one of my War of the Roses read I enjoyed Blood Sisters because it dealt with the women of the family. Most historians focus on the obvious part of the War of the Roses the men of the York and Lancaster families. However women like Marguerite of Anjou, Margaret of Burgundy and Margaret Beaufort were strong and powerful women who rose Armies!

You can tell that this book has been well researched and the history is all correct, while bringing to mind the pomp and pageants of the time period. I enjoy when I can see ceremonies that I have studied put to page and explained well. Sarah Gristwood really has created something that those new to the time period, or who are familiar with it like me will enjoy.

Of course if you are looking for a fictionalized account of the seven women covered in this book Blood Sisters is not the book for you. Sarah Gristwood has created a historical non fiction piece of work that is both educational and enjoyable. I know a lot of people who enjoy fictions don't want to read the non fiction because they think it will be boring, but Blood Sisters is not it really draws you in. You get a lot of great information but it is presented in a way that is easy to understand and almost could be a non fiction. I would recommend this one to history fans and those who are just getting into it alike. You will enjoy it and hopefully have a better understanding of the women behind the War of the Roses. ( )