(4) YA European Queens series. The life and death of the queen, as well as the politics of her time, are presented here in meticulous detail. The dense text can be overwhelming and occasionally dull, and despite the plethora of information provided, readers don't get a strong sense of Mary's personality. Photos, maps, and illustrations provide excellent supplements to the text. Timeline, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Abby Harper Kingsbury

(4) YA European Queens series. Whether they came to the throne through their own machinations or because they were next in line, these five women made history-altering contributions--both good and bad--to their respective countries. While the books don't neglect to discuss the intrigues and assignations of these monarchs, the laudatory tone downplays each ruler's flaws. Black-and-white and crisp color reproductions appear throughout. Timeline, websites. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers these European Queens titles: Marie Antoinette and the Decline of the French Monarchy, Catherine de'Medici and the Protestant Reformation, Catherine the Great and the Enlightenment in Russia, Queen Isabella and the Unification of Spain, and Queen Victoria and the British Empire.

Reviewer: Jeannine M. Chapman