Following her father’s unprecedented ascent to become de facto ruler of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, Frances Cromwell has moved from her rural childhood home to the sumptuous surroundings of the palaces of Hampton Court and Whitehall.
In dramatic contrast to life on their Cambridgeshire farm, Frances and her three sisters attend masques and banquets, are served by ladies-in-waiting, and enjoy the attentions of everyone at court, who bow and curtsy to ‘Their Highnesses’.
These are uncertain times however, and an assassination attempt makes Frances and her sister Mary determined not to die without first experiencing true love. But when Oliver is officially offered the crown, Frances’s romantic quest suddenly assumes diplomatic and dynastic importance.
But will she allow herself to be a political pawn or will Frances find a way to control her own destiny?
Press & reviews
“Totally gripping… grab it now. There’s a new Cromwell on the shelves!”
– Minoo Dinshaw
“This is a fine and compelling debut novel, giving a fresh slant on a period of British history still unfamiliar to many. Miranda Malins creates a…”
“A beautifully written and captivating true story of personal love and loss enacted against the backdrop of an England dominated by Frances’ father, Oliver Cromwell. Deeply…”
– James Evans , Author of Emigrants
“The extraordinary, revealing and moving relationship between Oliver Cromwell and his daughter Frances is brought to vivid life in this masterly historical novel.”
– Paul Lay , Editor of History Today
“With The Puritan Princess, Malins encourages us to reevaluate Oliver Cromwell and his Protectoral regime by showing it from the viewpoint of his lively youngest daughter.…”
– Andrew Taylor , Bestselling author of The King’s Evil