Author Jo Harkin joins Talking Tudors to discuss her novel 'The Pretender', which imagines the life of Lambert Simnel — a farm boy thrust into Yorkist plots, crowned in Dublin, and swept through courts from Oxford to Burgundy and Ireland.

Jo explains her five-year research process, the vivid locations and powerful women who inspired her, and her approach to balancing historical fact with imaginative storytelling.

She also shares reading and viewing recommendations, a glimpse of her next project set in Spain, and practical insights into writing historical fiction.

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In this episode of Talking Tudors, host Natalie Grueninger speaks with historian Dr Natalie Donnell about the life and career of Margaret of Austria. Born in Burgundy and raised at several European courts, Margaret was the long-serving regent of the Netherlands.

The conversation covers Margaret’s education under powerful women, her role raising and supporting Charles V, her diplomatic success in the 1529 'Ladies' Peace', her patronage of the arts, and her legacy as a capable and influential female ruler until her death in 1530.

VISIT DR DONNELL'S WEBSITE

https://www.nataliedonnell.com/

SUBSCRIBE TO FEMINIST HISTORIES https://feministhistories.substack.com/

TAKEAWAY

'The Theatre of the World' by Abraham Ortelius

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Host Natalie Grueninger interviews Mexican author Sofia Robleda about her new novel, The Other Moctezuma Girls. They explore the life and legacy of Isabel Moctezuma, the identity of her daughters, and the complex world of 16th‑century Mexica society before and after Spanish contact.

The conversation covers conquest, cultural exchange, women’s roles, Robleda’s research and personal connection to the history.

Visit Sofia's official website

https://sofiarobleda.com/

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