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This extraordinary true story transports us to Tudor and Stuart England as Alice Spencer, the daughter of an upstart sheep farmer, becomes one of the most powerful women in the country and establishes a powerful dynasty that endures to this day. Perfect for fans of The Duchess Countess and Georgiana.

Alice Spencer was born in 1560 to a family on the rise. With her sizable dowry, Alice married the heir to one of the most powerful aristocratic families in the country, eventually becoming the Countess of Derby. Now, the full story of the remarkable Alice Spencer Stanley Egerton is revealed in this comprehensive and colorful biography. A woman both ahead of and part of her time, Alice’s ruthless challenging of the status quo has inspired future generations of Spencers and will change the way you view Tudor women.

“A must-read for anyone interested in early modern England and the ancestry of Princess Diana.”

John Guy and Julia Fox, co-authors of the forthcoming Hunting the Falcon: King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn

“Engrossing and well-researched. . . This biography fascinates.”

Publishers Weekly

“Diligent archival research reveals a unique, independent Elizabethan woman.”

Kirkus

"Based on impressive research, A Woman of Influence introduces readers to Princess Diana’s forbear, the remarkable Alice Spencer…Highly recommended to any history lover who appreciates fine scholarship delivered with engaging style."

Deborah Harkness, Historian and author of the All Souls Trilogy

“A Woman of Influence is both impeccably detailed and acutely analyzed through the lens of contemporary gender politics.”

Koa Beck, author of White Feminism

“Highly readable — Ms. Wilkie guides the reader skillfully through the legal labyrinth — A fascinating story, well-told — pleasingly informative.”

Allan Massie, The Wall Street Journal

“An engrossing, fast-paced, extremely well-researched biography. . . . Views on the role of Tudor women are challenged in this devourable text, perfect for readers of biography, history, women’s history, and anyone interested in the ancestors of Princess Diana.”

Booklist

Selected as an alternate title for the May 2023 History Book Club

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