Thomas Penn writes:

In the tumultuous course of the English 16th century, Philip’s brief reign as king of England is uniquely fascinating, raising intractable questions to do with sovereignty and religious politics. Placing Philip in this context requires an intimate understanding of the singular nature of Marian England, as well as Spain, the Habsburgs and the convoluted world of European religious and dynastic politics. In his brisk and entertaining study, Harry Kelsey demonstrates thorough knowledge of the Spanish sources, provides ceremonial context for Philip’s time in England, and attempts to recover him as an active English sovereign.

(LRB 5 April 2012)

I.B.Tauris | Paperback 256 pp. |ISBN: 9781848857162