A magnificent and lavish historical novel by internationally bestselling author Philippa Gregory, recounting the early life of Catherine of Aragon. "I was born a princess, destined to be a queen, and I know my duty." In 1491, Arthur Tudor, the eldest son of Henry VII and the Prince of Wales, has been betrothed since childhood to the Spanish princess Catherine of Aragon. Their marriage will cement the alliance Henry Tudor seeks to secure his country. But when Arthur dies suddenly and an 11-year-old boy becomes heir to the kingdom, Henry Tudor must decide whether to send Catherine back to Spain or marry her himself. Catherine has no son from her brief marriage to secure her future; her substantial dowry and his powerful contract are at stake. Henry has failed to anticipate the determination of a young woman bent on fulfilling her own destiny as queen, and the ambition of Prince Harry, the future Henry VIII.