Easily one of the most fascinating and complex relationships in Tudor history is that between the daughters of King Henry VIII, Mary and Elizabeth. Bound by blood yet divided by religion, politics, and circumstance, the two half-sisters navigated rivalry, suspicion, and survival in a turbulent age. To discuss their relationship with me, I am pleased to welcome back historian Dr Peter Stiffell, who will examine how their relationship evolved from childhood through to Mary's reign and Elizabeth's eventual accession to the throne. Together, we'll uncover the personal dynamics, political pressures, and historical consequences that shaped the lives of England's first two reigning queens.

Today, I'm delighted to be joined by one of Britain's most acclaimed historians, indeed I would say she’s my biggest guest yet, Professor Kate Williams. A bestselling author, broadcaster, and expert on royal history, Kate has spent years bringing the lives of monarchs to vivid life for readers and audiences alike. Her latest book, Regina, A New History of Women and Power takes us on a fascinating journey through the stories of history's female rulers—women who wielded power in worlds often designed to deny it to them. In this conversation, we'll discuss the lives of these remarkable queens, the myths and misconceptions that surround them, and what their stories can tell us about leadership, power, and the place of women in history.

She was a queen, a political player, and one of the most controversial women of the Wars of the Roses. Admired by some and mistrusted by others, Elizabeth Woodville became a central figure in a royal dynasty marked by ambition, intrigue, and conflict. Her story touches on questions of power, family, survival, and the enduring mystery surrounding the Princes in the Tower. To help me untangle the myths from the historical reality, I'm joined by historian Dr Lacey Bonar-Hull, to shed new light on medieval queenship and the complex legacy of Elizabeth Woodville. Together, we'll examine the woman behind the legend and her lasting impact on English history.