The Recess

Set during the reign of Elizabeth I, this groundbreaking novel features the twin daughters of Mary, Queen of Scots, who navigate political intrigues, overseas journeys, and warfare. As one of the earliest Gothic novels, it helps pioneer historical fiction and is notable for its use of multiple perspectives to depict characters and events. Breaking away from the typical focus on courtship, it presents a daring exploration of women's roles in a tumultuous era, contributing to its popularity at the time of publication.