An Evening with Tracy Borman: The Stolen Crown

In partnership with York Literature Festival, Fox Lane Books presents An Evening with Tracy Borman.

Step into the world of the Tudors with acclaimed historian and broadcaster Tracy Borman as she unveils the gripping secrets behind her latest book, The Stolen Crown: Treachery, Deceit and the Death of the Tudor Dynasty. In this illustrated talk, Tracy reveals the astonishing truth behind one of history’s most closely guarded scandals, blending meticulous research with vivid storytelling for an unforgettable evening.

In March 1603, Queen Elizabeth I, the last Tudor monarch, lay dying at Richmond Palace. History tells us that with her final breath she named James VI of Scotland as her successor, leading to a smooth and peaceful transition from Tudor to Stuart. But as Tracy reveals, this familiar story is built on a lie.

Drawing on newly discovered manuscripts and meticulous research, The Stolen Crown uncovers the truth behind one of the most controversial successions in British history — a tale of political cover-ups, rival claimants, and whispered conspiracies that shaped the fate of the monarchy. Discover the secrets James VI wanted hidden, from his possible role in Elizabeth’s death to the turbulence, persecution, and treachery that defined the early Stuart reign.

Copies of The Stolen Crown and Tracy’s other titles will be available to purchase, with a book signing after the talk.

Doors 6:30 pm for a 7pm start. Book-signing to follow the event.

About Tracy Borman
Tracy Borman OBE is Chief Historian at Historic Royal Palaces and Chief Executive of the Heritage Education Trust. She studied and taught history at the University of Hull and has since become one of Britain’s most respected historical authors. Her acclaimed works include Crown & Sceptre, Henry VIII and the Men Who Made Him, The Private Lives of the Tudors, Thomas Cromwell: The Untold Story of Henry VIII’s Most Faithful Servant, Matilda: Wife of the Conqueror, First Queen of England, Elizabeth’s Women, and Witches: A Tale of Sorcery, Scandal and Seduction.

A regular broadcaster and public speaker, Tracy has appeared in numerous television and radio programmes and delivers sold-out talks across the UK and abroad, sharing her passion for bringing history vividly to life.

About Fox Lane Books
Based in the village of Thorpe Willoughby, North Yorkshire, Fox Lane Books is a proudly independent online bookshop serving readers across the UK and around the world. We bring our love of books directly to our customers through carefully curated selections, featuring many signed editions, as well as a delightful range of bookish gifts.

In addition to our online store, we pop up at literary festivals, fairs, and author events — creating a welcoming space for readers to discover their next great read. We also offer a popular book subscription service, gift-wrapping for that extra special touch, and a reward point scheme for our loyal customers. Visit  https://www.foxlanebooks.co.uk/

About York Literature Festival
Founded in 2007, York Literature Festival has grown into one of the North’s leading celebrations of the written and spoken word. Run by a dedicated voluntary team and registered as a charity, it offers a vibrant annual programme of talks, performances, panels, and workshops in some of York’s most iconic venues, from historic theatres to libraries and gardens.

Over the years, the festival has welcomed literary greats including Simon Armitage, Carol Ann Duffy, Val McDermid, Michael Palin, and Matt Haig. With events covering fiction, poetry, non-fiction, and current affairs—alongside special programming for younger audiences—the festival continues to inspire, entertain, and connect readers and writers from across the UK and beyond. Visit  https://yorkliteraturefestival.co.uk/