Bess of Hardwick and Her Circle

"Bess of Hardwick and Her Circle" by Maud Stepney Rawson is a historical exploration of an extraordinary woman navigating the complexities of Elizabethan England. We begin in 1520 with Elizabeth Hardwick’s birth in Derbyshire, where she swiftly ascends from lady-in-waiting to a powerful figure through strategic marriages, including one to the wealthy Sir William Cavendish after becoming a widow. The story highlights her ambition, her ability to manage family affairs with fortitude, and her passion for building projects that cement her place as a remarkable force in English history. It illustrates Bess's early life experiences, the significance of her family ties, and her early introduction into London society.