How Soon Is Now?

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Jean Plaidy

IN THE ROYAL MARRIAGE MARKET THE INFANTA OF SPAIN WAS A TRUE PRIZE. In the eyes of the world, Katharine of Aragon was a precious object to be disposed of for the glory of Spain. Her parents, Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand, send her to England to become the bride of Arthur, Prince of Wales. But soon her frail husband was dead, and a fateful question loomed: Was the marriage consummated, as Katharine's priest avowed, or was the young widow still a virgin? On that delicate point hinged Katharine's--and England's--future. Meanwhile, waiting in the wings was her willful, handsome brother-in-law, bold Prince Henry, who alone had the power to restore Katharine's lost position. Jean Plaidy's narrative genius sparkles in this story of a remarkable royal marriage that inspired some of history's bloodiest deeds . . . .(

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Cynthia Harnett

Stephen, stepson of a plowman, who dreams of going to Oxford University as a poor scholar, finds his future jeopardized by witchcraft and political intrigue in fifteenth-century England.

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Amy Chua

In this sweeping history, bestselling author Amy Chua explains how globally dominant empires -- or hyperpowers -- rise and why they fall. In a series of brilliant chapter-length studies, she examines the most powerful cultures in history -- from the ancient empires of Persia and China to the recent global empires of England and the United States -- and reveals the reasons behind their success, as well as the roots of their ultimate demise. Chua's analysis uncovers a fascinating historical pattern: while policies of tolerance and assimilation toward conquered peoples are essential for an empire to succeed, the multicultural society that results introduces new tensions and instabilities, threatening to pull the empire apart from within. What this means for the United States' uncertain future is the subject of Chua's provocative and surprising conclusion. - Publisher.

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Ellie Dean

In defending herself against her brutal husband, 18 year-old Ruby Clark is forced to flee London. She has no idea where Cliffehaven is, or what she will find there, but she knows that she will never be able to return home again. At first it seems she's fallen on her feet. But when her host makes advances, Ruby is left homeless once more. Until Peggy Reilly welcomes her into the warmth of Beach View boarding house and Ruby dares to hope for a brighter future.