Elizabeth I by Margaret George

I cannot possibly praise this book enough. The biography is written in first person through the eyes of two people, the Virgin Queen herself, and the woman she hated most, her cousin Lettice. Unlike most books about Elizabeth, this one focuses on her later years as she faces some of her greatest challenges.

Very well written. I found it difficult to put down. So much could be said but your time would be better spent finding yourself a copy of this book.

My First Ladies by Nancy Clarke

This is an inside view of the White House from the perspective of the head florist from Carters through Obamas. And while it doesn't seem like the florist would have much to do with White House happenings, apparently fresh flowers and table displays-- from public areas to the first family's living quarters to large events--are a daily concern in this world removed from our own daily experiences.

The glimpse through Nancy's eyes makes for a very peaceful read, with many interesting facts about the daily lives of these first ladies.