“Ms. Rounding vividly conveys how the blood of the martyred dead became the predicate for the religious liberty we now enjoy.” —Wall Street Journal

“Rounding delves into the tumultuous Tudor era, ably recounting the hunt for heretics who failed to change their beliefs in accordance with the change of monarch. . . . Rounding complements her gift for storytelling with letters and official records to flesh out stories of specific victims . .. an excellent account of 16th-century religious persecution and martyrdom.” —Publishers Weekly

“Rounding explores the depth of the differences and the dangers of life under Henry VIII and his daughter, Queen Mary. . . . Throughout the book, the author examines the mindsets of the martyrs and the strength of their consciences, which kept them from deserting their belief. . . . An intriguing, astute look at this volatile period.” —Kirkus

“[A]n in-depth look… Rounding comprehensively examines what brought about this dark period in history, while also making connections to the current religious climate and the possibility of learning from the past to end these conflicts… Recommended for history buffs interested in religious impacts on society, as well as those wishing to learn more about the Tudor dynasty” —Library Journal

“This gruesomely entertaining book examines the Tudor zeal for burning people in the name of religion. . . . Burning is, Rounding suggests, a preferred way of dealing with those harbouring dangerous religious ideas because it both ‘purifies’ and leaves little or no trace.” —The Times of London, “Book of the Week”

“[A] deeply researched and fascinating book.”—The Spectator

“[A] serious, well-researched and well-written piece of work by a highly accomplished biographer.” —The Catholic Herald

“The prose is crisp and everything is perfectly entertaining." —The Tablet