The Queen's Priest: The Story of Blessed Thomas Abell

The Queen's Priest is a gripping historical novel based on the true story of Thomas Abell, the 16th-century priest who defied King Henry VIII and spent seven years of his life in the Tower of London.


Father Thomas Abell's tranquil life in Oxford is shattered when the powerful Cardinal Wolsey summons him to the royal court. Embroiled in King Henry VIII's quest for a divorce, Wolsey asks Thomas to become Queen Katherine’s personal chaplain—and the king's loyal spy. Then, when a covert mission to Spain forces Thomas to choose between the king's demands and his own conscience, he must decide who he will serve. Will he risk everything to do what is right?


The Queen's Priest reveals the treacherous landscape of Tudor England, where speaking truth could cost a man everything. Follow Thomas's journey from reluctant priest to fearless champion of the faith.

The Queen's Priest is based on the true story of Blessed Thomas Abell, who carved his name and family emblem into the Tower of London. Visitors today can see his graffiti in the Beauchamp Tower.


Theresa Abell Haynes is a journalist and historical novelist with a master's degree in the Religious Roots of Europe from Lund University in Sweden. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband.