The Twilight Years

Elizabeth I by Margaret George

Summary: One of today's premier historical novelists, Margaret George dazzles here as she tackles her most difficult subject yet: the legendary Elizabeth Tudor, queen of enigma-the Virgin Queen who had many suitors, the victor of the Armada who hated war; the gorgeously attired, jewel- bedecked woman who pinched pennies. England's greatest monarch has baffled and intrigued the world for centuries. But what was she really like?

In this novel, her flame-haired, lookalike cousin, Lettice Knollys, thinks she knows all too well. Elizabeth's rival for the love of Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, and mother to the Earl of Essex, the mercurial nobleman who challenged Elizabeth's throne, Lettice had been intertwined with Elizabeth since childhood. This is a story of two women of fierce intellect and desire, one trying to protect her country, and throne, the other trying to regain power and position for her family and each vying to convince the reader of her own private vision of the truth about Elizabeth's character. Their gripping drama is acted out at the height of the flowering of the Elizabethan age. Shakespeare, Marlowe, Dudley, Raleigh, Drake-all of them swirl through these pages as they swirled through the court and on the high seas.

This is a magnificent, stay-up-all-night page-turner that is George's finest and most compelling novel and one that is sure to please readers of Alison Weir, Philippa Gregory, and Hilary Mantel.

Review: A historical fiction novel about Queen Elizabeth that takes place later on in her life.

I have to believe that almost all of the historical fiction books I have read about Queen Elizabeth focus on her early life, both before she was queen and when she was a new queen. A few may have covered time as Elizabeth aged, but I honestly can't remember off hand. This book starts in 1588 with the Armada threatening England. It was a nice change of pace. I had honestly forgotten how much went on later in Elizabeth's realm. I enjoyed the focus on politics. It showed Elizabeth as a ruler, not just a woman who wanted flattery.

Having parts of the story told by Lettice was an interesting choice, but also an apt one. Lettice was the one that took Robert Dudley away from Queen Elizabeth and who was also the mother of Robert, the Earl of Essex who led an unsuccessful rebellion against the queen. I had expected to dislike Lettice, but instead I felt for her. George does a good job of showing the complex personality and psychology that Lettice had, at least in the story. I can't imagine what she went through during her life.

Rating:






Recommendation: I would recommend this book to those that enjoy historical fiction about the Tudors and/or Queen Elizabeth.

A Time Before the Queen

The Lady Elizabeth by Alison Weir

Summary: Following the tremendous success of her first novel, Innocent Traitor, which recounted the riveting tale of the doomed Lady Jane Grey, acclaimed historian and New York Times bestselling author Alison Weir turns her masterly storytelling skills to the early life of young Elizabeth Tudor, who would grow up to become England’s most intriguing and powerful queen.

Even at age two, Elizabeth is keenly aware that people in the court of her father, King Henry VIII, have stopped referring to her as “Lady Princess” and now call her “the Lady Elizabeth.” Before she is three, she learns of the tragic fate that has befallen her mother, the enigmatic and seductive Anne Boleyn, and that she herself has been declared illegitimate, an injustice that will haunt her.

What comes next is a succession of stepmothers, bringing with them glimpses of love, fleeting security, tempestuous conflict, and tragedy. The death of her father puts the teenage Elizabeth in greater peril, leaving her at the mercy of ambitious and unscrupulous men. Like her mother two decades earlier she is imprisoned in the Tower of London–and fears she will also meet her mother’s grisly end. Power-driven politics, private scandal and public gossip, a disputed succession, and the grievous example of her sister, “Bloody” Queen Mary, all cement Elizabeth’s resolve in matters of statecraft and love, and set the stage for her transformation into the iconic Virgin Queen.

Alison Weir uses her deft talents as historian and novelist to exquisitely and suspensefully play out the conflicts between family, politics, religion, and conscience that came to define an age. Sweeping in scope, The Lady Elizabeth is a fascinating portrayal of a woman far ahead of her time–an orphaned girl haunted by the shadow of the axe, an independent spirit who must use her cunning and wits for her very survival, and a future queen whose dangerous and dramatic path to the throne shapes her future greatness.

Review: A tale of Queen Elizabeth before she was queen with unbelievable characters and using a rumor I don’t like.

I’ve read six books by Alison Weir. Half of those books I’ve given three stars and the other half I’ve given two stars. Weir seems hit or miss for me. This book was a miss. Two of the three books I didn’t enjoy so much were her fiction books. I seem to enjoy her nonfiction more. I’ll continue to read her work since I like what she writes about, especially the Tudors although I might be more hesitant about reading her fiction.

I do admire Queen Elizabeth I for standing by her principles and being able to rule a kingdom when people were doubting her and clamoring for her to marry. However, I am not the biggest fan of her personality. Elizabeth was portrayed ok in this book although I felt she was too smart even though she was precocious. Everyone else was terribly out of character, at least from what I know about them. It almost felt like Weir was trying to portray Elizabeth as a sainted person who was very sinned against. It wasn’t an evenhanded portrayal. I also didn’t like that the author went against her belief and included a big rumor in the book.

Rating: 

Recommendation: I would recommend this book to those that enjoy historical fiction about Queen Elizabeth.

The Story of Elizabeth and Dudley

Death and the Virgin Queen: Elizabeth I and the Dark Scandal That Rocked the Throne by Chris Skidmore

Summary: On the morning of September 8, 1560, at the isolated manor of Cunmor place, the body of a young woman was found at the bottom of a staircase, her neck broken. But this was no ordinary death. Amy Robsart was the wife of Elizabeth I’s great favorite, Robert Dudley, the man who many believed she would marry, were he free. Immediately people suspected foul play and Elizabeth’s own reputation was in danger of serious damage. Many felt she might even lose her throne. An inquest was begun, witnesses called, and ultimately a verdict of death by accident was reached. But the mystery refused to die and cast a long shadow over Elizabeth’s reign.

Using recently discovered forensic evidence from the original investigation, Skidmore is able to put an end to centuries of speculation as to the true causes of Robsart’s death. This is the story of a treacherous period in Elizabeth’s life: a tale of love, death, and tragedy, exploring the dramatic early life of England’s Virgin Queen.

Review: A book about the relationship between Queen Elizabeth and Robert Dudley that is much too long.

The title of this book is quite deceptive. I was expecting it to be about the scandal surrounding Robert Dudley after his wife's death. It's actually about the relationship between Queen Elizabeth and Robert Dudley although the death of Amy Robsart does play a large role in their relationship. The book did seem a bit long to be only about Amy's death. Even so, I didn't like how the book was mislabeled. The summary promises that Skidmore is able to put an end to the speculation of Amy's death, which it doesn't.

A reader mentioned some errors in the book. I didn't notice any glaring errors, but the fact that there were errors in the book hindered my enjoyment. Fact checking is something that needs to be to done in a non-fiction book. I also got tired of the numerous listings of what Robert Dudley or others bought and the exact prices. I know that sometimes can be useful, but too much is too much. It was slow going reading this book, but at least there wasn't too much speculation which I've noticed in non-fiction books where there isn't much evidence.

Rating:

Recommendation: I would recommend this book to those that are interested in the relationship between Queen Elizabeth and Robert Dudley.

The Young Prince

Young Henry: The Rise Of Henry VIII by Robert Hutchinson

Summary: Set during the same years of Henry VIII's life as "The Tudors, " this book charts his rise as a magnificent and ruthless monarch.

Few men have changed history as decisively as King Henry VIII. Who, though, was the prince that would be king? While Henry's elder brother Arthur, heir-apparent, was scrupulously groomed for the crown, the "spare heir" Henry enjoyed a rather indulgent childhood. Made Constable of Dover Castle at age two, and Duke of York at three, he was prepared for a comfortable life in a clerical career.

Everything changed for the ten-year-old prince when Arthur died. As King, Henry loved magnificence and merriment, and quickly swept away the musty cobwebs of his father's court. But at thirty-five and lacking an heir, the time for youthful frolic had ended. The executions would begin.

"Young Henry" provides readers with a captivating vision of the splendors and tragedies of the royal court, presided over by a resplendent yet truculent monarch.

Review: A decent biography of Henry VIII as a young man and into his early kingship.

If you are a fan of Henry VIII and the Tudors and have read non-fiction about the family and the time period or even accurate historical fiction then a reader will find little new information about Henry VIII. I do like the time period it focuses on. I especially like how it has information about Henry VII and the type of person and ruler he was. People focus so much on Henry VIII, but oftentimes seem to forget or ignore the man that fathered him and influenced him.


Henry VII seems like a fascinating figure and has some extreme contradictions like his son. I certainly plan on reading more about Henry VII along with Richard III. This books follows his life pretty chronologically although the chapters themselves are slightly focused on different aspects of his life. Despite the title, this biography is rather light on detail and also somewhat short (only 254 pages if you don’t count the index, notes, etc). I had hoped for more in depth information along with more information. I did enjoy this book, but would have really hoped for a more in-depth analysis. 

Rating:

Recommendation: I would recommend this book to those who enjoy reading about the Tudors, especially Henry VIII. 

He Doesn't Love You!

The Queen's Pleasure by Brandy Purdy

Summary: When young Robert Dudley, an earl's son, meets squire's daughter Amy Robsart, it is love at first sight. They marry despite parental misgivings, but their passion quickly fades, and the ambitious Dudley returns to court. Swept up in the turmoil of Tudor politics, Dudley is imprisoned in the Tower. Also a prisoner is Dudley's childhood playmate, the princess Elizabeth. In the shadow of the axe, their passion ignites. When Elizabeth becomes queen, rumours rage that Dudley means to free himself of Amy in order to wed her. And when Amy is found dead in unlikely circumstances, suspicion falls on Dudley - and the Queen...Still hotly debated amongst scholars - was Amy's death an accident, suicide, or murder? - the fascinating subject matter makes for an enthralling read for fans of historical fiction.

Review: A much too long historical fiction novel about Robert Dudley and Amy Robsart.

There was actually very little sex which was surprising considering what I’ve heard about The Boleyn Wife, from my experience with The Tudor Throne, and the book’s title. The book also focuses heavily on Amy Robsart, which would have been fine if the damn book hadn’t been so long and if Amy was actually a character worth anything. I understand that she fell hard in lust (most certainly not love) with Robert Dudley and that the lust quickly faded. I thought she would have figured out rather quickly that Robert did not love her anymore. Instead she spends the whole book still “in love” with him and always trying to get him to come back to her.

Her pining takes up a surprising amount of the book and it downright boring to read. Robert Dudley was also an ass. I always like the idea of love between Elizabeth and Robert, but in this book, it’s only love due to his great ambition. Elizabeth has the right of it when she questions whether Robert would still love her if she wasn’t queen. I am not sure how ambitious he was in real life, but he was ambitious almost beyond believing along with constantly verbally and physically abusing his wife. Elizabeth was the only character actually worth a damn.

Rating:






Recommendation: I would recommend this book to those interested in the scandal of Amy Robsart's death.

Which One are You Again?

Her Highness, the Traitor by Susan Higginbotham

Summary: As Henry VIII draws his last breath, two very different women, Jane Dudley, Viscountess Lisle, and Frances Grey, Marchioness of Dorset, face the prospect of a boy king, Edward VI.

For Jane Dudley, basking in the affection of her large family, the coming of a new king means another step upward for her ambitious, able husband, John. For Frances Grey, increasingly alienated from her husband and her brilliant but arrogant daughter Lady Jane, it means that she—and the Lady Jane—are one step closer to the throne of England.

Then the young king falls deathly ill. Determined to keep England under Protestant rule, he concocts an audacious scheme that subverts his own father’s will. Suddenly, Jane Dudley and Frances Grey are reluctantly bound together in a common cause—one that will test their loyalties, their strength, and their faith, and that will change their lives beyond measure.

Review: A tale of Lady Jane Grey from the viewpoint of two women that are much too alike.

It was nice to read a story of Lady Jane Grey that didn't have Jane Grey portrayed as a saint who suffered at the hands of her mother. Although it's hard to get a good idea of her personality in this book since Jane Grey's story is told from two people: Frances Grey and Jane Dudley, I did get the feeling that Jane thought highly of herself, was proud, and would stick to her morals and beliefs even at the risk of harm. The conflict between Jane Grey and her mother mainly came from Jane's pride and adolescence.

Despite all that, this book was hindered by being told from two points, two different women who seemed the same. When there wasn't a good way to tell them apart, I found myself flipping to the next chapter to see whose chapter I was reading (the chapters switch off). I felt like the author was trying to take the blame off the women and place it squarely on the men's shoulders. It felt very fake and I can't believe the women not being the least excited about a daughter being queen or a son being married to a queen.

Rating:

Recommendation: I would recommend this book to those that are interested in a different story of Lady Jane Grey.

A Flat Paper Doll

Wolf Hall (Thomas Cromwell Trilogy #1) by Hilary Mantel

Summary: Tudor England. Henry VIII is on the throne, but has no heir. Cardinal Wolsey is charged with securing his divorce. Into this atmosphere of distrust comes Thomas Cromwell - a man as ruthlessly ambitious in his wider politics as he is for himself. His reforming agenda is carried out in the grip of a self-interested parliament and a king who fluctuates between romantic passions and murderous rages.

Review: A tale of the Tudors from the eyes of Thomas Cromwell.

I knew very little about Thomas Cromwell. I had certainly heard the name and am certain that I had read about him before in Tudor related non-fiction, but for some reason, it didn’t seem to stick. I did a little Wikipedia reading after I finished Wolf Hall and plan to read more about him. Thomas Cromwell is indirectly and directly related to many actions that were taken and events that occurred concerning the Tudors. This book focuses on Thomas Cromwell so we see events unfold from his point of view. There is nothing to mark the thoughts of other characters from direct quotes or the third person narration.

All the characters that weren’t Thomas Cromwell seemed barely like characters at all, even Henry VIII. Events that should have been emotional impact don’t have any at all. It all falls flat even the death of Cardinal Wosley and his wife. Also, Thomas Cromwell felt flat as well. I am honestly not sure how Hilary Mantel wanted to portray him. I assume the man had more personality than he does in the book. He acts little better than a paper doll.

Rating:






Recommendation: I would recommend this to those who like Tudor fiction about less popular historical figures.

Behind the Facade

Queen's Gambit by Elizabeth Fremantle

Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher in exchange for a review.

Summary: Widowed for the second time at age thirty-one Katherine Parr falls deeply for the dashing courtier Thomas Seymour and hopes at last to marry for love. However, obliged to return to court, she attracts the attentions of the ailing, egotistical, and dangerously powerful Henry VIII, who dispatches his love rival, Seymour, to the Continent. No one is in a position to refuse a royal proposal so, haunted by the fates of his previous wives—two executions, two annulments, one death in childbirth—Katherine must wed Henry and become his sixth queen.

Katherine has to employ all her instincts to navigate the treachery of the court, drawing a tight circle of women around her, including her stepdaughter, Meg, traumatized by events from their past that are shrouded in secrecy, and their loyal servant Dot, who knows and sees more than she understands. With the Catholic faction on the rise once more, reformers being burned for heresy, and those close to the king vying for position, Katherine’s survival seems unlikely. Yet as she treads the razor’s edge of court intrigue, she never quite gives up on love.

Review: An incredible portrayal of Katherine Parr.

I traditionally think of Katherine Parr as a kind, smart, and religious woman who proves to be a comfort to me in their old age. She’s not docile per say, but lacks a fiery spirit. Queen’s Gambit brings up the idea that Katherine Parr as we know her was just an act. She was a kind, smart, and religious woman, but had a strong, sometimes impetuous, personality and was a master dissembler. I have wondered as have other people (at least they do in reviews) why Katherine fell for Thomas Seymour when she was such a reasonable woman. Their relationship makes sense in this book since Katherine is much more similar to Thomas in this book than in other books.

The character of King Henry VIII is a complex one. Sometimes I felt pity for him and there were other times that I came close to hating him (one incident stands out in my mind). No woman should have had to marry him, but it at least made more sense for Katherine to marry him than Catherine Howard who was too young. A few important events were written differently than what is traditionally accepted or believed. This book again emphasizes how Katherine Parr got the short end of the stick.

Rating:

Recommendation: I would recommend this book to those that enjoy historical fiction about the Tudors.

A Heart Blinded by Love

Secrets of the Tudor Court by D.L. Bogdan

Summary: When young Mary Howard receives the news that she will be leaving her home for the grand court of King Henry VIII, to attend his mistress Anne Boleyn, she is ecstatic. Everything Anne touches seems to turn to gold, and Mary is certain Anne will one day become Queen. But Mary has also seen the King's fickle nature and how easily he discards those who were once close to him. . .

Discovering that she is a pawn in a carefully orchestrated plot devised by her father, the duke of Norfolk, Mary dare not disobey him. Yet despite all of her efforts to please him, she too falls prey to his cold wrath. Not until she becomes betrothed to Harry Fitzroy, the Duke of Richmond and son to King Henry VIII, does Mary finds the love and approval she's been seeking. But just when Mary believes she is finally free of her father, the tides turn. Now Mary must learn to play her part well in a dangerous chess game that could change her life--and the course of history.

Review: An incredibly emotion story of Mary Howard that demonstrates the impact that Henry VIII had on people's lives.

Henry VIII's reign affected so many lives. So many people were murdered and many families lost a family member, be it a mother, father, son, daughter, cousin, etc. I've read a number of historical fiction novels about the Tudors and there has been a number of deaths in those books. Some of those books have been told from the viewpoint of queens that have been executed. None of those books have affected me as much as this book has. Mary Howard witnesses many deaths including those of her brother and cousins.

Along with all the great loss, comes the death of her true love. You can feel Mary's pain throughout the book and her burning desire to be happy, which includes being out of the grasp of her father. As much as I like Mary Howard, I do not understand her love of her father. He is downright abusive to her, puts her to work as a spy, and puts her in danger, yet she still wants to seek his approval and love. He is not a man worthy of admiration, much less love.

Rating:






Recommendation: I would recommend this book to those that enjoy historical fiction about the Tudors.

A Dangerous She Wolf

Rival to the Queen by Carolly Erickson

Summary: Powerful, dramatic and full of the rich history that has made Carolly Erickson’s novels perennial bestsellers, this is the story of the only woman to ever stand up to the Virgin Queen— her own cousin, Lettie Knollys. Far more attractive than the queen, Lettie soon won the attention of the handsome and ambitious Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, a man so enamored of the queen and determined to share her throne that it was rumored he had murdered his own wife in order to become her royal consort. The enigmatic Elizabeth allowed Dudley into her heart, and relied on his devoted service, but shied away from the personal and political risks of marriage.

When Elizabeth discovered that he had married her cousin Lettie in secret, Lettie would pay a terrible price, fighting to keep her husband’s love and ultimately losing her beloved son, the Earl of Essex, to the queen’s headsman.

This is the unforgettable story of two women related by blood, yet destined to clash over one of Tudor England’s most charismatic men.

Review: A tale of rivalry, lust, and love starring Lettice Knollys, Robert Dudley, and Queen Elizabeth.

Lettice Knollys is a great historical figure to write a book about. She and Robert Dudley risk the great wrath of Queen Elizabeth by marrying. Lettice Knollys was relatively lucky that she was only banished from court and still managed to see her husband. I am reminded of the poor Grey sisters who married with Elizabeth’s permission and became separated from their husbands permanently. With how much Queen Elizabeth cared for Dudley and how jealous she became when any woman paid attention to him, it is amazing that Lettice was only banned from court.

Rival to the Queen is a quick read that covers a number of years. Years could pass in a single chapter. A reader has to be paying attention to notice the time passing. I found Lettice to be a sympathetic and likeable character at first. She shows great sympathy and understanding towards those of a different religious faith. As the novel goes on, Lettice is shown to be a person that only cares about looks and fulfilling her lustful desires. Very soon after Robert Dudley dies, she marries a younger handsome man, because of his looks and money.

Rating:






Recommendation: I would recommend this book to those that enjoy reading about the Tudors.

The Great and Infamous Speculation

Mary Boleyn: The Mistress of Kings by Alison Weir

Summary: Sister to Queen Anne Boleyn, she was seduced by two kings and was an intimate player in one of history’s most gripping dramas. Yet much of what we know about Mary Boleyn has been fostered through garbled gossip, romantic fiction, and the misconceptions repeated by historians. Now, in her latest book, New York Times bestselling author and noted British historian Alison Weir gives us the first ever full-scale, in-depth biography of Henry VIII’s famous mistress, in which Weir explodes much of the mythology that surrounds Mary Boleyn and uncovers the truth about one of the most misunderstood figures of the Tudor age.
With the same brand of extensive forensic research she brought to her acclaimed book The Lady in the Tower, Weir facilitates here a new portrayal of her subjects, revealing how Mary was treated by her ambitious family and the likely nature of the relationship between the Boleyn sisters. She also posits new evidence regarding the reputation of Mary’s mother, Elizabeth Howard, who was rumored to have been an early mistress of Henry VIII.

Weir unravels the truth about Mary’s much-vaunted notoriety at the French court and her relations with King François I. She offers plausible theories as to what happened to Mary during the undocumented years of her life, and shows that, far from marrying an insignificant and complacent nonentity, she made a brilliant match with a young man who was the King’s cousin and a rising star at court.

Weir also explores Mary’s own position and role at the English court, and how she became Henry VIII’s mistress. She tracks the probable course of their affair and investigates Mary’s real reputation. With new and compelling evidence, Weir presents the most conclusive answer to date on the paternity of Mary’s children, long speculated to have been Henry VIII’s progeny.

Alison Weir has drawn fascinating information from the original sources of the period to piece together a life steeped in mystery and misfortune, debunking centuries-old myths and disproving accepted assertions, to give us the truth about Mary Boleyn, the so-called great and infamous whore

Review: A biography that was mostly speculation with a few very sparse facts.

The idea of a book about Mary Boleyn sounds like a great idea. Mary Boleyn is a very interesting historical figure and a book about her is one that Tudor fanatics would probably read. I was certainly interested in reading it. It turns out that very little is actually known about Mary Boleyn and writing a full length book about her is probably a stretch. I think it would have been better for Weir to add a chapter about her in a book that is dealing with Anne Boleyn or her family.

So very little is known about Mary Boleyn. A lot of sources are conflicting. Some sources purposely report malicious gossip or are merely repeating from what they have heard or learned from other people. Weir does a good job of figuring out what is true, what is false, or usually, what is most likely true or false. It is hard for Weir to be certain of anything with so little information. I assume most of her guesses are correct, but I don’t like how certain Weir is after she decides that something must be true or false.

Rating:

Recommendation: I would only recommend this to those that are looking for any information about Mary Boleyn. 

In the Court of the Queen

Roses Have Thorns: A Novel of Elizabeth I (Ladies in Waiting #3) by Sandra Byrd

Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher in exchange for a review. 

Summary: In 1565, seventeen-year-old Elin von Snakenborg leaves Sweden on a treacherous journey to England. Her fiance has fallen in love with her sister and her dowry money has been gambled away, but ahead of her lies an adventure that will take her to the dizzying heights of Tudor power. Transformed through marriage into Helena, the Marchioness of Northampton, she becomes the highest-ranking woman in Elizabeth’s circle. But in a court that is surrounded by Catholic enemies who plot the queen’s downfall, Helena is forced to choose between an unyielding monarch and the husband she’s not sure she can trust—a choice that will provoke catastrophic consequences.

Vividly conjuring the years leading up to the beheading of Mary Queen of Scots, Roses Have Thorns is a brilliant exploration of treason, both to the realm and to the heart.

Review: An enjoyable tale of a foreign woman caught up in the pull of Queen Elizabeth.

I liked Elin von Snakenborg as a character. I can’t imagine coming to visit a foreign country with your princess and then deciding to stay. I know that she had her reasons, namely a marriage proposal and her fiancé loving her sister, but there was a good chance that she would never she her family again. Today, with air travel, it is much easier to visit other countries and you can see your family much more easier. It was interesting to see Elizabeth through the lens of a foreign born person, not an Englishman.

This book really demonstrates how much of a pull Elizabeth had on people. She would get annoyed when her ladies got married and would be furious if they did it without her permission. Friendship with the queen seemed a very one sided affair. Sure, the person would get properties, titles, monies, and gifts, but they would lose a lot of their freedom. I liked that Elin actually saw Elizabeth as a human being and not as an untouchable monarch. I was glad that she was able to get her happy ending.

Rating:

Recommendation: I would recommend this book to those that enjoy historical fiction about queens or fiction about the Tudors. 

A Very Un-Anne Boleyn Anne Bolyen

In the Shadow of Lions: A Novel of Anne Boleyn (Chronicles of the Scribe #1) by Ginger Garrett

Summary: "I am the first writer, The Scribe. My books lie open before the Throne, and someday will be the only witness of your people and their time in this world. The stories are forgotten here, and the Day draws close. I will tell you one of my stories. You will record it."

So begins the narration of one such angel in this sweeping historical tale set during the reign of England's Henry VIII. It is the story of two women, their guardian angels, and a mysterious, subversive book . a book that outrages some, inspires others, and launches the Protestant Reformation.

The devout Anne Boleyn catches the eye of a powerful king and uses her influence to champion an English translation of the Bible—Scriptures the common people could read for themselves. Meanwhile, Rose, a broken, suicidal woman of the streets, is moved to seek God when she witnesses Thomas More's public displays of Christian charity, ignorant of his secret life spent eradicating the same book, persecuting anyone who dares read it.

Historic figures come alive in this thrilling story of heroes and villains, saints and sinners, angels and mortals ... and the sacred book that will inspire you anew.

Review: An extremely unrealistic and unbelievable portrayal of Anne Boleyn.

I snagged this as a free Kindle read and since I had previously added this book to my tbr shelf on Goodreads, I was excited to read this. I know the book is shelved as Christian fiction on Goodreads, which didn’t bother me since I was expecting a truly religious Anne Boleyn as I’ve read in at least one book before. What I got was an Anne Boleyn that didn’t want to marry Henry VIII (which I could believe to certain extent) and a family who were saying how she was trashing their good name.

Everything I’ve learned about the Boleyn’s has shown them to be a family that eagerly grabs for power in any way that they can. Anne could have easily been another lover of Henry’s like her sister was, but they pushed for marriage for years and years. They would have not been saying that Anne was trashing their good name. Also, the time period in this book is squashed down to a year, maybe more, which distorts the actual story of Anne holding off the king for years and the marriage that lasted a few years. You miss out on a lot. The aspect of the Scribe and Rose’s tale added very little to the story and could have been removed.  

Rating:

Recommendation: I would recommend this book to those interested in reading a very different portrayal of Anne Boleyn.

Much More Than a One Sided Cutout

The Unfaithful Queen: A Novel of Henry VIII's Fifth Wife by Carolly Erickson

Summary: A much more realistic portrayal of Catherine Howard.

I liked this much better than The Confession of Katherine Howard, which told from another’s viewpoint, Katherine’s supposed friend. The view we got of Katherine was that she was colorless, dull, empty headed, and only cared about her own pleasure. I felt little sympathy for her. It was misleading to call the book The Confession of Katherine Howard since we only got one side of Katherine’s story. Fortunately, The Unfaithful Queen is told from Catherine’s point of view. It was a much more balanced portrayal of the unfortunate girl that caught Henry VIII’s eye.

The choice of Catherine Howard as his fifth wife shows how blinded Henry VIII was to her actual person and was in love with an ideal. I know he was trying to reclaim his youth and thought that Catherine would be able to help him achieve that, but she was so young, still a child. I will admit that she shouldn’t have had a lover while married to the king, but it is hard to blame her since Henry was double her age and physically repulsive. Catherine was still a teenager and was just following her heart, just like Henry was doing when he married her. 

Review: A much more realistic portrayal of Catherine Howard.

I liked this much better than The Confession of Katherine Howard, which told from another’s viewpoint, Katherine’s supposed friend. The view we got of Katherine was that she was colorless, dull, empty headed, and only cared about her own pleasure. I felt little sympathy for her. It was misleading to call the book The Confession of Katherine Howard since we only got one side of Katherine’s story. Fortunately, The Unfaithful Queen is told from Catherine’s point of view. It was a much more balanced portrayal of the unfortunate girl that caught Henry VIII’s eye.

The choice of Catherine Howard as his fifth wife shows how blinded Henry VIII was to her actual person and was in love with an ideal. I know he was trying to reclaim his youth and thought that Catherine would be able to help him achieve that, but she was so young, still a child. I will admit that she shouldn’t have had a lover while married to the king, but it is hard to blame her since Henry was double her age and physically repulsive. Catherine was still a teenager and was just following her heart, just like Henry was doing when he married her.

Rating: 

Recommendation: I would recommend this book to those who enjoy historical fiction or non fiction about the Tudors.

To Be the Frenemy of a Queen

The Confession of Katherine Howard by Suzannah Dunn

Summary: When twelve-year-old Katherine Howard comes to live in the Duchess of Norfolk’s household, poor relation Cat Tilney is deeply suspicious of her. The two girls couldn’t be more different: Cat, watchful and ambitious; Katherine, interested only in clothes and boys. Their companions are in thrall to Katherine, but it’s Cat in whom Katherine confides. Summoned to court at seventeen, Katherine leaves Cat in the company of her ex-lover, Francis, with whom Cat begins a serious love affair.

Within months, the king has set aside his latest wife for Katherine. The future seems assured for the new queen and her maid-in-waiting, although Cat would feel more confident if Katherine hadn’t embarked on an affair with one of the king’s favoured attendants, Thomas Culpeper.

For a blissful year and a half, it seems that Katherine can have everything she wants. But then allegations are made about her girlhood love affairs. Desperately frightened, Katherine recounts a version of events which implicates Francis but which Cat knows to be a lie. With Francis imprisoned in the Tower, Cat alone knows the whole truth of Katherine Howard’s past.

Review: A tale of an easy to despise Katherine Howard told from the point of view of a catty friend.

I’m not a big fan of the term frenemy, but it perfectly describes Cat’s feelings toward Katherine. Cat is very quick to say how colorless Katherine is, how she is just a tiny girl, and how uneducated she is. Katherine is quick to impress everyone even though she doesn’t have a thought in her brain. The reader only gets an outside perspective of Katherine and I was not a big fan of her. She seemed quite frivolous and only concerned about her own pleasure.

It may not be historically accurate, but I would prefer a more balanced portrayal of Katherine. A Katherine that is both excited and scared to be queen, a Katherine that just wants love from someone her own age, a Katherine that is perhaps a bit naïve. I don’t know why Cat stayed friends with Katherine if she disliked her so much. Cat is not a good friend. She is only thinking of her boyfriend when she spills the beans about the queen and Thomas Culpepper. Cat tries to make herself feel better after the fact, but it doesn’t convince anyone. I also didn’t like the use of so much modern language. I know it would be hard to tell a story during this time period in the English they used, but I appreciate not having to see too many modern words in the story. 

Rating:

Recommendation: I would recommend this book to those interested in the Tudors, especially the queens of Henry VIII. 

She Sees the Future

The Secret Keeper: A Novel of Kateryn Parr (Ladies in Waiting #2) by Sandra Byrd

Summary: Mistress Juliana St. John is the lovely, forthright daughter of a prosperous knight’s family. Though all expect her to marry the son of her late father’s business partner, time and chance interrupt, sending her to the sumptuous but deceptive court of Henry VIII.

 Sir Thomas Seymour, brother of the late Queen Jane, returns to Wiltshire to conclude his affairs with Juliana’s father’s estate and chances upon her reading as lector in the local church. He sees instantly that she would fit into the household of the woman he loves and wants most to please, Kateryn Parr. Juliana’s mother agrees to have her placed with Parr for a season and Juliana goes, though reluctantly.

For she keeps a secret.

 As Juliana accompanies Kateryn Parr to court, Henry’s devout sixth queen raises the stakes for all reformers. Support of firebrand Anne Askew puts the queen and her ladies in life-threatening jeopardy, as does the queen’s desire to influence her husband’s—and the realm’s—direction and beliefs. Later, without Henry’s strong arm, the court devolves to competition, duplicity, and betrayal. The risks could not be higher as Juliana must choose between love and honor, personal fulfillment and sacrifice. Ultimately, her course is driven by a final kept secret, one that undoes everything she thought she knew.

Review: An enjoyable Tudor historical fiction novel featuring Katherine Parr.

I enjoyed this book although I must admit that not much has stuck with me after a few days. Unlike the last Tudor historical fiction novel I read, The Secret Keeper actually involved the Tudors. I like Katherine Parr well enough even though she isn't as interesting as some of Henry VIII's other queens like Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boyeln, and Catherine Howard. Katherine Parr's left story is pretty tragic though. She was forced to marry for duty three times and had to worry about her life when married to Henry VIII. She only got to marry for love once and died soon after having her first child. 

I know Juliana is the main character, but she isn't much of a main character. She is more of a vehicle by which to tell the story of Katherine Parr and Thomas Seymour. Her gift of prophecy felt mainly like a plot device. I did like Juliana well enough though and was sad about what happened to her at court. I was glad that she got her happy ending. I did like the portrayal of Elizabeth and how she reacted around Thomas Seymour. I was glad to see that she was confused and upset about Thomas' behavior towards her. 

Rating:

Recommendation: I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys historical fiction about the Tudors.

A Soap Opera in Book Form

The Sumerton Women by D.L. Bogdan

Summary: Orphaned at age eight, Lady Cecily Burkhart becomes the ward of Harold Pierce, Earl of Sumerton. Lord Hal and his wife, Lady Grace, welcome sweet-natured Cecily as one of their own. With Brey, their young son, Cecily develops an easy friendship. But their daughter, Mirabella, is consumed by her religious vocation—and by her devotion to Father Alec Cahill, the family priest and tutor.

As Henry VIII’s obsession with Anne Boleyn leads to violent religious upheaval, Mirabella is robbed of her calling and the future Cecily dreamed of is ripped away in turn. Cecily struggles to hold together the fractured household while she and Father Alec grapple with a dangerous mutual attraction. Plagued with jealousy, Mirabella unleashes a tumultuous chain of events that threatens to destroy everyone around her, even as the kingdom is torn apart…

Review: A soap opera in book where anything that could go wrong, did.

I am a sucker for anything Tudor related and I was interested to read this book. I don’t mind books about made up characters or books that tell stories set during the same time period as the Tudor family as long as they are enjoyable to read. Unfortunately, this book fell short. While this book takes place during the reign of Henry VIII when he was breaking with the Catholic Church and annulling his marriage with Catherine of Aragon, the Sumerton family were extremely isolated from events so we only got information second hand.

I get that tragedies happen and I understand that people died easily in the 1500s, be they old or young, but too much is too much. I did not want to read a soap opera in book form. Everything that can happen does happen and the bad events seem to serve the main character, Cecily, in eventually getting what she’s always wanted. Despite everything that has happened to Cecily in her life, she manages to stay good, kind, and pure. Why was she so lucky? The trauma didn’t seem to have much effect on her.

Rating:

Recommendation: I would only recommend this book to those that enjoy historical fiction and don’t mind a good deal of tragedy. 

Bess Like You’ve Never Seen Her Before

Young Bess by Margaret Irwin

Summary: Growing up in the shadow of her dead mother, the infamous Anne Boleyn, young Princess Elizabeth has learnt to be continuously on the watch for the political games played out around her. It is never certain when one might rise, or precariously fall, out of royal favor. When her distant father, Henry VIII, dies, the future brightens for Elizabeth. She is able to set up a home with Henry's last wife, Katherine Parr who now has a new husband, Tom Seymour. Tom, however, is playing a risky game. Marrying a widowed queen is one thing, flirting with the King's daughter and second in line to the throne is another. As the adolescent Elizabeth finds herself dangerously attracted to him, danger encroaches upon herself and the kingdom...

Review: An enjoyable but somewhat forgettable historical fiction novel about Queen Elizabeth’s early years.

I read this book right after I read another book, The Redheaded Princess, about Queen Elizabeth’s early years. This book did not go as far in time as The Redheaded Princess did. I liked the Elizabeth in this book much better. She was portrayed as a very human character that had an air of mystery about her that few could seem to understand. Her relationship with Tom Seymour was well done and it felt like Tom was just a man who had fallen for a young woman, not the power hungry man desiring to wed a future queen.

I really liked getting the viewpoints of a number of characters, especially the Lord Protector. I had never thought of him as a henpecked husband before. It was amazing the amount of sympathy for him. He was trying to do the right thing by the people, but kept getting blocked at every turn. Edward was rather bratty and thought much too highly of himself. The author probably took great liberties with the characters and their personalities, but I enjoyed the differentness of it all.

Rating: 






Recommendation: I would recommend this book to those that enjoy historical fiction about Queen Elizabeth, queens, or the Tudors.

A Not So Queenly Queen Elizabeth

The Redheaded Princess by Ann Rinaldi

Summary: Growing up, Elizabeth fears she can never be Queen. Although she is the King's daughter, no woman can ever hope to rule over men in England, especially when her mother has been executed for treason.

For all her royal blood, Elizabeth's life is fraught with danger and uncertainty. Sometimes she is welcome in the royal court; other times she is cast out into the countryside. With her position constantly changing, the Princess must navigate a sea of shifting loyalties and dangerous affections. At stake is her life--for beheading is not uncommon among the factions that war for the Crown.

With the vivid human touch that has made her one of the foremost writers of historical fiction, Ann Rinaldi brings to life the heart and soul of the young Elizabeth I. It's a portrait of a great leader as she may have been as she found her way to the glorious destiny that lay before her.

Review: This book was a very quick read that covered Elizabeth’s life before she became queen. 

My main qualm with the book is how Elizabeth behaves. She was 25 when she became queen yet still acts like a teenager even when she is 25. When she is a teenager, I could understand the behavior to some degree, but I believe she would have been raised to handle her emotions and feelings better. From what I have read about Elizabeth, she is a calculating and clever woman who was probably aware most of her life that she very well might become queen one day.

Although the circumstances of her birth, what happened to her mother, and the turmoil of Mary’s reign are certainly interesting times, Elizabeth really shines as a ruler after she has become queen. While I may not be a fan of her personality or how she treats men, she is very good with playing people against each other and using the marriage card to her great advantage. Elizabeth as queen would probably not make for a very exciting young adult novel, but I would suggest anyone that is interested in her life after reading this book to seek out adult historical fiction, or better yet, non-fiction.

Rating:

Recommendation:  I would recommend this to those that enjoy young adult historical fiction or are interested in Queen Elizabeth. 

Two Teenagers Masquerading as Queens

The Tudor Throne by Brandy Purdy

Summary: In the wake of King Henry VIII's death, England's throne is left in a precarious state—as is the peculiar relationship between his two daughters. Mary, the elder, once treasured, had been declared a bastard in favor of her flame-haired half-sister, Elizabeth, born of the doomed Anne Boleyn. Yet the bond between the sisters was palpable from the start. Now reinstated, Mary eventually assumes her place as queen. But as Mary's religious zeal evolves into a reign of terror, young Elizabeth gains the people's favor. Gripped by a tormenting paranoia, Mary is soon convinced that her beloved Elizabeth is in fact her worst enemy. And the virginal Elizabeth, whose true love is her country, must defy her tyrannical sister to make way for a new era. . .

A brilliant portrait of the rule of "Bloody Mary" and her intricate relationship with Elizabeth I, the adored "Virgin Queen," here is a riveting tale of one family's sordid and extraordinary chapter in the pages of history.

Review: A historical fiction novel with two characters that acted as teenage girls, not queens and needless amounts of sex. 

This started off as a decent read, but quickly annoyed me. Switching between Elizabeth's and Mary's viewpoints is an interesting concept and should definitely lead to an interesting read, should being the key word. Purdy did a horrible job with the portrayal of the two queens. They acted like teenagers who could control their emotions or their lust. I could never believe Elizabeth or Mary acting the way they did. Purdy had Mary completed dependent on her husband and Elizabeth as a woman who could not keep it in her pants. 

The sex was another aspect I did not enjoy. I don't mind sex in books. Hell, I read erotica. The sex in this novel was useless and served no purpose. It was gratuitous. Also, Purdy got a number of basic historical facts wrong. The one that stuck out the most to me was that Katherine Parr had only been married once before marrying Henry VIII. She had actually been married twice before. It shows a lack of attention to detail. She also includes a number of myths and rumors in the book. 

Rating:

Recommendation: I would recommend this book to those that enjoy fiction about queens or don't mind historical fiction that is very loosely based on fact.