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emakay's review against another edition
informative
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Death, Emotional abuse, Violence, Murder, Sexual assault, and Sexual violence
lavenderlilacs1912's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
As a frequent reader of historical fiction and historical books about the Tudor period, I really enjoyed the book. I always like Alison Weir's historical non-fiction, and her first foray into historical fiction was compelling and interesting. I really enjoyed the multiple view points, although I did find the prose to be awkward at times. I especially enjoyed how each character's voice sounded believable as someone living in the sixteenth century. The one thing I did find is that the lack of variety in the POVs at the beginning was a little grating. The POVs that stood out were those of Mrs. Ellen (the one adult in the novel who loved Jane unconditionally), and Katherine Parr. ***trigger warning*** The one glaring thing I really wish I had been prepared for is the interactions with Guildford Dudley, an unflinching, uncomfortable and horrifying depiction of marital rape not once but twice was something I definitely did not expect. Based on that alone, I would be selective about the people to whom I recommend the book, since not everyone would be comfortable with scenes like that. In conclusion, however, I really liked the book and I am definitely looking forward to reading more by Alison Weir.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Rape and Emotional abuse
Moderate: Violence
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