Reviews with content warning for Infidelity - The Other Boleyn Girl

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The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory

9 reviews

place6o_ffct's review against another edition

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dark sad slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? N/A
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.0

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tourmaline1703's review against another edition

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emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

What an innovative reimagining of the Tudor court. I was totally immersed by the drama, the conflict and the romance. Having studied Henry VIII last year, it was really interesting to focus more on the inner workings of the court and to expand on my knowledge. Despite this being the ninth book in a series (which I didn't realise when I picked it up), you don't need any prior knowledge and things are explained as relationships change and crumble, whether that be within families, countries or lovers.
Philippa Gregory writes beautifully and perfectly encapsulated the personalities of every character with their dialogue and mannerisms. You could really feel the emotions of Mary, our narrator, as her life changes. Slight warning that some of the descriptions of childbirth can be quite graphic and disturbing at times, but it does add to the story and is necessary for the final chapter.
Whilst there are some quieter moments in the plot, it all builds and builds, ending on a large event. I think the way the plot quickens and slows reflects the coming and going of the Tudor court well. At times, I wasn't fully paying attention yet could still follow what was going on as the writing can be quite descriptive at times when discussing who is in the room, where they are riding etc, but this reflects the flowery language used at the time.
My relationship and thoughts on the novel's characters is quite complex but I would say the best way I can describe it is I empathise with them and understand their need to protect each other. Of course, these are fictionalised versions of historical figures so the way they are presented differs slightly from who they were but I think it is interesting to flesh out their relationships and emotions. I was uncomfortable at times with the way they acted and it is hard to understand some of the logic behind their actions as they are undoubtedly flawed. However, it is undeniably interesting to read.

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