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3.92 AVERAGE
3.92 AVERAGE
I've always been skeptical of fiction based on historical characters, but I had a hard time putting this one down. A little over-the-top at times, but it certainly draws you in.
I just want to add here that the 4 stars is for pure entertainment value, not the quality of the writing.
A great story of love, power, hope, betrayal and family.
I love this series of books about Henry the Eighth. Historial fluff indeed. If you liked the series, The Tudors, you should give these books a try.
I liked this better than [b:The Constant Princess|16181|The Constant Princess (Tudors, #1)|Philippa Gregory|http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1344397281s/16181.jpg|1745738]. I have always enjoyed learning about Henry's 6 wives--the show The Tudors is a guilty pleasure of mine. I enjoyed seeing Anne through her sister's eyes. It did drag now and then, for instance, how long it took Anne and Henry to marry. I know it took awhile in real life, but the endless waiting seems to be a somewhat common theme with Philippa Gregory's novels.
It was a fun, guilty pleasure read and definitely not to be used as a reference. But it was nice to see some of the names I've always learned about be given back-stories and emotions; it helped me really put myself in those times and realize these people did exist.
It was a fun, guilty pleasure read and definitely not to be used as a reference. But it was nice to see some of the names I've always learned about be given back-stories and emotions; it helped me really put myself in those times and realize these people did exist.
Overall, this was a great read. Throughout the course of reading it, though, I had so many mixed feelings: loved it, hated it, thought it was way too slow moving at points, depressed by it, intrigued, & disgusted. I had very strong reactions to it and any book that can get that emotion from me is doing something right. This was the first Philippa Gregory book I've read, and I originally thought her writing was a little cold, but I think that was more of Mary's point of view and not the author's style.
I enjoy historical pieces -- this one peaked my interest so much that I started researching more about Henry VIII and the English crown lineage after I finished. At 800 pages it can be daunting but don't let that put you off. I found myself unable to put it down and carried it throughout the house with me during the day to read it whenever I could. Highly recommended!
Rank in My Top Ten: #9
Why in My Top Ten:
I majored in Medieval/Renaissance History. I also have a slight obsession with Tudor England and the wives of Henry VIII. This is the best Tudor England Historical Novel out there. One way to determine if a book is satisfying is if you are sad when you finish it. I was really sad when I finished this book because I missed the characters and the drama and the story.
Why in My Top Ten:
I majored in Medieval/Renaissance History. I also have a slight obsession with Tudor England and the wives of Henry VIII. This is the best Tudor England Historical Novel out there. One way to determine if a book is satisfying is if you are sad when you finish it. I was really sad when I finished this book because I missed the characters and the drama and the story.
I’ve always been a historical fiction girl, and for me, this book was IT. I’ve read it likely 20 times by now (it’s my go to anytime I need to read a book I know I’ll enjoy), and my poor books are so used and abused because of it. The time period, drama, romantical conquests, and super secret plans and meetings have me feeling giddy like a 12 year old girl.
-A personal favorite and highly recommended
-A personal favorite and highly recommended
I loved the book. It really gave me insight regarding the politics at the royal court, social climbing, and treatment/use of women during this period. We all know in general about Henry VIII but not so much about each of the women he married besides their names in a history book. Phillipa sriting style kept me reading until late into the evening so much so that I finished the book in 3 days. It you love history, stories about women, or interested in Henry VIII this book is for you. The book also made me eager to read more about this period of time.