This is the second in the author's six novel series tracing the lives of Henry VIII's six wives. Anne Boleyn, along with Katherine of Aragon, were by far the most significant of Henry's wives, their relationships with him having huge political and religious significance. Anne is a fascinating character. Initially repelled by the King after he has used and discarded her older sister Mary, he pursues her relentlessly, but she learns from her sister's experiences and holds him at bay, refusing to become his lover and yet another to-be-discarded mistress.....anyway, the story is too well known to be recounted here. My view of Anne Boleyn is mixed. She was undoubtedly innocent of the absurd and vile charges which led to her show trial and execution in May 1536 alongside five men, including her own brother, and the last few chapters of the novel covering these events is almost unbearably gripping and suspenseful, even though the reader knows the outcome. And yet, Anne was also manipulative and once she'd decided to use the King's obsession with her to ride to supreme power as Queen, she became increasingly mean and nasty, eventually wishing the deaths of Katherine and the latter's daughter Mary, still a child or very young woman at this time. She was a victim of her own hubris, eventually betrayed not only by her husband, but also by her uncle, who presided at her trial, and her father, who was one of her judges who voted for her guilt. Eventually, ironically, it was her sister Mary who came out of it the best, happily married to a Calais garrison soldier William Stafford. A wonderful, colourful novel, this has everything in terms of highs and lows, as per its subject life. ( )

Alison Weir has done a great deal of research on the Tudor queens, and this novel about Anne Boleyn shows it. The author presents Anne as a multi-faceted person. Anne is not only ambitious but also compassionate at times. She cares about her family while pursuing the power she craved. Weir writes an author's note at the end that explains why she portrayed Anne as she did. I am impressed with the historical accuracy of much of the story. I got a good feel for the Tudor court at the time and can only conclude that I'm glad I wasn't there. ( )

3.5 stars ( )

This novel has changed my view of Anne Boleyn. I have learned a lot about Anne Boleyn and was intrigued by the idea that not only her inability to bear a son (which was not her fault), but also her intelligence and wit cost her her life. This novel will get back on my re-read list, and I might have to dedicate a while to re-read the entire series.
I am always impressed by the detailed descriptions of the Tudor court and life at the time in general. ( )

I liked this better than I thought and better than last year's Katherine of Aragon novel. Some modern stereotyping of Anne as a feminist. Otherwise well done. ( )