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The Other Boleyn girl tells the story of Mary, King Henry the VIII's mistress before he met and married Mary's sister, the more well-known Ann. This is a great story, beautifully written and completely interesting from beginning to end. Written from Mary's point of view, the story elaborates on the theme that both Mary and Ann were pawns in the Boleyn family's push for upward mobility. This is the first book I have read by Philippa Gregory, and I am looking forward to receiving The Queen's Fool so that I may read that, as well. There are events in her novel, however, that some historians do not believe occurred. For instance, in this book, Henry fathers Mary's first two children while she was married to (but living separately from) her husband. Some historians dispute this allegation and believe that Mary was the king's mistress prior to her marriage and that her children were the offspring of both Mary and her husband--and concieved very much after the affair ended. Regardless, these are events that will most likely always be in dispute and have been, thus far, impossible to prove definitively either way. And, Philippa Gregory chooses the option that makes for a better story and more empathetic character. Good for her. This novel transports the reader through time and is difficult to put down. I also recommend The Autobiography of Henry VIII, by Margaret George, for another fictionalized first-person account of this era in British history.Read full review
I loved this book! Having long been fascinated with Tudor history, this book contains it all from the infamous Henry Vlll's court--love, power, sex, social climbing, jealousy, envy, & money. Though some of the facts may be twisted, the book is meant for enjoyment, and even if you wish a light love story to re-read. Many people know that Ann Boleyn was Henry Vlll's mistress and queen who he left his wife, Katharine of Aragon for, but few know that Mary Boleyn was the king's mistress first. This book gives a wonderful insight and creative outlook on life in the Tudor court and how precarious court life was in those times. The descriptions of the court dress, estates, castles, makes the story come alive! Highly recommend for curling next to the fire with--a great read!!
This was the first book I had ever read by this author, and I began reading it on a plane departing from Chicago. Fifteen minutes later, I was totally engrossed by it. I am one for historical period novels as it is, and I must say I was extremely impressed by this book. In fact, I have reread it repeatedly, probably in the neighorhood of 15-20 times, and still enjoy it just as much as the first time. Although the story is predominately about Anne Boleyn, the title is in itself apt, as it is told by 'the other Boleyn girl', Mary Boleyn, and told from her viewpoint. Although this book is a work of fiction, the people involved did exist, and the facts were prevelant throughout. Ms. Gregory certainly did her research on this novel, and it shows. Ms. Gregory not only did her research well, but her writing skills are excellent. She has brought all those characters to life, and you can easily imagine things she has described from Mary's viewpoint as actually being told by her. It seems almost like a diary from her life, and I really enjoyed it. If you like historical fiction, then I would suggest this book. This one has it all - fashions, politics, court life, royalty, romance (no, this is not a romance novel) and intrigues. It has something for everyone that likes this genre of book, and I *highly* recommend it!Read full review
I initially checked this book out at the library, and decided it was too long to read in the allotted time, so I decided to buy it so I could read at my leisure. I really wanted to read the book but thought it would take an eternity. Little did I know that once I got past the first 20 pages or so, I wouldn't be able to put it down. Don't let the length of the book put you off; the story is so enchanting you will no longer notice (or care) how long the book is. Philippa Gregory brings Henry VIII's court to vibrant life; you can almost feel the nervous tension, excitement, and fear of the people involved. The characters are so real, the writing so descriptive, it is like being there. If you have any interest in Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, or the Tudors, I highly recommend this book. You will finish the book only to want more!Read full review
I recommend this book to teens and young adults. Easy read with great content and solid story line. Consistent characters and some of the story is true. I have finished reading it for the third time and will pass it on to a friend.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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