By: Philippa Gregory
Two sisters competing for the greatest prize: the love of a kingWhen Mary Boleyn comes to court as an innocent girl of fourteen, she catches the eye of Henry VIII. Dazzled by the king, Mary falls in love with both her golden prince and her growing role as unofficial queen. However, she soon realizes just how much she is a pawn in her familys ambitious plots as the kings interest begins to wane and she is forced to step aside for her best friend and rival: her sister, Anne. Then Mary knows that she must defy her family and her king, and take her fate into her own hands.
A rich and compelling tale of love, sex, ambition, and intrigue, The Other Boleyn Girl introduces a woman of extraordinary determination and desire who lived at the heart of the most exciting and glamorous court in Europe and survived by following her own heart.
Review: ** Note: This book USES historical FACT, however, it is FICTION*** Please don’t get confused. A couple years back, I researched Anne Boleyn’s story. I have always been fascinated by the Tudors, so when I picked this book up, I did not hesitate. I am glad to say that I was not disappointed.
Mary Boleyn was painted as innocent while Anne Boleyn was painted as a seducer. The only problem I found with this was it being black and white. They opposed each other too much to be believable. Later on in the story, when Anne persuades Henry brings his attention to Anne, I felt that I was more interested in Mary’s story. She married a nobody and it seemed quite romantic, in a sense.
The only problem I truly had with this book was the length. I felt most was unnecessary and the detail was often too much and at times the language was a bit too modern. But, I think Gregory is an amazing story teller and the books are beautifully written.
Rating: 5/5
Blakeley The Bookworm 