Review Labs: The Other Boleyn Girl *No Spoilers*

 

Reading Review: The Other Boleyn Girl

Stats:

• Author: Philippa Gregory
• Historical Fiction, Biographical Fiction, Lite Romance 
• Published 2001
• Preceded by "Three Sisters, Three Queens"
• Followed by "The Boleyn Inheritance"
• Page Count 672 
• Movie Released February 2007 

Disclaimer: I have not watched the movie. I will not be referencing the movie in anyway during this review. This review is strictly written looking at the plot, character development, usage of romance, etc. There are no spoilers in this review. 

    Lengthy but good. "The Other Boleyn Girl" follows an unlikely main character. Most writers would have chosen Anne Boleyn, who was also chosen by King Henry VIII. However, Gregory wrote from the prospective of her sister, Mary. Although the true history may be loosely reference in this book, readers get the gist. Those who are truly interested in the Boleyn Family and King Henry's reign, have the freedom of different books. If you want the round-about fiction with historical flavor, this book is for you. 

    The author is well versed in this period of history, as stated in her bio. However, this is not a history book. You are gripped wit the twists and turns offered by the Boleyn family who are pushing their girls in the wake of a king. Although the romance doesn't have much spice, it has enough to keep the reader interested and pulling for Mary or Henry to make the next move. Cat and mouse becomes more intense as the stakes get higher and the family dynamics become a mess. 

    Anne also proves to be a force not to be touched by the faint of heart. Anne and Mary have completely different mannerisms and focuses within the book, the creates almost an internal tug-of-war. Sisterly competition for the king's and their family's affection greatly comes into play. 

    Between Queen Katherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, their uncle and father, King Henry VIII, and Mary, the characters become live puppets in a plot that only thickens in classical history. Gregory's writing is beautiful and engaging. Keep in mind her hooks are continuous throughout each chapter, beckoning your eyes to read more.  

    Lastly, if you are looking for a deep history focused book in King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn, this is not the book for you. However, if you enjoy the dynamics of the Tudor Dynasty and want to imagine what it would be like to be in his court, this is the book for you. Let your imagination take you into a fictional world, that may not be fiction to some, but the bitter truth. 

Overall Rating 7.5/10 

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