Margaret Campbell Barnes has written a powerful book that brought me to tears. No matter what I thought of Anne Boleyn and the machinations to help her gain power, the book itself is an excellent tale of the history of those times.

The first part of the book is a sweet tale of a young Anne at home, growing up, and when she was maid to Katherine of Aragon, Henry's first wife. Her life and the book starts to turn when she falls in love for the first time. She throws all caution to the wind and gives her virginity to her first true love, ensuring, in those times, her probable downfall. The author shows her in such a sympathetic light during those times. But, as the grief ebbs, the anger grows. Ms. Campbell Barnes builds the tale with her decision to let the King court her as he desires, holding back her body, knowing that once he has that he will grow tired of her and turn to another.

The author seems to try to be impartial in judging them. Henry, as King, could get whatever he wanted and also get rid of anything that bothered him.. I think the author did an great job showing us Anne's reasons for her desire to destroy her enemies or those she perceived as enemies standing in her way. In counterpoint she shows Henry's gullibility to what he is told and penchant for getting people to do his bidding, honestly or not. Still, briefly, until she has no life male children, they seem to be in love.

Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Sweet

Reviewer: Dee Dailey
August 6, 2008