Eric Ives (1931–2012)

This book gave me everything I wanted from Henry VIII by J.J. Scarisbrick but didn't get. This book truly does focus on the subject. You are given historical details but they are always tied to Anne's life. For example it discusses the culture of France as this influenced the arts that she promoted and introduced to the Tudor Court.

I was quite surprised at how much I enjoyed this book! Anne is definitely portrayed in a more negative light than she deserves. Our perception comes from the Spanish ambassador at the time who of course was on the side of Catherine and her daughter Mary. This book has inspired me to read more about famous historical figures that are women.… (more)

An exhaustive (and sometimes exhausting) look at the Queen who changed the course of English and world history. What this book does very well is examine all the minutiae we have of the Anne Boleyn period, from inventories of plate and bed hangings, to portraits and jewelry. And it dissects and analyzes all the accounts we have of this happening and that, judging why this account based on rumor is likely to be true, and why the other may not.

Where it failed for me is conveying an emotional connection to Anne Boleyn herself. It feels a bit cold, and detached, and parts are tedious - pages upon pages about each cup and prayer book, though if you're fascinated by such things, you'll be in antique heaven.

Still, there are many, many details here I've not found in other books about Anne or this period, so it's invaluable as a reference. It takes the point of view that Anne's downfall was due more to Cromwell seeing her as a threat and taking her and her "party" out of the way, than by the King seeking to dispose of her in order to marry Jane Seymour (not that he wasted any time doing so). Definitely belongs on the shelf of all Tudor-philes.

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