The Boleyn Wife

February 1, 2010
Lady Jane Parker is overjoyed when she marries dashing courtier George Boleyn, but her hopes for a loving union are destroyed when she realizes that her husband is forever tied emotionally to his charismatic sister Anne. While riding the wave of the Boleyns' popularity, embittered Jane is privy to every secret and scandal in Henry VIII's court. When Anne wins the English throne, Jane's hatred explodes, and she testifies to George's "unnatural" love for his sister. This rash act signs not only Anne's death warrant but also George's, with lasting repercussions for Jane. VERDICT Though newcomer Purdy's lush writing has promise, her fascination with the Boleyn saga overpowers the plot and provides nothing new. Jane tells the story mostly from behind shrubbery or curtains, which reduces her character to an inactive role and fosters no empathy. Recommended for readers who can't get enough of the Tudors and have devoured all of Philippa Gregory's books.Jamie Kallio, Thomas Ford Memorial Lib., Western Springs, IL

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