By Megan Andres, Grand Rapids Public Library, Seymour Branch

Mary Boleyn, brought to court at fourteen, soon catches the eye of the lecherous Henry VIII. She begins a dashing affair with England’s king and begins to love her role as the unofficial queen. After the birth of two children, Mary begins to see her family for what they really are.

Her own uncle begins pushing Mary’s own sister Anne at the king. Soon, Mary is forced to step aside as her best friend and worst rival begins an affair with Henry. The world knows the story of Anne Boleyn—a young girl who twists a marriage out of King Henry VIII. But many do not know how she got there.

Mary is forced to find a life for herself and her illegitimate children while her uncle demands her support in bettering Anne’s position at court. She is present for all of Anne’s triumphs: Henry’s divorce from Katherine of Aragon, her marriage to the king, and the birth of Elizabeth. She is also present for the disasters: Anne’s miscarriage of a prince, her brother George’s arrest for treason and Anne’s execution.

Sibling rivalry takes on a whole new meaning between the Boleyn girls. Author Philippa Gregory takes the story and fleshes it out. She brings a morality tale to a historical event. This book is a real treat for any history buff.