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We all know the story of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of Henry VIII…the one who lost her head. Philippa Gregory masterfully depicts the wickedness and arrogance of this famous historical figure but also illustrates the immense personal price she paid to be Queen of England (in addition to the beheading). Anne's ambition also managed to ruin the security relied upon by all Tudor-era women by making it a possibility for men to set aside their wives after marriage. Way to go, Anne.

But I thought the real star of the book was Mary Boleyn. I read this book a number of years ago, and I had forgotten it was told from the point of view of Anne's sister. That may sound silly given the title, but Anne was actually the "other Boleyn girl" at the start of the story. Mary sees the royal game for what it is, plays her part willingly but with eyes wide open, and then finds a way to live on her own terms once her duty is done. Philippa Gregory definitely took some liberties as it relates to the history of the real Mary Boleyn, but you'll hear no complaints from me (this is historical fiction, after all). Mary Boleyn now ranks among my favorites of Gregory's many intriguing female protagonists.

If you like historical fiction, powerful leading ladies, and/or taking in the insanity of Tudor England, I highly recommend this one.