Review: Anne & Henry by Dawn Ius

Publication Date: September 1, 2015

Date read: December 10, 2019

Rating: 4/5

Format: Hardcover

Recommendation percentage: Not really

 

 

 

 

 

Anne & Henry is a contemporary retelling of the infamous yet very real relationship between Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn. In this version, Henry is a popular rich boy with political ambitions and Anne is the typical rebellious outsider. I bought the book because it was $1 in Book Outlet, but I was genuinely interested in it. As a history fan, I was excited to read this book and see what the author would do with the story. The Tudor period is a particular favorite of mine, and Anne’s fatal rise and fall is a story made for literature.

“My new world is etched in diamonds and sealed in gold, drowning in pretension.” 
― Dawn Ius, Anne & Henry

The story is told by both Anne’s and Henry’s perspective, which gives the reader a clear view of their voice. The spark between them, was there, you immediately feel it at the start of the book. Henry’s uncertainty and Anne’s mischievousness jump out clearly. I can definitely imagine the real people react in the way their characters do in the book. I thought Henry came out much nicer than he actually was through most of the book, but in the end, you can truly see he is a dick.

I was worried as to how the book would end. In case you don’t know, real-life Anne was accused of being unfaithful to the king, for which she was found guilty. Henry sentenced her to death by decapitation, but as a present to his wife, he hired a man from France who was known to sever the head in one clean blow. (What a great present, huh?)

Of course, this book wouldn’t end like that, but I was hoping the ending would be just as dramatic and tragic. I must say I was satisfied with it, the ending made the whole book significantly better. Even Jane Seymour (Henry’s next wife) made a small appearance, which was fun.

There are some secondary characters that add subplots and complexity to the story, but most of them fell a bit flat, they are unmemorable.

The writing was intelligent, both Anne and Henry have their own clear voice.

Overall I really liked the tone of this book and the story was entertaining. If you like retellings and historical fiction with a twist you’ll love this.

Have you read any books that retell real stories? What are some of your favorites?