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The Queen’s Necklace
The most famous necklace in the world has finally been found…
Bryher Finch’s life isn’t just a disaster, it’s a catastrophe, until a chance invitation to chart her family tree changes everything. As Bryher uncovers the ancestry she never knew about, she stumbles on the find of the century – Anne Boleyn’s ‘B’ necklace, as enigmatic as Henry VIII’s most notorious Queen herself.
But Bryher isn’t the only one who wants the necklace…
Readers love The Queen's Necklace:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'A great story set in my favourite period in history. Well developed characters who walked off the page. A very emotive story line with the ups and downs of Tudor times and the contrast with the modern day. Very clever with a lovely conclusion.'
⭐⭐⭐⭐'Historical fiction fans will love this. I couldn't put it down and I read it in one sitting. It was brilliantly written and it's obvious that the author has done their research for the book as the attention to detail of the time period was spot on'
⭐⭐⭐⭐'The mystery of Anne Boleyn's famous B necklace is always something I have wondered about, so to read this was a treat! A unique novel with a fresh twist on the Tudor stories.'
⭐⭐⭐⭐'I was caught up in a compelling tale about risking it all. If ‘what if’ stories, ancestry tracing, and family trees fascinate you, you’ll want to investigate this fantastic historical fiction.'
Bryher Finch’s life isn’t just a disaster, it’s a catastrophe, until a chance invitation to chart her family tree changes everything. As Bryher uncovers the ancestry she never knew about, she stumbles on the find of the century – Anne Boleyn’s ‘B’ necklace, as enigmatic as Henry VIII’s most notorious Queen herself.
But Bryher isn’t the only one who wants the necklace…
Readers love The Queen's Necklace:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'A great story set in my favourite period in history. Well developed characters who walked off the page. A very emotive story line with the ups and downs of Tudor times and the contrast with the modern day. Very clever with a lovely conclusion.'
⭐⭐⭐⭐'Historical fiction fans will love this. I couldn't put it down and I read it in one sitting. It was brilliantly written and it's obvious that the author has done their research for the book as the attention to detail of the time period was spot on'
⭐⭐⭐⭐'The mystery of Anne Boleyn's famous B necklace is always something I have wondered about, so to read this was a treat! A unique novel with a fresh twist on the Tudor stories.'
⭐⭐⭐⭐'I was caught up in a compelling tale about risking it all. If ‘what if’ stories, ancestry tracing, and family trees fascinate you, you’ll want to investigate this fantastic historical fiction.'
- GenresHistorical Fiction
411 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 25, 2025
103 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
About the author
Adrienne Chinn
15 books101 followersAdrienne Chinn was born in Grand Falls, Newfoundland, grew up in Quebec, and eventually made her way to London, England after a career as a journalist. In Britain she worked as a TV and film researcher before embarking on a career as an interior designer, lecturer, and writer.
Her second novel, The English Wife -- a timeslip story set in World War II England and contemporary Newfoundland -- was published in June 2020 and has become an international bestseller. Her debut novel, The Lost Letter, was published by Avon Books UK in 2019. Her third novel, Love in a Time of War, the first in The Three Fry Sisters series centred around three English sisters, was published in 2022, with the second book in the series, The Paris Sister, following in 2023. The third book in the series, In the Shadow of War, was published in 2024. A stand alone historical timeslip novel, The Queen's Necklace, will be published in 2025, and the fourth book in The Three Fry Sisters series will be published in 2026.
Her second novel, The English Wife -- a timeslip story set in World War II England and contemporary Newfoundland -- was published in June 2020 and has become an international bestseller. Her debut novel, The Lost Letter, was published by Avon Books UK in 2019. Her third novel, Love in a Time of War, the first in The Three Fry Sisters series centred around three English sisters, was published in 2022, with the second book in the series, The Paris Sister, following in 2023. The third book in the series, In the Shadow of War, was published in 2024. A stand alone historical timeslip novel, The Queen's Necklace, will be published in 2025, and the fourth book in The Three Fry Sisters series will be published in 2026.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
September 25, 2025
I’ve always wondered why, in the Tudor world where Henry VIII loomed large, overshadowing his wives, would Queen Anne choose to sport her maiden name by wearing the infamous ‘B’ necklace? Convinced it was more about her legacy, I was excited to read Adrienne Chin’s novel featuring this same iconic necklace.
Chin highlights two sets of sisters: one contemporary and one historical. Disgraced celebrity sister, Bryher Finch, and banished sister, Marnie, are linked with two English royals, sisters Queen Anne Boleyn and Lady Mary.
I was caught up in a compelling tale about risking it all. Bryher and Anne discover that their predicament is much like life at court - ‘in’ one minute and ‘out’ the next. The legacy of the Queen’s necklace lives on, sparkling brighter than the accusations Anne faced in her 1000-day reign. Likewise with Bryher’s predicament. Time spent flying under the radar and a new challenge proved to be just what Bryher needed.
If ‘what if’ stories, ancestry tracing, and family trees fascinate you, you’ll want to investigate this fantastic historical fiction.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Chin highlights two sets of sisters: one contemporary and one historical. Disgraced celebrity sister, Bryher Finch, and banished sister, Marnie, are linked with two English royals, sisters Queen Anne Boleyn and Lady Mary.
I was caught up in a compelling tale about risking it all. Bryher and Anne discover that their predicament is much like life at court - ‘in’ one minute and ‘out’ the next. The legacy of the Queen’s necklace lives on, sparkling brighter than the accusations Anne faced in her 1000-day reign. Likewise with Bryher’s predicament. Time spent flying under the radar and a new challenge proved to be just what Bryher needed.
If ‘what if’ stories, ancestry tracing, and family trees fascinate you, you’ll want to investigate this fantastic historical fiction.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
August 13, 2025
Thank you for allowing me to review this book. I have read a few books by this author and had high expectations. The story is set along two timelines about two sets of sisters; Mary and Anne Boleyn, and Marnie and Bryher Finch. The story begins with Bryher and Marnie in modern times and we learn a little about their childhood as young actresses. Mary and Anne are the Tudor sisters of a wealthy family. Both families have difficult relationships. I enjoyed the Tudor story more than the modern day story. Bryher, was not a likeable person. The story about the necklace was interesting although it became quite predictable. As a reader who has read many historical fiction the Tudor story was also obvious.
Although I found this book an easy read it was not as enjoyable as the previous books I've read by Adrienne Chinn.
Although I found this book an easy read it was not as enjoyable as the previous books I've read by Adrienne Chinn.
December 6, 2025
The story is about an actress who, after a family scandal, tries to avoid the consequences by going on a journey during which she learns that she is a descendant of the Boleyn family. It is a story set in two time periods, the present day and the past, full of intrigue and scandals.
Although the content of the story seems very intriguing, the result was not what I expected. However, it remains a book of interest to me.
Although the content of the story seems very intriguing, the result was not what I expected. However, it remains a book of interest to me.
October 14, 2025
Hollywood actress Bryher Finch finds herself at the centre of a marriage implosion scandal and has to travel to England to film a short where she discovers she is descended from Anne Boleyn's family. The only work she can get is playing Anne in a tv miniseries and she ends up lodging with her newly discovered cousin. Mary Boleyn is everything a good 16th century woman should but after scandal in France she finds herself disgraced once more and her sister's star rising.
This is a dual timeline novel which plays out a modern day theme of betrayal and scandal against the story of the Boleyn sisters with the tenuous theme being the famous 'B' necklace. I found it frustrating as the Boleyn story was too lightweight and lacking detail, jumping from set piece to set piece without any background. The modern day story was a little too farfetched so the whole book didn't really work for me.
This is a dual timeline novel which plays out a modern day theme of betrayal and scandal against the story of the Boleyn sisters with the tenuous theme being the famous 'B' necklace. I found it frustrating as the Boleyn story was too lightweight and lacking detail, jumping from set piece to set piece without any background. The modern day story was a little too farfetched so the whole book didn't really work for me.
July 28, 2025
I do love a good historical fiction book especially when it's the Tudor era. I have mixed feelings on this book i didn't love it but I didn't hate it either. I loved that the story looks at the viewpoint of both Mary and Ann Boleyn but I think there were a few historical inaccuracies which annoyed me a little bit. The idea of the MFV being related to these two historical women was a great idea but I did find her a bit annoying and whining. The storylines were OK but to be honest, I've read better. A good quick read but not one I would recommend for historical accuracy if you want to learn more about The Tudors.
July 15, 2025
The Queen's necklace is a upcoming dual timeline story. I will admit that I have always loved everything involving the Tudors! It was overall a very good book and I give it five stars. However, I was more fond of the historical timeline rather than the modern. The characters in the modern one were to self centered and not very likeable. However despite that complaint I still enjoyed reading the book.
In the modern world we are introduced Bryher who is an actress who can't seem to avoid scandal. On a trip to uncover her family roots she discovers that she is decended from Mary Boleyn sister of Anne Boleyn Queen of England. From there it all goes to Bryher's head and her own ambitions.
In the sixteenth century we are introduced to Mary and Anne Boleyn. Mary is jealous that Anne seems to get all the good opportunities. However, while in the french court she catches the eye of King Francis until Anne ruins it by tattleling. Shortly afterwards she catches the eye of King Henry VIII untill he casts her aside for Anne.
In the modern world we are introduced Bryher who is an actress who can't seem to avoid scandal. On a trip to uncover her family roots she discovers that she is decended from Mary Boleyn sister of Anne Boleyn Queen of England. From there it all goes to Bryher's head and her own ambitions.
In the sixteenth century we are introduced to Mary and Anne Boleyn. Mary is jealous that Anne seems to get all the good opportunities. However, while in the french court she catches the eye of King Francis until Anne ruins it by tattleling. Shortly afterwards she catches the eye of King Henry VIII untill he casts her aside for Anne.
October 5, 2025
I want to start by saying the amount of historical research that Chinn did for this book was quite extensive and was clearly demonstrated in the chapters focused on Anne Boleyn and her family. I not only appreciated the level of detail but found it refreshing for a work of fiction to stick to the historical record with such diligence.
I also appreciated the conflict over the necklace. It was something that kept me intrigued throughout the book and is the only reason that I continued to read this book.
However, I am sorry to say that overall, I hated this book. Although I do think that part of my hatred is a testament to Chinn's ability to write morally grey characters. She did such a good job that there was not a single person in this book that I liked. Bijou was the only redeeming character.
I found Bryer insufferable and so inconsistent throughout the course of the story. About three-quarters of the way through the book, she seems to have a complete change of heart regarding committing theft, and it is not at all clear to me why this is the case. Furthermore, her obsession with fame made her both unrelatable and naive in a way that was frustrating to witness as the book continued.
Even the chapters focused on Mary and Anne Boleyn did not save this book for me, and I LOVE anything related to the Boleyn family. They both seemed written to the stereotypes that historiographies have made of them over the years. It was believable that Anne valued the good name of the Bolyens and that she would have seen Mary's choices as in direct conflict with this sometimes, but Anne's entire personality felt like it lacked any warmth. Even when hints were made about Henry Percy or her daughter of Elizabeth, Chinn did not explore Anne's less calculating side.
The fact that there were also multiple timelines and multiple perspectives made this book hard to keep up with. We would go back in time to the 16th century and then the early 2000s, while also following Bryer in 2025, which presented a lot of information that was sometimes difficult to process. Also, I'm not sure what the purpose of all of these timelines was. Perhaps it was just a byproduct of the book's structure, but I kept looking for connections that were not really there.
At the beginning of the book, I thought that Chinn was trying to draw a modern comparison with Bryer's story to Anne's 16th-century one. However, those dots never really connected for me, and any resolution that might have helped with that conclusion was so separated in the plot that it requires a lot of work on the part of the reader to make those connections. I mean, Bryer's husband simply did not believe her because he had another woman on the side was such a stretch of the two stories in my opinion. Although I was distracted by Bryer's relationship with Peiter and how much he gave me the ick that it's possible my attention was elsewhere.
There was a stronger argument for the juxtaposition of Anne and Mary's relationship and Bryer and Marnie's relationship, but even that fell flat. Quite frankly, Marnie felt more like a plot device to humanize Bryer rather than a character of any substance. It's also clear that the emotional abuse that they both suffered from their mother resulted in psychological trauma. Something that I don't think is consistent with how the Boleyn sisters were treated within their own family. The only comparison I was able to make on that front was the competition that both sets of sisters felt based on their perceived standing within their family.
This book had potential, but it just was not for me. And the ending was so confusing and then infuriating that I wanted to throw my phone out of sheer frustration.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
CONTENT WARNINGS
Graphic: Emotional abuse, Infidelity, Misogyny, Toxic relationship, Grief, Gaslighting, Toxic friendship, Alcohol, Classism
Moderate: Death, Sexual content, Death of a parent
Minor: Chronic illness, Drug use, Suicide
I also appreciated the conflict over the necklace. It was something that kept me intrigued throughout the book and is the only reason that I continued to read this book.
However, I am sorry to say that overall, I hated this book. Although I do think that part of my hatred is a testament to Chinn's ability to write morally grey characters. She did such a good job that there was not a single person in this book that I liked. Bijou was the only redeeming character.
I found Bryer insufferable and so inconsistent throughout the course of the story. About three-quarters of the way through the book, she seems to have a complete change of heart regarding committing theft, and it is not at all clear to me why this is the case. Furthermore, her obsession with fame made her both unrelatable and naive in a way that was frustrating to witness as the book continued.
Even the chapters focused on Mary and Anne Boleyn did not save this book for me, and I LOVE anything related to the Boleyn family. They both seemed written to the stereotypes that historiographies have made of them over the years. It was believable that Anne valued the good name of the Bolyens and that she would have seen Mary's choices as in direct conflict with this sometimes, but Anne's entire personality felt like it lacked any warmth. Even when hints were made about Henry Percy or her daughter of Elizabeth, Chinn did not explore Anne's less calculating side.
The fact that there were also multiple timelines and multiple perspectives made this book hard to keep up with. We would go back in time to the 16th century and then the early 2000s, while also following Bryer in 2025, which presented a lot of information that was sometimes difficult to process. Also, I'm not sure what the purpose of all of these timelines was. Perhaps it was just a byproduct of the book's structure, but I kept looking for connections that were not really there.
At the beginning of the book, I thought that Chinn was trying to draw a modern comparison with Bryer's story to Anne's 16th-century one. However, those dots never really connected for me, and any resolution that might have helped with that conclusion was so separated in the plot that it requires a lot of work on the part of the reader to make those connections. I mean, Bryer's husband simply did not believe her because he had another woman on the side was such a stretch of the two stories in my opinion. Although I was distracted by Bryer's relationship with Peiter and how much he gave me the ick that it's possible my attention was elsewhere.
There was a stronger argument for the juxtaposition of Anne and Mary's relationship and Bryer and Marnie's relationship, but even that fell flat. Quite frankly, Marnie felt more like a plot device to humanize Bryer rather than a character of any substance. It's also clear that the emotional abuse that they both suffered from their mother resulted in psychological trauma. Something that I don't think is consistent with how the Boleyn sisters were treated within their own family. The only comparison I was able to make on that front was the competition that both sets of sisters felt based on their perceived standing within their family.
This book had potential, but it just was not for me. And the ending was so confusing and then infuriating that I wanted to throw my phone out of sheer frustration.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
CONTENT WARNINGS
Graphic: Emotional abuse, Infidelity, Misogyny, Toxic relationship, Grief, Gaslighting, Toxic friendship, Alcohol, Classism
Moderate: Death, Sexual content, Death of a parent
Minor: Chronic illness, Drug use, Suicide
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2025
Adrienne Chinn's "The Queen's Necklace" is a dual timeline historical fiction, bound by the possession of a pearl and golden B necklace, most famously worn by Anne Boleyn (the second wife of King Henry the eighth).
It seems today that half the world claims to be related to sisters Mary or Anne Boleyn. And so it was for Bryher and Betty. Distantly related cousins from opposite life experiences, thrown together by a TV programme investigating this Boleyn connection. Bryher is a down and out American TV star, plagued by bad publicity and a steamy sex tape which ripped her marriage and career apart.
Betty is conservative cat lady who shops op shops and wears hand me downs. But has a generous heart of gold....if not a touch naive. Under her bed is thought to be the famous B necklace....priceless but gathering dust. Once news of its discovery reaches a jewelry expert and an insurance man, a caper of theft unfolds.
We explore the lives of Mary and Anne Boleyn as they mature to desirable young women in the 1500s English and French courts. Ambitious to make a good marriage....but also silly enough to believe all advances are sincere. Sisterly squabbles and power struggles between them see the famous B necklace (commissioned by their father for the elder daughter Mary) passing backwards and forwards between them.
History knows the fate of Anne, when her king falls out of love with her. And the fate of the necklace is nodded too, but as to how it got to Betty (who thinks it is a fake piece of bling) is still a mystery.....maybe there is potential for further books to explore this lineage.
I enjoyed both storylines equally. A history lesson and a dive into the stresses of Hollywood fame. The kindness of Betty gives us all hope in a mad world! She was Bryher's best find.
Thanks to NetGalley, Adrienne Chinn and One More Chapter for my copy.
It seems today that half the world claims to be related to sisters Mary or Anne Boleyn. And so it was for Bryher and Betty. Distantly related cousins from opposite life experiences, thrown together by a TV programme investigating this Boleyn connection. Bryher is a down and out American TV star, plagued by bad publicity and a steamy sex tape which ripped her marriage and career apart.
Betty is conservative cat lady who shops op shops and wears hand me downs. But has a generous heart of gold....if not a touch naive. Under her bed is thought to be the famous B necklace....priceless but gathering dust. Once news of its discovery reaches a jewelry expert and an insurance man, a caper of theft unfolds.
We explore the lives of Mary and Anne Boleyn as they mature to desirable young women in the 1500s English and French courts. Ambitious to make a good marriage....but also silly enough to believe all advances are sincere. Sisterly squabbles and power struggles between them see the famous B necklace (commissioned by their father for the elder daughter Mary) passing backwards and forwards between them.
History knows the fate of Anne, when her king falls out of love with her. And the fate of the necklace is nodded too, but as to how it got to Betty (who thinks it is a fake piece of bling) is still a mystery.....maybe there is potential for further books to explore this lineage.
I enjoyed both storylines equally. A history lesson and a dive into the stresses of Hollywood fame. The kindness of Betty gives us all hope in a mad world! She was Bryher's best find.
Thanks to NetGalley, Adrienne Chinn and One More Chapter for my copy.
November 12, 2025
I enjoyed this easy read multiple timeline historical fiction book. The main thread is set in the present and follows Bryher Finch, an American soap star who is married a famous actor. However, following the release of a sex tape, seemingly showing Bryher having a romp with her husband‘s brother and an unknown woman, her career and her marriage are both in freefall. In the past we go back to Bryher childhood and the 1500’s where Anne Boleyn and her sister Mary are being groomed for marriage by their status hungry father, from 13 year old Anne being sent abroad to her untimely demise when she looses favour with Henry VIII.
Briefly, with her star in the descent Bryher has no choice but to accept work in England. She has no money as her husband has cancelled all her cards and her agent is less than helpful. Her only option is to move in with her newly found relative Betty. Then Bryher accidentally finds a necklace at Bettys home that looks very like the famous B necklace worn by Anne Boleyn in a number of portraits but the original necklace was assumed destroyed.
I’m a bit obsessed with the Tudors so that was my motivation for reading this. The historical part was very enjoyable but jumped through a long time period in relatively few words. The present seemed to be the largest part of the book. My only real issue with it was most of these people were pretty horrible. I really hoped Bryher was going to come to her senses and sack her agent and act like a normal human rather than an entitled brat. I get that she was a product of her upbringing but she had an opportunity to change. Told from multiple POVs there is a clear comparison being made between the sister relationships, Jane and Mary and Bryher and her sister Marnie. The plot was fun and a little far fetched but made compulsive reading and I found it an entertaining read.
3,5⭐️
Briefly, with her star in the descent Bryher has no choice but to accept work in England. She has no money as her husband has cancelled all her cards and her agent is less than helpful. Her only option is to move in with her newly found relative Betty. Then Bryher accidentally finds a necklace at Bettys home that looks very like the famous B necklace worn by Anne Boleyn in a number of portraits but the original necklace was assumed destroyed.
I’m a bit obsessed with the Tudors so that was my motivation for reading this. The historical part was very enjoyable but jumped through a long time period in relatively few words. The present seemed to be the largest part of the book. My only real issue with it was most of these people were pretty horrible. I really hoped Bryher was going to come to her senses and sack her agent and act like a normal human rather than an entitled brat. I get that she was a product of her upbringing but she had an opportunity to change. Told from multiple POVs there is a clear comparison being made between the sister relationships, Jane and Mary and Bryher and her sister Marnie. The plot was fun and a little far fetched but made compulsive reading and I found it an entertaining read.
3,5⭐️
September 29, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for this eCopy to review
The Queen’s Necklace blends historical intrigue, family drama, and a touch of celebrity chaos into a dual-timeline
📿 Plot Summary
Bryher Finch’s life is in freefall. Once a glamorous Hollywood actress, she’s now tabloid fodder after a scandalous tape and a messy divorce. When she’s invited to trace her ancestry on a British genealogy show, she stumbles upon a shocking connection: she’s distantly related to Anne Boleyn! Plus her cousin Betty may be in possession of the infamous pearl-and-gold “B” necklace.
As Bryher and Betty navigate the fallout of this discovery, the story flashes back to the Tudor court, where sisters Mary and Anne Boleyn vie for power, affection, and survival. The necklace becomes a symbol of ambition, betrayal, and legacy passed between sisters, and across centuries.
💗 What I Liked
Historical Detail: Chinn clearly did her research. The Tudor timeline is rich with courtly drama and emotional stakes.
Betty’s Heart: A quiet, cat-loving character who grounds the modern storyline with warmth and sincerity.
Dual Timelines: The mirroring of sisterly dynamics—Mary and Anne vs. Bryher and Marnie—is clever,
The Premise: A lost royal necklace, a disgraced actress, and a family mystery? It’s a compelling setup.
🌀 Final Thoughts
The Queen’s Necklace is a light historical fiction. If you enjoy ancestry mysteries and Tudor drama, this one’s worth a read.
The Queen’s Necklace blends historical intrigue, family drama, and a touch of celebrity chaos into a dual-timeline
📿 Plot Summary
Bryher Finch’s life is in freefall. Once a glamorous Hollywood actress, she’s now tabloid fodder after a scandalous tape and a messy divorce. When she’s invited to trace her ancestry on a British genealogy show, she stumbles upon a shocking connection: she’s distantly related to Anne Boleyn! Plus her cousin Betty may be in possession of the infamous pearl-and-gold “B” necklace.
As Bryher and Betty navigate the fallout of this discovery, the story flashes back to the Tudor court, where sisters Mary and Anne Boleyn vie for power, affection, and survival. The necklace becomes a symbol of ambition, betrayal, and legacy passed between sisters, and across centuries.
💗 What I Liked
Historical Detail: Chinn clearly did her research. The Tudor timeline is rich with courtly drama and emotional stakes.
Betty’s Heart: A quiet, cat-loving character who grounds the modern storyline with warmth and sincerity.
Dual Timelines: The mirroring of sisterly dynamics—Mary and Anne vs. Bryher and Marnie—is clever,
The Premise: A lost royal necklace, a disgraced actress, and a family mystery? It’s a compelling setup.
🌀 Final Thoughts
The Queen’s Necklace is a light historical fiction. If you enjoy ancestry mysteries and Tudor drama, this one’s worth a read.
October 1, 2025
2.5 stars. The Queen's Necklace is a standalone book by Adrienne Chin. It follows Bryher, a Hollywood actress, embroiled in romantic scandal, that discovers she is a descendant of the Boleyn family. She is chosen to act in a miniseries about Anne Boleyn and King Henry VIII. She discovers what she thinks is the actual famous B necklace of Anne's. in the meanwhile, there are scenes from the past featuring Anne, Henry and even Mary Boleyn.
I am a big Tudorfile. I chose to read this book because I love this time period. If Ancestry can believed, there is a chance I'm related to Henry VII myself. I own an Amazon version of the B necklace myself, as my last name also starts with B. So I was excited to read this story, despite this being a new-to-me author. However, I was disappointed. This book is full of unlikable characters. Bryher is the worst. No one liked her. The only person slightly likeable was her elderly cousin Betty. I thought the story was interesting and had potential. I just didn't understand why the author chose to make Bryher so unsufferable. Also, this book is not a romance, despite being shelved as such on Netgalley, and I would not have chosen to read it if that had been disclosed. There is a mystery involving the necklace and that is the only reason I finished the book as I wanted to find out what happened. Unfortunately, in general, this book was a miss for me.
*arc provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
I am a big Tudorfile. I chose to read this book because I love this time period. If Ancestry can believed, there is a chance I'm related to Henry VII myself. I own an Amazon version of the B necklace myself, as my last name also starts with B. So I was excited to read this story, despite this being a new-to-me author. However, I was disappointed. This book is full of unlikable characters. Bryher is the worst. No one liked her. The only person slightly likeable was her elderly cousin Betty. I thought the story was interesting and had potential. I just didn't understand why the author chose to make Bryher so unsufferable. Also, this book is not a romance, despite being shelved as such on Netgalley, and I would not have chosen to read it if that had been disclosed. There is a mystery involving the necklace and that is the only reason I finished the book as I wanted to find out what happened. Unfortunately, in general, this book was a miss for me.
*arc provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
September 24, 2025
The Queen’s Necklace by Adrienne Chinn is an interesting dual timeline story that blends Hollywood glamour with Tudor history. The premise of an American actress discovering she is a descendant of Anne Boleyn is intriguing and kept me reading, but the execution left me feeling mixed.
Some of the dialogue, especially the argument between Bryher and her husband Jake, felt forced and oddly written. It shifted abruptly from a leaked scandal to a family issue in a way that read more like amateur fanfiction than a polished novel. I was also confused by the mention of their wedding being featured in Hello! magazine. Since the couple are portrayed as very famous Hollywood actors, I would have expected their wedding to be highlighted in a magazine like Vogue instead of a British tabloid.
The dual timeline structure was compelling but several of the characters were hard to like. Their selfishness and naivety made certain parts difficult to enjoy. That said, I appreciated the ending and thought it tied the story together nicely, although I would have loved more detail about how Betty originally got the necklace.
Overall, a creative idea with some memorable moments, but uneven writing and characterisation keep it at three stars for me.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC, this review reflects my honest opinion.
Some of the dialogue, especially the argument between Bryher and her husband Jake, felt forced and oddly written. It shifted abruptly from a leaked scandal to a family issue in a way that read more like amateur fanfiction than a polished novel. I was also confused by the mention of their wedding being featured in Hello! magazine. Since the couple are portrayed as very famous Hollywood actors, I would have expected their wedding to be highlighted in a magazine like Vogue instead of a British tabloid.
The dual timeline structure was compelling but several of the characters were hard to like. Their selfishness and naivety made certain parts difficult to enjoy. That said, I appreciated the ending and thought it tied the story together nicely, although I would have loved more detail about how Betty originally got the necklace.
Overall, a creative idea with some memorable moments, but uneven writing and characterisation keep it at three stars for me.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC, this review reflects my honest opinion.
October 25, 2025
Bryher's relationship and career are in tatters. She heads to England and finds a long lost family member and a secret...
The Queen’s Necklace is a dual timeline novel set in the Tudor era and present day but also has flashbacks to show Bryher’s unhappy childhood.
This book is centred around the iconic and infamous B necklace belonging to Henry VIII's second queen Anne Boleyn. The necklace has been missing for centuries but Bryher finds it, then in the Tudor parts we see its origin story and the sibling rivalry that it exacerbated.
I felt that both timelines effectively conveyed the plot and character dynamics. The juxtaposition of the sibling rivalry worked well across the two eras. Anne and Mary Boleyn both capture the heart of a king but have completely different personalities. Margot the agent is just awful, someone I really loved to hate based to her indifference to the effect of her actions. Poor Bry is a pawn for others but is actually incredibly lonely and vulnerable. Betty is brilliant as a calm counterpoint to the frantic catastrophising of Bry.
The historical elements have been well researched and includes important social commentary on the experience of women within patriarchy and the dangers they faced from the men who claimed to love them.
The Queen's Necklace is a cleverly plotted dual timeline book with wonderfully depicted characters.
The Queen’s Necklace is a dual timeline novel set in the Tudor era and present day but also has flashbacks to show Bryher’s unhappy childhood.
This book is centred around the iconic and infamous B necklace belonging to Henry VIII's second queen Anne Boleyn. The necklace has been missing for centuries but Bryher finds it, then in the Tudor parts we see its origin story and the sibling rivalry that it exacerbated.
I felt that both timelines effectively conveyed the plot and character dynamics. The juxtaposition of the sibling rivalry worked well across the two eras. Anne and Mary Boleyn both capture the heart of a king but have completely different personalities. Margot the agent is just awful, someone I really loved to hate based to her indifference to the effect of her actions. Poor Bry is a pawn for others but is actually incredibly lonely and vulnerable. Betty is brilliant as a calm counterpoint to the frantic catastrophising of Bry.
The historical elements have been well researched and includes important social commentary on the experience of women within patriarchy and the dangers they faced from the men who claimed to love them.
The Queen's Necklace is a cleverly plotted dual timeline book with wonderfully depicted characters.
December 21, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins UK/One More Chapter for the digital copy of this book; I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I’ve always wondered what happened to Anne Boleyn’s B necklace that is seen in portraits of her. I don’t think Henry VIII saved it for Elizabeth because he was an absolutely crappy person. Yet, part of me, and obviously, many others think it may still exist. The Queen’s necklace posits that the necklace exists in the 21st century with a dual timeline narrative. This sort of historical fiction is my jam!
This is my first Adrienne Chinn novel, and I was hooked right away. She handles the dual timelines expertly, and the story flows smoothly. Going back and forth from the modern-day to Tudor England could be jolting, but it didn’t feel that way.
I was empathetic with Bryher and what she was going through. A scandal has upended her world. Yet, through her grief she finds hope while looking up her family tree. She discovers that she may be a distant relative to the Boleyn family, which is startling. In the Tudor timeline, there’s the back-and-forth between Anne and Mary Boleyn, sisters and rivals in Henry VIII’s court. They have very distinct personalities, yet they both capture the interest of Henry. It’s sibling rivalry to the tenth degree.
This is the best type of historical fiction, and I really enjoyed this book.
I’ve always wondered what happened to Anne Boleyn’s B necklace that is seen in portraits of her. I don’t think Henry VIII saved it for Elizabeth because he was an absolutely crappy person. Yet, part of me, and obviously, many others think it may still exist. The Queen’s necklace posits that the necklace exists in the 21st century with a dual timeline narrative. This sort of historical fiction is my jam!
This is my first Adrienne Chinn novel, and I was hooked right away. She handles the dual timelines expertly, and the story flows smoothly. Going back and forth from the modern-day to Tudor England could be jolting, but it didn’t feel that way.
I was empathetic with Bryher and what she was going through. A scandal has upended her world. Yet, through her grief she finds hope while looking up her family tree. She discovers that she may be a distant relative to the Boleyn family, which is startling. In the Tudor timeline, there’s the back-and-forth between Anne and Mary Boleyn, sisters and rivals in Henry VIII’s court. They have very distinct personalities, yet they both capture the interest of Henry. It’s sibling rivalry to the tenth degree.
This is the best type of historical fiction, and I really enjoyed this book.
September 21, 2025
This story unfolds across two realities; modern times following Bryher and her sister Marnie, and the Tudor era with their ancestors Anne Boleyn and her sister Mary. Chinn explores a timeless dynamic, the pretty sister everyone hangs their hopes on versus the plainer sister who is intelligent and eventually comes into her own, this is a thread that runs throughout both timelines.
While the mystery of the necklace gets solved a bit early on, there are still several more twists in store to keep you engaged. The author does a good job of layering revelations so that solving one puzzle doesn't end the entire story.
The writing is well done overall, and though it's historically inaccurate at times, the plot remains valid. The story gets a bit hokey with just how many parallels exist between the past and present characters, their personalities and even their professions mirror each other almost too perfectly.
Despite these minor flaws, it's still a cute read that explores sisterhood, beauty standards, a missing, priceless necklace, and finding your own path.
*I was invited to read by the publisher, through NetGalley, for an honest review (Harper Collins-UK/ One More Chapter)
While the mystery of the necklace gets solved a bit early on, there are still several more twists in store to keep you engaged. The author does a good job of layering revelations so that solving one puzzle doesn't end the entire story.
The writing is well done overall, and though it's historically inaccurate at times, the plot remains valid. The story gets a bit hokey with just how many parallels exist between the past and present characters, their personalities and even their professions mirror each other almost too perfectly.
Despite these minor flaws, it's still a cute read that explores sisterhood, beauty standards, a missing, priceless necklace, and finding your own path.
*I was invited to read by the publisher, through NetGalley, for an honest review (Harper Collins-UK/ One More Chapter)
August 16, 2025
Review of The Queen’s Necklace
⭐️⭐️ (2/5 stars)
As someone who adores historical fiction, I went into The Queen’s Necklace with high hopes. Unfortunately, the story didn’t quite work for me. The beginning was very slow, taking far too long to reach the actual heart of the narrative. By the time the plot began to unfold, I had already struggled through so many lengthy passages that my enthusiasm had waned.
There were a few redeeming moments—certain chapters stood out and hinted at the compelling drama this story might have been—but overall, the pacing felt uneven and the execution left me more frustrated than enthralled. Instead of being transported to a world of intrigue and rich historical detail, I found myself counting the pages and waiting for the story to truly begin.
While dedicated fans of the period may still find enjoyment here, I found the novel tedious and am content to leave this particular royal tale in the past.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
⭐️⭐️ (2/5 stars)
As someone who adores historical fiction, I went into The Queen’s Necklace with high hopes. Unfortunately, the story didn’t quite work for me. The beginning was very slow, taking far too long to reach the actual heart of the narrative. By the time the plot began to unfold, I had already struggled through so many lengthy passages that my enthusiasm had waned.
There were a few redeeming moments—certain chapters stood out and hinted at the compelling drama this story might have been—but overall, the pacing felt uneven and the execution left me more frustrated than enthralled. Instead of being transported to a world of intrigue and rich historical detail, I found myself counting the pages and waiting for the story to truly begin.
While dedicated fans of the period may still find enjoyment here, I found the novel tedious and am content to leave this particular royal tale in the past.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
September 12, 2025
First off, I love reading all things Tudor related so I jumped at the chance to request an ARC of The Queen's Necklace. This book is written in a dual timeline with the past being set in Anne Boleyn's world and the present being set in a fictional star's world. This star is named Bryher and she is extremely insufferable. Most of the characters in this book are extremely insufferable. The book itself is way too long for the story being told. It may be written well, but the historical elements were not always correct. At the end, the author only cites two books that she used for her sources. I would hope she utilized more than just that. To me, the accuracy of the Tudor history is more in line with historical fiction books like The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory. With that being said, the past is a lot more enjoyable to read than the present.
Thanks to NetGalley, Adrienne Chinn, HarperCollins UK, and One More Chapter for allowing me to read an advanced reader copy of The Queen's Necklace in the return of an honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley, Adrienne Chinn, HarperCollins UK, and One More Chapter for allowing me to read an advanced reader copy of The Queen's Necklace in the return of an honest review.
September 26, 2025
The lasting portrait we have of the ill-fated Tudor Queen Anne Boleyn features an enigmatic young woman wearing her trademark “B” necklace. This necklace is almost as iconic as the woman herself so to have a modern day mystery based around the whereabouts of this necklace adds an interesting dimension especially when it’s combined with the Tudor period and Anne Boleyn’s relationship with her older sister, Mary, together with Anne’s drive and ambition as she sets out on her path to destiny.
The Queen’s Necklace is an interesting dual time mystery which shows the differences, and some similarities, between characters who have been separated by time. I thought that both time frames were well written, although, for me, the Tudor sections had the edge as this is my favourite period in history and I rather enjoy stories about Anne Boleyn. However, I did enjoy the modern day mystery with Bryher Finch, she’s an interesting character, not always likeable and filled with all sorts of celebrity angst but that added to the overall appeal of the story.
September 26, 2025
Friday, September 26, 2025
The Queen's Necklace
I love Tudor History. This is why I wanted to read this. It started a little slow for me but it quickly picked up. Adrienne Chinn did a excellent job.
The book has two timelines. Anne and Mary Boleyn are sisters vying for attention in the 1500s. Bryher and Marnie are sisters doing the same in 2025. Bryher and her sister are distantly related to Mary Boleyn.
Both timelines are quite similar. I was not fond of Anne or Bryher. They were both the younger sisters. They came across harsh and at times, mean. They were in competition against their sibling. I guess it happens in families.
I did like the ending of Bryher's story. She learned from her mistakes in time to change her behavior. Anne Boleyn realized too late to make any amends. If you know history, Anne found herself in a hot mess and lost her head and life because of this.
It was quite an interesting story. The cover and the title was what interested me at first.
The Queen's Necklace
I love Tudor History. This is why I wanted to read this. It started a little slow for me but it quickly picked up. Adrienne Chinn did a excellent job.
The book has two timelines. Anne and Mary Boleyn are sisters vying for attention in the 1500s. Bryher and Marnie are sisters doing the same in 2025. Bryher and her sister are distantly related to Mary Boleyn.
Both timelines are quite similar. I was not fond of Anne or Bryher. They were both the younger sisters. They came across harsh and at times, mean. They were in competition against their sibling. I guess it happens in families.
I did like the ending of Bryher's story. She learned from her mistakes in time to change her behavior. Anne Boleyn realized too late to make any amends. If you know history, Anne found herself in a hot mess and lost her head and life because of this.
It was quite an interesting story. The cover and the title was what interested me at first.
September 19, 2025
As a total fan of historical fiction, I was so hyped to dive into The Queen’s Necklace. But, oof, this book did not vibe with me. The start was dragging, taking forever to get to the good stuff. By the time the plot finally showed up, I was already low-key over it from slogging through endless wordy passages.
There were a couple of moments that gave me some life. A few chapters had me thinking this could’ve been the dramatic, juicy story I was craving. But the pacing was all over the place, and the whole thing left me more annoyed than obsessed. I wanted to be swept away into a world of shady court drama and rich historical tea, but instead, I was just checking how many pages were left, praying for it to pick up.
Hardcore fans of the era might still be into it, but for me? This book was giving tedious vibes, and I’m totally fine yeeting this royal saga into the past.
Big thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest take.
There were a couple of moments that gave me some life. A few chapters had me thinking this could’ve been the dramatic, juicy story I was craving. But the pacing was all over the place, and the whole thing left me more annoyed than obsessed. I wanted to be swept away into a world of shady court drama and rich historical tea, but instead, I was just checking how many pages were left, praying for it to pick up.
Hardcore fans of the era might still be into it, but for me? This book was giving tedious vibes, and I’m totally fine yeeting this royal saga into the past.
Big thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest take.
September 20, 2025
If you love historical fiction with rich characters and a story that pulls you in from the start, The Queen’s Necklace is a must-read. Adrienne Chinn has officially landed on my list of favorite authors. She weaves two timelines together so seamlessly that you can’t help but keep turning pages to see how the stories connect.
What really hooked me was the character growth. The main characters start off a bit unlikeable, but watching them transform into people you genuinely care about is so rewarding. And for history lovers, the touches of Anne Boleyn’s world are perfection—sprinkled in just enough to feel authentic without ever slowing the story.
This book has everything: mystery, history, character development, and that “just one more chapter” magic.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and NetGalley for the ARC.
What really hooked me was the character growth. The main characters start off a bit unlikeable, but watching them transform into people you genuinely care about is so rewarding. And for history lovers, the touches of Anne Boleyn’s world are perfection—sprinkled in just enough to feel authentic without ever slowing the story.
This book has everything: mystery, history, character development, and that “just one more chapter” magic.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and NetGalley for the ARC.
September 27, 2025
When I read what The Queen's Necklace was about, there was no way I wasn't reading it! The Tudor period is one of my favourite periods in history. The fact it was also a dual timeline just popped the cherry on the top.
We follow two sets of sisters, Mary and Anne Boleyn, from the Tudor period and Bryher and Marnie Finch in the present day. The Finch sisters are distantly related to the Boleyns, which adds a bit more to the tale, too.
The two timelines are woven together seamlessly. I have to say I expected nothing else from this author. Her character development is excellent, too. I started reading and grew to like the characters who were quite unlikeable at the beginning. Not just historical fiction but an intriguing mystery as well.
The vivid and rich details of the Tudor setting gave me all the feels. The authenticity transported me back in time so easily. I found this such a satisfying read. I just had to keep flipping the pages and promising myself one more chapter!!
We follow two sets of sisters, Mary and Anne Boleyn, from the Tudor period and Bryher and Marnie Finch in the present day. The Finch sisters are distantly related to the Boleyns, which adds a bit more to the tale, too.
The two timelines are woven together seamlessly. I have to say I expected nothing else from this author. Her character development is excellent, too. I started reading and grew to like the characters who were quite unlikeable at the beginning. Not just historical fiction but an intriguing mystery as well.
The vivid and rich details of the Tudor setting gave me all the feels. The authenticity transported me back in time so easily. I found this such a satisfying read. I just had to keep flipping the pages and promising myself one more chapter!!
September 20, 2025
Bryher Finch's life isn't just a disaster, it's a catastrophe, until a chance invitation to chart her family tree changes everything. As Bryher uncovers the ancestry she never knew about, she stumbles on the find of the century and Anne Boleyn's "B" necklace, and enigmatic as Henry VIII's most notorious Queen herself. But Bryher in not the only one who wants the necklace.
This story has a dual timeline - the past is set in the Tudor era and the present day. The characters are a mixed bunch of likeable and unlikable. The plot has been well-executed. I did think the story could have been a bit shorter, but I did enjoy the history behind the story.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HarperCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter and the author #AdrienneChinn for my ARC of #TheQueensNecklace in esxchange for an honest review.
This story has a dual timeline - the past is set in the Tudor era and the present day. The characters are a mixed bunch of likeable and unlikable. The plot has been well-executed. I did think the story could have been a bit shorter, but I did enjoy the history behind the story.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HarperCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter and the author #AdrienneChinn for my ARC of #TheQueensNecklace in esxchange for an honest review.
October 1, 2025
How iconic is that necklace?
I'm kinds obsessed with anything Tudor, especially when it comes to the infamy surrounding Henry VIII and his wives.
A good dual timeline story is always a win for me and this one had me glued to the pages.
I loved the concept behind The Queen's Necklace, with both sides of the story although centuries apart seamlessly joining together into this wonderful story steeped in history and ancestry...can you imagine discovering you had royal connotations?
It's a well written story and the author's research into the time period is evident.
Full of mystery and historical fact, I found it to be an enjoyable and engaging read.
I'm kinds obsessed with anything Tudor, especially when it comes to the infamy surrounding Henry VIII and his wives.
A good dual timeline story is always a win for me and this one had me glued to the pages.
I loved the concept behind The Queen's Necklace, with both sides of the story although centuries apart seamlessly joining together into this wonderful story steeped in history and ancestry...can you imagine discovering you had royal connotations?
It's a well written story and the author's research into the time period is evident.
Full of mystery and historical fact, I found it to be an enjoyable and engaging read.
October 12, 2025
Thank you for arc of The Queen's Necklace. I absolutely adore stories about Henry VIII wives and Anne Boleyn is an intriguing wife.
At first I found Bryer to be annoying, she really is like marmite you either love her or hate her. She's written like "I'm better than you" but gradually I actually warmed to her. I did guess earlier on that 2 of the characters couldn't be trusted but I enjoyed how it played out
I really enjoyed that the chapters went back in time to Anne and Mary.
I thought the story was well written and it was a enjoyable read. A different take on the story and I don't think I've read a story that was centred around the Boleyn neckalace.
At first I found Bryer to be annoying, she really is like marmite you either love her or hate her. She's written like "I'm better than you" but gradually I actually warmed to her. I did guess earlier on that 2 of the characters couldn't be trusted but I enjoyed how it played out
I really enjoyed that the chapters went back in time to Anne and Mary.
I thought the story was well written and it was a enjoyable read. A different take on the story and I don't think I've read a story that was centred around the Boleyn neckalace.
September 14, 2025
Bryher Finch’s Is a thoroughly unlikeable actress. Used to the finer things in life she’s married to fellow actor Jake. That is until a sex tape hits the media and her career and life are in free fall.
Coming to the rescue is Brit show ‘who do you think you are’. Where upon Bryher finds she’s distantly related to Anne Boleyn and has a cousin Betty in the uk.
The story is told between two timeline. Modern day and then too the Boleyn sisters. With the story centred around the iconic Boleyn necklace.
A good read. Fast paced with the odd baddie thrown in for good measure.
Coming to the rescue is Brit show ‘who do you think you are’. Where upon Bryher finds she’s distantly related to Anne Boleyn and has a cousin Betty in the uk.
The story is told between two timeline. Modern day and then too the Boleyn sisters. With the story centred around the iconic Boleyn necklace.
A good read. Fast paced with the odd baddie thrown in for good measure.
September 17, 2025
I received a free DRC of this book through Netgalley and the publisher. I have read a few other books by this author and enjoyed them. The book is a dual-timeline story between Bryher, an entitled Hollywood actress and Anne & Mary Boleyn in the 1500s. I thought both stories worked well although it's true that almost all of the characters are selfish, social climbers. I'm not sure how historically accurate all of it is, but it's good at showing the competition between siblings at different points in history. I did want a bit more of Marnie and Bryher's story timeline.
September 30, 2025
What a really good read!
Everyone has seen the portrait with the capital B on it.
I loved the 1500s timeline the best. Anne was such a cold cow! Mary was gullible and promiscuous but she was at least authentic.
I don’t care for Bryher at all. I thought she was selfish and arrogant and only cared about what the necklace and fake could do for her.
The real star of the book is Betty Pilcher who I felt terrible for but ultimately I had the a last laugh with her.
Thanks NetGalley and Harper Collins UK for the advance copy.
Everyone has seen the portrait with the capital B on it.
I loved the 1500s timeline the best. Anne was such a cold cow! Mary was gullible and promiscuous but she was at least authentic.
I don’t care for Bryher at all. I thought she was selfish and arrogant and only cared about what the necklace and fake could do for her.
The real star of the book is Betty Pilcher who I felt terrible for but ultimately I had the a last laugh with her.
Thanks NetGalley and Harper Collins UK for the advance copy.
January 6, 2026
The story revolves around an interesting premise - what happened to Ann Boleyn's "B" necklace? There are dual timelines featuring two sets of sisters; one set in the Tudor Court (Anne & Mary Boleyn), the other in the modern era (Bryher & Marnie). Almost all of the characters in the modern era are completely unlikable with little to no redeeming qualities. Cousin Betty & her cat Bijou are the only characters in that story line that weren't self-absorbed jerks. The Tudor timeline was much more interesting and - thankfully - Botox free.
August 9, 2025
This is a good and easy read. I really didn't like Bryher, she came across as selfish and I feel her character is too unbelieveable and I couldn't relate to her. She did grow on me the more I read though and I liked how her relationship with Betty changed as the book progressed. I absolutely loathed her Agent! The dual time line of past and present work ok although I enjoyed this more when the story is told through the Boleyn sisters. I lacked any sort of connection with Bryher and think her behaviour and actions are silly to say the least, over the top, childish and self serving. So, for me, the parts set in the past are much better and more enjoyable than the parts set in present day. I usually enjoy this authors books but The Queens Necklace fell a little short of the mark for me.
3 stars
3 stars
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