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The Boleyn Secret
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Expected 26 May 26The New York Times bestselling author of the Six Tudor Queens series explores the dramatic, mysterious life of Catherine Carey, niece of Anne Boleyn, in this surprising novel that delves into one of the deepest secrets of Henry VIII's court.
At twelve years old, Catherine Carey attends her aunt, Queen Anne Boleyn, to the scaffold. Horrified by what she witnesses, Kate is convinced that King Henry VIII is a murderer and has sent an innocent woman to a terrible death.
Although the Boleyn family, once so influential at Court, has now fallen from favor, Catherine still manages to secure a coveted role as lady-in-waiting to her now motherless cousin, the young Lady Elizabeth. Bound by Boleyn blood, the two girls grow as close as sisters, though Catherine has trouble ignoring the sly looks thrown her way and continual whispers behind her back. Only when her mother lies dying does Catherine learn the life-shattering truth that the Boleyns have been hiding for years.
It is a secret that follows Catherine throughout her life, as she flees religious persecution with her husband and lives abroad in fear, returning home only when Elizabeth becomes queen. But the bond between the Boleyn cousins will never be the same again…
With her usual entertaining and authoritative style beloved by readers, renowned historian Alison Weir exposes the dramatic, little-known Tudor mystery in this fascinating, revelatory novel.
At twelve years old, Catherine Carey attends her aunt, Queen Anne Boleyn, to the scaffold. Horrified by what she witnesses, Kate is convinced that King Henry VIII is a murderer and has sent an innocent woman to a terrible death.
Although the Boleyn family, once so influential at Court, has now fallen from favor, Catherine still manages to secure a coveted role as lady-in-waiting to her now motherless cousin, the young Lady Elizabeth. Bound by Boleyn blood, the two girls grow as close as sisters, though Catherine has trouble ignoring the sly looks thrown her way and continual whispers behind her back. Only when her mother lies dying does Catherine learn the life-shattering truth that the Boleyns have been hiding for years.
It is a secret that follows Catherine throughout her life, as she flees religious persecution with her husband and lives abroad in fear, returning home only when Elizabeth becomes queen. But the bond between the Boleyn cousins will never be the same again…
With her usual entertaining and authoritative style beloved by readers, renowned historian Alison Weir exposes the dramatic, little-known Tudor mystery in this fascinating, revelatory novel.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
560 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication May 26, 2026
8 people are currently reading
348 people want to read
About the author
Alison Weir
80 books8,416 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.
Alison Weir is an English writer of history books for the general public, mostly in the form of biographies about British kings and queens, and of historical fiction. Before becoming an author, Weir worked as a teacher of children with special needs. She received her formal training in history at teacher training college. She currently lives in Surrey, England, with her two children.
Alison Weir is an English writer of history books for the general public, mostly in the form of biographies about British kings and queens, and of historical fiction. Before becoming an author, Weir worked as a teacher of children with special needs. She received her formal training in history at teacher training college. She currently lives in Surrey, England, with her two children.
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January 26, 2026Tudor novels excite me. Especially ones set around Anne Boleyn. Katherine Carey is right at the heart of the Anne Boleyn’s execution which is traumatising for her as she was only a teenager.
Katherine then goes onto play a part in the fringes of the Tudor Court, through Henry’s next two wives, and the next three monarchy’s.
This is the first novel that I have read that has included Mary Tudor’s reign and I found this quite traumatic.
I guessed the secret straight away – the fact that Henry had liaisons with Anne Boleyn’s sister is quite a well-known Tudor fact so it could be that the her child could be Henry’s. Katherine is not granted access to the King’s thoughts, and once she made up her mind that Henry was a monster she repeated this ad nauseum until his death.
I found Kate to be a woman of her time. 12 Children and a husband who just seemed to like making babies and being at Court. Katherine has no real opinion of her own and whilst showing herself to be capable of running the manor she doesn’t really stand up for herself; or frame any view other than that of her her husband.
I think maybe the length of the novel and the time periods it skimmed over put me off. Maybe if it had spent more time in one period rather than Henry, Mary and Elizabeth’s rein I would have enjoyed it more. But for me it was to long and tom detailed with events that didn’t need the tine spent on it.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an advance copy in return for an honest review. This one is for hardcore Tudor lovers.
Katherine then goes onto play a part in the fringes of the Tudor Court, through Henry’s next two wives, and the next three monarchy’s.
This is the first novel that I have read that has included Mary Tudor’s reign and I found this quite traumatic.
I guessed the secret straight away – the fact that Henry had liaisons with Anne Boleyn’s sister is quite a well-known Tudor fact so it could be that the her child could be Henry’s. Katherine is not granted access to the King’s thoughts, and once she made up her mind that Henry was a monster she repeated this ad nauseum until his death.
I found Kate to be a woman of her time. 12 Children and a husband who just seemed to like making babies and being at Court. Katherine has no real opinion of her own and whilst showing herself to be capable of running the manor she doesn’t really stand up for herself; or frame any view other than that of her her husband.
I think maybe the length of the novel and the time periods it skimmed over put me off. Maybe if it had spent more time in one period rather than Henry, Mary and Elizabeth’s rein I would have enjoyed it more. But for me it was to long and tom detailed with events that didn’t need the tine spent on it.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an advance copy in return for an honest review. This one is for hardcore Tudor lovers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Alison Weir returns with a richly woven Tudor tale that feels both intimate and sweeping, offering a fresh vantage point on one of history’s most mythologised families. The Boleyn Secret follows Kate Carey—niece to Anne Boleyn and cousin to Elizabeth Tudor—whose life is shaped by the shadows of ambition, loyalty, and a truth buried deep within her family’s past.
From the opening pages, Weir captures the emotional shock of Anne Boleyn’s fall through the eyes of a twelve‑year‑old girl who witnesses far more than any child should. Kate’s horror, confusion, and fierce loyalty form the emotional spine of the novel, grounding the political tumult in something deeply human. As the Boleyns scatter and the court shifts its allegiances, Kate’s bond with the young Elizabeth becomes a tender, complicated thread—sisterly, competitive, and ultimately strained by choices neither girl fully understands.
Weir excels at exploring the private spaces behind public history. The whispers that follow Kate through court, the jealousies that simmer beneath Elizabeth’s brilliance, and the devastating revelation delivered on Mary Carey’s deathbed all combine to create a narrative that feels both historically resonant and emotionally gripping. The secret at the heart of the novel is handled with delicacy, shaping Kate’s life in ways that feel tragically inevitable.
What stands out most is the novel’s sense of atmosphere: the quiet dread of Tudor politics, the fragility of female survival, and the lingering ache of a family marked by both scandal and love. Weir’s meticulous research is present, but never heavy; instead, she allows her characters to breathe, to falter, and to shine in ways that make this story feel startlingly alive.
The Boleyn Secret is a captivating exploration of identity, loyalty, and the cost of truth. Fans of Weir’s Tudor novels will find much to love here, but so will readers drawn to stories of complicated women navigating impossible worlds. A beautifully crafted, emotionally resonant addition to the Tudor canon.
With thanks to Alison Weir, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC.
From the opening pages, Weir captures the emotional shock of Anne Boleyn’s fall through the eyes of a twelve‑year‑old girl who witnesses far more than any child should. Kate’s horror, confusion, and fierce loyalty form the emotional spine of the novel, grounding the political tumult in something deeply human. As the Boleyns scatter and the court shifts its allegiances, Kate’s bond with the young Elizabeth becomes a tender, complicated thread—sisterly, competitive, and ultimately strained by choices neither girl fully understands.
Weir excels at exploring the private spaces behind public history. The whispers that follow Kate through court, the jealousies that simmer beneath Elizabeth’s brilliance, and the devastating revelation delivered on Mary Carey’s deathbed all combine to create a narrative that feels both historically resonant and emotionally gripping. The secret at the heart of the novel is handled with delicacy, shaping Kate’s life in ways that feel tragically inevitable.
What stands out most is the novel’s sense of atmosphere: the quiet dread of Tudor politics, the fragility of female survival, and the lingering ache of a family marked by both scandal and love. Weir’s meticulous research is present, but never heavy; instead, she allows her characters to breathe, to falter, and to shine in ways that make this story feel startlingly alive.
The Boleyn Secret is a captivating exploration of identity, loyalty, and the cost of truth. Fans of Weir’s Tudor novels will find much to love here, but so will readers drawn to stories of complicated women navigating impossible worlds. A beautifully crafted, emotionally resonant addition to the Tudor canon.
With thanks to Alison Weir, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC.
January 25, 2026
At first, I was really interested in the story, but as the chapters went by I think it dragged on. There was a lot of repetition and I don't believe it needed to be so dragged out to 500 pages. The secret was also a let down? It makes barely any impact on the story. I understand that that is probably true to the nature of the real story, although I confess I don't know this much about history and the personal lives of past monarchs, but what brought me to keep reading after the secret was revealed was how it serves the narrative. I appreciate the amount of work and research that must have gone into this, but for me the repetition took me out of the story a lot, and I believe some parts weren't necessary. It reads like Kate's diary.
The writing is good, and the characters are interesting, but a little lackluster in my opinion. The mother I didn't care for, the father I wish I knew more about so that I could feel something about him and the whole situation, and Elizabeth... she's the most fleshed out character of all of them (including Kate) and I did appreciate seeing that, but I also didn't like her. Fair, maybe I'm not meant to. Kate's character felt a little all over the place. Going back to her parents and the backstory, I think it would have made a nice understanding of how/ why Kate is the way she is. She had no identity, no views, nothing, and is easily pushed by her husband. Except from the end where she had a litter of kids (again, going back to how it reads like a diary, I don't believe I needed to read about each of her children, which served nothing to the story, except to show that yes people had a lot of kids in that time.) I did, however, feel very sorry for Kate for being surrounded by selfish people. At first, I was disappointed in the ending, but I do think it suits the theme of the story.
However, I do appreciate the author writing about a person and part of history that isn't widely known (or at least, I didn't know!)
Thank you NetGalley for the arc.
The writing is good, and the characters are interesting, but a little lackluster in my opinion. The mother I didn't care for, the father I wish I knew more about so that I could feel something about him and the whole situation, and Elizabeth... she's the most fleshed out character of all of them (including Kate) and I did appreciate seeing that, but I also didn't like her. Fair, maybe I'm not meant to. Kate's character felt a little all over the place. Going back to her parents and the backstory, I think it would have made a nice understanding of how/ why Kate is the way she is. She had no identity, no views, nothing, and is easily pushed by her husband. Except from the end where she had a litter of kids (again, going back to how it reads like a diary, I don't believe I needed to read about each of her children, which served nothing to the story, except to show that yes people had a lot of kids in that time.) I did, however, feel very sorry for Kate for being surrounded by selfish people. At first, I was disappointed in the ending, but I do think it suits the theme of the story.
However, I do appreciate the author writing about a person and part of history that isn't widely known (or at least, I didn't know!)
Thank you NetGalley for the arc.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was an engaging and well researched retelling of a familiar Tudor period, made more interesting by its unusually wide chronological range. Going beyond Henry VIII’s death and into the reigns of his children was a real strength.
As you would expect from Alison Weir, the language feels authentic, with no distracting anachronisms. There are some familiar frustrations of the genre, particularly that much of the political action happens offstage and is relayed second hand rather than shown.
We do not know a great deal about Katherine Carey, just as we do not know much about her mother, Mary Boleyn. She must have been a remarkable woman to give birth to sixteen children and to hold such a place in the heart of one of England’s greatest monarchs, and Weir makes her a largely sympathetic character, if at times slightly naive.
Kate’s resentment at having to serve the Queen grated on me at first, especially given how close she had recently come to execution. That said, my view shifted toward the end of the novel, when her enforced separation from her family began to feel less like inconvenience and more like deliberate cruelty. It also raised an uncomfortable question about Elizabeth herself, suggesting that despite her reputation, she could be capable of emotional harshness reminiscent of her father.
One area I would have liked to see explored further was Elizabeth’s determination to remain unmarried. The novel hints at certain motivations, but given how much of this remains conjecture, it would have been interesting to see alternative interpretations considered or more clearly articulated.
The final section is slower and occasionally repetitive, but the ending is poignant and lingering, and ultimately shaped my overall impression. I have little doubt that Katherine Carey was Henry VIII’s daughter, and Weir’s musing that the Tudor line lived on through Katherine, when others believed it had died out, is thought provoking.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for an ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.
As you would expect from Alison Weir, the language feels authentic, with no distracting anachronisms. There are some familiar frustrations of the genre, particularly that much of the political action happens offstage and is relayed second hand rather than shown.
We do not know a great deal about Katherine Carey, just as we do not know much about her mother, Mary Boleyn. She must have been a remarkable woman to give birth to sixteen children and to hold such a place in the heart of one of England’s greatest monarchs, and Weir makes her a largely sympathetic character, if at times slightly naive.
Kate’s resentment at having to serve the Queen grated on me at first, especially given how close she had recently come to execution. That said, my view shifted toward the end of the novel, when her enforced separation from her family began to feel less like inconvenience and more like deliberate cruelty. It also raised an uncomfortable question about Elizabeth herself, suggesting that despite her reputation, she could be capable of emotional harshness reminiscent of her father.
One area I would have liked to see explored further was Elizabeth’s determination to remain unmarried. The novel hints at certain motivations, but given how much of this remains conjecture, it would have been interesting to see alternative interpretations considered or more clearly articulated.
The final section is slower and occasionally repetitive, but the ending is poignant and lingering, and ultimately shaped my overall impression. I have little doubt that Katherine Carey was Henry VIII’s daughter, and Weir’s musing that the Tudor line lived on through Katherine, when others believed it had died out, is thought provoking.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for an ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Boleyn Secret is the life story of a lesser known Boleyn: Katherine Carey, daughter of Mary Boleyn and cousin to Anne Boleyn.
The story follows the girl, Katherine Carey, as she grows into a young woman, becomes a mother, and then attendant to Queen Elizabeth. We experience the highs and lows of life, as she falls in love and marries her soul mate, Francis, and eventually becomes Lady Knollys.
But as Katherine gains status and respectability, as the monarchs change and religious winds shift, her family face persecution which causes them to flee into exile. And then when Elizabeth ascends to the throne and it is safe to return, Katherine finds her life is not her own in a whole new way.
I greatly enjoyed this book which is a satisfying, immersive read. The evocation of life at the Tudor court is skillfully done and one can only imagine the depth of research that has gone in to crafting this world.
The author’s notes explain little was known about Katherine’s life, and this book is blend of fact and fiction. Some creative licence is used to the benefit of the narrative, but it is never outrageously out of place. For example, in the story the young girl Katherine accompanies her aunt, Anne Boleyn, to the Tower of London and witnesses the disgraced queen’s beheading. Apparently, there is no evidence this happened, and yet the scenario is a plausible given their family relationship. Another example is that Katherine regularly visits her cousin, the infant Elizabeth, hence part of the reason for their close relationship.
As for the secret of the title, no spoilers so I won’t tell you what it is…but don’t expect any earth shattering revelation and it’s not hard to guess. However, I do wonder (and this is me being pedantic) if the book title is a slight misnomer, as it’s not really a ‘Boleyn’ secret (looking at it from Elizabeth’s perspective, as she has more at stake)…but you’ll have to read the book to see if you agree.
The story follows the girl, Katherine Carey, as she grows into a young woman, becomes a mother, and then attendant to Queen Elizabeth. We experience the highs and lows of life, as she falls in love and marries her soul mate, Francis, and eventually becomes Lady Knollys.
But as Katherine gains status and respectability, as the monarchs change and religious winds shift, her family face persecution which causes them to flee into exile. And then when Elizabeth ascends to the throne and it is safe to return, Katherine finds her life is not her own in a whole new way.
I greatly enjoyed this book which is a satisfying, immersive read. The evocation of life at the Tudor court is skillfully done and one can only imagine the depth of research that has gone in to crafting this world.
The author’s notes explain little was known about Katherine’s life, and this book is blend of fact and fiction. Some creative licence is used to the benefit of the narrative, but it is never outrageously out of place. For example, in the story the young girl Katherine accompanies her aunt, Anne Boleyn, to the Tower of London and witnesses the disgraced queen’s beheading. Apparently, there is no evidence this happened, and yet the scenario is a plausible given their family relationship. Another example is that Katherine regularly visits her cousin, the infant Elizabeth, hence part of the reason for their close relationship.
As for the secret of the title, no spoilers so I won’t tell you what it is…but don’t expect any earth shattering revelation and it’s not hard to guess. However, I do wonder (and this is me being pedantic) if the book title is a slight misnomer, as it’s not really a ‘Boleyn’ secret (looking at it from Elizabeth’s perspective, as she has more at stake)…but you’ll have to read the book to see if you agree.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an ecopy for a free and unbiased opinion.
I enjoy historical fiction especially from the point of view of the lesser-known men and women. The Boleyn Secret is the story of King Henry the Eighth’s turbulent reign and after from the point of view of Kate Carey, his niece by Anne Boleyn.
King Henry’s various wives and their fates are well known but this story from Kate’s point of view shows how horrific this man perhaps was to the woman in his court. Catherine or Kate is Anne Boleyn’s sister’s Mary who has a few books written from her point of view notably The Other Boleyn Girl.
The author acknowledges that she are many fictional elements to her story in her afterword but gives her evidence as well as to the Secret about Kate that the Boleyn family have been hiding. Kate finds herself in her cousin’s court including when Elizabeth is a Princess, then demoted to a lady and then when she becomes Queen.
The book is interesting and while filled with facts is never boring- I had no idea that rich protestants fled the country during Queen Mary’s reign and there were plots to bring them back. The Queens’s court filled with powerful women for the first time is also intriguing. The Queen Elizabeth in this book is an imperious mix of strength, selfishness and cynical pragmatism. Kate’s marriage to Francis Knollys is a significant part of the book and the love between them is heartwarming given the times.
Anyone who loves historical fiction will enjoy Kate Carey’s story and her place in history.
I enjoy historical fiction especially from the point of view of the lesser-known men and women. The Boleyn Secret is the story of King Henry the Eighth’s turbulent reign and after from the point of view of Kate Carey, his niece by Anne Boleyn.
King Henry’s various wives and their fates are well known but this story from Kate’s point of view shows how horrific this man perhaps was to the woman in his court. Catherine or Kate is Anne Boleyn’s sister’s Mary who has a few books written from her point of view notably The Other Boleyn Girl.
The author acknowledges that she are many fictional elements to her story in her afterword but gives her evidence as well as to the Secret about Kate that the Boleyn family have been hiding. Kate finds herself in her cousin’s court including when Elizabeth is a Princess, then demoted to a lady and then when she becomes Queen.
The book is interesting and while filled with facts is never boring- I had no idea that rich protestants fled the country during Queen Mary’s reign and there were plots to bring them back. The Queens’s court filled with powerful women for the first time is also intriguing. The Queen Elizabeth in this book is an imperious mix of strength, selfishness and cynical pragmatism. Kate’s marriage to Francis Knollys is a significant part of the book and the love between them is heartwarming given the times.
Anyone who loves historical fiction will enjoy Kate Carey’s story and her place in history.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Tudors seem to be the stars of an inexhaustible supply of historical novels and Catherine Carey offers particularly interesting possibilities. She was the daughter of Mary Boleyn, sister of Anne and one time mistress of Henry VIII, and rumours have always abounded that Catherine was the illegitimate daughter of the King. The novel follows her from her place beside Anne Boleyn at her execution, through her time as a companion for the young Elizabeth and at court, and through her own marriage and large family with Francis Knollys as they try to navigate the religious wars of the 16th century.
Alison Weir makes it very clear which parts of the novel are based on her always in-depth research and which parts are invented (although she also gives good explanations for why these may be plausible) and the result is an excellent portrayal of life for those within the royal court. She does a superb job of showing how stifling life could be for those who are favoured and the threat for those who are not, what little choice there was for those close to the centre and the impact this had on their own lives. The danger for both Catholics and Protestants under different monarchs is especially well handled.
It’s not easy to find anything original to say about such a well covered period but I really enjoyed this book, particularly its balance of history and imagination, and its excellent sense of time and place.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advance copy in return for an honest review.
Alison Weir makes it very clear which parts of the novel are based on her always in-depth research and which parts are invented (although she also gives good explanations for why these may be plausible) and the result is an excellent portrayal of life for those within the royal court. She does a superb job of showing how stifling life could be for those who are favoured and the threat for those who are not, what little choice there was for those close to the centre and the impact this had on their own lives. The danger for both Catholics and Protestants under different monarchs is especially well handled.
It’s not easy to find anything original to say about such a well covered period but I really enjoyed this book, particularly its balance of history and imagination, and its excellent sense of time and place.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advance copy in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Firstly I'd like to thank Alison Weir, NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC in exchange for my honest review!
This started out so strong for me, Kate was summoned to be by her Aunt's side during her stay in the tower and her subsequent execution. Anne Boleyn is shamed and Kate must be by her side.
It follows the love story and life of Kate and her husband, but for me, this book went on for far too long. I found the timeline jumped a lot, suddenly Kate had more kids that had been named and died, but we'd had no mention of them? I personally struggled to bond with the main character, aside from her love for her husband. Kate didn't have much substance and I found she was easily swayed and molded by the people around her.
The secret didn't change anything in the story, it felt very... hyped up and for nothing really.
One thing I can say for sure, is that Alison Weir does have a very good knack for writing around the Tudor period. Her knowledge of the time did lend itself well to the pages, the political strife around that time and the thoughts and feelings of English people during such a tumultuous time was refreshing.
Sadly for me, this felt very long and repetitive, so by about 50%, I was unfortunately having to drag myself through the book. However I do feel 3 stars is deserved because Weir has done her research and her writing is good, it just fell flat for me.
This started out so strong for me, Kate was summoned to be by her Aunt's side during her stay in the tower and her subsequent execution. Anne Boleyn is shamed and Kate must be by her side.
It follows the love story and life of Kate and her husband, but for me, this book went on for far too long. I found the timeline jumped a lot, suddenly Kate had more kids that had been named and died, but we'd had no mention of them? I personally struggled to bond with the main character, aside from her love for her husband. Kate didn't have much substance and I found she was easily swayed and molded by the people around her.
The secret didn't change anything in the story, it felt very... hyped up and for nothing really.
One thing I can say for sure, is that Alison Weir does have a very good knack for writing around the Tudor period. Her knowledge of the time did lend itself well to the pages, the political strife around that time and the thoughts and feelings of English people during such a tumultuous time was refreshing.
Sadly for me, this felt very long and repetitive, so by about 50%, I was unfortunately having to drag myself through the book. However I do feel 3 stars is deserved because Weir has done her research and her writing is good, it just fell flat for me.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
560 pages
5 stars
This is an absolutely wonderful novel. Brilliantly written with wonderful characters it is the story of Katherine “Kate” Carey. She was the niece of Anne Boleyn. Her mother was Mary Boleyn, Anne’s elder sister. We meet Kate at about age eleven when she was chosen to attend Anne during her incarceration in the Tower of London. She attends her trial for treason and subsequent execution.
Following Anne’s execution, she is sent to attend to Anne's three-year-old daughter Elizabeth. Throughout the years, they form a very close bond.
Ms. Weir writes Kate’ story based on verifiable historical facts, but imagines some of the dialogue and interludes between people and so on. It imagines Kate’s relationship with figures such as Kate's husband Francis Knollys, her children, her mother Mary and her stepfather Will, Henry VIII, the ladies at the court, Mary I, and Elizabeth I.
Kate’s story is remarkable.
I strongly recommend this book to anyone who loves a darn good historical novel. It is, of course, set in the time of Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. I cannot say enough about this novel, or Ms. Weir’s talent as a writer. I loved it.
I want to thank NetGalley and Ballantine - Ballantine Books for forwarding to me a copy of this wonderful book. The opinions expressed in this review are solely my own.
5 stars
This is an absolutely wonderful novel. Brilliantly written with wonderful characters it is the story of Katherine “Kate” Carey. She was the niece of Anne Boleyn. Her mother was Mary Boleyn, Anne’s elder sister. We meet Kate at about age eleven when she was chosen to attend Anne during her incarceration in the Tower of London. She attends her trial for treason and subsequent execution.
Following Anne’s execution, she is sent to attend to Anne's three-year-old daughter Elizabeth. Throughout the years, they form a very close bond.
Ms. Weir writes Kate’ story based on verifiable historical facts, but imagines some of the dialogue and interludes between people and so on. It imagines Kate’s relationship with figures such as Kate's husband Francis Knollys, her children, her mother Mary and her stepfather Will, Henry VIII, the ladies at the court, Mary I, and Elizabeth I.
Kate’s story is remarkable.
I strongly recommend this book to anyone who loves a darn good historical novel. It is, of course, set in the time of Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. I cannot say enough about this novel, or Ms. Weir’s talent as a writer. I loved it.
I want to thank NetGalley and Ballantine - Ballantine Books for forwarding to me a copy of this wonderful book. The opinions expressed in this review are solely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A new Alison Weir novel is to me what marchpane was to Queen Elizabeth I: delightful.
Our foremost female historian applies her expert knowledge and storytelling ability to bring to life a largely unknown Tudor: Kate, daughter of Mary Carey (nee Boleyn), sister of Anne.
Kate is a witness to the execution of her aunt, chosen at age 12 t9 be one of her handmaidens at the gallows. This hardens her hatred of Henry VIII.
Kate serves the young Lady Elizabeth, who is devoted to her.
At court rumours circulate about Kate and about her mother, who moved to France with her second husband William Stamford after censure for marrying a commoner.
Elizabeth is jealous when Kate marries and rarely mentions her husband Francis or the many children Kate will bear.
The rule of Mary drives ardent Protestants Kate and Francis to flee to Europe. They return once Elizabeth is on the throne. She welcomes them back with key roles at court, but rarely allows Kate to see either her husband or her children. The drama builds when her husband is sent to the north to guard Mary Queen of Scots. It's the last time Kate sees him, despite many entreaties to Elizabeth.
I won't reveal the Boleyn secret here. Tudorphiles will probably have guessed.
Another spellbinding book from Alison Weir.
Our foremost female historian applies her expert knowledge and storytelling ability to bring to life a largely unknown Tudor: Kate, daughter of Mary Carey (nee Boleyn), sister of Anne.
Kate is a witness to the execution of her aunt, chosen at age 12 t9 be one of her handmaidens at the gallows. This hardens her hatred of Henry VIII.
Kate serves the young Lady Elizabeth, who is devoted to her.
At court rumours circulate about Kate and about her mother, who moved to France with her second husband William Stamford after censure for marrying a commoner.
Elizabeth is jealous when Kate marries and rarely mentions her husband Francis or the many children Kate will bear.
The rule of Mary drives ardent Protestants Kate and Francis to flee to Europe. They return once Elizabeth is on the throne. She welcomes them back with key roles at court, but rarely allows Kate to see either her husband or her children. The drama builds when her husband is sent to the north to guard Mary Queen of Scots. It's the last time Kate sees him, despite many entreaties to Elizabeth.
I won't reveal the Boleyn secret here. Tudorphiles will probably have guessed.
Another spellbinding book from Alison Weir.
February 19, 2026
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again - no one can bring history to life like Alison Weir! Every new book of hers is an auto-read for me and even though they are pure chunks, I read every page with relish and they disappear into nothing in no time.
I’m still making my way through the six wives series but they’re all standalone enough to chop and change (which I do regularly)! This one I really enjoyed (as I have with all of her others) and the perspective of this one was so novel.
We’ve all heard about the beheading of Anne and Elizabeth’s stint as Queen but how would that have been experienced from the life of one so close to them both - and none closer than a niece and beloved cousin, Kate Carey. Her position through the courts changes as she gets older, and it was great seeing her progress and her life unfold through the pages. I think this honestly has to go down as one of my favourites of all time.
I’ve never met an Alison Weir book I didn’t like and this one is added to my long list of historical fiction favs.
TLDR; Alison weir. Favourite author. She takes you on a JOURNEY. I can’t find better!
Thank you to the author and publisher for this book on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and opinions.
I’m still making my way through the six wives series but they’re all standalone enough to chop and change (which I do regularly)! This one I really enjoyed (as I have with all of her others) and the perspective of this one was so novel.
We’ve all heard about the beheading of Anne and Elizabeth’s stint as Queen but how would that have been experienced from the life of one so close to them both - and none closer than a niece and beloved cousin, Kate Carey. Her position through the courts changes as she gets older, and it was great seeing her progress and her life unfold through the pages. I think this honestly has to go down as one of my favourites of all time.
I’ve never met an Alison Weir book I didn’t like and this one is added to my long list of historical fiction favs.
TLDR; Alison weir. Favourite author. She takes you on a JOURNEY. I can’t find better!
Thank you to the author and publisher for this book on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and opinions.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley. Ballantine and Alison Weir for sharing this ARC with me, in exchange for my honest review.
The Boleyn Secret is amazing. Alison Weir never ever disappoints. If it's written by Ms. Alison, I'm reading it. Before reading Ms. Alison's books, what I knew about King Henry VIII and his wives, was just what was taught in school and what I watched on PBS. The character development and world building is perfect. The pace is fabulous.
I was hooked from the very beginning til the very end. We learn about Katherine Carey, Mary Boleyn's daughter. From the time of her birth, the rumor was and still is, that Katherine is the illegitimate daughter of King Henry VIII.
If y'all love historical fiction, then y'all are going to love this book.
The Boleyn Secret is amazing. Alison Weir never ever disappoints. If it's written by Ms. Alison, I'm reading it. Before reading Ms. Alison's books, what I knew about King Henry VIII and his wives, was just what was taught in school and what I watched on PBS. The character development and world building is perfect. The pace is fabulous.
I was hooked from the very beginning til the very end. We learn about Katherine Carey, Mary Boleyn's daughter. From the time of her birth, the rumor was and still is, that Katherine is the illegitimate daughter of King Henry VIII.
If y'all love historical fiction, then y'all are going to love this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I flew through The Boleyn Secret. Alison Weir completely pulled me back into Tudor England and I didn’t want to leave. The atmosphere is so rich and tense, and the court intrigue had me constantly second-guessing who to trust. Even though Anne Boleyn is gone, her presence hangs over everything, which I loved.
This felt dramatic, emotional, and totally absorbing — the kind of historical fiction that makes you forget you’re reading and just live in the story. If you love Tudor drama, secrets, and powerful women, this one’s a must.
📚I was able to read an advanced copy of title thanks to NetGalley, Alison Weir and Headline📚
📚All reviews and opinions are entirely my own📚
This felt dramatic, emotional, and totally absorbing — the kind of historical fiction that makes you forget you’re reading and just live in the story. If you love Tudor drama, secrets, and powerful women, this one’s a must.
📚I was able to read an advanced copy of title thanks to NetGalley, Alison Weir and Headline📚
📚All reviews and opinions are entirely my own📚
January 25, 2026
This book follows the life of Katherine Carey (Kate) from the death of Anne Boleyn to her own death at 45.
Kate is interesting, she is on the periphery of events in the middle Tudor years. She doesn’t want to be at court and struggles juggling this with her family.
The chapters describing her family’s exile under MaryI were particularly interesting to me. Too often books about this time period concentrate on events at court but to see how these affected people was different, especially the risk of being captured and returned to be tried for heresy.
Thank you NetGalley and Headline for the ARC
Kate is interesting, she is on the periphery of events in the middle Tudor years. She doesn’t want to be at court and struggles juggling this with her family.
The chapters describing her family’s exile under MaryI were particularly interesting to me. Too often books about this time period concentrate on events at court but to see how these affected people was different, especially the risk of being captured and returned to be tried for heresy.
Thank you NetGalley and Headline for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I've read a lot of books about the Tudor period throughout the years so it's refreshing to find one which tells an alternative perspective, not from the viewpoint of one of the main characters (Henry, his wives or his legitimate children).
This story is about Catherine Carey, Anne Boleyn's niece and likely illegitimate daughter of Henry. It felt well researched and was very absorbing, it gave me a different understanding of the Tudor court.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in Tudor history.
This story is about Catherine Carey, Anne Boleyn's niece and likely illegitimate daughter of Henry. It felt well researched and was very absorbing, it gave me a different understanding of the Tudor court.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in Tudor history.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 stars
The Boleyn Secret by Alison Weir is an interesting and atmospheric look into the drama of the Tudor court. The political tension and constant sense of danger keep the story engaging, and the historical details make the setting feel vivid and authentic.
That said, the pacing can feel a bit slow at times, and some parts are heavier with detail than necessary. I enjoyed the intrigue and the emotional stakes, but it didn’t completely captivate me the whole way through. Overall, a solid historical read with plenty of drama and courtly secrets.
The Boleyn Secret by Alison Weir is an interesting and atmospheric look into the drama of the Tudor court. The political tension and constant sense of danger keep the story engaging, and the historical details make the setting feel vivid and authentic.
That said, the pacing can feel a bit slow at times, and some parts are heavier with detail than necessary. I enjoyed the intrigue and the emotional stakes, but it didn’t completely captivate me the whole way through. Overall, a solid historical read with plenty of drama and courtly secrets.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another great book from Alison Weir this was a novel version of the life of Catherine Carey the daughter of Mary Boleyn sister to Anne Boleyn once a mistress of Henry VIII
The source information is scarce but I loved the way that the author treated what is known and how she involved it into the story.
I am a big fan of Alison Weir so I have been anticipating reading this book and I loved it.
Thanks to Netgalley and Headline publishing for my arc copy
The source information is scarce but I loved the way that the author treated what is known and how she involved it into the story.
I am a big fan of Alison Weir so I have been anticipating reading this book and I loved it.
Thanks to Netgalley and Headline publishing for my arc copy
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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January 29, 2026I enjoyed this book. It's the story of Kate Carey, daughter of Anne Boleyn's sister. The character was a real person but obviously her story is imagined by the author, based on her research. I enjoyed finding out more about life in the court of Henry V111 and later Elizabeth I. However, I did find the book very long. 10 hours is a lot of concentration on the same story, though that's a personal opinion.
Thanks to NetGalley for a preview copy.
Thanks to NetGalley for a preview copy.
Currently reading
February 13, 2026I just started reading it and I can't wait! I am angry I need to go to work! LOL.
I am reading it for my YouTube Book Club Channel - Once Upon a Realm. Historical fact meets historical fiction. A whole NEW type of Booktube! Stop by for a visit!
I am reading it for my YouTube Book Club Channel - Once Upon a Realm. Historical fact meets historical fiction. A whole NEW type of Booktube! Stop by for a visit!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Fantastic! This is an intriguing and engaging mix of well researched detail and well developed fiction. Life in the Tudor courts is wonderfully expressed and the book is thoroughly engaging. Despite being quite a long book the journey through it flew by.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for this ARC. A must read book for any fans of Weir's writing and the fascinating world of Tudor England. An enjoyable read.
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