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Shadows of the Crown #8
My Lady of Cleves
Written by world-reknowned historical novelist Margaret Campbell Barnes, My Lady of Cleves gives readers an intimate portrait of the warm, unpretentious princess who never expected to become Queen of England. Knowing the king's ravenous desire for a son, and aware of the disastrous consequences of not bearing an heir, Anne of Cleves bravely took on the duty of weathering the Tudor King's temper, whims, arrogance, and irresponsible passions--and won the hearts of his subjects in the process.
A treat for readers of Tudor fiction and those fascinated by the complex relationships of Henry VIII and his wives, My Lady of Cleves leads readers into a world of high drama and courtly elegance.
A treat for readers of Tudor fiction and those fascinated by the complex relationships of Henry VIII and his wives, My Lady of Cleves leads readers into a world of high drama and courtly elegance.
352 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1946
88 people are currently reading
7196 people want to read
About the author
Margaret Campbell Barnes
35 books174 followersMargaret Campbell Wood was born on 17 February 1891 in Rotherfield, Sussex, England, UK. She was the youngest of ten children, who had a happy childhood in the Sussex country side. She was eventually educated at small private schools in Paris and London.
She married Peter Barnes in 1917,( a furniture salesman), and the couple had two sons, Michael and John. Michael, a Royal Armoured Corps Lieutenant, was killed during WW II.
She died on 1 April 1962 in Yarmouth, Isle of Wight.
Her books are historical novels, called Shadows of the Crown, that follow the history of the English Crown. The majority of her books were written between the 1940's and 1950's. Her last and posthumous novel Lady on the Coin was finished by the novelist Hebe Elsna
Over two million copies of Margaret's historical novels have been sold worldwide.
She married Peter Barnes in 1917,( a furniture salesman), and the couple had two sons, Michael and John. Michael, a Royal Armoured Corps Lieutenant, was killed during WW II.
She died on 1 April 1962 in Yarmouth, Isle of Wight.
Her books are historical novels, called Shadows of the Crown, that follow the history of the English Crown. The majority of her books were written between the 1940's and 1950's. Her last and posthumous novel Lady on the Coin was finished by the novelist Hebe Elsna
Over two million copies of Margaret's historical novels have been sold worldwide.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
July 20, 2017
Henry VIII’s marital woes and wives are still the talk of gossip over 500 years later. One can only imagine what he would say about that? Even with bawdy talk, the least-discussed wife seems to be #4: Anne of Cleves. Perhaps it is because Henry and Anne had an amicable divorce with her continuing to live happily in England after the fact as Henry’s ‘sister’ making her the lest dramatic of the wives. Possibly, it is because of her personal countenance and demeanor as the opposite of a troublemaker. Whatever it may be; Anne was still cut from a remarkable cloth. Margaret Campbell Barnes focuses on wife #4 in her historical fiction novel, “My Lady of Cleves”.
Generally, Barnes has the habitual behavior of beginning her novels rather slowly and not focusing on the main character at hand. Surprisingly, this is not the case with “My Lady of Cleves” as the novel immediately highlights Anne and jumps into the beginning of her marriage to King Henry. This, alongside the fact that “My Lady of Cleves” isn’t as fluffy as the HF novels lining many of today’s shelves (“My Lady of Cleves” was published in 1949); makes for valuable reading. “My Lady of Cleves” is a form of entertainment but still rich with history.
That being said, Barnes does take historical liberties with the story with some inaccuracies and with completely contrived plotlines such as the fictional romance between Anne and the court painter of the Tudors, Hans Holbein. Thus, some of the novel is simply “for fun” and not to be taken seriously.
The characterization of Anne in “My Lady of Cleves” is quite rich as Barnes gives her various layers and proper growth. Usually, Anne is portrayed very stereotypically and by-the-box with all authors making her seem one-way but Barnes instead gives her new personality traits which are believable and makes her come alive on an entirely different plane. “My Lady of Cleves” is certainly excellent in this way.
In fact, Barnes does well with developing all of the character figures in “My Lady of Cleves” and giving them all striking characteristics. This personification and articulate writing gives heightened depth to the story.
Typically, Barnes writing style is rife with grammar issues and with her annoyingly beginning sentences with ‘And’ and ‘But’. This is not the case with “My Lady of Cleves”. The writing language is solid, illustrative with the historical period, and written quite well. The grammar issues are still evident but not as abundantly as in the author’s other novels.
Noticeably, “My Lady of Cleves” doesn’t follow a standard story arc of ascending to a climax with a true crash and descent (unless you count the focus on Catherine Howard’s downfall). Even without this climb and the novel therefore being more straight-lined; the story is interesting and strong with its pace. Basically, it isn’t boring even with the absence of a true climax.
The final quarter of Barnes’s writing takes a large plunge being overly fictionalized, silly, and even nonsensical to the rest of the novel. It is almost as though Barnes came to an impasse and began to take absurd and arbitrary story paths. This has a slight negative impact on “My Lady of Cleves” and dampens the merits of the piece.
This artificial turn for the worst bleeds into the finality of “My Lady of Cleves” and therefore makes for a rather weak ending and let-down for the entire novel. Barnes was capable of much better and certainly dropped the ball.
“My Lady of Cleves” vehemently stands tall for focusing a story on perhaps the sleepiest of Henry VIII’s wives. Although Barnes writing and story composition are not without flaws (plus there is a blatantly poor ending); “My Lady of Cleves” is still an enjoyable read that is less fluffy than most similar-topic novels. The pages display illustrative nuances that does grab at the reader. “My Lady of Cleves” is overall a strong novel and suggested for lovers of all-things Tudor.
Generally, Barnes has the habitual behavior of beginning her novels rather slowly and not focusing on the main character at hand. Surprisingly, this is not the case with “My Lady of Cleves” as the novel immediately highlights Anne and jumps into the beginning of her marriage to King Henry. This, alongside the fact that “My Lady of Cleves” isn’t as fluffy as the HF novels lining many of today’s shelves (“My Lady of Cleves” was published in 1949); makes for valuable reading. “My Lady of Cleves” is a form of entertainment but still rich with history.
That being said, Barnes does take historical liberties with the story with some inaccuracies and with completely contrived plotlines such as the fictional romance between Anne and the court painter of the Tudors, Hans Holbein. Thus, some of the novel is simply “for fun” and not to be taken seriously.
The characterization of Anne in “My Lady of Cleves” is quite rich as Barnes gives her various layers and proper growth. Usually, Anne is portrayed very stereotypically and by-the-box with all authors making her seem one-way but Barnes instead gives her new personality traits which are believable and makes her come alive on an entirely different plane. “My Lady of Cleves” is certainly excellent in this way.
In fact, Barnes does well with developing all of the character figures in “My Lady of Cleves” and giving them all striking characteristics. This personification and articulate writing gives heightened depth to the story.
Typically, Barnes writing style is rife with grammar issues and with her annoyingly beginning sentences with ‘And’ and ‘But’. This is not the case with “My Lady of Cleves”. The writing language is solid, illustrative with the historical period, and written quite well. The grammar issues are still evident but not as abundantly as in the author’s other novels.
Noticeably, “My Lady of Cleves” doesn’t follow a standard story arc of ascending to a climax with a true crash and descent (unless you count the focus on Catherine Howard’s downfall). Even without this climb and the novel therefore being more straight-lined; the story is interesting and strong with its pace. Basically, it isn’t boring even with the absence of a true climax.
The final quarter of Barnes’s writing takes a large plunge being overly fictionalized, silly, and even nonsensical to the rest of the novel. It is almost as though Barnes came to an impasse and began to take absurd and arbitrary story paths. This has a slight negative impact on “My Lady of Cleves” and dampens the merits of the piece.
This artificial turn for the worst bleeds into the finality of “My Lady of Cleves” and therefore makes for a rather weak ending and let-down for the entire novel. Barnes was capable of much better and certainly dropped the ball.
“My Lady of Cleves” vehemently stands tall for focusing a story on perhaps the sleepiest of Henry VIII’s wives. Although Barnes writing and story composition are not without flaws (plus there is a blatantly poor ending); “My Lady of Cleves” is still an enjoyable read that is less fluffy than most similar-topic novels. The pages display illustrative nuances that does grab at the reader. “My Lady of Cleves” is overall a strong novel and suggested for lovers of all-things Tudor.
October 6, 2021
This was easy read and Anne was depicted as strong, with highly secure self-identity. And most of the characters and locale described within the various locations, pleasant to read. If you had never been entrenched in any works of Henry's life, or any of his wives, this one would have dipped your toe into that pond. But other than being a pleasant read, it's just TOO pleasant.
These characters, but especially Cromwell and Henry are conversing in a sometimes chiding, sometimes jovial type manner. And/or in company as if they were neighbors or committee members or trustees for a town council. I doubt very much that is how it was. It was far more a "one way" conversation and the tone was seldom, if ever, that light. Henry's dithers or moods or proclivities are just "off" in this book. This reads like historical fiction light and doesn't hold the depth of influences or core dangers of association to various hierarchy to resemble that time. It keeps your interest within Anne's reactions and diplomatic skills to circumvent Henry's rejection and stay alive and able to tread a future noble lifestyle. But other than that it is just too nice. This was a life or death serious situation, and not just for Anne. It's dated, and I would have appreciated some of the finer aspects of Anne's thoughts more, if I had known less about the real go-betweens and others in this scene.
These characters, but especially Cromwell and Henry are conversing in a sometimes chiding, sometimes jovial type manner. And/or in company as if they were neighbors or committee members or trustees for a town council. I doubt very much that is how it was. It was far more a "one way" conversation and the tone was seldom, if ever, that light. Henry's dithers or moods or proclivities are just "off" in this book. This reads like historical fiction light and doesn't hold the depth of influences or core dangers of association to various hierarchy to resemble that time. It keeps your interest within Anne's reactions and diplomatic skills to circumvent Henry's rejection and stay alive and able to tread a future noble lifestyle. But other than that it is just too nice. This was a life or death serious situation, and not just for Anne. It's dated, and I would have appreciated some of the finer aspects of Anne's thoughts more, if I had known less about the real go-betweens and others in this scene.
December 18, 2015
Although I imagined Anne de Cleves was someone I would like to read about, looking back now I think I was wrong. She probably was not controversial enough to merit a whole book. She made a good supporting character in other books I read and liked in the past. I ended abandoning Margaret Campbell Barnes's My Lady of Cleves in favor of more interesting reads many times. Just went back for a quick browse and can say that, although fairly well written, it was simply dull.
February 8, 2013
This is my second Margaret Campbell Barnes novel, i love her style of writing, although written years ago they are not dated, just well written.
Poor Anne came to England not knowing anyone or speaking the language, is called a Flanders mare and made a joke of for her dress sense, but in the end she manages become one of the most likeable of all Henry's wives. People gradually see that there is more to this woman than first meets the eye, they realise that Anne would have been the prefect wife for Henry if he could only have see past his own vanity.
After the divorce Anne lives a comfortable life and thrives, this shows through and makes her all the more attractive. She and Hans Holbein have had a mutual attraction from when he first met her when he was asked to paint her portrait for Henry, nothing ever comes of it, but it's there all the same....Anne comes to realise during one of Henry's visits that Hans has been having an affair with one of her ladies, and Henry shows no sign of wanting to go home to his young new wife...and Anne, who has no desire of ever being Henry's wife again just once wants him to find her attractive and not the 'Flanders mare' he once called her.
Anne of Cleaves is probably my favourite of all of Henry's wives and MCB does a great job in portraying her in a good light, as a woman who holds no malice to the man who discarded her but as one who thrives and grows into someone who people love and want to be around.
The only gripe I've got about the book is the ending, i would have liked it to continue on after Henry's death.
Poor Anne came to England not knowing anyone or speaking the language, is called a Flanders mare and made a joke of for her dress sense, but in the end she manages become one of the most likeable of all Henry's wives. People gradually see that there is more to this woman than first meets the eye, they realise that Anne would have been the prefect wife for Henry if he could only have see past his own vanity.
After the divorce Anne lives a comfortable life and thrives, this shows through and makes her all the more attractive. She and Hans Holbein have had a mutual attraction from when he first met her when he was asked to paint her portrait for Henry, nothing ever comes of it, but it's there all the same....Anne comes to realise during one of Henry's visits that Hans has been having an affair with one of her ladies, and Henry shows no sign of wanting to go home to his young new wife...and Anne, who has no desire of ever being Henry's wife again just once wants him to find her attractive and not the 'Flanders mare' he once called her.
Anne of Cleaves is probably my favourite of all of Henry's wives and MCB does a great job in portraying her in a good light, as a woman who holds no malice to the man who discarded her but as one who thrives and grows into someone who people love and want to be around.
The only gripe I've got about the book is the ending, i would have liked it to continue on after Henry's death.
February 1, 2009
My Lady of Cleves covers the life of Anne of Cleves from right before her marriage to Henry VIII until his death in 1547. The story opens with an agitated King Henry VIII, talking with his ministers about his need for a new wife after the death of his third wife, Jane Seymour in childbed. Among the candidates are the Duchess of Milan and the Cleves Princesses. The Duchess of Milan has already replied with “Only if I had two heads”! Smart girl!
Hans Holbein is sent to Cleves to paint both Anne and her sister, Amelia. Once there he becomes quite smitten with Anne and they begin a friendship. He paints a flattering picture of her because that is the way he sees her. Unfortunately, Henry does not see the same way and is almost instantly put off by Anne’s looks and hard mannerisms. Henry likes the petite type (go figure!).
We follow Anne through her short marriage to Henry, her annulment, “retirement” to Richmond Palace, Henry’s next marriage to Katherine Howard and her eventual downfall. Anne even plays a part in the infamous scene where Katherine is desperate to talk to Henry and goes screaming for him through the halls of the Palace. Anne seems to resign herself to her fate; after all she still has her head! She genuinely enjoys the life of a Princess of England; she can come and go as she pleases and has no husband or man to answer to. In seeing the freedom that Anne as a “woman” had, that had to have been a big impact on Elizabeth I, who always said she would never have a master.
My Lady of Cleves was an interesting look into a woman that survived marriage to Henry VIII. Anne is a very likeable, intelligent, straightforward woman and I think she would have made a wonderful Queen, had she been given the chance. It pulls on your heartstrings to know that she never had the children she wanted and never married. I wish the story was longer and covered the time during Mary’s rule as Queen - I would have liked to have heard Anne’s thoughts on “Bloody Mary”.
Note: Anne of Cleves died at Hever Castle on July 16, 1557. She lived 10 years past Henry. Her tomb is in a “hard to find place” in Westminster Abbey.
Overall: 4/5
Song: "Sweet Dreams" by Tori Amos
Hans Holbein is sent to Cleves to paint both Anne and her sister, Amelia. Once there he becomes quite smitten with Anne and they begin a friendship. He paints a flattering picture of her because that is the way he sees her. Unfortunately, Henry does not see the same way and is almost instantly put off by Anne’s looks and hard mannerisms. Henry likes the petite type (go figure!).
We follow Anne through her short marriage to Henry, her annulment, “retirement” to Richmond Palace, Henry’s next marriage to Katherine Howard and her eventual downfall. Anne even plays a part in the infamous scene where Katherine is desperate to talk to Henry and goes screaming for him through the halls of the Palace. Anne seems to resign herself to her fate; after all she still has her head! She genuinely enjoys the life of a Princess of England; she can come and go as she pleases and has no husband or man to answer to. In seeing the freedom that Anne as a “woman” had, that had to have been a big impact on Elizabeth I, who always said she would never have a master.
My Lady of Cleves was an interesting look into a woman that survived marriage to Henry VIII. Anne is a very likeable, intelligent, straightforward woman and I think she would have made a wonderful Queen, had she been given the chance. It pulls on your heartstrings to know that she never had the children she wanted and never married. I wish the story was longer and covered the time during Mary’s rule as Queen - I would have liked to have heard Anne’s thoughts on “Bloody Mary”.
Note: Anne of Cleves died at Hever Castle on July 16, 1557. She lived 10 years past Henry. Her tomb is in a “hard to find place” in Westminster Abbey.
Overall: 4/5
Song: "Sweet Dreams" by Tori Amos
April 30, 2009
Fifty years before Philippa Gregory set out to rescue the reputation of Henry VIII’s fourth wife, Anne of Cleves, Margaret Campbell Barnes did the same thing with My Lady of Cleves. I enjoyed Gregory’s Boleyn Inheritance as a sort of literary equivalent of cheesy puffs – bad for you, but sometimes trash is what you crave - but I liked My Lady of Cleves much more.
However, I should put in a couple of caveats: First of all, Barnes invents an unconsummated romance between Anne and the painter Hans Holbein, whose miniature of her is what caused Henry VIII to choose her as his bride in the first place. I suppose this explains as well as anything why Anne ended up being so much less to Henry’s taste than her portrait was. Secondly, Barnes’s Anne is a bit too saintly and well-beloved by every single person she ever encounters (except, of course, she’s not loved by Henry until it’s too late) and that gets a bit irritating! Lastly, since Anne is only on the central stage for about six months, the narrative gets a wee bit repetitive from time to time, and if I weren’t already aware of who the players are, I think I might have gotten a bit confused about all the characters who were doing and saying things offstage.
However, I did really like the book. Anne is a very likeable person, despite her being a bit too good to be true, and I particularly enjoyed Barnes’s portrait of Henry VIII who is not the one-dimensional monster of Philippa Gregory’s imaginings, but instead a more complex figure whose weaknesses cause him to do monstrously cruel things. And I truly enjoyed many of the more minor characters, who were extremely vivid and well-drawn. I came away from this novel feeling that Anne of Cleves had fared the best of all of Henry’s wives (and perhaps served as a model for his daughter Elizabeth about the power an unmarried woman might enjoy?) and feeling desperately sorry for poor Katherine Howard.
However, I should put in a couple of caveats: First of all, Barnes invents an unconsummated romance between Anne and the painter Hans Holbein, whose miniature of her is what caused Henry VIII to choose her as his bride in the first place. I suppose this explains as well as anything why Anne ended up being so much less to Henry’s taste than her portrait was. Secondly, Barnes’s Anne is a bit too saintly and well-beloved by every single person she ever encounters (except, of course, she’s not loved by Henry until it’s too late) and that gets a bit irritating! Lastly, since Anne is only on the central stage for about six months, the narrative gets a wee bit repetitive from time to time, and if I weren’t already aware of who the players are, I think I might have gotten a bit confused about all the characters who were doing and saying things offstage.
However, I did really like the book. Anne is a very likeable person, despite her being a bit too good to be true, and I particularly enjoyed Barnes’s portrait of Henry VIII who is not the one-dimensional monster of Philippa Gregory’s imaginings, but instead a more complex figure whose weaknesses cause him to do monstrously cruel things. And I truly enjoyed many of the more minor characters, who were extremely vivid and well-drawn. I came away from this novel feeling that Anne of Cleves had fared the best of all of Henry’s wives (and perhaps served as a model for his daughter Elizabeth about the power an unmarried woman might enjoy?) and feeling desperately sorry for poor Katherine Howard.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 24, 2020
This is yet another terrific work of historical fiction by this author. A great story about a woman who is often overshadowed by Henry's other wives.Full review you can find on my blog: https://poetryofreading.blogspot.com/...
February 3, 2018
I loved this book! I've read many books about the Tudors but don't think I've ever come across one before that is solely about Anne Of Cleves. As she wasn't Henry's wife for very long, she is normally lumped with Katherine Howard story. And although Katherine is in this book. The focus is firmly on Anne.
As I don't know a great factual detail about Anne, I wasn't sure how much was fiction mingled with fact. I have a feeling the love for Hans Holbein must have been purley there to give the story a romantic edge, as I've never come across this before in any other book about the Tudors, though Hans makes more sense than when I read in another fiction book, she was in a relationship with Katherine Howard!
Normally the author puts a note in at the end, telling us what was made up for entertainment value but there is no such note here. I will have to do some research!
This book kept me gripped and there were times I didn't want to put it down. A great story about a woman who is often overshadowed by Henry's other wives.
As I don't know a great factual detail about Anne, I wasn't sure how much was fiction mingled with fact. I have a feeling the love for Hans Holbein must have been purley there to give the story a romantic edge, as I've never come across this before in any other book about the Tudors, though Hans makes more sense than when I read in another fiction book, she was in a relationship with Katherine Howard!
Normally the author puts a note in at the end, telling us what was made up for entertainment value but there is no such note here. I will have to do some research!
This book kept me gripped and there were times I didn't want to put it down. A great story about a woman who is often overshadowed by Henry's other wives.
September 25, 2019
I actually have the different older styled cover on a mass market paperback version of the book which doesn't fit with the rest of the modern cover larger size paperbacks of her other books which I have. So now I've read and liked this, I'm buying this version to fit on my shelves better!
Anna lives with her family on their estate, the middle daughter, helping her brother to run things and doing everything she can to help the people of the area, making her very popular. Attention has mainly been on her prettier sisters so when Cromwell persuades Henry VIII to take a Cleves bride for political reasons, everyone expects Amelia to be chosen. Henry sends trusted Court painter Hans Holbein to do portaits of the sisters and an unexpected meeting with Anna convinces Hans that she would be the better choice than her vain giddy sister, and does a portrait designed to win her the prize. However, once in England, factions opposed to this political marriage are determined to put an end to it and Anna finds herself as a discarded and unwanted bride.
I loved the portrayal of Anne of Cleves in this book. She is presented as a happy and cheerful young woman, happy to help run the estate and look after the people. She is without vanity or ambition, aware that she lacks beauty and content at the prospect of a good marriage and children, and the chance to run her own estate if she has to leave her family behind. Being suddenly chosen to be Henry's next Queen is a bit of a shock and she is determined to rise to the challenge and be a good wife, mother and Queen. In spite of all the cruelty the Court inflicts on her, she faces it all with dignity and a smile, trying everything she can to change Henry's mind about her yet being sensible enough to accept when it is over and accept a good divorce deal. Without the stress of being married to Henry, Anne embraces her popularity at Court and her freedom, while lamenting the loss of being able to marry and have children. She is a good person and I felt sorry for her throughout the book.
Henry falls in love with the flattering portrait by Holbein and rushes to meet Anne when she arrives in England, taking her by surprise. This novel has the Duchess of Norfolk and Lady Rochford ensuring that Anne looks her very worst for the meeting with Henry which happens a day earlier than she expects. Being taken by surprise, Anne is flustered and forgets her charm and humour, not impressing Henry at all and he rages at Cromwell to get him out of the betrothal. Henry and those around him all find that they like Anne as a person but Henry is not attracted to her and wants to marry Katherine Howard instead so a divorce must be found. I found the various aspects of Henry's relationship with Anne interesting-the cold indifference, the grudging respect and the way he starts to see the great qualities that Holbein did but only after it was too late for things to work between them. I loved seeing these complex aspects written about in detail and I enjoyed all the twists and turns.
The other interesting aspect of the book is having Anne and Holbein feeling a shared attraction throughout the book but it is never able to progress beyond words due to circumstances. Anne shares her thoughts and fears with Holbein who tries to guide her through all the problems of Court, trying to translate for her and warn her about Court politics. He seems to really care for her and there is an opportunity for them to sleep together in Calais but it does not happen because Anne is on her way to marry Henry. They keep a close friendship and at times is the one bright spot in her life. But are they doomed to forever have circumstances keep them apart? I liked seeing more of the much loved Holbein who is often mentioned in Tudor novels but never takes a starring role. It was fun to have him as a main character for once.
I also enjoyed seeing the relationships that Anne cultivated with others at Court. Her discussions with Cranmer were interesting as he tries to advise her on winning Henry back from Katherine in order to save his friend Cromwell from execution, as well as ensure her own future. I liked the friendship that Anne has with Katherine despite the younger girl 'stealing' her husband. This book explores Anne knowing that Katherine is cheating on Henry with Thomas Culpepper and finding herself getting involved in the deception. This was another interesting plot choice and I enjoyed seeing how it all developed. Thomas confides in Anne who is alarmed at what will happen if Henry finds out and feels sympathy for the young lovers unable to be together because of the ambition of the Duke of Norfolk. Anne is a character that others feel comfortable confiding in so there are lots of interesting conversations.
The book also covers the relationships that Anne has with Henry's children and the realisation that with the terms of the divorce, she will never have her own kids. Being close to the Catholic Mary is a challenge because of religious differences but Anne has real empathy for everything Mary has suffered. Her relationship with Elizabeth is also close, trying to be a substitute mother to the young girl.
When I was first told about the Tudor books written by authors in the forties and fifties, I figured they would be dull and over-descriptive. However, instead I found that both Jean Plaidy and Margaret Campbell Barnes are great at writing characters you care about and really making the reader feel that they are there at the Tudor Court. Barnes takes the lesser known characters from the Tudor world and brings them to the fore, and gives a whole new look at the ones we know well. She really brings the Court to life. I've enjoyed all the books of hers that I've read and look forward to reading the rest.
Anna lives with her family on their estate, the middle daughter, helping her brother to run things and doing everything she can to help the people of the area, making her very popular. Attention has mainly been on her prettier sisters so when Cromwell persuades Henry VIII to take a Cleves bride for political reasons, everyone expects Amelia to be chosen. Henry sends trusted Court painter Hans Holbein to do portaits of the sisters and an unexpected meeting with Anna convinces Hans that she would be the better choice than her vain giddy sister, and does a portrait designed to win her the prize. However, once in England, factions opposed to this political marriage are determined to put an end to it and Anna finds herself as a discarded and unwanted bride.
I loved the portrayal of Anne of Cleves in this book. She is presented as a happy and cheerful young woman, happy to help run the estate and look after the people. She is without vanity or ambition, aware that she lacks beauty and content at the prospect of a good marriage and children, and the chance to run her own estate if she has to leave her family behind. Being suddenly chosen to be Henry's next Queen is a bit of a shock and she is determined to rise to the challenge and be a good wife, mother and Queen. In spite of all the cruelty the Court inflicts on her, she faces it all with dignity and a smile, trying everything she can to change Henry's mind about her yet being sensible enough to accept when it is over and accept a good divorce deal. Without the stress of being married to Henry, Anne embraces her popularity at Court and her freedom, while lamenting the loss of being able to marry and have children. She is a good person and I felt sorry for her throughout the book.
Henry falls in love with the flattering portrait by Holbein and rushes to meet Anne when she arrives in England, taking her by surprise. This novel has the Duchess of Norfolk and Lady Rochford ensuring that Anne looks her very worst for the meeting with Henry which happens a day earlier than she expects. Being taken by surprise, Anne is flustered and forgets her charm and humour, not impressing Henry at all and he rages at Cromwell to get him out of the betrothal. Henry and those around him all find that they like Anne as a person but Henry is not attracted to her and wants to marry Katherine Howard instead so a divorce must be found. I found the various aspects of Henry's relationship with Anne interesting-the cold indifference, the grudging respect and the way he starts to see the great qualities that Holbein did but only after it was too late for things to work between them. I loved seeing these complex aspects written about in detail and I enjoyed all the twists and turns.
The other interesting aspect of the book is having Anne and Holbein feeling a shared attraction throughout the book but it is never able to progress beyond words due to circumstances. Anne shares her thoughts and fears with Holbein who tries to guide her through all the problems of Court, trying to translate for her and warn her about Court politics. He seems to really care for her and there is an opportunity for them to sleep together in Calais but it does not happen because Anne is on her way to marry Henry. They keep a close friendship and at times is the one bright spot in her life. But are they doomed to forever have circumstances keep them apart? I liked seeing more of the much loved Holbein who is often mentioned in Tudor novels but never takes a starring role. It was fun to have him as a main character for once.
I also enjoyed seeing the relationships that Anne cultivated with others at Court. Her discussions with Cranmer were interesting as he tries to advise her on winning Henry back from Katherine in order to save his friend Cromwell from execution, as well as ensure her own future. I liked the friendship that Anne has with Katherine despite the younger girl 'stealing' her husband. This book explores Anne knowing that Katherine is cheating on Henry with Thomas Culpepper and finding herself getting involved in the deception. This was another interesting plot choice and I enjoyed seeing how it all developed. Thomas confides in Anne who is alarmed at what will happen if Henry finds out and feels sympathy for the young lovers unable to be together because of the ambition of the Duke of Norfolk. Anne is a character that others feel comfortable confiding in so there are lots of interesting conversations.
The book also covers the relationships that Anne has with Henry's children and the realisation that with the terms of the divorce, she will never have her own kids. Being close to the Catholic Mary is a challenge because of religious differences but Anne has real empathy for everything Mary has suffered. Her relationship with Elizabeth is also close, trying to be a substitute mother to the young girl.
When I was first told about the Tudor books written by authors in the forties and fifties, I figured they would be dull and over-descriptive. However, instead I found that both Jean Plaidy and Margaret Campbell Barnes are great at writing characters you care about and really making the reader feel that they are there at the Tudor Court. Barnes takes the lesser known characters from the Tudor world and brings them to the fore, and gives a whole new look at the ones we know well. She really brings the Court to life. I've enjoyed all the books of hers that I've read and look forward to reading the rest.
February 12, 2015
My Lady of Cleves tells the story of Henry VIII's fourth wife. Urged by his counsellors to marry again, Henry chose Anne after seeing a painting of her by Hans Holbein. However, their marriage was short-lived: Henry did not like her from the start, and divorced her after just six months. Unlike Katherine of Aragon, Anne accepted the divorce and lived peacefully the rest of her life in England, as “the King's beloved sister”. Despite her short reign Anne has always been one of my favourite wives (the third after Anne Boleyn and Catherine Parr), so I was very curious to read something about her.
Even if a little dated, My Lady of Cleves is a very solid book, especially because of its historical accuracy (with some liberties which work really well), and because of its likeable characters.
Anne is sensible, generous and hardworking. Sometimes she is too good to be true, but she also has very human faults, like her shyness and her gaucheness. Even if Henry's harsh rejection is painful for her, and always present in her life, she does not spend entire pages complaining about it. I found it easy to feel for her.
The other characters are equally well built. None of them (well, with a few exceptions) is completely bad: even those who are traditionally negative characters, like Thomas Seymour, have some redeeming qualities. Henry's portrayal is really quite intense and, over all, fair: he isn't overly justified, but his best side is shown as well. I also really liked Mary and Elizabeth, and their relationship with Anne.
The most peculiar aspect of the book is Anne's love story with Hans Holbein. It was not overly featured, so that it did not feel too unrealistic, but it also made sense. They were quite well suited and Hans's feelings for Anne explained cleverly the contrast between his rather lovely painting of her and Henry's immense dislike for the woman.
All fans of Tudor fiction should appreciate My Lady of Cleves. If you like Anne, her portrayal in The Boleyn Inheritance is also quite successful (I know Gregory isn't big on historical accuracy, but it was her novel that got me interested in Anne for the first time).
Even if a little dated, My Lady of Cleves is a very solid book, especially because of its historical accuracy (with some liberties which work really well), and because of its likeable characters.
Anne is sensible, generous and hardworking. Sometimes she is too good to be true, but she also has very human faults, like her shyness and her gaucheness. Even if Henry's harsh rejection is painful for her, and always present in her life, she does not spend entire pages complaining about it. I found it easy to feel for her.
The other characters are equally well built. None of them (well, with a few exceptions) is completely bad: even those who are traditionally negative characters, like Thomas Seymour, have some redeeming qualities. Henry's portrayal is really quite intense and, over all, fair: he isn't overly justified, but his best side is shown as well. I also really liked Mary and Elizabeth, and their relationship with Anne.
The most peculiar aspect of the book is Anne's love story with Hans Holbein. It was not overly featured, so that it did not feel too unrealistic, but it also made sense. They were quite well suited and Hans's feelings for Anne explained cleverly the contrast between his rather lovely painting of her and Henry's immense dislike for the woman.
All fans of Tudor fiction should appreciate My Lady of Cleves. If you like Anne, her portrayal in The Boleyn Inheritance is also quite successful (I know Gregory isn't big on historical accuracy, but it was her novel that got me interested in Anne for the first time).
July 12, 2011
I was completely amazed by this book. The richness that Barnes put into the characters was spellbinding!
Anne of Cleves takes center stage in this story, chronicling the last few months of her life in her home country, her brief time as Queen of England, and finally ending with the death of Henry VIII. I was drawn in almost from the start, coming to like Anne almost immediately. Here's a sensible, practical woman thrown into an extraordinary, dangerous situation -- being married off to one of the most changeable monarchs of the day, Henry VIII. Anne enters the marriage in good faith, but finds herself battered from all sides, especially by power-hungry, scheming courtiers. Nonetheless, Anne prevails, surviving her brief marriage with the cantankerous king and his debauched court, but also retaining a place within the Tudor family as the king's adopted sister and a surrogate aunt to his children.
I love how compelling Anne was in this book. This is a tried and true woman, who feels things deeply, from her love for Hans Holbein and the king's three children, to the anger that she feels for Henry's callousness toward her both during and sometimes even after their marriage. I also loved the relationships she builds with the other characters -- the Duke of Suffolk and Archbishop Cranmer also become confidants to Anne, and sometimes even vice versa.
I also love how it comes to the point near the end of the story that Henry seems to realize, even if he doesn't admit it out loud, that he was a fool to not see Anne's true worth when they were still married, and a double fool to throw her away.
An outstanding, brilliant story that brings the perhaps least-remembered of the wives of Henry VIII to vibrant life.
Anne of Cleves takes center stage in this story, chronicling the last few months of her life in her home country, her brief time as Queen of England, and finally ending with the death of Henry VIII. I was drawn in almost from the start, coming to like Anne almost immediately. Here's a sensible, practical woman thrown into an extraordinary, dangerous situation -- being married off to one of the most changeable monarchs of the day, Henry VIII. Anne enters the marriage in good faith, but finds herself battered from all sides, especially by power-hungry, scheming courtiers. Nonetheless, Anne prevails, surviving her brief marriage with the cantankerous king and his debauched court, but also retaining a place within the Tudor family as the king's adopted sister and a surrogate aunt to his children.
I love how compelling Anne was in this book. This is a tried and true woman, who feels things deeply, from her love for Hans Holbein and the king's three children, to the anger that she feels for Henry's callousness toward her both during and sometimes even after their marriage. I also loved the relationships she builds with the other characters -- the Duke of Suffolk and Archbishop Cranmer also become confidants to Anne, and sometimes even vice versa.
I also love how it comes to the point near the end of the story that Henry seems to realize, even if he doesn't admit it out loud, that he was a fool to not see Anne's true worth when they were still married, and a double fool to throw her away.
An outstanding, brilliant story that brings the perhaps least-remembered of the wives of Henry VIII to vibrant life.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2018
In a way, I felt guilty about giving this book 2 stars. After all, the author was born in the late 1800s. It’s almost like stomping on her grave. And maybe some of the sentences, i.e. “One of my uncle the Duke’s gentlemen retainers.” were just editing errors. “Some instinct must have warned me of the danger ran” is probably the fault of the editor, right? But to be fair, Dickens was also born in late 1800s. So, in view of equality, I gave this book 2 stars.
I just could not believe that Anne was so perfect. Or that she always seemed to show up at very crucial historical events like a fly on the wall. Also, is there any proof that she consummated her marriage to Henry while he was married to Catherine Howard? And the entire love story with Hans Holbein? I just didn’t buy it.
So, for those reasons (grave stomping and all), 2 stars. Maybe Hilary Mantel has just totally spoiled me...
I just could not believe that Anne was so perfect. Or that she always seemed to show up at very crucial historical events like a fly on the wall. Also, is there any proof that she consummated her marriage to Henry while he was married to Catherine Howard? And the entire love story with Hans Holbein? I just didn’t buy it.
So, for those reasons (grave stomping and all), 2 stars. Maybe Hilary Mantel has just totally spoiled me...
June 1, 2016
This is the kind of book I love to read. I was definitely very comfortable reading about this period of history because I have read so much about the Tudor's. I was quite pleased to read a book about Anne of Cleaves because I had not seen a lot about her. I also liked her the best of Henry's wives because she was smart and lived to tell the tale. Very good book.
May 1, 2016
Thoroughly enjoyed this novel of Anne of Cleves, Henry VIII's 4th wife. Didn't know much about her and in this telling of her story, I really liked her and felt she was the ultimate victor of all the wives. I'd like to read a non-fiction work on her.
August 26, 2017
Dutch translation of 'My Lady of Cleves'. Enjoyable read about my favourite of Henry's six wives, even though I suppose loads of it is made up. Recommended for lovers of Tudor fiction.
September 30, 2022
I'm having a bit of a Tudor dive at the moment, seeking out novels I've not read in the period. So far, three or four chapters in, this is awful. Compared to something like Mantel's Wolf Hall trilogy, this is first grade Janet and John level of writing. However, I've checked out some of the reviews, and a lot of people have said it gets better. I'll stick with it for a few more chapters and update when done...
I bailed on this one last night. There's only so much a reader can take. Basically, this is fan fiction. And that's not necessarily a criticism, as I've actually read some excellent fanfic (written some too, if I do say so myself). But this is the cringe kind, the sort of story where something utterly impossible is presented purely because it forces the author's narrative. An example: Anne and Hans Holbein secret lovers, so the miniature painting of her is a result of him painting her soul... huh?
Anne of Cleves is a fascinating historical figure, only of course through her connection with Henry VIII. Contrary to her fourth position in this famous rhyme divorced; beheaded; died; divorced; beheaded; survived Anne of Cleves wasn't divorced from Henry; their un-consummated marriage was annulled and she became his official 'sister'. And she was really the only one who survived him, because Katherine Parr (final wife) outlived him, which is entirely different. If Henry had lived longer, it's very possible Parr would have been for the chopping block, as she was a 'heretic' and very narrowly escaped Bishop Gardiner's purges as it was. So, Anne not only got away intact from Henry whilst he was still alive, she lived right through to see Elizabeth crowned. She's my favourite of all his wives and I always cheer a bit when she comes on the scene and disappoints Henry VIII. I love that she got to live out her life as an independent woman too. That didn't exist in Tudor England as a rule.
So, given all that, quite how any book solely about Anne could be so dire defeats me. The fanfic twisting of events is bad enough, but the writing just is awful. The pov literally switches in the same sentence so we're left reading something like this: Anne knew Culpepper was watching his love, Katherine, as he glanced jealously toward Henry, but Tom couldn't help the fury swelling within him and his heart surged in his chest with the agony of seeing her sweet face.
This was a definite dnf.
I bailed on this one last night. There's only so much a reader can take. Basically, this is fan fiction. And that's not necessarily a criticism, as I've actually read some excellent fanfic (written some too, if I do say so myself). But this is the cringe kind, the sort of story where something utterly impossible is presented purely because it forces the author's narrative. An example: Anne and Hans Holbein secret lovers, so the miniature painting of her is a result of him painting her soul... huh?
Anne of Cleves is a fascinating historical figure, only of course through her connection with Henry VIII. Contrary to her fourth position in this famous rhyme divorced; beheaded; died; divorced; beheaded; survived Anne of Cleves wasn't divorced from Henry; their un-consummated marriage was annulled and she became his official 'sister'. And she was really the only one who survived him, because Katherine Parr (final wife) outlived him, which is entirely different. If Henry had lived longer, it's very possible Parr would have been for the chopping block, as she was a 'heretic' and very narrowly escaped Bishop Gardiner's purges as it was. So, Anne not only got away intact from Henry whilst he was still alive, she lived right through to see Elizabeth crowned. She's my favourite of all his wives and I always cheer a bit when she comes on the scene and disappoints Henry VIII. I love that she got to live out her life as an independent woman too. That didn't exist in Tudor England as a rule.
So, given all that, quite how any book solely about Anne could be so dire defeats me. The fanfic twisting of events is bad enough, but the writing just is awful. The pov literally switches in the same sentence so we're left reading something like this: Anne knew Culpepper was watching his love, Katherine, as he glanced jealously toward Henry, but Tom couldn't help the fury swelling within him and his heart surged in his chest with the agony of seeing her sweet face.
This was a definite dnf.
March 18, 2014
I like to think that, at this stage, I have built up a fairly strong base knowledge concerning historical fiction. I have read a lot. Nevertheless, as with all reading in this genre I always consult one forum alone after completion of my newest find; my Mom. She's read ten times more than I have and there's not a historical fiction novel I can name she hasn't partaken in at one point or another. And she very much helped me to clarify my thoughts on this book.
It's dated. Badly.
I'll leave comparisons to the end because it's unfair to immediately throw in other author's names. But suffice to say I found a lot of problems here. If it were not a novel about the relatively unwritten about Anne of Cleves it would have been two stars. However I enjoyed the chance to finally read from the perspective of the jilted Flemish Princess. She's a character I've been interested in for some time, always searching for small details about her. Not least because her marriage was the ultimate downfall of my favourite historical personage - Thomas Cromwell.
Campbell Barnes does a fair job of attempting to capture the confusion and fear running like a vein through Anne's marriage. However her portrayal of Anne, I think, is overly flattering. As is her depiction of a whole host of characters. In contrast to that her thoughts on characters such as Cromwell and Wriothsley were wholly negative. Therefore there is very little moral grey to her characterisation, which I think is so important in a novel about the Tudor court. Everyone played along a blurred line there, no one announced their loyalty to anyone but the King. Yet the moral compass of characters here is more fitting for a fairytale than an attempt at reliving reality.
I also thought a lot of the flow was lost as, with each changing chapter, time jumps differed hugely. A month passes, a year. Huge chunks of married life are missed out. In my case one of the things I was most looking forward to was interactions with Anne and Henry, both during their marriage and after it. Instead I was accosted by a fictitious flirtation between Anne and Hans Holbein. I didn't mind this too much, romance sells and without that authorial interjection Campbell Barnes would have struggled with childless, divorced Anne. However I would have preferred less obviousness between Holbein and Anne - personally it struck me as a little forced.
Historical accuracy did many leaps from the window, departing completely from any semblance of reality. When I saw scenes reminiscent of the TV show The Tudors I had to smile. Perhaps Neil Jordan read this novel when writing about the marriage of Anne of Cleves? However in a world post The Other Boleyn Girl, I am well used to vast departures from historical accuracy and, whilst I sometimes wish the author had done just a little more research, I can largely accept it in a novel borne of fiction.
Saying all of this I did, to an extent, enjoy reading. It was a light read and, whilst it lacked the historical depth and sharp characterisation of Jean Plaidy (I told you name dropping was coming) I thought that, for the time it was written (1946) this is a well enough way to dip your toes into the Tudor world and experience it through she who was perhaps Henry's luckiest Queen.
It's dated. Badly.
I'll leave comparisons to the end because it's unfair to immediately throw in other author's names. But suffice to say I found a lot of problems here. If it were not a novel about the relatively unwritten about Anne of Cleves it would have been two stars. However I enjoyed the chance to finally read from the perspective of the jilted Flemish Princess. She's a character I've been interested in for some time, always searching for small details about her. Not least because her marriage was the ultimate downfall of my favourite historical personage - Thomas Cromwell.
Campbell Barnes does a fair job of attempting to capture the confusion and fear running like a vein through Anne's marriage. However her portrayal of Anne, I think, is overly flattering. As is her depiction of a whole host of characters. In contrast to that her thoughts on characters such as Cromwell and Wriothsley were wholly negative. Therefore there is very little moral grey to her characterisation, which I think is so important in a novel about the Tudor court. Everyone played along a blurred line there, no one announced their loyalty to anyone but the King. Yet the moral compass of characters here is more fitting for a fairytale than an attempt at reliving reality.
I also thought a lot of the flow was lost as, with each changing chapter, time jumps differed hugely. A month passes, a year. Huge chunks of married life are missed out. In my case one of the things I was most looking forward to was interactions with Anne and Henry, both during their marriage and after it. Instead I was accosted by a fictitious flirtation between Anne and Hans Holbein. I didn't mind this too much, romance sells and without that authorial interjection Campbell Barnes would have struggled with childless, divorced Anne. However I would have preferred less obviousness between Holbein and Anne - personally it struck me as a little forced.
Historical accuracy did many leaps from the window, departing completely from any semblance of reality. When I saw scenes reminiscent of the TV show The Tudors I had to smile. Perhaps Neil Jordan read this novel when writing about the marriage of Anne of Cleves? However in a world post The Other Boleyn Girl, I am well used to vast departures from historical accuracy and, whilst I sometimes wish the author had done just a little more research, I can largely accept it in a novel borne of fiction.
Saying all of this I did, to an extent, enjoy reading. It was a light read and, whilst it lacked the historical depth and sharp characterisation of Jean Plaidy (I told you name dropping was coming) I thought that, for the time it was written (1946) this is a well enough way to dip your toes into the Tudor world and experience it through she who was perhaps Henry's luckiest Queen.
September 18, 2018
Margaret Campbell Barnes’ My Lady of Cleves is a novel about the often neglected fourth wife of Henry VIII, and really, the only one who managed a good life post-Henry. To be sure, Katherine Parr survived Henry, but came to a sad end not too long afterward, marrying Thomas Seymour, who would engage in a concerted attempt to seduce her step-daughter Elizabeth under her very nose, and leave her to due alone of post-partum fever. Anne of Cleves not only got out alive, but she remained on good terms with her difficult former husband, wrangled a decent financial settlement out of him, and had a comfortable and relatively long life. Without the passion, tragedy and death associated with most of his other queens, Anne’s story of life with Henry is often overlooked. But she’s one of my favourites, because she was a survivor.
Margaret Campbell Barnes gives us a picture of the Princessof Cleves that is both sympathetic and engaging. Her Anne is a woman who loves little things, is kind and generous, but knows herself to be too tall, large-boned and plain of face, much less attractive than her married older sister Sybille, or her younger, pretty Amelia. She is shocked when Hans Holbein paints her as an attractive woman, and surprised when Henry chooses her rather than Amelia to be his wife.
But on meeting her, Henry is not pleased - he calls her a Flemish mare - and though he goes through with the marriage, his eye is already in the pretty little Howard girl newly arrived Court, and his mind on how to get rid of Anne. Perhaps because she is, after all, a foreign princess, perhaps because she has become beloved of the people of London, perhaps because of her motherly care of his three motherless children, he offers her the option of a quite divorce on grounds of non-consummation, and in his guilt, makes a gift of the royal palace of Richmond and a suitable income to maintain it.
In Barnes’ story, Anne flowers after the divorce, finally free to live her life as she desires. She enjoys keeping Richmond House in good condition, managing her household, being a hostess to her neighbours and those who befriended her at fourt, and doing good deeds in the surrounding area. She is allowed to have Edward, Elizabeth and Mary visit her, and she tries to give them the nurturing that all have lacked. In Barnes’ novel, Anne and Hans Holbein develop a mutual attraction that is acknowledged but never consummated, giving Anne a chance to be a romantic of a sort, but never being impractical about it. The world-wise and cynical Holbein is a source of support and information for her, as he explains the secrets and plots at court that threaten her, marvelling at her ability to remain good-hearted and somehow innocent in the midst of political power plays and corruption. Barnes gives Anne the gift of making people feel comfortable with her - over time, people from Mary Tudor to Thomas Cranmer come to see her as a friend and confidante. The overall picture that emerges is of an intelligent, warm, generous woman who deserved a better life - a loving husband, children, a home - but who made the best of the hand she was dealt, and found ways to be happy and to give of herself to others despite being deprived of the things that might have fulfilled her most.
Margaret Campbell Barnes gives us a picture of the Princessof Cleves that is both sympathetic and engaging. Her Anne is a woman who loves little things, is kind and generous, but knows herself to be too tall, large-boned and plain of face, much less attractive than her married older sister Sybille, or her younger, pretty Amelia. She is shocked when Hans Holbein paints her as an attractive woman, and surprised when Henry chooses her rather than Amelia to be his wife.
But on meeting her, Henry is not pleased - he calls her a Flemish mare - and though he goes through with the marriage, his eye is already in the pretty little Howard girl newly arrived Court, and his mind on how to get rid of Anne. Perhaps because she is, after all, a foreign princess, perhaps because she has become beloved of the people of London, perhaps because of her motherly care of his three motherless children, he offers her the option of a quite divorce on grounds of non-consummation, and in his guilt, makes a gift of the royal palace of Richmond and a suitable income to maintain it.
In Barnes’ story, Anne flowers after the divorce, finally free to live her life as she desires. She enjoys keeping Richmond House in good condition, managing her household, being a hostess to her neighbours and those who befriended her at fourt, and doing good deeds in the surrounding area. She is allowed to have Edward, Elizabeth and Mary visit her, and she tries to give them the nurturing that all have lacked. In Barnes’ novel, Anne and Hans Holbein develop a mutual attraction that is acknowledged but never consummated, giving Anne a chance to be a romantic of a sort, but never being impractical about it. The world-wise and cynical Holbein is a source of support and information for her, as he explains the secrets and plots at court that threaten her, marvelling at her ability to remain good-hearted and somehow innocent in the midst of political power plays and corruption. Barnes gives Anne the gift of making people feel comfortable with her - over time, people from Mary Tudor to Thomas Cranmer come to see her as a friend and confidante. The overall picture that emerges is of an intelligent, warm, generous woman who deserved a better life - a loving husband, children, a home - but who made the best of the hand she was dealt, and found ways to be happy and to give of herself to others despite being deprived of the things that might have fulfilled her most.
March 16, 2011
I really liked how Anne of Cleves was portrayed in this book! and it proved to be a very enjoyable read. I had to get used to the writing style though, and it took a little longer to get into the book. It proved to be a very interesting read, and I really did like this book.
It’s hard not to sympathize with Anne. Practically alone in a country where English is a foreign language, and with different customs and clothing to get used to, I felt really sorry for her in the beginning of the book. When she becomes the target of ridicule, you sympathize with her even more and can’t help but feel angry towards Henry and his crew for being so mean. The biggest surprise in this book is her friendship with Thomas Culpepper. I didn’t think they’d get along, but I liked their friendship. Also, the Thomas in this book is much nicer than say, The Tudors version. This book painted Culpepper in a rather sympathetic light and it’s a whole different version of him than what I am used to, and I like this one much better.
What I enjoyed most about this book is how Anne gracefully became an outsider of the court, to a well beloved one. She gradually warmed characters’ hearts and the reader’s. She was seen as a person you could approach to, and talk to while she listened and gave good advice. In a way, you could say she would make a wonderful therapist. You could not help but love her up until the end. I especially liked how she managed to get Henry to come crawling back (so to speak). I thought Henry’s portrayal here was different, he’s still a tyrant, but he’s also seen as an old curmudgeon. Perhaps that’s what Margaret Campbell Barnes wanted in the first place.
The plot is certainly slow moving and although it’s not what you would call a very exciting type of book, I think it’s a book meant to be read and appreciated thoroughly and slowly. I believe this book was really meant to really look into Anne as a character and how she develops throughout the story. This book is really all about the characters. Would I recommend this? I would to Tudor history lovers out there. It helps to know the history and to know who’s who before getting into this book. Also keep in mind, the writing style is a bit different -I’d say similar to Jean Plaidy’s. So, it will take a bit to get used to, but it’s well worth the time.
This was one of the better Tudor books I’ve read, filled with great character development and most importantly, shows some of the characters in a very different light. I definitely recommend this. It was a great read, and reinforces my opinion as Anne of Cleves being one of my favorite Queens (even if she was Queen for a little while).
It’s hard not to sympathize with Anne. Practically alone in a country where English is a foreign language, and with different customs and clothing to get used to, I felt really sorry for her in the beginning of the book. When she becomes the target of ridicule, you sympathize with her even more and can’t help but feel angry towards Henry and his crew for being so mean. The biggest surprise in this book is her friendship with Thomas Culpepper. I didn’t think they’d get along, but I liked their friendship. Also, the Thomas in this book is much nicer than say, The Tudors version. This book painted Culpepper in a rather sympathetic light and it’s a whole different version of him than what I am used to, and I like this one much better.
What I enjoyed most about this book is how Anne gracefully became an outsider of the court, to a well beloved one. She gradually warmed characters’ hearts and the reader’s. She was seen as a person you could approach to, and talk to while she listened and gave good advice. In a way, you could say she would make a wonderful therapist. You could not help but love her up until the end. I especially liked how she managed to get Henry to come crawling back (so to speak). I thought Henry’s portrayal here was different, he’s still a tyrant, but he’s also seen as an old curmudgeon. Perhaps that’s what Margaret Campbell Barnes wanted in the first place.
The plot is certainly slow moving and although it’s not what you would call a very exciting type of book, I think it’s a book meant to be read and appreciated thoroughly and slowly. I believe this book was really meant to really look into Anne as a character and how she develops throughout the story. This book is really all about the characters. Would I recommend this? I would to Tudor history lovers out there. It helps to know the history and to know who’s who before getting into this book. Also keep in mind, the writing style is a bit different -I’d say similar to Jean Plaidy’s. So, it will take a bit to get used to, but it’s well worth the time.
This was one of the better Tudor books I’ve read, filled with great character development and most importantly, shows some of the characters in a very different light. I definitely recommend this. It was a great read, and reinforces my opinion as Anne of Cleves being one of my favorite Queens (even if she was Queen for a little while).
January 3, 2015
Written in the 1940s and re-released in the 2000s, this is one of the few novelizations of my favorite of the Tudor wives, Anne of Cleves---the one whom Henry VIII married based on a 2-inch miniature painting and then spent their brief marriage trying to figure out how to put her aside, eventually annulling the marriage based on the (false) basis of Anne's being pre-contracted.
While the style of writing does age the book, that wasn't the biggest reason I couldn't give it five stars. It paints a very rosy portrait (rosier than my fangirling has ever done) of Henry VIII's fourth wife---in Barnes's view, everyone loved Anne, confided in Anne, wished Anne were still queen, from the lowliest commoner to Thomas Cranmer, Charles Brandon, and, on occasion, even Henry himself.
However, it's still an enjoyable read and an interesting take on such an enigmatic historical figure.
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I think the original manuscript of the novel was either scanned in or retyped and then not edited as carefully as it could have been. There were several places in which words seemed misused or out of place (such as firelight being "rejected in her eyes" rather than reflected). Also, I'm not sure if the lack of commas, which leads to confusion in complex sentences quite often, was how the original publication was edited or if it's how the book was originally punctuated. EDIT: In researching this further, it looks like the family might have "self" pubbed this reprint, since the imprint is through Sourcebooks, so I imagine it was retyped (lovingly, I'm certain) for this re-release. However, they should have hired a professional editor to both proofread it and update/correct the lack of punctuation to make the prose itself easier to read/comprehend.
While the style of writing does age the book, that wasn't the biggest reason I couldn't give it five stars. It paints a very rosy portrait (rosier than my fangirling has ever done) of Henry VIII's fourth wife---in Barnes's view, everyone loved Anne, confided in Anne, wished Anne were still queen, from the lowliest commoner to Thomas Cranmer, Charles Brandon, and, on occasion, even Henry himself.
However, it's still an enjoyable read and an interesting take on such an enigmatic historical figure.
----------------
I think the original manuscript of the novel was either scanned in or retyped and then not edited as carefully as it could have been. There were several places in which words seemed misused or out of place (such as firelight being "rejected in her eyes" rather than reflected). Also, I'm not sure if the lack of commas, which leads to confusion in complex sentences quite often, was how the original publication was edited or if it's how the book was originally punctuated. EDIT: In researching this further, it looks like the family might have "self" pubbed this reprint, since the imprint is through Sourcebooks, so I imagine it was retyped (lovingly, I'm certain) for this re-release. However, they should have hired a professional editor to both proofread it and update/correct the lack of punctuation to make the prose itself easier to read/comprehend.
May 17, 2013
This is a great book if you want to know more about the least known of Henry's wives. It spins Anne's story from her home in Cleves to the court in England where most of Henry's waiting ladies want her to fail even before she arrives.
The awful ordeal of being married off to someone she had never met who had already disposed of 2 wives, must have been very hard on a young woman. Anne had never travelled and could speak very little English. The infamous miniature by Holbein that leads to Henry agreeing to the marriage, here takes on a different hue. Holbein had a different view of beauty from that of the English court and in this story insists he has never embellished the picture of Anne but simply painted what he saw.
The character of Anne comes across as exceptional and refreshing. How different Henry's life may have been if he had given her more time while still his wife. Here was a no nonsense, practical, pleasant and kindly woman who would have made him the perfect wife - as later he realises. Anne's life of course is also restricted in that she never marries again or has children. The care she gives to both Elizabeth and Mary, both motherless girls, easily shows her nature. She even returns to court for festivities with both Katherine Howard and Katherine Parr as Queen.
This book is quite old now but is well worth a read.
The awful ordeal of being married off to someone she had never met who had already disposed of 2 wives, must have been very hard on a young woman. Anne had never travelled and could speak very little English. The infamous miniature by Holbein that leads to Henry agreeing to the marriage, here takes on a different hue. Holbein had a different view of beauty from that of the English court and in this story insists he has never embellished the picture of Anne but simply painted what he saw.
The character of Anne comes across as exceptional and refreshing. How different Henry's life may have been if he had given her more time while still his wife. Here was a no nonsense, practical, pleasant and kindly woman who would have made him the perfect wife - as later he realises. Anne's life of course is also restricted in that she never marries again or has children. The care she gives to both Elizabeth and Mary, both motherless girls, easily shows her nature. She even returns to court for festivities with both Katherine Howard and Katherine Parr as Queen.
This book is quite old now but is well worth a read.
January 27, 2019
The fourth wife of Henry VIII was one of the few to survive the marriage. After an unfortunate first meeting, the marriage only lasted a few months before ending in divorce. Yet, she doesn't capture the imagination as other wives do. Barnes paints a very a human portrait of the "Flanders mare" as a woman who was not as unattractive as history suggests and one whose virtues endeared her to the country, those whose path intersected with hers, the Tudor family, and ultimately her former husband.
This was a very well done novel. Barnes brings Anne alive as someone the reader can't help but sympathize with. I especially appreciated the sexual tension portrayed between her and Holbein for it must have been an untenable position to be forced into spinsterhood for a woman who desperately wanted to be a mother. I also really enjoyed the strength in which Barnes displays the relation between Anne and the daughters of of Henry.
I would recommend this to any Tudor fan. My one qualm is that I always have a problem with authors of historical fiction who do not include an author's note. This one lacks that.
This was a very well done novel. Barnes brings Anne alive as someone the reader can't help but sympathize with. I especially appreciated the sexual tension portrayed between her and Holbein for it must have been an untenable position to be forced into spinsterhood for a woman who desperately wanted to be a mother. I also really enjoyed the strength in which Barnes displays the relation between Anne and the daughters of of Henry.
I would recommend this to any Tudor fan. My one qualm is that I always have a problem with authors of historical fiction who do not include an author's note. This one lacks that.
June 20, 2017
Anne of Cleves was Henry VIII’s fourth wife. After a bad first meeting, they married anyway, but almost immediately, Henry was taken with Katherine Howard, so Henry and Anne’s marriage only lasted six months. They divorced and from then on, Anne was considered his “sister” and was treated quite well. This is a fictional account of their life together, and Anne’s life afterward, up until Henry’s death.
I thought it was really good. I’ve read a little bit about Anne of Cleves, but most of what I’ve read stops after her and Henry’s divorce, so it was fun to read what her life might have been like afterwards. For that reason, I found that part - the second half of the book - a little more interesting than the first half, though I did enjoy the entire book.
I thought it was really good. I’ve read a little bit about Anne of Cleves, but most of what I’ve read stops after her and Henry’s divorce, so it was fun to read what her life might have been like afterwards. For that reason, I found that part - the second half of the book - a little more interesting than the first half, though I did enjoy the entire book.
July 17, 2010
Anne of Cleves has always fascinated me. Was she really a fat and uncouth Flander's Mare. Or was she an intelligent & independent woman who set her own path?
This book definitely takes the latter viewpoint of the 4th wife. Whether or not this is an accurate historical representation is open to debate, but the character in the book is one that is lovable.
The one qualm I had with this book is Henry. The author tries to make him likeable... but, well, I kinda have taken to a great dislike of Henry Tudor. But, well, although he was capricious, there HAD to be some good qualities about him -- he did successfully run a kingdom.
Anyway, the story is about Anne -- and the author's style makes me want to read her other books.
This book definitely takes the latter viewpoint of the 4th wife. Whether or not this is an accurate historical representation is open to debate, but the character in the book is one that is lovable.
The one qualm I had with this book is Henry. The author tries to make him likeable... but, well, I kinda have taken to a great dislike of Henry Tudor. But, well, although he was capricious, there HAD to be some good qualities about him -- he did successfully run a kingdom.
Anyway, the story is about Anne -- and the author's style makes me want to read her other books.
October 30, 2018
This is another historical fiction novel that I have surprisingly enjoyed as it is not my favourite genre to read.
This is told from the perspective of the Anne of Cleves which is not one of Henry's wives that I know much about. It was a very enjoyable read and continues to the end of Anne's life (as she was only married to Henry for a short time anyway)
A huge irritation to me when reading historical fiction is the language and the way the characters are acting as it is so anachronistic. This book is the same unfortunately but I didn't mind it as much as I normally do as I was enjoying the book.
This is told from the perspective of the Anne of Cleves which is not one of Henry's wives that I know much about. It was a very enjoyable read and continues to the end of Anne's life (as she was only married to Henry for a short time anyway)
A huge irritation to me when reading historical fiction is the language and the way the characters are acting as it is so anachronistic. This book is the same unfortunately but I didn't mind it as much as I normally do as I was enjoying the book.
May 24, 2009
I am in love with Margaret Campbell Barnes. Her writing style is phenominal and precise. I love that she wrote an entire book centered around the least known wife of Henry VIII. Anne of Cleves was an amazing woman with many strengths. After reading this book, I feel as though Ms. Barnes captured her in a new light that needs to be shed upon her.
March 16, 2020
I bought this one years ago, but I just read it like two months ago. I am a huge Tudor fan, but this book was so slow and boring, and then I realized the copyright is from the 1940's, maybe that's why I didn't enjoy it.
June 14, 2025
لیدی آن کلیوز تونست با سیاست خودش رو از اعدام، تبعید و قتل دربار رها کنه، خیلی کتاب احساسی و راحتیه و قطعا دوباره سراغش میرم ♡-♡
February 9, 2024
Excellent! Happy to have discovered Margaret Campbell Barnes and her wonderful portrayal of Tudor England in this novel written in 1946. Head and shoulders above the work of more contemporary authors as regards this subject matter. Beautifully rendered historical fiction. I’m looking so forward to discovering many more of her books.
February 10, 2021
I admire this compassionate loving lady. She would have been a great queen. She was for 6 months. She loved the people her step children even the king. She was a great lady. This book is from her speaking.
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