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The Virgin Widow
A dazzling historical novel set during England's War of the Roses- the story of the courageous Anne Neville, future wife of Richard III, who comes of age in a time of chaos...
Anne Neville, daughter of the powerful Earl of Warwick, grows up during the War of the Roses, a time when kings and queens are made and destroyed in an on-going battle for the ultimate prize: the throne of England. As a child Anne falls in love with the ambitious, proud Richard of Gloucester, third son of the House of York. But when her father is branded a traitor, her family must flee to exile in France. As Anne matures into a beautiful, poised woman, skillfully navigating the treacherous royal court of Margaret of Anjou, she secretly longs for Richard, who has become a great man under his brother's rule. But as their families scheme for power, Anne must protect her heart from betrayals on both sides-and from the man she has always loved, and cannot bring herself to trust.
Anne Neville, daughter of the powerful Earl of Warwick, grows up during the War of the Roses, a time when kings and queens are made and destroyed in an on-going battle for the ultimate prize: the throne of England. As a child Anne falls in love with the ambitious, proud Richard of Gloucester, third son of the House of York. But when her father is branded a traitor, her family must flee to exile in France. As Anne matures into a beautiful, poised woman, skillfully navigating the treacherous royal court of Margaret of Anjou, she secretly longs for Richard, who has become a great man under his brother's rule. But as their families scheme for power, Anne must protect her heart from betrayals on both sides-and from the man she has always loved, and cannot bring herself to trust.
409 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2010
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4181 people want to read
About the author
Anne O'Brien
66 books784 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
My home is in the Welsh Marches, although much of my early life was spent in Yorkshire, most recently in the East Riding.Ann O'Brien The Marches is a remote region of England, surrounded by echoes from the past. Hereford is close with its famous Mappa Mundi and chained library.So is Shrewsbury, and also Ludlow with its splendid castle and its connections with our Plantagenet and Tudor kings. With my husband, I live in an eighteenth century timber framed cottage, which itself must have seen much history over two hundred years.
I have always enjoyed the appeal of History.I taught the subject with enthusiasm but it became my ambition to write historical romances. My first novel, The Runaway Heiress, was published by Mills and Boon in 2004.
This first book was a Regency Romance in the great tradition of Georgette Heyer - who has not admired her skill and delicate touch for the period? I have drawn on my interest in the Stuart century to write about the English Civil War and Restoration England of Charles II. Living in the Marches however I soon discovered the wealth of atmosphere and legend in this isolated part of England from medieval times. It was not long before I was encouraged to create a medieval romance inConquering Knight, Captive Lady.
When not writing, I have a large rambling garden where George and I grow organic vegetables and soft fruit - or perhaps I should admit that he grows them whilst I pick and cook them. We have a wild garden, an orchard, a formal pond and herbaceous flower borders. We share it all with rabbits and pheasants, frogs and goldfinches, hedgehogs and buzzards. It is a beautiful place. When we first settled into our cottage I planted a herb garden on a Tudor pattern with stone pathways and clipped box hedges. From this I developed my interest in herbs and their uses.
Nicholas Culpeper's The Complete Herbal, a fascinating resource to a historical novelist first published in 1649, has become essential bedside reading. As a result the use of herbs in medicine and witchcraft, for both good and ill, has appeared in some of my novels.
For pure relaxation I enjoy yoga as well as singing with a local Choral Society. Watercolour painting allows me to simply sit and appreciate the landscape and the flowers in my garden, when my mind is busy constructing my next plot.
My home is in the Welsh Marches, although much of my early life was spent in Yorkshire, most recently in the East Riding.Ann O'Brien The Marches is a remote region of England, surrounded by echoes from the past. Hereford is close with its famous Mappa Mundi and chained library.So is Shrewsbury, and also Ludlow with its splendid castle and its connections with our Plantagenet and Tudor kings. With my husband, I live in an eighteenth century timber framed cottage, which itself must have seen much history over two hundred years.
I have always enjoyed the appeal of History.I taught the subject with enthusiasm but it became my ambition to write historical romances. My first novel, The Runaway Heiress, was published by Mills and Boon in 2004.
This first book was a Regency Romance in the great tradition of Georgette Heyer - who has not admired her skill and delicate touch for the period? I have drawn on my interest in the Stuart century to write about the English Civil War and Restoration England of Charles II. Living in the Marches however I soon discovered the wealth of atmosphere and legend in this isolated part of England from medieval times. It was not long before I was encouraged to create a medieval romance inConquering Knight, Captive Lady.
When not writing, I have a large rambling garden where George and I grow organic vegetables and soft fruit - or perhaps I should admit that he grows them whilst I pick and cook them. We have a wild garden, an orchard, a formal pond and herbaceous flower borders. We share it all with rabbits and pheasants, frogs and goldfinches, hedgehogs and buzzards. It is a beautiful place. When we first settled into our cottage I planted a herb garden on a Tudor pattern with stone pathways and clipped box hedges. From this I developed my interest in herbs and their uses.
Nicholas Culpeper's The Complete Herbal, a fascinating resource to a historical novelist first published in 1649, has become essential bedside reading. As a result the use of herbs in medicine and witchcraft, for both good and ill, has appeared in some of my novels.
For pure relaxation I enjoy yoga as well as singing with a local Choral Society. Watercolour painting allows me to simply sit and appreciate the landscape and the flowers in my garden, when my mind is busy constructing my next plot.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 228 reviews
August 24, 2012
Anne Neville is on my list of favorite queens - I prefer the outrageous and the neglected ones, hence Eleanor of Aquitaine and Anne Neville being way up there on the notepad. Anne O'Brien's story of the early life of Anne Neville (or Nevill), youngest daughter of celebrated earl Richard Neville of Warwick, aka "The Kingmaker," was refreshing, different and followed the historical timeline with artistic license. The histories are silent regarding Richard the Third's queen save that she was a political pawn during the Wars of Roses and she may or may not have been a childhood sweetheart of Richard. We are shown Anne's life as the daughter of the second most powerful magnate in England during the early reign of Edward IV, her exile as a result of her father's political blunders, her betrothal/marriage to Edward of Wales, son of Henry VI, and yet another turn as a political pawn as Edward's younger brothers, George of Clarence and Richard of Gloucester squabble over her portion of the Nevill inheritance after the death of Warwick at the Battle of Barnet.
Ms. O'Brien does not give us a doe-eyed, suffering, victim in this Anne. She is compliant with her father's wishes, to be sure - she had no choice - but she shows strength and dignity in spite of all that is thrown at her, especially when she is forced to live with Queen Marguerite of Anjou and Edward and is witness to a royal household living in exile, living on the brink of destruction as the Queen tries to reclaim England for her husband and son, and Anne can do nothing. I enjoyed Ms. O'Brien's portrayal of Richard, duke of Gloucester who would later become King Richard the Third. He is enigmatic, quiet, a volcano not quite ready to explode and sure of his means and methods in getting what he wants. Shakespeare portrayed him as a dark, sinister, character and some of that legend is given to us, but with interesting twists - I won't spoil it for you - that I thought made the well-known story of Richard and Anne more interesting. He is sympathetic, but no angel. Anne's legendary 'disappearance' in London is also a part of the story and again, Ms. O'Brien tells a different story than I've read in the past and again, I loved it. Anne Nevill tells her own story and the prose is straightforward, real, and enjoyable, as is the dialogue without Anne, the Lancasters, the Yorks, sounding or playing out like a cable-TV soap opera. I would love it if Ms. O'Brien wrote the rest of Anne's story, sad though it was, especially if it gave us the struggles and heartbreak that fell upon Anne after Richard seized the throne in 1483. Yes, I recommend this book and it's going on my 'read-it-again' shelf.
Ms. O'Brien does not give us a doe-eyed, suffering, victim in this Anne. She is compliant with her father's wishes, to be sure - she had no choice - but she shows strength and dignity in spite of all that is thrown at her, especially when she is forced to live with Queen Marguerite of Anjou and Edward and is witness to a royal household living in exile, living on the brink of destruction as the Queen tries to reclaim England for her husband and son, and Anne can do nothing. I enjoyed Ms. O'Brien's portrayal of Richard, duke of Gloucester who would later become King Richard the Third. He is enigmatic, quiet, a volcano not quite ready to explode and sure of his means and methods in getting what he wants. Shakespeare portrayed him as a dark, sinister, character and some of that legend is given to us, but with interesting twists - I won't spoil it for you - that I thought made the well-known story of Richard and Anne more interesting. He is sympathetic, but no angel. Anne's legendary 'disappearance' in London is also a part of the story and again, Ms. O'Brien tells a different story than I've read in the past and again, I loved it. Anne Nevill tells her own story and the prose is straightforward, real, and enjoyable, as is the dialogue without Anne, the Lancasters, the Yorks, sounding or playing out like a cable-TV soap opera. I would love it if Ms. O'Brien wrote the rest of Anne's story, sad though it was, especially if it gave us the struggles and heartbreak that fell upon Anne after Richard seized the throne in 1483. Yes, I recommend this book and it's going on my 'read-it-again' shelf.
March 2, 2011
I guess we should thank Phillpa Gregory for a revival in historical romance; if only the hangers on had her talent! I have read a slew of do-I -want- to- be-a bodice ripper-or-do-I-want-to-pretend-I-have-historical-value-novels.This one probably falls in the middle of the pack as far as readability and historical accuracy goes. I think the authors of this genre should pay attention to how the authors of historical mysteries (like Margaret Frazier and Paul Doherty) weave their fact and fiction.
April 15, 2016
Great book, fast pace, never a dull moment.
July 15, 2016
"As for Richard - he is the light of my life. And I of his, so he says."
I have so much love for these two, they are my historical otp and there's so little known about their relationship. Richard III is very famous, he's the maligned king, but Anne Neville is known as 'the forgotten queen', which is very sad because I have the feeling that she was a very strong woman of the history. I want to start off by saying that I hate the Tudor propaganda and I believe Richard is not guitly of half the things they say he is. He might or might not have killed the Princes in the Tower (I'm skeptical because it was in his best interests to show the bodies like Edward showed Richard Neville's)...
Now that I made this clear, I want to say that I liked Richard's characterization in this book, it was more realistic, though it was at times very romantic, but I believe that was more how Richard III was like. Very loyal to his brother the king, loyal and a great warrior that knew he had to take risks in order to win. Anne Neville, the protagonist of this book, was a pawn in the War of Roses and her path was very interesting to follow. I loved to see more of her first marriage, I wished the sisters got along more (at least during their childhood), I have a feeling that Isabel wasn't as greedy as George was and I wish this book hadn't made her seem almost as bad as her husband. I've read some reviews of this book before I've started it and I have to agree that the secondary characters weren't as developed as Anne and Richard, but I still enjoyed the book nonetheless.
It's so awful to think of those times, I think it wasn't a great period to be a woman considering you had to marry at 14 years old or even earlier and bear children and worry about heirs and all that. Anne Neville had to struggle during her first marriage and she was very young and a bit immature (as it had been shown in the book, she figured out her father's plan so late), but she soon developed into a stronger character and you could see that. Her development and her relationship with Richard were the things I loved the most (they are just so cute together, I'm dying).
The things I didn't like about this book : there were some inaccuracies, , the fact that Richard and Anne didn't get a dispensation before their marriage, I'm pretty sure The Tudors supporters would have raged about it, if it happened, but I haven't heard of it before either. Also, another thing that irked me off was Richard killing Edward of Lancaster, another thing that was strongly denied by most contemporary historians, but supported by Shakespeare (whom I'm not going to trust on anything about Richard, sorry) .
So, while there were some inaccuracies, this book was very entertaining and I mostly loved the fact that Anne O'Brien decided to write a book about Anne Neville, with little historical facts since there aren't any letters of hers or documents... It was a bold move and I loved the writing in this one, the dialogues and the relationships. It was a great book overall for people who want to focus on the romance between Richard III and Anne Neville, if you're looking for something very historical accurate and focused on the battles and the politics, you'll probably have to look for another book.
I have so much love for these two, they are my historical otp and there's so little known about their relationship. Richard III is very famous, he's the maligned king, but Anne Neville is known as 'the forgotten queen', which is very sad because I have the feeling that she was a very strong woman of the history. I want to start off by saying that I hate the Tudor propaganda and I believe Richard is not guitly of half the things they say he is. He might or might not have killed the Princes in the Tower (I'm skeptical because it was in his best interests to show the bodies like Edward showed Richard Neville's)...
Now that I made this clear, I want to say that I liked Richard's characterization in this book, it was more realistic, though it was at times very romantic, but I believe that was more how Richard III was like. Very loyal to his brother the king, loyal and a great warrior that knew he had to take risks in order to win. Anne Neville, the protagonist of this book, was a pawn in the War of Roses and her path was very interesting to follow. I loved to see more of her first marriage, I wished the sisters got along more (at least during their childhood), I have a feeling that Isabel wasn't as greedy as George was and I wish this book hadn't made her seem almost as bad as her husband. I've read some reviews of this book before I've started it and I have to agree that the secondary characters weren't as developed as Anne and Richard, but I still enjoyed the book nonetheless.
It's so awful to think of those times, I think it wasn't a great period to be a woman considering you had to marry at 14 years old or even earlier and bear children and worry about heirs and all that. Anne Neville had to struggle during her first marriage and she was very young and a bit immature (as it had been shown in the book, she figured out her father's plan so late), but she soon developed into a stronger character and you could see that. Her development and her relationship with Richard were the things I loved the most (they are just so cute together, I'm dying).
The things I didn't like about this book : there were some inaccuracies, , the fact that Richard and Anne didn't get a dispensation before their marriage, I'm pretty sure The Tudors supporters would have raged about it, if it happened, but I haven't heard of it before either. Also, another thing that irked me off was Richard killing Edward of Lancaster, another thing that was strongly denied by most contemporary historians, but supported by Shakespeare (whom I'm not going to trust on anything about Richard, sorry) .
So, while there were some inaccuracies, this book was very entertaining and I mostly loved the fact that Anne O'Brien decided to write a book about Anne Neville, with little historical facts since there aren't any letters of hers or documents... It was a bold move and I loved the writing in this one, the dialogues and the relationships. It was a great book overall for people who want to focus on the romance between Richard III and Anne Neville, if you're looking for something very historical accurate and focused on the battles and the politics, you'll probably have to look for another book.
October 21, 2019
I really do like historical fiction, and though this has been good it hasn’t been a five star read. I liked Anne , She’s a very good leading character in this book as the virgin widow.
I’ve always been fascinated by the neville’s daughters, And Anne has always been the outstanding sister unlike Isabel. To be married to 2 kings in her lifetime and be destined for the throne of England twice through her marriages has made her a very strong woman in the Plantagenet world. But at the same time I feel like she has been a very misunderstood character, she has been the sister that has been in the shade until Richard stood his ground and kidnapped her to give her the freedom she desired.
I feel like life has always been sad despite her love for Richard and her marriage and becoming Queen of England. This book has portrayed that sadness, her life has always been determined to be in the path of the Plantagenet brothers by the power of her father and in some ways This has led to hers and Isabel’s downfall at their hands.
The writing has been a little staid, I felt that there was more need of Emotion in the characters, what they experienced and that’s why I can’t give it five stars.
I’ve always been fascinated by the neville’s daughters, And Anne has always been the outstanding sister unlike Isabel. To be married to 2 kings in her lifetime and be destined for the throne of England twice through her marriages has made her a very strong woman in the Plantagenet world. But at the same time I feel like she has been a very misunderstood character, she has been the sister that has been in the shade until Richard stood his ground and kidnapped her to give her the freedom she desired.
I feel like life has always been sad despite her love for Richard and her marriage and becoming Queen of England. This book has portrayed that sadness, her life has always been determined to be in the path of the Plantagenet brothers by the power of her father and in some ways This has led to hers and Isabel’s downfall at their hands.
The writing has been a little staid, I felt that there was more need of Emotion in the characters, what they experienced and that’s why I can’t give it five stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2012
As soon as Anne O'Brien talked to me of her first book on Anne Neville, VIRGIN WIDOW, while we were arranging her interview for my blog www.flyhigh-by-learnonline.blogspot.com to present her second historical novel, Queen Defiant, I wished I could read it. After Sharon Key Penman's The Sunne in Splendour, and Josephine Tey's The Daughter of Time , I wanted to know more about those events linked to the War of the Roses and to King Richard III's personal story. I was curious to see those known facts from a different point of view, from Anne Neville's eyes.
She lived for only twenty- eight years and left little imprint of herself in history books so, maybe, this is what makes her an intriguing enigma. Such a fascinating character, whose personality may be freely created through imagination- since other than the date of birth and death and a minimum record of the significant events in her life, we know nothing about her likes, temper, wishes, personal reactions - couldn't go on ignored by historical fiction. This is the blank Anne O'Brien tried to fill in writing VIRGIN WIDOW.
This novel is first of all a romance, following the legendary love story between Anne Neville and her cousin, Richard Plantagenet; then it is an adventure story full of action, conspiracy, battles, horseback journeys, dangerous crossing the Channel, lots of twists and turns; it is also a formation novel following Anne's growing up and turning from a very young, arrogant, proud girl from a powerful and privileged family to a mature, determined and even stoic young woman; finally, it is a thorough accurate narration of historical events.
The narrative opens in medias res, with the Nevilles and Clarence leaving England for France on exile. We follow Anne Neville's memories and witness the present events through her first person narration. We follow the story of her young years as the heiress and daughter of the Earl of Warwick, the Kingmaker, is trapped in a deadly tangle of political intrigue, used by the houses of Neville, York and Lancaster alike. Then, her fall into disgrace, her struggle through the most terrible, humiliating experiences both in France, as the wife of Edward of Lancaster, as well as in her country, where she must defend herself from her own sister's and brother-in-law's plot.
Richard Plantagenet, though he acts as a knight in shining armour to protect and finally wed his beloved Anne, in this novel is quite a round character with his own flaws and faults, quite different from the almost perfect portrayal we've met in other novels about him.
Anne herself is a rather gripping character, for her strength and bravery, but also for her human imperfection, especially in her relationship with Richard, where she shows all her frailty and vulnerability.
There are some differences of opinion among historians : did Anne remain a virgin throughout her first marriage? Did the birth of Anne and Richard's son's - the date is uncertain - suggest his conception before their marriage? There is no evidence of an attraction between Anne and Richard during their upbringing at Middleham - but there is no evidence it did not exist.
Anne O'Brien works on these speculations creating a convincing plot, a compulsively readable novel, supported by her vivid prose and accurate knowledge of the historical background. We leave Anne and Richard at the apex of their happiness. Their son has just been born, they are young and both deeply in love. The worst moments in the past are dark memories. The future yet unknown to them. Alas, not to us.
"Richard smiles at me. His eyes are dark with pride and love"
She lived for only twenty- eight years and left little imprint of herself in history books so, maybe, this is what makes her an intriguing enigma. Such a fascinating character, whose personality may be freely created through imagination- since other than the date of birth and death and a minimum record of the significant events in her life, we know nothing about her likes, temper, wishes, personal reactions - couldn't go on ignored by historical fiction. This is the blank Anne O'Brien tried to fill in writing VIRGIN WIDOW.
This novel is first of all a romance, following the legendary love story between Anne Neville and her cousin, Richard Plantagenet; then it is an adventure story full of action, conspiracy, battles, horseback journeys, dangerous crossing the Channel, lots of twists and turns; it is also a formation novel following Anne's growing up and turning from a very young, arrogant, proud girl from a powerful and privileged family to a mature, determined and even stoic young woman; finally, it is a thorough accurate narration of historical events.
The narrative opens in medias res, with the Nevilles and Clarence leaving England for France on exile. We follow Anne Neville's memories and witness the present events through her first person narration. We follow the story of her young years as the heiress and daughter of the Earl of Warwick, the Kingmaker, is trapped in a deadly tangle of political intrigue, used by the houses of Neville, York and Lancaster alike. Then, her fall into disgrace, her struggle through the most terrible, humiliating experiences both in France, as the wife of Edward of Lancaster, as well as in her country, where she must defend herself from her own sister's and brother-in-law's plot.
Richard Plantagenet, though he acts as a knight in shining armour to protect and finally wed his beloved Anne, in this novel is quite a round character with his own flaws and faults, quite different from the almost perfect portrayal we've met in other novels about him.
Anne herself is a rather gripping character, for her strength and bravery, but also for her human imperfection, especially in her relationship with Richard, where she shows all her frailty and vulnerability.
There are some differences of opinion among historians : did Anne remain a virgin throughout her first marriage? Did the birth of Anne and Richard's son's - the date is uncertain - suggest his conception before their marriage? There is no evidence of an attraction between Anne and Richard during their upbringing at Middleham - but there is no evidence it did not exist.
Anne O'Brien works on these speculations creating a convincing plot, a compulsively readable novel, supported by her vivid prose and accurate knowledge of the historical background. We leave Anne and Richard at the apex of their happiness. Their son has just been born, they are young and both deeply in love. The worst moments in the past are dark memories. The future yet unknown to them. Alas, not to us.
"Richard smiles at me. His eyes are dark with pride and love"
November 8, 2020
I read this book a while ago, but neglected to write a review. Since my reviews help me keep straight the many Richard III/Anne Neville novels I read, I decided to give this one a quick re-read and post a review. Here, Anne tells the story of her life and her relationship with Richard as a romantic adventure. This Anne is proud and outspoken. She is in love and betrothed to Richard. But the betrothal ends when her ambitious father, the Earl of Warwick rebels against King Edward and allies himself with the rival Lancastrians by marrying off Anne to Edward of Lancaster. Edward is physically handsome, and conducts himself with courtly charm—both in contrast to Richard. She soon discovers that underneath his outward appearance Edward can be brutal and unconcerned for the welfare of others—people and animals. This also contrasts with Richard’s character.
Sometimes the story veers into the melodramatic—most notably the scene of Anne’s wedding night with Edward which gives rise to the title, as well as the suggestion of incest between Edward and his mother, Margaret of Anjou. Anne’s agonizing whether Richard really loves her does get a bit tedious, but this is a fun enjoyable read. One with a happy ending, as it ends with the birth of Anne and Richard’s son.
Sometimes the story veers into the melodramatic—most notably the scene of Anne’s wedding night with Edward which gives rise to the title, as well as the suggestion of incest between Edward and his mother, Margaret of Anjou. Anne’s agonizing whether Richard really loves her does get a bit tedious, but this is a fun enjoyable read. One with a happy ending, as it ends with the birth of Anne and Richard’s son.
December 23, 2010
As a fan of historical fiction, I was excited to read The Virgin Widow. I was even more excited to find out that it was a fast, fun read that was interesting throughout.
O’Brien lists Anne Neville as the “forgotten queen”, and although she might be forgotten she shouldn’t be.Traded back and forth like the perfect commodity, Anne was two times a queen. Posed on both sides of the War of the Roses, Anne was never able to choose a husband for herself. Instead, Anne made the only choice available to her, and she decided to handle these matches obediently and patiently. The Virgin Widow allows readers into the mind of “traded” bride, and I thought O’Brien developed her character well.
One area I found troubling was the relationship between Anne Neville and Richard of Gloucester. If my calculations are correct, then Richard and Anne were first cousins. I know. I know. This was common practice at the time, but I still found the love story between the two disturbing. I was able to get past it though because Anne was such a likable character.
Overall, The Virgin Widow was an intriguing read that introduced me to the War of the Roses.
O’Brien lists Anne Neville as the “forgotten queen”, and although she might be forgotten she shouldn’t be.Traded back and forth like the perfect commodity, Anne was two times a queen. Posed on both sides of the War of the Roses, Anne was never able to choose a husband for herself. Instead, Anne made the only choice available to her, and she decided to handle these matches obediently and patiently. The Virgin Widow allows readers into the mind of “traded” bride, and I thought O’Brien developed her character well.
One area I found troubling was the relationship between Anne Neville and Richard of Gloucester. If my calculations are correct, then Richard and Anne were first cousins. I know. I know. This was common practice at the time, but I still found the love story between the two disturbing. I was able to get past it though because Anne was such a likable character.
Overall, The Virgin Widow was an intriguing read that introduced me to the War of the Roses.
October 3, 2015
DNF after 80 pages
Ugh. UGH.
So boring. I just couldn't make myself continue.
I got sucked in at the bookstore by the intriguing and so cliché title, but it just wasn't a very good book. After 80 pages, pretty much NOTHING had happened, and there wasn't even any good characterization or a tantalizing romance to keep me interested.
Oh well!
Ugh. UGH.
So boring. I just couldn't make myself continue.
I got sucked in at the bookstore by the intriguing and so cliché title, but it just wasn't a very good book. After 80 pages, pretty much NOTHING had happened, and there wasn't even any good characterization or a tantalizing romance to keep me interested.
Oh well!
February 26, 2022
Rated 3 stars. Enjoyed this more then I thought I would. Was interesting to view some of the historical events during The War of the Roses from the fictional perspective of Anne Neville. Not much has been written about Anne although she was the daughter of The Kingmaker; Richard Neville Earl of Warwick. She is married off at a very young age to Edward of Lancaster, who is portrayed here as emotionally and mentally unstable with a temper. So an unhappy time for Anne. Richard III is an important part of her life but not going to post any other details that could be viewed as spoilers to those who don't known the history of this time. If you're a fan of historical fiction set during The War of Roses you might enjoy this although it's more romance then history.
February 8, 2011
Richard III was SEXY!!! I completely enjoyed this fresh look at a much maligned person from history, no thanks to William Shakespeare. Anne O'Brien is a historian who thoroughly knows this time period (War of the Roses). As an American, I was somewhat unfamiliar with the history of the Houses of York and Lancaster and their struggles over the throne of England. But O'Brien's storytelling (although I realize that most scenes and all dialogue were fictionalized) help to breathe life into the history and help the reader understand the political intrigues, war, and manipulations of the time. Richard is depicted as a war hero, a trusted aide to his brother King Edward, and the true love of Anne Neville, his distant cousin. The story is told from Anne's point of view, and while I am not a fan of first person storytelling (as it limits other characters' viewpoints), it works in this case as the reader encounters surprises through Anne's eyes. This is also the first recent historical fiction I've read in which the author does not step away from the story to give the reader a history lesson. O'Brien lets her writing tell history through context, which keeps the story fast-paced. I'm off to read more about Richard!
September 26, 2021
I actually enjoyed this quite a lot! I am not so familiar with the true history of the War of the Roses, only with bits and pieces but I did not see this as true history but as historical fiction as, I am sure, the author would want us to see it…
December 22, 2010
More romance than historical. Full review here, http://misfitandmom.wordpress.com/201...
January 11, 2019
Anne Neville is the daughter of one of the most powerful men in England. Earl of Warwick was the one to help Edward of York to become a King. But when the Edward marries without Warwick’s approval, the famous Kingmaker proclaims he’s not a man to shove aside.
The book follows Anne’s story as her hand was promised to the brave prince Richard. However, the court intrigues of her legendary father, take her not only away from her beloved fiancé, but also from her country and her home. She faces many up and downs, her fortune is challenging and dangerous: she faces betrayals, exile, political marriage with a creepy man (the weak-willed son of Queen Margaret of Anjou), loss of a father and sister, fear of losing her mother and all of her inheritance. She is struggling to stay loyal to her family, especially when her heart lies elsewhere. Anne got tangled in the middle of the conspiracy, but the only thing she really wants is to live in peace with the man she loves.
This is one of the best historical fiction novels I’ve read and the favorite about Anne Neville and Richard III. I absolutely loved Anne as the main character. She is great! I loved following her life and watching her growth as a character and as a person. At the beginning she’s just a shy girl living in the shadow of her more beautiful sister, she’s in love with a prince, who barely notices her, her father Warwick uses her for his plotting against the King but she goes through a lot during this book and turns into a wonderful, brave, strong-minded woman.
Anne and Richard are definitely my favorite historical couple. I loved how their love survived all the drama of the politics, rebellions, betrayals, and wars.
Previously I read about Anne in Philippa Gregory’s The Kingmakers Daughter, but this version I like better. Probably because Anne portrayed in a better way. Gregory’s Anne is going with the flow and she almost lacks personality but in this book, I got really impressed with her strength and will. I admired her endurance, patience, and dignity. Anne, indeed, is an interesting and worthy of admiration.
Many reviews claim that this novel is not very historically accurate but guys, this is fiction. I don't mind authors adding stuff to the story and if I want to know some historical facts I turn to history books but this is pure entertainment! The book is fast paced, interesting, and very emotional. I have to admit I even cried when Anne and Richard had to separate once again.
The book follows Anne’s story as her hand was promised to the brave prince Richard. However, the court intrigues of her legendary father, take her not only away from her beloved fiancé, but also from her country and her home. She faces many up and downs, her fortune is challenging and dangerous: she faces betrayals, exile, political marriage with a creepy man (the weak-willed son of Queen Margaret of Anjou), loss of a father and sister, fear of losing her mother and all of her inheritance. She is struggling to stay loyal to her family, especially when her heart lies elsewhere. Anne got tangled in the middle of the conspiracy, but the only thing she really wants is to live in peace with the man she loves.
This is one of the best historical fiction novels I’ve read and the favorite about Anne Neville and Richard III. I absolutely loved Anne as the main character. She is great! I loved following her life and watching her growth as a character and as a person. At the beginning she’s just a shy girl living in the shadow of her more beautiful sister, she’s in love with a prince, who barely notices her, her father Warwick uses her for his plotting against the King but she goes through a lot during this book and turns into a wonderful, brave, strong-minded woman.
Anne and Richard are definitely my favorite historical couple. I loved how their love survived all the drama of the politics, rebellions, betrayals, and wars.
Previously I read about Anne in Philippa Gregory’s The Kingmakers Daughter, but this version I like better. Probably because Anne portrayed in a better way. Gregory’s Anne is going with the flow and she almost lacks personality but in this book, I got really impressed with her strength and will. I admired her endurance, patience, and dignity. Anne, indeed, is an interesting and worthy of admiration.
Many reviews claim that this novel is not very historically accurate but guys, this is fiction. I don't mind authors adding stuff to the story and if I want to know some historical facts I turn to history books but this is pure entertainment! The book is fast paced, interesting, and very emotional. I have to admit I even cried when Anne and Richard had to separate once again.
June 9, 2024
I love anything to do with Richard of Gloucester and Anne Neville. Though this is not my favourite, it is still beautifully written. I loved that Anne is a more rounded character she is strong and brave in this. I also loved the romance between her and Richard of course, I am always here for that. My only thing is that I did not like that Anne O Briens Richard kills Prince Edward, it just did not sit right with me, though this is a work of fiction and adds more drama to the story, there are inaccuracies yes but I enjoyed it.
December 9, 2018
I loved historical novels as a teenager, but - Dorothy Dunnett aside - I very rarely read them now. Reading ‘Virgin Widow’ as a re-exploration of the current historical novel arena has been a rewarding, but ultimately unchallenging, experience. This is, I think, because the first-person narration limits the possible scope of the novel and reduces it to a fairly generic female experience within a specific historical place and time.
However, the writing is skilful and the characters well-drawn, although Richard of York is - arguably - too romantically portrayed. Predictably, Anne Neville (the protagonist who recounts her own story) remains confined within the well-defined perimeters of the classic historical heroine, but author Anne O’Brien provides the reader with an enjoyable and well-researched fictional account of several major events and characters during a tumultuous period of English history.
However, the writing is skilful and the characters well-drawn, although Richard of York is - arguably - too romantically portrayed. Predictably, Anne Neville (the protagonist who recounts her own story) remains confined within the well-defined perimeters of the classic historical heroine, but author Anne O’Brien provides the reader with an enjoyable and well-researched fictional account of several major events and characters during a tumultuous period of English history.
August 5, 2010
I really wanted to like this book; I find Anne Neville and her story fascinating. The book is a nice enough run-through of what little we *do* know about Anne, as well as her part in the Wars of the Roses, and I enjoyed it as a novel, but I didn't walk away loving it. I also found the "closure" a bit unsettling ~ after spending many many pages learning about Anne and coming to care for her, a one sentence "she died in ...." was a bit harsh!
And, also, the title is a bit misleading ~ the book covers no time that Anne was actually Queen ....
And, also, the title is a bit misleading ~ the book covers no time that Anne was actually Queen ....
August 9, 2018
At some point of my life I really liked historical fiction. That's how I decided to pick up this book and I must say, it was a huge mistake.
The characters are dull and uninteresting, writing style was less than decent, the plot.... Where the hell is the plot???
Not a book I'd recommend.
The characters are dull and uninteresting, writing style was less than decent, the plot.... Where the hell is the plot???
Not a book I'd recommend.
December 12, 2019
This was perfectly readable, but oh my god the melodrama lmao.
January 17, 2026
The young Anne Neville, along with her parents, her heavily pregnant sister Isabel, and Isabel’s husband George, Duke of Clarence, must flee England after her father and brother-in-law betray King Edward. Upon arrival in Calais, they are denied entry to the port, which causes a personal drama for Isabel. In France, they are taken in by King Louis, who has his own plans to match the Neville forces to the fugitive French queen Margaret of Anjou and the House of Lancaster. And Anne will become an important pawn in all of this.
Last year, I read O’Brien’s ‘The Queen and the Countess‘ which was about Anne Neville’s mother and Margaret of Anjou. Anne Neville is mentioned in it, and the way she was portrayed, as a queen who resented her mother greatly, intrigued me enough to pick up this book.
Virgin widow is one of O’Brien’s first historical novels and unfortunately the book does not cover her period as Queen of England or her struggle against her mother. O’Brien focuses on her two marriages and ends the book at Anne’s happiest moment – which was before her time as queen.
Not a bad choice in itself. There is much to be said about her father’s betrayal and her marriage to Edward of Lancaster and the aftermath of the battles at Barnet and Tewkesbury. O’Brien also deliberately writes a romance: Anne and Richard are hopelessly in love, and that is the thread running through the story. Not my favorite approach, but there was probably an affection between the two, and Richard’s character is not all positive so this makes for a balanced view.
I also understand that O’Brien stops early so as not to have to cover the death of Clarence, the story of the princess and Richard’s cruel seizure of power after the death of his brother Edward, because that would make it even more difficult to portray Richard as a kind man. The book is obviously very pro-York, but I thought the Lancaster side was well covered. I’m just sometimes bothered by how hard people want to take Richard III out of the Shakespearian context and then portray him in a way that’s far too positive. Richard III did cruel things, no more or less than The Tudors who lay much blame at Richard’s door, but it doesn’t change the cruel things he did (I’m not referring to the princes, as we don’t know, but he set aside the legal heir to the throne, killed his guardians and his brother’s most trusted advisor on the spot and so on…).
I was a little bothered by the fact that Anne and Isabel called their parents The Countess and The Earl, while they addressed their husbands by their first names. At the same time, I thought this book gave a better picture of The Countess and Margaret Of Anjou than the book that came out last year. In this book, Anne is still a supporter of her mother, but that will change.
This isn’t O’Brien’s best book, but it was a real page-turner and really brought the Wars of the Roses to life. So I enjoyed reading it. She sticks fairly closely to the facts, with the occasional interpretation of her own, such as the love between Anne and Richard and the fact that Anne is a ‘virgin widow’, as the title of the book suggests. I was already very familiar with the story of Anne Neville, a forgotten queen. But I am convinced that this is a very accessible book for those who do not know her yet. And better than the Gregory book.
Dutch review:
Anne Neville moet samen met haar ouders, haar hoogzwangere zus Isabel en diens man George, duke of Clarence, Engeland ontvluchten nadat haar vader en zwager koning Edward hebben verraden. Bij aankomst in Calais mogen ze de haven niet in, wat zorgt voor een drama voor Isabel. In Frankrijk krijgen ze opvang bij koning Louis, die zo zijn eigen plannen heeft om de Nevilles te koppelen aan de gevluchte Franse koningin Margaret Of Anjou en het huis van Lancaster. En Anne zal een belangrijke pion worden in dat alles.
Ik las vorig jaar 'The queen and the countess' van O' Brien, dit ging over de moeder van Anne Neville en Margaret Of Anjou. Anne Neville komt daarin aan bod, en de manier waarop ze werd neergezet, als een koningin die haar moeder heel wat kwalijk nam, intrigeerde me om dit boek op te pakken.
Dit is één van O' Briens eerste historische romans en het boek covert helaas niet haar periode als koningin van Engeland of haar strijd tegen haar moeder. O' Brien focust op haar twee huwelijken en eindigt het boek op Anne's gelukkigste moment - en dat was voor haar tijd als koningin.
Op zich geen slechte keuze. Er is veel te vertellen over haar vaders verraad en haar huwelijk met Edward Of Lancaster en de naweeën van Barnet en Tewkesbury. O' Brien schrijf ook bewust een romance: Anne en Richard zijn hopeloos verliefd en dat is de rode draad doorheen het verhaal. Niet mijn favoriete insteek, maar er was waarschijnlijk wel een genegenheid tussen de twee, en Richard is niet perfect in het boek dus ik snap het wel.
Ik snap ook dat O' Brien vroegtijdig stopt om de dood van Clarence, het verhaal over de princes en zijn wrede machtsovername van de troon na de dood van zijn broer Edward allemaal niet te moeten coveren, want dat maakt het plots nog moeilijker om een lieve Richard neer te zetten. Het boek is uiteraard heel pro York, maar ik vond de Lancasterkant goed belicht. Ik stoor me gewoon soms aan hoe hard mensen Richard III uit de Shakespeare context willen halen en hem dan veel te positief belichten. Die man heeft wrede dingen gedaan, niet meer of minder dan The Tudors, maar het blijft een wrede man.
Ik stoorde me een beetje aan het feit dat Anne en Isabel hun ouders The Countess en The Earl noemden, terwijl ze hun mannen wel bij hun voornaam aanspreken. Tegelijk vond ik dat dit boek een beter beeld gaf van The countess en Margaret Of Anjou, dan het boek dat afgelopen jaar uitkwam. In dit boek is Anne echt nog een supporter van haar moeder en dat zal dus veranderen.
Dit is niet het allerbeste boek van O' Brien, maar het las wel als een trein en doet de rozenoorlogen toch wat tot leven komen. Ze blijft redelijk dicht bij de feiten, met af en toe een eigen interpretatie, zoals de liefde tussen Anne & Richard & het feit dat Anne een 'virgin widow' is zoals de titel van het boek doet vermoeden. Ik ben ook al heel erg gekend met het verhaal van Anne Neville, een vergeten koningin. Maar ik ben ervan overtuigd dat dit een zeer toegankelijk boek is voor wie haar nog niet kent.
Last year, I read O’Brien’s ‘The Queen and the Countess‘ which was about Anne Neville’s mother and Margaret of Anjou. Anne Neville is mentioned in it, and the way she was portrayed, as a queen who resented her mother greatly, intrigued me enough to pick up this book.
Virgin widow is one of O’Brien’s first historical novels and unfortunately the book does not cover her period as Queen of England or her struggle against her mother. O’Brien focuses on her two marriages and ends the book at Anne’s happiest moment – which was before her time as queen.
Not a bad choice in itself. There is much to be said about her father’s betrayal and her marriage to Edward of Lancaster and the aftermath of the battles at Barnet and Tewkesbury. O’Brien also deliberately writes a romance: Anne and Richard are hopelessly in love, and that is the thread running through the story. Not my favorite approach, but there was probably an affection between the two, and Richard’s character is not all positive so this makes for a balanced view.
I also understand that O’Brien stops early so as not to have to cover the death of Clarence, the story of the princess and Richard’s cruel seizure of power after the death of his brother Edward, because that would make it even more difficult to portray Richard as a kind man. The book is obviously very pro-York, but I thought the Lancaster side was well covered. I’m just sometimes bothered by how hard people want to take Richard III out of the Shakespearian context and then portray him in a way that’s far too positive. Richard III did cruel things, no more or less than The Tudors who lay much blame at Richard’s door, but it doesn’t change the cruel things he did (I’m not referring to the princes, as we don’t know, but he set aside the legal heir to the throne, killed his guardians and his brother’s most trusted advisor on the spot and so on…).
I was a little bothered by the fact that Anne and Isabel called their parents The Countess and The Earl, while they addressed their husbands by their first names. At the same time, I thought this book gave a better picture of The Countess and Margaret Of Anjou than the book that came out last year. In this book, Anne is still a supporter of her mother, but that will change.
This isn’t O’Brien’s best book, but it was a real page-turner and really brought the Wars of the Roses to life. So I enjoyed reading it. She sticks fairly closely to the facts, with the occasional interpretation of her own, such as the love between Anne and Richard and the fact that Anne is a ‘virgin widow’, as the title of the book suggests. I was already very familiar with the story of Anne Neville, a forgotten queen. But I am convinced that this is a very accessible book for those who do not know her yet. And better than the Gregory book.
Dutch review:
Anne Neville moet samen met haar ouders, haar hoogzwangere zus Isabel en diens man George, duke of Clarence, Engeland ontvluchten nadat haar vader en zwager koning Edward hebben verraden. Bij aankomst in Calais mogen ze de haven niet in, wat zorgt voor een drama voor Isabel. In Frankrijk krijgen ze opvang bij koning Louis, die zo zijn eigen plannen heeft om de Nevilles te koppelen aan de gevluchte Franse koningin Margaret Of Anjou en het huis van Lancaster. En Anne zal een belangrijke pion worden in dat alles.
Ik las vorig jaar 'The queen and the countess' van O' Brien, dit ging over de moeder van Anne Neville en Margaret Of Anjou. Anne Neville komt daarin aan bod, en de manier waarop ze werd neergezet, als een koningin die haar moeder heel wat kwalijk nam, intrigeerde me om dit boek op te pakken.
Dit is één van O' Briens eerste historische romans en het boek covert helaas niet haar periode als koningin van Engeland of haar strijd tegen haar moeder. O' Brien focust op haar twee huwelijken en eindigt het boek op Anne's gelukkigste moment - en dat was voor haar tijd als koningin.
Op zich geen slechte keuze. Er is veel te vertellen over haar vaders verraad en haar huwelijk met Edward Of Lancaster en de naweeën van Barnet en Tewkesbury. O' Brien schrijf ook bewust een romance: Anne en Richard zijn hopeloos verliefd en dat is de rode draad doorheen het verhaal. Niet mijn favoriete insteek, maar er was waarschijnlijk wel een genegenheid tussen de twee, en Richard is niet perfect in het boek dus ik snap het wel.
Ik snap ook dat O' Brien vroegtijdig stopt om de dood van Clarence, het verhaal over de princes en zijn wrede machtsovername van de troon na de dood van zijn broer Edward allemaal niet te moeten coveren, want dat maakt het plots nog moeilijker om een lieve Richard neer te zetten. Het boek is uiteraard heel pro York, maar ik vond de Lancasterkant goed belicht. Ik stoor me gewoon soms aan hoe hard mensen Richard III uit de Shakespeare context willen halen en hem dan veel te positief belichten. Die man heeft wrede dingen gedaan, niet meer of minder dan The Tudors, maar het blijft een wrede man.
Ik stoorde me een beetje aan het feit dat Anne en Isabel hun ouders The Countess en The Earl noemden, terwijl ze hun mannen wel bij hun voornaam aanspreken. Tegelijk vond ik dat dit boek een beter beeld gaf van The countess en Margaret Of Anjou, dan het boek dat afgelopen jaar uitkwam. In dit boek is Anne echt nog een supporter van haar moeder en dat zal dus veranderen.
Dit is niet het allerbeste boek van O' Brien, maar het las wel als een trein en doet de rozenoorlogen toch wat tot leven komen. Ze blijft redelijk dicht bij de feiten, met af en toe een eigen interpretatie, zoals de liefde tussen Anne & Richard & het feit dat Anne een 'virgin widow' is zoals de titel van het boek doet vermoeden. Ik ben ook al heel erg gekend met het verhaal van Anne Neville, een vergeten koningin. Maar ik ben ervan overtuigd dat dit een zeer toegankelijk boek is voor wie haar nog niet kent.
June 17, 2012
A stirring romance painted on a historical canvas of palace intrigue, ambition, deceit, and betrayal. Prepare to discover one of the world’s oft-overlooked heroines, who lived during England’s notorious Wars of the Roses. Daughter of The Kingmaker and beloved of the future King Richard III, Anne Neville’s voice will leave a powerful impact long after you turn the last page.
Anne O’Brien’s debut novel is nothing short of an impressive start to what could very possibly evolve into an illustrious writing career. Bravely plunging head-first into what has become a somewhat saturated sub-genre of historical fiction, she expertly carves out her own niche and creates a fresh style, rather than leaving readers feeling as though they’ve read it all before. Managing – in a succinct yet eloquently poetic manner – to bring to life one of history’s more obscure heroines; painting a world of romance and intrigue, while still remaining true to the period in which her characters reside.
“The Virgin Widow” is a story told in the voice of Lady Anne Neville, youngest child of Richard Neville, the Earl of Warick…infamously known in history books as The Kingmaker. A man who was single-handedly responsible for placing Kings on the throne of England as surely as he was responsible for cutting them down. Arguably one of the most influential players in England’s notorious Wars of the Roses…giving Anne (and through her, the audience) a front-row seat to witness a bloody, tumultuous period in history.
The novel itself begins not at the beginning of the Wars, but rather starts at the peak of triumph for the Neville family. King Edward IV is firmly in place on the throne, beloved by all, and The Kingmaker who put him there is beloved and trusted above all others as an advisor. Anne Neville is at this time merely eight years old. Watching the hustle and bustle of her household through the eyes of a child; the important nobility moving through her father’s dining halls even as children from royal houses are sent to live in her home to learn proper etiquette and behavior. And it’s no surprise that at first Anne has an idolized view of her father; seeing him as a man with no equal in prowess or intelligence.
Into this world comes Richard of Gloucester, the younger brother of King Edward. At first Anne doesn’t particularly care for the dark-haired, solemn youth…but as time marches on and the pair grow up together, the inevitable happens as a young romance begins to bloom.
The author manages to do what so few historical authors can; artfully summarizing the passage of years in a matter of a few chapters, rather than bogging her audience down with minute details that would risk boring the senses. O’Brien is able to aptly and efficiently paint a world of harsh realities (particularly for women) and dangerous undercurrents, yet always maintaining the flow of the story. There is never a dull moment; never a page that seems like wasted space.
Readers become aware, quickly, of the fact that even as life for young Anne is beginning to shine as she falls in love for the first time, life for her beloved father is on the decline. His place at court thrown into question by King Edward’s ill-advised marriage to a commoner; an ambitious woman who slowly but surely places her own family at court and as a result displaces, one by one, the Nevilles and all of their carefully won influence.
Anne herself is forced to grow up rapidly; at first offered a glorious, fairy-tale happily ever after when she is betrothed to Richard, the man she loves…only to see that betrothal ripped away when she and the King’s brother are used as pawns in a dangerous game of chess between King Edward and the Earl. Her life is sent careening through one disastrous mistake after another; showing her that not only does a daughter reap the rewards of her father’s triumphs, but she also must suffer for his mistakes. Forcing an understanding that with ambition there is often a heavy price to be paid.
O’Brien, above all else, does an outstanding job of remaining true to Anne’s character throughout everything that transpires in the novel. Not once does it seem she loses sight of just who her narrator is; unafraid to at times bequeath in Anne painfully human flaws, but then also allowing her, as a result, to have other shining moments of stunning sacrifice and courage. Nothing is swept under the rug. There is nothing sugar-coated about the author’s depiction of Lady Anne Neville.
And yet that, more than anything, is what makes this debut novel such a gem.
Anne begins the novel as a young, precocious, somewhat spoiled child. Having grown up surrounded by all the best money can buy. Loved by her mother and her father. Knowing she is destined for a great marriage and an influential life at court. Believing above all else that her father is just and correct in all things. It goes without saying; there are times at the start of the novel where readers may not like Lady Anne very much. But truly…can’t that be said of any adolescent girl? For adolescent she is, and the author isn’t afraid to wallow in that painful phase of growth and development for a while, like pushing on a sore bruise and leaving the audience often cringing and wincing at some of Anne’s behavior.
Yet it works. By allowing readers to see where Anne starts, it makes us appreciate all the more what she grows into as she matures into an intelligent, courageous young woman. Because no matter what her flaws may be, Anne is always endearing. Readers, like Richard of Gloucester himself, cannot help but fall in love with her. And as a result, we weep for her as her world falls apart. Watching as, through her father’s mistakes, she is forced to pay a heavy price. Her pride stripped bare. Her heart crushed as the man she loves is torn away from her. Thrust into a loveless marriage in a foreign land, and all but abused by a vicious and distrustful mother-in-law; a disillusioned child sacrificed by the father she’s always adored in the name of his ambition.
O’Brien allows Anne to overcome her struggles and fight for what she loves in a manner that is dignified, admirable, and tear-worthy…all while remaining in the end true to the era in which she lives. There is never a moment where readers will roll their eyes as the author injects a modern woman’s personality or modern day sentiments into the middle ages. No; for all her intelligence and her pride and her courage, Anne is forced, as all women of her day were, to endure the machinations and the plotting and the scheming of the men in her life. In the end doing the only thing she could by clambering towards the one man who could potentially protect her, and in the end save her and grant her some semblance of freedom.
It’s a beautifully woven tale that reads very, very quickly, with Anne O’Brien easily holding her own against some of the more seasoned historical fiction authors of today. And by choosing a lesser-known character in the stories of the Wars of the Roses, readers are allowed a new perspective on an age-old tale. Anne Neville herself is an engaging, three-dimensional character with flaws, struggles, triumphs, and strengths, and there is never a question while reading her story that she is worthy of her own novel. The only true downside to this book is that it had to end.
Anne O’Brien’s debut novel is nothing short of an impressive start to what could very possibly evolve into an illustrious writing career. Bravely plunging head-first into what has become a somewhat saturated sub-genre of historical fiction, she expertly carves out her own niche and creates a fresh style, rather than leaving readers feeling as though they’ve read it all before. Managing – in a succinct yet eloquently poetic manner – to bring to life one of history’s more obscure heroines; painting a world of romance and intrigue, while still remaining true to the period in which her characters reside.
“The Virgin Widow” is a story told in the voice of Lady Anne Neville, youngest child of Richard Neville, the Earl of Warick…infamously known in history books as The Kingmaker. A man who was single-handedly responsible for placing Kings on the throne of England as surely as he was responsible for cutting them down. Arguably one of the most influential players in England’s notorious Wars of the Roses…giving Anne (and through her, the audience) a front-row seat to witness a bloody, tumultuous period in history.
The novel itself begins not at the beginning of the Wars, but rather starts at the peak of triumph for the Neville family. King Edward IV is firmly in place on the throne, beloved by all, and The Kingmaker who put him there is beloved and trusted above all others as an advisor. Anne Neville is at this time merely eight years old. Watching the hustle and bustle of her household through the eyes of a child; the important nobility moving through her father’s dining halls even as children from royal houses are sent to live in her home to learn proper etiquette and behavior. And it’s no surprise that at first Anne has an idolized view of her father; seeing him as a man with no equal in prowess or intelligence.
Into this world comes Richard of Gloucester, the younger brother of King Edward. At first Anne doesn’t particularly care for the dark-haired, solemn youth…but as time marches on and the pair grow up together, the inevitable happens as a young romance begins to bloom.
The author manages to do what so few historical authors can; artfully summarizing the passage of years in a matter of a few chapters, rather than bogging her audience down with minute details that would risk boring the senses. O’Brien is able to aptly and efficiently paint a world of harsh realities (particularly for women) and dangerous undercurrents, yet always maintaining the flow of the story. There is never a dull moment; never a page that seems like wasted space.
Readers become aware, quickly, of the fact that even as life for young Anne is beginning to shine as she falls in love for the first time, life for her beloved father is on the decline. His place at court thrown into question by King Edward’s ill-advised marriage to a commoner; an ambitious woman who slowly but surely places her own family at court and as a result displaces, one by one, the Nevilles and all of their carefully won influence.
Anne herself is forced to grow up rapidly; at first offered a glorious, fairy-tale happily ever after when she is betrothed to Richard, the man she loves…only to see that betrothal ripped away when she and the King’s brother are used as pawns in a dangerous game of chess between King Edward and the Earl. Her life is sent careening through one disastrous mistake after another; showing her that not only does a daughter reap the rewards of her father’s triumphs, but she also must suffer for his mistakes. Forcing an understanding that with ambition there is often a heavy price to be paid.
O’Brien, above all else, does an outstanding job of remaining true to Anne’s character throughout everything that transpires in the novel. Not once does it seem she loses sight of just who her narrator is; unafraid to at times bequeath in Anne painfully human flaws, but then also allowing her, as a result, to have other shining moments of stunning sacrifice and courage. Nothing is swept under the rug. There is nothing sugar-coated about the author’s depiction of Lady Anne Neville.
And yet that, more than anything, is what makes this debut novel such a gem.
Anne begins the novel as a young, precocious, somewhat spoiled child. Having grown up surrounded by all the best money can buy. Loved by her mother and her father. Knowing she is destined for a great marriage and an influential life at court. Believing above all else that her father is just and correct in all things. It goes without saying; there are times at the start of the novel where readers may not like Lady Anne very much. But truly…can’t that be said of any adolescent girl? For adolescent she is, and the author isn’t afraid to wallow in that painful phase of growth and development for a while, like pushing on a sore bruise and leaving the audience often cringing and wincing at some of Anne’s behavior.
Yet it works. By allowing readers to see where Anne starts, it makes us appreciate all the more what she grows into as she matures into an intelligent, courageous young woman. Because no matter what her flaws may be, Anne is always endearing. Readers, like Richard of Gloucester himself, cannot help but fall in love with her. And as a result, we weep for her as her world falls apart. Watching as, through her father’s mistakes, she is forced to pay a heavy price. Her pride stripped bare. Her heart crushed as the man she loves is torn away from her. Thrust into a loveless marriage in a foreign land, and all but abused by a vicious and distrustful mother-in-law; a disillusioned child sacrificed by the father she’s always adored in the name of his ambition.
O’Brien allows Anne to overcome her struggles and fight for what she loves in a manner that is dignified, admirable, and tear-worthy…all while remaining in the end true to the era in which she lives. There is never a moment where readers will roll their eyes as the author injects a modern woman’s personality or modern day sentiments into the middle ages. No; for all her intelligence and her pride and her courage, Anne is forced, as all women of her day were, to endure the machinations and the plotting and the scheming of the men in her life. In the end doing the only thing she could by clambering towards the one man who could potentially protect her, and in the end save her and grant her some semblance of freedom.
It’s a beautifully woven tale that reads very, very quickly, with Anne O’Brien easily holding her own against some of the more seasoned historical fiction authors of today. And by choosing a lesser-known character in the stories of the Wars of the Roses, readers are allowed a new perspective on an age-old tale. Anne Neville herself is an engaging, three-dimensional character with flaws, struggles, triumphs, and strengths, and there is never a question while reading her story that she is worthy of her own novel. The only true downside to this book is that it had to end.
July 6, 2018
I really enjoyed this novel! I didn't know much about Anne Neville in history or in fiction. She was portrayed as strong, stubborn, passionate and with a mind of her own. I don't doubt that she caught hell from Queen Margaret--or her petulant son. Also, Richard (future King Richard III) is prominent in this book; I really liked his character in this story.
Will finish review later-
4.5 story, 4 narration
Will finish review later-
4.5 story, 4 narration
August 16, 2023
I went into this open minded as I’ve been hit and miss with the author. Anne Neville’s story is fascinating and this is done so well. This is the first book that I actually liked Richard Plantagenet which surprised me.
September 15, 2024
One of her best
Really loved the story and the style. i already knew the story but she brings it to life as ever. Well worth the read.
Really loved the story and the style. i already knew the story but she brings it to life as ever. Well worth the read.
December 13, 2019
But what about the most intriguing part of her life?
October 31, 2020
Review to follow.
June 29, 2018
Originally posted at Small Review
3.5 stars
I've been trying to read through more of the books I own, and I've owned The Virgin Widow for about four years. For such a large book (hey, for me 400 pages is large!), it was a pretty quick read.
It was also a pretty surface-level read. Which, isn't a bad thing, but it is a little disappointing. Anne O'Brien mostly focuses on events and throws in a few one-note emotions for flavor. Basically, Anne loves Richard. Anne doesn't like admitting that to Richard (this causes misunderstandings). Anne likes her mom. Anne pretty much dislikes everyone else. Her emotions are shared in a very surface-level way without much explanation or depth, but Anne O'Brien makes sure the reader gets it through a lot of repetition. This effectively sorts the characters into the "good guys" and the "bad guys" without much nuance or character development.
The closest O'Brien gets to the type of exploration I'd prefer is with Anne's changing relationship with her father. This was also pretty thinly explored, but at least it was explored and is one of the only instances of Anne actually growing or changing as a person.
I also hated the invented incestuous relationship between Margaret of Anjou and her son. And, really, their entire characterizations. They were clearly the Baddies and Anne O'Brien seemed to relish in making up evil actions for them to engage in. I'm surprised our heroine didn't walk in on the pair cackling evilly over a cauldron. This was embarrassingly awful, but once I accepted it, it was actually kind of fun in an absurd way.
I'm not sure whether to put this in as a good thing or a bad thing, but I couldn't help but picture all the characters as they appeared in the miniseries version of Philippa Gregory's The White Queen. The events follow so closely and the characters are more or less written the same (though, TWQ miniseries had a lot more character depth and development, and that's not saying much). Despite its flaws, I enjoyed the miniseries and was able to get on board with most of the casting, so the association actually enhanced my enjoyment of The Virgin Widow.
I also appreciated how lockstep the characterizations were between this book and the miniseries. I don't think we can actually know for certain how all of these people acted, thought, and felt, but consensus among authors gives the illusion of truth (or plagiarism. Or lack of originality. I'd rather just pretend it's evidence of truth).
As for events, the broad strokes are all pretty much true. There are some tweaks in timing, and don't look too closely at the details, but if you unfocus your eyes and look at the blurry structure of events, it's pretty spot on. You have all the major players and events represented, just with a little mixing, tweaking, and smushing going on. Yes, I realize how absurd that sounds.
Despite its numerous flaws, I couldn't help but enjoy The Virgin Widow. Anne is likable enough and I didn't mind the overly fluffy romance between her and Richard. The story ends before Edward IV dies, so everything is happiness and love for Anne and Richard when we leave them. It was nice.
Bottom line
If the story felt a little false, it was a nice, fluffy kind of false. Look at this more as a romantic novel with a dash of history rather than the reverse. I think I would have been bothered more by The Virgin Widow if I didn't already know enough about the Wars of the Roses to be able to spot the inaccuracies. As it was, I wasn't fooled into "learning" something about history that's wrong (the biggest reason I hate inaccurate historical fiction), and I could just enjoy the romantic spin on what is, to me, an undeniably exciting slice of history.
3.5 stars
I've been trying to read through more of the books I own, and I've owned The Virgin Widow for about four years. For such a large book (hey, for me 400 pages is large!), it was a pretty quick read.
It was also a pretty surface-level read. Which, isn't a bad thing, but it is a little disappointing. Anne O'Brien mostly focuses on events and throws in a few one-note emotions for flavor. Basically, Anne loves Richard. Anne doesn't like admitting that to Richard (this causes misunderstandings). Anne likes her mom. Anne pretty much dislikes everyone else. Her emotions are shared in a very surface-level way without much explanation or depth, but Anne O'Brien makes sure the reader gets it through a lot of repetition. This effectively sorts the characters into the "good guys" and the "bad guys" without much nuance or character development.
The closest O'Brien gets to the type of exploration I'd prefer is with Anne's changing relationship with her father. This was also pretty thinly explored, but at least it was explored and is one of the only instances of Anne actually growing or changing as a person.
I also hated the invented incestuous relationship between Margaret of Anjou and her son. And, really, their entire characterizations. They were clearly the Baddies and Anne O'Brien seemed to relish in making up evil actions for them to engage in. I'm surprised our heroine didn't walk in on the pair cackling evilly over a cauldron. This was embarrassingly awful, but once I accepted it, it was actually kind of fun in an absurd way.
I'm not sure whether to put this in as a good thing or a bad thing, but I couldn't help but picture all the characters as they appeared in the miniseries version of Philippa Gregory's The White Queen. The events follow so closely and the characters are more or less written the same (though, TWQ miniseries had a lot more character depth and development, and that's not saying much). Despite its flaws, I enjoyed the miniseries and was able to get on board with most of the casting, so the association actually enhanced my enjoyment of The Virgin Widow.
I also appreciated how lockstep the characterizations were between this book and the miniseries. I don't think we can actually know for certain how all of these people acted, thought, and felt, but consensus among authors gives the illusion of truth (or plagiarism. Or lack of originality. I'd rather just pretend it's evidence of truth).
As for events, the broad strokes are all pretty much true. There are some tweaks in timing, and don't look too closely at the details, but if you unfocus your eyes and look at the blurry structure of events, it's pretty spot on. You have all the major players and events represented, just with a little mixing, tweaking, and smushing going on. Yes, I realize how absurd that sounds.
Despite its numerous flaws, I couldn't help but enjoy The Virgin Widow. Anne is likable enough and I didn't mind the overly fluffy romance between her and Richard. The story ends before Edward IV dies, so everything is happiness and love for Anne and Richard when we leave them. It was nice.
Bottom line
If the story felt a little false, it was a nice, fluffy kind of false. Look at this more as a romantic novel with a dash of history rather than the reverse. I think I would have been bothered more by The Virgin Widow if I didn't already know enough about the Wars of the Roses to be able to spot the inaccuracies. As it was, I wasn't fooled into "learning" something about history that's wrong (the biggest reason I hate inaccurate historical fiction), and I could just enjoy the romantic spin on what is, to me, an undeniably exciting slice of history.
June 21, 2017
Three and a half stars. This is the Anne Neville I like to read about! This is quite a fun book to read - only a few anachronisms, & a couple of places where historical accuracy took a back seat to plot and readability. I like Anne as a feisty woman with a mind of her own. In reality, we know very little about her and we're unlikely to find out more, unless some hidden treasure trove of historical documents is ever found - which could happen!
We'll never know if Anne and Richard were really "in love", but they had all the ingredients for a successful and happy medieval marriage. They spent several years growing up together in the same household. They were suitable ages for one another and of a similar background. It is absolutely true that no other man available at the time would have been able to secure Anne's half of her inheritance, as Richard did. Did medieval women care about such things? Read "The Paston Letters" - they sure did!
I think the only thing I found a bit annoying about Anne in this novel was her insistence that Richard declare his love for her. It just seemed a little over the top, but I suppose it added to the romance and gave them yet another obstacle to overcome, in case they needed one!
Anyway, for those who might be interested in reading this - if you are just looking for a good historical romance, I think you might enjoy it. There's lots of action and plots of mayhem and yes, romance. If you know the history & like me, you read everything about Anne & Richard, you still might enjoy it but it's not a history book & it's pretty romancey-sexy, so just read it for fun.
In my opinion, this is a much better novel than the Phillipa Gregory novel about Anne - which I can't even remember the name of. There's a lot more period detail in this, and a great deal less annoying use of unrealistic dialogue to explain historical background events. And bonus, Anne is a much richer, warmer, enjoyable character to root for in O'Brien's novel.
I liked it that this book ended with the birth of Anne & Richard's son. I don't know if O'Brien plans a sequel but...if so, please let it end before King Edward dies in 1483. We all know how Anne's story ends, & those last two years of her life were neither romantic nor sexy.
We'll never know if Anne and Richard were really "in love", but they had all the ingredients for a successful and happy medieval marriage. They spent several years growing up together in the same household. They were suitable ages for one another and of a similar background. It is absolutely true that no other man available at the time would have been able to secure Anne's half of her inheritance, as Richard did. Did medieval women care about such things? Read "The Paston Letters" - they sure did!
I think the only thing I found a bit annoying about Anne in this novel was her insistence that Richard declare his love for her. It just seemed a little over the top, but I suppose it added to the romance and gave them yet another obstacle to overcome, in case they needed one!
Anyway, for those who might be interested in reading this - if you are just looking for a good historical romance, I think you might enjoy it. There's lots of action and plots of mayhem and yes, romance. If you know the history & like me, you read everything about Anne & Richard, you still might enjoy it but it's not a history book & it's pretty romancey-sexy, so just read it for fun.
In my opinion, this is a much better novel than the Phillipa Gregory novel about Anne - which I can't even remember the name of. There's a lot more period detail in this, and a great deal less annoying use of unrealistic dialogue to explain historical background events. And bonus, Anne is a much richer, warmer, enjoyable character to root for in O'Brien's novel.
I liked it that this book ended with the birth of Anne & Richard's son. I don't know if O'Brien plans a sequel but...if so, please let it end before King Edward dies in 1483. We all know how Anne's story ends, & those last two years of her life were neither romantic nor sexy.
October 15, 2011
Three and a half stars
The Virgin Widow is a historical romance set during the war of the roses concerning Anne Neville, youngest daughter of the king maker, the Earl of Warwick. We are introduced to a young Anne, at the age of 6, and follow her journey through England and France, as well as, her father’s shifting alliances between the houses of York and Lancaster. Although very much a pawn in these royal intrigues, Anne demonstrates courage, strength and fortitude, as her life takes her from princess to kitchen maid. Throughout her struggles, her heart remains with Richard, youngest brother to King Edward IV. Manipulated by her father, humiliated by Queen Margaret of Anjou and her son Edward of Lancaster, and finally betrayed by her own sister, Anne story is one that deserves to be heard.
There is much to like in O’Brien portrayal of Anne Neville, the material for the story could not be better, as Anne lived a very eventful life. It is quite remarkable, given the nature of Anne’s life that there are not more books written about her. O’Brien gives good detail to the historical period and the story is both captivating and compelling.
My concerns for this book are at the end. The book was great up to the end where it descended from a good historical novel to a ‘does he love me’ romance for far too many pages. Also, the story ends while Anne is only 16, shortly after the birth of her son, when so much more of Anne’s story was left to be written. Anne as a historical character remains waiting to be heard. I wanted to know how she felt upon the sudden death of Edward IV, the missing princes and finally upon her ascension to the throne of England. Perhaps, O’Brien has another book in mind for Anne…
The Virgin Widow is a historical romance set during the war of the roses concerning Anne Neville, youngest daughter of the king maker, the Earl of Warwick. We are introduced to a young Anne, at the age of 6, and follow her journey through England and France, as well as, her father’s shifting alliances between the houses of York and Lancaster. Although very much a pawn in these royal intrigues, Anne demonstrates courage, strength and fortitude, as her life takes her from princess to kitchen maid. Throughout her struggles, her heart remains with Richard, youngest brother to King Edward IV. Manipulated by her father, humiliated by Queen Margaret of Anjou and her son Edward of Lancaster, and finally betrayed by her own sister, Anne story is one that deserves to be heard.
There is much to like in O’Brien portrayal of Anne Neville, the material for the story could not be better, as Anne lived a very eventful life. It is quite remarkable, given the nature of Anne’s life that there are not more books written about her. O’Brien gives good detail to the historical period and the story is both captivating and compelling.
My concerns for this book are at the end. The book was great up to the end where it descended from a good historical novel to a ‘does he love me’ romance for far too many pages. Also, the story ends while Anne is only 16, shortly after the birth of her son, when so much more of Anne’s story was left to be written. Anne as a historical character remains waiting to be heard. I wanted to know how she felt upon the sudden death of Edward IV, the missing princes and finally upon her ascension to the throne of England. Perhaps, O’Brien has another book in mind for Anne…
September 5, 2011
Despite the story being set in historical times, this is first and foremost a romance novel. The story is told through the voice of a very young Anne Neville, so all her idealizations of the various characters, in particular of Richard III, were justified, though rather unbelievable. The romance between Anne and Richard is extremely, well, romantic -- not a blemish of insincerity could be found. While the purity of this love is the one aspect of the book that compelled me to finish the book, I had to constantly remind myself that this was probably the aspect that had the least evidence in history.
I liked the depiction of Anne and Isabel at the beginning of the novel, so very naive and innocent as they should have been at that age. Later on in life, after having endured so much distress under the care of Margaret of Anjou, I would have expected Anne to have matured more.
Her incessant nagging of "does Richard truly love me" was insufferable to say the least. In her position, she should not have questioned his affections, especially since he had seemingly traveled back and forth through England to defend her cause -- it seemed he had all the time in the world to perform both the duties of the King's right-hand man and of Anne's chief supporter. And yet he had to endure Anne's endless questioning of his sincerity, because Anne is so obtuse to believe words speak louder than actions.
All in all, the romance was the highlight of the novel, but the character development was poor. The main character remained juvenile from beginning to end, reducing this book to simply being a teen romance novel, rather than the historical fiction that it could have potentially been.
I liked the depiction of Anne and Isabel at the beginning of the novel, so very naive and innocent as they should have been at that age. Later on in life, after having endured so much distress under the care of Margaret of Anjou, I would have expected Anne to have matured more.
Her incessant nagging of "does Richard truly love me" was insufferable to say the least. In her position, she should not have questioned his affections, especially since he had seemingly traveled back and forth through England to defend her cause -- it seemed he had all the time in the world to perform both the duties of the King's right-hand man and of Anne's chief supporter. And yet he had to endure Anne's endless questioning of his sincerity, because Anne is so obtuse to believe words speak louder than actions.
All in all, the romance was the highlight of the novel, but the character development was poor. The main character remained juvenile from beginning to end, reducing this book to simply being a teen romance novel, rather than the historical fiction that it could have potentially been.
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