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Thorns, Lust and Glory: The betrayal of Anne Boleyn
A queen on the edge.Anne Boleyn has mesmerised the English public for centuries. Her tragic execution, orchestrated by her own husband, never ceases to intrigue. How did this courtier's daughter become the queen of England, and what was it that really tore apart this illustrious marriage, making her the whore of England, an abandoned woman executed on the scaffold? While many stories of Anne Boleyn's downfall have been told, few have truly traced the origins of her tragic fate.
In Thorns, Lust and Glory, Estelle Paranque takes us back to where it all to France, where Anne learned the lessons that would set her on the path to becoming one of England's most infamous queens. At the court of the French king as a resourceful teenage girl, Anne's journey to infamy began, and this landmark biography explores the world that shaped her, and how these loyalties would leave her vulnerable, leading to her ruin at the court of Henry VIII.A fascinating new perspective on Tudor history's most enduring story, Thorns, Lust and Glory is an unmissable account of a queen on the edge.
In Thorns, Lust and Glory, Estelle Paranque takes us back to where it all to France, where Anne learned the lessons that would set her on the path to becoming one of England's most infamous queens. At the court of the French king as a resourceful teenage girl, Anne's journey to infamy began, and this landmark biography explores the world that shaped her, and how these loyalties would leave her vulnerable, leading to her ruin at the court of Henry VIII.A fascinating new perspective on Tudor history's most enduring story, Thorns, Lust and Glory is an unmissable account of a queen on the edge.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published May 2, 2024
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August 27, 2024
I had high hopes for Estelle Paranque's Thorns, Lust, and Glory. I have always wanted to read a book which could shed more light on Anne Boleyn which balances the popular portrait of her while not lionizing her image either. Paranque's book is focused on how Boleyn was betrayed by France while being accessible to general audiences. Unfortunately, I think these aims caused massive problems with the overall narrative.
In Paranque's attempt to make this more exciting for general audiences, she makes three bad choices. First, Paranque states she "recreates" dialogue. Also, the recreated dialogue is not tagged in a way for the reader to know as far as I can tell. I don't know why authors write history instead of historical fiction when they feel the need to create scenes and dialogue. Yes, a historian like Paranque may know the material well enough to guess quite well what people may have said. The simple fact, though, is that we don't know and creating something makes it fiction. This is no longer non-fiction.
The second problem is massive amounts of supposition. To be clear, this is not entirely the author's fault as much of Boleyn's writings were destroyed. However, I started highlighting the sections where the author uses phrases like, "there is no doubt that," or "but surely she must have felt." In a history book, these types of leaps need to be grounded in sound research and common sense. These examples of supposition often did not have a corresponding reference. Yes, it is completely reasonable to assume anyone who saw the Field of Cloth and Gold would be awed because we have enough evidence to make that short leap. It would not, for instance, be safe to assume that because Boleyn filtered information to her father about an ailing queen that she cared about the health of said queen.
The final problem is the framing narrative. Paranque wants to prove, in essence, that Boleyn was betrayed by France due to politics. This is a strange stance to take since in reference to the betrayal of Cardinal Wolsey in this book, Paranque herself writes that there are "no friends in politics." If so, Boleyn wasn't betrayed, it was just politics. Also, in trying to prove this thesis, Boleyn is totally sidelined and robbed of agency in the narrative. Having to explain all the politics of the age means Boleyn herself takes up very little page count in the overall narrative. The space she has is mostly taken up by Paranque projecting onto Boleyn. Boleyn is not given the spotlight needed for the reader to feel for her in her fall from grace.
(Tangent: We do not give Henry VIII credit enough for being the absolute worst. Please look out for my book, Henry VIII: He Sucked So Much and We Need to Talk About it More. Please note I just made that up and I will never write a book because it's really hard.)
As I just said, writing a book is hard with numerous pitfalls. I think Paranque started this with a sincere attempt to re-frame Anne Boleyn's life, but the very thesis required too many diversions and filling in of a lot of blanks. I think if Paranque turned this into historical fiction, she could have produced something much more solid.
(This book was provided as an advance copy by Netgalley and Hachette Books.)
In Paranque's attempt to make this more exciting for general audiences, she makes three bad choices. First, Paranque states she "recreates" dialogue. Also, the recreated dialogue is not tagged in a way for the reader to know as far as I can tell. I don't know why authors write history instead of historical fiction when they feel the need to create scenes and dialogue. Yes, a historian like Paranque may know the material well enough to guess quite well what people may have said. The simple fact, though, is that we don't know and creating something makes it fiction. This is no longer non-fiction.
The second problem is massive amounts of supposition. To be clear, this is not entirely the author's fault as much of Boleyn's writings were destroyed. However, I started highlighting the sections where the author uses phrases like, "there is no doubt that," or "but surely she must have felt." In a history book, these types of leaps need to be grounded in sound research and common sense. These examples of supposition often did not have a corresponding reference. Yes, it is completely reasonable to assume anyone who saw the Field of Cloth and Gold would be awed because we have enough evidence to make that short leap. It would not, for instance, be safe to assume that because Boleyn filtered information to her father about an ailing queen that she cared about the health of said queen.
The final problem is the framing narrative. Paranque wants to prove, in essence, that Boleyn was betrayed by France due to politics. This is a strange stance to take since in reference to the betrayal of Cardinal Wolsey in this book, Paranque herself writes that there are "no friends in politics." If so, Boleyn wasn't betrayed, it was just politics. Also, in trying to prove this thesis, Boleyn is totally sidelined and robbed of agency in the narrative. Having to explain all the politics of the age means Boleyn herself takes up very little page count in the overall narrative. The space she has is mostly taken up by Paranque projecting onto Boleyn. Boleyn is not given the spotlight needed for the reader to feel for her in her fall from grace.
(Tangent: We do not give Henry VIII credit enough for being the absolute worst. Please look out for my book, Henry VIII: He Sucked So Much and We Need to Talk About it More. Please note I just made that up and I will never write a book because it's really hard.)
As I just said, writing a book is hard with numerous pitfalls. I think Paranque started this with a sincere attempt to re-frame Anne Boleyn's life, but the very thesis required too many diversions and filling in of a lot of blanks. I think if Paranque turned this into historical fiction, she could have produced something much more solid.
(This book was provided as an advance copy by Netgalley and Hachette Books.)
August 10, 2024
[I received a review copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.]
Thorns, Lust and Glory: The Betrayal of Anne Boleyn by Estelle Paranque is a highly engaging book that doesn’t quite live up to the presumption of “betrayal” made in the title.
The premise set up in the early pages of Thorns, Lust and Glory: The Betrayal of Anne Boleyn and explored throughout the book is admittedly somewhat blurry: the general idea is that Anne was "betrayed" by the French who refused to take a stand against Rome in favor of supporting England, Henry VIII and her marriage.
The book later fleshes out this idea, positing that this was a “betrayal” because Anne was essentially a "French princess," that she had been acting in French interests after her rise in England, and thus the refusal of the French king and court to support England over Rome and step in when Anne herself was arrested was specifically a betrayal against Anne Boleyn herself.
While Paranque explores what we do know of Anne's connections to France (which continued after she left England, to at last some degree) and discusses at length the political and diplomatic schemes, plots and pleadings involved in the various attempts to gain French support for Henry VIII’s annulment and remarriage, I don't feel that the general thesis was actually supported by this presented evidence.
Yes, Anne served in the court of France for some years. Yes, Anne entertained French ambassadors, and went with Henry to France in their bid to get Francis' support for their marriage. Yes, the French sent various diplomats at various times to attempt to drum up support for Henry VIII’s will on the matter of his marriage(s).
But nothing written about in this book supports this idea that Anne was acting in French interests, that she was--as Paranque writes numerous times in the book--essentially a "French princess," nor that the French’s actions could be viewed as as a “betrayal” against Anne Boleyn.
Paranque writes in her introduction that, “Some dialogue has been re-created from primary sources and perhaps I have also allowed myself more speculative claims that again are based on primary evidence, but rely evidently on my own judgment and appreciation of them.”
In regards to the dialogue being primary sources repurposed, it’s not something I like to see done in non-fiction without the author admitting that they are putting letters into a different context at the moment.
Otherwise, readers are left to wonder: is what I’m reading an accurate representation of this primary source? Was the original primary source a letter, which has been spun into a piece of dialogue? Did the primary source use these exact words? What does recreated mean, here?
While it may make the book more readable, it makes the final understanding of the history fuzzier, and thus not something I want to rely on when learning about Anne Boleyn or these events.
Speculation is inherent when writing about history, especially a figure like Anne Boleyn where there are shockingly few traces of her thoughts and feelings, but the speculation in the book often goes too far.
There is a difference between, for instance, suggesting that a young Anne would have surely been impressed by royal spectacle witnessed as a lady-in-waiting to the French queen and what Paranque does repeatedly throughout this work, which is connect basic events ("Anne witnessed this spectacle while serving in France") and leap to vaster conclusions.
For instance, Paranque writes, after exploring the brief courtship between Henry Percy and Anne Boleyn, that Anne was "buoyed with confidence from her years in France, and what she had learned from the royal women there, she felt ready for whatever might be in store. Secretly, she prayed for glory."
Did she? When? What about Anne's reaction (which is to say--we don't know it!) to the ending of her courtship with Percy, or anything at all from this period, suggests that she was secretly praying for glory? Suggesting that perhaps she admired the powerful women at the French court is one thing, but writing at this stage that she secretly prayed for glory is an entirely different level of speculation.
Although I don’t really agree with the basic premise of the book and I don’t think there was any great revelation made here regarding Anne being “betrayed” by France, I did appreciate some of the smaller details that Paranque was able to uncover regarding Anne’s time in France, along with more detailed information about the movement of diplomats in regards to the “marriage problem” of Henry VIII.
I think that many popular portrayals about the marriage forget just how long it took for decisions to be made, just how many politicians, courtiers and clergymen were tasked with trying to resolve the king’s “question” of his marriage; all these moving parts, at least in regards to France, are covered here in a way that is easy to understand.
Paranque’s writing is very engaging as well, even when the book is covering what might otherwise be a bit of a slog to get through. Sometimes I felt like I was listening to someone speak passionately about a subject they were invested in, which makes for easier reading when it comes to non-fiction. You can tell that Paranque has a strong passion for Anne Boleyn and respect for what she endured in her final days.
Although I don’t think the book lives up to the premise that Anne was “betrayed” by the French, I do think the book is worth a look if you’re interested in more of the behind-the-scenes diplomatic details regarding Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn. The book does contain more actual primary sources (versus speculation about what Anne surely must have felt or done) when it comes to these diplomatic missions, so that is one of the stronger areas of the book.
Thorns, Lust and Glory: The Betrayal of Anne Boleyn by Estelle Paranque is a highly engaging book that doesn’t quite live up to the presumption of “betrayal” made in the title.
The premise set up in the early pages of Thorns, Lust and Glory: The Betrayal of Anne Boleyn and explored throughout the book is admittedly somewhat blurry: the general idea is that Anne was "betrayed" by the French who refused to take a stand against Rome in favor of supporting England, Henry VIII and her marriage.
The book later fleshes out this idea, positing that this was a “betrayal” because Anne was essentially a "French princess," that she had been acting in French interests after her rise in England, and thus the refusal of the French king and court to support England over Rome and step in when Anne herself was arrested was specifically a betrayal against Anne Boleyn herself.
While Paranque explores what we do know of Anne's connections to France (which continued after she left England, to at last some degree) and discusses at length the political and diplomatic schemes, plots and pleadings involved in the various attempts to gain French support for Henry VIII’s annulment and remarriage, I don't feel that the general thesis was actually supported by this presented evidence.
Yes, Anne served in the court of France for some years. Yes, Anne entertained French ambassadors, and went with Henry to France in their bid to get Francis' support for their marriage. Yes, the French sent various diplomats at various times to attempt to drum up support for Henry VIII’s will on the matter of his marriage(s).
But nothing written about in this book supports this idea that Anne was acting in French interests, that she was--as Paranque writes numerous times in the book--essentially a "French princess," nor that the French’s actions could be viewed as as a “betrayal” against Anne Boleyn.
Paranque writes in her introduction that, “Some dialogue has been re-created from primary sources and perhaps I have also allowed myself more speculative claims that again are based on primary evidence, but rely evidently on my own judgment and appreciation of them.”
In regards to the dialogue being primary sources repurposed, it’s not something I like to see done in non-fiction without the author admitting that they are putting letters into a different context at the moment.
Otherwise, readers are left to wonder: is what I’m reading an accurate representation of this primary source? Was the original primary source a letter, which has been spun into a piece of dialogue? Did the primary source use these exact words? What does recreated mean, here?
While it may make the book more readable, it makes the final understanding of the history fuzzier, and thus not something I want to rely on when learning about Anne Boleyn or these events.
Speculation is inherent when writing about history, especially a figure like Anne Boleyn where there are shockingly few traces of her thoughts and feelings, but the speculation in the book often goes too far.
There is a difference between, for instance, suggesting that a young Anne would have surely been impressed by royal spectacle witnessed as a lady-in-waiting to the French queen and what Paranque does repeatedly throughout this work, which is connect basic events ("Anne witnessed this spectacle while serving in France") and leap to vaster conclusions.
For instance, Paranque writes, after exploring the brief courtship between Henry Percy and Anne Boleyn, that Anne was "buoyed with confidence from her years in France, and what she had learned from the royal women there, she felt ready for whatever might be in store. Secretly, she prayed for glory."
Did she? When? What about Anne's reaction (which is to say--we don't know it!) to the ending of her courtship with Percy, or anything at all from this period, suggests that she was secretly praying for glory? Suggesting that perhaps she admired the powerful women at the French court is one thing, but writing at this stage that she secretly prayed for glory is an entirely different level of speculation.
Although I don’t really agree with the basic premise of the book and I don’t think there was any great revelation made here regarding Anne being “betrayed” by France, I did appreciate some of the smaller details that Paranque was able to uncover regarding Anne’s time in France, along with more detailed information about the movement of diplomats in regards to the “marriage problem” of Henry VIII.
I think that many popular portrayals about the marriage forget just how long it took for decisions to be made, just how many politicians, courtiers and clergymen were tasked with trying to resolve the king’s “question” of his marriage; all these moving parts, at least in regards to France, are covered here in a way that is easy to understand.
Paranque’s writing is very engaging as well, even when the book is covering what might otherwise be a bit of a slog to get through. Sometimes I felt like I was listening to someone speak passionately about a subject they were invested in, which makes for easier reading when it comes to non-fiction. You can tell that Paranque has a strong passion for Anne Boleyn and respect for what she endured in her final days.
Although I don’t think the book lives up to the premise that Anne was “betrayed” by the French, I do think the book is worth a look if you’re interested in more of the behind-the-scenes diplomatic details regarding Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn. The book does contain more actual primary sources (versus speculation about what Anne surely must have felt or done) when it comes to these diplomatic missions, so that is one of the stronger areas of the book.
May 8, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and Hachette Books for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my review. All opinions are my own.
This book taught me a lot about Anne Boleyn that I wasn't aware of before and, overall, I enjoyed it. Throughout the book, I felt very immersed in the time period and places the figures were in because of Estelle Paranque's descriptive and detailed writing. It's very apparent this book has been well researched through the amount of detail, quotes, and correspondence incorporated throughout the book.
I read Paranque's other book about Catherine de Medici and Elizabeth I last year and enjoyed that one as well. My personal recommendation is to read this book first before Blood Fire & Gold because, chronologically, this book is set earlier and lays the foundation for the events that happen in Blood Fire & Gold. I think, if you read this book before her other book, it will enhance your enjoyment and understanding.
The only times I had been introduced to the story of Anne Boleyn was briefly in High School and through the musical, SIX. I loved how this book completely changed my perspective on Anne and expanded her beyond mistress and more into the image of a political figure and an influence on the affairs in Europe.
All that being said, I do have some criticisms of this book. These criticisms do not impact my view of the author as I can't imagine how hard it was to find credible sources to create this book already:
- I felt that the reader didn't get as close to Anne as they did to Elizabeth and Catherine in her previous book. I think that distance felt larger because of the lack of direct sources and quotes from her (like I said above, though, I understand that might not be possible to find). The gap between the reader and Anne felt larger when the reader was constantly reminded that Anne "was there" or "witnessed" and event. This caused the book to feel more centered around Henry, Francis, and Charles since we were mainly reading from the perspective of their ambassadors or the Kings themselves.
- Another thing is that I feel we didn't get a lot of information on the development or even the beginning of Henry and Anne's relationship. It felt like a bit of a time jump from being in the vicinity of one other to trying to get Henry divorced and all the politics happening there.
Overall, I enjoyed my time reading this book and would recommend it to anyone who is interested in History but also someone who is curious about trying to get into more historical non-fiction. I am looking forward to seeing what this author will be writing about next!
This book taught me a lot about Anne Boleyn that I wasn't aware of before and, overall, I enjoyed it. Throughout the book, I felt very immersed in the time period and places the figures were in because of Estelle Paranque's descriptive and detailed writing. It's very apparent this book has been well researched through the amount of detail, quotes, and correspondence incorporated throughout the book.
I read Paranque's other book about Catherine de Medici and Elizabeth I last year and enjoyed that one as well. My personal recommendation is to read this book first before Blood Fire & Gold because, chronologically, this book is set earlier and lays the foundation for the events that happen in Blood Fire & Gold. I think, if you read this book before her other book, it will enhance your enjoyment and understanding.
The only times I had been introduced to the story of Anne Boleyn was briefly in High School and through the musical, SIX. I loved how this book completely changed my perspective on Anne and expanded her beyond mistress and more into the image of a political figure and an influence on the affairs in Europe.
All that being said, I do have some criticisms of this book. These criticisms do not impact my view of the author as I can't imagine how hard it was to find credible sources to create this book already:
- I felt that the reader didn't get as close to Anne as they did to Elizabeth and Catherine in her previous book. I think that distance felt larger because of the lack of direct sources and quotes from her (like I said above, though, I understand that might not be possible to find). The gap between the reader and Anne felt larger when the reader was constantly reminded that Anne "was there" or "witnessed" and event. This caused the book to feel more centered around Henry, Francis, and Charles since we were mainly reading from the perspective of their ambassadors or the Kings themselves.
- Another thing is that I feel we didn't get a lot of information on the development or even the beginning of Henry and Anne's relationship. It felt like a bit of a time jump from being in the vicinity of one other to trying to get Henry divorced and all the politics happening there.
Overall, I enjoyed my time reading this book and would recommend it to anyone who is interested in History but also someone who is curious about trying to get into more historical non-fiction. I am looking forward to seeing what this author will be writing about next!
May 20, 2024
This book takes a deep dive into a part of Anne Boleyn’s life that is often overlooked: her formative years at the French royal court, and how the time spent there helped influence and shape the woman and queen she would later become. Estelle Paranque draws on many different sources to help tell the story of Anne’s early life, and highlight how her time in France helped send her down the path to becoming Queen of England, and how it also played a part in her downfall and execution. It is always refreshing to read a new take on a well known subject, and this book offers up plenty of fresh and exciting insights into this most famous of historical figures. I found it utterly fascinating, and enjoyed every single page of it.
May 20, 2024
One of the best books about Anne Boleyn! I am obsessed with Anne Boleyn, and I will buy anything that has Anne Boleyn on the cover. Estelle has captured Anne’s personality, and translates it beautifully onto page. This book shows a different perspective of Anne’s life, focusing on Anne’s upbringing in France, and how she always showed support to France as a rising courtier and then Queen of England. A superb book, and one I will love forever!
May 4, 2024
Thank you @hachettebooks and @netgalley for the eARC of Thorns, Lust, and Glory: The Betrayal of Anne Boleyn by Estelle Paranque in exchange for an honest review.
📖📖 Book Review 📖📖 Two years ago, I told my daughter I would buy her tickets to see Six the Musical if she did a report on the wives on Henry VIII. Five months later, we stayed the night at Anne Boelyn’s childhood home, Hever Castle, and did a fun deep dive into Tudor history around London. Anne Boelyn is a fascinating figure in history who is often misunderstood and misrepresented. Estelle Paranque set out to write a relatable account of Anne Boelyn’s life and she certainly achieved this goal, writing a beautiful and captivating book that provides a new opportunity to get to know Henry’s second wife. While this book is indeed a biography, it reads as a novel that invites the reader to enjoy her history in a truly immersive storytelling experience. Even those who are familiar with Anne Boleyn and her fascinating life will learn a plethora of new information from this masterfully written biography.
📖📖 Book Review 📖📖 Two years ago, I told my daughter I would buy her tickets to see Six the Musical if she did a report on the wives on Henry VIII. Five months later, we stayed the night at Anne Boelyn’s childhood home, Hever Castle, and did a fun deep dive into Tudor history around London. Anne Boelyn is a fascinating figure in history who is often misunderstood and misrepresented. Estelle Paranque set out to write a relatable account of Anne Boelyn’s life and she certainly achieved this goal, writing a beautiful and captivating book that provides a new opportunity to get to know Henry’s second wife. While this book is indeed a biography, it reads as a novel that invites the reader to enjoy her history in a truly immersive storytelling experience. Even those who are familiar with Anne Boleyn and her fascinating life will learn a plethora of new information from this masterfully written biography.
May 20, 2024
I absolutely loved this. I found Paranque's focus on contemporary European politics and the role they played in the rise and fall of Anne to be insightful and new. I feel like there's not much any more that can surprise me when reading about this period, but this was wonderful.
May 15, 2024
Estelle Paranque’s book Thorns, Lust, and Glory, the Betrayal of Anne Boleyn focuses on how the rise of Henry VIII’s most famous queen had a surprise set of players helping along; The French and their king, Francis I. Paranque begins with Anne’s youth abroad in Europe and the events she would have been apart of or witnessed even if history did not directly name her there.
Francis I first encounters the young Anne as she becomes a maid in waiting to his wife Claude. While there are no sources that show any direct interactions with the king, this is where Anne’s fondness for the French begins. Paranque weaves a story of how because of how the French in many ways assisted Anne to ascending to the crown she would take and sadly hold onto for just a few years.
My biggest concern with this book is that it didn’t feel like it was focused on Anne, more so on the political players of the day. If you are looking for a book that focuses strictly on the famous queen, you may want to look elsewhere. However, that said, I would recommend this to anyone interested in a Tudor history, politics as well as anyone looking for a different perspective on the meteoric rise of Anne Boleyn.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hachette Books for the Advanced Reader Copy
Francis I first encounters the young Anne as she becomes a maid in waiting to his wife Claude. While there are no sources that show any direct interactions with the king, this is where Anne’s fondness for the French begins. Paranque weaves a story of how because of how the French in many ways assisted Anne to ascending to the crown she would take and sadly hold onto for just a few years.
My biggest concern with this book is that it didn’t feel like it was focused on Anne, more so on the political players of the day. If you are looking for a book that focuses strictly on the famous queen, you may want to look elsewhere. However, that said, I would recommend this to anyone interested in a Tudor history, politics as well as anyone looking for a different perspective on the meteoric rise of Anne Boleyn.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hachette Books for the Advanced Reader Copy
June 18, 2024
Where to begin with this book? If you have never read anything about the wives of Henry VIII and you run across this book, it might pique your interest and lead you to better books (or not...). If you've already read those better books, this one is going to be hard to swallow.
Paranque's thesis seems to be that, as she states at one point, Anne was "practically a French princess," and that the main thing that was important to her in her role as favorite and then queen was to promote the interests of France. Furthermore, ultimately she was betrayed by the French for whom she'd done so much work over the course of ten years in Henry's favor, when they not only stepped back from an English alliance, but also didn't sufficiently support the English appeals to Rome over her marriage and didn't speak up for her when she was framed and railroaded to the block. Not only this, she was essentially an English spy at the heart of the French court during her teen years.
I have problems with all of this. While Anne spent nearly ten years being educated in French courts and gaining a polish of French culture that made her interesting and exotic at home, I doubt she was ever allowed by her father (a prominent English ambassador to France) to forget she was English and her life was going to be in England - whether or not he was using her as his spy in the queen's household. While she always felt an affinity for France thereafter, I don't believe that she saw her role at the heart of the English monarchy as the promotion of French interests.
The book's main focus is the political climate in Europe between 1514 and 1536, with France, the Holy Roman Empire/Spain, and the pope jockeying for position and England trying to find ways to play a role. This is interesting, but the purpose to which it is being used (to prove Anne was a French asset) rings false and you are left wondering what to do with all the details. The thing I gained from this is that Henry's insistence on going his own way and separating from Rome was more dangerous than I'd previously appreciated, and threw the balance of power into greater chaos. It didn't make me believe that the great betrayal of Anne came from France.
Paranque also has an annoying habit of taking quotations from diplomatic and state papers, writing them up as conversation, and modernizing some of the idioms to the point of anachronism. Nobody in 16th century England would have said Henry "moved in with" his mistress. It's hard to know what's real and what is made up, in such a context. The book also needs an aggressive copy edit that it apparently hasn't yet received - there are a few sentences that just do not make sense, some where you can tell the wording was changed without deleting the prior wording, and at least one hilarious reference to "Henry XVIII." I hope this is all fixed up in the final version.
If you have an interest in Anne Boleyn, I suggest looking at the Anne Boleyn Files online blog, and biting the bullet and reading Eric Ives, whose books on Anne are much better written and balanced. Or read a historical novel. This book tries to be a little of both, and manages to be neither.
Thanks to NetGalley for giving me an opportunity to read an advance galley of this book.
Paranque's thesis seems to be that, as she states at one point, Anne was "practically a French princess," and that the main thing that was important to her in her role as favorite and then queen was to promote the interests of France. Furthermore, ultimately she was betrayed by the French for whom she'd done so much work over the course of ten years in Henry's favor, when they not only stepped back from an English alliance, but also didn't sufficiently support the English appeals to Rome over her marriage and didn't speak up for her when she was framed and railroaded to the block. Not only this, she was essentially an English spy at the heart of the French court during her teen years.
I have problems with all of this. While Anne spent nearly ten years being educated in French courts and gaining a polish of French culture that made her interesting and exotic at home, I doubt she was ever allowed by her father (a prominent English ambassador to France) to forget she was English and her life was going to be in England - whether or not he was using her as his spy in the queen's household. While she always felt an affinity for France thereafter, I don't believe that she saw her role at the heart of the English monarchy as the promotion of French interests.
The book's main focus is the political climate in Europe between 1514 and 1536, with France, the Holy Roman Empire/Spain, and the pope jockeying for position and England trying to find ways to play a role. This is interesting, but the purpose to which it is being used (to prove Anne was a French asset) rings false and you are left wondering what to do with all the details. The thing I gained from this is that Henry's insistence on going his own way and separating from Rome was more dangerous than I'd previously appreciated, and threw the balance of power into greater chaos. It didn't make me believe that the great betrayal of Anne came from France.
Paranque also has an annoying habit of taking quotations from diplomatic and state papers, writing them up as conversation, and modernizing some of the idioms to the point of anachronism. Nobody in 16th century England would have said Henry "moved in with" his mistress. It's hard to know what's real and what is made up, in such a context. The book also needs an aggressive copy edit that it apparently hasn't yet received - there are a few sentences that just do not make sense, some where you can tell the wording was changed without deleting the prior wording, and at least one hilarious reference to "Henry XVIII." I hope this is all fixed up in the final version.
If you have an interest in Anne Boleyn, I suggest looking at the Anne Boleyn Files online blog, and biting the bullet and reading Eric Ives, whose books on Anne are much better written and balanced. Or read a historical novel. This book tries to be a little of both, and manages to be neither.
Thanks to NetGalley for giving me an opportunity to read an advance galley of this book.
June 19, 2024
"Thorns, Lust and Glory: The Betrayal of Anne Boleyn" delves deep into one of history's most intriguing and controversial figures, Anne Boleyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII. Written by Estelle Paranque, the book meticulously explores Anne's rise to power, her impact on the English court, and ultimately, her tragic downfall. Through a blend of historical accounts and compelling narrative, Estelle Paranque paints a vivid portrait of a woman caught in the tumultuous politics and intrigues of the Tudor court.
Pros:
Historical Detail: The book is rich in historical detail, offering a comprehensive view of Anne Boleyn's life and the political landscape of 16th-century England.
Narrative Style: Estelle Paranque skillfully weaves together historical facts with engaging storytelling, making complex events and characters accessible to readers.
Character Depth: Anne Boleyn is portrayed as a multifaceted figure, not just as Henry VIII's queen but as a woman of ambition, intelligence, and resilience.
Insightful Analysis: The author provides insightful analysis into the motivations of key players, including Anne herself, Henry VIII, and Thomas Cromwell, shedding light on their decisions and actions.
Cons:
Bias: At times, the narrative leans towards a sympathetic portrayal of Anne Boleyn, potentially overlooking some of the controversies and debates surrounding her character and actions.
Complexity: The intricate political and religious landscape of the Tudor era may be overwhelming for readers unfamiliar with the period, requiring a basic understanding of English history.
Conclusion:
"Thorns, Lust and Glory: The Betrayal of Anne Boleyn" is a captivating exploration of one of history's most enigmatic figures. Estelle Paranque succeeds in bringing Anne Boleyn to life, offering readers a compelling narrative filled with intrigue, ambition, and tragedy. While the book's sympathetic portrayal of Anne may not satisfy all historical purists, its meticulous research and engaging storytelling make it a worthwhile read for anyone fascinated by Tudor history and the complexities of power.
Pros:
Historical Detail: The book is rich in historical detail, offering a comprehensive view of Anne Boleyn's life and the political landscape of 16th-century England.
Narrative Style: Estelle Paranque skillfully weaves together historical facts with engaging storytelling, making complex events and characters accessible to readers.
Character Depth: Anne Boleyn is portrayed as a multifaceted figure, not just as Henry VIII's queen but as a woman of ambition, intelligence, and resilience.
Insightful Analysis: The author provides insightful analysis into the motivations of key players, including Anne herself, Henry VIII, and Thomas Cromwell, shedding light on their decisions and actions.
Cons:
Bias: At times, the narrative leans towards a sympathetic portrayal of Anne Boleyn, potentially overlooking some of the controversies and debates surrounding her character and actions.
Complexity: The intricate political and religious landscape of the Tudor era may be overwhelming for readers unfamiliar with the period, requiring a basic understanding of English history.
Conclusion:
"Thorns, Lust and Glory: The Betrayal of Anne Boleyn" is a captivating exploration of one of history's most enigmatic figures. Estelle Paranque succeeds in bringing Anne Boleyn to life, offering readers a compelling narrative filled with intrigue, ambition, and tragedy. While the book's sympathetic portrayal of Anne may not satisfy all historical purists, its meticulous research and engaging storytelling make it a worthwhile read for anyone fascinated by Tudor history and the complexities of power.
July 22, 2024
I think the ‘what if’ might be more interesting than yet another rehash of the life of Anne Boleyn who continues to usurp her predecessor even to this day as if she didn’t take enough from her during Catherine’s life she’s more popular now is Anne than she was even at the time of Henry’s bigamy for such he was since Catherine lived still and he and Anne were married while he remained married to Catherine making him possibly the first Christian to have more than one wife at the same time though not the last. Who would have been heir to the English throne if Henry had died of his injuries following his accident in the tilt yard? Not Anne necessarily, Mary would have contested that having prior right through her connections with Catherine of Aragon and having royal blood which Elizabeth did not and neither did her mother. Yet would the English people have been willing to have a young queen at their head They eventually had no choice but back then? it is irrelevant since it never happened but it’s an interesting thought. In any case, this book isn’t a bad study of Anne’s life at the French court and her ambition to become queen of England though queen of anywhere would have suited her since she really didn’t care where as long as it was somewhere or that’s the impression I get from reading between the lines. Anne was ambitious and possibly something of a sociopath out for herself and to hell with anyone else that stood in her way though we tend to lose sight of the real Anne as we strive to find reasons to like her but was she likable? I’m not sure. In any case, this book might make your mind up if you too are not sure.
May 19, 2024
Thorns, Lust, and Glory: The Betrayal of Anne Boleyn by Estelle Paranque is a fascinating book that delves further into the tragic end of the infamous Queen.
I have read quite a few nonfiction and fictional novels involving Anne Boleyn along with Tudor history. This book delves into some of the factors and players that helped influence Anne, those around her, and what culminated into the sad end of Henry VIII’s second Queen.
The author first starts with her life in France including some of her influences (external and internal) and then proceeds from there.
Yes, this book revolves around Anne, but for the reader to completely understand a lot of the steps that make up the sequence that lead to her demise, she had to include her surroundings: personal, political, and societal. She pulls from many sources, and has her work cut out for her, as I am sure it is more difficult to obtain history from the women and those that are conquered vs the conquerors.
I am impressed with the way that she was able to present all these factors in a nonfiction that reads, at times, like fiction, and flows well.
I truly enjoyed it.
4.5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Hachette Books for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 11/12/24.
I have read quite a few nonfiction and fictional novels involving Anne Boleyn along with Tudor history. This book delves into some of the factors and players that helped influence Anne, those around her, and what culminated into the sad end of Henry VIII’s second Queen.
The author first starts with her life in France including some of her influences (external and internal) and then proceeds from there.
Yes, this book revolves around Anne, but for the reader to completely understand a lot of the steps that make up the sequence that lead to her demise, she had to include her surroundings: personal, political, and societal. She pulls from many sources, and has her work cut out for her, as I am sure it is more difficult to obtain history from the women and those that are conquered vs the conquerors.
I am impressed with the way that she was able to present all these factors in a nonfiction that reads, at times, like fiction, and flows well.
I truly enjoyed it.
4.5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Hachette Books for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 11/12/24.
May 5, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley for the DRC. All thoughts are my own.
This is a must read for all Anne Boleyn fans.
I’ve read many biographies on Anne Boleyn, including Eric Ives The Life and Death of a Anne Boleyn. This is a great addition and excellent companion biography to Ives.Estelle paranque paints a vivid picture of a complex family. There is a lot of information throughout, and the narrative doesn’t feel academic, but is presented in a professional and organized manner. The Author adds a much needed feminine lens to Anne Boleyn’s biographers without making the reader feel like she’s inserting a pro Boleyn bias. Paranque puts Anne o. Display. Flaws and All.
At times, the reader may feel they are with Anne in her successes and darkest hours. The writing is immersive, and not textbook that will have you falling asleep at your desk.
She reminds you that Anne was a complex person; and oftentimes circumstances were out of her control allowing the reader to contemplate Anne’s feelings.
Even Anne’s harshest critics would have difficulty not feeling for the ill fated second wife of Henry VIII.
This is a must read for all Anne Boleyn fans.
I’ve read many biographies on Anne Boleyn, including Eric Ives The Life and Death of a Anne Boleyn. This is a great addition and excellent companion biography to Ives.Estelle paranque paints a vivid picture of a complex family. There is a lot of information throughout, and the narrative doesn’t feel academic, but is presented in a professional and organized manner. The Author adds a much needed feminine lens to Anne Boleyn’s biographers without making the reader feel like she’s inserting a pro Boleyn bias. Paranque puts Anne o. Display. Flaws and All.
At times, the reader may feel they are with Anne in her successes and darkest hours. The writing is immersive, and not textbook that will have you falling asleep at your desk.
She reminds you that Anne was a complex person; and oftentimes circumstances were out of her control allowing the reader to contemplate Anne’s feelings.
Even Anne’s harshest critics would have difficulty not feeling for the ill fated second wife of Henry VIII.
May 23, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Hachette books for sending me an ARC of this book for review.
I’ll be honest here, I deeply struggled with part 1 of this book. Though this may have been my fault requesting this book when I generally read fantasy/fiction but part one was very textbook. I got so lost with everyone’s name and locations. However in part 2 it started to pick up. It started reading more like a fun fiction novel but better than that because I was actually learning things. Overall this was enjoyable I just needed to adjust to the writing.
While I understand the background information on everyone and their relationships and connections is important and explain how Anne got to where she was (and then wasn’t), I still wish that it focused more around her. BUT I’m not super well versed on the topic so again this could be all that is known because this definitely had a lot of work put into it. Very well thought out. There’s a lot of moving parts with this and I started to take notes part way through. I feel smarter so I appreciate the opportunity!
I’ll be honest here, I deeply struggled with part 1 of this book. Though this may have been my fault requesting this book when I generally read fantasy/fiction but part one was very textbook. I got so lost with everyone’s name and locations. However in part 2 it started to pick up. It started reading more like a fun fiction novel but better than that because I was actually learning things. Overall this was enjoyable I just needed to adjust to the writing.
While I understand the background information on everyone and their relationships and connections is important and explain how Anne got to where she was (and then wasn’t), I still wish that it focused more around her. BUT I’m not super well versed on the topic so again this could be all that is known because this definitely had a lot of work put into it. Very well thought out. There’s a lot of moving parts with this and I started to take notes part way through. I feel smarter so I appreciate the opportunity!
June 22, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley, Estelle Paranque, and Hachette Books for allowing me to read an advanced copy of Thorns, Lust, and Glory: The Betrayal of Anne Boleyn. I received an advanced reader copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I have read a lot of books regarding the Tudors, most have been about Anne Boleyn specifically. This is the first one that I have read which delved so deeply into her time in France. Usually, this point of her life is briefly mentioned and then it jumps to her life at court in England. I really loved this information being included because it helps the reader understand how she became the woman that she did. Her adulthood was greatly influenced by her formative years in France.
Everything about her timeline was presented with great organization. It was very obvious that a lot of research was done to shape this book. I could not find fault with anything. This was my first time reading a book written by Estelle Paranque and I will now try to find more by her.
I have read a lot of books regarding the Tudors, most have been about Anne Boleyn specifically. This is the first one that I have read which delved so deeply into her time in France. Usually, this point of her life is briefly mentioned and then it jumps to her life at court in England. I really loved this information being included because it helps the reader understand how she became the woman that she did. Her adulthood was greatly influenced by her formative years in France.
Everything about her timeline was presented with great organization. It was very obvious that a lot of research was done to shape this book. I could not find fault with anything. This was my first time reading a book written by Estelle Paranque and I will now try to find more by her.
July 5, 2024
For centuries, Anne Boleyn has fascinated many, due to her rise from courtier's daughter to the Queen of England and to her tragic execution. Many have written on her life as Queen and her downfall; however, writings of her origins have been few.
In Thorns, Lust and Glory, Estelle Paranque elaborates on Anne Boleyn's formative years in the French royal court and its influence on her. Paranque focuses on the political climate, as well as the ramifications, in Europe during Henry VIII's pursuit of Anne. Additionally, Paranque focuses on how Anne's own loyalties and French connections leave her vulnerable; thus, leading to her ruin and execution.
Paranque has taken a new approach in addressing Anne Boleyn. Paranque does not elaborate on Anne's execution, a subject that has been overly discussed, but instead provides insight into the aspects that lead to Anne's execution. Paranque has provided a fascinating perspective into Henry VIII's Tudor court, as well as the political climate surrounding Anne Boleyn's rise and fall. A refreshing new take on Anne Boleyn.
In Thorns, Lust and Glory, Estelle Paranque elaborates on Anne Boleyn's formative years in the French royal court and its influence on her. Paranque focuses on the political climate, as well as the ramifications, in Europe during Henry VIII's pursuit of Anne. Additionally, Paranque focuses on how Anne's own loyalties and French connections leave her vulnerable; thus, leading to her ruin and execution.
Paranque has taken a new approach in addressing Anne Boleyn. Paranque does not elaborate on Anne's execution, a subject that has been overly discussed, but instead provides insight into the aspects that lead to Anne's execution. Paranque has provided a fascinating perspective into Henry VIII's Tudor court, as well as the political climate surrounding Anne Boleyn's rise and fall. A refreshing new take on Anne Boleyn.
August 10, 2024
Thorns, Lust and Glory attempts to delve into the emotional landscape of one of history's most enigmatic figures. While the concept is intriguing, the execution leaves much to be desired. The book doesn't introduce any fresh insights into Anne Boleyn's story, relying instead on speculative interpretations of her emotions. Unfortunately, the middle section drags, losing momentum and focus. The writing style, reminiscent of a university term paper, lacks the polish and depth expected from a seasoned historical author. Overall, it’s a read that may interest Anne Boleyn enthusiasts, but it falls short of offering anything truly groundbreaking.
August 16, 2024
I received this as an ARC from Netgalley.com.
I have heard Estelle speak on several podcasts about her books but so far this is the first one I have read. She is passionate about her research and the women she studies. It is easy to tell how much she cares and how deeply she researches to find out new and interesting tidbits that may have been overlooked in the past. This was an interesting look into the French perspective on the King's Great Matter and Anne Boleyn becoming Queen of England. I would highly recommend this to anybody who loves Tudor history and Anne Boleyn.
I have heard Estelle speak on several podcasts about her books but so far this is the first one I have read. She is passionate about her research and the women she studies. It is easy to tell how much she cares and how deeply she researches to find out new and interesting tidbits that may have been overlooked in the past. This was an interesting look into the French perspective on the King's Great Matter and Anne Boleyn becoming Queen of England. I would highly recommend this to anybody who loves Tudor history and Anne Boleyn.
August 13, 2024
Really enjoyed this book. So informative, detailed, and descriptive with meticulous research but compiling it all in a way that was enlightening while piquing your curiosity.
Thank you Netgalley and Hachette Books for the digital arc!
Thank you Netgalley and Hachette Books for the digital arc!
May 10, 2024
I’ve always been fascinated by Anne Boleyn and the tudors this is a marvellous read which has fed my addiction
Read
June 21, 2024Using this to inform a future university module on Tudor Women.
July 11, 2024
Did not expect that ending!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 20, 2024
I really loved this book! It was easy to follow and understand and very interesting
May 25, 2024
Thank you Netgalley for an advanced copy!
This. Was. Awesome.
I love it when historians dig down into the primary records (bypassing all the secondary sources of what “everybody knows”) and come back up with ‘Found something you all overlooked!’
For example, here Estelle Paranque looks at some itinerary documents and suddenly we see Anne traveled much further afield than previously thought when she was France – getting so far as Marseille and the shores of the Mediterranean. What?!?!
Next, Paranque makes a strong case for Anne’s “engagement” to James Butler was fake from beginning to end, merely the cover for a clean extraction to get Anne – an Englishwoman with years’ worth of observation of the French court now on the possible verge of war with England - out of France without raising any eyebrows. Anne was being treated as an agent and her father had confidence in her abilities both at home and abroad – far too much to “waste” her on a marriage that would sideline her in Ireland.
Paranque examines the life of Anne Boleyn through the lens of France – Anne’s time there, her education in French culture and politcs, the French alliance she sought to maintain when back in England, and how France’s interaction with wider geo-political events had a direct impact on her life – and death.
This. Was. Awesome.
I love it when historians dig down into the primary records (bypassing all the secondary sources of what “everybody knows”) and come back up with ‘Found something you all overlooked!’
For example, here Estelle Paranque looks at some itinerary documents and suddenly we see Anne traveled much further afield than previously thought when she was France – getting so far as Marseille and the shores of the Mediterranean. What?!?!
Next, Paranque makes a strong case for Anne’s “engagement” to James Butler was fake from beginning to end, merely the cover for a clean extraction to get Anne – an Englishwoman with years’ worth of observation of the French court now on the possible verge of war with England - out of France without raising any eyebrows. Anne was being treated as an agent and her father had confidence in her abilities both at home and abroad – far too much to “waste” her on a marriage that would sideline her in Ireland.
Paranque examines the life of Anne Boleyn through the lens of France – Anne’s time there, her education in French culture and politcs, the French alliance she sought to maintain when back in England, and how France’s interaction with wider geo-political events had a direct impact on her life – and death.
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