FICTION

The Boleyn Reckoning

by Laura Andersen
Ballantine. (Boleyn Trilogy). Jul. 2014. 416p. ISBN 9780345534132. pap. $15; ebk. ISBN 9780345534149. F
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Henry VIII's spirited daughters, Mary and Elizabeth, have inspired historical novelists for centuries, but his stubborn and charismatic son, William, belongs wholly to alternate history author Andersen, who asks readers to imagine how the history of England might have changed had Anne Boleyn given birth to a healthy son. In this strong conclusion to the trilogy begun with The Boleyn King and continued with The Boleyn Deceit, Elizabeth begins to imagine a previously unthinkable future for herself as William struggles successfully to steer his kingdom away from disaster. Meanwhile, lovers Minuette and Dominic must face the consequences of their reckless decision to betray the king.
VERDICT Andersen has written an enjoyable ending to a series that has delighted many Tudor fans with its clever nods to actual history and well-researched forays into the land of "What if?" Though the love triangle portion of the plot strains credulity at times, the author ultimately brings all her main characters to an emotionally satisfying and entertaining denouement that should thoroughly please fans of the first two books.
Reviewed by Mara Bandy, Champaign P.L., IL , Jun 20, 2014
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