The Other Boleyn Girl
by Philippa Gregory
Simon & Schuster, HK$132
It was first published in 2001 but The Other Boleyn Girl continues to attract attention to the historical fiction of Philippa Gregory: it has spawned a series called the Tudor Court Novels and inspired a movie starring Natalie Portman (Anne) and Scarlett Johansson (Mary) in the leading roles. Both women feature on the cover of the new edition, with Anne Boleyn's character purposefully filling much of the frame. Although Gregory describes the book as 'entirely a work of fiction', critics have been annoyed by her listing of sources, complaining that such references imply the story is more factual than it actually is. Readers who can ignore the debate should appreciate why her corset adventures have enjoyed such success. Working with fascinating historical figures, Gregory has creatively embroidered the tale of Anne and Mary Boleyn to produce a page-turning narrative of the ambitions of the siblings to sustain the interest of King Henry VIII (played by Eric Bana in the movie). When the capricious monarch tires of Mary, her elder, more forceful sister moves in. Most readers will know the outcome long before the book comes to an end. One of Gregory's skills is in urging them to read on.
