Gregory has written several novels about Tudor/Elizabethan England - and they are fun and easy to read, giving insight into the characters and society of the period. Pros: This book focused on the relationship not just b/w Dudley and Elizabeth - but also Elizabeth and Cecil and the workings of the court in those days. It was interesting seeing it all put together in context. I also liked reading about Dudley's wife Amy; since you rarely hear anything about her. Cons: I couldn't quite get a clear grasp on Dudley's personality. I did not care for the way Elizabeth was portrayed - as someone who was almost completely manipulated by both Cecil and Dudley. While I'm sure she was uncertain in those early years of her reign - she was also a master manipulator herself. I would have liked her character to be a lot stronger than it was. If you like this time period - "The Other Boleyn Girl" was much better.Read full review
The Virgins Lover is an amazing book in the Tutor England series by Phillipa Gregory. The story is captivating and inspirational, it also makes the reader reflect on the past and you learn so much history as well. I bought this book because I love Phillipa Gregory as a writer, I've never been disappointed by her books, they always live up to what is expected, if not exceed it. I highly recommend her as an author. Her books may be a bit taboo in a sense, but if you get past that, she really is an amazing writer and her characters come alive in every story. Once you pick this book up you won't be able to put it down.
Phililippa Gregory is on everybody's "Hot List" for good reason, she puts some very interesting twists and "what if's" into historical subject matter. Of course, that's what makes good reads. There were certain things that kind of tick the reader off... but one must remember it only bothers us because we are reading with the ideals of the 21st century! I had never read P. G. before, and have enjoyed her books. (Although I was glad not to have read Wideacre first or I would never have read any other books by her! Wideacre was really twisted in my opinion. It's the reason I never bothered with the sequels.) I have, however, loved all the Bolyen series and am currently reading The Other Queen. (I would recommend this book as well.) With all novels, you must react with a certain 'suspension of disbelief" to some of the plotlines, but overall this book really pulled me in quickly and did not disappoint. Not all will find her style of writing to their liking, but she weaves a great tale that has you wondering just what is fact and what is fiction... better still is that you don't care because it's just too good to put the book down and find out!Read full review
I have become a big fan of Philippa Gregory since reading "The Other Boleyn Girl." I have always been a big fan of Henry VIII and Elizabeth I; they were fascinating people. "The Virgin's Lover" is a love story about Elizabeth I and Robert Dudley, filled with mystery (surrounding the death of Amy Robsart, Dudley's wife), romance, court intrigue and even some political history. The political history parts were a little dull for me, but are indeed integral to the story--most everything Elizabeth did had a political reason attached to it. The only thing I can say would have made this book better would have been if the final chapter would have been a follow-up to say what happened to Elizabeth and Robert years down the road. It is said that he sent her a letter on his death bed, which she kept until her own death. Wouldn't it be interesting to know what was in that letter! All in all, it is a wonderful book, and I for one look forward to reading more of Philippa Gregory's writing.Read full review
Super writer about European monarchs and their many tribulations!!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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