Helpful Score: 24
To read this series chronologically, read them in this order: TCP, TOBG, TBI, TQF, TVL, and TOQ (coming 9/16/08). If you want advice on the best way to read the books when you have started with TOBG (most of us seem to have done this), I recommend reading all of them chronologically after TOBG to the end, and then looping back to read TCP after you have finished the series. I heard that from folks who've read them all, and it seems to be working for me. However, I don't think I can wait that long now because I would have to wait until September when TOQ comes out. This is the best of the three Gregory books that I have read so far. I read the two Boleyn books and enjoyed them thoroughly, but this is much richer. It is very interesting that my favorite of her characters is not nobility but a fool! Hannah is strong, unexpectedly adept in dealing with matters of the court, independent, and idealistic but grounded. I love this book. Also, this book has a good little slice of war which rounds it out well. A note to readers of historical fiction, Gregory is filled with PLENTY romance and cotton candy to make the reads seem light while informing of the period.
Helpful Score: 12
I love that even though we've been taught our history lessons in school, Philippa Gregory is able to write a book from a "minor" character's prospective to give the feeling that this is all new material. There are plenty of plot twist to keep this book moving. I love the descriptions of the era from the dress, mannerisms, and activities of the day. I can't wait to read more from this author!!!
Helpful Score: 10
Very compelling, this is the sequel to The Other Boleyn Girl. I couldn't put down this book! Great historical novel, tells the story of the succession to the throne after Henry VIII through the eyes of a young woman who goes to work at the court. Good read!
Helpful Score: 8
Phillipa Gregory has such a unique voice and is such a talented story-teller. While I had my doubts when I started this book, I was eventually swept away by it. The pace was initially much slower than the previous Gregory books that I had read, but in a way that was fitting for the main character of this story, Hannah Green. In much the same way that you see Hannah transform from a young girl and the Queen's fool, the book transforms from ordinary to magnificent. You won't want to miss this one.
Helpful Score: 8
Philippa Gregory, as is typical of her works, is able to re-tell common tale in a very uncommon manner - by way of utilizing a servant's perspective. Love it!
My least favorite of all the books by P. Gregory which I've read to date. I found Hannah unlikeable through most of the book. In the last third of the book she became bearable to me, but I never really warmed up to her.
Interesting in the way it took the tale of the Marranos (Jews who converted to Christianity) fleeing Spain and the Inquisition for a safer haven and wove it into a story/bit of history that I'm all too familiar with (Tudor England).
Interesting in the way it took the tale of the Marranos (Jews who converted to Christianity) fleeing Spain and the Inquisition for a safer haven and wove it into a story/bit of history that I'm all too familiar with (Tudor England).
Helpful Score: 4
Probably one of my favorites of Philippa's. Tells about Hannah who has the "gift" of sight and is hired by Queen Mary and then Queen Elizabeth. Around the time of the witchtrials in England and she must choose to continue serving the queen, or choose a commoners path. Very good read and very detailed oriented like all of her books are. Beware though, could take you awhile to finish, took me about a week to read the book. =)
Helpful Score: 4
This books follows The Other Boleyn Girl thus continuing the story of Henry VIII, now focusing on his offspring: Edward, Mary, and Elizabeth. Again there is treachery, spying, secrets, upending loyalites, and a fight till death for the throne. All this is told and seen through the eyes of a Jewish-turned-Christian girl Hannah Green, who is a common girl with an uncommon gift: she is able to predict the future. She is quickly taken into the royal court to serve both the Queen Mary and Princess Elisabeth and to no surprise she gets caught in lies and scheming herself. She gets into some big trouble and must decide what she wants in life. This is a nice coming of age story as you see Hannah mature and decide where her true loyalties lie. I have come to love Philippa Gregory's books and this is no exception. Next up I am going to take on her Wildacre series.
Helpful Score: 3
I like all of Philippa Gregory's books. They contain historical events but are fiction.
This one was a little bit hard to get into, but a good read anyway.
A young Jewish girl flees Spain with her Father to England. She has the "sight" and her gift influences her in the court of Queen Mary and with Princess Elizabeth and Robert Dudley also.
She is promised in wedlock to a commoner and must choose between him and an exciting and dangerous life at court.
This one was a little bit hard to get into, but a good read anyway.
A young Jewish girl flees Spain with her Father to England. She has the "sight" and her gift influences her in the court of Queen Mary and with Princess Elizabeth and Robert Dudley also.
She is promised in wedlock to a commoner and must choose between him and an exciting and dangerous life at court.
Helpful Score: 3
I'm not very good at writing, but I wanted to share that I very much enjoyed this book. I thought the depth of history involved in the character development was very pleasurable and held my interest. I liked the journey of the lead character. A tough book to put down!
Helpful Score: 3
"The Queen's Fool" is the story of Hannah Green who has the Sight, and is therefore invited to be a Holy Fool for King Edward, and after his death, Queen Mary, and eventually Queen Elizabeth. Hannah and her father fled from Spain after her mother was burned at the stake by the Inquisition for being Jewish.
"The Queen's Fool" is a compelling story, but I was a bit disappointed after reading "The Other Boleyn Girl" (also by Philippa Gregory). I thought that "The Queen's Fool" was not quite as gripping, and it took me a bit longer to get into the story. I love the time period surrounding the story, and Gregory definitely offered a different perspective than the ones taught in history class (obviously I know that this is historical fiction, and not all true).
I recommend that you read "The Queen's Fool", especially if you enjoy historical fiction and the period between King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth.
"The Queen's Fool" is a compelling story, but I was a bit disappointed after reading "The Other Boleyn Girl" (also by Philippa Gregory). I thought that "The Queen's Fool" was not quite as gripping, and it took me a bit longer to get into the story. I love the time period surrounding the story, and Gregory definitely offered a different perspective than the ones taught in history class (obviously I know that this is historical fiction, and not all true).
I recommend that you read "The Queen's Fool", especially if you enjoy historical fiction and the period between King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth.
Helpful Score: 2
Philippa Gregory does a great job with these books! I usually can't stand anything having to do with this time period, but once I read The Other Boleyn Girl I was hooked! Now I have been reading all of her books and they are just fantastic
Helpful Score: 2
It was a good historical story. I had troubles getting through the 500 pages, my family kept saying are you still reading that book. I much preferred her other book " The Other Boleyn". I will still try "The Boleyn Inheritance".
Helpful Score: 2
I really enjoyed this book. Growing up as rather a tomboy myself, I enjoyed Hannah's independence and unwillingness to be like all the other girls. I enjoyed the story and found myself flying through the pages to see what would happen next.
Helpful Score: 2
Interesting how the central intelligence of the book is a commoner....and seeing the royal court from her perspective. Not my fave P.Gregory book, but still in all, engaging and fascinating really. Her Tudor books always lead me to look something up on the map or geneology, that is, to dig deeper into this period. She is really a gifted writer and a new favorite for me.
Helpful Score: 2
I really love Philippa Gregory and this kept me reading late into the night, like all her other books. But there was something very unsatisfying to me about Hannah's relationship with her husband. I didn't really appreciate the later half of the book as much as I would have liked to. But still, I really enjoyed it!
Helpful Score: 2
I liked it, but it was less credible than the other Philippa Gregory books I have read: The Other Boleyn Girl, The Constant Princess, The Boleyn Inheritance. Out of those, this is by far my least favorite. The character of Hannah was just too far-fetched for me--I kept thinking after each one of her amazing survivals: "she really should be beheaded for that", but because I was only half way through the book, I knew she'd somehow make it. It was hard to get close to such an obviously fictional character who couldn't have possibly survived the situations she gets herself into. I enjoy reading historical fiction, but I like to be able to believe it could have happened. But like pizza, even so-so P. Gregory is good, if you know what I mean.....
Helpful Score: 2
Hannah Green is no ordinary 14 year old. She and her father are Jews escaping from the Spanish Inquisition and looking for a better life in England and she has the gift of Sight, which allows her to predict the future. A chance encounter with Robert Dudley, a noble at the court of King Edward, takes her from her father's humble print shop to the royal palace where she becomes the Holy Fool, a trusted companion of the Tudor queen and a spy for the Dudleys. Torn between her obligations at court and her family and heritage Hannah will become a woman like no other in the tumultuous years when the Tudor offspring fought for the throne.
This is the second book I've read by Philippa Gregory and the first one was so long ago that I've all but forgotten how enjoyable her books are. So enjoyable, in fact, that I didn't want this story to end and stretched out reading it as much as I could.
There is a very clear evolution of the main character from a girl who is afraid of her own shadow into a young woman who knows her own mind and can act decisively on a moment's notice. Hannah's fear of being discovered for who she really was at a time when being a Jew was most dangerous is almost palpable. The circumstances have made her into a habitual liar and it is easy to understand the cynicism of this young girl - she's seen the wind change so many times that she very clearly understand that more often than not what the right answer is depends on who is asking the questions and she has grown bitter at her heritage for preventing her from having a peaceful life. It was heartening however to see her lose neither the sight of who she was nor her appreciation of the people around her for what they brought to the table as her fear became less paralyzing.
One of the reasons I enjoy historical fiction so much is that it gives us a glimpse of what happened decades and centuries before our time in a voice very different from the dull monotone of history books. If the author has done her homework and unless she takes serious liberties with the course of history we get a very good ideas of the events that took place and the people involved. Gregory's mastery is revealed in the fact that I trust every word she writes. I can't help but believe that Mary, Elizabeth, the Dudleys, the Carpenters and the rest really were exactly the way Gregory portrays them and that it couldn't be any other way. It was also very interesting to gain the insight into not only the English court but also the clandestine Jewish community of XVI century Europe. Persecuted by both Catholics and Protestants, forced to hide who they were no matter where they went but not giving up on their heritage and their faith these people showed true courage and resilience in the face of the threat of death at every turn.
There were only two things that I didn't like about the book. One has to do with the plot and to stay true to my "no spoilers" policy I won't go into details. I will only say that what happened seemed unfair and that there was a double standard when actions of characters were evaluated. Another has to do with character development, so here I will elaborate. At one point Hannah talks about how the cattiness at court prepared her to deal with the relationships outside of it and the problem was that we didn't see any of her interaction with any courtiers besides the Dudleys and Will Sommers, the other royal Fool, and there was no animosity there. As soon as I read this little bit I knew that there was no support for it anywhere else in the narrative and while it made sense that courtiers competing for position were no angels it still jarred me out of the story.
These two things are by no means deal breakers and The Queen's Fool put Philippa Gregory on my list of authors to follow and I would recommend her books without reservation to any fan of historical fiction or anyone who wants to "test-drive" the genre.
Read my other reviews at bibliophilescorner.blogspot.com
This is the second book I've read by Philippa Gregory and the first one was so long ago that I've all but forgotten how enjoyable her books are. So enjoyable, in fact, that I didn't want this story to end and stretched out reading it as much as I could.
There is a very clear evolution of the main character from a girl who is afraid of her own shadow into a young woman who knows her own mind and can act decisively on a moment's notice. Hannah's fear of being discovered for who she really was at a time when being a Jew was most dangerous is almost palpable. The circumstances have made her into a habitual liar and it is easy to understand the cynicism of this young girl - she's seen the wind change so many times that she very clearly understand that more often than not what the right answer is depends on who is asking the questions and she has grown bitter at her heritage for preventing her from having a peaceful life. It was heartening however to see her lose neither the sight of who she was nor her appreciation of the people around her for what they brought to the table as her fear became less paralyzing.
One of the reasons I enjoy historical fiction so much is that it gives us a glimpse of what happened decades and centuries before our time in a voice very different from the dull monotone of history books. If the author has done her homework and unless she takes serious liberties with the course of history we get a very good ideas of the events that took place and the people involved. Gregory's mastery is revealed in the fact that I trust every word she writes. I can't help but believe that Mary, Elizabeth, the Dudleys, the Carpenters and the rest really were exactly the way Gregory portrays them and that it couldn't be any other way. It was also very interesting to gain the insight into not only the English court but also the clandestine Jewish community of XVI century Europe. Persecuted by both Catholics and Protestants, forced to hide who they were no matter where they went but not giving up on their heritage and their faith these people showed true courage and resilience in the face of the threat of death at every turn.
There were only two things that I didn't like about the book. One has to do with the plot and to stay true to my "no spoilers" policy I won't go into details. I will only say that what happened seemed unfair and that there was a double standard when actions of characters were evaluated. Another has to do with character development, so here I will elaborate. At one point Hannah talks about how the cattiness at court prepared her to deal with the relationships outside of it and the problem was that we didn't see any of her interaction with any courtiers besides the Dudleys and Will Sommers, the other royal Fool, and there was no animosity there. As soon as I read this little bit I knew that there was no support for it anywhere else in the narrative and while it made sense that courtiers competing for position were no angels it still jarred me out of the story.
These two things are by no means deal breakers and The Queen's Fool put Philippa Gregory on my list of authors to follow and I would recommend her books without reservation to any fan of historical fiction or anyone who wants to "test-drive" the genre.
Read my other reviews at bibliophilescorner.blogspot.com
Helpful Score: 1
This was the 1st book by Philippa Gregory that I had read. Honestly, it took 2 or 3 times of trying to read it before I finally got through it. Once I got into it, it was interesting. I would be curious to know how much of this is based on real history. I am currently having the same problem with one of her other books, The Virgin Queen. Maybe I just need to be in the mood for one of her books.
Helpful Score: 1
good read so many twists and turns kept me turning page after page to see the next twist.
Helpful Score: 1
A wonderful period piece about a young woman named Hannah Green sent to be Queen Mary's fool. Hannah is really a Jewess engaged and in hiding from the Spanish Inquistion with her father. How she adapts to life at "court" and eventually finds herself, makes for a book I hated to put down.
Helpful Score: 1
A good read if you like her books. It is not as good as "The Other Boleyn Girl."
Helpful Score: 1
Light historical fiction which touches upon life in Elizabeth's court...a fun, quick read.
Helpful Score: 1
I have to say, I truly LOVED this book-very very good read if you enjoy historical romance!
Helpful Score: 1
Ms. Gregory's books are addictive. This is the first period piece I've ever read where "Bloody Mary" was portrayed as a loving, caring woman as well as a shortsighted regligious fanatic. Very interesting read.
Helpful Score: 1
Very impressive historical fiction, especially with use of a character that who has her own interesting story woven into the historical characters already well known from the era.
Helpful Score: 1
I really enjoyed this book. It is full of intrigue, romance, danger, and historical drama. I was actually surprised that I liked it as well as I did, because this isn't the historical era that I usually enjoy reading about. I highly recommend this book.
Helpful Score: 1
good historiacal has lots of political plots & intrigue and love story to boot
This book was a disappointment. Although I have read and immensely enjoyed the author's other books, this one seemed forced - and like another reviewer said, I also couldn't stand the main character until the end of the book. Also, couldn't there have been a couple of gratuitous sex scenes to spice things up, like all her other books? That would have made the main character's whining bearable. ;)
Helpful Score: 1
Still reading but OMG! This is a great book. With in the first few pages I was judgmental. I thought oh great here goes another book all about horny men with a twist. Then as I read on the book is wonderful. I love every bit of it. I catch myself spending extra time were I can trying to sneak a few extra minute to read a few more pages. I just finished it, it was great and now i am on the hunt for the rest of this authors books.
Helpful Score: 1
Wonderfully rich with descriptions of the life and times of England and the reign of Queen Mary. The intricate intrigues and the Queen's fool. Wonderful, exciting and rich. Locved it!
Helpful Score: 1
mystery suspense danger love loyalty WAR! all the stuff a good book includes. loved this book.
Helpful Score: 1
Not quite as fabulous as the other Philippa Gregory novels. But it is a good read. Interesting reading about the possible relationship between half-sisters Mary & Elizabeth.
Helpful Score: 1
It is 1553, Elizabeth is sister to Mary, who would be queen. Childless and alone, Mary seeks to marry Philip of Spain in the hopes that there will be a male heir to the throne. Forces within England are plotting against the Catholic queen. "A child but no child, a king, but no king, a virgin queen all forgotten..." predicts Hannah Green, a fourteen year-old seer.
One of my favorites by Philippa Gregory. In sequence, this book comes after The Other Boleyn Girl and the Boleyn Inheritance. It covers the time period from Queen Mary (daughter of Katharine of Aragon) and the beginning of Queen Elizabeth's rule (daughter of Anne Boleyn). Hannah is 14, and dressed as a boy she becomes vassal to Robert Dudley. Lord Dudley is sentenced to treason and is eventually released, but his movie star looks and rakish attitude make him an attractive foil. Hannah is engaged to Daniel Carpenter, her long suffering beau.
Some readers may be bothered by the lack of historical accuracy, but to me that is easy to overlook in this fine work of fiction.
One of my favorites by Philippa Gregory. In sequence, this book comes after The Other Boleyn Girl and the Boleyn Inheritance. It covers the time period from Queen Mary (daughter of Katharine of Aragon) and the beginning of Queen Elizabeth's rule (daughter of Anne Boleyn). Hannah is 14, and dressed as a boy she becomes vassal to Robert Dudley. Lord Dudley is sentenced to treason and is eventually released, but his movie star looks and rakish attitude make him an attractive foil. Hannah is engaged to Daniel Carpenter, her long suffering beau.
Some readers may be bothered by the lack of historical accuracy, but to me that is easy to overlook in this fine work of fiction.
Helpful Score: 1
Very interesting view of the religious conflicts in England during the reign of Queen Mary I,and her rivalry with her sister Elizabeth I, told from the point of view of a young Jewish girl who served them both. It kept be intrigued from start to finish.
Helpful Score: 1
... Funny, historical, and very readable. One that keeps you reading even when you should be doing something else.
Helpful Score: 1
Of all of Philippa Gregory's books from the English monarchy times, I think this one is my favorite read, by far. It goes outside of the inner court, and leads you along the life of an outsider to the kingdom.
Helpful Score: 1
Another great work of historical fiction from Gregory.
This book focuses on the reign of Mary Tudor, the daughter of Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon (Henry's first wife). The story is told from the viewpoint of a young female servant, whom I liked and enjoyed reading about.
I have read other books set in this time period in England, and Gregory managed to tell the story in a way that was fresh and entertaining.
If you are interested in the period, or a fan of Gregory's you'll enjoy this one.
This book focuses on the reign of Mary Tudor, the daughter of Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon (Henry's first wife). The story is told from the viewpoint of a young female servant, whom I liked and enjoyed reading about.
I have read other books set in this time period in England, and Gregory managed to tell the story in a way that was fresh and entertaining.
If you are interested in the period, or a fan of Gregory's you'll enjoy this one.
Helpful Score: 1
I really liked this book. Read this after "The Other Boleyn Girl" and couldn't put this one down either.
Helpful Score: 1
This is the best of Philippa Gregory's Tudor-era books that I have read so far. I found myself needing to go back and read passages because I had skipped over them in my haste to see what would happen next.
Helpful Score: 1
This one is part of the Tudor series. It didn't suck me in as well as The Other Boleyn Girl, The Constant Princess, or The Boleyn Inheritance. This book takes place at the end of Queen Mary's reign and before Queen Elizabeth's. Robert Dudley has met young Hannah Green, a bookkeeper's daughter and a psychic, and commissioned her to be Queen Mary's little pet. Encouraged to use her gift of sight for what amounts to heresy, and torn between two women she admires, the man she adores (handsome Robert Dudley), and the man she is engaged to marry, Hannah finds herself in quite a mess.
In all fairness, this was a terrific story. Part of the reason I wasn't as absorbed is that in the other books, one has a framework of historical facts that the story is constructed on. In this one, Hannah Green isn't a person whom we have proof of existing in the real history of the time. That it seems to be complete fiction rather than mostly fiction (like the rest of the series) shouldn't color your opinion.
In all fairness, this was a terrific story. Part of the reason I wasn't as absorbed is that in the other books, one has a framework of historical facts that the story is constructed on. In this one, Hannah Green isn't a person whom we have proof of existing in the real history of the time. That it seems to be complete fiction rather than mostly fiction (like the rest of the series) shouldn't color your opinion.
Helpful Score: 1
I've read a couple of other books by this author. They were fairly good, but this one is my favorite. It is historical fiction at it's best. The main character (Hannah) is fictional, but the rest of the story sticks very closely to the truth. It is a slightly different take, than the usual, on the relatioship between Queen Mary & Princess Elizabeth. I won't say more on that because I wouldn't want to ruin it for anyone. It is certainly as valid a perspective as any others that I've read, just looks at them from a different light.
I loved the character of Hannah. I particularly liked Gregory giving her the "gift of sight." She used it minimally, but it added a nice touch to the story. There are also several threads going on in the book so that it included a little "coming of age," romance,suspence & several mysteries. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys well-written historical fiction.
I loved the character of Hannah. I particularly liked Gregory giving her the "gift of sight." She used it minimally, but it added a nice touch to the story. There are also several threads going on in the book so that it included a little "coming of age," romance,suspence & several mysteries. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys well-written historical fiction.
Helpful Score: 1
Interesting. Got a little slow in the middle, but giving history a twist of fiction was good.
Helpful Score: 1
This story centers around a young Jewish girl with the gift of Sight. She ends up in the court of Edward, then Mary, then Elizabeth. She must keep hidden her true faith, while precariously being tossed from one court to the next -- putting on the mantle of whichever faith is presently reigning. She is a kind hearted girl who finds good in each of the royalty she serves and in her way respects and loves them even when in conflict with her own fears and desires. This book hooked me on Philippa Gregory's writings.
Helpful Score: 1
Couldn't put it down! A great mix of historical fiction and just plain good story telling.
Helpful Score: 1
I didn't like this one quite as much as "The Other Boleyn Girl" but this is an excellent book. It really gave an interesting illustration of how Jewish people had to live and what lengths they had to go to hide their faith and heritage.
Another great book by Phillipa Gregory. I really enjoy her books about the English monarchy before and after the reign of Henry the Eighth.
This book is a part of the "Boelyn" stories. i enjoyed it has much as "The Other Boelyn Girl" and "the Boelyn Inheritance". Philippa Gregory brings to life the court of King Henry VIII. Definitly worth the read......
This book was the most worthy indulgences I've ever allowed myself. I prefer historical novels with main characters who are actually historical figures but Gregory did this with the utmost integrity. Very fulfilling.
Superbly written! Historical fiction at its best! From the first page, it is so hard to put down!
Fairly good. Some bits were tedious but overall it was a quick read. Heavy on the romance, twists a lot of history, but that's what historical fiction is for, I suppose.
While I loved the other Gregory novels, (Boleyn girl, Boleyn inheritance) I had trouble finishing this one. I trudged through, and thats what it felt like...like wading knee deep in mud. Not as good as her others. Moved too slow for me.
Great Story, well written, keeps you entertained throughout the whole book. I did not want to set it down at any point.
This book was interesting, woven in with her other books, adding to the story of the Tudors
Although I love books about Elizabeth I & can't seem to get enough of them lately, I really couldn't get into this one. It was so historically different from the others I've read that I had a hard time believing it. The main character, Hannah Green, is not an historical figure so her role in the novel just didn't fit with everything I've read so far. Someone who doesn't know as much about Elizabeth I as I do would probably enjoy this far more than me!
A wonderful story completed with a historical back drop. The author makes learning history fun.
This was a good follow up to the Boleyn Inheritance with a totally new perspective.
This is my fifth Gregory book and I will continue to read more. I was hesitant at first because of my preconceived notion of what a "fool" would do in that era. I also didn't want alot of mystic/psychic content. The book hooked me from the first page. More than I expected. Highly recommended.
I love this book because it is a story with a history lesson. I love the history that you learn even if it is in story form!
I read this book in just a few sittings. Even though it is a historical novel, it is very easy to read. The Elizabethan era came to life with the human element that the author added. I would recommend this to anyone who loves history.
Interesting, even if the story is a bit of a stretch. Another Philippa Gregory hostoric fiction novel, fun to read.
This is a wonderful read for anyone interested in historical fiction involving the scheming and plotting of the Tudor court dealing mostly with the relationship of this young Jewish woman who becomes a holy fool for the young dying king and her relationship with Queen Mary and Princess Elizabeth.
A young woman caughte in the rivalry between Queen Mary and her half sister, Elizabeth, must find her true destiny amid treason, poisonous rivalries, loss of faith, and unreguited love.
Great book.Very well written.
a interesting period story about a jewish girl who must learn to hide and play politics.
I absolutely loved this book :) It's a great look at the politics of the 1500's in Queen Mary's court.
excellent historical novel about Queen Mary and Queen Elizbeth from a fool"s (woman) point of view
excellent historic fiction. love all of gregory's books
This is a womderful book about Queen Mary of England and her sister Queen Elizabeth. I highly suggest this book after "The Other Boleyn Girl" and before "The Virgin's Lover". Philippa Gregory is a great historical fiction writer.
Better than the "Other Boleyn Girl"!! I loved this book!!
The author casts a fictional character, Hannah Verde, among a cast of historical character, the Protestant Elizabeth the First and the Catholic Mary Tudor, both daughers of Henry VIII. The Princesses are fueding against each other for the title of Queen of England. Hannah is sent to spy on the princesses but soon becomes loyal to both for different reasons. Hannah also has an internal stuggle between the independent woman she wants to become and the woman she thinks her betrothed wants her to be. All the while she must keep her family's Jewish heritage a secret for fear of persecution in a unstable England.
This book is wonderful! I love the main character's story. After reading "The Other Boleyn Girl", I expected a similar fast paced, dramatic story. This is a more charismatic, heart warming story. I felt like I got to know the main character better. Even though the story takes place so long ago, the author writes in such a way that the reader can relate to the characters and their lives. Very good!
Though I don't feel the story line of this book was on par with her other novels, I still think it was a decent read! The book was full of vivid details which Gregory is known for, I'm just not too sure of the supernatural side of the story. It took a little getting used to for me. Would still definitely recommend!
Not much into "Bodice Rippers," or romance type novels, but someone told me this was a pretty good read and I agree.
Even though it dance around the facts of history a bit, it is a fun read and makes one wonder what life really was like in the Queen's court.
I enjoyed it.
Even though it dance around the facts of history a bit, it is a fun read and makes one wonder what life really was like in the Queen's court.
I enjoyed it.
Really enjoyed reading this book and the way things happen in a castle with all the distrust and back stabbing that goes on. You will be hooked from the first chapter.
At first I didn't like the book too much...I think it's because it focused alot on Queen Mary, and I already knew what was going to happen to her. But after awhile the book focuses more on Hannah the Fool's life, it picked up, and I enjoyed the book much more. Loved the ending...hope for a sequel!
Excellent read!
This book held my attention, cover to cover.
Good, entertaining story.
This book held my attention, cover to cover.
Good, entertaining story.
Very well written book and a fast read. I am fascinated with English history, having travelled to England several times. I find historical fiction fun to read along with the actual history- makes it easier to follow and understand.
This book began a little slow for me but quickly picked up after the first 50-75 pages. I read this book while on vacation in Las Vegas and I was so enthralled that I kept thinking I wished I could go read instead of seeing the sites! I especially liked reading about the Jewish experience in Tudor England and Europe. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes hitorical novels.
In The Queen's Fool, Philippa Gregory continues the historical fiction she started with The Other Boleyn Girl, telling the story of the princesses Mary and Elizabeth after the death of Edward VI. The story is told through the eyes of Hannah Green, a Jewish girl who escaped the Spanish Inquisition with her father. She's identified as a seer and brought to the royal court dressed as a fool is men's clothing. Hannah predicts events, passes messages, and spies on the princesses. She also hides the truth of her background, knowing that being Jewish during the period of religious turmoil could lead to her death. The Queen's Fool has received positive reviews with The Independent saying, "And yet this self-confessed literary snob is convinced every time. I loved The Other Boleyn Girl and The Queen's Fool is even better."
This book didn't hook me until the second half. I knew it would be worth reading since I really enjoyed Ms. Gregory's "The Other Boleyn Girl."
Very interesting. Kept my attention and made me want to research more of the history surrounding the story. Excellent read.
An excellent fictional account of the English court in the 1500\'s through the eyes of an underling in the court. I will look for other books by Philippa Gregory
Great book, very engrossing. Hard to put down.
I'm not done yet, but I love it! Great historical fiction, great for those interested in Tudor/Elizabethan England. The period as seen through the eyes of Hannah the Fool is a refreshing and innovative perspective.
I love this author, also the author of "The Other Boleyn Girl". This is just as wonderful as the other period novels that have been written. This one is written for the time of winter 1553, even typing that date gives me visions of beautiful gowns, tremendous courts of royalty and large tables of food, and always watching ones back. Trying to hold power and being in love silentely. Ms Gregory is a Queen herself with imagination and words. She tells her stories so beautifully, they go with you when you have read the last page and closed the book.
A good book. it was definitely a slow read for me. The ending was great though
not as good as her other books. dragged on, not enough story to tell. the same things kept happening over and over again in the book. a disappointment.
If you like Phillipa Gregory; sort of trashy bodice ripping stuff cloaked in meticulous historical research that makes you feel like you're reading something substantive, you'll like this book, as I did.
I love these books, they are so rich with character development, setting and full of thrills and suspense along with a little wit!
I've read most of the books in the Tudor series and this was my favorite. The characters are great and the story is so intriguing.
I enjoyed TOBG and TBI much more than this one. But I still liked it and like seeing the progression of the Tudor family.
The Queen's Fool is a narrative from the point of a Jewish woman who dreams prophetic dreams and serves both Mary and Elizabeth Tudor while they are queen. Not only do you get insight into what court life at the time may have looked like from a commoner's perspective, you also learn about the main character (Hannah) and her life as it weaves in and out of England's royal house.
Don't know how histroically accurate it is, but I really enjoyed it.
I enjoyed it very much. Great author.
Wonderful book as is always the case of Philippa Gregory's books. A winner!!
This is the second book of Philippa Gregory's that I read, the first being The Other Boleyn Girl. I loved both and have two other books by her already in the queue to read. If you like historical fiction, by all means, The Queen's Fool is an excellent adventure.
Oh, I loved this book! I think I enjoyed it the most out of all her books I have read so far.
Fabulous book, another compelling read in the series of histrically acurate novels. I simply couldn't put it down, and read until I drowsed into the dreams of the pages in the book itself...what a great experience!
This is another great book fromthe author Philippa Gregory.
A fascinating tale! Great to read with The Virgin's Lover by the same author.
I liked this book a lot. As good as "The Other Boleyn Girl".
Very enjoyable period selection. Has some "intimate" details so I wouldn't recommend it for younger teens.
Superbly written and very captivating. Although this is a mix of both real and fictional characters, the blend is so smooth. Very well done.
Another great book by Philippa Gregory!!! It didn't really pick up until close to the end, but I liked it as much as The Other Boleyn Girl.
This book kept me enthralled the whole time! I loved it!
excellent book...don't miss it! One of her best!
This is a story of a fictitious girl, Hannah Green, living in the 1500's during the reign of Queen "Bloody" Mary. It's a fictitious story woven around the true historical events... a great story of what might've been.
This book picks up appx 20 years after "The Other Boleyn Girl". Great book.
This book picks up appx 20 years after "The Other Boleyn Girl". Great book.
"A young woman caught in the rivalry between Queen Mary and her half sister Elizabeth (future queen) must find true destiny amid treason, poisonous rivalries, loss of faith, and unrequited love". A great read for someone like me who enjoys reading about the happenings in court in centuries past!
Well written story that kept my interest all the way through.
I enjoyed the telling of Queen Mary's reign through the court fool's eyes...as well as the adventures and misadventures of Hannah's own life. Not quote as good as The Other Boleyn Girl, but fans of Philippa Gregory will certainly appreciate this.
The book takes place during 1553 and is about Hannah Green who during the course of her life interacts with all the major players of the time including Queens Mary and Elizabeth I. A great read.
During the reign of Edward VI of England, a teenager named Hannah Green dresses as a boy so she can work in her father's printshop. The Greens are actually Spanish Jews who have fled the Inquisition and immigrated to London. Hannah is also gifted with the ability to see into the future, an ability that changes her life when she becomes a royal Fool at court--and a spy who becomes involved in the conflicts between Catholics and Protestants as Protestant Edward is succeeded by Catholic Mary, with Elizabeth waiting in the wings.
Really good historical fiction.
I didn't like it as well as The Other Boleyn Girl, but still a very interesting book.
This was the best book I've read this entire year (and I've read 48). The fictional characters seem so real, and the nonfiction characters are brought to life by this fabulous author. If you have even the slightest interest in the history of Tudor England, I highly recommend reading this book.
Very enthralling story!!!
This was my favorite Phillipa Gregory book so far.
Wonderful follow up to The Other Boleyn Girl!
Great historical fiction novel--set in 1500's during the Inquisition, follows 14 yr old Hannah's life story from refugee to member of Tudor court--very entertaining
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. I liked it even better than The Other Boleyn Girl.
A womans personal journey as well as the inside scoop on Bloody Queen Mary and the waiting Elizabeth, both Queens of England. AWESOME
This was a very interesting book. Lots of history, I learned a lot about this time period, all while being completely engrossed in what was going to happen next!
its winter,1553.pursued by the Inquisition,hannah green,a 14 year old jewish girl ,is forced to flee Spain with her father.but hannah is no ordinary refugee.her gift of 'sight',the ability to forsee the future,is priceless in the troubled times of tthe tudor court.hannah is adopted by the glamorus robert dudley,the charismatic son of king edward's protector,who brings her to court as a 'holy fool' for queen mary and ultimately queen elizabeth.hired as a fool but working as a spy:promised in wedlock but in love with her master:endangered by the laws against heresy,treason and witchcraft,hannah must choose between the safe life of a commoner and the dangerous intrigues of the royal family that are inextricably bound up in her own yearnings and desires.
Tells the story of the reign of Mary Tudor from the point of view of Hannah Green a teenage Jewish girl who's fled from the Spanish Inquisition after the burning of her mother. Hannah is a holy fool meaning she has the gift of sight into the future. I was put off by the book at first because of the way Elizabeth tudor was portrayed; manipulative and guileless which is not how I see her. It's a sympathetic portrait of Mary Tudor which is also difficult for me. She's remembered as bloody Mary for good reason. Hannah's story though is very engaging. Althought she has more modern day sensibilities, the story gave me insights into how Jewish families survived some terrible periods in history.
I read it for book club-- a fast, enjoyable read with lots of historically-improbable fun parts.
This was a wonderful page turner. It kept me on my toes. I only wish she would write a sequel to see what Hannah does next.
A Jewish girl with the Sight gets adopted into Queen Mary's court as a "holy fool." She has to fight between being swept up into her false identity as a Christian and her real Jewish heritage. Well written, if not entirely plausible.
Not quite as good as The Other Boelyn Girl but engaging, non-the-less.
I enjoyed The Other Boylen Sister more though this was an enjoyable beach read.
not as good as The Other Boleyn Girl, but definitely enjoyed it!
The story of a Jewish girl caught in the rivalry between Queen Mary and her sister the future Elizabeth the First.
Wow, another great book by Philippa Gregory! I thought this was just about as good as The Other Boleyn Girl. Once I finished it, I immediately went and added the sequel, The Virgin's Lover, to my wish list as I'm really looking forward to the story of Elizabeth. Both her and Robert Dudley were my favorite characters in this book, and they're the primary characters in the next book. :)
Just like in The Other Boleyn girl, Gregory takes historical fact and weaves a tale around it. There's a few main characters in this book, with Mary, the daughter of Henry VIII and his first wife Catherine of Aragon, being the main character of historical significance. She's sometimes remembered as "Bloody Mary" because of all the supposed heretics she had burned at the stake.
This story is told from the point of view of Hannah the Fool, the daughter of a Jewish bookseller who escaped persecution with her father from Spain to England after her mother was burned as a heretic. I believe Hannah's character is completely fictional, but her story is interesting nonetheless. She's got the gift of a Seer, and as the Queen's Fool, she dresses in breeches, and doesn't really have to mind what she says as most women would... she's "a fool" after all.
Her loyalties are continually tested as she's a trusted companion to Queen Mary, as well as her half-sister, the Princess Elizabeth, and Robert Dudley, both of whom are later imprisoned and charged with treason in a plot to strip Queen Mary from the throne. Hannah moves among these groups and they all trust her; many times she doesn't even realize the plots she's actually involved in as she's asked to bring some cryptic message from one to another. She tries to speak only the truth and often the Sight compels her to do so. Had the Queen listened to Hannah before agreeing to marry Prince Philip of Spain, she may have been saved a lot of heartache, and what eventually became her undoing.
Just like in The Other Boleyn girl, Gregory takes historical fact and weaves a tale around it. There's a few main characters in this book, with Mary, the daughter of Henry VIII and his first wife Catherine of Aragon, being the main character of historical significance. She's sometimes remembered as "Bloody Mary" because of all the supposed heretics she had burned at the stake.
This story is told from the point of view of Hannah the Fool, the daughter of a Jewish bookseller who escaped persecution with her father from Spain to England after her mother was burned as a heretic. I believe Hannah's character is completely fictional, but her story is interesting nonetheless. She's got the gift of a Seer, and as the Queen's Fool, she dresses in breeches, and doesn't really have to mind what she says as most women would... she's "a fool" after all.
Her loyalties are continually tested as she's a trusted companion to Queen Mary, as well as her half-sister, the Princess Elizabeth, and Robert Dudley, both of whom are later imprisoned and charged with treason in a plot to strip Queen Mary from the throne. Hannah moves among these groups and they all trust her; many times she doesn't even realize the plots she's actually involved in as she's asked to bring some cryptic message from one to another. She tries to speak only the truth and often the Sight compels her to do so. Had the Queen listened to Hannah before agreeing to marry Prince Philip of Spain, she may have been saved a lot of heartache, and what eventually became her undoing.
I'm enjoyinng this whole series. This one is about Queen Mary. Henry's daughter with his first wife.
A really great read about the fight for power between Mary and Elizabeth. I thought it was well researched and a great retelling of the things that went on at that time.
My second favorite of Gregory's books. This was a wonderful tale with romance mixed in for good measure.
One of my favorite authors. I first read The Other Boleyn Girl, by Phlippa Gregory, so a friend of mine gave me A Queen's Fool for my birthday. Great Historical Novel. Author is a wonderful story teller that transport you to another time.
I really loved "The Other Boleyn Girl" and I was looking forward to reading this book. In the end I was a little disappointed. I found the historical side of the book really intersting and well researched, but I could care less for Hannah, Lord Robert and Daniel (some of the main characters)
So-so; This is the "prequel" to "The Virgin's Lover" but you really dont miss out on much if you skip this book. AFter reading most of Gregory's historical fiction books, all the women start sounding the same...indecisive, emotional, irrational.
The Other Boleyn Girl was a better read, in my opinion. However, The Queen's Fool was a good read.
If you're into historical stories, this is a book you will enjoy.
If you're into historical stories, this is a book you will enjoy.
Amazing read - it moves fast and is really interesting. It captures the reigns of Queen Mary and Elizabeth from the perspective of Hannah, a "holy fool," who has supernatural powers! It's really interesting!
If you like historical novals, you have to read this one.
Loved loved loved this one! I wanted Hannah to be real.
This is an excellent book...very typical Philippa Gregory...interesting and will hold your attention to the end.
I loved this book, the story of Hannah Green the queen's fool. Much insight with respect to the trials of Jewish community during the Spanish Inquisition. I also liked the storytelling of how "Bloody Mary" ascended the throne of England.
"This is the Lords Doing, It is marvelous in our eyes!"
"This is the Lords Doing, It is marvelous in our eyes!"
History come to life.
Entertaining historical fiction. A Jewish girl and her father escape the Spanish Inquisition by settling in England. The girl becomes a member of the Court of Queen Elizabeth. Set in 1500\'s.
great historically based novel
I love Phillippa Gregory's books.
It was an ok book....TOBG was a lot better...in my opinion it got off to a slow start but about half way through it got better
ok read - ending was great!
I really enjoy Ms. Gregory's books and this one was pleasant and held my attention. Can't wait to start on the next one in the series!
another good one by gregory
Another great book by Philippa Gregory. Very enjoyable read.
A wonderful story of historical fiction in the 1500's.
From Amazon.com: A young woman caught in the rivalry between Queen Mary and her half sister, Elizabeth, must find her true destiny amid treason, poisonous rivalries, loss of faith, and unrequited love.
From Amazon.com: A young woman caught in the rivalry between Queen Mary and her half sister, Elizabeth, must find her true destiny amid treason, poisonous rivalries, loss of faith, and unrequited love.
good and entertaining
From the back cover: "It is winter, 1553. Pursued by the Inquisition, Hannah Green, a fourteen-year-old Jewish girl, is forced to flee Spain with her father. But Hannah is no ordinary refugee. Her gift of "Sight", the ability to foresee the future, is priceless in the troubled times of the Tudor court. Hannah is adopted by the glamorous Robert Dudley, the charismatic son of King Edward's protector, who brings her to court as a "holy fool" for Queen Mary and ultimately, Queen Elizabeth. Hired as a fool but working as a spy; promised in wedlock but in love with her master; endangered by the laws against heresy, treason and witchcraft, Hannah must choose between the safe life of a commoner and the dangerous intrigues of the royal family that are inextricably bound up in her own yearnings and desires."
