Sunday, April 7, 2019

Review: Anna of Kleve: The Princess in the Portrait

Anna of Kleve: The Princess in the Portrait Anna of Kleve: The Princess in the Portrait by Alison Weir
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alison Weir does it again! I absolutely loved this book. Anna of Kleve is the 4th installment in Weir's Six Tudor Queens series. As with the others, this book does not disappoint.

Anna of Kleve (Kleve is in Germany) gives an account of her life starting from the age of 14. She is brought up as a staunch Catholic, despite the population being largely Lutheran, and is obedient to her brother Wilhelm. In the hopes of forming an alliance with England, Anna is offered as a bride to King Henry VIII.

Anna is the most intriguing of all of Henry's wives. Her marriage was short, only months, and after divorcing her, Henry regards her as a sister and provides her with a very comfortable life. This is in great contrast to his other wives and his propensity towards beheading. Also, very little is known about this particular queen. This book provides a portrayal of Anna that could have been. There were many imaginings in this book since not much is known about Anna. However, it is also important to note that there was still a great deal of historical accuracy based on the facts that are known. As for the liberties, I didn't mind them since it provided a fun and moving depiction of events in Anna's life.

As with all of Alison Weir's books, this is very well written. I particularly enjoyed the contrast between England and Kleve in terms of fashion and politics. I found this book fascinating in all aspects and cannot wait for the next installment on Katherine Howard.



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Friday, February 8, 2019

Review: The Last Collection: A Novel of Elsa Schiaparelli and Coco Chanel

The Last Collection: A Novel of Elsa Schiaparelli and Coco Chanel The Last Collection: A Novel of Elsa Schiaparelli and Coco Chanel by Jeanne Mackin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Set in the fashion capital of 1938 Paris, we follow the rivalry between 2 fashion icons, Coco Chanel and Elsa Schiaparelli, as they each strive to be recognized as the most influential designer. This book is filled with elegance, whimsy, and extravagance, juxtaposed with a world that is at war as the Nazis march closer to this glittering city. Additionally, this story is about Lily Cooper who is a young widow striving to find herself in this new city. Lily is an artist and finds herself within the inner circle of these two feuding designers.

The Last Collection is not so much about the couture fashion designs but more about loyalty, purpose, and rebirth. With World War II looming, this book just became more compelling.

I just loved Mackin’s depiction of Paris in the late 1930’s. She made everything come to life in rich color. There is so much layer in this book. It is colorful, fascinating and is absolute perfection!


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