To Die For: A Novel of Anne Boleyn (Ladies in Waiting #1) by Sandra Byrd

Feb 02, 2013 Margaret rated it 5 of 5 stars

Recommended to Margaret by: Libby Reed

Shelves: howard-books, august-2011, arc-galley, christian-historical-fiction, tudor-hf

I've been excited about Sandra Byrd's Ladies in Waiting series for a long time and kept meaning to pick up the book, but life just kept getting in the way. I wanted to be able to really read it and give it justice in attention. I knew Sandra to be a contemporary author and though I have not read her contemporary novels I was intrigued to read her historicals and now having stayed up late into the night finishing her first in the Ladies in Waiting series I realize I have sorely missed out and I'm...more I've been excited about Sandra Byrd's Ladies in Waiting series for a long time and kept meaning to pick up the book, but life just kept getting in the way. I wanted to be able to really read it and give it justice in attention. I knew Sandra to be a contemporary author and though I have not read her contemporary novels I was intrigued to read her historicals and now having stayed up late into the night finishing her first in the Ladies in Waiting series I realize I have sorely missed out and I'm delighted to put her novels on the permanent keeper shelf.

When To Die For was first announced it had an interesting cover that did not entice me. But then as it was published it was released with the most delightful and gorgeous cover! The details in the dresses and attitude of two friends standing arm and arm is fabulous and gives an interesting look to Anne Boleyn and her lifelong friend Meg Wyatt.

As a reader I was captivated from the first preview scene and then thus into the story from the beginning in their childhood. The romance between Meg and the not-to-be Will Ogilvy was heart wrenching and barely palpable as even a glance might be enough to provide a little warmth to the heart for both of them. Also getting a fictional account of the romance between Anne and King Henry was interesting and believable as well as of course sad knowing how the story ends. Reading this tale along side lots of historical detail transports the reader to a place long gone and imagine how things might have been.

There seem to be lots of stories that tell of Anne Boleyn, but of the ones I have read or watched this one from the viewpoint of Meg Wyatt was the most enjoyable and tastefully done. Without a doubt I believe that readers from both the Christian Historical Fiction and secular pool would enjoy this story. Today I'm delighted to pick up the next Ladies in Waiting novel The Secret Keeper: A Novel of Kateryn Parr and jump into this next adventure of a time long past. I really hope I'll be blessed to get my hands on the third novel of Elizabeth,Roses Have Thorns: A Novel of Elizabeth I, in the months to come as well.

*Thanks to Sandra for providing a copy for review.*

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Jul 22, 2011 Brenda rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical

To Die For is the first book in the new Ladies in Waiting series by Sandra Byrd. I don't usually read a lot of historical fiction. I generally like to stick with the pretend stuff, like you'll find in speculative fiction. But Sandra Byrd is one of my favorite authors, and I love her novels (I haven't read her YA books, so I can't comment on those, but I adore her adult novels). Before I get to anything else, though, can I just take a minute to point out how gorgeous this cover is? It's definitel...more To Die For is the first book in the new Ladies in Waiting series by Sandra Byrd. I don't usually read a lot of historical fiction. I generally like to stick with the pretend stuff, like you'll find in speculative fiction. But Sandra Byrd is one of my favorite authors, and I love her novels (I haven't read her YA books, so I can't comment on those, but I adore her adult novels). Before I get to anything else, though, can I just take a minute to point out how gorgeous this cover is? It's definitely pretty enough to frame.

I admit, I'm not the most well-versed person on the Tudor period. An author probably could put whatever they wanted in there and I wouldn't know the difference. So for the authenticity of the story, I really can't comment. Except to say that according to Sandra Byrd's author note in the back of the book, she did a lot of research. She didn't just start writing all willy nilly.

I enjoyed reading from the viewpoint of someone who wasn't so front and center in the Tudor court. Sometimes a novel told in first person can really make me annoyed with the main character, and I think had the story been told from Anne Boleyn's point of view, that may have happened. But Meg was such a likable character. She was honest with herself and others, and was loyal, almost to a fault. But she wasn't one of those characters that was too perfect either. I was really rooting for her.

Reading from the point of view of someone who was good friends with and so close to Anne Boleyn definitely made Anne's character more sympathetic. We're hearing the story from her closest friend instead of one of her many enemies. I grew to really love Anne, and although I knew what was coming at the end (I do know some history), I was still very sad. I might have cried a little.

To Die For takes a period of history that we are all familiar with to some degree, and makes the people real. I felt like I connected with the characters in a way that I haven't been able to in the past with historical fiction. Sandra Byrd is a Christian writer, and while there is religion in this book (which is to be expected for the time period as well), it's never preachy. That's one thing I've really enjoyed about her books. I've never felt preached to or lectured as with some Christian fiction.

This is a wonderful historical fiction novel and I can honestly say that I loved it. I will be anxiously awaiting the next book in the series, which is due in 2012. If you love historical fiction, the Tudor period, or just a really good story, get your hands on this book! (Release date is August 9th)(less)

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Aug 10, 2011 Serena Chase rated it 5 of 5 stars

Prior to reading To Die For my knowledge of the Tudor period of English history was pretty much limited to two specific, yet unrelated sources: a DVD rental of The Other Boleyn Girl, and the much less historically relevant rendition of "I'm Henry the VIII, I am! Henry the Eighth I am, I am." sung by Patrick Swayze in the film Ghost. But other than recalling that the second verse is, in fact, the same as the first -- and that ScarJo and NatPort wore some pretty dresses (and also discarded them qu...more Prior to reading To Die For my knowledge of the Tudor period of English history was pretty much limited to two specific, yet unrelated sources: a DVD rental of The Other Boleyn Girl, and the much less historically relevant rendition of "I'm Henry the VIII, I am! Henry the Eighth I am, I am." sung by Patrick Swayze in the film Ghost. But other than recalling that the second verse is, in fact, the same as the first -- and that ScarJo and NatPort wore some pretty dresses (and also discarded them quite a lot), I didn't possess much knowledge concerning Tudor times. After reading Sandra Byrd's engaging new novel, however, I've been educated in a most delightful and royal fashion.

HOW IT HIT ME:
Like a jeweled prayer book upside my head -- and into my heart.
In other words, even though I knew Anne Boleyn would meet her end (I'd seen The Other Boleyn Girl, remember?) Meg's fresh, first-person perspective on Anne, the Reformation Movement, and the court of King Henry VIII was rich with historical detail, tempered by courtly manners, and yet managed to remain personable, romantic, and achingly engaging.

WHAT MADE ME SQUIRM:
I wasn't sure what to expect from To Die For. I thought I knew Sandra's writing voice from other novels such as her French Twist Trilogy and the YA series, London Confidential. I respected her writing as tight, funny, smart, and (& here's the big one:) contemporary. I wasn't sure how she would translate that style onto the historical page.

But I needn't have worried. This novel is not only an extremely well-crafted historical, but a rich story, well-told. Packed with riveting action, palpable emotion, ratcheting tension, sweet romance, and a bevy of difficult, layered relationships, To Die For captivated me from the first chapter and I remained enthralled through the entirety of the novel. No. Squirming. Required.

TO READ, OR NOT TO READ; THAT IS THE QUESTION:
Through Meg's direct voice, Sandra Byrd demonstrates a clear bond of friendship with her characters. This first person point-of-view, somewhat unusual in a Historical, gives the tale a sense of immediacy as tensions and scandals build.

The author does not wax gratuitous over the mercurial Henry's bedroom habits, but neither does she deny the excesses of this much-married King and his court. Written with a bold finesse that will enable it to find a comfortable home on both mainstream and Christian bookshelves, To Die For is a novel worthy of a spot on any bookshelf and, once read, will beg for a second go. Read it. Read it. Read it.

To Die For celebrates the bond of friendship, the hope of love, the art of devotion, and the willingness to pursue the cause of Truth at great cost. I loved this book. -- And coming from a reader whose first choice is almost never a historical novel, that's huge.

(condensed from original review posted 8/9/11 at www.edgyinspirationalromance.com)(less)

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Nov 25, 2011 Katie rated it 5 of 5 stars

First posted on my blog, Legacy of a Writer.

Beautiful. Heartbreaking.

Those are two words that came to mind when I closed the book after reading the last chapter. Wow, what a beautifully tragic story To Die For is! I'd read, briefly, about the Boleyn sisters and, like many others, thought they were two scheming women who seduced the king to get the crown. But Sandra Byrd shows us that oftentimes, there is a lot more going on than meets the eye. ;-)

Through the eyes of Meg, Ann Boleyn dearest fri...more

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Feb 14, 2012 Joanna Handy rated it 1 of 5 stars

Having personally read many historical fiction and non-fiction I can normally tell if I will enjoy a book within a few pages, this book however differed in that it started so promisingly. Perhaps if I had know beforehand that the writer was a christain writer I would have known better what to expect and whilst I have read numerous books where the characters have discovered themselves through renewed faith for the most part the author used it as a way of focusing the reader on the plot and charac...more

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Aug 20, 2011 Cheryl Olson rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: review, historical-christian-fiction

“Hank the V-I-I-I put poor Katie by and married young Ann Boleyn who tried to please but she soon went wrong by singing her song all out of key, it was his masterpiece”. Well, these are the lyrics to a ditty that kept humming through my head from my Jr. High concert in 8th grade as I read this story about the ill-fated 2nd wife of King Henry the VIII. Admittedly the lyrics from this song were a bit on the corny side, with some “ hey nonny, nonny” type lines thrown in for good measure, but I ass...more “Hank the V-I-I-I put poor Katie by and married young Ann Boleyn who tried to please but she soon went wrong by singing her song all out of key, it was his masterpiece”. Well, these are the lyrics to a ditty that kept humming through my head from my Jr. High concert in 8th grade as I read this story about the ill-fated 2nd wife of King Henry the VIII. Admittedly the lyrics from this song were a bit on the corny side, with some “ hey nonny, nonny” type lines thrown in for good measure, but I assure you nothing about this book “To Die For” by Sandra Byrd was corny, but beautifully written from a new point of view. That would be from the point of view of Anne’s long time best friend, Meg Wyatt, as she is by Anne’s side while they are teens with crushes on boys all the way to the royal court and becoming her wardrobe mistress, watching Anne become a queen, and staying loyally by her side until her unfortunate death.

This story was beautifully woven together with wonderful intricacy in keeping the historical life of Anne Boleyn intact, while adding the wonderful fictional elements of the girl’s friendship as well. The
English Reformation elements to the novel were very well done and interesting to read as Sandra Byrd’s comments about the strength of Henry and how “God often uses the strongest beast, not the gentlest to plow the hardest fields” and how “what might have been intended for selfishness or evil and certainly did cause pain to those involved, eventually yielded a harvest of goodness.” These comments were taken from the Authors Q&A found at the back of the book and so very well said. I highly recommend the reader takes the time to read that section- so informative and interesting to read. One can shake their head at Henry and his utter selfishness, or see that good was accomplished in the middle of all the pain that transpired.

The character of Meg Wyatt is one to be admired for sure in her dedication to Anne Boleyn as a true and faithful friend. That’s not to say that she is not without her challenges and wrong turns here and there. Her life is not an easy one with an abusive father, a vindictive brother and at the outset of the novel finds out that the man she loves has chosen the route of becoming a priest. But even in the midst of all of her trials, she becomes a character that you are rooting for and one who is selfless until the very end, a tried and true friend. Since the story is told from Meg’s point of view, you really are hoping that all will be well for her in the end which makes the story so enchanting, because you obviously know what Anne’s fate will be, but with Meg being the heroine of the story it gives the tale a newness and intelligence that I fell in love with.

If you are a fan of “Tudor England” I have no doubt that you will truly enjoy this book. It was very well told and an engaging story that historical buff or not, I sincerely believe all would appreciate the writing, characters, and fascinating storyline presented in To Die For. Sandra Byrd has written many great YA fiction books that my daughters have thoroughly enjoyed in the past. It is a wonderful thing that we can now all share Sandra Byrd as an author whose work, we all have read and loved. 5 stars.

I graciously received a free copy of this book for review purposes from the publishing company. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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May 06, 2013 Arthistorychick rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction, historical-romance

To Die For: A Novel of Anne Boleyn by Sandra Byrd
Source: Purchase
Stars: 4/5

I don’t think I am ever going to get tired of reading Anne Boleyn’s story. I know her story, beginning, middle, and end, and yet I still keep picking up novels related to her life. Not unexpectedly then did Sandra Byrd’s To Die For: A Novel of Anne Boleyn catch my attention. I set upon this historical fiction read expecting what I have read in many other accounts of Anne Boleyn’s life; what I found was something wholly di...more To Die For: A Novel of Anne Boleyn by Sandra Byrd
Source: Purchase
Stars: 4/5

I don’t think I am ever going to get tired of reading Anne Boleyn’s story. I know her story, beginning, middle, and end, and yet I still keep picking up novels related to her life. Not unexpectedly then did Sandra Byrd’s To Die For: A Novel of Anne Boleyn catch my attention. I set upon this historical fiction read expecting what I have read in many other accounts of Anne Boleyn’s life; what I found was something wholly different and exciting.

To Die For opens in 1518, with Anne Boleyn still a maiden living in her father’s home. She is but a child and often found dallying with her best and most loyal friend, Meg Wyatt. The two girls are young, naïve, and living only for the moment when their respective father’s will make them a marriage match both agreeable and beneficial. For Anne, there is little concern this will happen as she is smart, beautiful, and from a respected and wealthy family bordering on noble. Meg Wyatt on the other hand is also intelligent and quite lovely but her family is neither as wealthy nor noble as Anne’s. Neither girl can imagine the journey they are to embark on in the ensuing years.

Byrd recounts what is historically known about Anne Boleyn’s life but is one of the very few authors who does not make Anne out to be a conniving, scheming, and heartless bitch bent only on achieving her own goals and desires. Instead, as Byrd traces the events of Anne’s life she takes care to present her as an intelligent girl who unfortunately falls prey to the desires of a man significantly more powerful and persuasive than herself. Anne is presented as a girl who well and truly loved Henry Tudor and wished nothing more than to be by his side and please him with the birth of a male heir. Furthermore, Byrd goes even further and presents Henry (as I have always imagined he was) as a grown and selfish child who repeatedly set aside or killed those he thought could no longer further his plans or fulfill his desires. As we well know, Anne was one of those who fell from Henry’s favor.

As Anne’s story progresses, she is attended almost constantly by her long-time friend Meg Wyatt. In her own way, Meg is just as tragic as Anne and is often subject to the whims of the men in her life – if she is parted from Anne, it is due to one of those whims. Meg feels called to be by Anne’s side and truly believes it is her duty to advise and guide Anne as well as to protect her at every turn. In many ways, Meg is far, far more intelligent and insightful than Anne and warns her friend of the trouble she will face at Henry’s side. Unfortunately, even Meg’s guidance will not be enough to save Anne from her fate.

The Bottom Line: I enjoyed this reading and accounting of Anne Boleyn’s life and very much appreciate that Byrd took care to present Anne as something more than she is often presented in historical fiction. I also appreciate that Byrd does not expound on every moment of lust and sex between Henry and Anne but focuses more on the issue at hand, the conversion of England from Catholicism to the Protestant faith which made Anne’s marriage to Henry possible. Bound in all of this is Meg Wyatt, a character who, to the very end remained loyal to her friend. Byrd has made sure to entwine Meg’s story with Anne’s thus creating a far more interesting account of these events. For those who are as fascinated by Anne Boleyn as I am, I heartily recommend this read as it is a refreshingly new view of an old story.(less)

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Mar 08, 2013 Dundee Library added it

Shelves: staff-favs-audrey

To Die For, by Sandra Byrd, is a great book for fans of the popular TV series, the Tudors, or for anyone who wants a private peek into the scandalous court of England’s notorious, King Henry XIII. What makes this story unique is that the main character happens to be Meg Wyatt, the best friend of Anne Boleyn, the woman who will capture the king’s attention and later, his judgment. Meg and Anne promise as young girls to be faithful friends, and after Meg’s disappointing marriage arrangement to a m...more

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Feb 05, 2013 Jamie rated it 5 of 5 stars

A few chapters into To Die For by Sandra Byrd, I had to hit up the world wide web and Wikipedia to find out more about the Boylen Family and King Henry VIII. After reading about both, all I have to say is those Brits were cray. I might even say cray, cray.

It’s easy to forget that kings and queens of old were normal people who had best friends they grew up with, boys/girls they crushed on before being given into marriage, gossip to deal with and wanted to make a difference.

Also, after reading thi...more A few chapters into To Die For by Sandra Byrd, I had to hit up the world wide web and Wikipedia to find out more about the Boylen Family and King Henry VIII. After reading about both, all I have to say is those Brits were cray. I might even say cray, cray.

It’s easy to forget that kings and queens of old were normal people who had best friends they grew up with, boys/girls they crushed on before being given into marriage, gossip to deal with and wanted to make a difference.

Also, after reading this book and my “intense” Wikipedia investigation into the Boleyn family I have to say the movie that came out in 2008 (the Other Boleyn sister) is a bit false. To say Mary was the innocent one as the movie portrayed, is a bit different from the historical figure who was rumored to have been a mistress of the King of France before being the mistress (and bearing two children) of King Henry. They was drama enough without having to change it.

Historical accuracy rant complete. :)

And King Henry VIII was a playa. Six marriages? Dang son!

Also how ridiculous it was for the church to think it punishable by death if you wanted to have scripture to read and discern for yourself. It helps me to appreciate the sacrifice and burden men like Luther and Tyndale took on so that people would be able to read the truth of the gospel for themselves.

Can you tell this novel had me 108% intrigued?

That’s one of the reasons I loved Byrd’s novel. She brought to life the Tudor world based upon tons of historical research (got a bit giddy with all the references and sources at the end to check out) and it helped to have fantastic and engaging writing.

And man did I have strong attachments or hatred for some characters. I’m pretty sure I called one of the malicious women in the story “you tramp ho..” out loud after one particular scene. Feel free to use that line if you ever have the need.

“And thus I take my leave of the world, and of you all, and I heartily desire you all to pray for me,” she finished.

In case you didn’t catch my vibe, yes I highly recommend it!

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Sep 03, 2012 Alice rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: christian, historical-fiction, the-royal-challenge

What do you do if your best friend is accused of a treasonous act? What if you know that it's not true? What if it doesn't matter? The fix is in. You can leave without penalty to your name and person. Everyone else is vacating, even her own flesh and blood.

That personal life you've sacrificed, in years of service to your friend, can now be yours. You've done enough, right? After all your friend is a little demanding and imperious...

Then there is the difficult choice. Stay with her to the end. T...more What do you do if your best friend is accused of a treasonous act? What if you know that it's not true? What if it doesn't matter? The fix is in. You can leave without penalty to your name and person. Everyone else is vacating, even her own flesh and blood.

That personal life you've sacrificed, in years of service to your friend, can now be yours. You've done enough, right? After all your friend is a little demanding and imperious...

Then there is the difficult choice. Stay with her to the end. This will involve risk. You may well suffer the same fate or worse. Talk about whether to do what is right or easy!

This is what Meg Wyatt, friend of Anne Boleyn, faces. During the book, we see the glamor of Tudor court life. We also see the treachery coupled with pettiness. The author, Sandra Byrd, shows that it is by turns enchanting, terrifying, and wearisome. The worst sin, it is shown, is first pretending to accept the lie, then rationalization, and then internal acceptance of the lie that enables the greatest cruelties.

It is the era of English Reformation. In the era of Henry VIII, to own an English Bible is to die a slow agonizing death as a heretic. Queen Anne Boleyn and Meg Wyatt are in the midst of this. History has shown that Anne Boleyn was at least interested in the ideas of Luther's Reform.

I read this book in a little under a week. It was enjoyable and it made me think. Even if you are not a Christian it offers reading pleasure if you let it. I know many readers have taken issue with the Christianity in the novel. (Full disclosure: I am a Christian) It is enough of a problem for some readers to give the book:To Die For: A Novel of Anne Boleyn|10092857] one star. Authors that write with an atheistic or Marxist perspectives are praised and hardly ever accused of dogma.

I have found much modern Christian fiction to be a disappointment. The characters seem too good to be true and any crisis seems to easily resolved. The tone is often full of treacle. This is not true of Ms. Byrd's novel novel.

I am also glad to see this novel in the regular Fiction sections of book stores. If a book is in any other fiction section it tends to stay within the choir of genre fans. This is a shame but is the subject for another post.

In summary, this novel was so enjoyable that I will read Ms. Byrd's next novel of Queen Elizabeth.(less)

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Dec 29, 2011 Sarah rated it 4 of 5 stars

I have read a lot of historical fiction surrounding Anne Boleyn's life as she is one of my favorite misunderstood women in history. This is one of the first novels that has focused a little more on the religious aspect of the English Reformation and Anne's role in changing England's religious background forever. I think the author could have delved farther into the religion aspect but I understand the average reader might be put off by more fact than fiction in a novel obviously labeled as "fict...more

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Dec 07, 2011 Lucy rated it 1 of 5 stars

I ought to have learned my lesson by now, really. If I see a "Tudor" historical fiction whose cover features headless ladies with an impressive amount of square-necked cleavage, walk away. Still, I have a thing for Anne Boleyn. So many people have different ideas about her, and I'm always curious about whether authors are going to be pro or against, despite the historical facts, which lead me feel comfortable with ambivalence.

So I borrowed To Die For: A Novel of Anne Boleyn despite the unsettlin...more I ought to have learned my lesson by now, really. If I see a "Tudor" historical fiction whose cover features headless ladies with an impressive amount of square-necked cleavage, walk away. Still, I have a thing for Anne Boleyn. So many people have different ideas about her, and I'm always curious about whether authors are going to be pro or against, despite the historical facts, which lead me feel comfortable with ambivalence.

So I borrowed To Die For: A Novel of Anne Boleyn despite the unsettlingly Valley Girl-like title. The protagonist is Meg Wyatt, presented as Anne Boleyn's BFF. I know that Anne Boleyn was mighty close to Meg's brother Thomas Wyatt, but this is actually the first time I've heard of Meg Wyatt as confidante to the courtier-turned-queen. Still, a fiction writer is allowed to take some liberties to present a fresh POV, right?

Whatever Meg Wyatt was like in real life, she emerges as a lackluster heroine at best. But the real trouble started when Meg's perspective seemes even more naive than that of even the most credulous of friends. It quickly becomes clear that this is because the author's perspective is just as naive, or more likely, somewhat biased. For example, Anne, in this novel, emerges as a woman deeply in love with Henry VIII, rather than the somewhat ruthless climber she appears to have been in real life. She is also portrayed as sincerely believing in the premise for Henry's divorce of Katherine of Aragon (that she had consummated her brief marriage to Henry's brother Arthur and that by Church law the seocnd marriage was incestuous). Even Katherine's worst enemies did not believe this (although it was in their interests to go along with it) and at any rate there had already been a Papal dispensation to deal with it. (Item: Henry's marriage to Anne was also incestuous, as he'd had her sister Mary--another victim of romance novel liberties--as a mistress.)

In fact, in this version, Anne's other reason for wanting to marry Henry (besides, true love, of course, of course)is to promote the cause of Protestant reform in England. Boleyn certainly was a fan of reform--she elevated as many reformist priests as she could during her brief reign as queen of England--but reform was as much of a means to end as a conviction: she needed Henry to assume control of the Church in England in order to get past the Pope's refusal to grant the divorce from Katherine.

Then there's the matter of the secret marriage. Historians seem to agree that Anne, fearing that the famously fickle Henry was about to slip from her grasp after seven years of withholding her favors, withheld them no longer during the trip to France in 1532. Some time after this there was a secret wedding in England. In Byrd's version the secret marriage happens in France before the consummation. Phew--no premarital sex.

This aroused my suspicions and I finally flipped to the writer's bio. Ah. She is a mentor in the Christian Writers' Guild. Unless I'm mistaken and there are any number of Roman Catholics and Orthodox Christians jostling each other at the guild meetings, I'm guessing this is really a Protestant Writers' Guild. Hence the purity of the reformists' goals, the hard-to-believe consensus of opinion concerning Henry's motives in wanting to end his "incestuous" marriage to Katherine, and especially the all-important secret marriage before Anne and Hnery's long-delayed buck-a-wow. And even Meg Wyatt's puzzling inability to find a lover at court--you don't have to have watched The Tudors to know that premarital and extramarital sex was easy to come by at Henry's court--it was Elizabeth I who would prove to be a hard-ass about it. Finally it explains the somewhat intrusive episodes of Meg's struggles with faith.

I didn't finish the book. After all I know what happened to Anne, and the writing wasn't good enough to keep my interest. Anne Boleyn was certainly innocent of the charges that sealed her fate, but to argue that she was innocent of the ambition, ruthlessness and hubris that propelled her rise to the top strains the imagination--even in fiction.(less)

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Dec 02, 2011 Colleen Turner rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I reviewed this book for www.readerunboxed.com

As any fan of historical fiction can attest there is no shortage of books based on the Tudors. While I personally cannot get enough of this fiery brood it can seem to some like a constant loop of the same stories with only minor variations. It is rare to find a new spin to the dramatic story of Henry VIII and his second wife, Anne Boleyn, but Sandra Byrd has found a way to do this by placing Anne and Henry in pivotal but ultimately secondary roles to...more I reviewed this book for www.readerunboxed.com

As any fan of historical fiction can attest there is no shortage of books based on the Tudors. While I personally cannot get enough of this fiery brood it can seem to some like a constant loop of the same stories with only minor variations. It is rare to find a new spin to the dramatic story of Henry VIII and his second wife, Anne Boleyn, but Sandra Byrd has found a way to do this by placing Anne and Henry in pivotal but ultimately secondary roles to a bright, spunky heroine who followed her heart regardless of how close it brought her to danger.

In To Die For Meg Wyatt is such a colorful, endearing character that I wish she could pop right out of the book and come grab a coffee with me. She is a solid, loyal friend to those she loves and while she learns throughout the novel that there is a time and a place to share ones thoughts and opinions she never wavers in her determination to remain true to what she believes. While it seems strange to my modern mentality to have one best friend serving the other and for them to remain on some sort of equal footing as friends, Ms. Byrd finds a way for Anne to help Meg grow as a person of some importance in a lively and dangerous court while Meg is able to keep Anne grounded, at least in some respects.

One of my favorite aspect of the book was watching the children of three well-to-do families (The Boleyns, The Wyatts and the Ogilvys), all raised and educated together, grow up and try to navigate the world they find themselves in whether they like it or not. None of their lives progress as they initially envision and the disappointment of lost dreams seems, in most instances, inevitable. How they handle the limitations placed on them showcases who will eventually find happiness and who will fall victim to the society in which they live. I think many people can relate to this storyline, which helps endear the characters that much more to the reader.

The arguments for duty vs. free will and tradition vs. reformation abound throughout the story but, for me, it is the basic premise of a childhood friend willing to risk it all, even the only man she has ever loved, for a friend brought so high she is bound to fall that continues to resonate with me. This is definitely a “pro Anne” story and it was refreshing seeing Anne as a determined but kind natured young woman as opposed to the she-wolf so many books depict her as. It appears that To Die For is just the first in a series of “Ladies in Waiting” novels by Sandra Byrd due to come out and I know I, for one, am ready to see what hidden gems of heroines Ms. Byrd brings into the light for us to admire and champion.(less)

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Sep 20, 2011 Sam rated it 5 of 5 stars

Of all the perceptions regarding historical figures, the views on Anne Boleyn are arguably the most polarized. Thoughts on her range from a feminist model of the time to a harlot. Unfortunately, most authors take the simple route and describe her as a seductress enchanting the king, taking no notice of her acts of charity and other more positive characteristics.

So after a while, weary from the inaccurate portrayals of Anne Boleyn, I stopped reading Tudor novels altogether. When I first heard of...more Of all the perceptions regarding historical figures, the views on Anne Boleyn are arguably the most polarized. Thoughts on her range from a feminist model of the time to a harlot. Unfortunately, most authors take the simple route and describe her as a seductress enchanting the king, taking no notice of her acts of charity and other more positive characteristics.

So after a while, weary from the inaccurate portrayals of Anne Boleyn, I stopped reading Tudor novels altogether. When I first heard of TO DIE FOR, I thought to myself, "It's just another Tudor novel." However, after learning that the author had consulted a historian during the writing process, I requested and received a copy for review.

And having read it, I can say that I was so glad I did.

The story centers around Meg Wyatt, a childhood friend of Anne Boleyn. Meg, despite going through turmoils of her own, stays loyal to her friend. When Anne rises to power so does Meg. But when Anne fails to produce a male heir, the king's passionate love turns to hate, and Meg is forced to choose between her safety and her friend.

One aspect of the novel which just blew me away was the historical accuracy. The few changes from history to fiction were for the reader's benefit, rather than the author's own portrayal of the characters. The depictions of the historical figures were spot on: Henry is as fickle as history describes him and Anne is the woman who happens to fall in love with such a man.

For once, Anne Boleyn has her justice. She is not a "witch", rather a woman determined to protect her maidenhood. Anne, unfortunately, falls in love with a narcissistic man who cares for few other than himself. Her ideas for the Reformation, along with her crucial role in it, are brought to light---FINALLY!

Meg also shines and has her moments. She embodies traits that so few main female characters display today, most notably her unwavering loyalty for her friend. Just as Anne, she is a victim of the culture at the time. However, her allegiance and headstrong character won my admiration from the start.

I don't want to give away spoilers, so I'll just put it this way: the ending had me bawling, even though I knew what was coming. Anyone with the slightest interest in Tudor History should give this book a shot; it had me on the edge of my chair until the end.

Rating: 9/10(less)

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Sep 12, 2011 Natalie rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Sandra Byrd’s ‘To Die For: A Novel of Anne Boleyn’ was the only ‘Tudor comfort’ I allowed myself on a recent family vacation and boy am I glad I took this treasure along!

It is the story of Anne Boleyn told through the eyes of her friend and confidante, Meg Wyatt but Meg is much more than just a narrator. She is a complex and engaging character with her own intriguing story to tell and I found myself drawn to her from the first page.

Through Meg, the Anne that emerges is a remarkable woman, witty...more Sandra Byrd’s ‘To Die For: A Novel of Anne Boleyn’ was the only ‘Tudor comfort’ I allowed myself on a recent family vacation and boy am I glad I took this treasure along!

It is the story of Anne Boleyn told through the eyes of her friend and confidante, Meg Wyatt but Meg is much more than just a narrator. She is a complex and engaging character with her own intriguing story to tell and I found myself drawn to her from the first page.

Through Meg, the Anne that emerges is a remarkable woman, witty and determined but not without faults. It is Anne’s complexity that I find addictive, the fact that she was intelligent, loyal, courageous and charitable but on the flip side could also be calculating, with a fiery temper. Through Meg we see these different sides to Anne but always with the tenderness of a loyal friend who has Anne’s best interests at heart.

Although we know Anne’s fate, it is Meg’s that keeps us on the edge of our seats. Anne’s rise to power and fall from grace are not the only joys and challenges we experience. Meg’s own story is captivating and heartfelt. I was unable to put the book down, as I was desperate to find out how things would work out for Meg and whether or not her fate would mirror that of her childhood friend – the queen.

The story is beautifully written and on several occasions reduced me to tears as I felt so much a part of the lives of these two amazing women. It is also very well researched, always a plus in my eyes!

The novel has a strong religious element but not one that I found overpowering. On the contrary, I found it bathed the novel in hope and made me feel an even stronger connection to the characters.

‘To Die For’ is truly a breath of fresh air and offers an original take on a well-worn story. I enjoyed every moment of it and highly recommend it.

I look forward to more Tudor fiction from this wonderful author.

Read a guest article Sandra wrote for On the Tudor Trail entitled ‘The Art of Courtly Love: Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII’ here:
http://onthetudortrail.com/Blog/anne-... (less)

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Sep 10, 2011 Bookworm rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

About:
Best friends Meg Wyatt and Anne Boleyn grew up together in Kent. When Anne is sent to live at King Henry VIII's Court, Meg follows soon after.
Meg herself lived a difficult life at home, her father having been a harsh man and often beating her. She falls in love with Will Ogilvy, but when he is sent off to become a priest, her heart is shattered.
Not before long, Meg's father arranges a marriage for her, to a man who is decades older and whom she could never possibly love.
Life at court is...more

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Aug 15, 2011 Jules rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: sent-4-review, reviewed, blog-tour

4.5 JEWELS rating - See my full review + GIVEAWAY at http://onebookshy.blogspot.com

Anne Boleyn has been a subject of fascination for me for many years. I tend to read any new book that comes along relating to her or the Tudor dynasty. To Die For is the newest addition to this sub-genre of historical fiction. It has earned 4.5 Jewels from me as well as a prominent place on my personal library's keeper shelf.

Sandra Byrd has taken the well documented historical figure of Anne Boleyn and given us a...more

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Mar 28, 2013 Salyna rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: extremely-emotional, little-romance

This was a great read, but I'm having a hard time coming up with stuff to say about it without giving important information away. So please bare with me...

This was the first book I have read by Sandra Byrd and it was heart wrenching for me, but that does not mean I didn't like it. The book was full of romance, lust, and betrayal. It was a very interesting read and it had me hooked.

I liked how this book was told through the eyes of Anne Boleyns life long best friend Meg. With it being written lik...more

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Jun 30, 2012 Olga Crickhollow Books rated it 4 of 5 stars

Sandra Byrd portrays the rise and fall of Anne Boleyn through the eyes of her close friend, Meg Wyatt. While Anne Boleyn could never really fade into the background this is really Meg’s story. Meg is the younger sister of Thomas Wyatt, the second daughter in a family ruled by a formidable and often tyrannical father. Meg certainly has her share of heartache and disappointment while she watches her childhood companion grow into a glamorous and intelligent young woman who captures the heart of the...more

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Oct 13, 2011 Jen Miller rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: own

I almost gave up on this book, I'm glad I didn't.

I generally do not read Christian fiction. Ok, I never read Christian fiction and I haven't since I was a young girl. And not because I'm not a Christian, but maybe because the books that were pressed upon me as a "tween" were horrible, brow-beating, and cheesy.

"To Die For" was not shelved in the "Christian Fiction" section of our library. (We live in a very conservative, religious town.) I never peruse that section. I saw "Anne Boleyn" and was...more

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Aug 05, 2011 Whitney rated it 5 of 5 stars

To Die For
Sandra Byrd
Historical Fiction
5 out of 5

I am a huge fan of historical fiction, but I’m also a very picky reader. When I first picked up To Die For I was very skeptical. I have read several of Sandra Byrd’s contemporary fiction books and enjoyed them. I just wasn’t sure about how she would do with this new genre. I am happy to report that Sandra blew me away.

The story of Anne Boleyn has been told by numerous authors over the years. Most of those pieces of work center on the downright taw...more

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Jan 26, 2013 Mikaela Lönnqvist rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: my-favourites, i-own-these, medievalness-fiction-non-fiction

I have to admit, sometimes I buy books because I like the covers, and it is not always what I hoped for, but this time I was pleasantly surprised.

I didn't even pay attention to the fact that this was so-called "Christian fiction" as many have pointed out, because why wouldn't a book about people living in Tudor times be of a Christian character? The Tudor era was indeed very religious and their daily lives were affected by religious duties. I'm not a Christian, not religious at all, and after r...more

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Sep 03, 2011 Susan rated it 4 of 5 stars

I love the medieval period, and by extension, the Tudor period. I was blessed to receive a Lilly Endowment grant years back, which I spent researching the period in Jolly Ole England itself. Then a few years later, I got a National Endowment for the Humanities grant to study the wives of Henry VIII. Pure bliss! (Do you know how English children remember what happened to Henry’s wives? divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived).

Which of those fates befell wife Anne Boleyn? That’s the...more

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Dec 07, 2011 Rio (Lynne) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction, library-book

I probably would not have read this, had it not been in my view at the library. I am well versed with Anne Boleyn (as she is my favorite of Henry's Wives) but I felt like there wasn't anything new for me to read about her. In this story, the author brings a fresh angle with the friendship of Anne and Meg Wyatt. They did grow up together and there is some proof that Meg was with Anne during these years. The author brings us a fictional story about Meg, but admits in her author's notes how she tri...more

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Mar 28, 2013 Anne Osterlund rated it 3 of 5 stars

Meg is a member of the “newly hatched” aristocracy in Tudor England. She has an abusive father, an untrustworthy brother, and a former suitor who feels called to the priesthood. In an era when women have neither the right to work for a living, nor marry without the aid of a substantial dowry, her life, in short, is on tenterhooks.

Except for her friendship with Anne Boleyn. Anne, herself, is far from the established elite. But when the king of England expresses an interest, Anne embraces the oppo...more

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Aug 04, 2011 Christy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites

Sandra Byrd has been on my favorite authors list since I read her first adult novel back in 2008--Let Them Eat Cake. Ever since then, her books have become ones that I pick up immediately without a second thought because I know they will be that good. To Die For was no exception, and now that Sandra has made this transition into the world of Christian historical fiction, I have no idea how she'll ever be able to choose between writing it or contemporary fiction in the future!

So, with all that s...more Sandra Byrd has been on my favorite authors list since I read her first adult novel back in 2008--Let Them Eat Cake. Ever since then, her books have become ones that I pick up immediately without a second thought because I know they will be that good. To Die For was no exception, and now that Sandra has made this transition into the world of Christian historical fiction, I have no idea how she'll ever be able to choose between writing it or contemporary fiction in the future!

So, with all that said, let me just tell you how exquisite this book was! Breathtaking, majestic, heartbreaking, and anguishing...all of those words poured into my mind as I read the glorious, but tragic, story of Anne Boleyn. Only this wasn't a story just about Anne and her love for Henry VIII; it also included Anne's faithful childhood friend, Meg Wyatt. Truly, until this book, I had never heard anything about Meg Wyatt, and I can't remember when I last read a book that showed what true loyalty and constant friendship is all about. Meg had so many opportunities to leave the court life, to withdraw as one of Anne's ladies-in-waiting, but she remained faithful to her call to serve until the very end. I pitied her unfortunate relationships with her father and brother, but her circumstances were true to the time period. Women had nothing back then, unless it was provided through a man, and were extremely restricted in the decisions they made, particularly in regards to marriage. How glad I am that society has progressed since then--I am far too strong-willed to have survived!

This novel was written so masterfully that I can’t count the number of times I had to look at the front cover to be sure that I was actually reading a book by Sandra! She grasped the Tudor period and its customs so well that I felt fully immersed its culture. The language of that time was so eloquent and proper that people didn’t spout off the first thing that came to their mind. It was a time where words had the power to sentence a man to death, so one had to be extra careful of what was spoken and how it could potentially be interpreted. Also, the descriptions of the food and clothing were enough to make me drool! Multiple-course feasts, hundreds of castles and palaces, and dresses with golden threads woven through the cloth portrayed the extreme wealth and grandeur of the King of England and his courtiers. Sandra skillfully captured every aspect of this grand era in such a way that I felt like a part of the story. That, my friends, makes her one talented author. :o)

I haven't the slightest clue what Sandra has up her sleeve for her next novel, but I know one thing...it can't get here quick enough! For those (like me) who can't get enough of Tudor history, England, or The Royals in general, this stunning book would make an excellent addition to your reading fare, and I guarantee you won't be disappointed. To Die For was one of the best novels I've had the pleasure of reading all year, and has earned a well-deserved place on my keeper shelf. Highly Recommended!

5 Stars(less)

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Dec 23, 2011 Kayla rated it 4 of 5 stars

This book is incredibly accurate in regards to history, and I enjoyed it. I also enjoyed Meg's story... I'm so familiar with Anne's story, so it was refreshing to have another story within Anne's that I did not know the outcome of. I also enjoyed the difference of this book compared to many other Tudors fiction.

I'm still not sure if I'm happy about this portrayal of Anne though. I'm not sure if it was because she wasn't the principal character, but I felt like something was missing, spending mos...more

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Feb 18, 2013 Bonnie-ann rated it 5 of 5 stars

Brilliant. Beautiful. Moving and plausible -- words frequently not used when reviewing all of the new novelizations of Anne Boleyn's life. Ms. Byrd tells the ill-fated queen's story through the eyes of Thomas Wyatt's sister, Meg, a lifelong friend of the Boleyn queen. There are gaps and mistakes and poetic license taken by the author, but the story flowed and I couldn't stop listening.

This is technically "Christian fiction" and should be read accordingly. There are no long Bible verses, stuck ra...more

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Dec 07, 2011 Courtney rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: christian-historical-fiction, for-review

I have never read anything before that retells the story of what life would have been like for Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII. I have heard the story before but it was really enjoyable to read a fiction based side of what Meg and Anne’s friendship would be like. Of course most of the time I just wanted to strangle Henry VIII myself but I think that is what makes this an accurate description!

I had a bit of a hard time reading about what life was like for Meg and Anne. I really admired how strong of a...more

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Nov 01, 2011 Lananorris rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Wonderful read for fans of Tudor History and Anne Boleyn in particular. Historically accurate and a truly fresh interpretation of the events surrounding the Reformation of the Church in England. Unfortunately for him, Henry VIII still turns out to be the bad guy. But fortunately for her, Anne Boleyn is vindicated as a person; not a monster or a schemer or a whore, but a fallible human being who on balance was a good woman with flaws and faults and regrets.
The perspective was interesting and orig...more

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