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To Die For: A Novel of Anne Boleyn

(Ladies in Waiting #1)

Sandra Byrd (Goodreads Author)

3.95 · Rating details · 3,020 ratings · 250 reviews

To Die For is a Library Journal "Best Books of 2011" pick.

What would you sacrifice for your best friend?
Would you die for her?

Meg Wyatt has been Anne Boleyn's closest friend since they grew up together on neighboring manors in Kent. So when twenty-five-year-old Anne's star begins to ascend, of course she takes Meg along for the ride.

Life in the court of Henry VIII is ...more

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Paperback, 332 pages

Published August 9th 2011 by Howard Books (first published February 18th 2011)

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Lists with This Book

The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory

The Six Wives of Henry VIII by Alison Weir

The Boleyn Inheritance by Philippa Gregory

The Constant Princess by Philippa Gregory

Best Books About Tudor England

593 books — 1,567 voters

The Healer's Apprentice by Melanie Dickerson

Best Christian Fiction Book Covers

936 books — 877 voters

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Start your review of To Die For: A Novel of Anne Boleyn (Ladies in Waiting, #1)

Aug 29, 2013 Alyssa marked it as to-read

I will definitely have to read this book now since I just discovered Meg Wyatt is my 15th great-grandmother. :)

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Jul 20, 2018 Staci rated it really liked it

Shelves: read-in-2018

Fascinating look at the life of Anne Boleyn. The historical detail about her life as well as Henry VIII was riveting. I also enjoyed how the author wove the fictional story of lady in waiting Meg Wyatt to tell the story in first person. Enjoyable.

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Sep 25, 2011 Jane rated it really liked it

Shelves: fiction

Original review 10/1/11

Where I got the book: purchased on Kindle.

This book was recommended to me by another author, as an example of how an author can portray a historical character from the point of view of a friend. This technique, and the Christian angle, are what set Byrd's book apart from the many kings-and-queens novels written about the Tudor era--Philippa Gregory is the inevitable example of the narrower point of view.

The shifting of the POV means that the author can stay true to the ...more

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Dec 07, 2011 Lucy rated it did not like it

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 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. ...more

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Aug 08, 2011 Orsolya rated it it was ok

Shelves: historical-fiction, queens, tudor-england, library-2, mistresses-royalty, henry-viii-s-wives

Everyone knows the fate of Anne Boleyn. However, few know the story from the viewpoint of Anne’s childhood friend: Meg Wyatt (sister of Thomas Wyatt, known for being a speculated paramour of Anne’s). Sandra Byrd takes this creative angle of Anne in “To Die For: A Novel of Anne Boleyn”.

“To Die For” caused instant weariness due to the genealogical tables firmly asserting that Mary Boleyn’s offspring were sired by Henry VIII. Although this may be a minor detail to some; such a deliverance of Everyone knows the fate of Anne Boleyn. However, few know the story from the viewpoint of Anne’s childhood friend: Meg Wyatt (sister of Thomas Wyatt, known for being a speculated paramour of Anne’s). Sandra Byrd takes this creative angle of Anne in “To Die For: A Novel of Anne Boleyn”.

“To Die For” caused instant weariness due to the genealogical tables firmly asserting that Mary Boleyn’s offspring were sired by Henry VIII. Although this may be a minor detail to some; such a deliverance of speculation questions the historical accuracy of both Byrd and the novel.

Although the angle of “To Die For” is creative and unique; the execution is flawed. The setting is not vivid and lacks true historical context making “To Die For” feel more fictional than history. The text also lacks cohesiveness as the language (in terms of character dialogue) is beautiful and historical but then too modern, clearly demonstrating inconsistency.

Furthermore, Meg’s character development is also lacking. Missing depth, dimensions, and a look into Meg’s psyche; the reader doesn’t grow a relationship with her. This reflects on “To Die For” which is a very light and quick novel and feels like a YA piece. In fact, “To Die For” is too fast-paced causing the book to be more of a summary of events rushing toward some large event rather than living the events and building excitement and tension.

“To Die For” slightly improves as the story progresses but it still lacks complexity and the full exposure which could be provided via Meg. The novel is best suited for those new to the topic versus well-versed Tudor readers looking for more. Although, on a positive note, Byrd includes letters and poems in full which are accurately quoted and add historical accuracy.

Another (minor) detail which irked me was Byrd’s use of the phrase “of certes” MULTIPLE TIMES ON EVERY PAGE as if she just discovered it and wanted to stress its usage. The Author’s Notes also had a spelling error on page 329. Again, these are minor perhaps, but it wonders where the editor was…

Byrd’s view on Anne is refreshing as it doesn’t procure her as vindictive or scheming; but her role is “too” good and lacks a middle ground. Byrd even offers that Anne tried to be friends with Princess Mary. Plus, the relationship between Meg and Anne is hardly explored which seemed to be the point of the novel and the special element that it claimed to have.

The conclusion (and we all know how Anne’s story ends) was the most emotional, and in turn, memorable portion of the novel although it was too rushed and not in depth. The Author’s Notes also didn’t fully clarify the historical liberties which could have been useful to a non-Tudorphile.

Overall, “To Die For” is a light, filler novel which is best as a more mindless read for those versed on the topic or best for those who are not. I would (and will) reader Byrd’s other works but I won’t expect more than a fast, quick novel (which, I admit, is sometimes needed: mindless entertainment).
...more

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Jul 01, 2011 Serena Chase rated it it was amazing

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 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) ...more

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Jun 30, 2011 Amanda rated it really liked it

Yes, another Anne Boleyn novel. They seem to be coming off an assembly line. Mistress Bolyen has been explored so much lately in popular fiction, TV and nonfiction lately that I'm getting a little sick of her. Not only is Anne being overused, but so is Henry VIII and his entire Tudor court. Sure, it's hard to not enjoy the soap opera-like life of Henry VIII with his six wives and countless mistresses, but really- enough already!

This was exactly what I was thinking when I saw To Die For. How Yes, another Anne Boleyn novel. They seem to be coming off an assembly line. Mistress Bolyen has been explored so much lately in popular fiction, TV and nonfiction lately that I'm getting a little sick of her. Not only is Anne being overused, but so is Henry VIII and his entire Tudor court. Sure, it's hard to not enjoy the soap opera-like life of Henry VIII with his six wives and countless mistresses, but really- enough already!

This was exactly what I was thinking when I saw To Die For. How could it be worthwhile when I already know how the story is going to end, and there isn't any way they could change it? But, since I had the opportunity to read the book through Simon & Schuster's Galley Grab program, I thought it would be worthwhile to at least check out. May be a good summer read, and I could get my Anne on.

But, To Die For was different from the multitude of Anne Boleyn novels out there. Instead of following Anne's story exclusively, To Die For tells Anne's story through the eyes of her best friend, Meg Wyatt. The sister of the somewhat famous Thomas Wyatt, Meg had lessons alongside Anne, her sister Mary and her brother George in their younger years. While Meg hears or sees little of Anne after she Anne goes to France, their paths cross again when Anne and Meg is married off in a loveless marriage. Though she is soon widowed, Meg finds herself at court, and thoroughly pulled into the tangled threads of Anne's intrigue with the king, and her ambition to get rid of Katherine and take the crown.

What fused this novel so much refreshing originality was the use of Meg as the narrator, so readers could enjoy something unexpected by experiencing her story. Though it was mostly fictional, Meg's tale is based on some known facts about her life, and naturally and easily intersects with Anne's well-documented rise to power and ultimate fall from the king's favor.

Told in excellent prose, author Sandra Byrd weaves together fact and fiction do perfectly, that most readers won't be able to tell the difference. Byrd does a great job of painting the period while ] exploring the character's world and portraying Anne as a sympathetic, yet ambitious woman whose luck simply ran out.

Highly recommended for fans of Tudor-era fiction. ...more

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Feb 14, 2012 Joanna Johnson rated it did not like it

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 ...more

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Mar 28, 2011 Margaret Chind rated it it was amazing

Recommended to Margaret by: Libby Reed

Shelves: howard-books, 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 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.*

posted: http://creativemadnessmama.com/blog/2... ...more

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Oct 14, 2011 Katie rated it it was amazing

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 ...more

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Mar 25, 2011 Brenda rated it really liked it

Shelves: historical-fiction

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 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) ...more

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Dec 02, 2011 Rio (Lynne) rated it really liked it

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 ...more

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Jun 17, 2011 Cheryl Olson rated it it was amazing

Shelves: historical-christian-fiction, review

“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 “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.

...more

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Nov 12, 2011 Shantelle rated it it was amazing

Shelves: christian-fiction, adult, medieval-renaissance-500-1700, historical, on-my-bookshelf, reviewed, five-star, read-in-2012, romance

Almost utterly devasting... but still a great work of fiction, and a masterful story, bringing to the life the tragedies of Anne Boleyn. And in the end, a hope of love and peace comes for the ever faithful and broken Meg.

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Dec 11, 2016 Jerry rated it liked it

Good...but no favorite of mine.

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Jul 22, 2018 Bookish Ally rated it really liked it

“Commend me to the king, and tell him that he has been ever constant in his course of advancing me. From a private gentlewoman he made me a marchioness from marchioness to queen; and now he hath left no higher degree of earthly honor he intends to crown my innocency with the glory of martyrdom” - Anne Boleyn

4.25 stars for a book which lends a poignant perspective from a devoted friend, that of Mistress of the Wardrobe to her Grace the Queen, Meg Wyatt.

I’ve seen that this book has garnered some ...more

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Aug 19, 2019 Jasmine rated it really liked it

Having read my fair share of Anne Boleyn novels it's often hard to find something that really blows me away. Anne Boleyn's story is one that has been told numerous times now. This book didn't do anything new with the story, nor did it try to propagate some wild theory or bring in outside facts that didn't line up. Rather Sandra Byrd did a good job of using all the existing evidence but doing it in a way that made Anne seem like a real person. It was easy to feel sympathetic for Anne in the way ...more

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Sep 20, 2011 Sam rated it it was amazing

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 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 ...more

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Sep 12, 2011 Natalie Grueninger rated it it was amazing · 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 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-... ...more

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Sep 02, 2011 Sarah rated it liked it

3 stars if you already have a good library of Tudor HF, 4 stars if you've just started your Tudormania.

Both the the strength and weakness of this book is its main character. Meg Wyatt, lifelong friend of Anne Boleyn, makes for an interesting narrator, since she has an up-close-and-personal view of the events in the Tudor court that perhaps not every other courtier had. However, it felt like Meg was given 90% of her characterization in the first 20 pages of the book. After that, she was just a ...more

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Apr 13, 2011 Renee rated it it was amazing

Every so often a book is written that completely overcomes all expectations you have for a genre. To Die For by Sandra Byrd is that novel. Not only does it bring to the forefront issues of faith but loyalty and the importance of sisterly affection between friends in a way that males you forget you're reading fiction. Fans of Tudor England and the life of Anne Boleyn will love this story regardless if they like Christian fiction or not. Byrd deftly ties in the faith of the characters with the ...more

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Jul 01, 2011 Melanie rated it really liked it

Shelves: review-books

What would you sacrifice for your best friend? Would you die for her?

Meg Wyatt has been Anne Boleyn's best friend since they were girls growing up on neighboring manors in Kent. And it's no surprise that when Anne's status starts to rise, she takes Meg along for the ride.

Attending court, attention from the king, it all seems glamorous at first, but then it turns deadly.

I really enjoyed 'To Die For'. There was a lot of history, even though this was a fictitious tale. Much of the stuff that was ...more

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Oct 03, 2011 chucklesthescot rated it liked it

Shelves: historical, monarchy, fiction, tudors-wotr

Meg Wyatt grew up as a friend of Anne Boleyn and was at Court to witness Anne catch the eye of King Henry VIII. Meg's own childhood was an unhappy one in a cold household with a brutal father and dying mother, both determined to marry her off to old men at Court. All Meg wants is to be there for Anne and to marry her childhood friend Will who is to become a priest.

This book is a different retelling of the story of Anne Boleyn's rise to power as Queen, but having the story through Meg was quite ...more

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Jul 16, 2011 Angelc rated it really liked it

3.5 Stars

Perhaps there is such a thing as too much Anne Boleyn. Having read other books about Anne, I felt like a lot of this book was a rehash of a story I already knew.

One thing that was new about this version was something that I liked a lot. The author portrayed Anne as human, not a manipulative monster. The Anne we've read about before probably wouldn't have even been capable of having a real friend, let alone one so nice as Meg. Anne is still a force to be reckoned with, but we get to see ...more

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Mar 21, 2013 Anne Osterlund rated it liked it

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 ...more

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Apr 11, 2012 Elysium rated it liked it

Shelves: bookmooch, books-i-own, read-in-2012, historical, tudor

3.5 stars

Meg Wyatt grew up as a neighbor to Anne Boleyn and the two were best friends since childhood. When Anne is sent to court in the service of the king’s sister, Meg is married off to an elderly baron while her heart belongs to Will Ogilvy who chooses priesthood over her.
But when Anne starts to rise at court, Meg joins her as one of Anne’s ladies and finds herself in the middle of court intrigue.

I really liked the idea of telling the story from the point of view of Anne’s friend and it ...more

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Aug 17, 2011 Christy English rated it really liked it · review of another edition

I loved this vision of Anne Boleyn, but I loved even more the character of Meg, who stands by her friend through the best and worst times of her life. A fresh look at the Tudor court, the Reformation in England, and Anne Boleyn herself. This is a good one.

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Jul 28, 2011 Beth rated it really liked it

Shelves: 2012, historical-fiction, won, favorites-2012

Loved this unique perspective of Anne Boleyn.

Thanks to Cheryl at her blog The Power of Story for hosting the giveaway!

http://powerofstory.blogspot.com/

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Oct 14, 2018 Amy Gieser rated it really liked it

4 for a Very well written account of Anne Boleyn. Byrd knows how to weave an interesting story around a big historical figure. Note however that a book written about Henry Vlll and Anne is not going to be suitable for anyone unmarried no matter how well done. There are just that many details to be acknowledged in their history. Nevertheless it is fascinating to read of this time in history which brought about so much change. Byrd does pretty well in writing of the reformation from a Protestant ...more

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Dec 11, 2019 Kelley rated it liked it

Shelves: christian-clean, historical-fiction, book-group-books

3.5 stars. A solidly written story that presents the life of Anne Boleyn in a fresh, new way. In Byrd's retelling, Anne is a devout woman in love trying to shepherd in positive religious changes in the England by her support of the Reformation.

The book was well-written with strong religious themes and safe, clean content for even younger readers. The love relationships presented are chaste with conservative descriptions. The book is not overly "preachy," though, so even if you don't share the ...more

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Discuss This Book

topics	posts	views	last activity
Sinopsis en Español // Synopsis in Spanish	1	1	Nov 21, 2014 04:09PM
¿Por qué no una traducción al Español?	1	1	Oct 22, 2014 02:49PM
Translation into Spanish, why not?	1	1	Jul 01, 2014 07:13PM
Christian Histori...: Sandra Byrd's "To Die For"	5	21	Aug 19, 2011 07:32PM

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About Sandra Byrd

Sandra Byrd

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Bestselling author Sandra Byrd has published fifty books over her editing and writing career. Her traditionally published books include titles by Howard Books, a division of Simon and Schuster, Tyndale House Publishers, WaterBrook Press, an imprint of Penguin Random House, and Bethany House Publishers.

Sandra’s series of historically sound Gothic romances launched with the best-selling Mist of ...more

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Quotes from To Die for

“Her head rolled but a little way from her body, and I could see her lips still moving in silent prayer for a few moments while the blood pumped outward from the body and from the head. I was stuck firm in my place by the horror of it, jarred loose only by the clattering of Nan Zouche and Alice as they ran up the stairs with linen. I quickly leaned down and picked up her head, eyes still open and aware as the linen slipped from them, as they looked at me. I willed the bile back down my throat and forced myself to look into those eyes with love for the few moments before awareness dimmed from them.
Within seconds, she slipped away. I took the head into the smallest and finest of linens and carefully wrapped it, her blood running thickly between my fingers, under my nails, and staining my forearms as I sought to save her from any indignity.” — 1 likes

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