Dear Heart, How Like You This?

by Wendy J. Dunn

May, 1536. The poet Sir Thomas Wyatt, released from imprisonment in the Tower of London, is in his father's custody. Almost from almost the beginning of his life, Tom has loved his cousin Anne Boleyn, content to sit at her feet while she sang her love songs to another, if doing so gave him just a moment in her company.

Now he is heartsick and despairing, having witnessed her juridical murder by Henry VIII. Only wanting to escape from the recent memories now rending his heart, Tom recounts his story, a story which also narrates the tragic tale of Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Historical, Tudor Period, Fiction, 16th Century

372 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2002

About the author

WENDY J. DUNN is an award-winning Australian writer fascinated by Tudor history – so much so she was not surprised to discover a family connection to the Tudors, not long after the publication of her first Anne Boleyn novel, which narrated the Anne Boleyn story through the eyes of Sir Thomas Wyatt, the elder. Her family tree reveals the intriguing fact that one of her ancestral families – possibly over three generations – had purchased land from both the Boleyn and Wyatt families to build up their holdings. It seems very likely Wendy’s ancestors knew the Wyatts and Boleyns personally. Wendy is married, the mother of four adult children and the grandmother of two amazing small boys. She gained her PhD in 2014 and loves walking in the footsteps of the historical people she gives voice to in her books. Wendy also tutors writing at Swinburne University of Technology, Australia. Henry VIII’s True Daughter: Catherine Carey, A Tudor Life is her first full-length nonfiction work.

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Reviews

[Elizabeth(The Book Whisperer) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lets start by saying, I love Ann Boleyn. I love her story, I love Tudor history in general. This book is told from the point of view of Sir Thomas Wyatt. He was her cousin and had loved her his whole life through. The book shows her in a different light then most I have read of her. Usually she is portrayed as an scheming, overly ambitious vixen who cares only for her own ambition. This novel shows her in a more sympathetic light, and I enjoyed that. The only problem I had with this book was the excessive use of the word "love" and the word "yea," (which seemed out of place for the time period). Over than that, I completely was impressed by this novel, the writing and story was well done. I recommend it to all Tudor lovers!

[Alex Stark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gave me a unique insight into the much gossiped of relationship between Queen Anne and the poet Tomas Wyatt. Despite all of the different historic opinions flying about, it is comforting and enchanting to read a book which harbours such raw, encapsulating emotion. Indeed, Wendy Dunn has accomplished what many writers seek to, and many fail to grasp, which is an evocative relationship with Wyatt. This story reads, to me, as a genuine and loving conversation between the writer, the main characters, and the readers. If Anne Boleyn and Tomas Wyatt appeal, consider this a humble and passionate testament to love and friendship which existed between these unique individuals

[Denise O'Hagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A detailed and compassionate fictionalised account of the story of Anne Boleyn, told from the viewpoint of Sir Thomas Wyatt. We are offered a rare insight into the lives of people in Tudor times, and especially the frequently compromised situations in which women, including high-born women, found themselves. All in all, a soundly researched narrative, and heartrendingly compelling story. Highly recommended, especially to anyone with an interest in history (especially of Tudor times) and the role of women.

[Charlie Fenton · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked it until the end, in which several inaccuracies came up. Anne Boleyn's last miscarriage was not of a deformed child, that was not mentioned until years after her death and even Eustace Chapuys, who had no love of the woman and knew all that happened at court, didn't mention it. Jane Boleyn's portrayal is the standard one of an evil woman who caused her husband and sister-in-law's downfall, although there is no evidence of this and it was thoroughly disproved by Julia Fox's biography on her. If anything, we have evidence that Jane and Anne were very close. The worst part was the end, in which there was a block at her execution, which unfortunately spoiled the book for me, as that is a basic error, the others I could forgive. The rest of the story I really enjoyed, even if sometimes I was annoyed with Wyatt repeatedly saying 'yea' and changed from Anne to Anna in the same paragraph. I much preferred Dunn's book on Katherine of Aragon, it shows how much she has grown as a writer.

[chucklesthescot · Rating 1 out of 5]

I found the writing style of this book so annoying that I couldn't get into the actual story.

It was written in that dramatic, overly enthusiastic 'hey I'm a poet!' kind of way, with exclaimations of love and adoration and shouts of 'Oh Anna!' every paragraph. It was somewhat nauseating as well as overly descriptive to the point of wondering what he was talking about. We can't do three lines without Wyatt reminding the reader that he loves her. Yes, I get the point, no need to hit me over the head with it twenty times per page! The author also has the annoying habit of switching between Anne and Anna whenever the urge occurs and for no obvious reason. It is really annoying when we have both names in one sentence. Why??? What does this add to the story? Surely in his private writings he would use one version all the time?

We get overdosed on the old fashioned language which I do not like in my Tudor novels. OK some may like it because it is an authentic representation of how they would talk or write, but I feel the story flows better when this is kept to a minimum. I was getting annoyed at the constant verily's and yea's that were all over the place and it made me grind my teeth.

There was also no real flow to the story. Wyatt is rambling on about his love for Anne, telling a story about her being the love of his live at 2 years old, then he jumps ahead to them being parted, then he is talking about a story when she was 3. There was no order to it and it was full of inane declarations of undying love and how they were soulmates. Ugh. We get endless school lessons about Socrates and the Greek writings in endless details, with his love declared all through it of course. This was so tedious to read and I was getting very bored with it.

Dull, repetitive and yawn inducing!

[Patricia Wesslink · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh so beautifully written - the words truly flow like poetry - very apt since this is the story of Anne Boleyn as told by her cousin, the poet Thomas Wyatt. This account of her rise and fall dares to challenge some of the more traditional beliefs pertaining to some of the supporting characters - for example Elizabeth Boleyn, Anne's mother is presented as weak and not at all involved in the lives of her children. Although the story's outcome is well known, the writing style keeps the reader intrigued and turning the pages for more. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more by Wendy Dunn

[MBP · Rating 2 out of 5]

Disappointing - I wanted to like this book, because I loved the idea of the story of Anne Boleyn and Thomas Wyatt. I had trouble getting past the writing style, though - very flowery, with lots of "yea" and "verily." The author also switches between Anne and Anna frequently (sometimes within the same paragraph) for no apparent reason. I think the book could have used better editing. I did enjoy the story, though, especially toward the end - the plot and the writing seemed to improve as the book progressed.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Totally loved it. (Another one I read in one sitting on a huge-ass train journey!) I loved the different angle taken when presenting Anne, and their childhood seemed so magical and blissful. The only criticism I could possibly have is that Anne is presented as too Saint-like, too good and almost too one-dimensional - she doesn't seem to be flawed in any way and she seems slightly less believable because of this... But this is only a small, small criticism and overall I really loved this book.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a truely lovely telling of the sad tale of Anne Boleyn. Seen through the eyes of Thomas Wyatt who loved Anne from early on, and watched her trancedence to Henry VIII's queen with romantic longing and her downfall with grief.

[Kathleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fine book by a very good historian, but The Light in the Labyrinth remains my favorite of the two. Maybe the choice of character and very possibly what their lives consisted of, or just that each author's books become better than the one before.

Both of them are MUST READS!

[Mary Walterman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A different perspective

I liked this book because it told Anne Boleyn's story from a different perspective. Tom Wyatt was a male friend who delivers this perspective for us. Enabling us to see Anne and her life in a different light.

[Kristie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent book (and despite the fact that I call the author a friend, I can still be unbiased!) about Anne Boleyn. It will keep you going!

[Rosie Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another brilliant read by Wendy J Dunn about Anne Boleyn written through the eyes of Sir Thomas Wyatt......you might have to have a box of tissues near by..........hoping for more from this author

[ece karadag · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an evocative and engaging story of love and friendship that blossoms from early childhood bonds only to be torn apart by a selfish king’s sensual desires.
The heartbreak of Thomas Wyatt’s mostly unrequited love for his cousin, Anne Boleyn, is told in the first person by Wyatt. The scenes, colored with contrasting images – from the glittering gold and jeweled coronation gowns of the Tudor Court to the cold, grey confines of the Tower of London – are presented through the poetically written prose of Thomas Wyatt.
Furthermore, Wyatt’s depiction of Anne, from childhood to adolescence, to her tragic demise, serves to remind the reader that this English Queen, with all her dreams and fantasies, was flesh and blood, not just a name on a family tree.
This is a touching and tragic story that I admit I have yet to read because I was distracted by its title. I was worried because the entire book was written in an old English style. This demonstrates the importance of never making assumptions.

[Nicola Niemc · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a huge fan of the Tudor period and its characters (especially the Boleyns), and this book is one of the most interesting, and in places, heart-wrenching accounts of the rise and fall of Anne Boleyn. It was interesting in that it comes from the view of Sir Thomas Wyatt, one of her supposed lovers, and depicts an unusual account of her actions. Anne is shown in a sympathetic light for once and you can't help but feel sorry for her inability to bear a son. Henry VIII is portrayed as a spoilt child who has never grown up and has no qualms about sending his wife to death. All in all, this is a moving book that makes you want to weep yourself with the injustice of it all.

[A. L. · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book in that it gave me a better appreciation of Sir Thomas Wyatt’s poetry. I like the kinder viewpoint of Anne Boleyn. And while the narrator’s constant switching between ‘Anne’ and ‘Anna’ seemed to bother a lot of people, that didn’t bother me at all. Probably because my family LOVES nicknames, and we nickname each other’s nicknames. However, starting nearly every third sentence with ‘verily’ or ‘yea’ quickly grew tedious, and actually served to knock you out of the scene. There were parts that drug on too long (the tears after the love scene...would it ever stop?!) and certainly parts that needed tighter editing, but overall an enjoyable and pleasant book.

[Fiona Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyable

A different point of view of the time of Anne Boleyn. The narrative by Sir Thomas Wyatt tells a tragic story of a young girl who was sweep along by the lusts of men. Her beauty and innocence catch the eye of the King and her life is never the same. I totally enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.

[Lesly! · Rating 3 out of 5]

This novel is a slow burn however, I really enjoyed it! Written in poem like style told from the Perspective of Thomas Wyatt, Anne Boleyn's cousin. I feel that Anne has always beem portrayed as a power hungry woman. And in this book we get to know her as more innocent young woman who wanted a normal life. Recommended for all fans of the Tudor era!

[Georgiana R · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Richly researched book told from the perspective of Sir Thomas Wyatt and his life long love for Anne Boleyn.
For anyone who loves the Tudor times in history, you will thoroughly enjoy this book with its rather warm telling of Anne Boleyn’s inner personality from a different perspective.
This will most certainly not be the last book I read by this author!

[Chasity Gaines · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful and Heartbreaking

Dunn captivates the senses as she gives us a look at Anne Boleyn's life through the eyes of Thomas Wyatt. She weaves a tale of beauty and heartbreak. I have read many books about Anne and I thought this was a wonderfully written. I look forward to reading Book 2 in this series.

[Ellen Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good read

I found the beginning of the book slow to catch my attention but was determined to read on and glad I did. Two things: if Anne gave herself to anyone, it would have been Hal Percy and I'm not a fan of Tom Wyatts poetry. Still, I enjoyed this book and do recommend it.

[Donna Pingry · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book I have read by this author. I'm truly on the lookout for more. Interesting new view of Thomas Wyatt. History tells us he loved her and never forgot her. This fleshes that out a bit more.

[Stephanie · Rating 1 out of 5]

Verily, this is badly written, aye.

[Sara G · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF. I couldn't get past the author's writing style. It's overly poetic in that sort of fake old fashioned way, using "verily" and words like that for no real reason. There were points where historical detail is added in a very jarring way, too. It sounds like our narrator is quoting Wikipedia. "Only as I grew older did I understand that families of our status customarily sent their offspring to homes of relatives or friends to gain the beginnings of their education and strengthen attachments already formed." It's also distracting when Anne and Anna are used interchangeably for the same person, with no rhyme or reason as to why one is used. Lots of dashes and awkward sentences were too distracting, too. The research was clearly done very well, I just can't get over the style on this one and I don't have the patience for it.

[BookAddict · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm not sure how I felt about this. Part of me swears if the author tossed the word "certes" in there one more time I was going to toss this in the fireplace. Between that and the notion that Anne's marriage to Henry was fueled by an Amanda Clark-like "Revenge" made this whole thing a bit hard to swallow. Combined with the writing which I found a bit too high-school I was struggling with whether I liked this or not. Then I read the information in the back. There was real intelligent history there and I was surprised to find it written in a completely different voice, a voice that didn't appear in the novel. So the novel was just okay for me. I'd so looked forward to a Thomas Wyatt's version of the much-maligned Anne that expectations I fear were too high. How Like I This? Eh - just okay.

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this novel. I liked the point of view of Thomas Wyatt; it certainly made for a different story. I also like Dunn's portrayal of Anne Boleyn as a pawn in a game played by powerful men who put her in Henry's way. I think she was a strong woman in her own right and desired to change England's church, but I do not believe she got to the position of Queen without much coaching from her father and uncle, both of whom turned against her when Henry tired of her. Although I liked this take on Anne's story, I think her other novel The Light in the Labyrinth is more powerful and better written.

[Helen Azar · Rating 3 out of 5]

Yet another Anne Boleyn novel, this time written from the point of view of Thomas Wyatt - her cousin and brief lover - who wrote lots of poetry dedicated to her. Not a bad read, but due to endless professions of love on the main character's part, it does get somewhat tiresome [Yes, we get it already, you are in love with Anne Boleyn!:]. Some historical revisionism, but it is historical FICTION after all, although accurate for the most part...

[Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent novel of the tragic story of Anne Boelyn. Well written with impeccable research. A must read for anyone interested in the history of Tudor England.

[Nicole]

good book kindof reminded me of the secret diary of anne boleyn. but still good.

[CLM]

How could I have missed a book that uses a Thomas Wyatt sonnet as its title?