The Unfaithful Queen: A Novel of Henry VIII's Fifth Wife

The Unfaithful Queen by Carolly Erickson is about Catherine Howard, fifth wife of Henry VIII. This is the first book by this author that I have read.The story begins with Catherine living with her grandmother Agnes where she discovers her sexuality with first Heny Mannox and then Francis Dereham. The story then follows Catherine as she becomes Queen and then is executed.I quite enjoyed this book. No surprises as having an interest in the Tudors I have read other accounts by different authors. I did find the story was drawn out a little in the middle. Then I felt that towards the end with Catherine's downfall, this section was a little rushed. This I felt could have been more detailed especially with the story being told by Catherine. What I enjoyed was that the book was nice to read. It isn't a bodice ripper and there was very little bad language.What I didn't enjoy was that there was a few liberties in the story. It is a work of fiction, but based on fact. I haven't come across before Henry having an affair with Catherine's mother who then died along with her child by Henry. Was there really any need for this in the story, I don't think so. There were historical facts missed out also, such as Catherine running after Henry down the corridor pleading. Overall though I enjoyed reading this account and would recommend to anybody who enjoys the Tudor history or anybody who wants to start reading about the Tudors.

If you're not worried about actual historical events and are just looking for an easy, fun read then this is definitely a book for you. It can be difficult to write about someone who has been portrayed on both ends of the spectrum. I love Erickson's novels but have to remind myself of the fiction part of historical fiction.

I really enjoyed this book. It is fiction, but it was nice seeing the event from Catherine’s perspective.

While there were definitely liberties taken with the subject matter, the overall story was sound. I will read more of her work, and I am intrigued by her non-fiction books as well.