Thank you to Jan and Massimo for visiting the Anne Boleyn Files today to tell us a bit more about their book “I am Henry”. It’s an excellent read…
“I am Henry” is a historical fantasy novel that skilfully blends fact and fiction as it delves into the aftermath of Anne Boleyn’s betrayal by Henry VIII, re-told from the vantage point of Limbo.
The historical references in the novel are everywhere and despite the focus being on the two main characters Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn, the novel also makes the reader aware of the historical relevance and legacies of the Tudors as a royal family and Anne Boleyn as a woman and an individual. This historical framework makes for an interesting read.
The Tudor Legacy
Henry VII stabilised England post-Bosworth, united Yorkist and Lancastrian claims, and bolstered the monarchy’s finances and centralised its authority. His diplomacy and support for exploration set the stage for the illustrious reigns of Henry VIII and Elizabeth I, solidifying the Tudor legacy.
Henry VIII, reigning from 1509-1547, reshaped England’s religious and political landscape through the English Reformation and the establishment of the Church of England. His six marriages, producing heirs like Elizabeth I, and the Dissolution of the Monasteries further marked his reign. He centralised power even further, bolstered the navy, and patronised the arts, fostering a cultural Renaissance.
Elizabeth I’s reign (1558-1603) marked the Elizabethan Golden Age, distinguished by cultural luminaries like Shakespeare. Her religious policies solidified the Church of England, while the defeat of the Spanish Armada bolstered England’s naval dominance. Under her guidance, explorers expanded trade and began England’s overseas explorations.
The Legacy of Anne Boleyn
Anne Boleyn’s relationship with King Henry VIII instigated England’s seismic break from the Roman Catholic Church, ushering in the Church of England. Her influence extended beyond religious transformation; she introduced continental fashions and cultural refinements to the English court. Her daughter, Elizabeth I, further solidified Anne’s legacy.
Historically, she’s a divisive figure, painted alternately as a seductress or a victim of political intrigue. Today, she’s celebrated as a symbol of feminine agency in an era dominated by male influence. Her resilience, intelligence, and the Boleyn family’s ambition are emblematic of her enduring legacy. Her compelling story, echoing through popular culture, underscores her lasting impact and features prominently in the novel.
Final Thoughts
This fascinating part of history which started with Henry VII and was concluded with his granddaughter Elizabeth I, is a story about power, love, and above all about family. All of them shaped the course of history and left a lasting impression until today.
As with all stories, people have different points of view on who was right or wrong. Tudor enthusiasts and historians alike have expressed their joy in reading “I am Henry”. Some even called it “cathartic”.
“I am Henry” is available on Amazon Kindle and in paperback, offering a unique and thought-provoking addition to your holiday reading list. The novel is based on the award-winning short film “I am Henry,” directed and produced by the authors, and available on Amazon Prime.