This unexpected, magical and fierce take on the events of the aftermath of Anne Boleyn’s execution might be unbelievable in its outcome – but it does offer a bold perspective to give Anne Boleyn a voice in her own story.
Expect the unexpected in this fascinating and bold reimagining as to what happens in the wake of Anne Boleyn’s execution.
Beginning right in the aftermath of her death, Anne Boleyn discovers that she can wake up quite easily – even if her head is no longer attached to her head (this is soon very easily rectified after her escape from her coffin and laying her hands on a sewing needle and thread). She soon questions how this can be and soon embarks on a journey of revenge against her husband Henry VIII and plotting to put her daughter Elizabeth on the throne sooner than her infamous husband expects.
But it is not an easy journey and quest that she has to make and much of the time she relies on the help of her unexpected ally and eventual friend Alice who mainly lives in the fens and only comes to London for part time work as a prostitute to support her family. What emerges is a story of class and struggle among the common people at that time and the fight for equality that can be seen as still relatable to readers today.
It is a fascinating read that is clear just how much research and time that Lehmann has put into creating this novel. She has even included a very insightful authors note that is well worth the reading – highlighting her process in putting together this magical (although naturally somewhat bloody and violent tale) story to offer a refreshing perspective of Anne Boleyn.
For me, this story is particularly intriguing and captivating in the way in which Anne Boleyn as a character has been conceived here. She is curious, defiant, ahead of her time, well educated and a loving and devoted mother. Seeing the Tudor world through her eyes and the dangerous place it was to be in is powerful. There is so much detail that the reader is completely immersed in it from start to finish.
Perhaps it could be said that the pacing is slightly all over the place and the climax could have been a little bit more powerful (her moment of triumph definitely feels underplayed), but there is still plenty to be enjoyed here that makes it a real captivating read to see if Anne actually achieves her goal of revenge. The final moments in the book are particularly poignant and leave a lasting impression.
The Beheading Game is a completely unexpected and refreshing take on the story of Anne Boleyn. It is bold in its premise and offers a distinctive take on her story that offers plenty of reflection, asking us to re-evaluate everything that we do know about her and give her justice. Fascinating and well worth reading.
Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
The Beheading Game is available to buy now.