A Woman of Passion

Rating:
Summary: Inaccurate, distorted account of historical fiction
Review: A Woman of Passion had potential, but the author killed it. The main thing about this book that made me dislike it so much is that fact that it is so glaringly historically inacurate. In the book, Elizabeth Hardwick is a compassionate, sincere, clever beautiful woman, when in reality she was a cunning, scheming, hateful mean witch. Also, Frances Suffolk is portrayed as a likeable, comic lady of nobility, when every account in history states that she was wicked, abusive, and at times downright evil. There are other glaring inaccuracies as well. The book is badly written, badly researched, and badly portrayed. Bess Hardwick's story is romanticized and [bent] in this novel. You can tell that it was written for the sex scenes, because those are the only parts that are really descriptive. The only good point about this book is that it is mildly entertaining, and it passes the time. Don't bother with this one if you know history, and prefer actual literarture to inaccurate, badly written, unrealistic romance.

Rating:
Summary: A Compelling "Fictionalized" Biography
Review: In a word -WOW!!! Ms. Henley really out did herself. I was hesitant to purchase a novel catagorized as a "Fictionalized Biography" particularly when the heroine, Bess Hardwick, marries no less than four men! But Viginia Henley really pulls it off. This story is not your typical romance because it breaks the stereotype that the heroine can only have one true love.The most compelling of all is the fact that Bess Hardwick was a real person who lived during Elizabeth I's reign. She became the wealthiest women in England second only to the queen herself. Buy it in hardcover because your going to want to read it over and over.

Rating:
Summary: A Woman of Passion is the best yet!
Review: Virginia Henley has really outdone herself with her latest Elizabethan A WOMAN OF PASSION. This book covers a vast sweep of history detailing not only four monarchies, but four marriages for the strong, vibrant heroine, Bess of Hardwick. The well-researched history is blended seamlessly with four sensual love stories. Virginia Henley never disappoints me. No one, but no one writes historical romance like she does. She stands above the rest of the pack in sheer talent and creativity! A Woman Of Passion is a MUST-READ for anyone who loves history or historical romance.