In the Shadow of Lions by Ginger Garrett

In the Shadow of Lions by Ginger Garrett is a remarkably original take on a well-known story. The story of Anne Boleyn and her marriage to Henry VIII has been written and played out on the screen hundreds of times, and usually, Anne is portrayed as a conniving, manipulative witch. Garrett turns history on its head by giving Anne heart and faith. Anne's story, along with another woman named Rose, is a story within the story of Bridget, a woman suffering from terminal cancer who has been ordered by a Scribe to write down their story. This Scribe, who appears to be some sort of angel, allows Bridget to observe history as it happens, and as she writes it down, she discovers some truths about her own life. It's a fascinating premise, and Garrett handles it extremely well. Anne is portrayed as a woman of faith who is torn by her desire for Henry and her desire to remain chaste to be faithful to God. She's not a manipulator, but manipulated herself, caught in a web of intrigue beyond her creation or knowledge. Part of what makes the story shine is Garrett's deft writing. Crickets sang the same note, over and over, like a needle and thread bobbing in and out of the dark blanket of the night sky. Garrett recreates history in a way that makes it vital. Henry VIII is burning men and women at the stake who dare to read William Hutchins' book, the New Testament, which has been translated for the first time into English so everyone can read it. What those martyrs suffered for their faith, makes me very grateful for the ability to read my Bible every night and to worship in the way I please. This appears to be the first in a series; I hope the next one comes out soon!