The Boleyn Secret

By Alison Weir

The New York Times bestselling author of the Six Tudor Queens series explores the dramatic, mysterious life of Katherine Carey, niece of Anne Boleyn, in this surprising novel that delves into one of the deepest secrets of Henry VIII's court.

"In this vivid and utterly addictive novel, Alison Weir brings to life a fascinating woman who lived at the heart of Henry VIII's and Elizabeth I's courts."--Tracy Borman, author of The House of Boleyn

At twelve years old, Katherine Carey attends her aunt, Queen Anne Boleyn, to the scaffold. Horrified by what she witnesses, Katherine is convinced that King Henry VIII is a murderer and has sent an innocent woman to a terrible death.

Although the Boleyn family, once so influential at court, has now fallen from favor, Katherine still manages to secure a coveted role as companion to her now-motherless cousin, the young Lady Elizabeth. Bound by Boleyn blood, the two girls grow as close as sisters, though Katherine has trouble ignoring the sly looks thrown her way and continual whispers behind her back. Only when her mother lies dying does Katherine learn the life-shattering truth that the Boleyns have been hiding for years.

It is a secret that follows Katherine throughout her life, as she flees religious persecution with her husband and lives abroad in fear, returning home only when Elizabeth becomes queen. But the bond between the Boleyn cousins will never be the same again.

With her usual entertaining and authoritative style beloved by readers, renowned historian Alison Weir exposes a dramatic, little-known Tudor mystery in this fascinating, revelatory novel.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0593974735
• ISBN13: 9780593974735
• Release Date: May 2026
• Publisher: Ballantine Books
• Length: 560 Pages
• Weight: 1.70 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.9" x 6.1" x 9.3"

Customer Reviews

Engrossing read for the fans of the Tudor era!

I loved this story, and even though it was fiction, it's based on real characters.  I had never heard of Katherine Carey, who was the niece of Anne Boleyn, the famous second wife of King Henry VIII.  I love reading Alison Weir's books, because they are so interesting, and I love the era she writes about!  I rate this book 5 stars, and I highly recommend it!  I really enjoyed reading about Katherine, and learned a lot about her life, her role in the court, her wonderful marriage and family, and even about King Henry VIII, his wives, and Elizabeth I.  This book is easy to read, very interesting, a great story, and I loved it! No spoilers, but this story isn't a feel good story, but about real people who experienced real life, both ups and downs!  So if you enjoy the Tudor era, this book is for you!  It's clean, so no worries there, and very good!!!