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The Timeless Falcon #1
The Anne Boleyn Cypher
You won’t be able to put down this time-travelling Tudor adventure! Perfect for fans of Dan Brown, Philippa Gregory, Kate Mosse and Tom Harper.
What would you do if you suddenly found yourself in Tudor England?
When twenty-year-old history student, Beth Wickers starts her second year of university, she has no idea that her whole world is about to be turned upside down.
Beth’s favourite lecturer gives Beth a box of books on Tudor history to borrow, and nestled among them is an ornate cypher ring with the letters ‘AB’ inscribed onto it.
When Beth tries the ring on, the unimaginable happens.
It carries her back through time to Hever Castle in 1521. And she is no longer in her professor’s office, but in the bedroom of none other than Lady Anne Boleyn.
Beth quickly becomes enchanted by Tudor England and is captivated by Anne. But she knows she can’t leave her loved ones behind forever.
Tormented by the knowledge of what will happen to Anne in the future, can Beth stop herself from intervening and rewriting history? Can she use the cypher ring to return home?
Or will Tudor life be too hard to leave behind…?
What would you do if you suddenly found yourself in Tudor England?
When twenty-year-old history student, Beth Wickers starts her second year of university, she has no idea that her whole world is about to be turned upside down.
Beth’s favourite lecturer gives Beth a box of books on Tudor history to borrow, and nestled among them is an ornate cypher ring with the letters ‘AB’ inscribed onto it.
When Beth tries the ring on, the unimaginable happens.
It carries her back through time to Hever Castle in 1521. And she is no longer in her professor’s office, but in the bedroom of none other than Lady Anne Boleyn.
Beth quickly becomes enchanted by Tudor England and is captivated by Anne. But she knows she can’t leave her loved ones behind forever.
Tormented by the knowledge of what will happen to Anne in the future, can Beth stop herself from intervening and rewriting history? Can she use the cypher ring to return home?
Or will Tudor life be too hard to leave behind…?
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 22, 2020
About the author
Phillipa Vincent-Connolly
8 books40 followersPhillipa Vincent-Connolly is a historian who qualified in History and Humanities with the Open University in 2011. She went on to qualify as a secondary school teacher in 2014 and teaches History and Textiles in schools across Dorset as a supply teacher. She has published both fiction and non-fiction and is currently working towards achieving her PhD in History. Among her many interests, she has a deep and abiding love for all things historical: fashion, corsetry, archives, artefacts, and architecture, and is a keen activist with an interest in disability equality and socialism. Phillipa lives in Poole, Dorset with her two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
October 26, 2022
3.5 Stars
I have been enchanted with Queen Anne Boleyn for decades, so was drawn to read this historical fiction offering. It features a British History college student named Elizabeth (Beth) Wickers. When her teacher Professor Marshall sends her to his office to pick up some books he's getting rid of, she finds way more than she bargained for...like an ancient ring with the cypher "AB" and a portal door to Lady Anne Boleyn's bedroom at Hever Castle in the 1500s. I was particularly fascinated by Beth's in-depth description of her first sighting of Anne. I was a jealous voyeur, wishing that I too could finally see what Anne Boleyn actually looked and sounded like- instead of having to settle with the various painted renditions we are left with.
I also appreciated the inclusions of well-known facts and items such as the famous Eric Ives authored biography of Anne Boleyn, its hardcover book used as some kind of lever that opened up the bookcase to a secret walkway to Hever Castle. We also encounter the iconic "B" necklace with the 3 hanging pearls when it's presented as a gift to Anne, and renowned Tudor historian Suzannah Lipscomb giving a lecture at Beth's college. I enjoyed learning about the intricate steps to dressing up in Tudor regalia, including undergarments, the dress and hood (French or English gabled). The character of Beth interacted with major Tudor players such as Mary, Thomas and George Boleyn, King Henry VIII and his first wife Queen Katharine, and Cardinal Wolsey- among others.
What I didn't like about the book were that a few areas felt slow-moving or focusing too much on matters without substance. Also, I was mystified and disappointed that Beth wasn't more gobsmacked at seeing King Henry VIII for the first time in person. This book is the first in a series, and so ended before Anne Boleyn ever got romantically involved with King Henry VIII. I am fairly impressed enough to envision myself picking up the next volume in this historical fiction series.
Thank you to the publisher Sapere Books for providing an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
I have been enchanted with Queen Anne Boleyn for decades, so was drawn to read this historical fiction offering. It features a British History college student named Elizabeth (Beth) Wickers. When her teacher Professor Marshall sends her to his office to pick up some books he's getting rid of, she finds way more than she bargained for...like an ancient ring with the cypher "AB" and a portal door to Lady Anne Boleyn's bedroom at Hever Castle in the 1500s. I was particularly fascinated by Beth's in-depth description of her first sighting of Anne. I was a jealous voyeur, wishing that I too could finally see what Anne Boleyn actually looked and sounded like- instead of having to settle with the various painted renditions we are left with.
I also appreciated the inclusions of well-known facts and items such as the famous Eric Ives authored biography of Anne Boleyn, its hardcover book used as some kind of lever that opened up the bookcase to a secret walkway to Hever Castle. We also encounter the iconic "B" necklace with the 3 hanging pearls when it's presented as a gift to Anne, and renowned Tudor historian Suzannah Lipscomb giving a lecture at Beth's college. I enjoyed learning about the intricate steps to dressing up in Tudor regalia, including undergarments, the dress and hood (French or English gabled). The character of Beth interacted with major Tudor players such as Mary, Thomas and George Boleyn, King Henry VIII and his first wife Queen Katharine, and Cardinal Wolsey- among others.
What I didn't like about the book were that a few areas felt slow-moving or focusing too much on matters without substance. Also, I was mystified and disappointed that Beth wasn't more gobsmacked at seeing King Henry VIII for the first time in person. This book is the first in a series, and so ended before Anne Boleyn ever got romantically involved with King Henry VIII. I am fairly impressed enough to envision myself picking up the next volume in this historical fiction series.
Thank you to the publisher Sapere Books for providing an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
December 12, 2021
Timeless Falcon follows a history student as they inadvertently are taken back in time to 1522 where they meet Anne Boleyn. Through the main character we catch glimpses of some of the key moments in Anne's life prior to her relationship with the king beginning.
An interesting premise poorly explored, it reads as very self indulgent fanfiction on the part of the author and to be honest I cannot think of anything to commend this book to anyone.
The quality of writing is incredibly disjointed, repetetive and truth be told, the time travel in general is poorly handled.
The Main Character is conceited and the story is more focused on whether the main character will choose to have liaisons with various characters or not.
Overall, this story is very predictable in where it is going and I will not be continuing with the series, there are much better works out there.
An interesting premise poorly explored, it reads as very self indulgent fanfiction on the part of the author and to be honest I cannot think of anything to commend this book to anyone.
The quality of writing is incredibly disjointed, repetetive and truth be told, the time travel in general is poorly handled.
The Main Character is conceited and the story is more focused on whether the main character will choose to have liaisons with various characters or not.
Overall, this story is very predictable in where it is going and I will not be continuing with the series, there are much better works out there.
December 6, 2022
A MUST read fantasy mixed with reality telling of historical fiction amped up to a whole new level!
Imagine if you could time travel. Really go and experience a time period as it’s happening while retaining the ability to jump forward back into your time without ever being missed. Imagine still if the time you spent in this time gone by could be experienced in weeks, months, or even years, again with no consequences to you in the present. Would you jump at the chance? Who would you meet? Would you change the events, this altering history forever, or stand idly by and watch things play out, even when you know how it ends?
This is exactly what happens to Beth Wickers, a second year history student that is in love with the events in Tudor, England, and more specifically with Anne Boleyn.
A beautiful story line interwoven with historical facts will have you breathless and contemplating the possibility of having just this kind of chance yourself.
Perfect for all fans of historical fiction, time travel, and anyone who just wishes they could go back in time and witness for themselves the lives of those long ago. This is definitely one to put on your radar as it will sweep you away, off your feet, and into a story so good it will haunt you.
Thank you so much to #NetGalley, the publishers and author for allowing me to experience life in Tudor, England through this amazing ARC. I can’t give this one enough praise!
Happy reading my friends! 😊
Imagine if you could time travel. Really go and experience a time period as it’s happening while retaining the ability to jump forward back into your time without ever being missed. Imagine still if the time you spent in this time gone by could be experienced in weeks, months, or even years, again with no consequences to you in the present. Would you jump at the chance? Who would you meet? Would you change the events, this altering history forever, or stand idly by and watch things play out, even when you know how it ends?
This is exactly what happens to Beth Wickers, a second year history student that is in love with the events in Tudor, England, and more specifically with Anne Boleyn.
A beautiful story line interwoven with historical facts will have you breathless and contemplating the possibility of having just this kind of chance yourself.
Perfect for all fans of historical fiction, time travel, and anyone who just wishes they could go back in time and witness for themselves the lives of those long ago. This is definitely one to put on your radar as it will sweep you away, off your feet, and into a story so good it will haunt you.
Thank you so much to #NetGalley, the publishers and author for allowing me to experience life in Tudor, England through this amazing ARC. I can’t give this one enough praise!
Happy reading my friends! 😊
September 23, 2021
Only friends, family, and those who like her as a result of her Facebook presence have rated this book well. It is the worst sort of fan-fiction. No one with an IQ outside of the double digits could enjoy the insipid, foolish dialogue of a deeply self-deluded "author". Save your money and read the MUCH superior, Le Temps Viendra that she copied.
July 23, 2020
Timeless Falcon is just as good, if not better, than anything Gregory or Weir has written. I was hesitant about the time travel aspect, as it is so often done badly, but Vincent-Connolly does this very well. I also loved that it was a refreshing, different way of telling Anne Boleyn's story. I started reading and couldn't stop. Can't wait for the next one!
November 4, 2022
What would you do
If you were able to go back in time to Tudor England and become Anne Boleyn's bff? Book started really slowly and I almost quit it but then it became interesting. You have to read it with a great deal of salt as you will probably find yourself not liking the main character of Beth very much. I dislike stories whereby we have an educated young woman but is so naive to the world of men. I also get frustrated that almost every man she meets wants her. Sigh...So why four stars? I want to find out if Beth alters history in any way. The book is a fast read once you get past the beginning.
If you were able to go back in time to Tudor England and become Anne Boleyn's bff? Book started really slowly and I almost quit it but then it became interesting. You have to read it with a great deal of salt as you will probably find yourself not liking the main character of Beth very much. I dislike stories whereby we have an educated young woman but is so naive to the world of men. I also get frustrated that almost every man she meets wants her. Sigh...So why four stars? I want to find out if Beth alters history in any way. The book is a fast read once you get past the beginning.
October 28, 2022
An intriguing and very entertaining read, with a good mixture of historical resources being used throughout. These sources are used to challenge our preconceptions about Anne Boleyn and King Henry the Eight, and help to put a different, more human version of the accepted views of this Tudor period.
It is so well researched, with a wide assortment of writers about this period being referenced, I myself adore this period of history, and, despite being well versed in these characters, I found myself being engrossed and entranced by the story all over again!
There are wonderful descriptions of Tudor life , buildings that are sadly no more, Palaces that would have been quite different then, with servants to attend in every walk of life, the foods, the entertainments, dances, clothes, and then Anne Boleyn and her famous necklace “ B” with three hanging pearls, that must have been stupendous if the remaining portraits of her are to be believed.
The story has an unusual storyline, it is told in the present tense, but with the added element of time travel, that surprises and makes the reader become more involved in the deceit. Every historian would probably love to go and experience actual events and see for themselves the truth about such famous people and the temptation to alter such historical facts would be very tempting. This story makes clear that these persons were actual beings, flawed like us, capable of jealousy, deception, inappropriate relationships, yet, they still fascinate us, some five hundred years later, and that is their secret, we love the power of the King, we decry his treatment of his wives, but we love the beauty and the sense of achievement of this Tudor age. Throw in secret passages, forbidden religion, cryptic letters and documents, and we happily become believers and followers. I am intrigued enough to want to read the second book in this series.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers, Sapere books for my advance digital copy given in exchange for my honest review. A five star read.
It is so well researched, with a wide assortment of writers about this period being referenced, I myself adore this period of history, and, despite being well versed in these characters, I found myself being engrossed and entranced by the story all over again!
There are wonderful descriptions of Tudor life , buildings that are sadly no more, Palaces that would have been quite different then, with servants to attend in every walk of life, the foods, the entertainments, dances, clothes, and then Anne Boleyn and her famous necklace “ B” with three hanging pearls, that must have been stupendous if the remaining portraits of her are to be believed.
The story has an unusual storyline, it is told in the present tense, but with the added element of time travel, that surprises and makes the reader become more involved in the deceit. Every historian would probably love to go and experience actual events and see for themselves the truth about such famous people and the temptation to alter such historical facts would be very tempting. This story makes clear that these persons were actual beings, flawed like us, capable of jealousy, deception, inappropriate relationships, yet, they still fascinate us, some five hundred years later, and that is their secret, we love the power of the King, we decry his treatment of his wives, but we love the beauty and the sense of achievement of this Tudor age. Throw in secret passages, forbidden religion, cryptic letters and documents, and we happily become believers and followers. I am intrigued enough to want to read the second book in this series.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers, Sapere books for my advance digital copy given in exchange for my honest review. A five star read.
July 4, 2020
This was a fun book. No, it wasn’t the best writing ever (a fair amount of grammatical errors and cheesy dialogue, not to mention the whole time traveling aspect, which is always difficult to do well!) so no one is going to laud this story as the height of literary achievement. However, for anyone who is interested in the Tudor era, as I am, it was still an entertaining read that appeals to our youthful fantasies of, “what if we *could* go back and live in the era that so fascinates us?” I’ll definitely check out part two if/when it comes out to see how the author chooses to continue the saga.
August 9, 2020
What can I say about this delicious literary morsel but wow! Jumping right into the Tudor world without abandon, Beth eats up the past with a silver spoon and makes friends easily with one of the most fascinating and fashionable Tudor queens, Anne Boleyn. Twisting between past and present, this student of history lives every historians dream of watching infamous events unfold before her eyes. I loved every moment and can't wait for volume 2! 💕💕
October 27, 2020
Outlander meets the Tudors.
I bought this has I am obsessed with anything to do with Anne Boleyn and the tudors, and I thought it sounded interesting.
I can honestly say I got half way through before I could put the book down! The story is captivating.
I would like to recommend it to all tudor fans .
Phillipa Vincent-Connoly has created something special. I cannot wait to read the next 2 volumes.
I bought this has I am obsessed with anything to do with Anne Boleyn and the tudors, and I thought it sounded interesting.
I can honestly say I got half way through before I could put the book down! The story is captivating.
I would like to recommend it to all tudor fans .
Phillipa Vincent-Connoly has created something special. I cannot wait to read the next 2 volumes.
November 14, 2020
I do enjoy anything to do with the Tudor period so was happy to purchase and curl up with Timeless Falcon. I loved how I could visualize what life was like in Tudor England through the eyes of protagonist, Beth. Phillipa’s descriptions are vivid and she brings her characters to life! Here’s hoping the second and third books in the series are published soon. A wonderful read!
October 5, 2020
Loved this book! Based on the description, I was not too keen on it originally; however, I saw really positive things from one of my Tudor fan groups. I am so glad I gave it a try! The only bad thing, is I don't know when the next volume comes out!
September 25, 2021
As others have said this was such a comically bad book which read like over enthusiastic fanfiction. But the author has a very loyal following on her social media and begs everyone to leave nice reviews. Objectively, it is a terrible piece of fiction.
October 23, 2022
This is the story of a history student Bess who travels back in time too Tudor England and befriends Anne Boleyn and her family it’s a brilliant read and look forward too the next instalment
June 8, 2020
Wasn't sure at first
When I first got this book I'll be honest I wasn't sure I'd enjoy it. By the end I was hooked. I would love to time travel to meet AB.
When I first got this book I'll be honest I wasn't sure I'd enjoy it. By the end I was hooked. I would love to time travel to meet AB.
August 13, 2020
Amazing
I love, love, love this book. I eagerly await the second installment in this series. I am also eagerly await Disability and the Tudors.
I love, love, love this book. I eagerly await the second installment in this series. I am also eagerly await Disability and the Tudors.
August 16, 2020
This is a fabulous book, and I found that the author did her research on Anne Boleyn, as well as the court of Henry VIII. I am waiting impatiently for the next books in the series.
October 15, 2020
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to travel into the past? You could interact with your favorite historical figures and truly understand what they were like. You could dine like a king or a commoner, dress to impress and experience everyday life. There would be risks involved, but any history nerd might jump at the chance to explore the past. One lucky history student named Beth Wickers discovers that a ring in her professor’s office allows her to travel back into the past to visit her favorite historical icon, Anne Boleyn. Can Beth help Anne to survive the dangerous Tudor court of Henry VIII? Follow Beth’s adventures in Tudor England in Phillipa Vincent-Connolly’s first historical fiction novel, “Timeless Falcon, Volume One”.
I would like to thank Phillipa Vincent-Connolly for sending me a copy of this book. I was a bit skeptical at first about a historical fiction novel that involved time travel, but it did sound intriguing so I decided to give it a try.
We are first introduced to Beth Wickers as she is experiencing a typical day at her university, studying and attending lectures by Professor Marshall. She finds herself going into Professor Marshall’s office where she finds an extraordinary ring that allows Beth to go back in time, to 1522. There, she finds herself in the colorful home of the Boleyn family, Hever Castle. It all seems like a fanciful dream, that is until Beth encounters the legend herself, Anne Boleyn.
While their first encounter is indeed memorable, I do have some concerns with it, especially when it comes to the time travel idea. My main concerns are that Beth mentions to Anne that she is from the future and she allows Anne to handle objects from the twenty-first century. This is probably me just being nit-picky, but as someone who is a fan of the idea of time travel, I do have issues when a character from one time period flat out says that they are from the future to someone from the past, not to mention allowing them to interact with objects from the future. My understanding is that with time travel, those from the future should be inconspicuous, but in this case, it does work.
Besides the logistics of time travel, I found this story rather enjoyable. It is a charming tale of when a 21st-century girl is thrown into the Tudor era. Her interactions with the past and how she copes with it all is thrilling as you wonder if she will ever get back to her own time and if she can help those who she holds dear. I love how Connolly creates two believable worlds and a protagonist who is so relatable. Beth’s interactions with her family and friends in her time paralleled the interactions with the Boleyn family. I loved how the Boleyns seemed like another family for Beth; Thomas Boleyn welcoming Beth into his home, kind Lady Boleyn, her complex relationship with the ever-charming George Boleyn, and her friendship with Anne that truly lasts centuries. We also see Beth interacting with other famous figures like Jane Parker, Mary Boleyn, Thomas Wolsey, Katherine of Aragon, and the big man himself, King Henry VIII.
I was not sure about this novel when I first read the description because of the time travel element, however, I think it was a delightful read. I think Beth was such a relatable heroine for so many fellow history nerds who would just want to protect their favorite historical figure from any harm. This book will make you question whether you would make the same decisions that Beth does and whether you can protect the integrity of the past. If you want a historical fiction novel about the Tudors that is fun and unlike any novel you have read before, check out, “Timeless Falcon, Volume One” by Phillipa Vincent-Connolly. I am looking forward to the next volume to see how far Beth will travel into the past.
I would like to thank Phillipa Vincent-Connolly for sending me a copy of this book. I was a bit skeptical at first about a historical fiction novel that involved time travel, but it did sound intriguing so I decided to give it a try.
We are first introduced to Beth Wickers as she is experiencing a typical day at her university, studying and attending lectures by Professor Marshall. She finds herself going into Professor Marshall’s office where she finds an extraordinary ring that allows Beth to go back in time, to 1522. There, she finds herself in the colorful home of the Boleyn family, Hever Castle. It all seems like a fanciful dream, that is until Beth encounters the legend herself, Anne Boleyn.
While their first encounter is indeed memorable, I do have some concerns with it, especially when it comes to the time travel idea. My main concerns are that Beth mentions to Anne that she is from the future and she allows Anne to handle objects from the twenty-first century. This is probably me just being nit-picky, but as someone who is a fan of the idea of time travel, I do have issues when a character from one time period flat out says that they are from the future to someone from the past, not to mention allowing them to interact with objects from the future. My understanding is that with time travel, those from the future should be inconspicuous, but in this case, it does work.
Besides the logistics of time travel, I found this story rather enjoyable. It is a charming tale of when a 21st-century girl is thrown into the Tudor era. Her interactions with the past and how she copes with it all is thrilling as you wonder if she will ever get back to her own time and if she can help those who she holds dear. I love how Connolly creates two believable worlds and a protagonist who is so relatable. Beth’s interactions with her family and friends in her time paralleled the interactions with the Boleyn family. I loved how the Boleyns seemed like another family for Beth; Thomas Boleyn welcoming Beth into his home, kind Lady Boleyn, her complex relationship with the ever-charming George Boleyn, and her friendship with Anne that truly lasts centuries. We also see Beth interacting with other famous figures like Jane Parker, Mary Boleyn, Thomas Wolsey, Katherine of Aragon, and the big man himself, King Henry VIII.
I was not sure about this novel when I first read the description because of the time travel element, however, I think it was a delightful read. I think Beth was such a relatable heroine for so many fellow history nerds who would just want to protect their favorite historical figure from any harm. This book will make you question whether you would make the same decisions that Beth does and whether you can protect the integrity of the past. If you want a historical fiction novel about the Tudors that is fun and unlike any novel you have read before, check out, “Timeless Falcon, Volume One” by Phillipa Vincent-Connolly. I am looking forward to the next volume to see how far Beth will travel into the past.
November 27, 2023
‘What would you do if you suddenly found yourself in Tudor England?’ - teaser
My thanks to Sapere Books for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘The Anne Boleyn Cypher’ by Phillipa Vincent-Connolly.
This is the first in her four book Timeless Falcon series. It was published in October 2022.
This time slip novel opens with 20-year-old history student Beth Wickers starting her second year of university. She has no idea that her whole world is about to be turned upside down. Beth’s favourite lecturer, Professor Marshall, lends her a collection of books on Tudor history and nestled among them she finds an ornate cypher ring with the letters ‘AB’ inscribed onto it.
Beth tries on the ring, then discovers a lever on a bookcase that reveals a mysterious door. She walks through and soon finds herself in the bedroom of Lady Anne Boleyn at Hever Castle in 1521. At first, she thinks that she’s wandered into a film production. Then Beth realises that she’s traveled in time and place. Beth is dressed in jeans and has her iPhone with her along with the bag of books on Tudor history. Oops!
Beth quickly becomes captivated by Anne and her world. Weirdly Anne accepts Beth’s claim that she is from the future with remarkable calm and arranges for her to join the Boleyn household, claiming that they met in France. Beth ends up joining Anne at King Henry’s court.
Given she feels a growing attachment to Anne and her family, Beth is worried that she might be tempted to intervene in Anne’s life and rewrite the future … then there’s those history books and the iPhone. After a while Beth finds a way to return to her present, discovering that hardly any time has passed. Then she discovers a way to move more easily between the present and past and finds it hard to let the past be. What about that the bag of books and your iPhone Beth? I would think returning these would be a priority.
While I enjoy time-slip novels and historical fiction set during the Tudor period, this was just odd. Beth slipped so easily into the past and then seemed to attract the attentions of both George Boleyn and the King! Of course she does. This reminded me of the kind of self-insertion that happens in some fan fiction: the Mary-Sue effect. It was increasingly hard for me to take the story seriously.
There was one scene in particular where Beth, a male friend, and the Professor all end up in modern dress with Anne at Hever Sorry, that just had me rolling my eyes. It might have been a good opportunity to send the bag of books and iPhone back to the future but …
In the closing Notes to the Reader, Phillipa Vincent-Connolly writes: “I wish to stress that although the historical aspects of this book are loosely based on original sources, digital archives, and academic accounts, Beth’s character and her experiences in the Tudor period were used as an entertaining device to creatively retell Anne’s story, and is written purely for the readers’ enjoyment, and to entertain.”
Reading this disclaimer, which might have been better at the opening, I thought fair enough and looking at the glowing reviews, it appears that other readers didn’t have any problem with suspending their disbelief. Yet for me this just didn’t work.
Will I read on? As the series is available via Kindle Unlimited, I might; especially to find out if the issue of the 21st Century artefacts are ever addressed and whether Beth can resist the urge to intervene. I expect given her behaviour to date that she will meddle, perhaps inadvertently. What on earth made Professor Marshall think this was a good idea? Where are the Time Police when you need them?
My thanks to Sapere Books for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘The Anne Boleyn Cypher’ by Phillipa Vincent-Connolly.
This is the first in her four book Timeless Falcon series. It was published in October 2022.
This time slip novel opens with 20-year-old history student Beth Wickers starting her second year of university. She has no idea that her whole world is about to be turned upside down. Beth’s favourite lecturer, Professor Marshall, lends her a collection of books on Tudor history and nestled among them she finds an ornate cypher ring with the letters ‘AB’ inscribed onto it.
Beth tries on the ring, then discovers a lever on a bookcase that reveals a mysterious door. She walks through and soon finds herself in the bedroom of Lady Anne Boleyn at Hever Castle in 1521. At first, she thinks that she’s wandered into a film production. Then Beth realises that she’s traveled in time and place. Beth is dressed in jeans and has her iPhone with her along with the bag of books on Tudor history. Oops!
Beth quickly becomes captivated by Anne and her world. Weirdly Anne accepts Beth’s claim that she is from the future with remarkable calm and arranges for her to join the Boleyn household, claiming that they met in France. Beth ends up joining Anne at King Henry’s court.
Given she feels a growing attachment to Anne and her family, Beth is worried that she might be tempted to intervene in Anne’s life and rewrite the future … then there’s those history books and the iPhone. After a while Beth finds a way to return to her present, discovering that hardly any time has passed. Then she discovers a way to move more easily between the present and past and finds it hard to let the past be. What about that the bag of books and your iPhone Beth? I would think returning these would be a priority.
While I enjoy time-slip novels and historical fiction set during the Tudor period, this was just odd. Beth slipped so easily into the past and then seemed to attract the attentions of both George Boleyn and the King! Of course she does. This reminded me of the kind of self-insertion that happens in some fan fiction: the Mary-Sue effect. It was increasingly hard for me to take the story seriously.
There was one scene in particular where Beth, a male friend, and the Professor all end up in modern dress with Anne at Hever Sorry, that just had me rolling my eyes. It might have been a good opportunity to send the bag of books and iPhone back to the future but …
In the closing Notes to the Reader, Phillipa Vincent-Connolly writes: “I wish to stress that although the historical aspects of this book are loosely based on original sources, digital archives, and academic accounts, Beth’s character and her experiences in the Tudor period were used as an entertaining device to creatively retell Anne’s story, and is written purely for the readers’ enjoyment, and to entertain.”
Reading this disclaimer, which might have been better at the opening, I thought fair enough and looking at the glowing reviews, it appears that other readers didn’t have any problem with suspending their disbelief. Yet for me this just didn’t work.
Will I read on? As the series is available via Kindle Unlimited, I might; especially to find out if the issue of the 21st Century artefacts are ever addressed and whether Beth can resist the urge to intervene. I expect given her behaviour to date that she will meddle, perhaps inadvertently. What on earth made Professor Marshall think this was a good idea? Where are the Time Police when you need them?
December 15, 2022
Elizabeth (Beth) Wickers is a 2nd year history student, with a passion for Tudor England, and specifically with Anne Boleyn. When Professor Marshall gives Beth a box of books on Tudor history, she never imagines that things will never be the same again. Amongst the books is a ring with the letters ‘AB’ inscribed – the ring is the key to a time-travel portal that transports her to Hever Castle in 1522 and specifically to Anne Boleyn’s bedroom!
Beth quickly becomes enchanted by Tudor England and becomes good friends with Anne, who has just returned from France, but she must remain careful – her knowledge of what happens a few years later is ever-present and I liked the way that the author portrayed Beth’s struggles with how much she could tell in the past, and how she had to be so careful not to change the course of history. The book is set in the early 1520s, before Anne’s relationship with Henry VIII began, but includes reference to her secret betrothal to Henry Percy, her sister Mary’s relationship with King Henry and the “Chateau Vert” pageant.
When Beth is in the past, we get insights into Tudor life, from the clothes to the food, and into the places she went including some of the royal residences that no longer exist. Beth also interacts with some key Tudor figures including George Boleyn, Cardinal Wolsey, Queen Katharine (of Aragon), and King Henry VIII himself.
I didn’t feel the inclusion of Beth’s not-exactly-boyfriend was necessary & the way he pressured her at the end of the book didn’t really sit well for me with Beth’s previous character. I felt that she would have at least discussed it with her professor!
The book has intrigue, secret passages, illicit relationships and there are some lovely moments such as the inclusion of Tudor historian Suzannah Lipscomb giving a guest lecture at Beth's university, but the quality of writing is quite poor, and there is nothing that gives a new or different viewpoint from the well-known story, so this is not a book I would recommend as a piece of great historic fiction but it does have a charm.
Like many time-travel books, the reader needs to suspend belief on numerous occasions! I struggle to acknowledge that Anne would just accept a time traveller appearing, or that the Boleyn family would not dig deeply into her background. We are never told what happens to Beth’s belongings between time shifts – are we really meant to believe they remain undetected under Anne’s bed forever? However, I can see this as a “made for TV” miniseries - and of course it makes you wonder again “what if we *could* go back and live in the past?”
The book ends before Anne becomes romantically involved with Henry VIII – if the second book in the series is on offer I think I would pick it up to see what the author chooses to portray next, and hope that her writing style has evolved, but I’m afraid I wouldn’t pay full price for it.
Disclosure: I received an advance reader copy of this book free via NetGalley. Whilst thanks go to the author & publisher for the opportunity to read it, all opinions are my own & my review is left voluntarily.
Beth quickly becomes enchanted by Tudor England and becomes good friends with Anne, who has just returned from France, but she must remain careful – her knowledge of what happens a few years later is ever-present and I liked the way that the author portrayed Beth’s struggles with how much she could tell in the past, and how she had to be so careful not to change the course of history. The book is set in the early 1520s, before Anne’s relationship with Henry VIII began, but includes reference to her secret betrothal to Henry Percy, her sister Mary’s relationship with King Henry and the “Chateau Vert” pageant.
When Beth is in the past, we get insights into Tudor life, from the clothes to the food, and into the places she went including some of the royal residences that no longer exist. Beth also interacts with some key Tudor figures including George Boleyn, Cardinal Wolsey, Queen Katharine (of Aragon), and King Henry VIII himself.
I didn’t feel the inclusion of Beth’s not-exactly-boyfriend was necessary & the way he pressured her at the end of the book didn’t really sit well for me with Beth’s previous character. I felt that she would have at least discussed it with her professor!
The book has intrigue, secret passages, illicit relationships and there are some lovely moments such as the inclusion of Tudor historian Suzannah Lipscomb giving a guest lecture at Beth's university, but the quality of writing is quite poor, and there is nothing that gives a new or different viewpoint from the well-known story, so this is not a book I would recommend as a piece of great historic fiction but it does have a charm.
Like many time-travel books, the reader needs to suspend belief on numerous occasions! I struggle to acknowledge that Anne would just accept a time traveller appearing, or that the Boleyn family would not dig deeply into her background. We are never told what happens to Beth’s belongings between time shifts – are we really meant to believe they remain undetected under Anne’s bed forever? However, I can see this as a “made for TV” miniseries - and of course it makes you wonder again “what if we *could* go back and live in the past?”
The book ends before Anne becomes romantically involved with Henry VIII – if the second book in the series is on offer I think I would pick it up to see what the author chooses to portray next, and hope that her writing style has evolved, but I’m afraid I wouldn’t pay full price for it.
Disclosure: I received an advance reader copy of this book free via NetGalley. Whilst thanks go to the author & publisher for the opportunity to read it, all opinions are my own & my review is left voluntarily.
November 5, 2022
The copy I had was called ‘The Anne Boleyn Cipher’ recently released on NetGalley and it’s my first time reading anything by this author. And it was SUCH a brilliant book. I don’t understand any reviews giving this less than 4 because it had me HOOKED and thoroughly on the edge of my seat. It’s honestly a contender for one of the best books I’ve read so far this year.
Now I love a historical fiction book. And I love a historical non fiction book. I just love history. And this book hit every mark I could possibly want.
The tudors are such an interesting area of history and the whole premise for this book is outstanding. I love the plot and the set up as a whole and will send out my plea now for the author to never stop writing these books. I could read them ad infinitum. I’m also going to be staring into the void now waiting for the next book to come out. Wish I had a time travelling ring so I can go into the future and read it stat!
I loved how this history was portrayed and how us as readers, could get an insight into what Anne Boleyn’s character may have been like, discovering the ‘living’ world of the tudors right along with Beth. They may be names in history textbooks when it comes to Cardinal Wolsey, Cromwell, the famed Henry VIII and so on, but this book brought them to life.
I also adored Beth’s character and she was very easy to like. This whole book was just so easy to slip into and lose yourself in. I never wanted to put it down and I both never wanted it to end, and wanted to read it as fast as I could to see what was going to happen! I tried to slow it down without much success and just devoured it. Certainly need this addition to my physical shelf as it sure as hell will be a reread in the future as it was such a joy to read.
I will force my essay to it’s conclusion now as I think I could wax lyrical about this book forever, so ill sum up: much enjoyed, 10/10 and it’s a great book you won’t regret getting stuck into.
Now I love a historical fiction book. And I love a historical non fiction book. I just love history. And this book hit every mark I could possibly want.
The tudors are such an interesting area of history and the whole premise for this book is outstanding. I love the plot and the set up as a whole and will send out my plea now for the author to never stop writing these books. I could read them ad infinitum. I’m also going to be staring into the void now waiting for the next book to come out. Wish I had a time travelling ring so I can go into the future and read it stat!
I loved how this history was portrayed and how us as readers, could get an insight into what Anne Boleyn’s character may have been like, discovering the ‘living’ world of the tudors right along with Beth. They may be names in history textbooks when it comes to Cardinal Wolsey, Cromwell, the famed Henry VIII and so on, but this book brought them to life.
I also adored Beth’s character and she was very easy to like. This whole book was just so easy to slip into and lose yourself in. I never wanted to put it down and I both never wanted it to end, and wanted to read it as fast as I could to see what was going to happen! I tried to slow it down without much success and just devoured it. Certainly need this addition to my physical shelf as it sure as hell will be a reread in the future as it was such a joy to read.
I will force my essay to it’s conclusion now as I think I could wax lyrical about this book forever, so ill sum up: much enjoyed, 10/10 and it’s a great book you won’t regret getting stuck into.
July 26, 2021
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to time travel back to meet Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn?
Then this wonderful novel is definitely for you. Beautifully written and extremely well-researched, it tells Anne Boleyn’s story through the eyes of a modern day history student, Beth Wickers, who happens to have a rather mysterious history professor with some unusual teaching aids.
I found myself totally swept up in the story which is very original and thought-provoking. What if we could all go back? What would we ask? How would the Tudor world look to a 21st century visitor? Ms Vincent-Connolly’s book is exciting, humorous and intriguing. The unwavering attention to the finer details of Tudor England made it very easy to turn up in the sixteenth century with Beth as our guide. I don’t want to give too much away, only to say that all the old favourites are there. The charismatic Boleyns; the flirtatious poet, Thomas Wyatt; long-suffering Queen Katherine; a decidedly scheming Thomas Wolsey. And of course, last but not least, Henry Tudor.
Moving between the two worlds of modern and Tudor made for a gripping read that made me eager to pick it up again. I highly recommend it.
Then this wonderful novel is definitely for you. Beautifully written and extremely well-researched, it tells Anne Boleyn’s story through the eyes of a modern day history student, Beth Wickers, who happens to have a rather mysterious history professor with some unusual teaching aids.
I found myself totally swept up in the story which is very original and thought-provoking. What if we could all go back? What would we ask? How would the Tudor world look to a 21st century visitor? Ms Vincent-Connolly’s book is exciting, humorous and intriguing. The unwavering attention to the finer details of Tudor England made it very easy to turn up in the sixteenth century with Beth as our guide. I don’t want to give too much away, only to say that all the old favourites are there. The charismatic Boleyns; the flirtatious poet, Thomas Wyatt; long-suffering Queen Katherine; a decidedly scheming Thomas Wolsey. And of course, last but not least, Henry Tudor.
Moving between the two worlds of modern and Tudor made for a gripping read that made me eager to pick it up again. I highly recommend it.
October 20, 2022
I love reading about Anne Boleyn. This book was such a refreshing change.
Elizabeth (Beth) Wickers is a history University student. One day her favourite lecturer gives her a box of books. These are for her to borrow and are based on Tudor history. In the box is an ornate cipher ring with the letters AB inscribed onto it.
When she slips on the ring she is transported back to 1521 and he’s at Hever Castle. She is in the bedroom of Lady Anne Boleyn.
This is the start of Beth‘s time travels. She is able to see firsthand how Anne and her family are at court and what Lady Anne is really like. While it feels like she is away for months she is actually only away for hours or days from modern life. One important factors she must do nothing to alter history despite what she knows. This becomes difficult when her heart starts leading her head.
I so want this book to be made into a TV series. It’s brilliant and I love the whole concept the author has created. And to put you out your misery, I was relieved to see that this is the first book in a series. I for one can’t wait to get my hands on the next instalment.
Elizabeth (Beth) Wickers is a history University student. One day her favourite lecturer gives her a box of books. These are for her to borrow and are based on Tudor history. In the box is an ornate cipher ring with the letters AB inscribed onto it.
When she slips on the ring she is transported back to 1521 and he’s at Hever Castle. She is in the bedroom of Lady Anne Boleyn.
This is the start of Beth‘s time travels. She is able to see firsthand how Anne and her family are at court and what Lady Anne is really like. While it feels like she is away for months she is actually only away for hours or days from modern life. One important factors she must do nothing to alter history despite what she knows. This becomes difficult when her heart starts leading her head.
I so want this book to be made into a TV series. It’s brilliant and I love the whole concept the author has created. And to put you out your misery, I was relieved to see that this is the first book in a series. I for one can’t wait to get my hands on the next instalment.
October 28, 2022
I was lucky enough to be able to read this book from NetGalley for a review. First off, the premise of the book is clever and I really liked how it started. However, I must say, there are too many glaring typographical errors throughout this book, that it bothered me so much. Also, I am not certain that one should be speaking in the current English language when one is in Tudor England. You don't use slang - er, eh, etc. What I did like was the comparison from the current day items (ie: toothbrush/toothpaste/headache pills, clothing) to what was non-existent at the time.
This books does not have the polish nor facts that most Tudor books have, but I will read the next books in the series just to see how it all ends. All in all, an entertaining read.
This books does not have the polish nor facts that most Tudor books have, but I will read the next books in the series just to see how it all ends. All in all, an entertaining read.
December 15, 2022
Thank you NetGalley for this book.
I've always been interested in Anne Boleyn, and I really wanted to like this book, but it really fell flat for me. I kept trying to go back to it, and just couldn't finish it. The concept is great, but it read like a book report to me. Lots of narration from the main character telling you everything instead of, I don't know... helping you experience what it was like? I felt like I was reading a history book. However, it might be a great read for a younger audience learning about the era and historical figures, just not a great novelization in my opinion.
I've always been interested in Anne Boleyn, and I really wanted to like this book, but it really fell flat for me. I kept trying to go back to it, and just couldn't finish it. The concept is great, but it read like a book report to me. Lots of narration from the main character telling you everything instead of, I don't know... helping you experience what it was like? I felt like I was reading a history book. However, it might be a great read for a younger audience learning about the era and historical figures, just not a great novelization in my opinion.
November 21, 2023
This is an interesting time, travel scenario where the main character can travel backwards and forwards as she chooses and interacts with characters in the past. The main character that she meets is aware of this. A further complication is that in the past, time travel follows a different timescale to her present day. The line between interfering with the post and observing is tricky- Beth tends to cross it several times, leading to unfortunate consequences, such as her use of modern items. Despite this, it is an enjoyable story and I look forward to her story continuing.
April 23, 2021
As someone who loves The Tudors, especially Anne Boleyn, I absolutely loved this book. It was so well researched and written, that I felt as if I was there alongside Beth and Anne.
I enjoyed seeing Beth, a history student, spending time with her historic idols, which would be any history lovers dream.
I really can't wait for volume two to be released so we can see what will happen to Beth, and if anything she has done will have an impact on the future, or will everything remain the same.
I enjoyed seeing Beth, a history student, spending time with her historic idols, which would be any history lovers dream.
I really can't wait for volume two to be released so we can see what will happen to Beth, and if anything she has done will have an impact on the future, or will everything remain the same.
October 26, 2021
This was a very immersive time-travel experience that I really enjoyed. Perfect for Tudor enthusiasts, it had just enough historic realism despite the fantastical twist. The perfect novel for Anne Boleyn fans that wonder "what if you could go back and fix it all?"
Full of modern and historical insight, the book ends on a hook that leaves you eager for more. I cannot wait to read the rest of this series.
Full of modern and historical insight, the book ends on a hook that leaves you eager for more. I cannot wait to read the rest of this series.
July 17, 2023
THE ANNE BOLEYN CYPHER by Phillipa Vincent-Connolly had a simple storyline with no depth, this time-travel story was not one I enjoyed. There were plenty of mistakes, like addressing Henry Percy as a Duke of Northumberland when he was Earl of Northumberland, I really have a problem with writers who can't get REAL characters titles right. I was really looking forward to this book with all the raving reviews, my recommendation would be to take a pass with this one.
November 14, 2022
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Trying on a cypher ring, Beth Wickers finds herself in Hever Castle, 1521, in Tudor England. Encountering Anne Boleyn, Beth is not sure if she should divulge Anne's horrific end to her, or keep it to herself and concentrate on her return to her home and friends. Well written historical fiction.
Trying on a cypher ring, Beth Wickers finds herself in Hever Castle, 1521, in Tudor England. Encountering Anne Boleyn, Beth is not sure if she should divulge Anne's horrific end to her, or keep it to herself and concentrate on her return to her home and friends. Well written historical fiction.
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