Portrait of an Unknown Woman

Vanora Bennett

This first novel is set in 1526. The painter Hans Holbein has travelled to England under the patronage of Sir Thomas More. Many distinguished artists, politicians, astrologers and men of religion visit More's house and two of them are irresistibly drawn to Meg, More's foster daughter. One is John Clements, a man with a mysterious background and compelling presence.

The other is Holbein, warm, ebullient and radical, whose portraits of the More family frame this story of political and religious turmoil, passion and painting in Tudor England.

Our reviewers said Portrait of an Unknown Woman is well written, an engaging love story and shows great promise for a first novel.

Sandie Attenborow,
St. Albans on Portrait of A Woman

A long but stunning book – A good mix of fact and fiction - skilfully done. Fairly easy to read from the start, not too many characters in the beginning and blended well to the finish, no ends left untied.

Sir Thomas More is a complex charming character showing two sides; loving, clever, entertaining, educated, but then also scheming, single minded and ruthless. His family and home create the background, the story revolves mainly around one of his wards Meg Giggs, who is intelligent who through her tutor John Clement, develops an interest in medicine.

This is a good portrayal of the sixteenth century, turbulent times, religious problems and relationships with the king and his court.  The book starts with the artist Hans Holbein coming to paint More and his family, and finishes with his return years later to do a second. His ability to observe and portray the real feelings and undercurrents in the family provides the twist in the story.

margaret, Manchester
I couldn't book this book down. Totally absorbing and beautifully written, a wonderful book to take to bed on these wintery wet evenings.

Clare, London
I read this because I loved Girl with a Pearl Earring and I was disappointed by the comparison. It is both a love story and a fascinating look at the history of the time. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who likes a good, absorbing read.

Leonie Olmesdahl.London
This is a really good read, and it drew me in right from the first line. I felt very involved with all the characters, especially Meg, and think it is a brilliant first novel.

Janet, Ilford, Essex
Really enjoyed the descriptive pieces in this story.It made me feel the time and the place without overdoing the religious content.Left me feeling involved with Meg and wanting more...

Deborah, London
I have read the first three chapters, its an interesting book and certainly good on detail. I think if you are into history and like a good love story, this is the one for you.