Unfortunately for Henry, many possible brides were understandably hesitant to marry a man notorious for his treatment of his previous wives. Because no woman emerged as the obvious choice, Thomas Cromwell's assessment of the religious and political pressures of the late 1530's led him to suggest one of the two daughters of the Duke of Cleves as a prospective bride. Anne was chosen, largely on the basis of her portrait and, once the idea was formed, Cromwell, in this typically thorough fashion, set about making it a reality. As a result, Anne quickly travelled to England to be Henry's new wife.

After a brief reign of just six months, she was 'a queen unqueened' - divorced, wealthy and independent. This book deals with her years of independence.