I've often wondered about the identity of Shakespeare's 'Dark Lady' of the sonnets, and why there are, apparently, 2 separate marriage entries for a William Shakespeare, just days apart, to 2 different women, in his local Parish records.
This story weaves a fictional account of Anne Whateley, one of those names in the Parish records of Temple Grafton near Stratford-upon-Avon. It cleverly weaves such facts as are known, such as the dates that Shakespeare's plays were performed, the lives and careers of other writers, actors and theatre patrons, with the politics of the times and the lives of Shakespeare's family members.
Anne Whateley tells us how she grows up in Temple Grafton, falls in love with Will Shakespeare, travels to London and is already established there, having inherited her father's merchant carrier business between the Midlands and London on his death, when Will arrives, intent on making a career with his pen and acting talent.
The pair embark on a tempestuous but strong relationship that lasts their lives long against a backdrop of political upheaval, which includes the abortive invasion of the Spanish Armada, plague, rebellion, the beheading of Mary, Queen of Scots, the death of Elizabeth and the crowning of James I.
A fascinating tale and a well researched history lesson. Good read.
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