Loving Will Shakespeare


Anne Hathaway is simply a “yeoman’s daughter,” and Will Shakespeare is a boy who will someday grow up to write plays for the court of the queen of England–and leave his loving wife behind for the excitement of London. Anne is seven years older than Will. They are very different, but, despite their many differences, they become friends, and eventually lovers. Everyone has heard the tale of William Shakespeare’s will, and how he gives to Anne only is “Second best bed.” There have been many interpretations of that–is it some inside joke, or is did he simply feel his wife was second best? No one will ever know....




The cottage is probably much larger and better kept than it was when Anne lived here as a young girl.

Anne Hathaway's Cottage

Shakespeare's birthplace
And this is where Will Shakespeare grew up in the bustling market town of Stratford-upon-Avon. Anne Hathaway lived in the country, a mile or so away.

Here's the kind of reader review I love:


I loved the book from beginning to end. Every page made me squeal at how romantic it was, and how it ended. Before I wasn’t interested in history, but this changed my mind completely. It’s addicting, and it made me cry a lot in parts. This book really touched my heart, and I know I can’t change history, but I wish Will stayed with Anne longer…

Selected Works

YA Historical Fiction
First published in 1992, my first historical novel, to be reissued with a new cover in April 2012.
Cleopatra has been chosen to be the next queen of Egypt, but she faces ruthless competition from her sisters. (Watch a video of Carolyn on this page)
The dizzying rise and horrific downfall of the last queen of France. Young Royals series
Who would not fall in love with--or at least have a mad crush on--young Will!
Marie van Goethen was a dancer in 19th century Paris and modeled for Degas's famous sculpture.
A fictionalized account of the early life of Charles Darwin, narrated by Charley himself.
Mozart's talented sister, Nannerl, struggles to achieve life she deserves--in music as well as in love.

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