Boy

From critically acclaimed author Nicole Galland comes a vibrant and thought-provoking historical tale of love, political intrigue, and gender-swapping set in the theatre world of Elizabethan London. Alexander Sander Cooke is the most celebrated boy player in the Chamberlains Men, William Shakespeares theatre company. Indeed, Sanders androgynous beauty and deft portrayal of female roles have made him the toast of London, and his companionship is sought by noblewomen and -men alike. And yet, now at the height of his fame, he teeters on the cusp of adulthood, his future uncertain. Often, he wishes he could stop time and remain a boy forever. Joan Buckler, Sanders best friend, also has a dream. Though unschooled, she is whip-smart and fascinated by the snippets of natural philosophy to which shes been exposed. And while she senses that Sanders admiration for her is more than mere friendship, Joans true passion is knowledge, something that is nearly impossible for her to attain. As a woman, she has no place in the intellectual salons and cultural community of the day; only in disguise can she learn to her hearts content. Joans covert intellectual endeavors, coupled with Sanders theatrical triumphs, attract the attention of none other than Francis Bacon: natural philosopher and trusted adviser to Queen Elizabeth. It is through their connection with Baconone of the greatest minds of their timethat their lives will be changed forever as they become embroiled in an intricate game of political intrigue that threatens their very survival. Brimming with heart, curiosity, and rich historical detail, Boy offers an intimate glimpse of the moral complexities of a singular artistic era, and the roles we all choose to play on the worlds stage.