The Boleyn King by Laura Andersen (imaginary historical fiction)

This (hard breathing, shivering) romancemystery/adventure imagines that Anne Boleyn's son lived and became king.  It is pretty interesting, and fun reading.

The Duchess of Drury Lane by Freda Lightfoot (historical fiction)

Mrs. Dora Jordan plus a royal prince unfortunately equals a run-of-the-mill "actress with prince" historical novel.  Nothing too exciting or fun to see here.

Young Henry: The Rise of Henry VIII by Robert Hutchinson (nonfiction)

This book, while obviously well-researched and well-written, didn't teach me anything new about Henry.  I wasn't sure exactly what author's overall hypothesis was.  There didn't seem to be that much in Henry's childhood to explain his later behavior, except that he was spoiled.

Hercules directed by Pietro Francisci starring Steve Reeves (DVD)

 I loved this classic from 1957.  Amazingly hot Hercules, gorgeous Amazons and Golden Fleecers, all very innocent.  This movie is fun.

The Secret History of Vladimir Nabokov by Andrea Pitzer (nonfiction)

This made me love his books more and love him less.  If you are a Nab freak, it is required reading.  Even if you're not, it was pretty good.

Caligula (Bob Guccione and Penthouse Films Production) the Unrated Edition (DVD)

My roomie wanted to know why I was watching a porno in the living room.  I've always been told this movie is amazing, but I didn't think it captured the delicate edge that Caligula and the Senate danced on.  Instead, it was silly, loud and naked.

Agora directed by Alejandro Amenabar (DVD)

I found this movie about female philosopher Hypatia in the very late Roman period in Alexandria, Egypt a bit dumb and slow.  I didn't sit through it.