Elizabeth Chadwick (1) (1957–)

This novel was my first encounter with Eleanor of Aquitaine in anything other than some broad European history classes in high school and college and with Elizabeth Chadwick, an author whose attention to detail made these historical figures come to life for me. I devoured this 500-page book in less than two partial days: the storytelling was that compelling. Although I have long been a fan of historical novels, I have confined most of my reading in that genre to novels from the 18th century onward. It is only recently that I began to read novels from earlier eras. I was skeptical that a story set in medieval times would hold my interest, so I was pleasantly surprised at how effortlessly I was drawn into this 12th century world, due largely to Ms. Chadwick's meticulous research and plain, but rich, writing style. I am so looking forward to starting the second book in this trilogy, The Winger Crown.… (meer)

Slow start for me with this one but since it was suggested by a friend I pressed on and I'm glad I did!

It has a bit of everything. History, war, politics, romance. It's like real world Game of Thrones. It made me embarrassed at how little I know about this period of history but also glad because I have no idea what's going to happen and if I knew my English Kings the story would be spoiled!

I bought this first book in a trilogy in a set with all three bundled and I will continue the series but probably not right away.… (meer)