Published: July 8, 2014 by Broadway Books
I've read so many books about English royalty, but I believe this is the first I've read from the 1300s. Although I'm sure it won't be the last since there's several, Katherine by Anya Seton and The First Princess of Wales by Karen Harper specially, that I've been wanting to read for a while now.
Going into this I knew nothing of Joan of Kent or Edward III and while I wouldn't call myself an expert now, I know far more than I would have expected. This book is so detailed, and feels so well researched. It's hard without something to compare it to, but it really did ring true to the period.
But with all that detail sometimes the story gets lost. Yes, I was invested in Joan's life and I couldn't wait to see who'd she'd end up with, but it seemed to take forever to get there. There seemed to be page after page, again full of details, but ones that didn't move the story forward.
Which is why is almost surprising how quickly everything developed in the last 100 pages. It almost seemed a somewhat lengthy version of an epilogue. I still enjoyed the overall story, but I think it would have been better if the first 300 pages or so were shortened and the last 100 lengthened. I just think it would have felt a little more balanced that way.
Nevertheless, I really enjoyed my visit to the 1300s, and I'm actually anxious to get back. There are so many interesting characters, Edward II's Queen Isabella especially, that I was a bit fascinated by and am hoping to find more books that delve more into their history.
3.5/5
If you're ready to escape to the 1300s, I have a copy of this book for you! US or Canada only. Please use the rafflecopter form below to enter.
I would love to win because I am in need of something good to read. (: thank you. My email is perezashley60@hotmail.com
ReplyDeleteThis looks like an interesting read. Thanks for the giveaway.
ReplyDeleteKimberlee
girllostinabook@hotmail.com
www.girllostinabook.com
I like well researched historical novels. Sounds good. I'll have to look for it.
ReplyDeleteThis historical sounds fascinating. Thanks for this feature. saubleb(at)gmail(dot)com
ReplyDeleteI've never read a novel set in the 1300's. Could be interesting!
ReplyDeleteI'd like to read something set in the 1300s. We get a lot of later stuff (with Henry VIII and his family) but nothing this early.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds so interesting! I've never read anything from this time period either!
ReplyDeleteThanks for being a part of the tour!
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