Helpful Score: 1
Knowing the general story from reading other accounts of this turbulent time period I expected, and accepted, that I might find parts of Ms Chadwick's novel a bit boring. I could not have been more wrong. Her account weaves the life stories of Empress Matilda (young widow of Henry V, Holy Roman Emperor and daughter/only direct heir of England's King Henry I) with that of her father's much younger second wife and Queen, Adelizer.
I didn't especially like Matilda but Chadwick's research gives the reader an insightful understanding of this strongly motivated medieval woman. During the 12th century, she and cousin Stephen vie for the right to rule England and Normandy. The ensuing 19 year civil war was a time of extreme hardship and strife, with political intrigue and treachery so rampant some players changed sides three times.
I found Adelizer's story told more of the everyday occurrences and quietly powerful role of an educated queen/wife/mother within the strict rules set during this period.
Chadwick's expertise also lies in her ability to bring to life these historical characters via details of clothing, food, arranged marriages, childbirth, castle life, battles, sieges, and "behind the scene" double-crosses without sounding like a textbook or historical "romance" novel.
I didn't especially like Matilda but Chadwick's research gives the reader an insightful understanding of this strongly motivated medieval woman. During the 12th century, she and cousin Stephen vie for the right to rule England and Normandy. The ensuing 19 year civil war was a time of extreme hardship and strife, with political intrigue and treachery so rampant some players changed sides three times.
I found Adelizer's story told more of the everyday occurrences and quietly powerful role of an educated queen/wife/mother within the strict rules set during this period.
Chadwick's expertise also lies in her ability to bring to life these historical characters via details of clothing, food, arranged marriages, childbirth, castle life, battles, sieges, and "behind the scene" double-crosses without sounding like a textbook or historical "romance" novel.
Helpful Score: 1
A fascinating story about the fight for the crown in medieval times. Matilda is such a strong character, and I was really drawn into her story. The ending felt a bit rushed, but otherwise a great novel.
