Release Date: October 18 2011
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Format: ARC Paperback
Pages:440
Genre: Historical Fiction/Romance
Source: Publisher
Goodreads Synopsis:
Descended from Melusina, the river goddess, Jacquetta always has had the gift of second sight. As a child visiting her uncle, she met his prisoner, Joan of Arc, and saw her own power reflected in the young woman accused of witchcraft. They share the mystery of the tarot card of the wheel of fortune before Joan is taken to a horrific death at the hands of the English rulers of France. Jacquetta understands the danger for a woman who dares to dream.
Jacquetta is married to the Duke of Bedford, English regent of France, and he introduces her to a mysterious world of learning and alchemy. Her only friend in the great household is the duke's squire Richard Woodville, who is at her side when the duke's death leaves her a wealthy young widow. The two become lovers and marry in secret, returning to England to serve at the court of the young King Henry VI, where Jacquetta becomes a close and loyal friend to his new queen.
The Woodvilles soon achieve a place at the very heart of the Lancaster court, though Jacquetta can sense the growing threat from the people of England and the danger of royal rivals. Not even their courage and loyalty can keep the House of Lancaster on the throne. Henry the king slides into a mysterious sleep; Margaret the queen turns to untrustworthy favorites for help; and Richard, Duke of York, threatens to overturn the whole kingdom for his rival dynasty.
Jacquetta fights for her king, her queen, and for her daughter Elizabeth for whom Jacquetta can sense an extraordinary and unexpected future: a change of fortune, the throne of England, and the white rose of York.
A sweeping, powerful story rich in passion and legend and drawing on years of research, The Lady of the Rivers tells the story of the real-life mother of the white queen.
Jacquetta is married to the Duke of Bedford, English regent of France, and he introduces her to a mysterious world of learning and alchemy. Her only friend in the great household is the duke's squire Richard Woodville, who is at her side when the duke's death leaves her a wealthy young widow. The two become lovers and marry in secret, returning to England to serve at the court of the young King Henry VI, where Jacquetta becomes a close and loyal friend to his new queen.
The Woodvilles soon achieve a place at the very heart of the Lancaster court, though Jacquetta can sense the growing threat from the people of England and the danger of royal rivals. Not even their courage and loyalty can keep the House of Lancaster on the throne. Henry the king slides into a mysterious sleep; Margaret the queen turns to untrustworthy favorites for help; and Richard, Duke of York, threatens to overturn the whole kingdom for his rival dynasty.
Jacquetta fights for her king, her queen, and for her daughter Elizabeth for whom Jacquetta can sense an extraordinary and unexpected future: a change of fortune, the throne of England, and the white rose of York.
A sweeping, powerful story rich in passion and legend and drawing on years of research, The Lady of the Rivers tells the story of the real-life mother of the white queen.
My Thoughts:
I actually really enjoyed Lady of the Rivers. I am not a big Historical Fiction fan but this one had my attention. The story of Jaquetta and Richard is one that was heart warming and beautiful.
I have not read any other work from Philippa but I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. I thought her work was really well done and the character's were well portrayed. I really loved her descriptions throughout the novel. I had no issues picturing myself in 1443 France or England.
The trials and tribulations that Jaquetta and Richard have to go through for love were definitely admirable and made the novel an enjoyable read. Jaquetta is an extraordinary woman and I admired her greatly. Reading her story was very enjoyable. The emotions just poured off the pages. Philippa made this genre enjoyable for me.
Like I've said many times Historical Fiction is not a genre that I go out of my way to read but I really enjoyed The Lady of the Rivers. The witchcraft element spiced it up for me. I also like trying to put myself in the shoes of a girl who had to live through that time period.
It was a lovely change of pace for me and a refreshing read that I enjoyed far more than I thought I would. Philippa Gregory is an amazing author who is New York Times bestseller for a reason.
I Give This 4/5 Hearts
These are places where you can check out Philippa
If you would like a chance to win a meet and greet with Philippa Gregory check out the Philippa Gregory Sweeps on Simon and Schuster Canada
0 Comments:
Post a Comment