DAUGHTER OF THE SUN by Gemma Lawrence @TudorTweep

5 out of 5 stars

On Amazon (universal link)

How I discovered this book: a favourite author whose new releases I usually buy immediately.

In a Nutshell: the early life of Eleanor of Aquitaine

This reminded me of the beginning of Gemma Lawrence's series about Anne Boleyn, in that it gives so much detail about the less well known, early life of an exceptional historical figure, showing how she became a woman centuries ahead of her time.

Ms Lawrence's Eleanor is not always particularly likeable (she seems most pleased with herself, particularly for the first two thirds of the book, though some might say with good reason) but the fascinating beginning of this full and eventful life was a joy to read.  I also enjoyed reading about how different the geographical borders of the world were then; countries, duchies, principalities and kingdoms that no longer exist, which does remind one that countries and borders are man-made constructs.

The part of the book I liked most was the second half, covering the period of the Second Crusade - this was absolutely riveting, throughout.  Couldn't put it down, I was excited to turn each page, and the book is worthy of 5* for this part alone.

As is usual for this author's novels, it is written in the first person.  Lawrence's Eleanor has much to say about the subjugation of women and the folly of men, though given her experiences this is hardly surprising.  The book ends as she becomes close to her third cousin Henry, later to become Henry II, and whom she marries.

I am SO looking forward to reading the next book!

'I would not have let him keep you prisoner,' growled the young idealist.  'By the eyes of God!  I would not!'

CHILD OF WATER by Gemma Lawrence @TudorTweep

5 out of 5 stars

On Amazon UK
On Amazon.com
On Goodreads

 

How I discovered this book: I've read almost all of this author's books and always look forward to a new one.

In A Nutshell:  The early life of Empress Matilda, Book #1 of the Heirs of Anarchy series.

The early years of Matilda, granddaughter of William the Conqueror, who, at the age of 8, was sent to marry the Holy Roman Emperor Henry V.  Child of Water takes us through Matilda's younger years as she leaves England a child, and, under tuition from her beloved Heinrich and others, becomes the wife, Empress and regent he wants her to be.  After his death, she is recalled to England by her father, King Henry I of England.

I loved this book, which taught me a great deal about a period in history of which I know little.  I hadn't realised, for instance, that Geoffrey of Anjou was so much younger than her.  Matilda's path from precocious child to extraordinarily intelligent and perceptive young woman, beloved by her people and adored by her husband, is beautifully and convincingly written, as is her disorientation when she realises her only option, as a widow, is to return to her father's court, where she is received very differently—and her frustration about the lot of women, even her perceptions of freedom versus the reality.

One aspect of this book that I liked very much was the intricate detail about how the people lived, particularly the descriptions of London on Matilda's return.  Although not always part of the story it did not seem out of place, but gave a more three-dimensional background to Matilda's life.  I have enjoyed passages like this in this author's previous books, and am glad that she included more domestic and historical detail in this one; that it is a story of England, not just the main characters.  The author's notes at the back add extra snippets of information.

The book ends with Matilda's marriage to Geoffrey planta genista....I am so looking forward to reading the rest of the series, and her struggles for the throne against her cousin, Stephen.  Well done, Ms Lawrence!