The Summer Queen by Elizabeth Chadwick

[Nalence]

One of the most powerful women in Europe during the Middle Ages, Eleanor was famed for her beauty and strong personality. Daughter of William X, Duke of Aquitaine, she became Duchess of the richest territory of Southern France at a very young age. She was only 13 when her sick father died in Spain during a pilgrimage of penance: Eleanor (Alienor in the novel) instantly became one of the most eligible heiresses in the continent. In order to protect her from vassals and the duchy, before his death, William arranged Alienor's marriage to Louis, son of Louis VI and heir to the throne of France. Louis was studying religion in a monastery, but his older brother and heir to the French throne died. Louis was therefore removed from the monastery to become heir to the throne. He became king soon after their marriage, as his father also died. Although their relationship started out well, it got worse in the end. I won't go into the details, the history is well known, and for those who aren't so familiar, I don't want to spoil it too much for you.

What I like about this book is that nearly entire book was devoted to her first marriage to Louis VII, King of France. So often this fact is quickly dismissed over in favor of second marriage to Henry II of England. Eleanor was married to Louis for fifteen years, they marriage had ups and downs, they had two daughters. So it was nice to read a book that covers that part of her life.

I also love Chadwick's portrayal of Eleanor (Alienor in the novel) for not using popular theories, but actually doing her own research. She isn't a tramp, as so many historians and historical fiction books like to make her out to be. She is so much more, intelligent, politically astute, strong and determined woman.

The Summer Queen is a novel about one of my favorite historical figures written by one of my favorite authors. I love how much detail is included, yet so easy to read. It's hard to put down. Highly recommend. You won't be disappointed.

[Nisha Ward]

Oh. This is great. I like monarchical history and novels that surround it, so this is already a plus. That it covers something I didn't even know about makes me want to read it even more.

[Nalence]

Oh. This is great. I like monarchical history and novels that surround it, so this is already a plus. That it covers something I didn't even know about makes me want to read it even more.

The Summer Queen is just the first part in the series about Eleanor of Aquitaine. I recommend reading them all. They are amazing.