When Matilda’s husband, the German Emperor, died Germany had no use for her. Since she didn’t have a son, the thrown went to someone else. Thankfully, her father, King Henry I of England sent for her to return home. At least she knew she wouldn’t end up in a German nunnery.
When she returned home Matilda met her new sep mother, Queen Adeliza. They were very close in age and became fast friends. Then Matilda found out her father had great plans for her, indeed. She was to become Queen of England, at least until her unborn son could rule. First Henry had to find her a new husband, so she could have a son. He found just the “man”, a almost 14 year old boy named, Geoffrey from Anjou.
Matilda detested Geoffrey and he felt the same about her however, they were able to fulfill their duty and had sons. Although all the barons of England swore allegiance to Matilda and promised to follow her, when Henry died, the swore allegiance to her cousin Stephen and he was crowned. Meanwhile, Matilda still had some faithful followers and with their help over the years, she struggles with Stephen over the crown.
This is the best Elizabeth Chadwick book yet! The cast of both real and imagined characters are brought back to life in living color. I could see and feel them in my imagination with the superb writing and research of Chadwick. I was totally immersed in this book as I have experienced with all of her books. This book is fast paced, with never a dull moment. If you love historical fiction, Elizabeth Chadwick is a must. Lady of the English would be a great book to start with.
5/5
Thanks to Laura Brotzman of Sourcebooks for the advance reader copy of this book.
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