Monday, August 13, 2012

The Red Queen- Philippa Gregory

Book: The Red Queen
Author: Philippa Gregory
Page Number: 424

Summary-
          Margaret Beaufort is heiress to the house of Lancaster, the royal house of England, who is in constant struggle with the their opposing house of York for the throne. At a young age Margaret wishes to give her life to God's will, but is instead married at the young age of 12, and gives birth to a son that she is determined to see as King of England. Margaret must watch her step as she is forced into loveless marriages, alliances, treason, and civil war as she works toward her dream of restoring Lancaster to the throne, becoming "My Lady and King's Mother", and "Signing her name Margaret R."

My Opinion-
       I have a bias for Philippa Gregory and her novels. I love the Tutor era, and love Gregory's writing style. Historical fiction is a genre I enjoy, and I find the characters in her books to  be complex and well rounded; this novel was no difference.
       Margaret was hypocritical, self-righteous, stubborn, and in many instances immature; but she was also determined, smart, and a realistic character. I thought her to have more flaws than saving graces, but this kept me entranced. Margaret Beaufort was refreshingly human and therefore relatable.
        The story line was detailed, visual, and easy to follow. Though the novel covers a span of many years, the pace is neither to fast or too slow. All the information you need to follow the story is given in ways that don't feel burdensome or boring, and you will feel yourself sucked into the drama of the time.
           In short, I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to those who love historical fiction and drama, but would tell those who can't stand to read about a character they wouldn't like in real life to stay away.


1 comment:

  1. Ash you sound so studious in your posts. Like you're a student or something. . . ;)

    ReplyDelete