An interesting history of Margaret of Anjou and the French and British royalty of the 1400s as seen mostly from her point of view among others. In the back the author explains some liberties she took in the writing of the story which was interesting. She also discussed where history contradicts itself. I think I finally have a handle on how the Lancasters and the Yorks and the Tudors relate, or not. Fictionalized account of the life of Margaret of Anjou, Queen to King Henry VI and the throne of Lancaster, and mother to its heir, Edward Prince of Wales - not to mention arch-nemesis of Richard Plantagenet Duke of York and Richard Neville Earl of Warwick (although in a dramatic reversal at the end of his life they are allies, and he dies fighting for her cause). It was really nice to finally read something that flushes out Margaret of Anjou's character more. However, I'm not sure I agree with some of the plot choices. I like historical fiction that is based as much as possible, on historical fact. She doesn't have Jacquetta of Luxemburg in there much at all, when every history book I've read says that she and Margaret were probably close. She puts the Duchess of Suffolk there. While I thoroughly enjoy Susan's blog, and find it a great & helpful resource for mini-biographies that really beef out much forgotten about characters from history, I think her Queen of Last Hopes missed the mark and stopped just short of what could have been greatness. Due to the lack of other (sympathetic or even intelligent) accounts of Margaret of Anjou, I would still recommend this book to lovers of women in history and of this time period.
What do You think about Son Umutlar Kraliçesi (2000)?
Good historical fiction --- great action. The author brought the characters alive and robust.
—tara
Attempt to make characters likeable fails, making them uncompelling to boot.
—Carter
Decent read, a bit bodice ripping for my tastes but fun.
—tree
