Weir is well-known for her historical nonfiction; here she tries her hand at fiction and the results are...less enthralling. I don't even really mind, as some reviewers do, that sex is a primary motivator for most of the characters (it always has been!)--but Weir doesn't really have a gift for writing dialogue and her attempt to write snappy conversations that are fresh without being too modern doesn't always work; and every time there's a flase note it threw me right out of the book again. I knew little of Eleanor of Aquitaine until I read this magnificent fictionalisation of true events based on this great lady's life. After marrying Louis VII of France at a young age, Eleanor was able to find a way to annul their marriage and marry Henry FitzEmpress - aka Henry Plantagenet - who later became King Henry II of England. Together they parented two future English kings, namely Richard I and John.I was reasonably familiar with the accounts of Henry II and his conflict with sons Henry, Richard, and Geoffry, but there was a great deal I didn't know, including his treatment of Eleanor. This engrossing book delves deeper into the volatile and delicate situations, making it easier to understand. Henry II comes across as a proud and strong king, yet at the same time he doesn't prove the best of fathers, and certainly didn't win any husband of the year awards. He was one of England's most powerful kings, ruling lands from Scotland to the Spanish borders.Eleanor is painted as a fascinating and likable woman. The author has done a great job in bringing her to life.A majestic read.
What do You think about Tutsak Kraliçe (2009)?
This one dragged a little about 2/3 of the way through, but overall it was interesting.
—lizziebea
I really tried to finish this book but in the end I couldn't.
—blokwach
