The Sister Queens is the second novel I have
read about Marguerite and Eleanor, who both become Queens. The two sisters grew
up together at their father's-Count Raymond of Provence-court. They are separated
at an early age to marry, they find their life as they know it completely changed
and become two extraordinary women who face many challenges.
Marguerite marries King Louis of France and is
often neglected by him. She struggles to fulfill her role as Queen by his side.
The reason for her struggles is due to her domineering
and often time’s cruel mother-in-law, Blanche of Castile. Blanche’s influence
over her son is strong as is her involvement in the governance of France.
Eleanor, whose husband is King Henry III of
England, is not considered a strong leader to his kingdom but is a good husband
and adores her. But as the years go by their marriage becomes strained and
Eleanor struggles to bring back that spark in their relationship.
Although this story centers on Marguerite and
Eleanor, they have two other sisters- Beatrice and Sanchia- who married the
brothers of King Henry and King Louis. Their marriages help bond the
relationship between the two countries. The marriages of all the sisters were
obviously for political advantage and more power. Which is intriguing to read
about and I find that I admire their courage, strength and their amazing resilience
to adapt to any situation they encounter.
At the beginning of each chapter you read a
letter from Marguerite to Eleanor and vice versa- as they corresponded through
the years. As I read their letters, I found myself enthralled with their
devotion to each other. For me, the letters were the highlight of the story
told.
The alternating point of views told by the
two sisters was well developed and easy to follow along. One can tell Perinot
takes pride in her work and it shows through the pages and the characters
voices as their lives unfold. The compelling interpretation of Marguerite and
Eleanor is believable and admirable. Stories such as this are timeless and
Perinot brings the 13th century back to life through this captivating novel.
That is one of the reasons why I’m so drawn to historical fiction. I hold this
story in high affection and it is certainly praiseworthy!
I rated this story four and a half stars.
Stephanie
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