Monday, March 29, 2010

ABC Historical Fiction: Letter H

Just in time for another fortnight, here is my pick for the Letter

H
 My Enemy the Queen - A Historical Novel


I have to say that in this novel, Jean Plaidy did a fantastic job at portraying characters' worst traits.  The story was one of intrigue, suspense -which brought out in me, utter disgust for all of the main characters:  Queen Elizabeth, Lettice Devereux, Dearest(sarcastically) Robin- Earl of Leicester, and the totally obnoxious Earl of Essex (Lettice's son).

The entanglement of their lives, unhappiness, deviousness and so much more, had me hating each and everyone of these historical figures for awhile...But, one thing is for sure, Plaidy did catch my attention (she always does)- and made it so that I will never forget this book; I was completely hooked and could not put it down!

Read my review, and you'll see what I mean.

The ABC in Historical Fiction Challenge is hosted at Historical Tapestry.  I love this challenge because it brings back all of the memorable books I've read.  Come join:)



8 comments:

Anonymous said...

I have this book on my shelf. If I read it, it was a long time ago. will have to find it and read it (again?). Thanks for reminding me about it.

Lucy said...

Hi there Librarypat:) It really is a good book- especially if you like reading about Elizabeth..but unfortunately the combination of these four people made it that they were all detestable. Thanks!

BurtonReview said...

I reallllllly LOOVVEED this book, it was fantastic and wonderfullly portrayed. I really felt bad for Lettice, and she swiftly became one of my favorite characters. I think her daughter was Penelope and I have a book on her that I would like to read soon.

Rowenna said...

Thanks for the review! It's interesting how even "unlikeable" characters can still capture our attention as readers...must take some masterful writing to do so!

Marg said...

I read this book a few years ago now and totally enjoyed it! It reminded me again of how good a writer Victoria Holt/Jean Plaidy/whichever pseudonym she happened to be using really was!

Arleigh said...

I remember your reaction to this book! I can't say I admired any of the characters, but it was a fascinating look at the court of Elizabeth I.

Kirsten Steen said...

And we have a WINNER! Ms. Lucy, you won "The Best Travel Writing 2009" Book Giveaway! Thank you so much for posting it on your blog! You are such a sweetie (and those extra chances certainly must have helped!). Send me your mailing info at kirstensteen566@hotmail.com and I will get it out in the mail to you!
By the way, what books do you most recommend for the French historicals reading??! Does Jean Plaidy do any French ones or are all of hers British?
Happy Easter Weekend!
Kirsten

ceecee said...

Dear Lucy,

Wishing you a beautiful and joyous Easter!

Catherine