Review - To Be Queen by Christy English

• Publisher: New American Library (5 April 2011)



• ISBN-13: 978-0451232304

The Blurb


Taught by her father, the Duke of Aquitaine, how to be powerful in the midst of the ruthless politics of the court, Eleanor learned at an early age to inspire live and loyalty in the people around her.  Those lessons serve the fifteen year old well when - after her father's sudden death - she is crowned Duchess of Aquitaine and becomes the most eligible, sought after woman in France...........



The Middle ages did not interest me in history lessons at school, and I have neglected this period in my historical fiction reading.


I accepted a copy of this novel, from the author, as I had heard good things about her writing.  Christy English has grabbed my attention with the fascinating story of Eleanor of Aquitaine's early life and first marriage. I want to know more about this little known Queen and this period in history.



Eleanor, at her father's side, had to grow up very quickly after her mother died, when she was only 8 years old.  Her father prepared her to become a Queen, showing her how to command the trust and loyalty of his people, something that was not easy for a young woman. 
He made arrangements for her to marry King Louis VII, making sure that her wealth and land would stay with her and pass only to her sons.  The marriage was built on politics and power rather than love and, although Eleanor pledged to be loyal to her husband, for the sake of her father, King Louis was under the influence of the Church.     


Eleanor served her husband, as her father wished,  for many years but their marriage would not produce a male heir.  King Louis joined The Crusades and Eleanor followed him as his dutiful Queen, but  in that time she would seek love elsewhere. She would never be accepted by King Louis's people or the church.


I was mesmerized by my first encounter with this amazing historical figure, following her story from from a young girl at her father's side through to the annulment of her first marriage.  She was an amazing woman driven by the need to be as strong and powerful as any man in the kingdom and the need to be adored by every man she came across.  
I admired her strength and determination to match any man, but I am not sure about her morals.


The author leaves the ending of this novel as Eleanor begins a new chapter in her life and I do wonder if the author will return with a sequel. 



4.5 out of 5 for me!  I really enjoyed it!