In this, the first of a trilogy, Plaidy invites the readers into the world of Catherine de Medici. Plaidy has been called one of the great historical fiction writers of the 20th century, particularly in her focus of European history and the female players that shaped its development. They represent an era of historical fiction that has been eclipsed by modern and less formal writing such as that of Gore Vidal and Margaret George. Plaidy novels give an informed spin on the royals and are always satisfying. She speaks with a dispassionate formality that makes her diabolical plans sound like sweet reason. The dialog is a bit stilted, but works great for Catherine. Queen Jeanne of Navarre did die just after she signed the marriage contract pursued by Catherine. In the introduction, Plaidy notes how her narrative on Catherine’s alleged poisonings fits the historical record: King Francis did die after drinking from a cup and it did pave the way for Catherine to rule through young Charles and ship would be rival, Mary, back to Scotland. It poses the personalities, passions and motives that may have formed the back story of St. It is a deeply romantic story of teenagers in love forced to acquiesce to marriages that further their families’ ambitions. This novel is as much the story of Jeanne of Navarre as it is Catherine. It might have mattered to him to know his nationalism was misplaced.

Except to poor Sebastiano, who meets an extremely unpleasant end, executed by being torn apart by four horses. Does she mean Florence? The Papal States? All of the incessantly warring city-states on the peninsula?

I'm not sure what geographic entity Catherine is referring to.

'Yes, Sebastiano,' she said, 'for the sake of your country you would gladly die a thousand deaths.your name would be remembered throughout Italy forever, with honor, my dear Count, with reverence.One day, Sebastiano, you will be called upon to do great deeds for our country.' (pg. You and I would die for our country.' (pg. 'Oh, our poor country, Sebastiano! Our poor suffering country! I know how you feel. Not politically, not linguistically, and definitely not like this: It's probably not fair to be nitpicky about historical accuracy.īut Italy was not a country in the 1500s.

Okay, I know this book isn't exactly serious literature.

Madame serpent by jean plaidy