In The Revolt French novelist Clara Dupont-Monod tackles the story of Eleanor of Aquitaine as she turns her children against their father Henry Plantagenet; King of England. In this slender volume the author condenses a large swathe of history in compact and elegant language. The book is for the most part narrated by Richard the Lionheart; Eleanor's favourite son although we also get a glimpse at Eleanor's inner thoughts and even at one point Henry's. We see Elenor's charm and magnetism, through the eyes of her son, her husband and those around them. As Richard tells her story we see his conflict as he struggles to be a loyal son, a soldier, a King, a brother. There are shifting alliances, betrayals, battles and Richard's own growth from favoured son to crusader and cruel warrior. This is a an enchanting book which will of course appeal to readers of historical fiction but may also delight fans of fantasy as Eleanor revels in her own legendary status and explores mythology, poetry and Arthurian legend.
Thanks to Corinna at Quercus for sending me a copy of the book for review. The Revolt is available in trade paperback and e-book now.
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