The Silken Rose heralds the start of a brand new series from Carol McGrath author of the wonderful Hastings trilogy which focused on women connected to the Norman conquest of England. The new series focuses on Medieval Queens who were branded as she-wolves and the first book tells the story of Ailenor of Provence who arrived in England in 1236 as a girl of thirteen to marry the pious Henry III. Carol McGrath has a remarkable ability to bring the medieval era to life, with characters who spring from the page and exquisite detail of everyday life; food, clothing, weather, traditions and behaviour that make the reader feel entirely immersed in the period. Ailenor is spoiled and manipulative reminding the reader that although she is a Queen, she is also barely more than a child. Her spending, her insistence on getting her own way and her manipulation of the King often lead to trouble for both, though Ailenor is at the same time revealed to be a skilled diplomat. The story also focuses on Rosalind an ambitious young seamstress who befriends the Queen and through her eyes we see the danger of being part of the inner circle at court and how quickly a fall can come. The court of Henry III is a treacherous place as courtiers scheme, maniplulate and cheat thier way to power and influence while Henry proves to be weak and ineffectual. Many of the English nobles feel slighted by Ailenor and her people as Henry rewards his wife's friends and relatives with powerful and influential positions. And it's not long before discontent bubbles over into revolt. A page turning tale from a skillful author. Perfect for fans of Philippa Gregory, Joanna Courtney and Anne O'Brien. The Silken Rose is out now in paperback from Headline.
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