The Lady of the Rivers is written by Philippa Gregory, and it is the first book I have read which is written by her. The story is about Jacquetta of Luxembourg, mother of Queen Elizabeth Woodville, wife of Edward IV and mother of Queen Elizabeth of York. It is narrated by Jacquetta so we see her life through her own eyes, which is one of the things I love about it. It follows her life from her marriage to the Duke of Bedford, her first husband, and ends with her daughter meeting the York King of England.
The book explores what aristocratic women during the 1400s went through, from marriages at a young age to protecting their family and inheritance. Jacquetta grew up in a country at war and was lady- in- waiting to one of the leading figures of the War of the Roses, Queen Margaret of Anjou, wife of Henry VI. Also, the book investigates witchcraft, which was punishable by death, as Jacquetta possessed it and Margaret of Anjou used it to see what would become of her future. Jacquetta had visions of the future, and this was explained with her connection to Melusina, the water goddess.
I really enjoyed reading this book as it opened up a new insight for me, into the life of Jacquetta of Luxembourg, a historic woman I didn’t know much about. I believe Jacquetta is often overshadowed by her daughter, as she became Queen of England as the wife of Edward IV, the York king. I’m currently reading the White Queen, which is about Elizabeth Woodville. However, Jacquetta still appears in the book alongside her daughter as she rises to power as Queen. Out of five stars, I would give the Lady of the Rivers four stars.
If there is a historical book you have read and would like to recommend to me, please leave a comment. I will also consider creating a post about different book reviews, with a range of comments from you and other people.
Hannah.
Comments