johnsnowwasright's review against another edition
5.0
This was a nice short history read that was well written and easy to read. It was clear how much research the author had done but he also didn't bog the prose down with a lot of dry facts. Also super happy that he made it clear that he believed Maurgerite and why it was very unlikely she was a false accuser. My only minor quibble is that the appendix should have been another chapter before the epilogue as it did add interesting context to how the affair was viewed by historians.
Now everyone go watch the movie because it's also excellent!
Now everyone go watch the movie because it's also excellent!
team_centerfold's review against another edition
4.0
Very well written and an excellent presentation of a story that has been warped across time and history. The author makes a valiant attempt to make an uncomfortable part of France's history easy to digest and understand.
While I greatly enjoyed all of the background and foundational information I know some people will find the book slow or dense.
While I greatly enjoyed all of the background and foundational information I know some people will find the book slow or dense.
spiringempress's review against another edition
4.0
This was the perfect non-fiction read. Jager blended the historical account with thoughtful interpretation and opinion that added to the story and made it understanable to a modern audience. It also added wonderfully to the narrative established in the film and provided additional insight into the characters and their motives. It's only regretful that Marguerite remains such a mystery as her perspective and thoughts would truly give a final say on Carrouges and Le Gris.
bubbajones1221's review against another edition
5.0
Although off to a slow start, this is a riveting piece of historical non-fiction. Fascinating to the smallest detail, and ending with "God's Justice", I highly recommend to those interested in the genre. Eric Jager brings carefully researched material to life with this account of the last judicial duel in France.
I had Eric Jager as my medieval studies professor in college, and I heard there was going to be a movie based off his book so I decided to give it a read. Would recommend!
I had Eric Jager as my medieval studies professor in college, and I heard there was going to be a movie based off his book so I decided to give it a read. Would recommend!
melpomenestears's review against another edition
5.0
I genuinely thought this was history fan fiction until I did further research. What a fascinating read showcasing life in Medieval France; and a mysterious crime that has one at the edge of their seat! I could not put this book down! It was so well written, unlike any history book I have read!
horsefly's review against another edition
5.0
A very engrossing and readable account of a subject that could have been very dry.