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A review by gittav
Madame Serpent by Jean Plaidy
2.0
Very quick read with uncomplicated language and plot. Entertaining for it's romantic history fiction qualities but not meant to be a serious narrative that stays close to fact. This book lacks its exploration of the relationship Catherine de' Medici had with her husband by focussing solely on the "woe is me" romantic aspect and never addresses the political or social aspects of her marriage.
The internal dialogue of Catherine's throughout the book is indulgent, downright pathetic and based on sheer speculation. Decent enough to read in between Christmas dinners, cooking and other engagements as it was neither thought-provoking nor educational.
So much more could've been done with the complexity of the historic events of the king having a mistress for the entire duration of his marriage. Perhaps it's due to the period this was written in - 1950s - but so much more could've been explored. The passivity of Catherine de' Medici made for the ease of reading this. Not much happens, not much is said. Shame as the dynamic could've made for such a more vibrant piece of historic fiction.
Will not be recommending this to anyone. 2 stars as it at least stayed within the realm of factual events, appropriate language and mannerisms.
Feel free to recommend if someone knows of a good piece of fiction/non-fiction regarding this unusual marriage.
The internal dialogue of Catherine's throughout the book is indulgent, downright pathetic and based on sheer speculation. Decent enough to read in between Christmas dinners, cooking and other engagements as it was neither thought-provoking nor educational.
So much more could've been done with the complexity of the historic events of the king having a mistress for the entire duration of his marriage. Perhaps it's due to the period this was written in - 1950s - but so much more could've been explored. The passivity of Catherine de' Medici made for the ease of reading this. Not much happens, not much is said. Shame as the dynamic could've made for such a more vibrant piece of historic fiction.
Will not be recommending this to anyone. 2 stars as it at least stayed within the realm of factual events, appropriate language and mannerisms.
Feel free to recommend if someone knows of a good piece of fiction/non-fiction regarding this unusual marriage.