A review by booktalkwithkarla
The Queen's Vow: A Novel of Isabella of Castile by C.W. Gortner

adventurous informative medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

The Queen’s Vow was recommended to me by two friends because of its setting in Spain. The three of us are traveling there soon. I picked it up because of their recommendation and my fascination with Spain, which captured my heart a few years ago. This is a story about Queen Isabella and her life and reign. 

C.W. Gortner penned a story rich in detail, history, and narrative drive. His research and faithfulness to the humanity of these historical figures made the novel compelling and interesting. It was also very entertaining and engaging.

I really enjoyed reading this book. The map and family tree were super helpful in anchoring me to the past, freeing me to be carried along by the story and writing. I am even more excited for my trip to Spain and seeing some of the places with historical eyes. I appreciated the nuance and depth Gortner added to Isabel beyond bullet points of her misdeeds or accomplishments. This is a rich novel and well worth reading and I’ll be reading his other novels set in Spain.