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A review by lucysmith13
Madame Serpent by Jean Plaidy
4.0
The first in the Catherine de Medici series by Jean Plaidy, Madame Serpent introduces us to the infamous Queen of France, and charts her journey from the daughter of the influential Medicis of Florence to mother of the Kings of France.
Catherine de Medici is both well known and unknown - heard of by many but her life understood less so - and Plaidy's novel gives us an insight into what she went through, and may offer explanations as to why she was so ruthless in her later years. Plaidy is able to present the stages in Catherine's life in a fascinating and engaging way, contrasting her early years in Italy with the atmosphere of the French court and the pain of marriage to an uninterested husband. Told from multiple points of view (mainly Catherine and Henry), at times you do actually feel sorry for Catherine, as she deals with multiple trials and slights. Yet gradually over time, the changes in her personality and attitudes become evident, as she transforms into a formidable political power. Excellent writing from Plaidy and a brilliant insight into one of the most famous women in history.
Catherine de Medici is both well known and unknown - heard of by many but her life understood less so - and Plaidy's novel gives us an insight into what she went through, and may offer explanations as to why she was so ruthless in her later years. Plaidy is able to present the stages in Catherine's life in a fascinating and engaging way, contrasting her early years in Italy with the atmosphere of the French court and the pain of marriage to an uninterested husband. Told from multiple points of view (mainly Catherine and Henry), at times you do actually feel sorry for Catherine, as she deals with multiple trials and slights. Yet gradually over time, the changes in her personality and attitudes become evident, as she transforms into a formidable political power. Excellent writing from Plaidy and a brilliant insight into one of the most famous women in history.