First published 2008
In 1172, Henry II rules a vast empire stretching from England to the Pyrenees, but his greatest threat comes from within his own family. His three eldest sons turn against him, allying with King Louis of France in a conspiracy that threatens to destroy everything Henry has built. Eleanor of Aquitaine, Henry's brilliant and formidable queen, makes the devastating choice to join the plot against her own husband. What began as a marriage forged by passion and political ambition now crumbles into bitter warfare. The rebellion fractures the royal family and sends shockwaves across medieval Europe. As Henry faces enemies on all sides, he must confront the woman he once loved above all others, now his most dangerous adversary. Their personal war becomes a struggle for the future of the Plantagenet dynasty and the fate of Christendom itself.
Genres: historical-fiction, political-thriller, family-drama, historical-drama
Vibes: intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, family-drama
Setting: England, Pyrenees, Christendom
Period: 1172
736 pages · Hardcover · G.P. Putnam's Sons
Content warnings: violence