2.5 starsEpitaph for Three Women turned out to be far less about these three women than I was led to believe by the book's description. Broken into three parts titled Katherine of Valois, Joan of Arc, and Eleanor of Gloucester, only Joan, or Jeannette rather, has an actual story that follows her path in life. The other two are background players to the politics going on at the time, especially those concerning the Dukes of Bedford and Gloucester and England's fight for France. Whenever Katherine enters the picture, it's all light, airy, and extremely romanticized, especially in regards to Owen Tudor. For most of the book they live a totally idyllic life that doesn't feel realistic in the least. Eleanor Cobham is portrayed as a scheming, crown-hungry social climber who proves far too trusting of witches and soothsayers. Isabeau of Bavaria fares even worse and I got tired of the constant references to how whorish she was. Since this was written, historians have looked into the accuracy of her reputation and dismissed certain facets as untrue. Still, this isn't a completely bad book. Putting aside Katherine's storyline where she only made cameo appearances anyway, I enjoyed the first part the most. Not knowing much about this period, the history was fascinating. The second featuring Jeannette was my least favorite, but I lay full blame at my feet because I have just never cared for Joan of Arc's story, so found most of this part boring. While there was some interesting information in the book, I didn't love the book but it's an easy introduction to this particular time.For more information on Eleanor Cobham, I recommend Susan Higginbotham's guest post at Madame Guillotine.Originally Reviewed: October 17, 2012Received: Local Library
"Epitaph for Three Women" by Jean Plaidy are prophecies of doom fulfilled, villains betray and triumph over good amid constant conspiracies for power centered around the babe Henry VI b 1421, new King. Sad fates are facts of history, not spoilers. Katherine de Valoise, widowed from England's Henry V at age 21, feels like an outsider, lighter of heart after talking with his Welsh squire Owen Tudor. Part II, peasant Jeanette d'Arc sees visions of virgin Saints and hears their voices calling her to ensure the crowning of France's King Charles VII at Rheims, burned by the English. Part III ambitious busty Eleanore goes from mistress to Duchess of Gloucester, but consults witches to get with child and promote king's uncle Duke to the ultimate power. The author's skill is believable words that change history from memorized names and dates to suffering humanity with common motivations. I disbelieve all wished for simpler lives. Other talents may recreate atmospheres of place and time, or vigorous action. Like a celebrity magazine, the featured individuals attract us by name and postion.
