Review: The Red Queen

November 12, 2011

Summary (from Goodreads): The second book in Philippa’s new trilogy, The Cousins War, brings to life the story of Margaret Beaufort, a shadowy and mysterious character in the first book of the series – The White Queen – but who now takes centre stage in the bitter struggle of The War of the Roses. The Red Queen tells the story of the child-bride of Edmund Tudor, who, although widowed in her early teens, uses her determination of character and wily plotting to infiltrate the house of York under the guise of loyal friend and servant, undermine the support for Richard III and ultimately ensure that her only son, Henry Tudor, triumphs as King of England. Through collaboration with the dowager Queen Elizabeth Woodville, Margaret agrees a betrothal between Henry and Elizabeth’s daughter, thereby uniting the families and resolving the Cousins War once and for all by founding of the Tudor dynasty.

My Thoughts: I am really struggling with this review, because Margaret is a very difficult character to like. When I read The White Queen, I found Elizabeth Woodville sympathetic. While there were times I questioned her actions, motivations, and/or thoughts, overall I thought she was someone to root for. I guess I expected a similar experience with this one, but didn’t get it.

We start with Margaret as a young child in her home, and we’re made to feel sorry for her. She’s surrounded by uncaring adults, and her mother is awful. Absolutely awful. And to be married off at the age of 12 (if I’m remembering correctly) and then a mother by 14 – I can only imagine. Horrible, especially when it’s made known that her mother told her midwives that if it’s a difficult labor they are to place greater importance on the baby. Knowing all of this, it’s no wonder Margaret became the way she is – cold, cruel, calculating, and just a royal bitch. (Excuse the term, but nothing weaker will suffice in this case!) The clincher for my STRONG dislike of her is her attitude. She considers herself holy and without sin. As a Christian, this just makes me cringe – and angry. The things she plots and does all in the name of God … wow.

I know this is historical fiction, and there is fact, fiction, and speculation mixed together. I have no idea just what percentage of each is in the book, but just the thought that this character is based on a real person … man! The more I read about this time period in British history, the happier I am that I was NOT born in that era. (Whereas I once thought living in the time of castles, kings, knights, etc. would have been pretty cool.)

I should add that Margaret is awful enough that I struggled to finish this book. As is generally the case with Philippa Gregory’s work, The Red Queen is very well-written and actually an interesting story. I just found myself not wanting to be inside Margaret’s head anymore! I considered a higher rating, but just can’t because she is that unlikable.

In case it isn’t clear, this is the second book in Philippa Gregory’s The Cousins’ War series. When I first started reading, I thought it was something anyone could pick up and read these books in any order. While that still might maybe be the case, I think one would have better understanding of many of the events in this book if they start with The White Queen.

Would I recommend this? Only if you read and liked The White Queen and want to continue the series. I am looking forward to reading The Lady of the Rivers (Book 3) very soon.

Source: I purchased for my own enjoyment.

Read It: Get your own copy HERE. (This is a Book Depository link, and purchase through this link will result in my receiving a small commission at no cost to you. Your support is appreciated!)

Challenges: Counts for the 100 Books in a Year Reading Challenge and the 2nds Challenge (second in a series AND second book I read by Philippa Gregory).

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FTC Disclosure: All items reviewed were either obtained by me for my own enjoyment or sent (from the author, publisher, publicist, via tour sites, etc.) in exchange for an honest review. I receive no monetary compensation for my posts. All opinions expressed are my own.

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