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Young Queens
Catherine de' Medici, Elisabeth de Valois and Mary, Queen of Scots lived together at the French court for many years - years that bound them to one another through blood and marriage, alliance and friendship, love and filial piety. When they scattered to different kingdoms, they would learn that to rule was to wage a constant war against the deeply entrenched misogyny of the sixteenth century. A crown could exalt a young woman. Equally, it could destroy her.
Young Queens masterfully weaves the personal stories of these three queens into one, revealing their hopes, dreams, desires and regrets at a time when even the most powerful women lived at the mercy of the state.
Young Queens masterfully weaves the personal stories of these three queens into one, revealing their hopes, dreams, desires and regrets at a time when even the most powerful women lived at the mercy of the state.
491 pages, Hardcover
First published May 11, 2023
297 people are currently reading
10509 people want to read
About the author
Leah Redmond Chang
1 book40 followersI love talking with readers - find me now on Skolay: https://www.skolay.com/writers/leahre...
Leah Redmond Chang writes biography and narrative non-fiction, with a focus on women’s history. She was trained as a literature scholar, and her books draw on her extensive research in the archives and in rare book libraries. Before turning to writing full time, Leah was a tenured professor of French Literature and Culture at The George Washington University in Washington, DC. She has also been an Honorary Senior Research Associate at University College London.
Leah’s most recent book, Young Queens: Three Renaissance Women and the Price of Power (Bloomsbury; Farrar, Straus and Giroux) has been named among the ‘Best Books of 2023’ by The New Yorker and ‘Best Biographies of 2023’ by BookRiot. Young Queens was longlisted for the inaugural Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction and was a finalist for The Los Angeles Times Book Prize (Biography).
Leah lives with her husband and three children in Washington, DC, and spends as much time as possible in London, her favorite city.
Leah Redmond Chang writes biography and narrative non-fiction, with a focus on women’s history. She was trained as a literature scholar, and her books draw on her extensive research in the archives and in rare book libraries. Before turning to writing full time, Leah was a tenured professor of French Literature and Culture at The George Washington University in Washington, DC. She has also been an Honorary Senior Research Associate at University College London.
Leah’s most recent book, Young Queens: Three Renaissance Women and the Price of Power (Bloomsbury; Farrar, Straus and Giroux) has been named among the ‘Best Books of 2023’ by The New Yorker and ‘Best Biographies of 2023’ by BookRiot. Young Queens was longlisted for the inaugural Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction and was a finalist for The Los Angeles Times Book Prize (Biography).
Leah lives with her husband and three children in Washington, DC, and spends as much time as possible in London, her favorite city.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 332 reviews
June 7, 2023
Non-fiction that really kept my interested throughout. Excellent research, with historical details concerning not just the private lives of the three queens but also the political and social events of the period. Well written and in a way accessible to an average reader interested to expand their knowledge.
Not my first read on the lives of Catherine de Medici, Mary Stuart and Elisabeth de Valois, however, I learnt a lot, especially about Catherine's daughter. Highly recommended.
*A big thank-you to Leah Redmond Chang, Bloomsbury Publishing, and NetGalley for arc in exchange for my honest review.*
Not my first read on the lives of Catherine de Medici, Mary Stuart and Elisabeth de Valois, however, I learnt a lot, especially about Catherine's daughter. Highly recommended.
*A big thank-you to Leah Redmond Chang, Bloomsbury Publishing, and NetGalley for arc in exchange for my honest review.*
February 6, 2023
I like the idea of treating three Renaissance queens together but I think this book will work best for readers who are unfamiliar with them - so much has been already written about Mary Queen of Scots and Catherine de Medici (my favourites are Catherine de Medici: Renaissance Queen of France, My Heart Is My Own: The Life of Mary Queen of Scots) that it's questionable how another book can freshen their stories. The chapters on Catherine's young life were interesting but then we, inevitably, have to go back to the lives of Francis I and Henry II as context for her own life as queen, and those of her sons to contextualise her role as 'Queen Mother'.
There are some odd choices in the retelling of Mary's life: I expected a more sympathetic and detailed focus on her capture/kidnap by Bothwell, for example, but it's over in a flash despite there being a lot of source material here.
Elizabeth de Valois has a less prominent role so it's good to see her here. I really, though, wanted more unification and analysis of these royal women's lives as women: for example, imagining Catherine's feelings on her marriage night to an effective stranger is done with sensitivity and is the sort of stuff I wanted this book to open up but there's far less of it than I expected.
In the end this is yet another version of early sixteenth century royal history in Europe - there is a slight change of angle that veers towards the women but overall this is less radical or new or illuminating that I'd have liked, and treats a lot of old ground including the doings of their kings in a snappy way. Good, then, as an introduction to these women who were related and linked via the French court.
Thanks to Bloomsbury for an ARC via NetGalley
There are some odd choices in the retelling of Mary's life: I expected a more sympathetic and detailed focus on her capture/kidnap by Bothwell, for example, but it's over in a flash despite there being a lot of source material here.
Elizabeth de Valois has a less prominent role so it's good to see her here. I really, though, wanted more unification and analysis of these royal women's lives as women: for example, imagining Catherine's feelings on her marriage night to an effective stranger is done with sensitivity and is the sort of stuff I wanted this book to open up but there's far less of it than I expected.
In the end this is yet another version of early sixteenth century royal history in Europe - there is a slight change of angle that veers towards the women but overall this is less radical or new or illuminating that I'd have liked, and treats a lot of old ground including the doings of their kings in a snappy way. Good, then, as an introduction to these women who were related and linked via the French court.
Thanks to Bloomsbury for an ARC via NetGalley
August 7, 2023
'You cannot flee or avoid your destiny'.
One court produced three queen consorts, one sovereign queen, and one queen mother during the Renaissance period in Europe. These three queens fought for their position, their religion, respect, and authority. Catherine de Medici, her daughter Elisabeth de Valois and her daughter-in-law Mary Stuart all lived together in the French court before Elisabeth married Philip II, King of Spain and Mary Stuart returned to her sovereign land, Scotland. For each, though their fates all differed, the way in which they wielded their power and waded through the political and religious quagmire was shared. Catherine could be seen as the 'puppet master' but she's also shown to be desperate to ensure both her and her family's position. Elisabeth was sent to be a peace-maker between France and Spain but, in spite of having her marriage arranged for political gain, she seemed to not only eventually find a backbone, she also ingratiated herself with her new subjects. Mary Stuart was raised in the French court to be the future queen consort. Instead, at 18 years old, she was a barren widow who needed to go back to her kingdom of Scotland. Though their gender already counted against them, it in no way made them a less integral part of these royal dynasties.
Leah Redmond Chang has woven together the fabric of these women's lives, using diverse primary and secondary sources, to deliver a cohesive and readable book that gives insight into not only how they were raised, but how, in turn, that psyche may have affected their decision-making and rule. Any speculation by Chang is well qualified for validity. 'Young Queens' is an illuminating, accessible, insight into these women of the Renaissance and the price they paid for the power they inherited. I highly recommend it to history aficionados.
One court produced three queen consorts, one sovereign queen, and one queen mother during the Renaissance period in Europe. These three queens fought for their position, their religion, respect, and authority. Catherine de Medici, her daughter Elisabeth de Valois and her daughter-in-law Mary Stuart all lived together in the French court before Elisabeth married Philip II, King of Spain and Mary Stuart returned to her sovereign land, Scotland. For each, though their fates all differed, the way in which they wielded their power and waded through the political and religious quagmire was shared. Catherine could be seen as the 'puppet master' but she's also shown to be desperate to ensure both her and her family's position. Elisabeth was sent to be a peace-maker between France and Spain but, in spite of having her marriage arranged for political gain, she seemed to not only eventually find a backbone, she also ingratiated herself with her new subjects. Mary Stuart was raised in the French court to be the future queen consort. Instead, at 18 years old, she was a barren widow who needed to go back to her kingdom of Scotland. Though their gender already counted against them, it in no way made them a less integral part of these royal dynasties.
Leah Redmond Chang has woven together the fabric of these women's lives, using diverse primary and secondary sources, to deliver a cohesive and readable book that gives insight into not only how they were raised, but how, in turn, that psyche may have affected their decision-making and rule. Any speculation by Chang is well qualified for validity. 'Young Queens' is an illuminating, accessible, insight into these women of the Renaissance and the price they paid for the power they inherited. I highly recommend it to history aficionados.
October 7, 2025
Most of my knowledge about Mary, Queen of Scots, and her mother in law, Catherine de’ Medici, come from the terribly inaccurate REIGN. You may remember Kenna, a walking Free People ad.
So while Mary and Catherine's stories weren't new to me, I was quite surprised by Elisabeth de Valois's existence. Her story should've interested me the most, as it was newest to me, but it didn't. I thought Mary's would, but as I am marginally familiar with her at this point, it got repetitive.
I didn't think I would fall so deeply into Catherine's story, but I may seek to know more about her. A rich Italian commoner, she went on to become queen consort of France, and the mother of kings and queens besides.
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Farrar, Straus and Giroux
🎧 Thank you to NetGalley and Recorded Books
So while Mary and Catherine's stories weren't new to me, I was quite surprised by Elisabeth de Valois's existence. Her story should've interested me the most, as it was newest to me, but it didn't. I thought Mary's would, but as I am marginally familiar with her at this point, it got repetitive.
I didn't think I would fall so deeply into Catherine's story, but I may seek to know more about her. A rich Italian commoner, she went on to become queen consort of France, and the mother of kings and queens besides.
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Farrar, Straus and Giroux
🎧 Thank you to NetGalley and Recorded Books
October 17, 2023
Unless you’re living under a rock; you will have noticed the uptick in the history text sub-genre comprising of the study/comparison of key figures in relation to one another (usually be that of queens of royal women) both socially and politically. Typically, these works tend to result in mini-biographies or a broad history spectrum versus truly providing coverage of the webbed silk strings. Leah Redmond Chang joins this history trend with a study of the formidable and glorious Catherine de Medici, her daughter Elisabeth de Valois and Catherine’s one time daughter-in-law, Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots. Each of these three women were Queens in their own right, holding immense power; but each also had to ‘give up’ certain aspects of themselves to retain it. Chang explores their connections in, “Young Queens: Three Renaissance Women and the Price of Power”.
Chang instantaneously opens “Young Queens” with a compelling and completely absorbing narrative that envelops the reader with an illustrative, visual tapestry that is maintained throughout transporting back in time. This isn’t a stylistic formula used simply to fill the page with fluff, however, as “Young Queens” is quite scholarly/academic and rich with research: it is the dictionary definition of ‘page turner’! Readers are enticed to keep reading and yet will be encouraged to take breaks in order to preserve “Young Queens”. Chang doesn’t fall victim to the typical flaw of penning mini-biographies and is extremely successful at emphasizing each figure but in relation to the broader scenes and interactions even on psychological and philosophical spheres. “Young Queens” is simply incredible.
“Young Queens” unearths mountains of information that even expert readers of the topic will find riveting and never-before-discussed. These new facts and nuances surrounding Catherine, Elisabeth and Mary almost reveal new women entirely and allow readers to view them in fresh, newborn ways. As a bonus, all of Chang’s groundbreaking material is credible and based on sourced material. Fear not that this makes “Young Queens” overwhelming as it is much easier to understand and ‘stickier’ than most other comparable works while also being entertaining. “Young Queens” is filled with “a-ha!” moments, clearly untangling any confusions readers held prior to reading the text.
Due to the format exploring Catherine, Elisabeth and Mary in ‘real time’ and their corresponding intricacies; there are occasional back-and-forth jumps in chronology within “Young Queens”. Initially, this is slightly difficult to grasp but then it becomes second nature and of no consequence.
Chang perfectly infuses “Young Queens” with full quotes and document source material that flows into the narrative and helps with ‘the story’, so to speak. Traditionally, these additions would feel overly-contrived or inserted but that is not the case with “Young Queens”. There is also an absence of the usual biases, snark, personal opinions and speculative statement that can litter similar history texts with Chang remaining observant and objective but not boring.
The analysis of highly-publicized events within the lives of Catherine, Elisabeth and Mary are remarkably fresh in their perspectives and unlike the usual coverage in that readers will explore uncharted interpretations and revamp their thinking. “Young Queens” aids in understanding history in a marked way.
There are a few – very few- moments when Chang’s views are questionable such as when she either barely addresses a topic or completely goes against the commonly agreed upon conclusions. This is noticeable, for instance, in the case of the “Casket Letters” (Mary, Queen of Scots) which most historians/writers believe are forged at best or tampered with, at least; but Change implies as real. Even so, Chang is entitled to her opinions/beliefs and the reader can make his/her own call based on personal research.
The conclusion of “Young Queens” rounds up with Catherine de Medici (fittingly, as she was the last to suffer death) but also completes the textual circle as she was also the opener of “Young Queens”. This finality, and equally the Epilogue, are emotionally-charged, memorable and genuinely emphasize the “Price of Power” portion of the book’s subtitle expounding on what the three women went through both solo and together in order to gain and retain power. “Young Queens” isn’t just a historical study but also a feminist discourse underneath it all: a double-edged sword to the finest gleam.
“Young Queens” even excels with its section of color photo plates that includes some rare images and is presented on black background pages which is stunningly enchanting and has never been done in a history text. Such small details amp “Young Queens” even higher. The Notes are annotated and the list of primary sources is credibly long versus solely depending on secondary material. Chang includes an afterword that addresses the latest groundbreaking history of 2023 uncovering letters written by Mary, Queen of Scots during her English captivity that are currently being decoded and the discovery of a letter that she “letterlocked” (folded so intricately, that if the seal is broken by an intercepted spy; the recipient would be immediately aware of the invasion).
There is no shortage of books focusing on queens and with the growth of the latest trend of joint-biographies; but “Young Queens” certainly stands out. There is something very magical about “Young Queens” that can’t accurately be described. Chang’s writing is epic but subtly epic in an organic way with exemplary pacing and a lovely blend of narrative and history. Chang doesn’t fall victim to pretending to discuss the interplay of the figures while merely offering mini-biographies but instead truly meets her intended aim while also investigating the price of power. The text is illustrative and riveting with its storytelling but also with its new looks at history (and new information).
“Young Queens” is a marvelous work and is recommended for all readers interested in Catherine de Medici, Elisabeth de Valois, Mary, Queen of Scots, French history, Spanish history and Scottish (and English) history. “Young Queens” is a must read and I am hopeful Chang will gift us with another book in the future!
Chang instantaneously opens “Young Queens” with a compelling and completely absorbing narrative that envelops the reader with an illustrative, visual tapestry that is maintained throughout transporting back in time. This isn’t a stylistic formula used simply to fill the page with fluff, however, as “Young Queens” is quite scholarly/academic and rich with research: it is the dictionary definition of ‘page turner’! Readers are enticed to keep reading and yet will be encouraged to take breaks in order to preserve “Young Queens”. Chang doesn’t fall victim to the typical flaw of penning mini-biographies and is extremely successful at emphasizing each figure but in relation to the broader scenes and interactions even on psychological and philosophical spheres. “Young Queens” is simply incredible.
“Young Queens” unearths mountains of information that even expert readers of the topic will find riveting and never-before-discussed. These new facts and nuances surrounding Catherine, Elisabeth and Mary almost reveal new women entirely and allow readers to view them in fresh, newborn ways. As a bonus, all of Chang’s groundbreaking material is credible and based on sourced material. Fear not that this makes “Young Queens” overwhelming as it is much easier to understand and ‘stickier’ than most other comparable works while also being entertaining. “Young Queens” is filled with “a-ha!” moments, clearly untangling any confusions readers held prior to reading the text.
Due to the format exploring Catherine, Elisabeth and Mary in ‘real time’ and their corresponding intricacies; there are occasional back-and-forth jumps in chronology within “Young Queens”. Initially, this is slightly difficult to grasp but then it becomes second nature and of no consequence.
Chang perfectly infuses “Young Queens” with full quotes and document source material that flows into the narrative and helps with ‘the story’, so to speak. Traditionally, these additions would feel overly-contrived or inserted but that is not the case with “Young Queens”. There is also an absence of the usual biases, snark, personal opinions and speculative statement that can litter similar history texts with Chang remaining observant and objective but not boring.
The analysis of highly-publicized events within the lives of Catherine, Elisabeth and Mary are remarkably fresh in their perspectives and unlike the usual coverage in that readers will explore uncharted interpretations and revamp their thinking. “Young Queens” aids in understanding history in a marked way.
There are a few – very few- moments when Chang’s views are questionable such as when she either barely addresses a topic or completely goes against the commonly agreed upon conclusions. This is noticeable, for instance, in the case of the “Casket Letters” (Mary, Queen of Scots) which most historians/writers believe are forged at best or tampered with, at least; but Change implies as real. Even so, Chang is entitled to her opinions/beliefs and the reader can make his/her own call based on personal research.
The conclusion of “Young Queens” rounds up with Catherine de Medici (fittingly, as she was the last to suffer death) but also completes the textual circle as she was also the opener of “Young Queens”. This finality, and equally the Epilogue, are emotionally-charged, memorable and genuinely emphasize the “Price of Power” portion of the book’s subtitle expounding on what the three women went through both solo and together in order to gain and retain power. “Young Queens” isn’t just a historical study but also a feminist discourse underneath it all: a double-edged sword to the finest gleam.
“Young Queens” even excels with its section of color photo plates that includes some rare images and is presented on black background pages which is stunningly enchanting and has never been done in a history text. Such small details amp “Young Queens” even higher. The Notes are annotated and the list of primary sources is credibly long versus solely depending on secondary material. Chang includes an afterword that addresses the latest groundbreaking history of 2023 uncovering letters written by Mary, Queen of Scots during her English captivity that are currently being decoded and the discovery of a letter that she “letterlocked” (folded so intricately, that if the seal is broken by an intercepted spy; the recipient would be immediately aware of the invasion).
There is no shortage of books focusing on queens and with the growth of the latest trend of joint-biographies; but “Young Queens” certainly stands out. There is something very magical about “Young Queens” that can’t accurately be described. Chang’s writing is epic but subtly epic in an organic way with exemplary pacing and a lovely blend of narrative and history. Chang doesn’t fall victim to pretending to discuss the interplay of the figures while merely offering mini-biographies but instead truly meets her intended aim while also investigating the price of power. The text is illustrative and riveting with its storytelling but also with its new looks at history (and new information).
“Young Queens” is a marvelous work and is recommended for all readers interested in Catherine de Medici, Elisabeth de Valois, Mary, Queen of Scots, French history, Spanish history and Scottish (and English) history. “Young Queens” is a must read and I am hopeful Chang will gift us with another book in the future!
September 27, 2023
An excellent read. The three renaissance women referred to in the title are Catherine de Medici, her daughter Elisabeth de Valois and daughter-in-law Mary Queen of Scots. The book follows their lives, from childhood to marriage and death. A fair bit of history of France, Spain, Scotland and England as well and the religious wars. There’s a lot of depth but reads very easily. I really enjoyed it.
October 5, 2024
Portions of Young Queens are quite good. These sections detail the policies, alliances, and influences of these leading women, as well as important events in their personal lives. Unfortunately, for every interesting page, the author seems to include two that focus on trivial minutiae such as childhood pastimes and penmanship styles. (Does anyone really care whether Mary, Queen of Scots preferred drawing or sewing when a girl?) My 3rd grade teacher once told me that I should not include insignificant details in my book reports; "I don't need to know what John Cabot ate for breakfast" were her exact words. It is a shame that no one seems to have shared this sage advice with Ms. Chang.
April 14, 2024
All the stars and more! Leah Redmond Chang is amazing!
September 15, 2023
Format: audiobook ~ Narrator: Leah Redmond Chang
Content: 4.5 stars ~ Narration: 5 stars
Complete audiobook review
Queen consort, sovereign queen, and queen mother. This (audio)book focuses on the three queens and their younger years.
Catherine de Medici, Elisabeth de Valois, and Mary Queen of Scots are three remarkable women from the Renaissance era. Catherine de Medici, a commoner born into the Medici family of Florence, would rise to become the Queen of France. Elisabeth de Valois was her daughter and wife of Philip II of Spain. Mary Queen of Scots was crowned a queen in her infancy. She was exiled, imprisoned, and ultimately executed.
Young Queens is a very intriguing book and doesn’t feel like non-fiction. Although it’s pretty long, it’s interesting until the end.
The narration is excellent.
Thanks to Recorded Books for the advance copy and this opportunity! This is a voluntary review and all opinions are my own.
Content: 4.5 stars ~ Narration: 5 stars
Complete audiobook review
Queen consort, sovereign queen, and queen mother. This (audio)book focuses on the three queens and their younger years.
Catherine de Medici, Elisabeth de Valois, and Mary Queen of Scots are three remarkable women from the Renaissance era. Catherine de Medici, a commoner born into the Medici family of Florence, would rise to become the Queen of France. Elisabeth de Valois was her daughter and wife of Philip II of Spain. Mary Queen of Scots was crowned a queen in her infancy. She was exiled, imprisoned, and ultimately executed.
Young Queens is a very intriguing book and doesn’t feel like non-fiction. Although it’s pretty long, it’s interesting until the end.
The narration is excellent.
Thanks to Recorded Books for the advance copy and this opportunity! This is a voluntary review and all opinions are my own.
August 12, 2023
I learned so much from this and was really impressed with the amount of information.Even some biographies I've read pertaining to these women couldn't have competed with how well thought out,written and researched this was.Also,the author definitely peaked my interest in Elizabeth de Valois and I will most likely be looking for more on her life.Highly recommend
Much thanks to Netgalley for sending me a copy in exchange for my honest review
Much thanks to Netgalley for sending me a copy in exchange for my honest review
July 9, 2023
A great history book is one that avoids the easy tropes and cliches of its character. When you start Leah Redmond Chang's Young Queens, the prologue seems to set up a book about 3 women who would do marvelous things in an imperfect world. I must admit, I was initially worried the narrative would paper over the shortcomings of its subjects and not dive too deeply into their flaws and what made the humans with immense power. I now apologize for jumping to my wildly inaccurate prediction.
Chang tells the story of Catherine de' Medici, her daughter Elisabeth de Valois, and Mary Queen of Scots who was also related because of course they were all related back then. It should be noted that Chang spends the vast majority of the book on the three queens on their younger years. Mary's long imprisonment is barely touched upon and Catherine's actions around the St. Bartholomew's Day massacre are almost footnotes. However, I found this to be one of the strength's of the book. Chang is able to spend more time on what most books skip over in the lives of these queens. Along the way, Chang does not shy from praising and criticizing each woman. Catherine alone could easily be a pure sociopath or master politician depending on how you want to slant her. Chang also touches upon how being women affected their lives and their choices, but I also felt Chang just as clearly showed that their religion and other choices could have just as strong an effect on them. More than anything, Chang shows that they were people with power and they had to wield it in a way to keep that power, otherwise it didn't matter who they were.
It is a great book and anyone with a love of history should have it on their "must read" list.
(This book was provided as an advance copy by Netgalley and Farrar, Straus and Giroux.)
Chang tells the story of Catherine de' Medici, her daughter Elisabeth de Valois, and Mary Queen of Scots who was also related because of course they were all related back then. It should be noted that Chang spends the vast majority of the book on the three queens on their younger years. Mary's long imprisonment is barely touched upon and Catherine's actions around the St. Bartholomew's Day massacre are almost footnotes. However, I found this to be one of the strength's of the book. Chang is able to spend more time on what most books skip over in the lives of these queens. Along the way, Chang does not shy from praising and criticizing each woman. Catherine alone could easily be a pure sociopath or master politician depending on how you want to slant her. Chang also touches upon how being women affected their lives and their choices, but I also felt Chang just as clearly showed that their religion and other choices could have just as strong an effect on them. More than anything, Chang shows that they were people with power and they had to wield it in a way to keep that power, otherwise it didn't matter who they were.
It is a great book and anyone with a love of history should have it on their "must read" list.
(This book was provided as an advance copy by Netgalley and Farrar, Straus and Giroux.)
August 15, 2023
Young Queens by Leah Redmond Chang is a fascinating and beautifully braided story of the lives of three queens “as complex and flawed human beings, their potential co-existing alongside their faults and frailties.”
“Young Queens follows the interlaced lives of Catherine, Elisabeth and Mary over the course of two decades. Telling their stories as one reveals patterns about women and power that we may miss or discount when assessing any of them in isolation.”
I chose this book as my most recent read due to my interest in verifying the accuracy of some of my favorite TV series and films like Reign (2013–2017), Mary Queen of Scots (2018), and The Serpent Queen (2022). After reading Young Queens, all of these works will require a rewatch.
This book is so fascinating and fun (if you're a history nerd like me)! I found it every bit as delightful as the elaborate films and series! It’s not easy to write nonfiction that includes well chosen details and paints such a rich picture of history but is also thoroughly entertaining with gorgeous prose and flow. This book, a glass of wine, and a hammock in my backyard made for the perfect summer reading experience.
Whatever aspect of these queens lives is of most intrigue and interest for you personally, it’s in this book. From the perils of travel via carriage to new lands, the complicated issue of trust amongst royals, the gross ignorance of the times of the human body and its functions, the author deftly sorts through details large and small and presents a captivating look at these brave and bold young queens from all angles.
I found it interesting how mental health wasn’t even considered in the 1500s. The behaviors and emotional issues that would have been the result of oppressive patriarchy and the trauma of bodies and lives being currency with very little daily autonomy would be so great, but were often written off as laziness, bad habits, or a symptoms of a physical ailment.
One example of this is an observation of Elizabeth, at age 14, after her marriage to the 34 year old King Phillip, “There were other signs of disorder, hints that Elisabeth’s daily habits were less than healthful. Sometimes Catherine found Elisabeth self-indulgent, ready to ‘take to her bed as soon as she felt the least bit ill’. She neglected to exercise. She had a particular fondness for meat and a bad habit of snacking too much, which Catherine believed brought on the dreaded vomiting. Others in Elisabeth’s circle also noticed these bad habits.”
With limited tools and knowledge, people relied heavily on folk medicine and religion for support. “In the sixteenth century, people believed in the four humours, the medical doctrine preaching that the health of a person depended on the proper balance of four liquids coursing through the body: blood, phlegm, yellow bile and black bile. A mild predominance of any one liquid determined temperament. A person dominated by blood, for example, might be ‘sanguine’ or cheerful. A person tending towards bile might anger easily. A more severe disequilibrium among the humours, however, was the basis of disease.”
What a trip reading Young Queens! I am in awe of the author. I imagined her in libraries, pouring over letters and texts, fully immersed into the lives of these women. This is truly one of my favorite nonfiction reads in a long time. I would definitely recommend to fans of historical nonfiction, Catherine de' Medici (my favorite), Mary Queens of Scots, and Elizabeth of Valois! My favorite genre is generally fantasy, and this world of queens and kings truly satisfies that craving too.
“Young Queens follows the interlaced lives of Catherine, Elisabeth and Mary over the course of two decades. Telling their stories as one reveals patterns about women and power that we may miss or discount when assessing any of them in isolation.”
I chose this book as my most recent read due to my interest in verifying the accuracy of some of my favorite TV series and films like Reign (2013–2017), Mary Queen of Scots (2018), and The Serpent Queen (2022). After reading Young Queens, all of these works will require a rewatch.
This book is so fascinating and fun (if you're a history nerd like me)! I found it every bit as delightful as the elaborate films and series! It’s not easy to write nonfiction that includes well chosen details and paints such a rich picture of history but is also thoroughly entertaining with gorgeous prose and flow. This book, a glass of wine, and a hammock in my backyard made for the perfect summer reading experience.
Whatever aspect of these queens lives is of most intrigue and interest for you personally, it’s in this book. From the perils of travel via carriage to new lands, the complicated issue of trust amongst royals, the gross ignorance of the times of the human body and its functions, the author deftly sorts through details large and small and presents a captivating look at these brave and bold young queens from all angles.
I found it interesting how mental health wasn’t even considered in the 1500s. The behaviors and emotional issues that would have been the result of oppressive patriarchy and the trauma of bodies and lives being currency with very little daily autonomy would be so great, but were often written off as laziness, bad habits, or a symptoms of a physical ailment.
One example of this is an observation of Elizabeth, at age 14, after her marriage to the 34 year old King Phillip, “There were other signs of disorder, hints that Elisabeth’s daily habits were less than healthful. Sometimes Catherine found Elisabeth self-indulgent, ready to ‘take to her bed as soon as she felt the least bit ill’. She neglected to exercise. She had a particular fondness for meat and a bad habit of snacking too much, which Catherine believed brought on the dreaded vomiting. Others in Elisabeth’s circle also noticed these bad habits.”
With limited tools and knowledge, people relied heavily on folk medicine and religion for support. “In the sixteenth century, people believed in the four humours, the medical doctrine preaching that the health of a person depended on the proper balance of four liquids coursing through the body: blood, phlegm, yellow bile and black bile. A mild predominance of any one liquid determined temperament. A person dominated by blood, for example, might be ‘sanguine’ or cheerful. A person tending towards bile might anger easily. A more severe disequilibrium among the humours, however, was the basis of disease.”
What a trip reading Young Queens! I am in awe of the author. I imagined her in libraries, pouring over letters and texts, fully immersed into the lives of these women. This is truly one of my favorite nonfiction reads in a long time. I would definitely recommend to fans of historical nonfiction, Catherine de' Medici (my favorite), Mary Queens of Scots, and Elizabeth of Valois! My favorite genre is generally fantasy, and this world of queens and kings truly satisfies that craving too.
October 21, 2024
Mary, Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I, Queen of England are two of the most famous female ruling figures in history.
I was aware of the name Catherine dé Medici but didn't know much about her besides her being a member of the Medici family before her marriage and being called the Serpent Queen.
What I definitely didn't know about at all and got to know through this book was that Mary, Queen of Scots spent a period of her life as part of the French royal family, at first thanks to her maternal family enjoying a high place at the French court and later as a wife of Francis II, the eldest son of King Henry II of France and Catherine dé Medici.
Also, the fact that Catherine dé Medici hoped for a possible Anglo-French alliance by encouraging a marriage between her youngest son Francis, Duke of Anjou and Elizabeth I.
Elisabeth de Valois was a name I had no idea about and even though she makes up the trio of queens discussed in this book, I felt she as a figure overall had no huge impact except for being married to King Philip II of Spain and being his most beloved wife.
Mary, already born a queen with a crown and country to rule when the time came; who spent her earlier years in great comfort, splendor and loved by all and was a woman of great beauty and popularity, finds herself later on all alone and betrayed, with no family or friends, desperately trying to hold on to her legacy and crown. Meanwhile, Catherine dé Medici and Elizabeth I (who does make her presence felt in the final chapters) who each after spending a lifetime thwarting machinations against their being, their position and sovereignty end up becoming a powerful figurehead of their respective ruling dynasty.
How the wheel of time and fortune turns!
I listened to this as an audiobook and Olivia Dowd's soothing and clear voice ensured that I did not find it difficult keeping up with the narrative. Infact, I enjoyed it so much that I ended up listening to it twice.
I received an ALC of the book from the publisher RB Media and the author Leah Redmond Chang via NetGalley.
I was aware of the name Catherine dé Medici but didn't know much about her besides her being a member of the Medici family before her marriage and being called the Serpent Queen.
What I definitely didn't know about at all and got to know through this book was that Mary, Queen of Scots spent a period of her life as part of the French royal family, at first thanks to her maternal family enjoying a high place at the French court and later as a wife of Francis II, the eldest son of King Henry II of France and Catherine dé Medici.
Also, the fact that Catherine dé Medici hoped for a possible Anglo-French alliance by encouraging a marriage between her youngest son Francis, Duke of Anjou and Elizabeth I.
Elisabeth de Valois was a name I had no idea about and even though she makes up the trio of queens discussed in this book, I felt she as a figure overall had no huge impact except for being married to King Philip II of Spain and being his most beloved wife.
Mary, already born a queen with a crown and country to rule when the time came; who spent her earlier years in great comfort, splendor and loved by all and was a woman of great beauty and popularity, finds herself later on all alone and betrayed, with no family or friends, desperately trying to hold on to her legacy and crown. Meanwhile, Catherine dé Medici and Elizabeth I (who does make her presence felt in the final chapters) who each after spending a lifetime thwarting machinations against their being, their position and sovereignty end up becoming a powerful figurehead of their respective ruling dynasty.
How the wheel of time and fortune turns!
I listened to this as an audiobook and Olivia Dowd's soothing and clear voice ensured that I did not find it difficult keeping up with the narrative. Infact, I enjoyed it so much that I ended up listening to it twice.
I received an ALC of the book from the publisher RB Media and the author Leah Redmond Chang via NetGalley.
November 24, 2023
3.5 Stars Rounded Down
This is wonderfully researched and detailed.
This is rich with period knowledge and is a good history of this time period and area much more than these specific Queens.
This is an excellent introduction to these subjects more so than an expansion of currently understood knowledge.
This just focuses entirely too much on the men involved and not nearly enough on the women🤷🏾♀️
This is wonderfully researched and detailed.
This is rich with period knowledge and is a good history of this time period and area much more than these specific Queens.
This is an excellent introduction to these subjects more so than an expansion of currently understood knowledge.
This just focuses entirely too much on the men involved and not nearly enough on the women🤷🏾♀️
August 30, 2023
Young Queens is one of the best history books that I've read in a long time. Leah Redmond Chang does an excellent job of weaving together the stories of the young Catherine de Medici, Mary Stuart, and Elisabeth Valois, showing how each paid the price for the power she held in increasingly tragic ways. Her use of primary documents is excellent, particularly the letters written by each of these women to their relations. Chang perfectly straddles the line of professional history (with copious, very helpful footnotes that are put together very well) and engaging storyteller, never letting her emotional narration go over the line into over-dramatization. The audiobook, narrated by Olivia Dowd, is a perfect way to read the book -- I absolutely couldn't stop listening. I recommend this to anyone interested in the history of royal women.
You can find my full review (posted later today!) on www.culturecabinet.com.
I was given ARCs of this book and audiobook by Net Galley, RB Media, and Faux, Straus, & Giroux in exchange for an honest review. Both are now available for purchase.
You can find my full review (posted later today!) on www.culturecabinet.com.
I was given ARCs of this book and audiobook by Net Galley, RB Media, and Faux, Straus, & Giroux in exchange for an honest review. Both are now available for purchase.
August 27, 2023
Thank you Leah Redmond Chang, Netgalley and Recorded Books for giving me access to this advanced listening copy in exchange for my honest review.
I rarely listen to historical nonfiction, but this audiobook caught my eye instantly largely because of my fascination with the de' Medici family. I have been interested in de' Medicis since I read Maggie O'Farrell's The Marriage Portrait last year. I also always wanted to learn more about Mary, Queen of Scots who is just such an interesting historical figure, and is constantly being used to villainize queen Elizabeth I (Elizabeth Tudor) in the movies - I wanted to finally find out the truth! With regards to the third young queen discussed in the book, Elisabeth de Valois, queen of Spain - I honestly knew nothing at all about her. Funny, because
the parts about Elisabeth ended up being my favorite!
I am so glad that I decided to listen to Young Queens! This is a perfect example of real history being as fascinating if not MORE fascinating than historical fiction! And of course, I already knew how women were treated in the 1500s, even those who were fortunate enough to be born into wealth and even into royalty - traded like cattle, and valued only for their womb, but this was a powerful reminder of the centuries of repression. Lets just hope that the road to true equality ahead of us is not as long as the one that we have already traveled.
Young Queens is the fascinating account of how three women came to be some of the most powerful individuals during the renaissance era despite the unfavorable circumstances. Perhaps the most influential out of the three, Catherine de' Medici (rivaled only by Elizabeth Tudor) was actually not even fully "noble", and was reminded of that fact quite often during her long reign. Her father was from the powerful de' Medici family of Florence. They were merchants, bankers, doctors - but not royalty! After becoming an orphan at a very young age, Catherine was passed around from relative to relative, and used mercilessly in everyone's political games. Eventually, at 16, she was married off to the second son of the King of France, who later ascended the throne himself as Henry II. But that in itself was not why Catherine became one of the most powerful women in Europe. In fact she was almost "let go" by de' Valois' after not being able to conceive for long 10 years (ended up being Henry's problem SHOCKING(!)). But then she conceived and conceived, and conceived again, a total of TEN children! Only two ended up outliving their mom, one of them only by a few months. Catherine de' Medici practically invented the title of "Queen Mother". Before her all of the "queen mothers" or the former "queen consorts" were called a "Queen Dowager". But "Queen Mother" is so much more powerful. It assumes selfless sacrifice, and unwavering loyalty. Catherine used her motherhood, as well as her uncanny ability to read the situation in the room to rule France for decades, while her husband, and several sons were ascending the throne and then passing away one by one. An incredibly intelligent woman, she was always in favor of diplomacy vs violence, and was mercilessly critiqued for her tolerant approaches when it came to religious conflict resolutions.
Meanwhile, Catherine's eldest daughter, Elisabeth de' Valois was given as some sort of "peace offering" to France's "mortal enemy" King Filip II of Spain, and sent off to the foreign lands at the tender age of 14. Young Elisabeth, dubbed the "Queen of Peace '' by her Spanish subjects, who hoped that this union will finally bring peace between France and Spain, seemed an unlikely candidate to become a canning and influential queen consort that her mother, Catherine, so desperately needed her to be. A kind, and somewhat lighthearted child, she has always been more interested in art than in gaining political power, and seemed to get along with everyone because of her "tender ways". In addition to that her new husband, King Philip II, who was in his thirties (!!), regarded her as a child (which she was of course!). Yet in her short life, Elisabeth like so many in her time died at a tender age of 23, following a brutal miscarriage, she managed to somehow skillfully balance the never ending demands of her pushy, controlling mother with the loyalty to her new county and her husband. She managed to gain Philip's respect and even love (!), and used her natural friendliness to influence political decisions and broker compromises that were in the interest of both, France and Spain! Truly, a Queen of Peace if there ever was one!
And then there is Mary Stuart, the famous Queen of Scots. Mary, the legendary beauty, was different from both her mother in law, Catherine, and her sister-in-law Elisabeth. Mary was not a mere Queen Consort or a Queen Mother, but a Sovereign Monarch herself, crowned at the tender age of 5 days. Her French mother, Marie de' Guise, sent her to France, when Mary was a small girl to protect her from Scotland's powerful protestant lords. In France Mary grew up with French royalty, namely all of Catherine and Henry II's children. Francis, the Dauphin, who later on became Francis II of France, was her first husband. She returned to Scotland to rule as a sovereign queen after the death of Francis II, and after failing to secure marriage to the heir to the Spanish throne (which she desperately wanted!).
I think it is easy to judge Mary. She is often portrayed either as a hero for her people, and a true heir to the English throne, who fell prey to Elizabeth I's ambition and cruelty, or as a despot queen, a power hungry, spoiled child who knew nothing about her people and did not care for them one bit, but instead just kept fixating on the British crown. But after reading Young Queens, it is clear that she was neither. Yes, she was spoiled, and somewhat overly naive with regards to her understanding of what being a monarch, and a leader in general, really meant. Yes, she did not possess neither the innate compassion of Elisabeth de' Valois, nor the political shrewdness of Elizabeth Tudor or Catherine De'Medici. If anything, Mary was just a pretty, but rather average gal. But ...her circumstances! Who knows how life would have turned out for her if she did not have to assume all the responsibilities of the sovereign queen of a VERY troubled country at the age of 18! She was just a teen! And there was no one to guide her. No one that was loyal to her anyways. She made so many mistakes, so many disastrous choices, from second marriage to plotting against Elizabeth I, that if anything it is really surprising that she survived that long. In addition to that A LOT of very traumatic things happened to Mary: imprisonment, loosing her crown, never seeing her son, assassination attempts, rape, and famously her execution by Elizabeth I at the age of 44. Mary, Queen of Scots, did not stand a chance. No teenager of average intelligence would in her circumstances. Being a Sovereign Queen, and being successful in the 1500s, required no less than the genius of Elizabeth Tudor. Nothing less would do.
And this brings me to the Virgin Queen. Is there any queen more fascinating than Elizabeth I? The only one who was even remotely comparable was Catherine the Great of Russia in my opinion. Bastardized by her father, and losing her mother at an early age, Elizabeth Tudor managed not only to ascend the English throne but to KEEP IT for 45 years. And these 45 years were generally considered some of the most glorious in English history. While she is not one of the main heroines of Young Queens there is a good amount of info about her in there! Not enough though, if you ask me. Seriously, can Leah Redmond Chang please write a book JUST about Elizabeth please?!! What a truly fascinating woman, a genius politician that ruthlessly manipulated her own nobility and the neighboring kingdoms by dangling her "virginity" in front of them until the bitter end! A great example of turning your weakness into power! And yessss, being a woman was definitely considered a "weakness" in the 1500s, don't even start ....One tragic fact about her: did you know that almighty and powerful Elizabeth suffered serious neurological decline during her last years of life, and that it was likely due to lead poisoning? Her famous white makeup contained so much lead that it was basically a poison....
I found Young Queens to be such a fascinating listen! Olivia Dowd did an amazing job with narration! I will say though, that I kept googling the art work referenced in the book, as well as the many palaces and even fashion (!) A LOT! The print version has this amazing illustration section which if you like that sort of thing, may be a compelling enough reason to buy a hard copy.
I rarely listen to historical nonfiction, but this audiobook caught my eye instantly largely because of my fascination with the de' Medici family. I have been interested in de' Medicis since I read Maggie O'Farrell's The Marriage Portrait last year. I also always wanted to learn more about Mary, Queen of Scots who is just such an interesting historical figure, and is constantly being used to villainize queen Elizabeth I (Elizabeth Tudor) in the movies - I wanted to finally find out the truth! With regards to the third young queen discussed in the book, Elisabeth de Valois, queen of Spain - I honestly knew nothing at all about her. Funny, because
the parts about Elisabeth ended up being my favorite!
I am so glad that I decided to listen to Young Queens! This is a perfect example of real history being as fascinating if not MORE fascinating than historical fiction! And of course, I already knew how women were treated in the 1500s, even those who were fortunate enough to be born into wealth and even into royalty - traded like cattle, and valued only for their womb, but this was a powerful reminder of the centuries of repression. Lets just hope that the road to true equality ahead of us is not as long as the one that we have already traveled.
Young Queens is the fascinating account of how three women came to be some of the most powerful individuals during the renaissance era despite the unfavorable circumstances. Perhaps the most influential out of the three, Catherine de' Medici (rivaled only by Elizabeth Tudor) was actually not even fully "noble", and was reminded of that fact quite often during her long reign. Her father was from the powerful de' Medici family of Florence. They were merchants, bankers, doctors - but not royalty! After becoming an orphan at a very young age, Catherine was passed around from relative to relative, and used mercilessly in everyone's political games. Eventually, at 16, she was married off to the second son of the King of France, who later ascended the throne himself as Henry II. But that in itself was not why Catherine became one of the most powerful women in Europe. In fact she was almost "let go" by de' Valois' after not being able to conceive for long 10 years (ended up being Henry's problem SHOCKING(!)). But then she conceived and conceived, and conceived again, a total of TEN children! Only two ended up outliving their mom, one of them only by a few months. Catherine de' Medici practically invented the title of "Queen Mother". Before her all of the "queen mothers" or the former "queen consorts" were called a "Queen Dowager". But "Queen Mother" is so much more powerful. It assumes selfless sacrifice, and unwavering loyalty. Catherine used her motherhood, as well as her uncanny ability to read the situation in the room to rule France for decades, while her husband, and several sons were ascending the throne and then passing away one by one. An incredibly intelligent woman, she was always in favor of diplomacy vs violence, and was mercilessly critiqued for her tolerant approaches when it came to religious conflict resolutions.
Meanwhile, Catherine's eldest daughter, Elisabeth de' Valois was given as some sort of "peace offering" to France's "mortal enemy" King Filip II of Spain, and sent off to the foreign lands at the tender age of 14. Young Elisabeth, dubbed the "Queen of Peace '' by her Spanish subjects, who hoped that this union will finally bring peace between France and Spain, seemed an unlikely candidate to become a canning and influential queen consort that her mother, Catherine, so desperately needed her to be. A kind, and somewhat lighthearted child, she has always been more interested in art than in gaining political power, and seemed to get along with everyone because of her "tender ways". In addition to that her new husband, King Philip II, who was in his thirties (!!), regarded her as a child (which she was of course!). Yet in her short life, Elisabeth like so many in her time died at a tender age of 23, following a brutal miscarriage, she managed to somehow skillfully balance the never ending demands of her pushy, controlling mother with the loyalty to her new county and her husband. She managed to gain Philip's respect and even love (!), and used her natural friendliness to influence political decisions and broker compromises that were in the interest of both, France and Spain! Truly, a Queen of Peace if there ever was one!
And then there is Mary Stuart, the famous Queen of Scots. Mary, the legendary beauty, was different from both her mother in law, Catherine, and her sister-in-law Elisabeth. Mary was not a mere Queen Consort or a Queen Mother, but a Sovereign Monarch herself, crowned at the tender age of 5 days. Her French mother, Marie de' Guise, sent her to France, when Mary was a small girl to protect her from Scotland's powerful protestant lords. In France Mary grew up with French royalty, namely all of Catherine and Henry II's children. Francis, the Dauphin, who later on became Francis II of France, was her first husband. She returned to Scotland to rule as a sovereign queen after the death of Francis II, and after failing to secure marriage to the heir to the Spanish throne (which she desperately wanted!).
I think it is easy to judge Mary. She is often portrayed either as a hero for her people, and a true heir to the English throne, who fell prey to Elizabeth I's ambition and cruelty, or as a despot queen, a power hungry, spoiled child who knew nothing about her people and did not care for them one bit, but instead just kept fixating on the British crown. But after reading Young Queens, it is clear that she was neither. Yes, she was spoiled, and somewhat overly naive with regards to her understanding of what being a monarch, and a leader in general, really meant. Yes, she did not possess neither the innate compassion of Elisabeth de' Valois, nor the political shrewdness of Elizabeth Tudor or Catherine De'Medici. If anything, Mary was just a pretty, but rather average gal. But ...her circumstances! Who knows how life would have turned out for her if she did not have to assume all the responsibilities of the sovereign queen of a VERY troubled country at the age of 18! She was just a teen! And there was no one to guide her. No one that was loyal to her anyways. She made so many mistakes, so many disastrous choices, from second marriage to plotting against Elizabeth I, that if anything it is really surprising that she survived that long. In addition to that A LOT of very traumatic things happened to Mary: imprisonment, loosing her crown, never seeing her son, assassination attempts, rape, and famously her execution by Elizabeth I at the age of 44. Mary, Queen of Scots, did not stand a chance. No teenager of average intelligence would in her circumstances. Being a Sovereign Queen, and being successful in the 1500s, required no less than the genius of Elizabeth Tudor. Nothing less would do.
And this brings me to the Virgin Queen. Is there any queen more fascinating than Elizabeth I? The only one who was even remotely comparable was Catherine the Great of Russia in my opinion. Bastardized by her father, and losing her mother at an early age, Elizabeth Tudor managed not only to ascend the English throne but to KEEP IT for 45 years. And these 45 years were generally considered some of the most glorious in English history. While she is not one of the main heroines of Young Queens there is a good amount of info about her in there! Not enough though, if you ask me. Seriously, can Leah Redmond Chang please write a book JUST about Elizabeth please?!! What a truly fascinating woman, a genius politician that ruthlessly manipulated her own nobility and the neighboring kingdoms by dangling her "virginity" in front of them until the bitter end! A great example of turning your weakness into power! And yessss, being a woman was definitely considered a "weakness" in the 1500s, don't even start ....One tragic fact about her: did you know that almighty and powerful Elizabeth suffered serious neurological decline during her last years of life, and that it was likely due to lead poisoning? Her famous white makeup contained so much lead that it was basically a poison....
I found Young Queens to be such a fascinating listen! Olivia Dowd did an amazing job with narration! I will say though, that I kept googling the art work referenced in the book, as well as the many palaces and even fashion (!) A LOT! The print version has this amazing illustration section which if you like that sort of thing, may be a compelling enough reason to buy a hard copy.
November 30, 2023
Interesting book about three queens who are all closely related. The book starts with Catherine de Medici who became queen of France. Catherine also raised two sons who became future kings of France, a daughter Elizabeth De Valois who became Queen of Spain and our third person covered in the book and maybe the most famous of the three young queens Queen Mary of Scots who was also raised by Catherine de Medici.
It is crazy how influential Catherine de Medici was in the ruling and politics of Spain, England, Scotland and of course France. I liked that the author told the three stories together which I thought was very effective the problem was that I had different levels of interest in the three women.
I'll start with Elizabeth de Valois who by all accounts was a sweet innocent person used as a political pawn. She just didn't live long enough to have a very interesting life in my opinion. Her early death was certainly tragic but otherwise I'm not sure her life warranted the attention.
Catherine de Medici was much more interesting to me because she influenced at least five kings or queens if you count her husband, two sons, daughter and Mary Queen of Scots. I didn't find her very likeable but she was certainly cunning.
The third young queen in the title is the most famous and in my opinion most interesting. Mary Queen of Scots led one of the most interesting lives of the time. I really enjoyed the book when discussing Mary and found it to be much better than the other biography I read about Mary. Mary was in an impossible position in my opinion surrounded by traitors.
Overall a good read although a little more time on Mary and less on Elizabeth would have been more interesting in my opinion.
It is crazy how influential Catherine de Medici was in the ruling and politics of Spain, England, Scotland and of course France. I liked that the author told the three stories together which I thought was very effective the problem was that I had different levels of interest in the three women.
I'll start with Elizabeth de Valois who by all accounts was a sweet innocent person used as a political pawn. She just didn't live long enough to have a very interesting life in my opinion. Her early death was certainly tragic but otherwise I'm not sure her life warranted the attention.
Catherine de Medici was much more interesting to me because she influenced at least five kings or queens if you count her husband, two sons, daughter and Mary Queen of Scots. I didn't find her very likeable but she was certainly cunning.
The third young queen in the title is the most famous and in my opinion most interesting. Mary Queen of Scots led one of the most interesting lives of the time. I really enjoyed the book when discussing Mary and found it to be much better than the other biography I read about Mary. Mary was in an impossible position in my opinion surrounded by traitors.
Overall a good read although a little more time on Mary and less on Elizabeth would have been more interesting in my opinion.
May 28, 2025
While I've read plenty about Mary, Queen of Scots, and knew quite a bit about Catherine de Medici as well, Elisabeth the Valois, the third figure featured in this well-researched recounting of the interconnected lives of three Renaissance era queens bound by ties of blood and marriage, was virtually unknown to me. The sections focussing on her were therefore the most interesting to me, but the entire book was a compelling read.
November 30, 2025
I thought this was an interesting tack to take when writing about Mary Queen of Scots, because so often the only woman who is prominently featured is Elizabeth I, but of course she was surrounded by other women her entire life. And I didn't really know anything about Elisabeth de Valois at all, poor thing. Really liked this one!
May 27, 2024
What a fascinating read! I knew little about 16th century Europe before reading this, so I was in for such a treat. Redmond Chang did an impressive job of crafting a compelling story using primarily archival material, and I feel better off now knowing about the intricate history of these three queens.
November 17, 2024
This was enjoyable to read, and is a good accessible place to start for learning about Catherine Demedici and her daughter Elizabeth. I was more familiar with the story of Mary Queen of Scots, but didn't know as much about the French court where she grew up and which shaped her and her life for better and for worse.
August 1, 2023
“Young Queens” delves into the lives of three European queens who lived during the 16th century. The book appears to be well-researched and written although it did become a bit dry in its last half. It’s a good book if you are not familiar with the era or family members since a great deal of backstory is included by the author. There were a few instances when the stories were briefly recalled/repeated, which I found frustrating, however, it would likely be helpful if I were reading at a leisurely pace. Perhaps by virtue of listening to the audiobook, I found myself looking up the names, places, and artworks since it was hard to visualize correctly, particularly when names are similar. I hope that the printed edition will include those references.
Thanks to RB Media and NetGalley for this ARC audiobook given in exchange for an unbiased review. #YoungQueens #NetGalley
Thanks to RB Media and NetGalley for this ARC audiobook given in exchange for an unbiased review. #YoungQueens #NetGalley
June 1, 2024
This is an interesting way to present a specific period in history, through the connected lineage of these 3 queens and the different stages of their lives.
Whilst I knew a fair bit about Mary Stewart already, it was good to know more about her earlier years and before her imprisonment.
I really enjoyed learning about Catherine de Medici and Elisabeth de Valois, especially through the amount of letters sent by them.
The book itself was perhaps a bit too long, it's 18hr+ on audio but the narration by Olivia Dowd was excellent.
Whilst I knew a fair bit about Mary Stewart already, it was good to know more about her earlier years and before her imprisonment.
I really enjoyed learning about Catherine de Medici and Elisabeth de Valois, especially through the amount of letters sent by them.
The book itself was perhaps a bit too long, it's 18hr+ on audio but the narration by Olivia Dowd was excellent.
December 10, 2024
A well written book on a challenging subject. Hard to make reference material readable and interesting. I enjoyed reading about these Queens. Definitely recommend this book for an in depth look at these amazing women.
May 11, 2025
Very detailed. Based on documents, mostly letters. Had the impression of vicariously being there, in those times. Occasionally a charming, intimate passage. Not bad. A bit dragging toward the end.
Read
October 5, 2023I lost my hold on the book before finishing it. I might come back to it later.
April 15, 2025
Gave me a different insight into Queen Catherine of France. Already had a strong understanding of Mary Queen of Scots. A great read.
August 14, 2023
I thank Netgalley and Farrar, Straus, and Giroux Publishing for an uncorrected proof of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I originally heard about this book from several historians that I follow on Instagram and podcast formats. When this book was discussed on Not Just the Tudors I knew I wanted to read this book. Having finished it the best way I can describe this book is it is a Black Forest Cake for history lovers. Redmond Chang's research throughout this book is decadent and immense and how she examines the sources and paints a portrait of the women behind these sources is so refreshing.
The central narrative of this book is the life of Catherine de Medici. In part because Catherine is the link between Elisabeth de Valois and Mary, Queen of Scots, but also because she lived the longest. Although I have read books focused on Catherine in the past Redmond Chang's work paints a vivid, multilayered picture of Catherine as a woman, wife, mother, and Queen. Often it feels as though Catherine's story is segmented into one of those roles so a clear picture of her never emerges. However, the author's evaluations of Catherine's political motives and her emotional attachment to her children made this historical narrative of Catherine all the more dynamic.
My absolute favourite part of the book was the discussion of Elisabeth. I knew of her existence before reading this book as being a fan of history during this period she does make fleeting appearances, but finding a source that focuses specifically on Elisabeth de Valois is difficult to come by. The way that Redmond Chang was able to describe Elisabeth's life in Spain and the balancing act she attempted to maintain as a Queen of Spain and a daughter of France was truly breathtaking. As with Catherine, the use of Elisabeth's letters brought her to life. They also highlight the formidable role that she played in the dynamics of Franco-Spanish relations at the time. I was also entertained by Redmond Chang's speculation on how Catherine may have responded to some of Elisabeth's letters concerning diplomatic policy. Their mother-daughter relationship was well-highlighted throughout the book.
I did enjoy the discussion of Mary, Queen of Scots. I feel that Redmond Chang brought a refreshing perspective to Mary's story. Like with Catherine, I often feel there is also a dichotomy when portraying Mary, sinner or saint, perpetrator or victim. I appreciated how the author balanced a varied perspective of Mary's behaviours without attempting to psychologically examine her at a distance. Redmond Chang managed to give Mary both agency and vulnerability. I also think that the heart of the narrative in this book explains why Mary chose to go to England rather than France. By highlighting the political dynamics in each country and the perception of Darnley's murder and the Bothwell marriage in the Catholic countries of Spain and France it put events into an entirely new perspective for me.
In addition to providing a fresh perspective on three Queens at the heart of European politics in the middle of the 16th century, Redmond Chang's work is just so well written you feel as if you are watching a history documentary rather than reading a work of non-fiction. I think my only complaint with this book was that it was very hard to follow the timeline of events. For instance, in one chapter a family member is dead or a baby has been born when in the next chapter this event hasn't happened yet. Given the amount of information throughout the book though I was willing to overlook this.
Although the focus is on Catherine, Elisabeth, and Mary the author provides vivid detail of political events encircling these women's lives. The sheer amount of research conducted for this book alone makes this book important, but the way that Redmond Chang brings these Queens to life again makes it worthy of every award. Highly recommend. If you love monarchy, female power narratives, and reading accounts of historical figures in their own words this is a must-read.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Medical trauma, Confinement, Miscarriage, Blood, War, Violence, Suicidal thoughts, Infertility, Child death, Chronic illness, Terminal illness, Death, Religious bigotry, Sexism, Vomit, Misogyny, Mental illness, Adult/minor relationship
Moderate: Incest and Death of a parent
Minor: Sexual assault and Rape
I originally heard about this book from several historians that I follow on Instagram and podcast formats. When this book was discussed on Not Just the Tudors I knew I wanted to read this book. Having finished it the best way I can describe this book is it is a Black Forest Cake for history lovers. Redmond Chang's research throughout this book is decadent and immense and how she examines the sources and paints a portrait of the women behind these sources is so refreshing.
The central narrative of this book is the life of Catherine de Medici. In part because Catherine is the link between Elisabeth de Valois and Mary, Queen of Scots, but also because she lived the longest. Although I have read books focused on Catherine in the past Redmond Chang's work paints a vivid, multilayered picture of Catherine as a woman, wife, mother, and Queen. Often it feels as though Catherine's story is segmented into one of those roles so a clear picture of her never emerges. However, the author's evaluations of Catherine's political motives and her emotional attachment to her children made this historical narrative of Catherine all the more dynamic.
My absolute favourite part of the book was the discussion of Elisabeth. I knew of her existence before reading this book as being a fan of history during this period she does make fleeting appearances, but finding a source that focuses specifically on Elisabeth de Valois is difficult to come by. The way that Redmond Chang was able to describe Elisabeth's life in Spain and the balancing act she attempted to maintain as a Queen of Spain and a daughter of France was truly breathtaking. As with Catherine, the use of Elisabeth's letters brought her to life. They also highlight the formidable role that she played in the dynamics of Franco-Spanish relations at the time. I was also entertained by Redmond Chang's speculation on how Catherine may have responded to some of Elisabeth's letters concerning diplomatic policy. Their mother-daughter relationship was well-highlighted throughout the book.
I did enjoy the discussion of Mary, Queen of Scots. I feel that Redmond Chang brought a refreshing perspective to Mary's story. Like with Catherine, I often feel there is also a dichotomy when portraying Mary, sinner or saint, perpetrator or victim. I appreciated how the author balanced a varied perspective of Mary's behaviours without attempting to psychologically examine her at a distance. Redmond Chang managed to give Mary both agency and vulnerability. I also think that the heart of the narrative in this book explains why Mary chose to go to England rather than France. By highlighting the political dynamics in each country and the perception of Darnley's murder and the Bothwell marriage in the Catholic countries of Spain and France it put events into an entirely new perspective for me.
In addition to providing a fresh perspective on three Queens at the heart of European politics in the middle of the 16th century, Redmond Chang's work is just so well written you feel as if you are watching a history documentary rather than reading a work of non-fiction. I think my only complaint with this book was that it was very hard to follow the timeline of events. For instance, in one chapter a family member is dead or a baby has been born when in the next chapter this event hasn't happened yet. Given the amount of information throughout the book though I was willing to overlook this.
Although the focus is on Catherine, Elisabeth, and Mary the author provides vivid detail of political events encircling these women's lives. The sheer amount of research conducted for this book alone makes this book important, but the way that Redmond Chang brings these Queens to life again makes it worthy of every award. Highly recommend. If you love monarchy, female power narratives, and reading accounts of historical figures in their own words this is a must-read.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Medical trauma, Confinement, Miscarriage, Blood, War, Violence, Suicidal thoughts, Infertility, Child death, Chronic illness, Terminal illness, Death, Religious bigotry, Sexism, Vomit, Misogyny, Mental illness, Adult/minor relationship
Moderate: Incest and Death of a parent
Minor: Sexual assault and Rape
May 8, 2023
I recieved a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is the story of three Queens all linked by their attachment to France: Catherine de Medici, Elizabeth de Valois Queen of Spain and Mary Queen of Scots. I have long been fascinated with the women who helped shape the late sixteenth century but most of my reading had been on the women of the British Isles, including Mary. Catherine was a familiar name but I did not know much about her history, she was obviously a key figure in Anglo-French relations. Of the three Elizabeth was the one I knew least about.
I would not expect a comprehensive biography of the each of the three Queens, but I do not think that is what the author is intending. This instead is a book about the relationship dynamics which shaped the women, their relationships, their decisions, and arguably the direction of European politics. Through their letters, in the case of Catherine a truly voluminous correspondance, we can get a closer sense of the character of each and their motivations.
Having read biographies of Mary previously, I was most suprised by how much more I learnt in this book. Understanding more about those formative years in France, growing up alongside the French royal children, the impact of her Guise relatives and the adoration she recieved as an important political pawn. These events now make her later decisions once she returned to Scotland more explicable, she had been groomed to be a queen consort and to follow the advise of her male relatives; Mary had been taught not to think for herself and to rely on her tightly knit french family. Even by the time she fled to England she was still politically and emotionally a child. I have much more empathy for Mary the woman, she was hopelessly ill prepared to govern.
Catherine de Medici has had many charges laid against her door to the extent that she has become almost a characture, a symptom of which can been seen in Dumas's novel La Reine Margot. In returning to Catherines highly troubled childhood we understand more clearly her drivers both in enduring what must have been a humiliating marriage and her unwavering devotion to her children. This book definately shifted some perceptions, she was much more of an advocate for compromise and conciliation than I had been led to believe. A consumate politician who ended up guiding three kings of France through the tumultuous period of religious upheavel.
Poor Elizabeth, she was not so nearly important as the other Queens. However her story highlights the conflicts which must have beset many young princesses married off the cement dynastic and political alliences. Who does one support? The country and family of one's birth or the country and husband you married? Through her letters with her mother we see how she tries to find a balance. It is all the more impressive since she was married off at 13/14 and by her early twenties was dead.
I very much enjoyed this book and it should be read by anyone interested in the role of women in early modern politics.
I have not given it five stars because the copy I recieved was very poorly formatted for kindle, hopefully something they have subsequently resolved.
This is the story of three Queens all linked by their attachment to France: Catherine de Medici, Elizabeth de Valois Queen of Spain and Mary Queen of Scots. I have long been fascinated with the women who helped shape the late sixteenth century but most of my reading had been on the women of the British Isles, including Mary. Catherine was a familiar name but I did not know much about her history, she was obviously a key figure in Anglo-French relations. Of the three Elizabeth was the one I knew least about.
I would not expect a comprehensive biography of the each of the three Queens, but I do not think that is what the author is intending. This instead is a book about the relationship dynamics which shaped the women, their relationships, their decisions, and arguably the direction of European politics. Through their letters, in the case of Catherine a truly voluminous correspondance, we can get a closer sense of the character of each and their motivations.
Having read biographies of Mary previously, I was most suprised by how much more I learnt in this book. Understanding more about those formative years in France, growing up alongside the French royal children, the impact of her Guise relatives and the adoration she recieved as an important political pawn. These events now make her later decisions once she returned to Scotland more explicable, she had been groomed to be a queen consort and to follow the advise of her male relatives; Mary had been taught not to think for herself and to rely on her tightly knit french family. Even by the time she fled to England she was still politically and emotionally a child. I have much more empathy for Mary the woman, she was hopelessly ill prepared to govern.
Catherine de Medici has had many charges laid against her door to the extent that she has become almost a characture, a symptom of which can been seen in Dumas's novel La Reine Margot. In returning to Catherines highly troubled childhood we understand more clearly her drivers both in enduring what must have been a humiliating marriage and her unwavering devotion to her children. This book definately shifted some perceptions, she was much more of an advocate for compromise and conciliation than I had been led to believe. A consumate politician who ended up guiding three kings of France through the tumultuous period of religious upheavel.
Poor Elizabeth, she was not so nearly important as the other Queens. However her story highlights the conflicts which must have beset many young princesses married off the cement dynastic and political alliences. Who does one support? The country and family of one's birth or the country and husband you married? Through her letters with her mother we see how she tries to find a balance. It is all the more impressive since she was married off at 13/14 and by her early twenties was dead.
I very much enjoyed this book and it should be read by anyone interested in the role of women in early modern politics.
I have not given it five stars because the copy I recieved was very poorly formatted for kindle, hopefully something they have subsequently resolved.
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