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Inês
An heir to the throne, a gorgeous blonde lady-in-waiting, the king's trusted advisor. When a father and son don't understand each other, the son pays an outrageous price.
Love, jealousy, loyalty, and revenge roil the court of 14th century Portugal.
In this engrossing launch to the Queens of Portugal trilogy, Catherine Mathis gives a fresh take on the tale of Pedro and Inês, Portugal's real-life Romeo and Juliet. Pedro's father would not have been king if not for his trusted advisor, Gonçalves. Once king, he wants no part in neighboring Castile's royal convulsions though his son, Pedro, befriends powerful Castilians.
The all-consuming drive of the king is to ensure his line rules Portugal for centuries to come. He needs legitimate, strong heirs. The Infante Pedro loves a woman not deemed worthy to wear the crown as queen. Between father and son is Gonçalves, the king's powerful, unquestioned counselor who is mentor to the son. Both Gonçalves and Pedro seek the attention of Inês.
There is a horrific cost to winning the love of Inês. She will not release her grip on Pedro until he keeps the two sworn oaths he made to her. Can Pedro do the impossible to satisfy Inês?
Inês is based on real people and events exploring a cultural touchstone of Portuguese history.
Love, jealousy, loyalty, and revenge roil the court of 14th century Portugal.
In this engrossing launch to the Queens of Portugal trilogy, Catherine Mathis gives a fresh take on the tale of Pedro and Inês, Portugal's real-life Romeo and Juliet. Pedro's father would not have been king if not for his trusted advisor, Gonçalves. Once king, he wants no part in neighboring Castile's royal convulsions though his son, Pedro, befriends powerful Castilians.
The all-consuming drive of the king is to ensure his line rules Portugal for centuries to come. He needs legitimate, strong heirs. The Infante Pedro loves a woman not deemed worthy to wear the crown as queen. Between father and son is Gonçalves, the king's powerful, unquestioned counselor who is mentor to the son. Both Gonçalves and Pedro seek the attention of Inês.
There is a horrific cost to winning the love of Inês. She will not release her grip on Pedro until he keeps the two sworn oaths he made to her. Can Pedro do the impossible to satisfy Inês?
Inês is based on real people and events exploring a cultural touchstone of Portuguese history.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
293 pages, Paperback
Published October 14, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
March 28, 2026
The historical detail was amazing. I loved learning about this queen!
October 16, 2025
“Oh, you reach too far,” Coelho exclaimed. “All evidence we have suggests the Lady Inês acts as a loving mother to young Ferdinand. You suggest she would harm the boy? Ridiculous.”
“You say it yourself, Coelho,” Gonçalves said, taking the opening Coelho had given him. “She acts the part. What woman does not want her child to ascend the throne? Ferdinand has some illness every time we hear from Coimbra. Once and Beatrice have gone to God, what stops her?”
Inês de Castro finds herself ensnared in a tumultuous landscape of love and power. She had committed no crime, save for the boldness of marrying the king’s son and heir, Pedro, without obtaining the royal decree. Her heart was filled with a deep affection for Pedro’s son, Ferdinand, whom she cherished as if he were her flesh and blood. However, her choice of husband, along with the decision to raise a family in defiance of royal expectations, ignited a tragic sequence of events that would echo through the annals of history. This heart-wrenching tale of forbidden love and loyalty ultimately transformed into one of the most profound love stories ever recounted, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who come to know it.
“Inês (Queens of Portugal Trilogy)” by Catherine Mathis is a tale that brings the story of Inês and Pedro to a new generation of readers.
Portugal in the 14th century is described as a land rife with tension and intrigue, where the bonds of family are perilously close to unravelling. This is an era where sons cunningly plot against their fathers, and brothers engage in fierce battles for supremacy. The air is thick with scheming, each whispered conspiracy echoing through the grand halls and shadowy corridors of power. The struggle for dominance is palpable, creating an atmosphere where loyalty is a fragile facade and betrayal lurks around every corner. Mathis masterfully encapsulates the essence of this tumultuous era, drawing readers into the medieval world.
Mathis’ vivid imagery brings the setting to life; one can almost hear the clatter of armoured heels against stone and see the flickering shadows cast by torches in dimly lit passageways. With meticulous detail, Mathis portrays castles steeped in history, opulent palaces echoing with secrets, and tranquil manor houses where characters can escape the relentless buzz of court life. The bustling streets are alive with vibrant colours and the sounds of daily life. When the plague sweeps across the land of Portugal, Mathis vividly illustrates a nation engulfed in chaos and despair. The streets are filled with fear and uncertainty as communities grapple with the devastating impact of the disease, revealing the deep emotional and social turmoil that grips the country. This immersive backdrop not only places the reader within the historical context but also enhances the emotional impact of the story, making each moment feel urgent and real.
The writing is richly descriptive and deeply evocative, vividly painting scenes and emotions that draw the reader into the heart of the story. Mathis utilises lush imagery and intricate sensory details, allowing audiences to see, hear, and feel the world within the narrative. The voice adopts a formal and sophisticated tone, mirroring the refined social conventions and historical context of the era it depicts. Through the careful selection of archaic language and elaborate courtly phrases, the story not only captures the authenticity of its setting but also envelops the reader in a timeless experience, inviting them to immerse themselves fully in the unfolding tale.
The historical characters in this book are portrayed with great care and compassion, as the author makes a concerted effort to adhere to historical truth. The story follows the life of Pedro, who would later become known as Peter I of Portugal. Starting as an impressionable four-year-old, he matures into an arrogant youth, which disappoints his father. Despite his efforts to learn how to govern a kingdom, Pedro never seems able to gain his father’s approval, which impacts him profoundly. Pedro is resigned to a political marriage, but it is not his intended bride, Infanta Constanza of Castile, who captures his heart; rather, it is her lady-in-waiting, Lady Inês de Castro. He understands that she is beyond his reach, a forbidden temptation that society deems unacceptable. Yet, despite this knowledge, he cannot silence the yearning deep within his heart that compels him to love her, body and soul. Pedro is portrayed as a likeable character ensnared in a web of political intrigue while struggling to meet his father’s expectations. Knowing that he will one day rule Portugal, Pedro is quick to seek advice. However, as he grows in confidence, he becomes more attuned to his own judgment. In this poignant novel, Pedro endures profound hardships that have a strong impact on the reader. His struggles are vividly depicted, evoking a powerful sense of empathy as the reader watches him navigate his painful journey. The emotional weight of his suffering compels the reader to feel genuine compassion for him. At times, Pedro’s insatiable thirst for vengeance consumes him, driving his actions to the brink of madness. The brutal horrors he inflicts upon his prisoners reveal the depths of his rage, yet somehow, readers find it difficult to muster any sympathy for those who suffer at his hands. Pedro’s story is unforgettable because he lives a life of profound tragedy.
Lady Inês is depicted as a woman whose heart is profoundly devoted to her husband. Her love for him is passionate and unwavering, yet she possesses a remarkable insight into the perilous consequences that her union with Pedro might entail. Despite her keen awareness of these risks, she could never have foreseen the tragic conclusion that awaited her. Exiled for the “crime” of loving so deeply, her character resonates with an extraordinary charm and vulnerability. Readers are drawn to her endearing qualities, wishing fervently for a different fate—one that spared her from the heartache and despair that ultimately defined her story.
King Afonso IV, the father of Pedro, is portrayed as a deeply conflicted character. He struggles with his ambitions for the throne while also navigating strained relationships with his father and half-brother. After the death of his father, Afonso ascends to the throne with fierce determination. He is committed to eliminating any possibility of illegitimate offspring contesting his rule. Driven by a desire to avoid the bitter rivalries that have plagued his family in the past, he works hard to prevent a civil war that could threaten the stability of his kingdom. Surrounded by a loyal circle of advisors, Afonso is depicted as a genuinely likeable figure, often charming those around him with his charisma and leadership. However, some of his decisions raise concerns, leading to doubts about how much he should heed the advice of his advisors, who know how to manipulate his fears.
Of the various antagonists in this tale, Álvaro Gonçalves stands out as the most morally reprehensible. At first glance, he appears to be a cunning advisor, seemingly devoted to the king and genuinely concerned about maintaining stability within the kingdom. However, as time unfolds, his true nature is revealed. He skilfully manipulates his position, subtly guiding the king toward his own ambitious agenda. Gonçalves is a ruthless individual who cannot tolerate any perceived slight against him. This leads him down a dangerous path of vengeance, driven by his need for retribution, regardless of the potential fallout for both the king and himself. His duplicitous nature casts a dark shadow over the court, making him a formidable and treacherous adversary. He is a character whom the reader ultimately grows to despise.
“Inês (Queens of Portugal Trilogy)” by Catherine Mathis is an enthralling historical fiction novel that transports readers to the vibrant and tumultuous world of Portugal’s royal history. With richly detailed descriptions and intricate character development, the story delves into the lives of the men and women who shaped the nation. The themes in this story resonate deeply with the reader, exploring love, ambition, and the complexities of court life. Mathis masterfully weaves emotional depth into the narrative, creating a deeply engaging experience that leaves a lasting impression and invites readers on an unforgettable journey through the grandeur and intrigue of Portugal’s past.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde
The Coffee Pot Book Club
“You say it yourself, Coelho,” Gonçalves said, taking the opening Coelho had given him. “She acts the part. What woman does not want her child to ascend the throne? Ferdinand has some illness every time we hear from Coimbra. Once and Beatrice have gone to God, what stops her?”
Inês de Castro finds herself ensnared in a tumultuous landscape of love and power. She had committed no crime, save for the boldness of marrying the king’s son and heir, Pedro, without obtaining the royal decree. Her heart was filled with a deep affection for Pedro’s son, Ferdinand, whom she cherished as if he were her flesh and blood. However, her choice of husband, along with the decision to raise a family in defiance of royal expectations, ignited a tragic sequence of events that would echo through the annals of history. This heart-wrenching tale of forbidden love and loyalty ultimately transformed into one of the most profound love stories ever recounted, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who come to know it.
“Inês (Queens of Portugal Trilogy)” by Catherine Mathis is a tale that brings the story of Inês and Pedro to a new generation of readers.
Portugal in the 14th century is described as a land rife with tension and intrigue, where the bonds of family are perilously close to unravelling. This is an era where sons cunningly plot against their fathers, and brothers engage in fierce battles for supremacy. The air is thick with scheming, each whispered conspiracy echoing through the grand halls and shadowy corridors of power. The struggle for dominance is palpable, creating an atmosphere where loyalty is a fragile facade and betrayal lurks around every corner. Mathis masterfully encapsulates the essence of this tumultuous era, drawing readers into the medieval world.
Mathis’ vivid imagery brings the setting to life; one can almost hear the clatter of armoured heels against stone and see the flickering shadows cast by torches in dimly lit passageways. With meticulous detail, Mathis portrays castles steeped in history, opulent palaces echoing with secrets, and tranquil manor houses where characters can escape the relentless buzz of court life. The bustling streets are alive with vibrant colours and the sounds of daily life. When the plague sweeps across the land of Portugal, Mathis vividly illustrates a nation engulfed in chaos and despair. The streets are filled with fear and uncertainty as communities grapple with the devastating impact of the disease, revealing the deep emotional and social turmoil that grips the country. This immersive backdrop not only places the reader within the historical context but also enhances the emotional impact of the story, making each moment feel urgent and real.
The writing is richly descriptive and deeply evocative, vividly painting scenes and emotions that draw the reader into the heart of the story. Mathis utilises lush imagery and intricate sensory details, allowing audiences to see, hear, and feel the world within the narrative. The voice adopts a formal and sophisticated tone, mirroring the refined social conventions and historical context of the era it depicts. Through the careful selection of archaic language and elaborate courtly phrases, the story not only captures the authenticity of its setting but also envelops the reader in a timeless experience, inviting them to immerse themselves fully in the unfolding tale.
The historical characters in this book are portrayed with great care and compassion, as the author makes a concerted effort to adhere to historical truth. The story follows the life of Pedro, who would later become known as Peter I of Portugal. Starting as an impressionable four-year-old, he matures into an arrogant youth, which disappoints his father. Despite his efforts to learn how to govern a kingdom, Pedro never seems able to gain his father’s approval, which impacts him profoundly. Pedro is resigned to a political marriage, but it is not his intended bride, Infanta Constanza of Castile, who captures his heart; rather, it is her lady-in-waiting, Lady Inês de Castro. He understands that she is beyond his reach, a forbidden temptation that society deems unacceptable. Yet, despite this knowledge, he cannot silence the yearning deep within his heart that compels him to love her, body and soul. Pedro is portrayed as a likeable character ensnared in a web of political intrigue while struggling to meet his father’s expectations. Knowing that he will one day rule Portugal, Pedro is quick to seek advice. However, as he grows in confidence, he becomes more attuned to his own judgment. In this poignant novel, Pedro endures profound hardships that have a strong impact on the reader. His struggles are vividly depicted, evoking a powerful sense of empathy as the reader watches him navigate his painful journey. The emotional weight of his suffering compels the reader to feel genuine compassion for him. At times, Pedro’s insatiable thirst for vengeance consumes him, driving his actions to the brink of madness. The brutal horrors he inflicts upon his prisoners reveal the depths of his rage, yet somehow, readers find it difficult to muster any sympathy for those who suffer at his hands. Pedro’s story is unforgettable because he lives a life of profound tragedy.
Lady Inês is depicted as a woman whose heart is profoundly devoted to her husband. Her love for him is passionate and unwavering, yet she possesses a remarkable insight into the perilous consequences that her union with Pedro might entail. Despite her keen awareness of these risks, she could never have foreseen the tragic conclusion that awaited her. Exiled for the “crime” of loving so deeply, her character resonates with an extraordinary charm and vulnerability. Readers are drawn to her endearing qualities, wishing fervently for a different fate—one that spared her from the heartache and despair that ultimately defined her story.
King Afonso IV, the father of Pedro, is portrayed as a deeply conflicted character. He struggles with his ambitions for the throne while also navigating strained relationships with his father and half-brother. After the death of his father, Afonso ascends to the throne with fierce determination. He is committed to eliminating any possibility of illegitimate offspring contesting his rule. Driven by a desire to avoid the bitter rivalries that have plagued his family in the past, he works hard to prevent a civil war that could threaten the stability of his kingdom. Surrounded by a loyal circle of advisors, Afonso is depicted as a genuinely likeable figure, often charming those around him with his charisma and leadership. However, some of his decisions raise concerns, leading to doubts about how much he should heed the advice of his advisors, who know how to manipulate his fears.
Of the various antagonists in this tale, Álvaro Gonçalves stands out as the most morally reprehensible. At first glance, he appears to be a cunning advisor, seemingly devoted to the king and genuinely concerned about maintaining stability within the kingdom. However, as time unfolds, his true nature is revealed. He skilfully manipulates his position, subtly guiding the king toward his own ambitious agenda. Gonçalves is a ruthless individual who cannot tolerate any perceived slight against him. This leads him down a dangerous path of vengeance, driven by his need for retribution, regardless of the potential fallout for both the king and himself. His duplicitous nature casts a dark shadow over the court, making him a formidable and treacherous adversary. He is a character whom the reader ultimately grows to despise.
“Inês (Queens of Portugal Trilogy)” by Catherine Mathis is an enthralling historical fiction novel that transports readers to the vibrant and tumultuous world of Portugal’s royal history. With richly detailed descriptions and intricate character development, the story delves into the lives of the men and women who shaped the nation. The themes in this story resonate deeply with the reader, exploring love, ambition, and the complexities of court life. Mathis masterfully weaves emotional depth into the narrative, creating a deeply engaging experience that leaves a lasting impression and invites readers on an unforgettable journey through the grandeur and intrigue of Portugal’s past.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde
The Coffee Pot Book Club
September 30, 2025
At first glance, Inês might seem like just another retelling of a well-known tragic romance, but Catherine Mathis surprises with a deeply immersive and emotionally rich take on the story of Inês de Castro and Prince Pedro of Portugal. What I didn’t expect was just how vivid and complex this novel would be, blending romance, political intrigue, and historical drama into a narrative that feels fresh despite its centuries-old roots.
Mathis’s portrayal of medieval Portugal is impressively detailed, bringing to life the sights, sounds, and power struggles of the 14th-century court. The political maneuvering and factional tensions aren’t just background—they are integral to the story, shaping characters’ decisions and underscoring the precariousness of love in a world ruled by duty and ambition. The author’s ability to weave historical facts with the fictionalized inner lives of her characters adds depth and authenticity to the tale.
The heart of the book, of course, is the relationship between Inês and Pedro. Far from being a simple romance, it is a layered exploration of love under siege—both from external enemies and internal conflicts. Inês emerges as a strong, intelligent woman who refuses to be merely a pawn in political games. Pedro is complex and conflicted, torn between his royal responsibilities and his passionate devotion. Their love feels real and raw, making the inevitable tragedy hit even harder.
One of the unexpected delights of the novel is Mathis’s skill in portraying secondary characters with nuance, from scheming nobles to loyal friends. These supporting roles enrich the story and make the world feel fully inhabited. The pacing is generally strong, with well-placed moments of tension and tenderness that keep the reader engaged throughout.
That said, the book isn’t without flaws. Some parts occasionally slow down with heavy exposition or overly detailed descriptions, which can disrupt the narrative flow. A few plot points felt a bit predictable, especially for readers familiar with the legend. Additionally, while the romance is powerful, some emotional moments could have benefitted from a bit more subtlety or restraint to make them even more impactful.
Overall, Inês is a compelling and well-crafted historical novel that offers more than expected. It balances love, loss, and politics with a steady hand and delivers a story that resonates emotionally while painting a vivid picture of medieval Portugal. For those interested in historical fiction or tragic romances with a political edge, this book is a rewarding read and a strong addition to the Queens of Portugal trilogy.
Mathis’s portrayal of medieval Portugal is impressively detailed, bringing to life the sights, sounds, and power struggles of the 14th-century court. The political maneuvering and factional tensions aren’t just background—they are integral to the story, shaping characters’ decisions and underscoring the precariousness of love in a world ruled by duty and ambition. The author’s ability to weave historical facts with the fictionalized inner lives of her characters adds depth and authenticity to the tale.
The heart of the book, of course, is the relationship between Inês and Pedro. Far from being a simple romance, it is a layered exploration of love under siege—both from external enemies and internal conflicts. Inês emerges as a strong, intelligent woman who refuses to be merely a pawn in political games. Pedro is complex and conflicted, torn between his royal responsibilities and his passionate devotion. Their love feels real and raw, making the inevitable tragedy hit even harder.
One of the unexpected delights of the novel is Mathis’s skill in portraying secondary characters with nuance, from scheming nobles to loyal friends. These supporting roles enrich the story and make the world feel fully inhabited. The pacing is generally strong, with well-placed moments of tension and tenderness that keep the reader engaged throughout.
That said, the book isn’t without flaws. Some parts occasionally slow down with heavy exposition or overly detailed descriptions, which can disrupt the narrative flow. A few plot points felt a bit predictable, especially for readers familiar with the legend. Additionally, while the romance is powerful, some emotional moments could have benefitted from a bit more subtlety or restraint to make them even more impactful.
Overall, Inês is a compelling and well-crafted historical novel that offers more than expected. It balances love, loss, and politics with a steady hand and delivers a story that resonates emotionally while painting a vivid picture of medieval Portugal. For those interested in historical fiction or tragic romances with a political edge, this book is a rewarding read and a strong addition to the Queens of Portugal trilogy.
September 16, 2025
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Star-crossed love, gothic pageantry, and vengeance carved into stone
Catherine Mathis opens her Queens of Portugal Trilogy with a story that is as haunting as it is beautiful. Inês will take you straight into 14th-century Portugal, where love and power are always on a collision course. It’s a book full of candlelit chapels, smoky council rooms, bloody battlefields, and a romance that defied a king.
At the heart of the novel is Pedro, heir to the throne, and Inês de Castro, the woman whose very existence threatened dynasties. Their love story is fought for in courts, on battlefields, and finally carved in stone. Pedro is portrayed with both passion and obsession, while Inês is far more than a tragic legend: she’s a mother, a strategist, and a survivor. Together, they burn bright in a world determined to tear them apart.
The book doesn’t shy away from the darker turns of history. The murder at Santa Clara is quick and devastating, the posthumous coronation at Alcobaça is macabre and unforgettable, and Pedro’s revenge against Inês’s killers is both chilling and strangely satisfying. Mathis balances pageantry with raw physical detail—you’ll smell the incense and blood, feel the weight of stone and steel, and hear the vows that echo long after they’re sworn.
This isn’t just a romance. It’s court intrigue, dynastic struggle, plague years, and gothic theater all rolled into one. The story asks what makes power real. Is it love, bloodlines, or the oaths sworn in front of witnesses? And it shows how memory can outlive even the grave when a love is strong enough to defy kings.
Inês is sweeping, tragic, and unforgettable. It’s the perfect read for anyone who wants their historical fiction with passion, politics, and just the right touch of the eerie. As the first volume of the trilogy, it sets the stage for more epic intrigue.
Tropes & Vibes
Star-crossed lovers bound by secret vows
Court intrigue with a ruthless fixer
Gothic pageantry: corpses enthroned, vows sworn in vaulted stone, vengeance as performance
Found family and contested heirs, with children’s futures hanging in the balance
Love versus duty, entwined with the spectacle of power
Review copy provided by Histria Books @ Net Galley
Star-crossed love, gothic pageantry, and vengeance carved into stone
Catherine Mathis opens her Queens of Portugal Trilogy with a story that is as haunting as it is beautiful. Inês will take you straight into 14th-century Portugal, where love and power are always on a collision course. It’s a book full of candlelit chapels, smoky council rooms, bloody battlefields, and a romance that defied a king.
At the heart of the novel is Pedro, heir to the throne, and Inês de Castro, the woman whose very existence threatened dynasties. Their love story is fought for in courts, on battlefields, and finally carved in stone. Pedro is portrayed with both passion and obsession, while Inês is far more than a tragic legend: she’s a mother, a strategist, and a survivor. Together, they burn bright in a world determined to tear them apart.
The book doesn’t shy away from the darker turns of history. The murder at Santa Clara is quick and devastating, the posthumous coronation at Alcobaça is macabre and unforgettable, and Pedro’s revenge against Inês’s killers is both chilling and strangely satisfying. Mathis balances pageantry with raw physical detail—you’ll smell the incense and blood, feel the weight of stone and steel, and hear the vows that echo long after they’re sworn.
This isn’t just a romance. It’s court intrigue, dynastic struggle, plague years, and gothic theater all rolled into one. The story asks what makes power real. Is it love, bloodlines, or the oaths sworn in front of witnesses? And it shows how memory can outlive even the grave when a love is strong enough to defy kings.
Inês is sweeping, tragic, and unforgettable. It’s the perfect read for anyone who wants their historical fiction with passion, politics, and just the right touch of the eerie. As the first volume of the trilogy, it sets the stage for more epic intrigue.
Tropes & Vibes
Star-crossed lovers bound by secret vows
Court intrigue with a ruthless fixer
Gothic pageantry: corpses enthroned, vows sworn in vaulted stone, vengeance as performance
Found family and contested heirs, with children’s futures hanging in the balance
Love versus duty, entwined with the spectacle of power
Review copy provided by Histria Books @ Net Galley
October 28, 2025
Hands up, confession time, I know absolutely nothing about Portuguese history. Nothing. Zilch. Nada! So, I was really excited to be offered a copy of Catherine Mathis' novel about the ill-fated love affair between Pedro and Inês. And blow my socks off, what a story this turned out to be. There is romance, passion, jealousy, and decapitation. And here I was thinking the English monarchy was bad enough!
The story is really, really good, like, can't put it down good. The characters enter your life through the pages of this book, and I have to be honest, they haven't left yet, so moved was I by their story. For those who don't know, these historical star-crossed lovers meet a worse fate than Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Although Pedro survives, he does come over quite mad in the end, but then I am not surprised; I would have been mad too.
The plots, and the schemes and dangers of court life have been wonderfully drawn, and I really felt like I was there witnessing the events, an active participant if you will, who cannot interact. It is an odd sensation when a book really grabs you and pulls you in, but only the good books do such things. And this is a good book.
If, like me, you are a Portuguese history virgin and know nothing about this era, then don't panic, because the storytelling is sublime and utterly enthralling from beginning to end. I can't wait to get my hands on book
*I received a copy of this book from The Coffee Pot Book Club for review consideration.
The story is really, really good, like, can't put it down good. The characters enter your life through the pages of this book, and I have to be honest, they haven't left yet, so moved was I by their story. For those who don't know, these historical star-crossed lovers meet a worse fate than Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Although Pedro survives, he does come over quite mad in the end, but then I am not surprised; I would have been mad too.
The plots, and the schemes and dangers of court life have been wonderfully drawn, and I really felt like I was there witnessing the events, an active participant if you will, who cannot interact. It is an odd sensation when a book really grabs you and pulls you in, but only the good books do such things. And this is a good book.
If, like me, you are a Portuguese history virgin and know nothing about this era, then don't panic, because the storytelling is sublime and utterly enthralling from beginning to end. I can't wait to get my hands on book
*I received a copy of this book from The Coffee Pot Book Club for review consideration.
December 18, 2025
Portugal has a very rich and dramatic history, but for some reason it's a subject matter that has flown completely under the radar and there are very, very few options out there in terms of fictional reading. So needless to say, I was more than excited to receive an advanced digital copy of this book.
Unfortunately, I found the actual writing to be quite lacking on many fronts. To be fair, there was A LOT of political intrigue and history that Mathis had to unpack and explain. It was a highly complicated time to be alive in medieval Portugal. But this story needed a voice that was sharp, swift, and concise. Instead we got clunky, languid and over-detailed. Sentences that only needed to be 10 words used 22. A lot of the dialogue was flat and hard to follow. The premise promised immediate intrigue and intensity, but instead we received an arduous introduction into 14th century Portuguese monarchy. This writing is much more suitable for non-fiction material than historical fiction and romance.
There is SO much potential to the story of Pedro and Inês, I would love to see this book reworked and re-edited before continuing on with the rest of the trilogy. Thank you Histria Books and Netgalley for the advanced digital ARC.
Unfortunately, I found the actual writing to be quite lacking on many fronts. To be fair, there was A LOT of political intrigue and history that Mathis had to unpack and explain. It was a highly complicated time to be alive in medieval Portugal. But this story needed a voice that was sharp, swift, and concise. Instead we got clunky, languid and over-detailed. Sentences that only needed to be 10 words used 22. A lot of the dialogue was flat and hard to follow. The premise promised immediate intrigue and intensity, but instead we received an arduous introduction into 14th century Portuguese monarchy. This writing is much more suitable for non-fiction material than historical fiction and romance.
There is SO much potential to the story of Pedro and Inês, I would love to see this book reworked and re-edited before continuing on with the rest of the trilogy. Thank you Histria Books and Netgalley for the advanced digital ARC.
January 5, 2026
Set in the heart of Portugal’s tumultuous, riveting fourteenth century, Inês, the first book in Catherine Mathis’s much-anticipated Queens of Portugal trilogy, is one I simply could not put down. Elegant and entertaining, this is the tragic, beguiling story of Inês de Castro, the beautiful blond lady-in-waiting considered unworthy of wearing the royal crown, and her passion for Pedro, the successor to the throne whose father demands heirs worthy of ruling the country forevermore. Marry Inês? Never. Pedro and Inês have been aptly described as Portugal’s real-life Romeo and Juliet. They are that and so much more. This is beautifully conceived and written historical fiction: based on real events featuring characters who are larger than life and profoundly relatable. A deadly family feud, an ageless love story. I can’t wait to read Book Two in the series. Highly Recommended.
April 21, 2026
Beautiful love syory
After visiting Portugal, one of the cities I visited was Coimbra. The Santa Clara monastery, although almost destroyed, is an abandoned site but intriguing to me. After reading the story of Ines and Pedro I searched for books but none found. This book was recently released and I enjoyed it a lot. Well written in the period time language, nevertheless, easy to read. This is a story of long lasting love not known by many but a gift once you learned of it. Thank you for your book. Looking forward to the next book.
After visiting Portugal, one of the cities I visited was Coimbra. The Santa Clara monastery, although almost destroyed, is an abandoned site but intriguing to me. After reading the story of Ines and Pedro I searched for books but none found. This book was recently released and I enjoyed it a lot. Well written in the period time language, nevertheless, easy to read. This is a story of long lasting love not known by many but a gift once you learned of it. Thank you for your book. Looking forward to the next book.
January 31, 2026
Thank you, Catherine Mathis. Inês (Queens of Portugal) helped me endure four days without power during Nashville’s ice storm. I was completely immersed in this 14th-century tale of forbidden love and revenge, and I learned so much about Portugal’s early history along the way. Inês is a winner in so many ways. My only question: how long do we have to wait for the sequel?
December 11, 2025
Fascinating story of a medieval Portuguese queen. See my review at ReadingWorld
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews