The Crownless Queen

Jeanette of Kent Duology #2

by Elizabeth Chadwick

1360: Having left her days of rebellion behind, Jeanette of Kent has finally found contentment as a wife and mother. Then, she is delivered a new her beloved husband, Thomas Holland, has died on duty overseas.

Though broken, Jeanette readies herself once more to fight to protect what is hers. And when Prince Edward, heir to the throne and her longtime friend, unexpectedly steps forward and offers marriage, she accepts for the sake of her family.

As their relationship deepens, love blossoms again for Jeanette, but it comes at a price. With great power comes great responsibility - not least bearing a future king - and, as the wheel of fortune climbs higher, it becomes harder and harder to hold on.

Jeanette has more to lose than ever before. But with the wolves gathering beneath her, can she survive the fall?

From the award-winning and bestselling author Elizabeth Chadwick comes the much-awaited second novel in the Jeanette of Kent duology, The Crownless Queen - bringing to a powerful conclusion the remarkable story of a woman who began life as a royal rebel and ended it behind the throne...

Real readers loved reading about how Jeanette's story

'As a historian who specialises in historical fiction, I enjoyed this immensely. It is a great follow-up and conclusion to the duology about Jeanette of Kent' NetGalley Reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'The characters felt real to me and I love the detail of the historical background...very well researched' NetGalley Reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'Another fabulous book by Elizabeth Chadwick. She is the queen of sculpting people from the past [into] great stories' NetGalley Reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'A great follow-up to The Royal Rebel, which doesn't need to be read to understand this book...For anyone who loves history this is a must read. The characters are real, the atmosphere of the times beautifully crafted and the locations are so well written and described' NetGalley Reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'I loved this book. Superb writing, and a very interesting account of the life of a great lady' NetGalley Reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'I love Elizabeth Chadwick and this did not disappoint. Every time you open a book by Ms Chadwick, you are immersed in a time long past...Plenty of gorgeous period detail and of course brilliantly written. If you love well written historical fiction, this is the book for you...a rare treat' NetGalley Reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Genres: Historical Fiction, Medieval, Historical, British Literature

464 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 9, 2026

About the author

Best selling historical novelist Elizabeth Chadwick won a Betty Trask Award for her first novel The Wild Hunt. She has been shortlisted for the UK's mainstream Best Romantic Novel of the Year Award 4 times and longlisted twice. Her novel The Scarlet Lion about the great William Marshal and his wife Isabelle de Clare, has been selected by Richard Lee, founder of the Historical Novel Society as one of the landmark historical novels of the last ten years.
When not at her desk, she can be found taking long walks with the dog, baking cakes, reading books (of course!) exploring ruins, listening to various brands of rock and metal music, and occasionally slaving over a steaming cauldron with re-enactment society Regia Anglorum.

Reviews

[HalKid2 · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE CROWNLESS QUEEN is the compelling, second, and final book in a series by Elizabeth Chadwick, who, in my opinion, is one of the best historical fiction writers around. Together, these novels tell the story of royal princess Joan "Jeanette" of Kent (1328-1385), born the daughter of a younger son of England's King Edward I, who eventually became the wife of Edward of Woodstock (1330-1376). Edward was the first-born son of King Edward III (1312-1377), later known to history as the Black Prince.

While the first novel in this duology (THE ROYAL REBEL) covers the story of Joan's childhood and first marriage to Thomas Holland (1314-1360), this paints a rich picture of her second marriage. I wholeheartedly recommend both.

Because I knew little about Joan going in, this series gave me the chance to be completely immersed in medieval England and learn about a time where the Plantagenets plant (no pun intended) the seeds for the coming Wars of the Roses (1455-1487). Because, after all, it's the marital pairing of Edward of Woodstock and Joan of Kent that produces King Richard II (also the subject of Chadwick's next novel).

THE CROWNLESS QUEEN is also the tender story of the developing love between the two main characters, as they navigate a complex political climate which includes:

• Edward's mysterious health issues,
• the slow physical and mental deterioration of King Edward III,
• the growing influence of the king's corrupt and much-hated mistress, Alice Perrers (1348-1400),
• the increasing influence of Edward's younger brother, John of Gaunt,
• and, as if that weren't enough, the Hundred Years' War (1337-1453).

Obviously that all adds up to plenty of drama. Chadwick is a skilled story teller. Her characters are fully fleshed out and ring true, even some 700 years later. She knows just how much period detail to include -- enough to add authenticity without becoming cumbersome or slowing the pace. I recommend both books which introduced me to a new, fascinating, and intelligent woman from English history, during a period of time I will now look to learn more about.

[Tania · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 rounded up.

I have enjoyed some of Elizabeth Chadwicks previous novels, especially those on Eleanor of Aquitane, so I choose this one even though I hadn't read the first book. I don't think that mattered here.

This is not a period of time that I know a lot about, though I would like to know more, and I am told that she is pretty historically accurate; I will have to take that on trust. Sadly, I didn't care too much about any of the characters, and found the story rather flat. Interesting enough to keep going, but I doubt it's one I shall ever be rereading. I will happily pick up her other books though, and hopefully find more engaging characters in them.

*Many thanks to Netgally and the publishers for a copy in exchange for an honest opinion.*

[Mijou · Rating 2 out of 5]

Review of The Crownless Queen by Elizabeth Chadwick

The Crownless Queen by Elizabeth Chadwick is the second installment in her series following Joan of Kent, the wife of Prince Edward, known as the Black Prince. Having read both the first book and now its sequel, this continuation follows Joan in her new role as Princess of Wales—navigating court life, her position within the royal family, and the evolving dynamics of power and expectation. The narrative also touches on the upbringing of her son, Thomas, and his developing relationship with Lady Alys.

I have been reading Chadwick’s work since I was thirteen years old. My first novel of hers was The Leopard Unleashed, and since then I have read through the entirety of the Ravenstow series, the William Marshal series, and her more recent publications such as A Marriage of Lions. Her writing has long been a benchmark for historically grounded yet emotionally engaging medieval fiction.

However, this novel lacks much of what I have come to recognize as Chadwick’s signature style.

The chapters feel noticeably shorter, and the characters—surprisingly—lack depth and distinct personality. Rather than immersing the reader in the inner lives of its figures, the book often reads more like a biographical account than a work of historical fiction (though I am fully aware that the characters themselves are based on real historical individuals).

There is a recurring emphasis on movement—on where the characters are going next, the logistics of travel, and shifting locations—rather than on developing the characters themselves. As a result, the emotional and psychological depth that once defined Chadwick’s work feels diminished.

I also find myself somewhat disappointed that Chadwick has moved away from the 12th century, where her storytelling has traditionally felt strongest, to focus more extensively on the 14th century. While this is, of course, a natural progression in her authorship and research interests, it nonetheless marks a shift that—at least for me—loses some of the richness and familiarity that drew me to her work in the first place.

That said, I remain appreciative of Chadwick as an author, and I approached this latest release with genuine excitement. Unfortunately, I cannot ignore the sense that her three most recent books have felt noticeably weaker compared to her earlier works.

[Jaffareadstoo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read The Royal Rebel, which is the first book in this duology about Joan of Kent, I was intrigued to see how the story would continue particularly following her first husband’s death in France. As always the author brings this medieval world vibrantly to life and I was soon engrossed in Joan’s life as she come to terms with the loss of her great love, Thomas Holland, and of her future as the first Princess of Wales on her marriage to Prince Edward, who we know better as the Black Prince. There is no doubt that the relationship between Joan and Edward was a love match but with the danger that was ever present in the lives of medieval power people there was no respite for them from danger and tragedy. However, the romance of a beautiful love affair sits comfortably alongside the more dangerous aspects of living in this turbulent time in medieval history.

The author always brings the adventure of the medieval world to life so accurately that I feel like I have lived alongside Joan and Edward as they lived out their complicated lives and whilst I knew ultimately how their relationship would evolve, I have enjoyed spending time in their world and was particularly interested in the years spent with Joan and Edward in Aquitaine, learning more about a period of French and Castilian history of which I had scant knowledge.

Bringing history alive is what this author does best and The Crownless Queen has been a real joy to read, to go back in time to observe the tragedies which were ingrained in life and of the danger and surprises which were very much a part of living so close to the English throne. Concluding the fascinating story of this powerful medieval matriarch, The Crownless Queen is Elizabeth Chadwick, once again, writing at her very best.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was genuinely moved by the contents of this book, and the final section left me in tears. I knew what would happen to some of the people in Jeanette's life, so nothing was a surprise. However, reading it left me heartbroken, which was completely unexpected.

I have read Elizabeth’s work before and am a fan; however, I preferred this second book in the duology over the first because Jeanette, as an adult, was a formidable presence. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this and found the contrast between the two versions of Jeanette in both books very interesting. The focus was on Jeanette, but we also got to experience different characters' points of view, and I loved that; I often wanted to read more from them.

Edward, as a character, was the one who genuinely moved me the most; his love for Jeanette and the changes he underwent throughout the book were just incredibly sad. I also love to see John of Gaunt in any novel, so I cannot wait for Elizabeth to write more about him. Alice Perrers was also an interesting addition; I’ve read a novel about her before, and she was portrayed in a much softer light, so I found this interpretation to be intriguing.

I had a wonderful time reading this, learnt a lot, and recommend it to anyone who loves historical fiction with romantic elements.

Thank you to Netgalley and Little, Brown Book Group for access to the ARC.

[Charlotte reads history · Rating 4 out of 5]

What does it take to hold power when you can never wear the crown?

Bringing to life another woman from the medieval period, The Crownless Queen focuses on the adulthood of Joan of Kent - most well known as the Black Prince's wife, but as this story will show, a formidable political player in herself.

The Crownless Queen is the second in the duology, although it can be read easily as a standalone novel. We meet Jeanette (as she was known to those close to her) just before her ascension to power as wife of the heir to the throne. Chadwick's attention to detail and research in the medieval period is second to none, and it is those little details that enrich the story to make it so immersive.

The story is an epic across several years, as Jeanette supports her family to hold onto power, to try and govern justly and to protect those she cares about against the political machinations of the court and conflict with other countries. But it's not just these power struggles that are explored, as Chadwick also gives a moving insight into deep grief, mental health and the complexities of leadership.

Thank you to @littlebrownbookgroup_uk for an advanced, gifted copy of The Crownless Queen for review, which is out now!

Q: What draws you to historical fiction: the politics, the personal lives, or something else entirely?

[Jo-anne Atkinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Happily married, rich and with a growing family Jeanette feels life is finally going well until she receives news that her husband, Thomas Holland, has died. Now she is a vulnerable widow, likely to be forced to marry again as she is rich and well-connected. Still grieving she agrees to marry her cousin Edward, eldest son of King Edward. He is a close friend and she grows to love him. In Gascony she gives birth to two sons but her husband contracts a mysterious debilitating illness and she turns from lover to nursemaid.
This is the second part of Chadwick's series about Joan of Kent, the mother of Richard II. She led a fairly scandalous life for one so close to the throne, after her repudiated first marriage she found love with Thomas Holland then married Edward, the Black Prince. In common with all Chadwick's novels, this is seen through a romantic lens, but I did like the fact that Joan is not portrayed as an insipid character, she supported Edward during his long illness and held power during the minority of her son.

[Jennifer (JC-S) · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘Alive in the pure joy of the moment, Jeanette laughed as Prince Edward, the King’s eldest son, grasped her hand and swept her into the dance.’

I recently read ‘The Royal Rebel’ and was keen to see how Ms Chadwick would continue Jeanette’s story. Yes, I was aware that Jeanette would be widowed and would marry Prince Edward, the eldest son of King Edward III. But knowing historical fact does not usually deliver the sense of people and place that well-written historical fiction does.

Ms Chadwick brings Joan of Kent (known as Jeanette) to life. We accompany her as she grieves for Thomas Holland and see how her marriage to Prince Edward comes about. There is both happiness and sadness in this story, and those of us familiar with this period of history know that further turbulence lies ahead. But to stay with the novel, in addition to the main characters, I especially enjoyed Ms Chadwick’s depiction of John of Gaunt.

Highly recommended.

Jennifer Cameron-Smith

[Jane Gent · Rating 5 out of 5]

As usual I went straight through this book. I love Elizabeth Chadwick and for me as usual this one did not disappoint. I find her writing the most succinct and compelling out of all the historical novelists, and always look forward to the next one coming out. She always explains her take on the story as she saw it at the end, and why she made the protagonists into the characters she created. Very much looking forward to her next one on Katherine Swynford and John of Gaunt, I think these two deserve their own place in history - so much descended from their line. I don’t actually mean this to be a history lesson and I realise I’ve gone off on a bit of a tangent here- but suffice to say, it was well up to her usual standard and I’d encourage anyone who enjoys royal history to read these books from the beginning, which starts with ‘A Place beyond Courage’.

[Alex Dold · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance reader copy!

As a historian who specialised in historical fiction I enjoyed this immensely. It is a great follow up and conclusion to the duology about Jeanette of Kent.

The characters felt real to me and I loved the detail of the historical background. I could envision the time brilliantly which allowed me to dive even deeper into the story.
Historical fiction is never about 100% accuracy but it did feel very well researched as expected from Elizabeth Chadwick.

Anybody who has read Chadwick's work before or loves detailed historical fiction with characters that are slightly romanticised will really enjoy this book.

[Jeanne Godfroy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay - this book moved way faster than its predecessor (see my review for the "Royal Rebel"), and I think that is because Joan's history for this period is better documented. I enjoyed watching Joan blossom, attempt to avert disaster, and deal with the consequences - an extraordinary life and also a difficult one. Chadwick does a wonderful job as always with the details of dress, social customs, and royal interactions/observations. That said...being an avid fan of Anya Seton's "Katherine," I had a hard time warming up to Chadwick's perspectives on Katherine Swynford and John of Lancaster - she's promised a book on the latter, which I will absolutely read when it comes out, though.

[HILARY ANDERSON - BELL · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Elizabeth Chadwick and as expected this did not disappoint. Every time you open a book by Ms Chadwick you are immersed in a time long past. This novel continues on from A Royal Rebel and concludes the duology about Jeanette of Kent.
Plenty of gorgeous period detail and of course brilliantly written.
If you love well written historical fiction this is the book for you if you haven't read any Elizabeth Chadwick I am envious because you are in for a rare treat

Come back to your Review on the pub date, Apr 09 2026, to post to retailers.

[Michelle Wileman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great follow up to her previous book, the Royal Rebel which doesn’t need to be read to understand this book. Although I suspect most will want to find out about Joan of Kent’s younger life and first marriage to Thomas Holland.

This book takes you into her later life with her 2nd marriage to Edward of Woodstock , the sons she bore him one of which was the future King Richard II.

For anyone who loves history this is a must read, the characters are real, the atmosphere of the times beautifully crafted and the locations and wars are all so well written and described.

[Luisa Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting take on the life of the woman known to history as Joan of Kent, and her marriage to Edward the Black Prince. I hadn’t read the previous book in the series, but that didn’t get in the way of my enjoyment.
The book seemed well researched, as I’d expect from an author of this calibre. Quite a lengthy read, but easy to follow. 3.5 stars for me as I was interested but didn’t really feel emotionally invested in the characters.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Kayla Marie · Rating 3 out of 5]

The characters felt really surface-level in this one. Jeanette seemed like a completely different person. I understand she's matured, but there still has to be a little rebel left in there, right? She just felt like any other generic Queen, & definitely no comparison to Chadwick's unforgettable Eleanor of Aquitaine. I'll still pick up a Chadwick novel in the future. Even if all the historical events can kind of blur together for me in her books, I always leave her works having learned something.

[Christine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Historically speaking, this novel is very interesting and follows real facts adequately. However, I found the characters not really convincing, a bit too flat. I don't think they reflected their real personalities as they appear a bit too romantic. Overall, an interesting easy read.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.

[Dick R. McCart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent as always

Now I want to know what happens to the young King Richard, Jeanette, and John. I don't have a clue to how Elizabeth does this authoring on this scale. Her details are fine, and she puts her people through hell and heaven. I've read all this author's medieval books and am at a loss without the next one.

[Margaret Wigmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another brilliant book by Elizabeth Chadwick! Her writing really draws you into the period of history and her characters leap of the page. The only reason I didn't give it five stars was because it didn't quite match my absolute favourites by Elizabeth Chadwick - the William Marshal series and the series about Eleanor of Aquitaine.

[Lynne Titus · Rating 5 out of 5]

I waited for this book to be released.

I have long been fascinated by Joan of Kent. This book was hard to put down. I knew of Joan's marriage to Prince Edward, but not her first marriage. Elizabeth Chadwick is an excellent writer. I have just discovered her. I have the Marshall trilogy waiting on Kindle!

[Ashley · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF @ 37%

I love Chadwick’s writing, especially her Eleanor of Aquitaine series. But the characters in the Crownless Queen seemed a little one-note to me. With the exception of Edward III, who was at least forceful and brash, they all seemed to have the same personality. Also in the dialogue, the characters spelled out their exact motivations and desires. No ambiguity, no drama.

[Cel Jel · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a story of the next stage of Jeanette's story. I found myself fascinated by how her sons accepted their step father, and the way the development of the relationship between Jeanette and her second husband. The ending is sad. Well worth the read.

[Margaret Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved reading this book, Elizabeth Chadwick really brought the people to life. Knowing these were real people and real events with fiction to tie everything together made the story really moving bringing out all emotions. Awesome.

[SueAnn Tully · Rating 5 out of 5]

Informative

Not often do I learn about some new information regarding the royal family. So I very much appreciate this book supplying me with some interesting insights about the Royals.

[Suzie Larochelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved, loved, loved The Crownless Queen. Chadwick never disappoints. I'm so looking forward to her next novel about John of Gaunt!!!

[Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it from the first pages. Elizabeth Chadwick makes history come alive for me. I was totally with Jeanette through her emotional rollercoasters.

[Rhona · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this. Lots of historical detail and well-developed characters.

[Sally Archer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read about a very interesting lady