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Countess Jacqueline
For twenty years, Jacqueline van Beieren, sole heir to the countship of Holland, fought against the most powerful male rulers in Europe to retain her title, the freedom of her people and her one true love. Based upon a true story (1413).
After Jacqueline’s arranged marriage to the Prince John of France ends with his suspicious death, she loses her beloved father and inherits the countship of Holland at the young age of sixteen. Determined to reign on her own, she disregards her assembly’s demand to choose a husband and leads her army to victory in their first defensive battle. Yet, she stands in the deadly crosshairs of the all-powerful Duke Philip of Burgundy, who holds a grudge against her and uses every ruthless tactic including trickery to strip her of her title and her crown.
Renard Borselen, Lord of Metz, resents Philip using him as a pawn in his plot to crush Jacqueline’s efforts, but he’s curious to see her again and agrees to meet with the Dutch assembly. As he watches Jacqueline from a distance, he recalls the day they met years ago and a spark of excitement catches him, the first since that day. Against strict orders, he openly shifts his stance.
And while Philip continues his onslaught against them both, Jacqueline’s courage and determination never vacillates.
After Jacqueline’s arranged marriage to the Prince John of France ends with his suspicious death, she loses her beloved father and inherits the countship of Holland at the young age of sixteen. Determined to reign on her own, she disregards her assembly’s demand to choose a husband and leads her army to victory in their first defensive battle. Yet, she stands in the deadly crosshairs of the all-powerful Duke Philip of Burgundy, who holds a grudge against her and uses every ruthless tactic including trickery to strip her of her title and her crown.
Renard Borselen, Lord of Metz, resents Philip using him as a pawn in his plot to crush Jacqueline’s efforts, but he’s curious to see her again and agrees to meet with the Dutch assembly. As he watches Jacqueline from a distance, he recalls the day they met years ago and a spark of excitement catches him, the first since that day. Against strict orders, he openly shifts his stance.
And while Philip continues his onslaught against them both, Jacqueline’s courage and determination never vacillates.
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First published September 8, 2019
5 people are currently reading
18 people want to read
About the author
Gail Meath
21 books301 followersGail Meath is the author of the multi-award-winning Jax Diamond Mysteries, a fun 1920s series about wise-cracking PI Jax Diamond, his courageous German Shepherd partner, Ace, and Broadway star Laura Graystone, as they, along with a crazy group of friends, solve some of the toughest crimes in New York City. She is alternating that series with her new 1930s Golden Age of Hollywood mysteries series, Stone & Steele, starring Vivian Steele, a widow seeking justice, and Preston Stone, a playboy vigilante. As always, she blends the most lovable characters with a good, solid mystery.
Gail also has a list of other award-winning historical romances, westerns, and fictional biographies of true heroines. She lives in a small village in Upstate New York with her husband and their sweet Boston Terrier, and she spends loads of time with her grandchildren. Connect with Gail at www.gailmeath.com or Facebook @GailMeathAuthor.
Gail also has a list of other award-winning historical romances, westerns, and fictional biographies of true heroines. She lives in a small village in Upstate New York with her husband and their sweet Boston Terrier, and she spends loads of time with her grandchildren. Connect with Gail at www.gailmeath.com or Facebook @GailMeathAuthor.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
December 28, 2020
Countess Jacqueline by Gail Meath is a historical romance based upon the life of the real Countess Jacqueline of Holland, who ruled the counties of Holland, Zeeland, and Hainut in the Low Countries (Netherlands) from 1417 to 1433. The book opens with Jacqueline as a young girl whose father is already trying to arrange her marriage to secure his kingdom. Fiercely independent and an excellent horsewoman and archer, she resists marriage as long as she can. After the death of her father, politics come into play as another heir demands her title and her lands. Jacqueline fights for her lands and her people, making mistakes along the way, and possibly finding the love of her life.
This is a very well written novel by Gail Meath, who weaves together a captivating story by combining both real and fictional characters to create a spellbinding saga. The true story of Jacqueline’s life, battles, marriages, love and dedication to her people is amazing, and Meath expertly adds perfectly placed characters and storylines. She brings the Countess, the politics, and the way of life in that era alive on the page. Her meticulous research is obvious.
I downloaded a copy of this book on Kindle Unlimited, where members can read it for free.
This is a very well written novel by Gail Meath, who weaves together a captivating story by combining both real and fictional characters to create a spellbinding saga. The true story of Jacqueline’s life, battles, marriages, love and dedication to her people is amazing, and Meath expertly adds perfectly placed characters and storylines. She brings the Countess, the politics, and the way of life in that era alive on the page. Her meticulous research is obvious.
I downloaded a copy of this book on Kindle Unlimited, where members can read it for free.
April 25, 2021
This is a beautifully written historical fiction and non fiction novel. Countess Jacqueline is a captivating read. Gail has perfectly captured the era. She is a gifted writer matched by her research skills.
April 6, 2021
A hidden heroine of history!
They say all is fair in love and war and then one only death do you part and in the other death declares the Victor. When countess Jacquelynes father dies she becomes the rightful leader OK country she is most proud of. Only our uncle thinks it should be ruled by the next Mail heir. This will be the Countess his first foray into battle and she does it honorably. If only she could love the same way Renard there’s a night you later becomes a law that she met when she was a child. They had an instant friendship and upon their first meeting a secret place. Not for anything on towards but for making wishes come true. It isn’t until later when she is made to marry the heir to the kingdom of France John, and he marries The mother of his first child and eventually the crazy lady who lives on the top floor. He tries his best to keep her safe but it doesn’t always work. Unbeknownst to the country men and women as they think she is dead. He knows if not for her there may be a chance he could go an ass for Jack or lines hand in marriage. Unless this is not to be at least not at first. This is a wonderful book and one that I love. Gail Meaf has quickly become my favorite historical fiction writer and I am quickly going through her catalog, but it will be a bittersweet moment when I read the last word. So please if you’re reading this please keep writing quickly I don’t have many left. I love this book and highly recommend it! If you love historical Romance with accurate historical detail then you’ll love this book. Even if you don’t care about that accurate historical detail and just want the romance you still love this book. I can’t get enough of her books and I could continue on and on about how great this one is but don’t want to bore you. The end.
They say all is fair in love and war and then one only death do you part and in the other death declares the Victor. When countess Jacquelynes father dies she becomes the rightful leader OK country she is most proud of. Only our uncle thinks it should be ruled by the next Mail heir. This will be the Countess his first foray into battle and she does it honorably. If only she could love the same way Renard there’s a night you later becomes a law that she met when she was a child. They had an instant friendship and upon their first meeting a secret place. Not for anything on towards but for making wishes come true. It isn’t until later when she is made to marry the heir to the kingdom of France John, and he marries The mother of his first child and eventually the crazy lady who lives on the top floor. He tries his best to keep her safe but it doesn’t always work. Unbeknownst to the country men and women as they think she is dead. He knows if not for her there may be a chance he could go an ass for Jack or lines hand in marriage. Unless this is not to be at least not at first. This is a wonderful book and one that I love. Gail Meaf has quickly become my favorite historical fiction writer and I am quickly going through her catalog, but it will be a bittersweet moment when I read the last word. So please if you’re reading this please keep writing quickly I don’t have many left. I love this book and highly recommend it! If you love historical Romance with accurate historical detail then you’ll love this book. Even if you don’t care about that accurate historical detail and just want the romance you still love this book. I can’t get enough of her books and I could continue on and on about how great this one is but don’t want to bore you. The end.
September 20, 2022
Love Is Treacherous for Nobility
This novel is yet another fabulous work of historical fiction. I am compelled to find out more about this countess. I loved Jacqueline’s spirit and the fact that she inspired so many to stand alongside her.
This novel is yet another fabulous work of historical fiction. I am compelled to find out more about this countess. I loved Jacqueline’s spirit and the fact that she inspired so many to stand alongside her.
July 31, 2020
Countess Jacqueline’s story was riveting from the start. I was thoroughly captivated and walked away with knowledge of and interest in one of history’s lesser-known female rulers. This story will be perfect for lovers of historical fiction who want to glimpse an interesting, heartwarming, and exciting story about one of history’s better kept secrets. With a romance that will make you believe in true love.
Gail Meath wove an intricate, fast paced, educating, and action and intrigue packed novel sure to keep readers flipping to the next page.
My only regret is that the book was far too short! I could live in Countess Jacqueline’s world forever.
Spoilers (sort of)
As I read all of the hurdles that Jacqueline and her follows faced to earn their independence I found myself angry for how much hardship they endured. And I felt powerless knowing that the true Jacqueline, in her time, suffered many of the same horrible things as the book’s fierce heroine. I could not be mad at the author for putting dear Jacqueline through these things, but must be angry at history. But as Jacqueline’s faithful Hollanders did, I stood by her as I read through her hardships and cheered her on, hoping for her success.
And I did a bit of swooning with her for dashing Renard, whom I immediately fell in love with. His devotion to her was truly inspiring and his love of her people even more so.
Gail Meath wove an intricate, fast paced, educating, and action and intrigue packed novel sure to keep readers flipping to the next page.
My only regret is that the book was far too short! I could live in Countess Jacqueline’s world forever.
Spoilers (sort of)
As I read all of the hurdles that Jacqueline and her follows faced to earn their independence I found myself angry for how much hardship they endured. And I felt powerless knowing that the true Jacqueline, in her time, suffered many of the same horrible things as the book’s fierce heroine. I could not be mad at the author for putting dear Jacqueline through these things, but must be angry at history. But as Jacqueline’s faithful Hollanders did, I stood by her as I read through her hardships and cheered her on, hoping for her success.
And I did a bit of swooning with her for dashing Renard, whom I immediately fell in love with. His devotion to her was truly inspiring and his love of her people even more so.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 22, 2022
Inspiring and Infuriating
Historical fiction has always been my favorite literary genre because it is such a painless way of absorbing information. This book is so well-written and flows easily which isn't easy when the subject lived in the 15th century. Countess Jacqueline was an astounding woman who fought for the right of Holland to exist yet her life is barely acknowledged or even remembered. Why? Gender. Had she been a man, she'd be held up as the standard for those who lead. This story perfectly highlights how toxic masculinity thrives and the damage it has done. It's infuriating that in the most important ways, not much has changed. Countess Jacqueline should be an inspiration and her life was worthy of being celebrated. I highly recommend this book.
Historical fiction has always been my favorite literary genre because it is such a painless way of absorbing information. This book is so well-written and flows easily which isn't easy when the subject lived in the 15th century. Countess Jacqueline was an astounding woman who fought for the right of Holland to exist yet her life is barely acknowledged or even remembered. Why? Gender. Had she been a man, she'd be held up as the standard for those who lead. This story perfectly highlights how toxic masculinity thrives and the damage it has done. It's infuriating that in the most important ways, not much has changed. Countess Jacqueline should be an inspiration and her life was worthy of being celebrated. I highly recommend this book.
May 23, 2021
Reviewed By Grant Leishman for READER'S FAVORITE
As a lover of historical fiction and especially fiction based around true events and characters, I absolutely gobbled up this fantastic adventure that is Countess Jacqueline. Gail Meath takes us right into the epicenter of northern European politics and royal intrigue in the Middle Ages.
So much has been written and read (by me) of English royalty of the time, it was incredibly refreshing to see the period described by these “minor royals” of Europe. Their intrigues and battles were no less interesting than those of the Tudors or Plantagenets.
The two main characters, Jacqueline and Renard, were beautifully drawn and compelling, as was the obvious attraction and love between the pair. Jacqueline, especially, was so appealing as a strong, independent, and powerful woman of her time torn between the love of country and her love for Renard. Not without her faults, I loved that she often acted impulsively and suffered the consequences of those actions. The author drew her as a wonderful, compassionate leader, although far too headstrong for her own good at times. The fact that she was a real leader from the annals of history just made this narrative all the more compelling to read.
The romance, the battles, the spies, the treachery were all fascinating and combined to make this one of the most enjoyable books I have read of late. I love it when I find a new author that absolutely zings with me and I will definitely be checking out other works from this talented wordsmith. A joy to read and a book I can highly recommend.
As a lover of historical fiction and especially fiction based around true events and characters, I absolutely gobbled up this fantastic adventure that is Countess Jacqueline. Gail Meath takes us right into the epicenter of northern European politics and royal intrigue in the Middle Ages.
So much has been written and read (by me) of English royalty of the time, it was incredibly refreshing to see the period described by these “minor royals” of Europe. Their intrigues and battles were no less interesting than those of the Tudors or Plantagenets.
The two main characters, Jacqueline and Renard, were beautifully drawn and compelling, as was the obvious attraction and love between the pair. Jacqueline, especially, was so appealing as a strong, independent, and powerful woman of her time torn between the love of country and her love for Renard. Not without her faults, I loved that she often acted impulsively and suffered the consequences of those actions. The author drew her as a wonderful, compassionate leader, although far too headstrong for her own good at times. The fact that she was a real leader from the annals of history just made this narrative all the more compelling to read.
The romance, the battles, the spies, the treachery were all fascinating and combined to make this one of the most enjoyable books I have read of late. I love it when I find a new author that absolutely zings with me and I will definitely be checking out other works from this talented wordsmith. A joy to read and a book I can highly recommend.
September 1, 2020
Jacqueline is young, relentless and always ready to do anything for her people and country. She inherits countship of Holland at a very young age after her father's death.
Despite the assembly's suggestions and demands for her to get married before she rules, she proved it she is no less than a man by leading her army to victory in the first instant itself.
Renard Borselen, Lord of Metz is a friend of Duke Philip, who holds a grudge on Jacqueline. Renard was impressed with her attitude and her love for the country when they met for the first time. He tries to help and protect her from the plots of Philip.
But Jacqueline can't trust in him blindly as he is from the enemy group. She has to let go of her feelings and become strong for her people. What will Jacqueline do? How long can she take up this fight alone?
It was an absolute delight reading this book. The author's writing skill is brilliant and the characters are developed really well. And the cover is too beautiful. The author used true events to engage the readers till the end.
I loved Jacqueline's character so much. She is such a bold and courageous young lady who never let others tak control of her life. The twists and turns in the story when you least expect it makes the read more enjoyable.
I totally enjoyed reading this book and I recommend it to all historical fiction lovers who enjoys a romantic touch to it.
I would love to read more books from Gail Meath.
Disclaimer : I received free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Despite the assembly's suggestions and demands for her to get married before she rules, she proved it she is no less than a man by leading her army to victory in the first instant itself.
Renard Borselen, Lord of Metz is a friend of Duke Philip, who holds a grudge on Jacqueline. Renard was impressed with her attitude and her love for the country when they met for the first time. He tries to help and protect her from the plots of Philip.
But Jacqueline can't trust in him blindly as he is from the enemy group. She has to let go of her feelings and become strong for her people. What will Jacqueline do? How long can she take up this fight alone?
It was an absolute delight reading this book. The author's writing skill is brilliant and the characters are developed really well. And the cover is too beautiful. The author used true events to engage the readers till the end.
I loved Jacqueline's character so much. She is such a bold and courageous young lady who never let others tak control of her life. The twists and turns in the story when you least expect it makes the read more enjoyable.
I totally enjoyed reading this book and I recommend it to all historical fiction lovers who enjoys a romantic touch to it.
I would love to read more books from Gail Meath.
Disclaimer : I received free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 21, 2020
I read this book more for its historical tag then its romantic one, which I approached somewhat warily. I have always taken an interest in history of most periods and yet could not recall having heard of Jacqueline, Countess of Holland before (not that I know much about Dutch history). I purposely avoided reading anything else about this heroine before finishing the book.
As the main characters were introduced over the first few pages I worried that the story might be a bit too trite and romantic for my tastes. However I am glad that I persevered. This story was an easy and entertaining read moving at a steady pace with romance balanced by the intrigues of medieval courts and the action of battles. It did not descend into overlong descriptions but still explained the background to the story.
Overall an enjoyable read.
As the main characters were introduced over the first few pages I worried that the story might be a bit too trite and romantic for my tastes. However I am glad that I persevered. This story was an easy and entertaining read moving at a steady pace with romance balanced by the intrigues of medieval courts and the action of battles. It did not descend into overlong descriptions but still explained the background to the story.
Overall an enjoyable read.
February 2, 2020
Another great book by Gail Meath! I love that her female characters are strong leaders with warrior spirits. I highly recommend this book.
February 26, 2020
Countess Jacqueline
Reviewed in the United States on February 26, 2020
Format: Kindle Edition
Countess Jacqueline, a real person in the 1400s.
Jacqueline has a story of her own to tell, she is a loyal ruler of her homeland, giving up her own needs in life to serve her country.
Jacqueline is a strong lady, who will not allow others to walk on her.
It's a romantic historical, its been very well written.
I could not put it down, it just was not long enough.
I recommend this book, to readers that like a medieval setting.
Thank you for your review.
🇦🇺
Reviewed in the United States on February 26, 2020
Format: Kindle Edition
Countess Jacqueline, a real person in the 1400s.
Jacqueline has a story of her own to tell, she is a loyal ruler of her homeland, giving up her own needs in life to serve her country.
Jacqueline is a strong lady, who will not allow others to walk on her.
It's a romantic historical, its been very well written.
I could not put it down, it just was not long enough.
I recommend this book, to readers that like a medieval setting.
Thank you for your review.
🇦🇺
July 19, 2020
I absolutely loved the book. The characters were inspiring people. The romance was beautiful. The issues that affected so many lives for the worse by the injustices against women and the political and power games played by royalty took me right back in history. Well written story highlighting the era and power struggles.
April 22, 2020
Gail Meath creates wonderful historical novels that capture the essence of the time; she masterfully interweaves her fictitious characters with historical figures and events to create a perfect picture of what was happening at that time.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews