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The Kingdom of Naples #2
The Girl Who Tempted Fortune
In the royal courts of medieval Europe, where aristocrats vie for power and royal cousins battle over crowns, is it possible for the lowly daughter of a fisherman to dream of becoming mother to a monarch?
Impossible!
Yet Philippa of Catania, the daughter of a Sicilian fisherman, risks everything to ride the wheel of fortune to the dizzying heights of power. And in the most enlightened kingdom of all Christendom, the 14th Century court of King Robert the Wise and his beautiful and brilliant heir, Queen Joanna 1 of Naples, it might not be so impossible after all.
Arriving alone and friendless in the Kingdom of Naples with only her wits, beauty and native intelligence to guide her, she forges allies and finds a love she never expected, as well as enemies who will stop at nothing to destroy her. Follow the story of Philippa of Catania as she defies the limits of birth and station on an unbelievable yet true journey to the heights of power and wealth in 14th Century Italy.
Written by award-winning author Jane Ann McLachlan, this stand-alone novel is the second book in the Kingdom of Naples series, which began with The Girl Who Would Be Queen.
Impossible!
Yet Philippa of Catania, the daughter of a Sicilian fisherman, risks everything to ride the wheel of fortune to the dizzying heights of power. And in the most enlightened kingdom of all Christendom, the 14th Century court of King Robert the Wise and his beautiful and brilliant heir, Queen Joanna 1 of Naples, it might not be so impossible after all.
Arriving alone and friendless in the Kingdom of Naples with only her wits, beauty and native intelligence to guide her, she forges allies and finds a love she never expected, as well as enemies who will stop at nothing to destroy her. Follow the story of Philippa of Catania as she defies the limits of birth and station on an unbelievable yet true journey to the heights of power and wealth in 14th Century Italy.
Written by award-winning author Jane Ann McLachlan, this stand-alone novel is the second book in the Kingdom of Naples series, which began with The Girl Who Would Be Queen.
- GenresHistorical FictionItaly
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 3, 2020
213 people are currently reading
71 people want to read
About the author
Jane Ann McLachlan
14 books18 followersAlso known as J. A. McLachlan.
Jane Ann McLachlan was born in Toronto, Canada. She started writing stories when she was five years old, and has been reading literary fiction, science fiction and historical fiction in equal measure all her life. She received her B.A. in English Literature from York University and her M.A. in Canadian Literature from Carleton University. Before becoming a full-time writer she taught at Conestoga College.
Jane Ann McLachlan was born in Toronto, Canada. She started writing stories when she was five years old, and has been reading literary fiction, science fiction and historical fiction in equal measure all her life. She received her B.A. in English Literature from York University and her M.A. in Canadian Literature from Carleton University. Before becoming a full-time writer she taught at Conestoga College.
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February 27, 2020
This book tells the story of Philippa of Catania during 2 decisive episodes of her life. From 1298 to 1301 when she became the wet-nurse of baby Charles and during the last months of her life from march till December 1346. Both periods are told alternatingly.
What do we actually have as ready or common knowledge about this period? Not an awful lot as far as I’m concerned, I have to think hard about my schooldays to think of anything at all. Early 14th century was the start of the renaissance, mid-century the black death raged over the whole of Europe and it was also the start of the 100-year war between France and England. In what now is Italy, the city-states were often waging war on one other, with Naples, Sicily, Venice and the Papal State as main players. And of course, there was the famous artist Boccaccio who’s Decamerone plays during a pestilence outbreak. But that he knew Philippa in person and dedicated a whole chapter to her in his famous history book is also new to me.
In 1298 prince Robert of Anjou, later to be the notorious king Robert the wise of Naples, went on a campaign to reclaim Sicily for his father. His wife, the princess Violante accompanied him on this endeavour, despite being in the final stage of her pregnancy. When she gives birth to her son Charles, a wet-nurse is needed. The local midwife manoeuvres her own daughter the 14-year-old Philippa into that position, falsely claiming that her husband and baby son both have died. It’s a life-altering moment because the war is lost not long after and the wet-nurse is taken back home by the royal couple. She soon learns that the politics of the servant quarters are just as sly, backstabbing and cruel as those played out in the court itself. In a foreign city, without any friends or means, she must make the princess think of her as irreplaceable. She ascends in this society to the level of the personal maid to the princess until she marries.
She keeps rising in rank and becomes first the advisor to King Robert’s second wife and later she becomes first counsel of his granddaughter and chosen heir Joanna. In 1346, a few months after the murder of Queen Joanna’s husband prince Andrew, the city of Naples is in complete turmoil. Two of her cousins challenge her rule with their private armies raising havoc in the city, while the loyalty of her new fiancée Louis doesn’t stretch further than his own self-interest of becoming king. Philippa is the oldest, most trusted advisor of the queen, who’s raised by her. But the rise to power of a fisherman’s daughter doesn’t happen without making enemies as well as those trying to weaken Joanna by targeting those closest to her and most important her privy council. Raymond, Philippa's youngest son is the first one to be sacrificed to the cousins for alleged regicide.
The stories are told in alternating chapters. Sometimes that adds to the story arc, but I think they might have been told consecutively just as well, maybe even better. It’s a sign of the times to make things look more complicated than they are or need to be by pouring a ‘literary sauce’ over a perfectly good book. To stick with the metaphor, a sauce can add flavour but it can also mask a certain blandness (what’s not the case here, it’s just unnecessary).
It’s an exciting and suspenseful story, at times so unbelievable that you forget that nearly everything in this book did really occur. Almost every character in the story is a real historical figure just as the events are authentic. Apart from the poetic liberties taken when recording conversations or feelings, the occurrences themselves -tragic as they are- did take place as they’re written down. The author must have done tons of research in diaries, official documents and letters to create such a tight-knit report of a historical place and time about which most of us know little or nothing.
I couldn’t help myself but google a few names and the history of the facts are there plain and visible for all. You don’t have to read this book to know what happens to this or that character as it’s (not all that) common knowledge. No, the value of this book is the love and care that’s given to make these historical figures into real-life characters that one can love or hate, feel sorry for and share their sadness, joy and fears. Even when you know how things will play out for Joanna’s family, it remains a sad and tragic ending. Actually, the story could have done with a bit more fictional scenes to liven it up a bit because sometimes it a bit dry history. But I understand that the writer chose for accuracy over sentiment and imagination.
These were tumultuous times. The author picked a difficult and treacherous era. I’m surprised how much evidence of the conspiracies, of shifting alliances that might alter between breakfast and lunch or about the treachery of coveted and open warfare has survived the passing of centuries. Really, hats off for the research this woman has done in order to write such an accurate version of events. This may be fiction but it’s certainly not fantasy! This was almost 600 years ago but it doesn’t look as if we, as humanity, have learned much from our past mistakes and wrongdoings.
I thank the author for a free ARC, but this is my own honest and unbiased opinion.
What do we actually have as ready or common knowledge about this period? Not an awful lot as far as I’m concerned, I have to think hard about my schooldays to think of anything at all. Early 14th century was the start of the renaissance, mid-century the black death raged over the whole of Europe and it was also the start of the 100-year war between France and England. In what now is Italy, the city-states were often waging war on one other, with Naples, Sicily, Venice and the Papal State as main players. And of course, there was the famous artist Boccaccio who’s Decamerone plays during a pestilence outbreak. But that he knew Philippa in person and dedicated a whole chapter to her in his famous history book is also new to me.
In 1298 prince Robert of Anjou, later to be the notorious king Robert the wise of Naples, went on a campaign to reclaim Sicily for his father. His wife, the princess Violante accompanied him on this endeavour, despite being in the final stage of her pregnancy. When she gives birth to her son Charles, a wet-nurse is needed. The local midwife manoeuvres her own daughter the 14-year-old Philippa into that position, falsely claiming that her husband and baby son both have died. It’s a life-altering moment because the war is lost not long after and the wet-nurse is taken back home by the royal couple. She soon learns that the politics of the servant quarters are just as sly, backstabbing and cruel as those played out in the court itself. In a foreign city, without any friends or means, she must make the princess think of her as irreplaceable. She ascends in this society to the level of the personal maid to the princess until she marries.
She keeps rising in rank and becomes first the advisor to King Robert’s second wife and later she becomes first counsel of his granddaughter and chosen heir Joanna. In 1346, a few months after the murder of Queen Joanna’s husband prince Andrew, the city of Naples is in complete turmoil. Two of her cousins challenge her rule with their private armies raising havoc in the city, while the loyalty of her new fiancée Louis doesn’t stretch further than his own self-interest of becoming king. Philippa is the oldest, most trusted advisor of the queen, who’s raised by her. But the rise to power of a fisherman’s daughter doesn’t happen without making enemies as well as those trying to weaken Joanna by targeting those closest to her and most important her privy council. Raymond, Philippa's youngest son is the first one to be sacrificed to the cousins for alleged regicide.
The stories are told in alternating chapters. Sometimes that adds to the story arc, but I think they might have been told consecutively just as well, maybe even better. It’s a sign of the times to make things look more complicated than they are or need to be by pouring a ‘literary sauce’ over a perfectly good book. To stick with the metaphor, a sauce can add flavour but it can also mask a certain blandness (what’s not the case here, it’s just unnecessary).
It’s an exciting and suspenseful story, at times so unbelievable that you forget that nearly everything in this book did really occur. Almost every character in the story is a real historical figure just as the events are authentic. Apart from the poetic liberties taken when recording conversations or feelings, the occurrences themselves -tragic as they are- did take place as they’re written down. The author must have done tons of research in diaries, official documents and letters to create such a tight-knit report of a historical place and time about which most of us know little or nothing.
I couldn’t help myself but google a few names and the history of the facts are there plain and visible for all. You don’t have to read this book to know what happens to this or that character as it’s (not all that) common knowledge. No, the value of this book is the love and care that’s given to make these historical figures into real-life characters that one can love or hate, feel sorry for and share their sadness, joy and fears. Even when you know how things will play out for Joanna’s family, it remains a sad and tragic ending. Actually, the story could have done with a bit more fictional scenes to liven it up a bit because sometimes it a bit dry history. But I understand that the writer chose for accuracy over sentiment and imagination.
These were tumultuous times. The author picked a difficult and treacherous era. I’m surprised how much evidence of the conspiracies, of shifting alliances that might alter between breakfast and lunch or about the treachery of coveted and open warfare has survived the passing of centuries. Really, hats off for the research this woman has done in order to write such an accurate version of events. This may be fiction but it’s certainly not fantasy! This was almost 600 years ago but it doesn’t look as if we, as humanity, have learned much from our past mistakes and wrongdoings.
I thank the author for a free ARC, but this is my own honest and unbiased opinion.
February 20, 2020
Wow, is all I could say. A lowly fisherman’s daughter dreams of being Mother to a Monarch. Who knows if that could happen. I was totally lost in the book. Fantastic. Don’t miss out once it’s released.
March 30, 2020
Jane Ann McLaughlan The Girl Who Tempted Fortune (Kingdom of Naples) 4.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Profoundly moving and unbelievable true historical accounts of Philippe of Catania’s and her journey through social racism, devastating loss, deceit, secrets, betrayal, war, love, and loss through her rise in station to become the mother of a queen in 14th Century Naples, Italy. This intense and emotionally heart wrenching story is a excellent must read for all historical medieval lovers.
Content: Adult content with some explicit description of tortures and death. No sexual accounts.
Profoundly moving and unbelievable true historical accounts of Philippe of Catania’s and her journey through social racism, devastating loss, deceit, secrets, betrayal, war, love, and loss through her rise in station to become the mother of a queen in 14th Century Naples, Italy. This intense and emotionally heart wrenching story is a excellent must read for all historical medieval lovers.
Content: Adult content with some explicit description of tortures and death. No sexual accounts.
March 4, 2020
Jane Ann McLachlan's new historical novel 'The Girl Who Tempted Fortune', is set in the Kingdom of Naples in the 14th century. A time of wars, political intrigue and a fight for positions.
"In the royal courts of medieval Europe, where aristocrats vie for power and royal cousins battle over crowns, is it possible for the lowly daughter of a fisherman to dream of becoming mother to a monarch?
Impossible!
Yet Philippa of Catania, the daughter of a Sicilian fisherman, risks everything to ride the wheel of fortune to the dizzying heights of power. And in the most enlightened kingdom of all Christendom, the 14th Century court of King Robert the Wise and his beautiful and brilliant heir, Queen Joanna 1 of Naples, it might not be so impossible after all.
Follow the real story of Philippa of Catania as she defies the limits of birth and station on an unbelievable yet true journey to the heights of power and wealth in 14th Century Italy."
If it had not been for the prophecy her great grandmother once told, Philippa's mother might not have seen an opportunity for her to get away from her poor life. "This girl will travel far from home and rise high above her station. She will be mother to a queen - ...". In 1298, prince Robert of Anjou is in Sicily to conquer the island for the Kingdom of Naples. His wife, princess Violante, accompanies her husband although she is pregnant. Once the labour starts, the local mid-wife, Philippa's mother, takes Philippa with her to help with the important birth. Philippa is hired as wet nurse to the child, Charles. She is herself a young mother and married to an older man. The course she has entered will take her away from her family and Sicily for a new life at the court of the king of Naples.
Philippa's story and events are told in different time frames; between autumn 1298 to summer 1302, and March to October 1346. The former years tell the story of Philippa's new life, her sorrows, her ambitions and her life dependent on the whim of royal people. The final year is told as present day, and related to the terrible events that is occurring. Under the strain of the situation, Philippa is looking back on her life, how it developed, and what was really the meaning of the prophecy.
I am not always fond of stories going back and forth. However, in this story it works perfectly. It adds another perspective to the story. As you read what is happening in 1346, the beginning of the story unfolds, and it does not take away any of the suspense. On the contrary. As times turn bad in the city, so does the situation for Philippa and her family. Imprisonment and torture were standards in those days, and Ms McLachlan does not shy away from describing the good and the bad times.
I think that is what makes this such an excellent and interesting novel. There is history, a little bit of romance and politics, but above all the nitty gritty dealings of the day. It brings the real world into the story, which I found very thrilling. Making a check on the real history, I found that Ms McLachlan has obviously done a lot of research, and treated the facts with respect. All through the story she brings in various real life characters, making history alive, taking you to the Naples of the day. Above all, she has written an interesting account of a fantastic woman, who rose above her station. What a life she led, and what an ending. Wonderfully, written novel and highly recommended.
This is the second book of the Kingdom of Naples series. The first book is: The Girl Who Would Be Queen. Each of the books can be read separately.
"In the royal courts of medieval Europe, where aristocrats vie for power and royal cousins battle over crowns, is it possible for the lowly daughter of a fisherman to dream of becoming mother to a monarch?
Impossible!
Yet Philippa of Catania, the daughter of a Sicilian fisherman, risks everything to ride the wheel of fortune to the dizzying heights of power. And in the most enlightened kingdom of all Christendom, the 14th Century court of King Robert the Wise and his beautiful and brilliant heir, Queen Joanna 1 of Naples, it might not be so impossible after all.
Follow the real story of Philippa of Catania as she defies the limits of birth and station on an unbelievable yet true journey to the heights of power and wealth in 14th Century Italy."
If it had not been for the prophecy her great grandmother once told, Philippa's mother might not have seen an opportunity for her to get away from her poor life. "This girl will travel far from home and rise high above her station. She will be mother to a queen - ...". In 1298, prince Robert of Anjou is in Sicily to conquer the island for the Kingdom of Naples. His wife, princess Violante, accompanies her husband although she is pregnant. Once the labour starts, the local mid-wife, Philippa's mother, takes Philippa with her to help with the important birth. Philippa is hired as wet nurse to the child, Charles. She is herself a young mother and married to an older man. The course she has entered will take her away from her family and Sicily for a new life at the court of the king of Naples.
Philippa's story and events are told in different time frames; between autumn 1298 to summer 1302, and March to October 1346. The former years tell the story of Philippa's new life, her sorrows, her ambitions and her life dependent on the whim of royal people. The final year is told as present day, and related to the terrible events that is occurring. Under the strain of the situation, Philippa is looking back on her life, how it developed, and what was really the meaning of the prophecy.
I am not always fond of stories going back and forth. However, in this story it works perfectly. It adds another perspective to the story. As you read what is happening in 1346, the beginning of the story unfolds, and it does not take away any of the suspense. On the contrary. As times turn bad in the city, so does the situation for Philippa and her family. Imprisonment and torture were standards in those days, and Ms McLachlan does not shy away from describing the good and the bad times.
I think that is what makes this such an excellent and interesting novel. There is history, a little bit of romance and politics, but above all the nitty gritty dealings of the day. It brings the real world into the story, which I found very thrilling. Making a check on the real history, I found that Ms McLachlan has obviously done a lot of research, and treated the facts with respect. All through the story she brings in various real life characters, making history alive, taking you to the Naples of the day. Above all, she has written an interesting account of a fantastic woman, who rose above her station. What a life she led, and what an ending. Wonderfully, written novel and highly recommended.
This is the second book of the Kingdom of Naples series. The first book is: The Girl Who Would Be Queen. Each of the books can be read separately.
March 10, 2020
No one does Historical Fiction like Jane Ann McLachlan! She “paints a vivid story of life in the 14th century.” (taken from my review of The Girl Who Would be Queen, 30 April 2019, https://robinsnest212.wordpress.com/2... )
The gritty, grueling reality of life in the 14th century. Rigid class lines, crossing them unthinkable. And yet many tried. Many failed and few succeeded. Philippa of Catania was one such. What it cost her this reader cannot fathom; nor the life she abandoned, so base and mean.
We live in an era and a culture that encourages rising above our lot in life, bettering ourselves, cheers our accomplishments; it’s hard to fathom being barred from higher education, reaching for the stars, being the best we can be.
With every turn, as Philippa’s good fortune increased, as favor seemed to smile on her, a piece of her was lost. I wanted to cry out against the injustice, I wept at trade off she made.
I was rather enamored of Raymond, his attention and affection for Philippa, as he, too, found favor and rose above his origins. His devotion to Philippa enviable and coveted, the stuff of romance and fairy tales.
The fact that this story is true makes it all the more fantastic and compelling.
“Ms. McLachlan’s telling [of this story] was exquisite, her research certainly thorough and impeccable, as conveyed in the details, the colorful descriptions and vivid language. The richness of this story is a luscious, velvet tapestry that wraps you in the richness of it.”
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, The Girl Who Tempted Fortune, Jane Ann McLachlan, The Girl Who Would be Queen
The gritty, grueling reality of life in the 14th century. Rigid class lines, crossing them unthinkable. And yet many tried. Many failed and few succeeded. Philippa of Catania was one such. What it cost her this reader cannot fathom; nor the life she abandoned, so base and mean.
We live in an era and a culture that encourages rising above our lot in life, bettering ourselves, cheers our accomplishments; it’s hard to fathom being barred from higher education, reaching for the stars, being the best we can be.
With every turn, as Philippa’s good fortune increased, as favor seemed to smile on her, a piece of her was lost. I wanted to cry out against the injustice, I wept at trade off she made.
I was rather enamored of Raymond, his attention and affection for Philippa, as he, too, found favor and rose above his origins. His devotion to Philippa enviable and coveted, the stuff of romance and fairy tales.
The fact that this story is true makes it all the more fantastic and compelling.
“Ms. McLachlan’s telling [of this story] was exquisite, her research certainly thorough and impeccable, as conveyed in the details, the colorful descriptions and vivid language. The richness of this story is a luscious, velvet tapestry that wraps you in the richness of it.”
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, The Girl Who Tempted Fortune, Jane Ann McLachlan, The Girl Who Would be Queen
March 18, 2021
Jane Ann McLachlan is a new author to me and I’m so happy to have found her. This was a fascinating story of two people who started from humble beginnings and grew to bend the ear of kings and queens.
Philippa of Catania, the daughter of a Sicilian fisherman who rose to prominence under the reign of the 14th Century court of King Robert the Wise and then his beautiful and brilliant heir, Queen Joanna 1 of Naples was an amazing woman. Philippa was married off to Raymond de Campagne, a former slave of Ethiopian origin. As Charles II's favorite and a successful military commander, Raymond had become one of the wealthiest landowners in the Kingdom of Naples.
This was truly a lovely story of two people who rose above their station in life due to their wisdom, intelligence, loyalty, hard work, inner goodness and devotion to their family and King and Queen. This was a story of love respect and devotion that Phillipa and Raymond had one for another. The characters are richly developed, fascinating people with flaws, secrets and amazing depth.
An exquisitely written, beautifully told story so rich in historical detail, a moving story of the power of human endurance. The authors wonderful prose enveloped me until I became one with the story. Written in alternating timelines, woven together seamlessly, this story will both captivate and engage you. Truly a story to be enjoyed time and again.
Thank you so much Ms. McLachlan For such an engrossing, spellbinding story that encouraged me to look for more information on this incredible woman.
Philippa of Catania, the daughter of a Sicilian fisherman who rose to prominence under the reign of the 14th Century court of King Robert the Wise and then his beautiful and brilliant heir, Queen Joanna 1 of Naples was an amazing woman. Philippa was married off to Raymond de Campagne, a former slave of Ethiopian origin. As Charles II's favorite and a successful military commander, Raymond had become one of the wealthiest landowners in the Kingdom of Naples.
This was truly a lovely story of two people who rose above their station in life due to their wisdom, intelligence, loyalty, hard work, inner goodness and devotion to their family and King and Queen. This was a story of love respect and devotion that Phillipa and Raymond had one for another. The characters are richly developed, fascinating people with flaws, secrets and amazing depth.
An exquisitely written, beautifully told story so rich in historical detail, a moving story of the power of human endurance. The authors wonderful prose enveloped me until I became one with the story. Written in alternating timelines, woven together seamlessly, this story will both captivate and engage you. Truly a story to be enjoyed time and again.
Thank you so much Ms. McLachlan For such an engrossing, spellbinding story that encouraged me to look for more information on this incredible woman.
March 3, 2020
If you love medieval history this is for you.
If you love the trials and tribulations of a Royal Court this is for you.
If you love hearing how politics, greed, ambition and religion affected people in Italy in 14 Century then this is for you
If you love to hear how the underdog, low born, different nationalities rise up then this is for you.
In my own honest opinion, the writing in this novel is superb. It is the second in a series of this time period, the rise and fall of a royal house in Naples, Italy, how the vying factions cheat, lie, torture and kill to rise up the ranks. Superstition, religion, politics are in every aspect of life of these people but the author does not make it boring but rather we read and feel how lives are affected.
We follow the life of Philippa, a young girl whose grandmother told a prophesy of her rise and demise. The story intertwines with her young life and her life as a grandmother.
All the scenes are well set, well described so that you can almost feel and smell and touch the emotions of people involved in the storyline.
Some chapters had me almost gasping, some had me shocked, some had me sleepless as I wanted to find out what would happen next.
If you love the trials and tribulations of a Royal Court this is for you.
If you love hearing how politics, greed, ambition and religion affected people in Italy in 14 Century then this is for you
If you love to hear how the underdog, low born, different nationalities rise up then this is for you.
In my own honest opinion, the writing in this novel is superb. It is the second in a series of this time period, the rise and fall of a royal house in Naples, Italy, how the vying factions cheat, lie, torture and kill to rise up the ranks. Superstition, religion, politics are in every aspect of life of these people but the author does not make it boring but rather we read and feel how lives are affected.
We follow the life of Philippa, a young girl whose grandmother told a prophesy of her rise and demise. The story intertwines with her young life and her life as a grandmother.
All the scenes are well set, well described so that you can almost feel and smell and touch the emotions of people involved in the storyline.
Some chapters had me almost gasping, some had me shocked, some had me sleepless as I wanted to find out what would happen next.
March 9, 2020
This is the second book I this series,where I found you can read together or alone. The dream is can a poor girl become Queen? This story takes you from helping her mother with a delivery of a princess baby,to nursing this child,to leaving her old life and becoming a Queen,leaving her own son,husband and family behind,will she ever see her family she left behind again? All her life her grandmother told her that this would happen,but who listens to a old woman? If you get confused on who belongs to who and who does what,there is a list of names which helped me! This is a very exciting story of 14 century Kings and Queens who face drama,betrayal, wars and family! Such a beautiful believable historical fiction story that will you be wanting more of her writings! I really felt that when I finished not only this book but the other one in this series, you will think you were with these people and you come away knowing them all and facing the emotions that they did and understand the life that they had ruling a kingdom!!
March 28, 2020
The Girl Who Tempted Fortune is fascinating, well-written, meticulously researched, and heart-breaking. Guided by McLachlan’s superlatively crafted narrative, the reader follows the true story of a woman who made a meteoric rise – born the daughter of a Sicilian fisherman, and becoming an important court-advisor in medieval Europe – followed by her tragic fall. Even though the events of the story took place in 14th century Italy, readers will find familiar themes of aspiration, love, political intrigue, and horrific betrayal. Immensely readable, even for those who may not ordinarily choose books about history, readers may be surprised to find that court life centuries ago could be both beautiful and brutal. The Girl Who Tempted Fortune is definitely not for the faint-hearted, but it may stir feelings of gratitude for the mores of current western society. Five stars from this reviewer.
March 4, 2020
Philippa of Cantina is the main character in this book. She rides the wheel of fortune! Her lowly beginnings from a fishing town to the royal court of Naples is told in this story! Her life is quite the adventure! The author told the ending and the beginning of her story simultaneously alternating chapters which was a unique way to tell the story.
I have found that historical novels have a lot to offer the reader. I learned a lot about the time period this book was written about and how the people lived then. Knowing that this book is based on true facts makes it even more of an adventure! Enjoy!!
I received an advanced readers copy and this review is completely my own opinion.
Thank you for your review.
March 4, 2020
I adore how this author writes! She thoroughly researches a topic then weaves her story around the facts. Her characters are very well developed and through their interactions with others in the story we find their true character. I am always distressed about how the women of this time were treated but the main character in this story hangs on to the coattails of others to help her rise in status. She is not even afraid to change horses in mid stream to further herself.
An easy read and an interesting story. This is not dry old history but a shining of a light on a particular period of history
An easy read and an interesting story. This is not dry old history but a shining of a light on a particular period of history
September 20, 2020
I preferred this to the 1st installment although it seemed to end rather abruptly. I know Queen Joanna married twice after her first husband's assassination and would love to see the rest of this saga fleshed out. The story of Philippa and Raymond could have also been expanded a bit. I get how important the imprisonment and torture of them was but it did seem as if most of this book was about getting Philippa married to Raymond and then her family's torture and execution and then it's over, whereas the 1st installment seemed to drag out every single detail, this left an awful lot out. I'd have liked more.
December 2, 2020
Set in Italy in the early 14th century, the story reminds you that these are the same people who would on occasion murder emperors and watch gladiator games - so no reason to think a serving of a little lamb of God is going to take away that blood lust.
Told in two parts, we jump back and forth in the real life Phillipa of Catania, watching her progress going up and down Fortune's Wheel when she was 16 and 60. And she goes dizzyingly high and horribly low, coming from a mud hut to be an advisor to royalty. Well told, keeping you in suspense the whole way in both sections of her life, and the most amazing part being this was all true.
October 18, 2020
A fascinating niche of world history
Mclachlan's historical novels bring the reader to places full of unexpected details of people and places from centuries ago. Raymond and Phlippa's life together was unprecedented during the 14th century and their rise to fame and fortune is a tribute to their intellect, leadership and relationship skills. The family's demise is a result of prejudice and envy and misguided hatred, common traits among humans throughout history. Learning about the Kingdom of Naples has been fascinating and I highly recommend this book.
Mclachlan's historical novels bring the reader to places full of unexpected details of people and places from centuries ago. Raymond and Phlippa's life together was unprecedented during the 14th century and their rise to fame and fortune is a tribute to their intellect, leadership and relationship skills. The family's demise is a result of prejudice and envy and misguided hatred, common traits among humans throughout history. Learning about the Kingdom of Naples has been fascinating and I highly recommend this book.
February 21, 2021
Breathtaking and Captivating
I am so happy I found The Girl Who Tempted Fortune. Ann paints such a beautiful portrait of 15th century Naples, gripped in a power struggle between Queen Joanna, her counsel, mainly her appointed mother Philippa and her family, and her powerful, cruel cousin and his supporters.
Will Philippa and her family survive this fight for power and concede everything she built with her husband?
I am so happy I found The Girl Who Tempted Fortune. Ann paints such a beautiful portrait of 15th century Naples, gripped in a power struggle between Queen Joanna, her counsel, mainly her appointed mother Philippa and her family, and her powerful, cruel cousin and his supporters.
Will Philippa and her family survive this fight for power and concede everything she built with her husband?
March 3, 2020
very interesting story of Phillippa of Catania. You follow her from her life in a fishing village to her life of power and riches. Lots of twists and turns, suspense and power play. Wonderful story of the history of 14th century Italy. If you love history, you will love this book. I enjoyed reading this book and learned so much that I never knew before.
September 28, 2020
Hean38no
A great historical read. Fascinating story of a women rising from peasantry to help rule one of the richest lands in Europe at the time. Of a young Princess trying to rule her country. Of the wars and fighting within the royal family for one of the richest crowns in Europe. Villainy pageantry. I couldn’t put it down. A page turner.
A great historical read. Fascinating story of a women rising from peasantry to help rule one of the richest lands in Europe at the time. Of a young Princess trying to rule her country. Of the wars and fighting within the royal family for one of the richest crowns in Europe. Villainy pageantry. I couldn’t put it down. A page turner.
February 26, 2021
A really well-told story about a historical figure in the court of medieval Naples. The use of dual timelines is effective, and I liked the way the author handled the ending (no spoiler details!). The vivid details put the reader directly into the sphere of the royal family and their struggles. Recommended!
May 22, 2021
Wonderful read
I’ve never read a book quite like this. I love historical fiction and even better when it is based on actual facts and really people. Because I’ve never read about this era or the country if Naples, everything was new and fresh. I can recommend it wholeheartedly and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
I’ve never read a book quite like this. I love historical fiction and even better when it is based on actual facts and really people. Because I’ve never read about this era or the country if Naples, everything was new and fresh. I can recommend it wholeheartedly and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
March 4, 2020
Loved this sequel to McLachlan's "The Girl Who Would Be Queen". The story is gripping, told in present tense and flashbacks. The characters are exceptionally well written so it's easy to sympathize with them. I also enjoyed McLachlan's description of Medieval Naples. Highly recommend!
April 22, 2020
Wonderful Book
I loved this book! I think the story was artfully woven. I didn’t want to put it down. This book was one of the best Historical Fiction novels I have read in a long time.
I loved this book! I think the story was artfully woven. I didn’t want to put it down. This book was one of the best Historical Fiction novels I have read in a long time.
May 21, 2020
Better than the first
I enjoyed this book better than the first book. Much more of an interesting story and I liked how it went back and forth between timelines with the main character.
I enjoyed this book better than the first book. Much more of an interesting story and I liked how it went back and forth between timelines with the main character.
January 15, 2021
Excellent
Fascinating read of the mother of a queen. Both books riveting but I enjoyed this book more. The lives of those who serve can be even more interesting than those they serve. Even as a historical novel, it felt accurate.
Fascinating read of the mother of a queen. Both books riveting but I enjoyed this book more. The lives of those who serve can be even more interesting than those they serve. Even as a historical novel, it felt accurate.
August 10, 2021
Imaginative
I liked the way the author switched from Phillippa’s early life to
the last months of her life. Her rise in the Neopolitan court was quite believable. This book describes how barbaric rival families for power were to each other to gain the upper hand.
I liked the way the author switched from Phillippa’s early life to
the last months of her life. Her rise in the Neopolitan court was quite believable. This book describes how barbaric rival families for power were to each other to gain the upper hand.
March 8, 2020
Excellent and was very enjoyable
March 22, 2020
Rich full historical read
Great read. Very hard to put down. The very thing to take your mind off the quarantine into a rich view of the past
Great read. Very hard to put down. The very thing to take your mind off the quarantine into a rich view of the past
April 29, 2020
Awesome!
I want more from the court of Joanna of Naples! This story is just as good as the first one!
I want more from the court of Joanna of Naples! This story is just as good as the first one!
June 21, 2020
Amazing story
I loved the time and setting. I thought the story was presented very well and it kept you guessing. I would love to learn more about this family now.
I loved the time and setting. I thought the story was presented very well and it kept you guessing. I would love to learn more about this family now.
September 14, 2020
VERY GOOD BOOK
Highly recommend.....makes me want to read more about this time in history and learned about these people. So much more to explore.....
Highly recommend.....makes me want to read more about this time in history and learned about these people. So much more to explore.....
October 21, 2021
Another great read!
This story was different from previous stories. This story really pulls you in, and you find yourself empathizing with the characters! Very talented author!!
This story was different from previous stories. This story really pulls you in, and you find yourself empathizing with the characters! Very talented author!!
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