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Henrietta Maria: Conspirator, Warrior, and Phoenix Queen – the true story of Charles I’s wife
A TIMES BOOK OF THE YEARSHORTLISTED FOR THE ELIZABETH LONGFORD PRIZEA myth-busting biography of Henrietta Maria, wife of Charles I, which retells the dramatic story of the civil war from her perspectiveHenrietta Maria, Charles I's queen, is the most reviled consort in British history. Condemned as the 'Popish brat of France' and a 'notorious whore', she remains in popular memory the woman who turned the king Catholic - so causing a civil war - and a cruel and bigoted mother.Leanda de Lisle unpicks these myths to reveal a very different queen. We meet a new bride who enjoyed annoying her uptight husband, who was a passionate advocate for the female voice in public affairs and who, when civil war came, proved crucial to Charles's campaign. The image of the Restoration queen as an irrelevant crone is replaced with Henrietta Maria as an influential 'phoenix queen'. It is time to look again at this despised queen and judge if she is not in fact one of our most remarkable.'this is revisionist history at its absolute best' ANDREW ROBERTS'beautifully written and endlessly fascinating' ALEXANDER LARMAN'popular history of the finest kind' RONALD HUTTON
496 pages, Paperback
First published August 4, 2022
34 people are currently reading
771 people want to read
About the author
Leanda de Lisle
16 books351 followersLeanda de Lisle is the author of bestselling Tudor and Stuart history praised for meticulous research as well as strong narratives. She has a Masters degree in history from Oxford University. TUDOR, her biography of the Tudor family 1437-1603, was a top ten Sunday Times best seller, BBC History book of the year, Daily Telegraph book of the year, and History Today book of the year. THE SISTERS WHO WOULD BE QUEEN; THE TRAGEDY OF MARY, KATHERINE AND LADY JANE GREY, was a New York Times best seller and is the inspiration for Phillippa Gregory's 2017 novel THE LAST TUDOR. Her latest book WHITE KING,, a biography of the doomed Charles I, is her most dramatic yet and is the winner of the 2018 Historical Writers Association non-fiction crown.
Leanda does a monthly podcast on itunes Ten Minute Tudors, it uncovers the true Tudors and Stuarts behind the myths.
Leanda does a monthly podcast on itunes Ten Minute Tudors, it uncovers the true Tudors and Stuarts behind the myths.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
May 14, 2023
There are far too many examples of women being either pegged as a villain or being omitted from history, entirely (history WAS written by men, as they say!). These ‘men’ (better described as ‘boys’) simply can’t/couldn’t handle an independent, alpha, decisive, complex, literate, warrior, boss babe and had to instead belittle and demean them with propaganda. This is endlessly true in western European history and especially in England. Henrietta Maria, daughter of Italy’s Marie de Medici and King Henry IV of France and Queen consort of England’s King Charles I; was just one of these women. Portrayed as a ‘Popish Brat’ who tried to convert Charles I to Catholicism and thus helped spark the Civil War and the eventual regicide of Charles (so far from the reality of the events); Henrietta Maria is painted with a dark brush. Leanda De Lisle attempts to shed some light on the truth of Henrietta Maria’s personality in, “Henrietta Maria”.
Leanda De Lisle is distinctive for her research and ambitious texts concerning niche pockets of English history or at least fresh perspectives on popular topics. “Henrietta Maria” is no exception and is not a run-of-the-mill biography; instead focusing more Henrietta’s role and impact at the side of King Charles I in hopes of this revealing her true nature and rehabilitating her somewhat poor image. In this way, history tells itself and allows Henrietta to step forward naturally and in an organic way. Unfortunately, the formatting also results in a piece that is absent of the full attention that De Lisle and the title promises with the reader learning more about the time period (Stuart England) than of Henrietta, herself. There are many unanswered questions and “Henrietta Maria” scarcely reveals the ‘real’ Henrietta.
Those readers gravitating towards a floral, visual and illustrative landscape in their history texts will find “Henrietta Maria” satisfying with De Lisle following her usual format of showing her writing chops alongside the history (she would pen a wonderful historical fiction novel, if she chose). “Henrietta Maria” is suspenseful and has a climatic build-up reminiscent of a cinematic plot. Don’t let this fool you into thinking “Henrietta Maria” is biased or fluffy as it is absolutely nothing of the sort and is heavy on the scholarly and factual fronts. It simply means De Lisle is far from dry and slow-moving.
Oftentimes, “Henrietta Maria” does slip on tangents and overly-focuses on details that feel mostly irrelevant to Henrietta Maria. Again, Henrietta is not revealed nearly as much as one would hope and therefore De Lisle overall fails at her target of changing the narrative that is generally pushed. Readers do not walk away from the text with any more of an understanding of Henrietta’s true position than from having read any other piece. This can be argued is because De Lisle tries so hard to not be opinionated within her writing and wants the events to show the real Henrietta but “Henrietta Maria” isn’t as successful as intended.
The majority of “Henrietta Maria” highlights the religious and civic wars during the reign of King Charles that leads to his eventual beheading attempting to showcase Henrietta’s actions during these events. Although some of the complexity and nuances surrounding her are revealed; “Henrietta Maria” more so describes King Charles I and his tragic reign. That being said, De Lisle offers a mountain of previously shrouded and lesser-discussed topics while debunking notable myths that are new even to those who are experts on the subject. Even if Henrietta isn’t the sole focus of De Lisle’s piece; readers will soak up new discoveries in “Henrietta Maria” making it quite notable.
De Lisle occasionally sprinkles in a borderline snarky or comedic line in “Henrietta Maria” but these are not unprofessional lapses in judgment and rather add some sassy finesse to the piece. Somehow, this tactic works even if it wouldn’t for another writer.
The concluding chapters of “Henrietta Maria” appear rushed and missing the opportunity to solidify an emotive understanding of Henrietta. Even at the finality, she feels overlooked and as a side character. This is slightly redeemed in the afterword in which De Lisle summarizes the events of the period through Henrietta Maria’s eyes and explains how they are thusly NOT as made to appear by other written histories. This section is the only time “Henrietta Maria” lives up to its hypothesis and unveils a side of Henrietta unknown. Too bad this is too little, too late.
“Henrietta Maria” includes two sections of photo plates and annotated notes that are particularly gratifying. For instance, there is a comment in the annotated notes in which De Lisle remarks on a point that personally failed to find and encourages readers to inform her of the answer. This is absolutely incredible and shows De Lisle’s inclination to learning and makes her relatable, accessible and interactive with her audience. This is something that should be adopted more often by writers/historians.
Even though “Henrietta Maria” doesn’t meet its aim to fully rehabilitate Henrietta or show an alternate perspective; it does reveal new information within a gripping, readable and well-written narrative even at points where the content is repetitive and somewhat dull. “Henrietta Maria” is not perfect but is still nevertheless suggested for all readers of Stuart England history texts.
I would give “Henrietta Maria” a solid 3½ stars. In lieu of half- stars, the rating has been rounded up to 4 stars.
Leanda De Lisle is distinctive for her research and ambitious texts concerning niche pockets of English history or at least fresh perspectives on popular topics. “Henrietta Maria” is no exception and is not a run-of-the-mill biography; instead focusing more Henrietta’s role and impact at the side of King Charles I in hopes of this revealing her true nature and rehabilitating her somewhat poor image. In this way, history tells itself and allows Henrietta to step forward naturally and in an organic way. Unfortunately, the formatting also results in a piece that is absent of the full attention that De Lisle and the title promises with the reader learning more about the time period (Stuart England) than of Henrietta, herself. There are many unanswered questions and “Henrietta Maria” scarcely reveals the ‘real’ Henrietta.
Those readers gravitating towards a floral, visual and illustrative landscape in their history texts will find “Henrietta Maria” satisfying with De Lisle following her usual format of showing her writing chops alongside the history (she would pen a wonderful historical fiction novel, if she chose). “Henrietta Maria” is suspenseful and has a climatic build-up reminiscent of a cinematic plot. Don’t let this fool you into thinking “Henrietta Maria” is biased or fluffy as it is absolutely nothing of the sort and is heavy on the scholarly and factual fronts. It simply means De Lisle is far from dry and slow-moving.
Oftentimes, “Henrietta Maria” does slip on tangents and overly-focuses on details that feel mostly irrelevant to Henrietta Maria. Again, Henrietta is not revealed nearly as much as one would hope and therefore De Lisle overall fails at her target of changing the narrative that is generally pushed. Readers do not walk away from the text with any more of an understanding of Henrietta’s true position than from having read any other piece. This can be argued is because De Lisle tries so hard to not be opinionated within her writing and wants the events to show the real Henrietta but “Henrietta Maria” isn’t as successful as intended.
The majority of “Henrietta Maria” highlights the religious and civic wars during the reign of King Charles that leads to his eventual beheading attempting to showcase Henrietta’s actions during these events. Although some of the complexity and nuances surrounding her are revealed; “Henrietta Maria” more so describes King Charles I and his tragic reign. That being said, De Lisle offers a mountain of previously shrouded and lesser-discussed topics while debunking notable myths that are new even to those who are experts on the subject. Even if Henrietta isn’t the sole focus of De Lisle’s piece; readers will soak up new discoveries in “Henrietta Maria” making it quite notable.
De Lisle occasionally sprinkles in a borderline snarky or comedic line in “Henrietta Maria” but these are not unprofessional lapses in judgment and rather add some sassy finesse to the piece. Somehow, this tactic works even if it wouldn’t for another writer.
The concluding chapters of “Henrietta Maria” appear rushed and missing the opportunity to solidify an emotive understanding of Henrietta. Even at the finality, she feels overlooked and as a side character. This is slightly redeemed in the afterword in which De Lisle summarizes the events of the period through Henrietta Maria’s eyes and explains how they are thusly NOT as made to appear by other written histories. This section is the only time “Henrietta Maria” lives up to its hypothesis and unveils a side of Henrietta unknown. Too bad this is too little, too late.
“Henrietta Maria” includes two sections of photo plates and annotated notes that are particularly gratifying. For instance, there is a comment in the annotated notes in which De Lisle remarks on a point that personally failed to find and encourages readers to inform her of the answer. This is absolutely incredible and shows De Lisle’s inclination to learning and makes her relatable, accessible and interactive with her audience. This is something that should be adopted more often by writers/historians.
Even though “Henrietta Maria” doesn’t meet its aim to fully rehabilitate Henrietta or show an alternate perspective; it does reveal new information within a gripping, readable and well-written narrative even at points where the content is repetitive and somewhat dull. “Henrietta Maria” is not perfect but is still nevertheless suggested for all readers of Stuart England history texts.
I would give “Henrietta Maria” a solid 3½ stars. In lieu of half- stars, the rating has been rounded up to 4 stars.
October 3, 2022
This is the remarkable story of the French princess -- the daughter of Henry IV and Marie d' Medici -- who married King Charles I of England, Scotland, and Ireland. And the portrait that emerges is not the one we are most used to. The old saw, attributed to Winston Churchill and others, "History is written by the victors," would seem to apply here. We are accustomed to seeing Henrietta Maria as the villainess in the story of the downfall and execution of Charles I: she was staunchly Catholic, narrow-minded, bigoted, led her husband back to Rome. Only the first is true: she *was* staunchly Catholic. In fact, she was charged, by the Pope and her mother, of using her marriage to a Protestant prince as a lever to returning England to the True Faith. And while Henrietta Maria did her best to promote Catholicism and to ameliorate the strictures placed upon her fellow Catholics, she was by no means a fanatic. While Charles had agreed to allow their children to be raised in Catholicism, Henrietta Maria nevertheless allowed them to be baptized in the Church of England. She numbered among her court and friends both Catholics and Protestants and showed an ability to get along with others that is not often shown in other biographies. As for Charles, he was staunchly Protestant (although his leanings toward Arminianism caused him no end of trouble with his Calvinist Scots subjects) and never converted. According to this author, Henrietta Maria made no strong or overbearing attempts to so change him. True, she was passionate -- especially about her family -- but she is shown to have been rather level-headed and clear-sighted in the advice she gave her more impetuous spouse. (One wonders what might have happened, had Charles paid closer attention to his wife's suggestions.) -- I enjoyed this biography very much and am thankful to have been provided with a fuller, more rounded, picture of the Queen whose history has been twisted and tarnished by the victors of the English Civil Wars...
May 26, 2023
3.75 Stars Rounded up
This was well done and interesting.
This was well done and interesting.
June 6, 2023
So… Henrietta Maria is getting the girlboss treatment and I’ve got mixed feels.
On the whole de lisle is correct that the old canard that Henrietta Maria was somehow responsible for the civil wars is false (in fact she bent over backwards to try and stop them) and that Charles I’s failures as a monarch and indeed as a man were entirely his own. Other myths are demolished too, including that she was a bad mother (she was not), that she was a bad wife (not the case either), and that she was a proselytising bigot (also untrue).
But this book has the same problems that White King did but in a greater scale. de Lisle takes Henrietta Maria too much at her own estimation and dismisses criticism as unfair slander as opposed to justified grievance. For example Henrietta’s cultural activities are held up as an example of female agency and voice as well as avant- grade sophistication. Her English contemporaries were not so enamoured instead seeing a chauvinistic disrespect for local custom and unjustified extravagance.
Likewise anyone who disagreed with her or criticised her is simply dismissed as an anti catholic misogynist, meaning that figures who may well have had good reason to resent her influence with the king or oppose her political activities such as Buckingham, Laud, or Clarendon are unfairly dismissed (or in the case of Buckingham, straightforwardly vilified and trivialised in a way that de lisle objects to how HM has often been treated). This is doubtless how Henrietta herself saw things but it’s not really a basis for a full rehabilitation.
On the whole de lisle is correct that the old canard that Henrietta Maria was somehow responsible for the civil wars is false (in fact she bent over backwards to try and stop them) and that Charles I’s failures as a monarch and indeed as a man were entirely his own. Other myths are demolished too, including that she was a bad mother (she was not), that she was a bad wife (not the case either), and that she was a proselytising bigot (also untrue).
But this book has the same problems that White King did but in a greater scale. de Lisle takes Henrietta Maria too much at her own estimation and dismisses criticism as unfair slander as opposed to justified grievance. For example Henrietta’s cultural activities are held up as an example of female agency and voice as well as avant- grade sophistication. Her English contemporaries were not so enamoured instead seeing a chauvinistic disrespect for local custom and unjustified extravagance.
Likewise anyone who disagreed with her or criticised her is simply dismissed as an anti catholic misogynist, meaning that figures who may well have had good reason to resent her influence with the king or oppose her political activities such as Buckingham, Laud, or Clarendon are unfairly dismissed (or in the case of Buckingham, straightforwardly vilified and trivialised in a way that de lisle objects to how HM has often been treated). This is doubtless how Henrietta herself saw things but it’s not really a basis for a full rehabilitation.
June 29, 2022
Leanda de Lisle’s biography of Queen Henrietta Maria has burnt through the mist of four hundred years of propaganda.
It pitches Henrietta at her own level. She is brought down from pious pedestals and raised up from the mire in which her reputation has often lain. With this balanced approach, Phoenix Queen tells Henrietta’s life from her point of view, allowing us to better understand the woman herself. We also see her experiences in comparison to those of her mother and sisters. This ability to turn history 360 degrees and deliver a fresh perspective is one of the book’s many strengths. A beautifully written narrative illustrates her story in the reader’s mind. Coupled with this, an all-important context of the era is given concisely and effortlessly, therefore no prior knowledge is required to enjoy it.
The Wars of the Three Kingdoms, in which Henrietta’s husband, King Charles I, lost both his throne and his life has overshadowed her. Like Charles, she is often judged on this defeat alone. Throughout hostilities, Henrietta displayed courage, loyalty and gritty determination in support of her husband’s cause, labouring physically, financially and diplomatically. This saw her targeted like a she-wolf; a dangerous woman, and worse still, a Catholic. Her exploits elicited much hatred from her enemies, but the truth is less polarised.
As a mere fifteen-year-old, she became queen of a country that had been a long-standing enemy of her native France. Britain was frozen by fear of Catholicism; persecution of Catholics was enshrined in law and the Gunpowder Treason was only twenty years prior. We often see Henrietta from this standpoint and forget how scared she must have been considering that England had struck the heads off a number of its queens. Far from leading a crusade to convert her husband and his kingdoms, it was Henrietta who was cautioned against apostasy. Her mother, Marie de Medici, warned of a thousand curses if she should succumb.
Myths surrounding the ‘popish brat’ are re-examined. In one respect, it could be said that Henrietta was a failure; she was not able to improve the lot of her co-religionists, nor were her children raised as Catholics. Her husband died in defence of the established Church of England and never entertained conversion. Britain remained staunchly Protestant. In short, she failed to live up to her enemies’ propaganda, but was nevertheless made a scapegoat and painted as an ultimate bogeywoman.
Henrietta is shown as one of our most remarkable queen consorts. She was passionately loyal to her husband, and her strength of character was a vital support throughout his reign. She continued the Stuart line and worked tirelessly to re-establish her son on the throne.
Though Henrietta and Charles’s marriage had stemmed from politics, they were devoted to one another from the very start, and continued so until the bitter end. In an altogether fitting way, this splendid work is the perfect consort to Leanda de Lisle’s biography of King Charles I, The White King.
It pitches Henrietta at her own level. She is brought down from pious pedestals and raised up from the mire in which her reputation has often lain. With this balanced approach, Phoenix Queen tells Henrietta’s life from her point of view, allowing us to better understand the woman herself. We also see her experiences in comparison to those of her mother and sisters. This ability to turn history 360 degrees and deliver a fresh perspective is one of the book’s many strengths. A beautifully written narrative illustrates her story in the reader’s mind. Coupled with this, an all-important context of the era is given concisely and effortlessly, therefore no prior knowledge is required to enjoy it.
The Wars of the Three Kingdoms, in which Henrietta’s husband, King Charles I, lost both his throne and his life has overshadowed her. Like Charles, she is often judged on this defeat alone. Throughout hostilities, Henrietta displayed courage, loyalty and gritty determination in support of her husband’s cause, labouring physically, financially and diplomatically. This saw her targeted like a she-wolf; a dangerous woman, and worse still, a Catholic. Her exploits elicited much hatred from her enemies, but the truth is less polarised.
As a mere fifteen-year-old, she became queen of a country that had been a long-standing enemy of her native France. Britain was frozen by fear of Catholicism; persecution of Catholics was enshrined in law and the Gunpowder Treason was only twenty years prior. We often see Henrietta from this standpoint and forget how scared she must have been considering that England had struck the heads off a number of its queens. Far from leading a crusade to convert her husband and his kingdoms, it was Henrietta who was cautioned against apostasy. Her mother, Marie de Medici, warned of a thousand curses if she should succumb.
Myths surrounding the ‘popish brat’ are re-examined. In one respect, it could be said that Henrietta was a failure; she was not able to improve the lot of her co-religionists, nor were her children raised as Catholics. Her husband died in defence of the established Church of England and never entertained conversion. Britain remained staunchly Protestant. In short, she failed to live up to her enemies’ propaganda, but was nevertheless made a scapegoat and painted as an ultimate bogeywoman.
Henrietta is shown as one of our most remarkable queen consorts. She was passionately loyal to her husband, and her strength of character was a vital support throughout his reign. She continued the Stuart line and worked tirelessly to re-establish her son on the throne.
Though Henrietta and Charles’s marriage had stemmed from politics, they were devoted to one another from the very start, and continued so until the bitter end. In an altogether fitting way, this splendid work is the perfect consort to Leanda de Lisle’s biography of King Charles I, The White King.
October 11, 2022
HENRIETTA MARIA: CONSPIRATOR, WARRIOR, PHOENIX QUEEN
Leander de Lisle
I love English history. This was very straightforward, with no frills but a lot of chills. I was riveted by the historical review, the research that must have taken place, and the factual delivery.
Excellent!
5 stars
Happy Reading!
Leander de Lisle
I love English history. This was very straightforward, with no frills but a lot of chills. I was riveted by the historical review, the research that must have taken place, and the factual delivery.
Excellent!
5 stars
Happy Reading!
May 3, 2024
Loved this book! I really enjoyed learning more about her life - I learned a lot and it was told in such a well written way!
September 12, 2025
A great read! The author succeeded in illustrating the role of Henrietta in England's history, indeed as a Conspirator, Warrior and Phoenix Queen. One might like her or dislike her, but one must admit that she showed extreme resilience in her faith, in her marriage and never hesitated to fight till the end. Her role as a mother should not be judged according to our modern ideas. She did what she thought was right... which definitely never led to happiness or peace in her heart and soul... A very interesting biography I enjoyed a lot.
Read
September 17, 2023I find it so hard to digest my information in written format - very well written however
December 11, 2023
This book has been on my shelf waiting for the end of my semester so I could give it the attention it deserves. The preface —- like with any historical biography — purports to offer a new or more nuanced understanding of the subject matter. In this case the subject is Henrietta Maria, perhaps one of England’s most reviled consorts. I was initially drawn to Henrietta Maria when reading de Lisle’s The White King and Stephen Coote’s Royal Survivor. The only cultural depictions I could recall of her seemed to position her as shrewish and rather inaccessible and for some reason the phrase “popish brat” seems to come to mind, but these qualities didn’t seem to match the tenacity she seemed to display through the acts attributed to her in what I had read. So, was she really that awful? Or is it as de Lisle proposes and we’ve accepted “deep state conspiracy theories of the seventeenth century[?]” (xxii)
Perhaps a bit of both. As a young woman she navigated delicate waters, a Catholic princess in a Protestant nation with an eye towards her future and a firm remembrance of her background. It must have felt like an impossible situation, but she seems to have faced it with determination, and from the “Generalissima” section quite bravely as she faced the dangers of the English Civil War. I think, overall, de Lisle does a wonderful job of presenting a balanced and fair examination of a complicated woman. I liked the bits about her love of theater and acting, the plays she would perform and was horror-struck reading about this fascination surrounding Louis XIII’s penis. I found it incredibly creepy that while in Holland, random Dutch people were paid to sit beside her and stare at her, what in the scary movie intimidation tactic is that?!
Perhaps a bit of both. As a young woman she navigated delicate waters, a Catholic princess in a Protestant nation with an eye towards her future and a firm remembrance of her background. It must have felt like an impossible situation, but she seems to have faced it with determination, and from the “Generalissima” section quite bravely as she faced the dangers of the English Civil War. I think, overall, de Lisle does a wonderful job of presenting a balanced and fair examination of a complicated woman. I liked the bits about her love of theater and acting, the plays she would perform and was horror-struck reading about this fascination surrounding Louis XIII’s penis. I found it incredibly creepy that while in Holland, random Dutch people were paid to sit beside her and stare at her, what in the scary movie intimidation tactic is that?!
July 10, 2023
This is a very good book indeed, even if it didn't really change my mind about Henrietta Maria.
I really liked how it situated the Civil War within the context of French and Spanish rivalry, widespread civil conflict on the conflict, and the character of Marie de Medici.
It's not that I disagree with de Lisle on facts or even on interpretation, it's that I think de Lisle does a very good job indeed of actually confirming milder, more rational versions of the accusations against Henrietta. HM *was* very smart, probably much smarter than Charles I, she *was* interested in bringing the country to Catholicism (even if, and rightly, de Lisle demonstrates that she wasn't responsible for Arminianism which was its own thing), she was engaged in the decisions Charles made (and his failure to listen to her doesn't acquit her, he failed to listen to pretty much everyone with sense). As for "bigotry": de Lisle wishes to acquit the queen of it, yet throws it at others on the other side quite happily (personally I'd like to retire "moderate", "extremist" and "bigot" for all factions in this war).
One small but tiny thing jumped out at me that made me go "hooray" because so rarely do popular historians get this right; p 310 "the New Model Army's sacking of the royalist garrison of Drogheda".
All in all, a week of reading very well spent. However, I cannot recommend the audio book. Daphne Kouma has decided that this is Sentimental Tale, and I had to give up because it all became just *so* Soppy! I am honestly not keen on actors reading history books. I'd much prefer the narrator reading it, and letting it sound like a lecture.
I really liked how it situated the Civil War within the context of French and Spanish rivalry, widespread civil conflict on the conflict, and the character of Marie de Medici.
It's not that I disagree with de Lisle on facts or even on interpretation, it's that I think de Lisle does a very good job indeed of actually confirming milder, more rational versions of the accusations against Henrietta. HM *was* very smart, probably much smarter than Charles I, she *was* interested in bringing the country to Catholicism (even if, and rightly, de Lisle demonstrates that she wasn't responsible for Arminianism which was its own thing), she was engaged in the decisions Charles made (and his failure to listen to her doesn't acquit her, he failed to listen to pretty much everyone with sense). As for "bigotry": de Lisle wishes to acquit the queen of it, yet throws it at others on the other side quite happily (personally I'd like to retire "moderate", "extremist" and "bigot" for all factions in this war).
One small but tiny thing jumped out at me that made me go "hooray" because so rarely do popular historians get this right; p 310 "the New Model Army's sacking of the royalist garrison of Drogheda".
All in all, a week of reading very well spent. However, I cannot recommend the audio book. Daphne Kouma has decided that this is Sentimental Tale, and I had to give up because it all became just *so* Soppy! I am honestly not keen on actors reading history books. I'd much prefer the narrator reading it, and letting it sound like a lecture.
June 5, 2024
Leanda de Lisle paints a vivid portrait of Henrietta Maria, whom I admittedly knew little of, and she makes the reader root for Henrietta throughout the book. She does a very good job of introducing the reader to Henrietta Maria’s big interconnected family, comprising the royal households of most of Europe, and manages to keep all the players straight in the reader’s head. In fact, this is the biggest strength of the book, is introducing us to all of Marie de Medici’s and Henry’s children.
And, of course, de Lisle’s writing is impeccably researched… now she just needs an editor to cull some of that research. This book got so bogged down in the details, it really dragged in places. There’s a mind-numbing play-by-play of which Christians wanted what, anecdotes about bit players going to pubs, and just far too much irrelevant stuff crammed into this book.
The other main problem appears at the end, where Henrietta Maria disowns her son for not converting to Catholicism. De Lisle clumsily glosses over this bit, obviously because it flies in the face of the positive portrayal she’s crafting of HM. But that made it stick out all the more, considering what an indefensible move it was – and it’s telling that not even de Lisle’s rose-tinted glasses offered some kind of defense for this. There’s nothing wrong with a positive biography trying to reclaim an unfairly villainized woman from history… but it would be stronger if de Lisle admitted that Henrietta Maria was flawed, rather than blameless in everything.
And, of course, de Lisle’s writing is impeccably researched… now she just needs an editor to cull some of that research. This book got so bogged down in the details, it really dragged in places. There’s a mind-numbing play-by-play of which Christians wanted what, anecdotes about bit players going to pubs, and just far too much irrelevant stuff crammed into this book.
The other main problem appears at the end, where Henrietta Maria disowns her son for not converting to Catholicism. De Lisle clumsily glosses over this bit, obviously because it flies in the face of the positive portrayal she’s crafting of HM. But that made it stick out all the more, considering what an indefensible move it was – and it’s telling that not even de Lisle’s rose-tinted glasses offered some kind of defense for this. There’s nothing wrong with a positive biography trying to reclaim an unfairly villainized woman from history… but it would be stronger if de Lisle admitted that Henrietta Maria was flawed, rather than blameless in everything.
November 27, 2022
A very good counter-balance to the usual reviled character. Leanda de Lisle considers the various accusations made against Henrietta Maria as the French, Catholic queen of Charles 1. The author considers Henrietta Maria`s point of view on the events, religion and manners of her adopted land. She was no bigot and was much involved in fund raising, strategic planning and campaigning during the civil wars. She proved herself to be a courageous "Generalissimo" and became crucial to the Royalists` cause as even Prince Rupert confirmed. However I think the the pendulum has swung too far in this book. Henrietta Maris was a determined Catholic who would not give up her attempts to return England to the Catholic faith and neither would she give up her beliefs in absolute monarchy. She may have wished Charles to give up some of his powers/prerogatives in order to keep his throne but her upbringing, family, ambitions for her sons and her belief in the `Divine Right of Kings` would have made such a wish short lived.
Too much of a one sided view on the Queen and of the Parliamentary cause in the civil wars.
Too much of a one sided view on the Queen and of the Parliamentary cause in the civil wars.
August 16, 2022
[ ] This book is a bit out of my time period that is my special interest. But I have enjoyed books from this author in the past and I knew very little about Henrietta so I gave it a go. I actually quite enjoyed it. I love learning about women from the past and how they coped with the chains that society has placed on them. I don't think Henrietta had much of a chance of ever completing the goals that she was given. The author is good writer and always research's something heavily before writing about it. I reccomend this book if the subject interests you, though if you have read the authors other book about Charles I, I could imagine it might get a bit repetitive. I didn't have that problem as I haven't read their Charles I biography.
June 19, 2023
The first 90 pages and last 80 pages were interesting because of the focus on Henrietta Maria and her immediate family (her mother, siblings, husband and children). The middle sections about the political intrigues and civil war contained too much detail and too many people to keep track of. At times I felt like I needed a separate history book (or Wikipedia) to explain what was happening and why. I’m not British and knew nothing of this era of British history prior to reading the book. However, I would expect a biography of an English queen to include enough of the historical facts for someone new to the story to be able to follow along.
December 4, 2023
Incredibly interesting reassessment of Queen Henrietta Maria, wife of Charles I. Charles was the king who because of his disdain for parliament and his vague belief in religious liberty was dethroned by yet another generation of Christian extremists. As with so many religious nuts, one of the “arrows in the quiver” was to demonize the kings (French and catholic) wife. Therefore, Henrietta has gone down in history as a scheming and manipulative wife who ruined her husband and adoptive country for the sake of the mass. Leanda really did the lady a solid in putting the facts - without the spin - to us in this eminently readable book.
April 11, 2023
A well-written and well-researched account of someone I knew nothing about but who was a remarkable person, a French princess, wife of the executed Charles I and mother to two kings, who lived in extraordinary times. The biography re-evaluates Henrietta Maria's life and times to portray a strong, capable leader rather than the Catholic whore and monster she was portrayed as by those seeking power and influence in a Europe divided by religion. The moralities and discriminations of the day are brought to life.
February 26, 2025
A very good biography of a very misunderstood Queen. This book seeks to dispel myths and bring forth truths about Henrietta Maria, the wife of Charles I. Raised at the court of France by her mother, the extremely powerful Marie de Medici, Henrietta Maria became a Queen herself when she married the English king.
There is much to be gleaned here about her family life, her political life, and her life in exile. Most of what we think we know about her comes from people who didn't like her. This book sets the record straight and helps up come to know the woman a little bit better.
There is much to be gleaned here about her family life, her political life, and her life in exile. Most of what we think we know about her comes from people who didn't like her. This book sets the record straight and helps up come to know the woman a little bit better.
March 15, 2025
This book offers a fascinating perspective on the English Civil War and the execution of Charles I by centering the narrative around Henrietta Maria. Through her life, you slowly see the pressures building—political, religious, and personal—while also keeping in mind the human cost of these conflicts. The book does an excellent job of weaving together the domestic and international stakes, placing the turmoil in England within the broader context of European power struggles.
And as a side note—yes, the inbreeding among the ruling families was intense.
And as a side note—yes, the inbreeding among the ruling families was intense.
March 30, 2024
Once again Leanda de Lisle does a superb job of telling the story of a Stuart monarch. My only complaint is a quibble, I realize, but when writing about a Catholic, one should learn what Catholic feasts actually are. I realize there are also many Catholics who couldn’t tell you the meaning of the feast of the Immaculate Conception, but still. I would say the same thing if one were writing about a Muslim and got Eid wrong.
September 1, 2022
With each new book I read on Henrietta Maria, it adds more depth, dimension, and understanding of the woman.
The first part really explains her family background and connects the dots with the European royal houses.
The queen loved a tumultuous life but was a stalwart to her faith, no matter what the cost.
Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for the early read.
The first part really explains her family background and connects the dots with the European royal houses.
The queen loved a tumultuous life but was a stalwart to her faith, no matter what the cost.
Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for the early read.
February 25, 2023
3.5
Leanda de Lisle has a real gift for bringing the historical figures she writes about to life. All her books are as unputdownable as any novel. Henrietta Marie's book is no different. Thoroughly enjoyable and such a pleasure to have this much maligned Queen given the fair hearing she deserves.
Leanda de Lisle has a real gift for bringing the historical figures she writes about to life. All her books are as unputdownable as any novel. Henrietta Marie's book is no different. Thoroughly enjoyable and such a pleasure to have this much maligned Queen given the fair hearing she deserves.
July 17, 2023
I was not very familiar with Henrietta Maria and this proved to be a good introduction. Her life covered a turbulent time in history and she was related to many of the major players. There has always been debate about her role in the English Civil War and in the ultimate downfall of Charles I. Leanda de Lisle has a sympathetic take on that question and is fairly convincing.
March 23, 2024
an absolutely incredible retelling of the life story of a queen often overlooked by historians.
it does a great job of exploring how she influenced charles i’s actions, and how she often pushed back against his unpopular decisions. it was lovely to see a historian care so much about her, rather than just painting her as the “evil catholic” who turned her husband against his people
it does a great job of exploring how she influenced charles i’s actions, and how she often pushed back against his unpopular decisions. it was lovely to see a historian care so much about her, rather than just painting her as the “evil catholic” who turned her husband against his people
December 23, 2025
A conscious and deliberate rehabilitation, and somewhat positional as a result. A book interested in personalities and incidents. MacCulloch's histories of Christianity I read earlier this year make this one more comprehensible in respect of religion; it was light on the political theory of the divine right of kings (possibly this is more deeply explored in the accompanying book about Charles I?)
June 6, 2023
Very interesting biography of Henrietta Maria, giving an account of the civil war from her perspective rather than that of the Royalists or Parliamentarians. Thoroughly researched and yet and easy and gripping read for the interested amateur.
June 11, 2024
Wonderful read. Captivating, vividly tells the tale of this complex Queen. Reliable and authoritative but allows you to draw your own conclusions about one of England's most notorious Queens. I learned a lot even though it's not the first time I've heard her story.
December 9, 2024
Little did I know how Henrietta Maria was out there in her dress on the scene of the battle. She wasn't a warrior such that she actually fought physically, but what an incredible woman. Henrietta Maria was stigmatised her entire life in England. Her religion being the main problem in an England full of disdain for anything popish. She endured and supported her family no matter the circumstance.
August 13, 2022
This was a bit disappointing. Basically a re-hash of the author's previous book.
October 13, 2022
Very well researched but a biography that just did not grab. If anything, too much detail. May appeal to others.
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