Katherine by Anya Seton - A Short Book Review

I'm a sucker for period dramas and this one really does put Philippa Gregory's best-seller 'The White Queen' to shame - and that's saying something!

Set in 14th-Century England in the rein of Edward III, Katherine de Rout comes to court (as her sister is lady-in-waiting to Queen Philippa - also fiancée to the legendary poet Geoffrey Chauncer) with the role of damsel in distress - due to turning many heads at court. She catches the legendary John of Gaunt, however he is married and she is betrothed to Hugh Swynford. When Hugh falls ill and mysteriously dies, Katherine becomes the Prince's mistress, alongside official governess of the Duke's two other children from his first marriage.

I'm sorry but I was in love with this romanticized story of the Duke and the ordinary, almost peasant-like girl; Seton just tells the story wonderfully and this gripping tale with all of it's realistic, lively characters really brings history to life. Trust me, you will struggle to put this down, whether history's your thing or isn't! Katherine's emotions and feelings really do come to life, and it's surprising how a once hated Duke can really make you swoon, even by today's standards! The gravitational pull between these two characters is passionate and addictive. Seton really succeeds with the art of repainting one of history's most infatuated love stories.

However grand this story may be, it did lack some depth to a certain degree due to the very few facts there were of Katherine Swynford's life. Although Seton did make up for this and did an inspiring job about bringing the characters alive with the little knowledge she could obtain!

Honestly, I could go on forever, but I'd end up spoiling the story! Read it for yourself and bring this story to life once more.

Rating: *****