Solomon's Crown

A Novel

By: Natasha Siegel

Narrated by: Ben Allen, Steve West

Length: 11 hrs and 11 mins

Publisher's summary

“This sumptuous romance explores the relationship between Philip II of France and Richard the Lionheart. . . . Betrayal and tragedy lurk around every corner, yet there are moments of breathtaking loveliness.”—The New York Times Book Review (Editors’ Choice)

“Absolutely captivating and wonderfully romantic . . . I didn’t want to put this book down, even when it had ended.”—Rainbow Rowell, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Simon Snow Trilogy

Two rival kings fall desperately in love—but the fate of medieval Europe hangs in the balance.

Twelfth-century Europe. Newly crowned King Philip of France is determined to restore his nation to its former empire and bring glory to his name. But when his greatest enemy, King Henry of England, threatens to end his reign before it can even begin, Philip is forced to make a precarious alliance with Henry’s volatile son—risking both his throne, and his heart.

Richard, Duke of Aquitaine, never thought he would be king. But when an unexpected tragedy makes him heir to England’s royal seat, he finally has an opportunity to overthrow the father he despises. At first, Philip is a useful tool in his quest for vengeance . . . until passion and politics collide, and Richard begins to question whether the crown is worth the cost.

When Philip and Richard find themselves staring down an impending war, they must choose between their desire for each other and their grand ambitions. Will their love prevail if it calls to them from across the battlefield? Teeming with royal intrigue and betrayal, this epic romance reimagines two real-life kings ensnared by an impossible choice: Follow their hearts, or earn their place in history.

©2023 Natasha Siegel (P)2023 Random House Audio

Critic reviews

“I cannot believe this book exists. I want to wrap myself in velvet to read passages aloud beside a blazing hearth that’s taller than I am. The prose thrums with best kind of heartbreak. . . . There are moments of breathtaking loveliness: a kiss by a frozen woodland stream, light pouring through a stained-glass window, every acid-bright cameo by Eleanor of Aquitaine.”—The New York Times Book Review

“An utterly delightful reimagining of medieval Europe, where a romance between two kings unfolds across enemy lines. Natasha Siegel’s sweeping tale full of heart and historical optimism will make you believe the impossible.”—C. S. Pacat, New York Times bestselling author of Dark Rise

“Riveting, haunting—two powerful rulers in a battle for love and respect.”—Tamora Pierce

Wonderful alternative history!

The narrators did a great job voicing Phillip and Richard. You don’t have to have to know the history to enjoy the story but I enjoyed knowing which parts the author diverged into fiction. Highly recommend!

slow start, nails the finish

Loved this book. bit slow at the beginning but nails it in the end with it's characters and story. definitely recommend.

Gorgeous Alt History Love Story

I love this world and don’t think I’ll ever tire of exploring this family, these people, these fighters. It was so interesting to see them as lovers, though it was hard to keep envisioning them that way, as events and time marched on. It’s a fine line from love to hate and at some point, even if this did happen, they crossed it. Still, I do think it’s plausible, at least initially, and it’s intriguing to think of Richard and Phillip as star-crossed lovers. Also, the writing and characters and world building and narration are amazing. Well worth the read.

A bright and romantic take on Ricard and Philip

Solomon's Crown," a historical fiction novel delving into the relationship between Richard the Lionheart and Philip II of France, treads a fine line between history and creative narrative. While departing from factual events, the author exercises creative freedom, offering a fresh perspective on these historical figures. In this departure from true history, the story veers into uncharted territory, setting the stage for a narrative of its own.

The real lives of Richard and Philip were entrenched in a tumultuous era marked by violence, harsh conditions, and tragic ends to their reigns. However, within this fictionalized account, the focus on the romantic dynamics between Richard and Philip provides a captivating lens through which readers can explore broader themes of leadership, political maneuvering, and the complexities of brotherhood.

Experiencing both the audiobook and the written text added a unique dimension to the storytelling. The performance in the audiobook notably enhanced the emotional depth of Philip and Richard's inner musings, enriching the narrative.

Overall, "Solomon's Crown" is a recommended read, offering an intriguing exploration of historical characters in a setting where imagination and historical liberties intermingle to create an engaging tale.

Wonderful performance!

Love against the odds with an absolutely perfect performance! High drama and war and daisy chains - I described it as a “horny Wolf Hall.”

Wonderful narration

Wonderfully written and achingly beautiful at times. I had to listen to it in chunks because I was so afraid of what would happen! I also appreciated the author's notes about how and why she deviated from the historical narrative. I love queer historical stories, partly as a reminder that we have always existed.
With audiobooks, the narrator(so) can make or break the experience, and I am delighted at the choice of actors for both Richard and Philip. They are utterly perfect.

It was beautiful

This book exceeded my expectations. The narration was wonderful and the story was well written. I was uncertain at first if I would like it seeing as Richard the Lionheart and Philip the God-given had such tumultuous real life relations. Many of my fears were put aside in the foreword by the author. I am very glad I gave this book a chance!

Utterly splendid

Brilliant book with sublime narration. The immediacy of the relationship so well embedded in the history. Highly recommended!

Incredible!

That has to be one of my instant favorites! It was so well written it reminded me of some of my other favorites like Song of Achilles and Dark Rise. I love these characters with a passion!

Lovely

Siegel had me enthralled from chapter 1. Couldn’t stop listening to this book once I started. Ben and Steve read this beautifully. Pretty sure this is now one of my favorites.