-
Gilded Cages
- The Trials of Eleanor of Aquitaine
- Narrated by: Elizabeth Jasicki
- Length: 30 hrs and 51 mins
Add to Cart failed.
Add to Wish List failed.
Remove from wishlist failed.
Adding to library failed
Follow podcast failed
Unfollow podcast failed
Buy for $34.75
No default payment method selected.
We are sorry. We are not allowed to sell this product with the selected payment method
Listeners also enjoyed...
-
The Fatal Crown
- By: Ellen Jones
- Narrated by: Suzanne Toren
- Length: 23 hrs and 25 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
At nine, Maud, an English princess, was sent to Germany to become the bride of the Holy Roman Emperor - a political alliance with a man her father’s age. At 25, the widowed Maud must marry once again, this time to 14-year-old Geoffrey Plantagenet. But it is with Stephen of Blois, Maud’s fiercest rival for the British throne, that the headstrong princess discovers the true meaning of desire.
-
-
Maybe better in print?
- By Natasha on 03-13-14
By: Ellen Jones
-
Beloved Enemy
- By: Ellen Jones
- Narrated by: Robert Blumenfeld
- Length: 19 hrs and 48 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
"Aquitaine is mine. It will never belong to anyone else."
With these words, 15-year-old Eleanor seals her fate. Aquitaine is under the French king’s safekeeping, and Eleanor, the Duke of Aquitaine’s eldest daughter, knows she must wed Prince Louis in order to insure the future of her beloved duchy. Fiercely independent, filled with untapped desire, the woman who would be queen must provide Louis VII, her monkish husband, with heirs. But it is young Henry of Anjou who catches Eleanor’s eye - and sets fire to her heart.
-
-
Good story but terrible narrator
- By Christine on 02-01-13
By: Ellen Jones
-
The Last White Rose
- A Novel of Elizabeth of York
- By: Alison Weir
- Narrated by: Rosalyn Landor
- Length: 19 hrs and 50 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Elizabeth of York is the oldest daughter of King Edward IV. Flame-haired, beautiful, and sweet-natured, she is adored by her family; yet her life is suddenly disrupted when her beloved father dies in the prime of life. Her uncle, the notorious Richard III, takes advantage of King Edward’s death to grab the throne and imprison Elizabeth's two younger brothers, the rightful royal heirs. Forever afterward known as the princes in the tower, the boys are never seen again.
-
-
Very entertaining
- By joni Faria on 08-29-22
By: Alison Weir
-
The Summer Queen
- Eleanor of Aquitaine Trilogy, Book 1
- By: Elizabeth Chadwick
- Narrated by: Katie Scarfe
- Length: 18 hrs and 19 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Eleanor of Aquitaine's story is legendary. She is an icon who has fascinated readers for over 800 years. But the real Eleanor remains elusive - until now. Based on the most up-to-date research, best-selling novelist Elizabeth Chadwick brings Eleanor's magnificent story to life, as never before. Young, vibrant, privileged, Eleanor's future is golden as the heiress to wealthy Aquitaine. But when her beloved father dies suddenly in the summer of 1137, her childhood ends abruptly.
-
-
The Romance Runs Strong in This One
- By Sara on 10-04-14
-
Courtesan
- By: Diane Haeger
- Narrated by: Corrie James
- Length: 22 hrs and 36 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The Court of François I is full of lust, intrigue, and bawdy bon temps—a different world from the quiet country life Diane de Poitiers led with her elderly husband. Now a widow, the elegant Diane is called back to Court, where the King's obvious interest marks her as an enemy to the King's favorite, Anne d'Heilly. The Court is soon electrified by rumors of their confrontations. As Anne calls on her most venomous tricks to drive Diane away, Diane finds an ally in the one member of Court with no allegiance to the King's mistress: his teenage second son, Henri.
-
-
If you like historical fiction, this is for you.
- By Missmarf on 11-09-22
By: Diane Haeger
-
The Queen’s Rival
- By: Anne O'Brien
- Narrated by: Elaine Claxton
- Length: 15 hrs and 31 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
England, 1459: Cecily, duchess of York, is embroiled in a plot to topple the weak-minded King Henry VI from the throne. But when the Yorkists are defeated at the Battle of Ludford Bridge, Cecily’s family flee and abandon her to face a marauding Lancastrian army on her own. Cecily can only watch as her lands are torn apart and divided up by the ruthless Queen Marguerite.
-
-
Not a fsvorite
- By Mary Lynn Cox on 05-24-21
By: Anne O'Brien
-
The Fatal Crown
- By: Ellen Jones
- Narrated by: Suzanne Toren
- Length: 23 hrs and 25 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
At nine, Maud, an English princess, was sent to Germany to become the bride of the Holy Roman Emperor - a political alliance with a man her father’s age. At 25, the widowed Maud must marry once again, this time to 14-year-old Geoffrey Plantagenet. But it is with Stephen of Blois, Maud’s fiercest rival for the British throne, that the headstrong princess discovers the true meaning of desire.
-
-
Maybe better in print?
- By Natasha on 03-13-14
By: Ellen Jones
-
Beloved Enemy
- By: Ellen Jones
- Narrated by: Robert Blumenfeld
- Length: 19 hrs and 48 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
"Aquitaine is mine. It will never belong to anyone else."
With these words, 15-year-old Eleanor seals her fate. Aquitaine is under the French king’s safekeeping, and Eleanor, the Duke of Aquitaine’s eldest daughter, knows she must wed Prince Louis in order to insure the future of her beloved duchy. Fiercely independent, filled with untapped desire, the woman who would be queen must provide Louis VII, her monkish husband, with heirs. But it is young Henry of Anjou who catches Eleanor’s eye - and sets fire to her heart.
-
-
Good story but terrible narrator
- By Christine on 02-01-13
By: Ellen Jones
-
The Last White Rose
- A Novel of Elizabeth of York
- By: Alison Weir
- Narrated by: Rosalyn Landor
- Length: 19 hrs and 50 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Elizabeth of York is the oldest daughter of King Edward IV. Flame-haired, beautiful, and sweet-natured, she is adored by her family; yet her life is suddenly disrupted when her beloved father dies in the prime of life. Her uncle, the notorious Richard III, takes advantage of King Edward’s death to grab the throne and imprison Elizabeth's two younger brothers, the rightful royal heirs. Forever afterward known as the princes in the tower, the boys are never seen again.
-
-
Very entertaining
- By joni Faria on 08-29-22
By: Alison Weir
-
The Summer Queen
- Eleanor of Aquitaine Trilogy, Book 1
- By: Elizabeth Chadwick
- Narrated by: Katie Scarfe
- Length: 18 hrs and 19 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Eleanor of Aquitaine's story is legendary. She is an icon who has fascinated readers for over 800 years. But the real Eleanor remains elusive - until now. Based on the most up-to-date research, best-selling novelist Elizabeth Chadwick brings Eleanor's magnificent story to life, as never before. Young, vibrant, privileged, Eleanor's future is golden as the heiress to wealthy Aquitaine. But when her beloved father dies suddenly in the summer of 1137, her childhood ends abruptly.
-
-
The Romance Runs Strong in This One
- By Sara on 10-04-14
-
Courtesan
- By: Diane Haeger
- Narrated by: Corrie James
- Length: 22 hrs and 36 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The Court of François I is full of lust, intrigue, and bawdy bon temps—a different world from the quiet country life Diane de Poitiers led with her elderly husband. Now a widow, the elegant Diane is called back to Court, where the King's obvious interest marks her as an enemy to the King's favorite, Anne d'Heilly. The Court is soon electrified by rumors of their confrontations. As Anne calls on her most venomous tricks to drive Diane away, Diane finds an ally in the one member of Court with no allegiance to the King's mistress: his teenage second son, Henri.
-
-
If you like historical fiction, this is for you.
- By Missmarf on 11-09-22
By: Diane Haeger
-
The Queen’s Rival
- By: Anne O'Brien
- Narrated by: Elaine Claxton
- Length: 15 hrs and 31 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
England, 1459: Cecily, duchess of York, is embroiled in a plot to topple the weak-minded King Henry VI from the throne. But when the Yorkists are defeated at the Battle of Ludford Bridge, Cecily’s family flee and abandon her to face a marauding Lancastrian army on her own. Cecily can only watch as her lands are torn apart and divided up by the ruthless Queen Marguerite.
-
-
Not a fsvorite
- By Mary Lynn Cox on 05-24-21
By: Anne O'Brien
-
The Confessions of Catherine de Medici
- A Novel
- By: C. W. Gortner
- Narrated by: Cassandra Campbell
- Length: 15 hrs and 58 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In this brilliantly imagined novel, acclaimed author C. W. Gortner brings Catherine to life in her own voice, allowing us to enter the intimate world of a woman whose determination to protect her family’s throne and realm plunged her into a lethal struggle for power. From the fairy-tale chateaux of the Loire Valley to the battlefields of the wars of religion to the mob-filled streets of Paris, this is the extraordinary untold journey of one of the most maligned and misunderstood women ever to be queen.
-
-
Pretty good but historical details are terrible
- By Kindle Customer on 07-10-11
By: C. W. Gortner
-
Thwarted Queen
- The Entire Saga About the Yorks, Lancasters, and Nevilles, Whose Family Feud Inspired "Game of Thrones"
- By: Cynthia Sally Haggard
- Narrated by: Diana Croft
- Length: 14 hrs and 17 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
When Robert Baratheon died suddenly after a boar hunt, all hell broke loose. When Edward IV, King of England, died suddenly after a fishing trip in April 1483, another phase of the Wars of the Roses ensued, the Yorks (Starks) battling the Lancasters (Lannisters). Thwarted Queen is told mainly in the voice of Lady Cecylee Neville (1415-1495), the thwarted queen, but other voices are important to this tale, not least those of the Londoners, who forged their own political destiny by engaging in public debate with the powerful aristocrats of the time
-
-
A Complex and Compelling Story
- By Barbara Lunz on 03-23-21
-
The First Princess of Wales
- A Novel
- By: Karen Harper
- Narrated by: Bianca Amato
- Length: 22 hrs and 1 min
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
At the height of the Middle Ages in the 14th century, King Edward III of England is determined to use any means necessary to expand his power and gain control of England's bitter rival, France. His own son, Edward, prince of Wales, is far from immune from his political plans. And when Joan of Kent, now free from exile, sees her chance for revenge, she takes it. A calculated plot to scandalize the royal family for revenge for her father's downfall and execution soon turns into the most surprising thing: love.
-
-
Dissapointing
- By Pamela on 09-18-20
By: Karen Harper
-
Shadow on the Crown
- A Novel
- By: Patricia Bracewell
- Narrated by: Katie Firth
- Length: 13 hrs and 40 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In 1002, 15-year-old Emma of Normandy crosses the Narrow Sea to wed the much older King Athelred of England, whom she meets for the first time at the church door. Thrust into an unfamiliar and treacherous court, with a husband who mistrusts her, stepsons who resent her, and a bewitching rival who covets her crown, Emma must defend herself against her enemies and secure her status as queen by bearing a son.
-
-
Trying to return.
- By Polish Princess on 08-26-15
-
Queen of the North
- By: Anne O'Brien
- Narrated by: Beth Eyre
- Length: 14 hrs and 20 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
1399: England’s crown is under threat. King Richard II holds on to his power by an ever-weakening thread, with exiled Henry of Lancaster back to reclaim his place on the throne. For Elizabeth Mortimer, there is only one rightful King - her eight-year-old nephew, Edmund. Only he can guarantee her fortunes and protect her family’s rule over the precious northern lands bordering Scotland.
-
-
Oh My Goodness!!
- By Anonymous User on 11-19-18
By: Anne O'Brien
-
The Queen’s Lady
- By: Joanna Hickson
- Narrated by: Sophie Bentinck
- Length: 14 hrs and 6 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
As lady-in-waiting and confidante to Queen Elizabeth, wife of Henry VII, Joan understands royal patronage is vital if she and her husband, Sir Richard, are to thrive in the volatile atmosphere of court life. But Tudor England is in mourning following the death of the prince of Wales, and within a year, the queen herself. With Prince Henry now heir to the throne, the court murmurs with the sound of conspiracy. Is the entire Tudor project now at stake or can young Henry secure the dynasty?
-
-
Very good book.
- By sue on 10-30-22
By: Joanna Hickson
-
First of the Tudors
- By: Joanna Hickson
- Narrated by: Tom Clegg, Non Haf
- Length: 14 hrs and 46 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Jasper Tudor, son of Queen Catherine and her second husband, Owen Tudor, has grown up far from the intrigue of the royal court. But after he and his brother Edmund are summoned to London, their half brother, King Henry VI, takes a keen interest in their future. Bestowing earldoms on them both, Henry also gives them the wardship of the young heiress Margaret Beaufort. Although she is still a child, Jasper becomes devoted to her and is devastated when Henry arranges her betrothal to Edmund.
-
-
War of the Roses, Again
- By Laurel on 03-27-17
By: Joanna Hickson
-
The Other Queen
- A Novel (The Plantagenet and Tudor Novels)
- By: Philippa Gregory
- Narrated by: Richard Armitage, Alex Kingston, Madeleine Leslay
- Length: 16 hrs and 32 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Fleeing violent rebellions in Scotland, Mary looks to Queen Elizabeth of England for sanctuary. Though promised protection, Mary, perceived as a serious threat to the English crown, is soon imprisoned by her former friend as a “guest” in the house of George Talbot, earl of Shrewsbury, and his indomitable wife, Bess of Hardwick.
-
-
My new favorite Phillippa Gregory book!
- By G BARE on 07-11-19
By: Philippa Gregory
-
Lady of the English
- By: Elizabeth Chadwick
- Narrated by: Patience Tomlinson
- Length: 16 hrs and 59 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Two very different women are linked by destiny and the struggle for the English crown. Matilda, daughter of Henry I, is determined to win back her crown from Stephen, the usurper king. Adeliza, Henry's widowed queen and Matilda's stepmother, is now married to William D'Albini, a warrior of the opposition. Both women are strong and prepared to stand firm for what they know is right. But in a world where a man's word is law, how can Adeliza obey her husband while supporting Matilda, the rightful queen?
-
-
Very Enjoyable!
- By Cat Morgan on 09-28-16
-
The Agincourt Bride
- By: Joanna Hickson
- Narrated by: Catherine Harvey
- Length: 16 hrs and 42 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
When her own first child is tragically still-born, the young Mette is pressed into service as a wet-nurse at the court of the mad king, Charles VI of France. Her young charge is the princess, Catherine de Valois, caught up in the turbulence and chaos of life at court. Mette and the child forge a bond, one that transcends Mette’s lowly position. But as Catherine approaches womanhood, her unique position seals her fate as a pawn between two powerful dynasties.
-
-
Disappointing
- By Michelle on 02-16-13
By: Joanna Hickson
-
A Place Beyond Courage
- By: Elizabeth Chadwick
- Narrated by: Peter Wickham
- Length: 24 hrs and 13 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
It is a time for ambitious men to prosper, and royal servant John FitzGilbert Marshal is one of them. Raised high, as the kin of the deceased King Henry battle each other for England's throne, John reaps rich rewards but pays a terrible price for the choices he makes - as does his family. His wife, fragile, naïve Aline is hopelessly unequipped to cope with the demands of a life lived on the edge and, when John is seriously injured in battle, her worst nightmare is realised.
-
-
A Must for Chadwick fans
- By Kemdi on 10-02-14
-
The Queen’s Vow
- A Novel of Isabella of Castile
- By: C. W. Gortner
- Narrated by: Rosalyn Landor
- Length: 15 hrs and 53 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
“No one believed I was destined for greatness.” So begins Isabella’s story, in this evocative, vividly imagined novel about one of history’s most famous and controversial queens - the warrior who united a fractured country, the champion of the faith whose reign gave rise to the Inquisition, and the visionary who sent Columbus to discover a new world. Acclaimed author C. W. Gortner envisages the turbulent early years of a woman whose mythic rise to power would go on to transform a monarchy, a nation, and the world.
-
-
Excellent historical fiction!
- By nursebettyknitting on 07-30-12
By: C. W. Gortner
Publisher's Summary
Set against the splendor and scheming of the Middle Ages, this enthralling historical novel brings to life the magnificent Eleanor of Aquitaine, a woman far ahead of her time and one of history’s most extraordinary queens
Tumultuous. Passionate. Timeless. The marriage between Eleanor of Aquitaine and Henry Plantagenet was like no other, born of power, politics, and an all-consuming, fiery love. Within two years of their wedding, Henry conquered England and together they ruled a vast kingdom. At first they worked to unify and repair their war-torn lands - before being torn apart by intrigue, adultery, and deadly revenge.
Henry II dreams of enacting a new judicial system, a common law that would help foster peace. But a devastating betrayal by his closest confidante, Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury, thrusts Henry into a rivalry that threatens to tear church and state apart. Eleanor, an accomplished ruler in her own right, steps in to help Henry quell the rebellions across their lands. But when she learns of her husband’s secret romance with the fair, young Rosamund de Clifford, it shatters her heart and ignites a bitter vengeance that will engulf their family in treachery and betrayal. As Eleanor takes the side of her sons against their father, these young royals, chafing for power of their own, wreak havoc across the continent, igniting a war whose tragic consequences Eleanor could never have foreseen.
More from the same
What listeners say about Gilded Cages
Average Customer RatingsReviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Sarah
- 09-06-13
Enjoyable Retelling
Any additional comments?
Gilded Cages is the second book recounting the life of Eleanor of Aquitaine; the first, Beloved Enemy, tells of her marriage to Louis of France and the beginning of her life with Henry II; this volume completes her biography. The story is well-known; the main difference from some writers' interpretation is that Thomas a Becket is portrayed very negatively.
Apart from Ms. Jones' excessive fondness for the archaic term "sennight" [a week], which she uses on every occasion she can fit it in, I found this an enjoyable listen, and well read. Falls into the "ripping yarn" category. Recommended, as long as you are not looking for a scholarly work. Some of the episodes are more legendary than documented.
6 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Kristi R.
- 06-24-14
Eleanor and Henry II of England
This book was interesting for the most part. Parts of it dragged especially when Eleanor was imprisoned and other people's stories were at the forefront. I have read several books on Eleanor of Aquitaine and Henry II. The Lion at Winter is one of my favorite movies.
The narrator for this book tries to sound like Katharine Hepburn and does a good job. I hated her characterization of Thomas Becket, he was lispy and very wimpish. Not Richard Burton at all.
The story begins with Eleanor and Henry already a family with Fair Rosamund just around the corner. The author takes a lot of liberties with her death and sorry to say but I can't buy it. This is one reason I can't give it five stars.
The author does great when describing the complicated relationship between Eleanor and Henry. I have no trouble believing in their love even though both have hurt each other over the years. Wonderful job here!
The childrens' complicated relationship is handled quite well also. When you have a strong father and mother and no clear outline for your future it's difficult to act responsibly.
My husband and childrens' bloodline can be traced back to Henry and Eleanor's son John so this is a personal story for me.
4 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- P.J.
- 01-09-16
Good Story with a Strong Irritation
Queen Eleanor and King Henry seem to have a marriage based on love and full of children. However, over time King Henry's male bravado takes the usual course of kings of that era. The story follows their lives which are twisted as Henry becomes infatuated with a young woman, another young woman schemes for power and Eleanor and her sons plot to against Henry.
Well written, good narrators but one big irritant: for some strange reason after a couple of hours the writer finds it necessary to have the characters use the exclamations "God's eyes" and "God's teeth" repeatedly - to the point that I was ready to just scream. These exclamations add nothing, seem senseless, are irritant, distracting and so frequent it really ruins the reading.
2 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Christy
- 10-16-15
Eleanor of Aquitaine
I really liked this book and recommend it highly! Others gave the narrator bad reviews, but I don't think she was horrible. She wasn't the best, but not the worst, either. Great read!
2 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Jessica Jewett
- 05-11-15
Full of detail, lacks some good writing.
Exquisitely researched and full of detail. My only qualm was the periodic bouts of awkward prose. Certain phrases were very very overused. Otherwise it was a wonderful book.
2 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- A User
- 06-10-13
Wonderfully done and written.
Would you listen to Gilded Cages again? Why?
Yes I love it. I have it on my MP3 player and listen to it as work. I am a lampwork bead maker and design them for pens
Which scene was your favorite?
the whole thing from front to back and all the in between
If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?
You thought you knew the true story - Now you can go between the lines and still want more
2 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Beth King
- 09-02-22
interesting story well narrated
Great story that covers a turbulent time in history and a fabulous cast if characters
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- USA Dianne
- 07-05-14
Strong woman, who's story should be better known
What made the experience of listening to Gilded Cages the most enjoyable?
I knew nothing of Eleanor of Aquitaine before I read this book. This is a very interesting story that lives up to the saying 'Behind every great man is a great woman'. It was informative, you learnt some interesting facts without any effort. I also loved the use of the period slang.
What other book might you compare Gilded Cages to and why?
The Lady Elizabeth: A Novel had a similar feel, which is not surprising considering it is a the same genera.
Which character – as performed by Elizabeth Jasicki – was your favorite?
All the characters were great.
Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?
It is a very long book, but I did listen to most of it in one weekend.
I will differently be listening it again during my holidays.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Alison
- 02-09-20
Gilded Cages
I’m afraid I didn’t like the voice of the narrator, Elizabeth Jasicki. There were times when she mispronounced words, such as prelates. Clearly she had not received a convent education!
-
Overall

- lateral thinking
- 06-14-19
Excellent
All aspects of this audio book are excellent. I especially enjoyed the fine detail which the author took time to incude.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Anonymous User
- 05-16-18
An epic
Intially found it hard to.get into, but so glad I did. Loved the detail and historical fact and the way it was brought to life. Was captured until the very last sentence.
People who viewed this also viewed...
-
Beloved Enemy
- By: Ellen Jones
- Narrated by: Robert Blumenfeld
- Length: 19 hrs and 48 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
"Aquitaine is mine. It will never belong to anyone else."
With these words, 15-year-old Eleanor seals her fate. Aquitaine is under the French king’s safekeeping, and Eleanor, the Duke of Aquitaine’s eldest daughter, knows she must wed Prince Louis in order to insure the future of her beloved duchy. Fiercely independent, filled with untapped desire, the woman who would be queen must provide Louis VII, her monkish husband, with heirs. But it is young Henry of Anjou who catches Eleanor’s eye - and sets fire to her heart.
-
-
Good story but terrible narrator
- By Christine on 02-01-13
By: Ellen Jones
-
The Fatal Crown
- By: Ellen Jones
- Narrated by: Suzanne Toren
- Length: 23 hrs and 25 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
At nine, Maud, an English princess, was sent to Germany to become the bride of the Holy Roman Emperor - a political alliance with a man her father’s age. At 25, the widowed Maud must marry once again, this time to 14-year-old Geoffrey Plantagenet. But it is with Stephen of Blois, Maud’s fiercest rival for the British throne, that the headstrong princess discovers the true meaning of desire.
-
-
Maybe better in print?
- By Natasha on 03-13-14
By: Ellen Jones
-
The Summer Queen
- Eleanor of Aquitaine Trilogy, Book 1
- By: Elizabeth Chadwick
- Narrated by: Katie Scarfe
- Length: 18 hrs and 19 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Eleanor of Aquitaine's story is legendary. She is an icon who has fascinated readers for over 800 years. But the real Eleanor remains elusive - until now. Based on the most up-to-date research, best-selling novelist Elizabeth Chadwick brings Eleanor's magnificent story to life, as never before. Young, vibrant, privileged, Eleanor's future is golden as the heiress to wealthy Aquitaine. But when her beloved father dies suddenly in the summer of 1137, her childhood ends abruptly.
-
-
The Romance Runs Strong in This One
- By Sara on 10-04-14
-
The Marriage Game
- A Novel of Queen Elizabeth I
- By: Alison Weir
- Narrated by: Julia Franklin
- Length: 16 hrs and 18 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Only 25 and newly crowned, Elizabeth vows to rule the country as both queen and king. But her counselors continually press her to form an advantageous marriage and produce an heir. Though none of the suitors have yet worked their way to her throne, the dashing - though married - Lord Robert lays claim to Elizabeth's heart.
-
-
Not my favorite Alison Weir Fiction
- By Michelle Hamlett on 07-13-15
By: Alison Weir
-
The Royal Game
- By: Anne O'Brien
- Narrated by: Jilly Bond
- Length: 13 hrs and 58 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
England, 1444. Three women who came from nowhere to challenge the course of history. King Henry VI’s grip on the crown hangs by a thread as the Wars of the Roses begin to tear England apart. Everyone must choose between York or Lancaster. And from the ashes of war, the House of Paston begins its rise to power. Led by three visionary women, the Pastons are a family from humble peasant beginnings who rely upon cunning, raw ambition and good fortune in order to survive.
By: Anne O'Brien
-
A Tapestry of Treason
- By: Anne O'Brien
- Narrated by: Gloria Sanders
- Length: 16 hrs and 11 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
1399: Constance of York, Lady Despenser, proves herself more than a mere observer in the devious intrigues of her magnificently dysfunctional family, the House of York. Surrounded by power-hungry men, including her aggressively self-centred husband, Thomas, and ruthless siblings, Edward and Richard, Constance places herself at the heart of two treasonous plots against King Henry IV. Will it be possible for this Plantagenet family to safeguard its own political power by restoring either King Richard II to the throne, or the precarious Mortimer claimant?
-
-
Fascinating story
- By Janet on 09-02-19
By: Anne O'Brien
-
Beloved Enemy
- By: Ellen Jones
- Narrated by: Robert Blumenfeld
- Length: 19 hrs and 48 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
"Aquitaine is mine. It will never belong to anyone else."
With these words, 15-year-old Eleanor seals her fate. Aquitaine is under the French king’s safekeeping, and Eleanor, the Duke of Aquitaine’s eldest daughter, knows she must wed Prince Louis in order to insure the future of her beloved duchy. Fiercely independent, filled with untapped desire, the woman who would be queen must provide Louis VII, her monkish husband, with heirs. But it is young Henry of Anjou who catches Eleanor’s eye - and sets fire to her heart.
-
-
Good story but terrible narrator
- By Christine on 02-01-13
By: Ellen Jones
-
The Fatal Crown
- By: Ellen Jones
- Narrated by: Suzanne Toren
- Length: 23 hrs and 25 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
At nine, Maud, an English princess, was sent to Germany to become the bride of the Holy Roman Emperor - a political alliance with a man her father’s age. At 25, the widowed Maud must marry once again, this time to 14-year-old Geoffrey Plantagenet. But it is with Stephen of Blois, Maud’s fiercest rival for the British throne, that the headstrong princess discovers the true meaning of desire.
-
-
Maybe better in print?
- By Natasha on 03-13-14
By: Ellen Jones
-
The Summer Queen
- Eleanor of Aquitaine Trilogy, Book 1
- By: Elizabeth Chadwick
- Narrated by: Katie Scarfe
- Length: 18 hrs and 19 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Eleanor of Aquitaine's story is legendary. She is an icon who has fascinated readers for over 800 years. But the real Eleanor remains elusive - until now. Based on the most up-to-date research, best-selling novelist Elizabeth Chadwick brings Eleanor's magnificent story to life, as never before. Young, vibrant, privileged, Eleanor's future is golden as the heiress to wealthy Aquitaine. But when her beloved father dies suddenly in the summer of 1137, her childhood ends abruptly.
-
-
The Romance Runs Strong in This One
- By Sara on 10-04-14
-
The Marriage Game
- A Novel of Queen Elizabeth I
- By: Alison Weir
- Narrated by: Julia Franklin
- Length: 16 hrs and 18 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Only 25 and newly crowned, Elizabeth vows to rule the country as both queen and king. But her counselors continually press her to form an advantageous marriage and produce an heir. Though none of the suitors have yet worked their way to her throne, the dashing - though married - Lord Robert lays claim to Elizabeth's heart.
-
-
Not my favorite Alison Weir Fiction
- By Michelle Hamlett on 07-13-15
By: Alison Weir
-
The Royal Game
- By: Anne O'Brien
- Narrated by: Jilly Bond
- Length: 13 hrs and 58 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
England, 1444. Three women who came from nowhere to challenge the course of history. King Henry VI’s grip on the crown hangs by a thread as the Wars of the Roses begin to tear England apart. Everyone must choose between York or Lancaster. And from the ashes of war, the House of Paston begins its rise to power. Led by three visionary women, the Pastons are a family from humble peasant beginnings who rely upon cunning, raw ambition and good fortune in order to survive.
By: Anne O'Brien
-
A Tapestry of Treason
- By: Anne O'Brien
- Narrated by: Gloria Sanders
- Length: 16 hrs and 11 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
1399: Constance of York, Lady Despenser, proves herself more than a mere observer in the devious intrigues of her magnificently dysfunctional family, the House of York. Surrounded by power-hungry men, including her aggressively self-centred husband, Thomas, and ruthless siblings, Edward and Richard, Constance places herself at the heart of two treasonous plots against King Henry IV. Will it be possible for this Plantagenet family to safeguard its own political power by restoring either King Richard II to the throne, or the precarious Mortimer claimant?
-
-
Fascinating story
- By Janet on 09-02-19
By: Anne O'Brien
-
The Serpent and the Pearl
- Borgias, Book 1
- By: Kate Quinn
- Narrated by: Leila Birch, Maria Elena Infantino, Ronan Vibert
- Length: 16 hrs and 39 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Rome, 1492: The Holy City is drenched with blood and teeming with secrets. A pope lies dying and the throne of God is left vacant, a prize awarded only to the most virtuous - or the most ruthless. The Borgia family begins its legendary rise, chronicled by an innocent girl who finds herself drawn into their dangerous web.... Vivacious Giulia Farnese has floor-length golden hair and the world at her feet: beauty, wealth, and a handsome young husband. But she is stunned to discover that her glittering marriage is a sham.
-
-
VERY INTERESTING TAKE ON THE BORGIAS
- By The Louligan on 08-24-13
By: Kate Quinn
-
The Confessions of Catherine de Medici
- A Novel
- By: C. W. Gortner
- Narrated by: Cassandra Campbell
- Length: 15 hrs and 58 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In this brilliantly imagined novel, acclaimed author C. W. Gortner brings Catherine to life in her own voice, allowing us to enter the intimate world of a woman whose determination to protect her family’s throne and realm plunged her into a lethal struggle for power. From the fairy-tale chateaux of the Loire Valley to the battlefields of the wars of religion to the mob-filled streets of Paris, this is the extraordinary untold journey of one of the most maligned and misunderstood women ever to be queen.
-
-
Pretty good but historical details are terrible
- By Kindle Customer on 07-10-11
By: C. W. Gortner
-
The Winter Crown
- Eleanor of Aquitaine Trilogy, Book 2
- By: Elizabeth Chadwick
- Narrated by: Katie Scarfe
- Length: 18 hrs and 57 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Eleanor of Aquitaine, one of the most powerful women in Europe, is crowned queen of England beside her young husband Henry II. While Henry battles their enemies and lays his plans, Eleanor is an adept acting ruler and mother to their growing brood of children. But she yearns for more than this - if only Henry would listen. Instead, Henry pushes Eleanor to the sidelines, involving himself with a young mistress and denying Eleanor her rightful authority. As matters reach a crisis, Eleanor becomes caught up in a family rebellion. And even a queen must face the consequences of treason....
-
-
This series is more romance novel than history.
- By Kelly on 01-01-17
-
Captive Queen
- A Novel of Eleanor of Aquitaine
- By: Alison Weir
- Narrated by: Rosalyn Landor
- Length: 19 hrs and 21 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Renowned for her highly acclaimed and bestselling British histories, Alison Weir has in recent years made a major impact on the fiction scene with her novels about Queen Elizabeth and Lady Jane Grey. In this latest offering, she imagines the world of Eleanor of Aquitaine, the beautiful twelfth-century woman who was queen of France until she abandoned her royal husband for the younger man who would become king of England.
-
-
Why the Negativity?
- By E. Willaims on 06-28-11
By: Alison Weir
-
Forever Amber
- By: Kathleen Winsor
- Narrated by: Elizabeth Jasicki
- Length: 42 hrs and 11 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Abandoned pregnant and penniless on the teeming streets of London, 16-year-old Amber St. Clare manages, by using her wits, beauty, and courage, to climb to the highest position a woman could achieve in Restoration England - that of favorite mistress of the Merry Monarch, Charles II. From whores and highwaymen to courtiers and noblemen, from events such as the Great Plague and the Fire of London to the intimate passions of ordinary - and extraordinary - men and women, Amber experiences it all.
-
-
Wonderful memories from the 60s
- By Amazon Customer Yumasavellz on 04-28-20
By: Kathleen Winsor
-
The Agincourt Bride
- By: Joanna Hickson
- Narrated by: Catherine Harvey
- Length: 16 hrs and 42 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
When her own first child is tragically still-born, the young Mette is pressed into service as a wet-nurse at the court of the mad king, Charles VI of France. Her young charge is the princess, Catherine de Valois, caught up in the turbulence and chaos of life at court. Mette and the child forge a bond, one that transcends Mette’s lowly position. But as Catherine approaches womanhood, her unique position seals her fate as a pawn between two powerful dynasties.
-
-
Disappointing
- By Michelle on 02-16-13
By: Joanna Hickson