The Lady Queen

The Notorious Reign of Joanna I, Queen of Naples, Jerusalem, and Sicily

By: Nancy Goldstone

Narrated by: Christine Lakin

The riveting history of a beautiful queen, a shocking murder, a papal trial -- and a reign as triumphant as any in the Middle Ages.

On March 15, 1348, twenty-two-year-old Joanna I, Queen of Naples, stood trial for the murder of her husband before the Pope and his court in Avignon. Determined to defend herself, Joanna won her acquittal against overwhelming odds. Victorious, she returned to Naples and ruled over one of Europe's most prestigious courts for the next three decades -- until she herself was killed.

Courageous and determined, Joanna was the only female monarch in her time to rule in her own name. She was widely admired: dedicated to the welfare of her subjects, she reduced crime, built hospitals and churches, and encouraged the licensing of female physicians. A procession of the most important artists and writers of the time frequented her glittering court. But she never quite escaped the stain of her husband's death, and the turmoil of the times surrounded her -- war, plague, and treachery would ultimately be her undoing.

With skill, passion, and impeccable research and detail, Nancy Goldstone brings to life one of history's most remarkable women. The Lady Queen is a captivating portrait of medieval royalty in all its incandescent complexity.

Great book of history and great performance

Loved the performance and the story. Queen Joana of Naples had a historic reign largely forgotten by history. It was very historic to be sure

Real life Game of Thrones

Joanna Queen of Naples story is compelling, dramatic, and profound. I am awed by it!

Absolutely maddening narration

Nancy Goldstone’s books are always well researched, well written, and entertaining. She deserves a better narrator. If one can pronounce Petrarch’s name correctly 10% of the time, there is nothing to prevent its correct pronunciation the other 90% of the time. And no one has ever pronounced Ghibellines like that. This bad narration seriously impeded my enjoyment of this otherwise excellent book.

super dope

They need to make a movie about this woman. An incredible life dramatic to the last page.

Enjoyed

Excellent book! The narrator was great, and the writing was engaging. Everyone should know about Joanna I-an amazing woman!