The Lionheart’s Bride (Berengaria of Navarre Medieval Trilogy)
This 12th-century historical adventure follows Princess Berengaria on her quest to catch up with and marry Richard I, King of England, as he journeys to fight in the Third Crusade. When Eleanor of Aquitaine discovers her husband, King Henry II, has bedded their son’s betrothed, she secretly travels to the Kingdom of Navarre to negotiate an agreement for Berengaria to marry Richard. Berengaria accompanies Eleanor on a trek through France, across the Alps, and into Italy to find the lionheart crusader. They continue their odyssey to Sicily, where Richard’s sister, Joan, joins them. Storms, battles, and enemies threaten to stand in their way of finding the elusive bridegroom. The ending has an unexpected twist when the couple finally connect with each other.
Author Austin Hernon has captured key historical moments of Richard warring and conquering other kingdoms on his way to the Holy Land. The book realistically depicts the difficulty of traveling by horseback on land and sailing by ships during the Middle Ages. The plot is fast paced, with each chapter introducing new characters and places such as the island of Cyprus and the towering walls of Carcassonne. The narrative is told from the first-person point of view of Berengaria. She comes across as a dispassionate observer, providing little insight into herself and other major historical figures who impact the political turmoil during the Crusades. Without her emotional resonance, it is difficult to engage with the plights of Berengaria and other characters.
The Lionheart’s Bride will appeal to those who enjoy reading about lesser-known medieval historical figures.
