Katherine by Anya Seton

Final Rating: 4.3/5

   It seems to be the summer of rediscovered classics for this reader and if those interested have been searching for a historical delight for their troubled mind and an elegant story to just lose themselves in for hours, may I suggest Katherine by Anya Seton. Published in 1954 this story encompasses poignant writing and thorough research that takes the reader straight into the 14th century and walks them through the court of Edward III and finishes with the struggling reign of Richard II. Katherine de Roet is the focus of this novel and the reader follows her journey from a charity ward of Queen Philippa to a lady of quality and of legend.

   Her awe-inspiring relationship and fortune of timing is one that may appeal to those who want to believe in fate and certainty. Whether or not the reader believes in portents and auspicious stars of destiny matters little because Ms. Seton eventually leaves the reader applauding her defined research and delivery of facts that captures practically everything under the medieval sun. Katherine has a little delight for every reader. Some may ask is this a story of historical love? Or is Katherine basically about carnal desire set to the backdrop of 14th-century England? Ultimately that lasting impression is up to those who are patient enough to find out.

-Reviewed in August 2014, review written August 2014/ copy of KATHERINE borrowed from local library