Isabeau
A Novel of Queen Isabella and Sir Roger Mortimer
by N. Gemini Sasson
The story of Queen Isabella, who sought revenge on her husband Edward II, and her lover Sir Roger Mortimer, who masterminded the invasion that accomplished it.
The marriage of Isabella of France and Edward II of England in 1308 is a union meant to secure lasting peace. For years, Isabella is a loyal wife, who repeatedly salvages her husband’s kingship, even as she endures his neglect. When she finally speaks out against Edward’s favorite, Lord Hugh Despenser, her income, lands and children are taken from her. In an age when women are not supposed to openly defy their husbands, Isabella vows to get her children back and have her revenge on Despenser – no matter what the cost.
Imprisoned in the Tower of London for leading a rebellion against King Edward, Mortimer escapes with Isabella’s help and finds refuge in the French court. But when Isabella arrives in Paris to negotiate a peace treaty, it is a temptation the ambitious Mortimer cannot resist.
(129,000 words; available as ebook and print)
“[A] complex novel that keeps a fast pace as it goes from court scene to battle to family scenes. It speeds from treacherous nobles to loving loyalty, from dungeon to palace.” —J.R. Tomlin, author of A Kingdom’s Cost and Freedom’s Sword
