Title: The Constant Princess
Author: Philippa Gregory
First published December 1, 2005
390 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780743272490 (ISBN10: 0743272498)
Rating: 3.92
Overview
Independent and feisty, Amelia has no interest in playing the games of the ton. So when her godmother arranges a Season for her, she’s determined to make the best of it and return to her quiet life in the country.
But things take an unexpected turn when she meets the dashing Lord Sinclair, the most eligible bachelor in London. Sinclair is a notorious rake who cares only for pleasure and has no interest in settling down.
But to Amelia’s surprise, he takes her under his wing and teaches her the ways of the ton. As she navigates the treacherous waters of high society, Amelia finds herself drawn to Sinclair’s wit and charm.
But when she discovers that he’s only using her to make his ex-lover jealous, she’s heartbroken. Will Amelia be able to see past Sinclair’s façade and find the man underneath?
This novel contains mature content and is not suitable for readers under the age of 17. With a word count of 72,000, it is a thrilling read that will keep you hooked until the very end!
About the Author
Philippa Gregory is a renowned writer of historical fiction. She began her writing career by crafting her first novel, Wideacre, while working towards her PhD in eighteenth-century literature.
The book went on to become a global sensation, revolutionizing the historical fiction genre with her unique blend of history and imagination.
Philippa’s passion for women’s history has earned her widespread recognition. She obtained her degree from the University of Sussex and later received a PhD from the University of Edinburgh, where she now sits as a Regent and was named Alumna of the Year in 2009.
She has been honored with degrees from Teesside University and the University of Sussex, as well as fellowships from the Universities of Sussex and Cardiff, and a research fellowship at Birkbeck University of London.
As a member of the Society of Authors, Philippa was awarded the Outstanding Contribution to Historical Fiction Award by the Historical Writers’ Association in 2016. She was also presented with an Honorary Platinum Award by Nielsen in 2018, recognizing her lifetime achievement in book sales.
Philippa welcomes visitors to her website and encourages readers to connect with her on Facebook.
Editoral Review
The Constant Princess by Philippa Gregory is a historical fiction novel that explores the life of Katherine of Aragon, the first wife of King Henry VIII. Philippa Gregory is a renowned historical fiction author, known for her ability to bring history to life through her immersive storytelling.
The genre of the novel is historical fiction with a focus on the Tudor era, and the themes revolve around love, power, and politics. The plot of the novel revolves around Katherine of Aragon, who is sent to marry Prince Arthur of England at the age of sixteen.
However, Arthur dies shortly after their marriage, and Katherine is left in limbo, awaiting the arrival of Prince Henry, Arthurs younger brother. As time passes, Katherine falls deeply in love with the charismatic Henry, but their romance is threatened by the swirling politics and power dynamics of the Tudor court.
They must navigate love, heartbreak, and betrayal as they try to hold onto their relationship and secure their place in history. The Constant Princess is a well-crafted novel that provides a fresh perspective on the Tudor era.
Philippa Gregory has a knack for immersing the reader in the period, drawing on meticulous research to create an authentic world. The characters are richly drawn, with complex motivations and desires that keep the reader invested in their story.
The books strengths lie in its pacing and plot structure. The story is well-paced, with an intriguing plot that keeps the reader engaged from start to finish.
The themes of love, power, and politics are woven throughout the narrative, providing a rich tapestry of plot points and conflicts. However, the books weaknesses lie in its character development.
While the main characters are well-developed, some of the secondary characters are somewhat lacking in depth. Additionally, the book is heavily focused on romance, often to the exclusion of other plot points.
This may not appeal to readers who are looking for a more action-packed historical fiction novel. Overall, The Constant Princess is a worthwhile read for fans of historical fiction, particularly the Tudor era.
Readers who enjoy richly drawn characters, immersive storytelling, and romantic themes will find much to enjoy in this novel. While it may not be for everyone, those who do read it will be rewarded with a vivid and engaging portrayal of one of historys most compelling figures.
Rating: 3.5/5
