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Two destined rivals fall desperately in love—but the fate of medieval Europe hangs in the balance. “A pair of thrones between us, and my heart clutched like a rosary within his hands ...” Twelfth-century Europe. Newly-crowned King Philip of France is determined to restore his nation to its former empire and bring glory to his name. But when his greatest enemy, King Henry of England, threatens to end his reign before it can even begin, Philip is forced to make a precarious alliance with Henry’s volatile son—risking both his throne, and his heart. Richard, Duke of Aquitaine, never thought he would be King. But when an unexpected tragedy makes him heir to England, he finally has an opportunity to overthrow the father he despises. At first, Philip is a useful tool in his quest for vengeance... until passion and politics collide, and Richard begins to question whether the crown is worth the cost. When Philip and Richard find themselves staring down an impending war, they must choose between their desire for one another and their grand ambitions. Will their love prevail, if it calls to them from across the battlefield? Teeming with royal intrigue and betrayal, this epic romance reimagines two real-life kings ensnared by an impossible choice: Follow their hearts, or earn their place in history.
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**I was provided an electronic ARC from the publisher through NetGalley.**
Actual rating: 4.5 stars
Natasha Siegel's debut historical fiction novel, Solomon's Crown, reimagines history where King Philip II of France and Richard, Duke of Aquitaine, have far more than rumors to their alleged relationship. Siegel acknowledges a bit (read as: a lot) of fast and loose play with historical events, though she is certainly well researched in her telling.
Tonally reminiscent of The Song of Achilles, where Achilles and Patroclus are inevitable, Richard and Philip are impossible. Siegel establishes a political landscape where Richard and Philip should be forever at odds and must constantly make the decision to choose one another again and again. The development of the relationship between them and the constant pressure of Philip's throne and Richard's family makes for the slowest of burns. The world is in constant motion around them and they can only find peace in each other.
Ordinarily, I might be frustrated with the inaccuracies and the liberties taken, but Siegel wrote the absolute crap out of the character development. Much as Richard and Philip could set politics aside for their love, I was so invested in their relationship that any errors or changes made by the author seemed not to matter.
This book is quiet, quotable, and is deeply felt. Now I just have to wait for the prettiest edition to buy for myself and to force my friends to read it on release.
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