The Damask Rose

By: Carol McGrath

Narrated by: Clare Corbett

1266. Eleanor of Castile, adored wife of the Crown Prince of England, is still only a princess when she is held hostage in the brutal Baron's Rebellion and her baby daughter dies. Scarred by privation, a bitter Eleanor swears revenge on those who would harm her family - and vows never to let herself be vulnerable again.

As she rises to become queen, Eleanor keeps Olwen - a trusted herbalist, who tried to save her daughter - by her side. But it is dangerous to be friendless in a royal household, and as the court sets out on crusade, Olwen and Eleanor discover that the true battle for Europe may not be a matter of swords and lances, but one fanned by whispers and spies....

©2021 Carol McGrath (P)2020 W F Howes

Critic reviews

"Well-researched.... Fascinating." (Joanna Courtney)

"Beautifully done.... Captivating." (Suzannah Dunn)

"Rich, vivid and immersive.... Enthralling." (Nicola Cornick)

A h go pod example of telling not showing.

This book tells a list of dates and things that happened, with little character development or plot. Good research, but poor story.