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  • The Summer Queen

  • Eleanor of Aquitaine Trilogy, Book 1
  • Written by: Elizabeth Chadwick
  • Narrated by: Katie Scarfe
  • Length: 18 hrs and 19 mins
  • 4.5 out of 5 stars (29 ratings)

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The Summer Queen cover art

The Summer Queen

Written by: Elizabeth Chadwick
Narrated by: Katie Scarfe
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Publisher's Summary

Eleanor of Aquitaine.

A loving mother. A betrayed wife. A queen beyond compare.

Eleanor of Aquitaine's story is legendary. She is an icon who has fascinated readers for over 800 years. But the real Eleanor remains elusive - until now. Based on the most up-to-date research, best-selling novelist Elizabeth Chadwick brings Eleanor's magnificent story to life, as never before.

Young, vibrant, privileged, Eleanor's future is golden as the heiress to wealthy Aquitaine. But when her beloved father dies suddenly in the summer of 1137, her childhood ends abruptly. Forced to marry the young prince Louis of France, Eleanor is still struggling to adjust to her new role when Louis' father dies and they become King and Queen of France. Leaving everything behind, the vivacious Eleanor must face the complex and faction-riddled French court. She is only 13.

Overflowing with scandal, politics, sex, triumphs and tragedies, The Summer Queen is the first novel in a stunning trilogy from award-winning and much-loved author Elizabeth Chadwick

©2013 Elizabeth Chadwick (P)2013 Hachette Audio

What the critics say

"An author who makes history come gloriously alive." (The Times)

"Meticulous research and strong storytelling." (Woman & Home)

"A sumptuous ride." (Toby Clements, Daily Telegraph

What listeners say about The Summer Queen

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Good read.

I enjoyed listening to this book. The narrator’s voice was soothing and a perfect fit for the story, although it was hilarious how she pronounced the French names. The author used a few tricks too often, for example a messenger coming in with news, to build excitement. The characters were a tad shallow but still enjoyable. Good book if you want to escape reality.

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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

A very interesting listen

I love historical fiction. It is not for the reader to judge historical people against today’s norms. It is a well written story and I look forward to listening to book 2.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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excellent reading

A wonderful story.
The author brings historical characters alive and interesting. makes you want to read on!

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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Great portrayal of a great woman

This book was a joy to listen too! Elizabeth Chadwick takes the story of a great woman and applies logic in respect in gaps of history.

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