Reign of Madness by Lynn Cullen

The story is set at the very end of the 15th century and beginning of the 16th century, during the time of Christopher Columbus’ discoveries. 

It is told through the eyes of Juana, daughter of Isabel and Ferdinand II of Spain. 

Isabel and Ferdinand are known for ruling Spain equally. Is it so? Young Juana observes that it’s more of her mom’s iron hand ruling the kingdom than his reserved, quiet father. There is something else that she notices about her father, which pains her.

When in Spain, the voice reflects the views of a young girl, fourteen year-old. 

She marries at seventeen and moves to Netherlands to marry Philippe, known as the Handsome. Her voice matures as she gets married and gives births and notices infidelities of her husband. Loneliness at foreign court and jealousy drives her to madness or is it just talk? A rumor of madness spreads throughout courts to serve a purpose to somebody…

The story is interesting and well-written. I enjoyed sharp-tongue of Dowager Duchess of Burgundy, third wife of Philippe’s grandfather. 

This is the fourth book I’ve read by this author. She researches subjects of those not so known or almost forgotten by history. I truly appreciate this kind of writers.

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