The Serpent Garden

by Judith Merkle Riley
The Serpent Garden cover
Good Books rating 3.93
Historical Fiction
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  • ID: 6478
  • Added: 2025-11-18
  • Updated: 2025-11-18
  • ISBN: 9780140258806
  • Publisher: Penguin (Non-Classics)
  • Published: 1997-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

In this enthralling historical mystery, Susanna Dallet, a talented painter, finds herself in the midst of political and supernatural intrigue after the death of her husband. Placed in the entourage of the princess bride of the French king, Susanna unknowingly carries a secret that will draw her into a dangerous game of power and deception. /n/n Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous reign of Henry VIII, the story blends suspense, romance, and a touch of the occult, creating a rich tapestry of historical fiction that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Reviews
Historical Fiction · 2015-05-31
engaging 4.50

This novel is a perfect combination of political intrigue, mystery, and the occult. The most surprising aspect is how well it balances these elements.

The reviewer was impressed by the novel's ability to blend political intrigue, mystery, and the occult seamlessly. They found the balance between these elements to be particularly surprising and well-executed. The story keeps the reader engaged with its twists and turns, making it a compelling read. The reviewer also appreciated the historical accuracy and the way the supernatural elements are woven into the narrative. Overall, it's a book that stands out for its unique combination of genres and its engaging storytelling.

Quick quotes

    This novel is a perfect combination of political intrigue, mystery and the occult.

    I think the most surprising thing about it is that it's so well-balanced.

    The story keeps the reader engaged with its twists and turns, making it a compelling read.

Dear Author · 2008-10-23
detailed 3.50

The book is rich in detail, sometimes overwhelmingly so, with elaborate descriptions of clothing and settings. The narrative is engaging, though the pace can be slow at times.

The reviewer found the book to be rich in detail, which at times can feel overwhelming. The descriptions of clothing and settings are particularly elaborate, which might slow down the pace for some readers. However, the narrative is engaging and the historical context is well-researched. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the world-building but notes that it might not be for everyone, especially those looking for a faster-paced story. Overall, it's a book that rewards patience and attention to detail.

Quick quotes

    The book is rich in detail – sometimes almost too rich as we often get a run down on the fabulous clothes of the rich and famous every single time they appear.

    The narrative is engaging, though the pace can be slow at times.

    The historical context is well-researched and the world-building is impressive.

Reading the Past · 2008-02-19
humorous 3.80

Susanna Dallet's droll, irreverent narration is a highlight of the book. The writing style and humorous tone make it a enjoyable read.

The reviewer highlights Susanna Dallet's droll and irreverent narration as one of the standout features of the book. They found the writing style to be engaging and the humorous tone to be particularly enjoyable. This makes the book a delightful read, even if the plot might not be as strong. The reviewer appreciates the unique voice of the protagonist and how it adds depth to the story. Overall, it's a book that is worth picking up for its narrative style and humor.

Quick quotes

    Susanna Dallet's droll, irreverent narration is just one of the reasons to pick up Judith Merkle Riley's The Serpent Garden.

    The writing style is engaging and the humorous tone is particularly enjoyable.

    The unique voice of the protagonist adds depth to the story.

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