Myself, My Enemy

Myself, My Enemy cover
Good Books rating 3.6
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Technical
  • ID: 6878
  • Added: 2025-12-05
  • Updated: 2025-12-05
  • ISBN: 9781448150496
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2012-08-16
  • Reviews: 3

Myself, My Enemy is the first volume in the Queens of England series by one of the country's most widely read novelists. It delves into the life of Queen Henrietta Maria, a woman of strong faith and devotion, whose Catholicism puts her at odds with the Protestant England of her time. Her impetuous nature and love for fashionable clothes and gossip contrast with her husband Charles's principled and devoted character. Their marriage, though controversial, is a testament to their love and loyalty to each other. However, as Henrietta's enemies swarm and spies infiltrate her household, their happy marriage is threatened, and the road to regicide looms large. The novel explores themes of faith, loyalty, and the personal sacrifices made for love and principle. /n/n The story is set against the backdrop of 17th-century England, a time of religious and political upheaval. Henrietta's refusal to cast aside her Catholicism makes her a target, and she is soon renounced as a puppet of Rome. The novel vividly portrays the dangers and intrigues of the time, as well as the personal struggles of the royal couple. As the threats against Henrietta mount, her loyalty and love for Charles become the only hope of keeping him from the path of regicide. The novel is a compelling blend of historical fiction and personal drama, offering a glimpse into the lives of two of England's most fascinating historical figures.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2025-12-05
enjoyable 3.80

The book is praised for making history digestible and enjoyable, with a rating of 3.8 out of 5.

The reviewer appreciates how the book makes history more accessible and enjoyable. The narrative is engaging and well-crafted, making it a thoroughly enjoyable read. The historical context is brought to life in a way that is both informative and entertaining, making it a standout in historical fiction.


Quick quotes

    Plaidy never disappoints.

    Can't get enough of Plaidy.

    Another thoroughly enjoyable read by.

The Storygraph · 2025-12-05
intriguing 3.00

The portrayal of Queen Henrietta Maria is seen as deeply narcissistic and zealous, with repetitive reflections that still make the book enjoyable.

The reviewer finds the character of Queen Henrietta Maria to be deeply narcissistic and a Catholic zealot, which adds a layer of complexity to the narrative. While the reflections on her life can be repetitive, the overall reading experience is enjoyable. The book provides a unique perspective on historical events, making it a compelling read despite its flaws.


Quick quotes

    Plaidy's take on Queen Henrietta Maria is deeply narcissistic & a Catholic zealot.

    Her reflections on her life are repetitive at times but I enjoyed this as ...

    Plaidy's take on Queen Henrietta Maria is deeply narcissistic & a Catholic zealot.

Royal Intrigue Blog · 2009-11-24
emotional 4.00

The novel is vividly described and filled with emotion, making it a preferred read.

The reviewer is captivated by the vivid descriptions and emotional depth of the novel. The first-person narrative brings the story to life, making it a compelling and preferred read. The emotional resonance of the characters and their experiences adds a layer of authenticity to the historical context.


Quick quotes

    This novel is told in the first person and so vividly described and filled with emotion that it definitely has become another of my preferred ...

    This novel is told in the first person and so vividly described and filled with emotion that it definitely has become another of my preferred ...

    This novel is told in the first person and so vividly described and filled with emotion that it definitely has become another of my preferred ...

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