The Story

This book follows the turbulent life of Joan I, who became Queen of Naples as a teenager. It's not a peaceful reign. She's immediately surrounded by powerful men—her Hungarian relatives, the Pope, local nobles—all trying to control her and her kingdom. The core of the story revolves around the shocking death of her first husband, Andrew of Hungary, and the whirlwind of accusations, political maneuvering, and outright war that follows. Joan has to navigate this chaos, making strategic marriages and alliances just to keep her crown, while constantly wondering who she can really trust.

Why You Should Read It

Dumas has a gift for making history feel urgent and personal. He doesn't just give us dates and battles; he gives us a woman under immense pressure. Joan is clever, resilient, and sometimes ruthless—a protagonist you root for even when her decisions are questionable. The pace is relentless, full of sudden reversals and tense court intrigues. You get the grand spectacle Dumas is famous for, but focused on the psychological drama of a queen fighting for her right to rule.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who likes historical drama with a strong, flawed central character. If you enjoy stories about political games, where loyalties shift like the wind, you'll be hooked. It's a great pick for fans of Dumas's other work looking for a deep dive into a lesser-known historical figure. Fair warning: it might send you down a Wikipedia rabbit hole about 14th-century Italy afterward!