"The Girl of Many Crowns" by D.H. Morris
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Editorial Review
In The Girl of Many Crowns, DH Morris transports readers to 856 Flanders, where the life of young Judith of Francia unfolds against a turbulent backdrop of political ambition and personal struggle. Judith’s father, determined to cement alliances through her marriages, orchestrates not one but two unions for her. When he demands a third, Judith’s refusal becomes the heart of this gripping tale. As she contends with her father’s wrath, the constraints of her time, and her growing feelings for the warrior Baldwin Iron Arm, Judith’s journey becomes one of defiance and the pursuit of agency in a world designed to suppress her will.
Morris’s narrative is steeped in historical detail, immersing readers in a Europe shaped by shifting allegiances and the rise of dynasties. The attention to historical accuracy is evident, offering insights into the customs and power structures that governed Judith’s world. While some readers may find this wealth of context enriching, others might feel the pacing slows as historical exposition occasionally overshadows the story’s momentum.
Judith is an arresting protagonist, her quest for self-determination both courageous and deeply relatable. She navigates her circumstances with intelligence and resolve, her strength tempered by moments of vulnerability that make her journey all the more compelling. Her relationship with Baldwin is particularly well-drawn, blending the realism of historical constraints with a timeless portrayal of love and mutual respect.
The novel’s use of multiple perspectives provides depth, allowing readers to witness events from the viewpoints of various characters. However, the dialogue sometimes lacks variation, with characters speaking in voices that feel too similar. Despite this, the story’s emotional resonance and richly drawn characters shine through.
In The Girl of Many Crowns, Morris breathes life into Judith of Francia, capturing her personal battles against a backdrop of shifting power and tradition. This is a story of resilience, independence, and love, brought to life with historical authenticity and emotional depth. Judith’s journey is both a testament to her era and a timeless exploration of a woman’s fight to shape her own destiny. A vivid and memorable read.
4 stars – Xanadu Book Awards
A native of San Diego, California, D. H. Morris has lived on four continents and traveled through many countries. She has four children and eleven grandchildren and currently lives in Kansas City, Missouri. She graduated from Utah State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre and Choral Music education and pursued graduate work in English at USU and law at the University of Utah. She is also a published playwright.
As a descendant of Judith and Baldwin, the author discovered their intriguing story while doing a genealogical project. This journey inspired her to research everything about the 9th Century – including food, politics, travel, war, education, clothing, jewelry, religion, holidays, marriage customs, and medicine. She loves talking about this remarkable time in history when the European countries we know today were being formed and fighting for their very existence.
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