Matilda II: The Forgotten Queen by Joanna Arman

 Joanna Arman's mother told her that her book was unputdownable, and indeed it is! It's strange that this likeable Queen, much beloved in her time, as been forgotten about, because she is certainly fascinating. Although some of the book is speculation, the author makes this highly-educated and intelligent Queen shine.

Matilda spent time in a convent as a girl, and was very upset about one of the nuns being cruel to her. In spite of this, she was accused of secretly being a nun herself, which supposedly cursed her marriage to Henry1! She was extremely pious, founding churches and helping charities, but there was no evidence that she was a secret nun. Matilda sometimes acted as regent when Henry was away, signing charters, and helping to administer the realm. She also may have been better-educated than Henry, helping hin with his legal reforms. She was also an excellent mother to her children, and even to Henry's illegitimate children, in some cases.

Matilda had to put up with a lot from Henry, who had many affairs. One of the most famous was with an attractive young woman called Nest. However, she and Henry appeared to get on well, and have a reasonably happy marriage. He was devastated when she died.

I especially liked the stories about Matilda's correspondence with Archbishop Anselm, and other high-ranking clerics. This is when her interesting personality really shows itself.

I received this free ebook from NetGalley in return for an honest review.