Item: Solomon's Crown
Rating: 4.00
Author: quirkycat

by Natasha Siegel

“This sumptuous romance explores the relationship between Philip II of France and Richard the Lionheart. . . . Betrayal and tragedy lurk around every corner, yet there are moments of breathtaking loveliness.”—The New York Times Book Review (Editors’ Choice)

“Absolutely captivating and wonderfully romantic . . . I didn’t want to put this book down, even when it had ended.”—Rainbow Rowell, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Simon Snow Trilogy

Two rival kings fall desperately in love—but the fate of medieval Europe hangs in the balance.

Twelfth-century Europe. Newly crowned King Philip of France is determined to restore his nation to its former empire and bring glory to his name. But when his greatest enemy, King Henry of England, threatens to end his reign before it can even begin, Philip is forced to make a precarious alliance with Henry’s volatile son—risking both his throne, and his heart.

Richard, Duke of Aquitaine, never thought he would be king. But when an unexpected tragedy makes him heir to England’s royal seat, he finally has an opportunity to overthrow the father he despises. At first, Philip is a useful tool in his quest for vengeance . . . until passion and politics collide, and Richard begins to question whether the crown is worth the cost.

When Philip and Richard find themselves staring down an impending war, they must choose between their desire for each other and their grand ambitions. Will their love prevail if it calls to them from across the battlefield? Teeming with royal intrigue and betrayal, this epic romance reimagines two real-life kings ensnared by an impossible choice: Follow their hearts, or earn their place in history.

Book Summary:

King Philip has newly been crowned the king of France. His one goal is to help restore his nation, a task easier said than done. Unfortunately, not everyone will help make this plan come to fruition. Take King Henry of England. He has plenty of reasons (and resources) to make this an impossible goal.

Then there's Richard, Duke of Aquitaine. Yet here he is, sitting as the heir to the throne of England. While this isn't what he wanted, it does put him in a position to bring change to the world – the sort of change he's always wanted.

My Review:

Apparently, I've been on a historical fiction/fantasy kick lately! Solomon's Crown is the latest in a series of books I've picked, all of which delve into the past – with unique twists. In the case of Solomon's Crown, that means we have more representation, a rivals-to-lovers trope, and so much more.

In truth, I'm not entirely sure what genre I would label Solomon's Crown as. It defies the standards of historical fiction, and I love how it breaks the mold and creates a new one.

Let us not forget that this book is full to the brim (and I do mean that) of political intrigue. Seriously, a lot is going on. I had to write notes to ensure I kept track of everything (admittedly, history is not my strong suit).

This book is probably not for you if you're looking for a historically accurate story. This is very much a book of fiction, with facts strewn about. So you may be frustrated if you're hoping for something else.

Highlights:
Romantic Fiction
LGBTQ+

Trigger Warnings:
Anxiety
Murder/War

Thanks to Dell and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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Solomon's Crown

by Natasha Siegel

Reviewed by Quirky Cat on Jul 3, 2023

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