Sex with the Queen: 900 Years of Vile Kings, Virile Lovers, and Passionate Politics : Book Review

"Sex with the Queen" by Eleanor Herman is a captivating and scandalous exploration of the intimate relationships between queens and their lovers throughout history. With meticulous research and a compelling narrative, Herman delves into the hidden corners of royal bedchambers, unveiling the power dynamics, scandalous affairs, and clandestine romances that shaped the lives of these influential women.

One of the remarkable strengths of this book is its ability to dismantle the traditional narratives surrounding queens and their sexuality. Herman challenges stereotypes and preconceptions, revealing that these women were not merely passive vessels for royal heirs, but complex individuals with desires and agency. By exploring the many facets of these relationships, from the political motivations behind marriages to the passionate affairs that unfolded behind closed doors, the book brings to life the realities of these queens' lives and exposes the double standards they faced.

Herman's writing style is engaging and accessible, effortlessly bringing historical facts to life on the page. The reader is transported back in time, vividly witnessing the sumptuous courts and boudoirs where these queens lived. Through skillful integration of primary sources, historical accounts, and anecdotes, the author paints a vivid picture of the tumultuous lives of these royal women.

What sets this book apart is its sensitivity and deep understanding of the historical context. While the subject matter may be provocative, Herman handles it with care, focusing on the nuances and complexities of these relationships rather than resorting to sensationalism. This nuanced approach allows readers to fully appreciate the impact these connections had on the lives of the queens and the wider political landscape.

In conclusion, "Sex with the Queen" is a captivating and informative exploration of the intimate relationships of queens throughout history. Eleanor Herman's meticulous research and engaging writing style make this book a must-read for anyone interested in uncovering the hidden stories behind the crowns.

What are readers saying?

"Sex with the Queen" by Eleanor Herman is an enthralling and captivating book that delves into the secretive and scandalous romantic lives of various queens throughout history. The book has garnered a mix of positive and critical reviews from readers, with an average rating of 3.75 stars.

Many readers praised Herman's extensive research and attention to detail, finding her narratives surrounding the queens' romantic relationships to be fascinating and enlightening. They greatly appreciated the inclusion of scandalous anecdotes and lively storytelling, which made the book both entertaining and informative.

Herman's ability to dispel common myths and misconceptions about these queens was also highly commended by reviewers. By revealing a more complex and human side to their lives, the author emphasized the queens' agency and sexual empowerment, challenging traditional perspectives and shedding light on the societal constraints they faced.

However, some readers felt that the book placed too much emphasis on the sexual aspects of the queens' lives, overshadowing their other significant contributions to history. This aspect was seen as repetitive and potentially sensationalistic by a few reviewers.

Furthermore, a small number of readers criticized the writing style for being overly casual or sensationalized, which they felt undermined the book's credibility and scholarly approach. They expressed a desire for a more academic tone and a stronger focus on historical context.

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