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C.W. Gortner

The Last Queen

"The Last Queen" by C.W. Gortner is a captivating historical novel that brings to life the tumultuous and ultimately tragic story of Juana of Castile, the last queen of Spain's united kingdoms. Known to history as "Juana la Loca" or "Joanna the Mad," the queen has long been the subject of speculation and intrigue, and Gortner's vivid and evocative prose breathes new life into her oft-misunderstood tale. The novel opens in 1496, as the young Juana is preparing to leave her native Spain to marry the Archduke Philip of Burgundy, a union intended to strengthen the ties between the two powerful realms. From the outset, Juana is portrayed as a fiercely intelligent and independent-minded woman, determined to assert her own authority in the face of formidable opposition. As she navigates the treacherous waters of court politics and familial strife, Juana's indomitable spirit and unwavering resolve are both her greatest assets and her tragic downfall. Gortner's meticulously researched narrative paints a rich and nuanced portrait of Juana, revealing the complex and multifaceted nature of her character. The author deftly explores the many factors that contributed to Juana's eventual descent into madness, from the crushing weight of her responsibilities as queen to the devastating loss of her beloved husband and children. At the same time, Gortner challenges the notion that Juana was truly "mad," suggesting instead that her behavior was the result of a desperate and ultimately futile struggle to maintain her sanity and her grip on power in the face of overwhelming adversity. One of the most striking aspects of "The Last Queen" is Gortner's ability to evoke the sights, sounds, and smells of the historical settings in which the novel is set. From the opulent palaces of Spain and the Netherlands to the bustling streets of Flanders and the windswept cliffs of England, the author's vivid descriptions transport the reader to another time and place, immersing them in the rich and complex world of the past. In addition to its rich historical detail and compelling narrative, "The Last Queen" is also a deeply moving exploration of the human condition. Through the story of Juana, Gortner examines the universal themes of love, loss, and the indomitable human spirit, offering a poignant and thought-provoking meditation on the nature of power, madness, and the human heart. In conclusion, "The Last Queen" is a masterful work of historical fiction that is sure to captivate and enthrall readers from beginning to end. With its rich and evocative prose, compelling narrative, and deeply human themes, this novel is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of Spain, the Tudor dynasty, or the human condition itself. C.W. Gortner has truly outdone himself with this tour de force of historical storytelling, and readers will be left eagerly awaiting his next foray into the past...