A captivating read, rich in seamless historical detail and strong, memorable characters. The innocent little heroine wins our immediate sympathy when, at fourteen, she is married to handsome, homosexual Edward the Second of England. We pity her more and more as she is shamed and neglected in favour of his male lovers. But Isabella quickly wins our admiration as she matures into womanhood. We then cheer her on as she courageously defies her weak but stubborn husband and, with her lover, Sir Roger Mortimer, begins to plot against him. Her narrator's voice is compelling and likeable, while Mortimer's conveys the strength and sensitivity that Edward sadly lacks. An irresistable 'must'for all historical fiction fans. Highly recommended.