The Heart of the Lion by Jean Plaidy

“The Heart of the Lion” is a historical novel written by Jean Plaidy, the pen name of British author Eleanor Hibbert. The book is part of Plaidy’s historical fiction series known as “The Plantagenet Saga,” which explores the history of the Plantagenet dynasty, a prominent royal family in medieval England.

“The Heart of the Lion” focuses on the life and reign of King Richard I of England, commonly known as Richard the Lionheart. Richard I was a charismatic and fearless warrior king who ruled from 1189 to 1199. He is perhaps best known for his involvement in the Third Crusade and his reputation as a chivalrous and valiant knight.

Jean Plaidy’s novel provides readers with a fictionalized account of Richard’s life, including his military campaigns in the Holy Land, his tumultuous relationship with his mother, Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine, and his complex interactions with other historical figures of the time, such as his nemesis, King Philip II of France, and his sister, Queen John of Sicily.

As with many of Jean Plaidy’s historical novels, “The Heart of the Lion” combines well-researched historical details with dramatic storytelling, bringing to life the personalities and events of the era. The novel explores themes of power, politics, family dynamics, and the challenges of ruling a kingdom during a tumultuous period in history.