I read this ARC for an honest review
All thoughts and opinions are mine


Loved this
Set in Tuscany - it has all the things I love about historical fiction
This is the second part of a series and I didn't know that when I started but it has made me realise I need to read the first part but I did enjoy this

Matilda of Canossa, one of three strong female characters in this book, is the main character in this exciting historical fiction novel. Her cultural legacy includes many monuments (over 100 cathedrals) listed by UNESCO, a few of which I’ve been fortunate enough to visit over the last 10 years. So, I was very excited to come upon this novel and to delve into the rich history of Matilda’s early life.

Lara Byrne, in her extensive research, has brought Matilda to life showing her strength in character and her known history as a female warrior. I am ready and waiting to read about her legacy in Byrne’s next novel! Don’t pass this one up…. it’s a must if you enjoy medieval history!

Very well researched story of an amazing woman, the granddaughter of Charlemagne, and how she became one of the most powerful women in history. As a young women, Mathilde, Countess of Tuscany enters into an arranged marriage (as was common) but with an unusual term in her betrothal contract...a clause of non consummation. After a brutal violation of the contract Mathilde flees her abusive husband, who only wants her because of the property and power she brings and takes refuge at the court of King Heinrich, to whom she owes fealty. Mathilde is a trained warrior and well educated woman, and her mother Beatrice is equally so, and powerful politically in her own right. At it’s heart, Lotharingia is the story of a series of powerful and brilliant women in 11th century in Europe, particularly Mathilde who fights for what is rightfully hers. Engrossing, entertaining, well written, Lotharingia is well worth the read and shouldn’t be missed!

This book caught my imagination from the beginning and did not disappoint. It is the second part of a series of three so would love to read the full series. Historical fiction at it’s very best and a highly recommended read.

Lotharingia picks up story of Mathilde, Countess of Tuscany and granddaughter of Charlemagne as she enters adulthood. It combines arranged marriages, conflicts between the church and court, spies, battles, abusive husbands, miscarriages, secrets, deceptions, religious relics and prophecies. It has a little of everything.
I struggled in the beginning. I started, stopped and restarted several times. I do not know if it was me not connecting to the story or if was the typeset. Much of the first part of the book especially parts about Charlemagne was run together with no space or periods. It was a challenge to read. Once I started and stayed with the story I could not stop reading.
Lara Byrne’s research and knowledge of the time period is unbelievable. I cannot image the time she spent just researching. She paints the scenes so well that I could picture myself being there. I am looking for to a sequel to learn more of Mathilde’s historic life and legacy mixed with a little fiction.
Thank you to the Lara Byrne and NetGalley for opportunity to preview the book.

I appreciate the publisher allowing me to read this book. I really enjoyed reading it the plot was interesting and the characters made me want to know more about them. I highly recommend.