Clemence of Hungary is finally on her way from Naples to France to marry
Louis X. The trip is a treacherous one as her ship is battered by a
storm and it constantly rains while she is on the road. Meantime Louis
prepares to attack his subjects to the north of Paris in Flanders, who
refuse to submit to his rule. Unfortunately rains prevent any battles.
The marriage of Louis and Clemence is a rushed affair so that he can
have her as his Queen when he is coronated in Rheims shortly afterwards.
Now, due to the scheming of Robert of Artois, France is on the verge
of civil war. Louis must arbitrate.
At this time, Clemence learns of how Louis's first wife died. She wants
him to go on a pilgrimage with her to beg forgiveness. After the
pilgrimage to Amiens, the hope is that the queen will become pregnant.
Will the comet seen in the night sky augur well for the pair? Or does
it have other serious portents?
Once again author Maurice Druon has made historical fiction real. His
novel brings to life the royal family of France. The trials and
tribulations of Louis X are presented in a fascinating manner. Well
researched and documented. A very good read.
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