YOUNG QUEENS Three Renaissance Women and the Price of Power

Olivia Dowd is so good at delivering this history that it's like listening to a historical novel set in the sixteenth century. Dowd gives each woman a unique voice in this true account of the lives of Catherine de' Medici, Queen of France; her daughter, Elisabeth de Valois, Queen of Spain; and Catherine's daughter-in-law, Mary, Queen of Scots. The production provides hours of captivating listening. Dowd's tone and intelligence make clear how these three women were able to influence history in a misogynistic world. With Elizabeth I on the English throne, the other three queens engage in intrigues and deadly plots to gain power. History buffs will welcome this well-researched, well-written, superbly performed behind-the-scenes glimpse of four royal courts in constant turmoil. S.J.H. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2023]