KATHERINE SWYNFORD

Little is documented about Katherine Swynford, the dynamic mistress of John of Gaunt, both antecedents of British royalty. Alison Weir's gripping historical exploration describes one of the greatest love stories of medieval England. The fourteenth century comes to life in Judith Boyd's narration. She indicates Weir's bibliographic quotes with perfect pauses, leaving no doubt each time that we are being treated to a research note. Boyd's lilting vocal quality shows she clearly relishes departures of speculation and Weir's rendering of daily life. The complexities and intricacies of the period's social orbits in court not only entertain, but are clarified. While possessing an exquisite British accent, Boyd's beautiful French and Italian pronunciations further captivate the listener. A.W. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2008]