Lady of the Rivers by Philippa Gregory
smooth cover of Lady of the Rivers by Philippa Gregory. First book in the Plantagenet and Tudor NovelsDescended from Melusina, the river goddess, Jacquetta has always had the gift of second sight. As a child visiting her uncle, she meets his prisoner, Joan of Arc, and recognizes her own power in the young woman accused of witchcraft. They share the mystery of the tarot card of the 'wheel of fortune' before Joan is taken to a horrific death at the hands of the English rulers of France. Jacquetta understands the danger for a woman who dares to dream.Married to the Duke of Bedford, English Regent of France, Jacquetta is introduced by him to a mysterious world of learning and alchemy. Her only friend in the fabulous household is the Duke's squire Richard Woodville, who is at her side when the Duke's death leaves her a wealthy young widow...