Naked: A Novel of Lady Godiva by Eliza Redgold

• Title:  Naked: A Novel of Lady Godiva
• Author:  Eliza Redgold
• Genre:  Historical Fiction
• Pages:  320
• Published:  July 2015 – St. Martin’s Griffin
• Source:  Publisher

Description:  We know her name. We know of her naked ride. We don’t know her true story. Lady Godiva is a true legend. She famously rode naked through the streets of Coventry, covered only by her long, flowing hair. She did this to convince her husband to lift a high tax on her people. But there is more to the story. Naked is Godiva’s tale with a twist. A tale of sensual passion, obsession, greed, and mercy, this epic retelling lays bare the lengths this legendary woman went to fight for what was right…and fight for her heart.  (back of the book)

My take:  Several weeks ago I posted a Spotlight about Naked: A Novel of Lady Godiva by Eliza Redgold. While I didn’t have time to read it then I knew as soon as my schedule opened up I would be diving into Godiva’s story.

As noted in the description above I knew the basics of Godiva’s story but not much else. Redgold’s version captivated me from the start. I loved the vivid descriptions of setting and era as well as the main characters and townspeople.

I learned about the danger and subterfuge that regularly challenged Godiva and her people. The Danes (Vikings) were determined to take the Saxons’ land by any means. Lucky for the good people of Coventry – they had their brave and determined Lady Godiva. Would Godiva think herself lucky to have Leofric as her husband?

I won’t risk a spoiler by revealing more of the book. If you enjoy historical fiction/romance I think you’ll enjoy Godiva’s story. I certainly did.