She has two children by Hugh before his untimely and intrigue-riddled death, and before long, becomes John of Gaunt’s love interest. She’s then spirited away to live at Kettlethorpe, her husband’s shabby and isolated manor. For a woman of common birth and no dowry to speak of, this is an excellent match, and spurred on by her ever-practical-minded sister, Katherine is in due time forced to accept the proposal. Unfortunately, it bewitches the uncouth knight, Hugh Swynford, and he asks for her hand in marriage after accosting her. Her beauty and quiet dignity draw instant attention to Katherine. Katherine is raised in a convent until her sister, a lady-in-waiting for Queen Philippa, summons her to court in order for her to find a husband. Katherine, and her sister Philippa, are the daughters of Paon de Roet, who was knighted right before his untimely death, which left his children orphaned. The narrative is at once comprehensive as well as entertaining, and offers the reader an insightful glimpse into 14th century society. Set in Chaucer’s England, where knights still adhere to courtly love for their ladies fair, and squires serve their beloved masters with unparalleled faithfulness, Katherine depicts the story of Katherine Swynford, the long-time mistress and eventual third wife of John of Gaunt.
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