Keira J Morgan writes fiction set in the turbulent 16th century about French Renaissance women. She studied the French Renaissance to the doctoral level and maintains this website [https://www.keiramorgan.com] where she documents her research about women of the French Renaissance. She also includes anything she finds interesting about the 16th century as strikes her fancy.
An age of triumphs, heartbreak and succession crises. Meet the remarkable women who helped shape France between 1483 and 1610. Read the rest on Substack →
Who’s Included in the Women who Shaped 16th Century France Read More »
Catherine of Braganza began to engage more readily in the activities of the Stuart Court following a visit from her mother-in-law, Dowager Queen Henrietta Maria. Henrietta had encouraged her to accept his husband’s infidelities and participate and even organize events. Charles also inspired her to be more involved, just as his mother had done during
Step back in time to the life of Antoinette de Maignelais (1434?–1474) to read a tale of love and intrigue. She was mistress of Duke François II of Brittany (1461-1474). A little-known figure otherwise, her importance lies in her role as the the duke’s favorite and mistress. Their illicit (to our eyes) affair left an
A Tale of Love and Intrigue in Medieval Brittany Read More »
The Renaissance marriage of Germaine [Germana] de Foix is a perfect example that for centuries, royal women were pawns in power and politics.
Power and Politics in Germaine de Foix’s Marriage Read More »
When I started Passion for Compasses, I did not expect to discover a medieval eyeopener. Although the subtitle–Medieval Master Builders and their Cathedral Building Plans–intrigued me, I thought I would learn a bit about how medieval architects built the great gothic cathedrals without understanding any of the technicalities. I picked it up from Book Sirens
A Medieval Eyeopener & the Passion for Compasses Read More »
Discover the real lives behind the characters in ‘The Importance of Wives’. Explore the fascinating true stories that shaped this captivating novel.
The Real Lives Behind ‘The Importance of Wives” Characters Read More »
Follow the blog tour schedule for the May 31 launch of The Importance of Wives by Keira Morgan. It is the first book in her series about Anne of Brittany.
KEIRA’S VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR SCHEDULED EVENTS Read More »
In 16th century France, the d’Orléans family emerged from its enforced obscurity to take central stage. It owed its success to several remarkable women and lucky marriage alliances. From navigating political turmoil to promoting cultural and religious reform, the d’Orléans family played a pivotal role in shaping France during this tumultuous period. The kings, and
A Legacy Shaped by Women and Kings Read More »
In an era when newspapers were still in their infancy, letters played an indispensable role in connecting minds and disseminating news. Madame de Sévigné, became one of the earliest of the French letter writing luminaries. She navigated the intricate web of court politics, fashion, and social dynamics, while penning her insights with eloquence and humor.
Madame de Sévigné: French Letter Writing Luminary Read More »
If you are in the mood for a light historical mystery, Conspiracy in Bologna may be the book for you. In Renaissance Florence, a young orphan wakes in the night to scary sounds. He climbs from bed to uncover a frightening conspiracy. A volunteer who works at the orphanage worries about the mysterious disappearance of
A Historical Mystery Conspiracy in Bologna Read More »
Estimated reading time: 2 minutes Historical romance meets period history These are two women with intelligence, in aristocratic roles without power. Mothers to children birthed to rule. Alienated from their natural instincts and obstructed from their abilities. Surrounded by wealth and privilege and yet locked in relationships defined by ancient customs of court and monarchy.
A Review of The Importance of Sons Read More »
What do Countess Louise, Astrology, and January 1 have in common? Readers of the Journal de Louise de Savoye, duchesse d’Angoulesme, d’Anjou et de Valois will know the answer. For the rest of you, let me explain. Estimated reading time: 4 minutes Three crucial events In the 20 years between 1496 to 1515, three crucial
Countess Louise, Astrology, & January 1 Read More »
