Every now and then I like to read one of Philippa Gregory's historical novels. I was first won over by The Other Boleyn Girl and have read at least two other of her books. Meridon is the last novel in a trilogy, but I didn't read the first two and I didn't have to, to enjoy it. The heroine is a strong, independent woman (as so many of her protagonists are) with a savage and heartbreaking past. Her attributes and strong desire to make her own way, make her seem a woman of this generation rather than one of Georgian England. The subtext of greed and absolute power by the ruling class also echo themes of our times. Thoroughly enjoyed it.