"A SMART, EMOTIONALLY ENGAGING PAGE-TURNER." "UNEXPECTED, FUNNY, AND DARK." "DEVILISHLY CLEVER, A JOY TO READ." CRITICS REVIEW - BOOKLIFE PRIZE 2024 - 9.5 RANKING "Butterfield writes with charming, witty pose, perfectly intoning the speech patterns of her characters and the era of the novel. This novel sets itself apart through Butterfield's spotless prose and deeply thoughtful character studies; Marguerite is a powerhouse from the start, stunning in her intensity and relatability, and Butterfield perfectly balances her vulnerability with her growing skill and capacity to rule. Marguerite is alive with poise, vulnerability, and a sincerity that makes her breathtakingly real." THE HISTORICAL FICTION COMPANY - FIVE STARS - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED AWARD OF EXCELLENCE "The Serpent and the Rose" is a captivating tale that skillfully weaves together historical, dramatic and personal elements. Catherine Butterfield brings to life a fascinating period in French history and paints a complex and memorable portrait of Queen Marguerite de Valois." 5 stars, Highly Recommended Award of Excellence. KIRKUS REVIEWS - THUMBS UP "A sweeping but intimate story that highlights the author's clear attention to detail....." "Over the course of the novel, Butterfield employs diary-style from Marguerite's perspective that make for a brisk read, and Marguerite, despite her royal background, comes off as approachable and very human throughout."