I received The Dark Queens as part of a NetGalley giveaway.

In the 6th century, as Western Europe rearranged itself following Rome's fall, two sisters-in-law emerged on the stage that would shape policy in Francia for generations: Brunhild, noble by birth, and Fredegund, an upstart slave. They married royal brothers, but their husbands' shadows are short compared these two women who were in many ways too alike--wily, ambitious, intelligent--to ever forge a close relationship. By ruling in lieu of their minor sons and grandsons, they wielded power that was otherwise denied to them on the basis of their sex. And, in doing so, they ushered in an era of political and religious change that would have ramifications for centuries to come.

I find the early Middle Ages fascinating, probably because of the chaos that was unfolding in the wake of the Western Roman Empire's fall, and the corresponding lack of sources to explain the myriad characters and events, so I jump at any chance to read history or historical fiction about the era. This is a popular history that it well done but not without its flaws. I did notice a few errors--for instance, there's a reference to the Clovis/Louis name lasting in the French royal dynasty for "twelve thousand years" when it was actually twelve hundred. Similarly I think there were a couple times when relationships were mislabeled. These slip ups may be minor, but it does call into question the reliability of the other research, particularly when the author isn't a historian. That said, the narrative was very engaging and easy to navigate despite the unfamiliar names and relationships, and I appreciated the focus on the women rather than the men who surrounded them. Despite the lack of sources, Puhak does a worthy job of making Brunhild and Fredegund vibrant and well-rounded figures.

The Dark Queens by Shelley Puhak is an excellent nonfiction that gives the historical account of two formidable women in their own right, ahead of their time, and finally given a voice of their own.

Let me first just say that the amount of research and time placed into this book is just stunning. I had never heard of either of these women before picking up this book, and now after having finished, I can admit how much I truly learned.

The author shines a light on two women of history: Queen Brunhild and Queen Fredegund. Both fascinating women respectively. Both women before their time and also flawed in their own ways.
I found not only their existence during the late 500s to early 600s (in Brunhild’s case), but also their parts played in history, their feud, and their downfalls.

Some of their actions impressive and brave, others reckless and somewhat petty. The author paints a vivid and honest portrait of these influential women that have somehow been brushed aside, and brings their stores to the forefront, blemishes and all.

5/5 stars

Thank you NG and Bloomsbury USA for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 2/22/22.