This is one of those stories that sounds too dramatic to be true, but it absolutely is. Maria de Lara e Meneses brings 14th-century Portugal to life, focusing on the doomed romance between Prince Pedro and his true love, Inês de Castro.

The Story

Inês was a noblewoman from Galicia who came to Portugal as a lady-in-waiting. She and Prince Pedro fell deeply in love, but their relationship was a political nightmare. Pedro was supposed to marry for power and alliances, not follow his heart. His father, King Afonso IV, and his advisors saw Inês as a threat. The pressure built until, in a brutal act of realpolitik, they had Inês murdered. What happens next is the stuff of legend. Pedro, consumed by grief and rage, eventually becomes king and takes a shocking, gruesome revenge to honor her memory.

Why You Should Read It

What grabbed me was the raw humanity in the middle of all the palace intrigue. Meneses doesn't just give us dates and battles; she makes you feel Pedro's devastating grief and Inês's quiet strength. You understand the impossible position they were in. It's a powerful look at how love can defy even death and how personal passion crashes against the cold walls of statecraft. The fact that it was written in the 1600s by a woman adds a fascinating layer—you're getting a historical perspective on history itself.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who loves a tragic romance that actually happened. If you're into shows like The Crown or books about royal scandals, you'll be hooked. It's also a great pick for readers curious about classic Portuguese literature but want something with a gripping, emotional core. Just be ready for a story that will stick with you long after you finish the last page.