Penman, Sharon Kay. Time and Chance.(Brief Article)

Putnam. 2002. c.528p. ISBN 0-399-14785-3. $27.95. F

The events of this second novel in a planned trilogy (after When Christ and His Saints Slept) center on the years 1156-71, when England was ruled by Henry II. His queen, Eleanor of Aquitaine, an uncommon woman for her era, is as strong-willed and intelligent as her husband. For many years, they share a passionate marriage, which produces several children--two of whom, Richard and John, go on to become powerful monarchs in their own right. Conflict arises when Henry names Thomas Becket, his close friend and adviser, to the exalted …