Part two of a historical fiction trilogy about King Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine, this volume continues the story of this famous political marriage and also concentrates on Henry's relationship with his friend Thomas Becket, whom he appointed as Archbishop of Canterbury. Penman follows this tumultuous relationship through Becket's 1107 murder at the hands of four knights serving in Henry's court. A compelling fictionalization of one of the most important and exciting periods in British history.  (GBR492, $15.95)