There are many things to like about this book: the main character, Joan of Kent, has had little written about her, so it's a fresh story (unless you read the back cover--see my complaint below); all the characters are fully fleshed, complicated people; the historical research is extensive but doesn't "show" in lecture chunks; the writing is clear, descriptive and sometimes beautiful, without distracting literary flourishes. Campion does a good job of maturing Joan from a scared, easily manipulated, twelve-year old; to a confident, easily manipulated, matron. Medieval women, especially relatives of the kings, didn't have a lot of control over their lives. The drama usually comes from their reactions to those restrictions, rather than positive action of their own. Campion capitalizes on the fact that Joan of Kent did take actions to control her own life. But in most cases, outside agents laid the ground work for her to follow her heart for their own gain. I think the author is strongest in writing about the politics of the times, the intertwining and conflicting agendas of the ruling elite of England, France, the Low Countries, and the papacy. She is particularly good at developing the character of Edward, Prince of Wales (later known as "the Black Prince"). 
 If there is one place I fault the author's writing, it's in how she handled the plague. The Black Death of 1348-50 devastated Europe's population and resulted in significant social upheaval. No one was immune: the rich and poor, the good and bad, young and old, healthy and debilitated. Neither prayer, nor medicine helped. The plague was inexplicable and struck terror in the hearts of people. That terror led to bizarre actions. None of that is reflected in the actions of Campion's characters. Her characters sorrow over some deaths, but it comes across to the reader as an echo rather than heart breaking, gut wrenching loss. The only change in behavior is a somewhat bolder challenge to authority (more open sex). No one ponders the existential meaning of the plague or joins the migrating hordes of flagellating monks and dancing matrons. I consider this a significant missed opportunity for drama and character development, which is why I rated the book three stars rather than four. 
 Now to some complaints about the publisher. Authors rarely have any control over titles, covers, and publicity. I feel Broadway Books did Campion a disservice in this department. The title: A Triple Knot has no significance; is never explained in the story, front, or back matter; and doesn't give the reader any clue as to what the story is about. I can hazard a guess, but that would be a spoiler. Most HF readers are used to anachronistic gowns and headless women on the covers, so that is not such a sin. They all do it [wrong]. But my biggest beef is with the back cover copy, which is one big spoiler! The second paragraph summarizes the plot of the whole book. If you don't know the story of Joan and want to find out from the book--don't read the back cover. (They also have a fact wrong, saying Joan is the niece of Edward III. She was niece to Edward II and cousin to King Edward III.) The publisher's marketing department blew it big time. Since this is an ARC, I hope this is a placeholder and they do better with the actual book. 
 In summary, I found this book to be an enjoyable read, which could have been a bit better. Please note that I received a free Advance Reader Copy from the publisher, but that did not affect my review.