I. Klul’s book can easily be called a unique study. This is not just a biography of the mysterious and insidious Catherine de Medici. Through the prism of her personality, the author gives a broad picture of the history of France during the era of religious wars, which culminated in the infamous St. Bartholomew's Night. Catherine de Medici stands at the center of these events - she rules, weaves intrigues, declares wars and makes peace, executes and pardons. For a wide range of readers. Translation from French by S. V. Prigornitskaya.