Although numerous general studies of medieval women and a number of biographies of medieval queens have appeared in recent years, there have been comparatively few studies that combine biographical and prosopographical methodologies in order to develop portraits of specific women as case studies of the different life experiences of medieval women. The individual chapters can be read as separate histories of their specific subjects as well as case studies which together provide a coherent picture of the medieval English noblewoman. 

"Linda E. Mitchell's work on women in medieval England is a well researched and interesting discussion of women and their relationship within marriage, family, and the community. The skillful use of a variety of sources makes this work useful and appropriate for specialists in the study of medieval women, as well as those just beginning their study of the medieval period...Mitchell's work is a welcome and timely addition to the discussion of women's roles within English medieval society." - Shawndra Holderby, The Historian