Call number
FIC GEO
Collection
Genres
Publication
Viking (2011), Edition: First Edition, 688 pages
Description
Elizabeth's rival for the love of Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, and mother to the Earl of Essex, the mercurial nobleman who challenged Elizabeth's throne, Lettice Knollys had been intertwined with Elizabeth since childhood. They are both women of fierce intellect and desire: one trying to protect her country, and throne, the other trying to regain power and position for her family and each vying to convince the reader of her own private vision of the truth.
User reviews
LibraryThing member Cariola
Hundreds of novels have been written about Elizabeth I, so one wonders, what could be written about her life that hasn't been covered before? Margaret George takes as her subject a less familiar period of Elizabeth's life, the last 15 years or so, from the approach of the Spanish Armada to her
Plenty--especially if you are a reader who is more interested in characters than action. And George starts us off with plenty of action as the English troops prepare to meet the Armada. We're introduced to some of the major players of the period: Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, the leader of Elizabeth's troops; her spymaster Frances Walsingham (incongruously clad in armor); Sir Walter Raleigh; Secretary Burleigh; Leicester's stepson, the Earl of Essex;--the list goes on.
But characters drive this novel. By focusing on an aging queen with aging advisors who are often in conflict with the younger members of the council, George finds a reason to explore relationships, the changes wrought by maturity and experience, and a growing generation gap that affects both court and country. The effect is enhanced by dividing the novel between two narrators, Elizabeth and her cousin Lettice Knollys. The ten years younger, more beautiful, and thrice-married Lettice is the granddaughter of Mary Boleyn, sister of the queen's doomed mother. A third Boleyn cousin, Catherine Knollys, enters the picture as one of Elizabeth's foremost ladies in waiting. It is Catherine who observes near the end of the book that together they represent the three paths of womanhood: one a life-long virgin, one thrice widowed, and one happily married to the same man since her youth.
While Elizbeth and Lettice would seem to be polar opposites (and Lettice had incurred the queen's lifelong enmity for seducing away and marrying Leicester), George's narrative subtly reveals the similarities between them as well. For one thing, both have learned the value of patience; for another, both reflect on the mistakes and lessons of the past and on the process of ageing. Whatever else she may be, Lettice is also a devoted mother; and George depicts Elizabeth as a mother much devoted to her "children," the people of England, as well as to her many godchildren. In the case of Elizabeth, George attempts to dig below the myths and give us a closer look at the woman behind the face paint and the crown. The double narratives remind us of how difficult it was to be a woman in those days, especially for a woman who had to remind the world that she was a prince as well.
Now, don't get the impression that this book is all thought and no action. After all, we are talking about a period that encompassed the invasion of the Armada and the continued threat from Spain, the Lopez 'plot,' the Irish wars, the Essex rebellion, the problem of the succession, and more. And for good measure, George imagines a dalliance between Lettice and that upstart playwright William Shakespeare. (Both women comment on his work and ponder its relevance--and John Donne makes two appearances as well.) In short, George gives us a brimming picture of life, both public and private, in late Elizabethan England.
There is so much more that I could say about this book, but I never like to give away too much. I recommend that you read and enjoy it for yourself!
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death in 1603. It's a daring decision, since what we generally think of as the most exciting events in her reign--her imprisonment by her half-sister Mary, her dalliance Thomas Seymour, her ascendance to the throne, the string of foreign suitors and her 'affair' with Robert Dudley, the arrest of her cousin Mary of Scotland, etc. So what could there be in the life of an ageing queen that is worthy of another massive tome?Plenty--especially if you are a reader who is more interested in characters than action. And George starts us off with plenty of action as the English troops prepare to meet the Armada. We're introduced to some of the major players of the period: Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, the leader of Elizabeth's troops; her spymaster Frances Walsingham (incongruously clad in armor); Sir Walter Raleigh; Secretary Burleigh; Leicester's stepson, the Earl of Essex;--the list goes on.
But characters drive this novel. By focusing on an aging queen with aging advisors who are often in conflict with the younger members of the council, George finds a reason to explore relationships, the changes wrought by maturity and experience, and a growing generation gap that affects both court and country. The effect is enhanced by dividing the novel between two narrators, Elizabeth and her cousin Lettice Knollys. The ten years younger, more beautiful, and thrice-married Lettice is the granddaughter of Mary Boleyn, sister of the queen's doomed mother. A third Boleyn cousin, Catherine Knollys, enters the picture as one of Elizabeth's foremost ladies in waiting. It is Catherine who observes near the end of the book that together they represent the three paths of womanhood: one a life-long virgin, one thrice widowed, and one happily married to the same man since her youth.
While Elizbeth and Lettice would seem to be polar opposites (and Lettice had incurred the queen's lifelong enmity for seducing away and marrying Leicester), George's narrative subtly reveals the similarities between them as well. For one thing, both have learned the value of patience; for another, both reflect on the mistakes and lessons of the past and on the process of ageing. Whatever else she may be, Lettice is also a devoted mother; and George depicts Elizabeth as a mother much devoted to her "children," the people of England, as well as to her many godchildren. In the case of Elizabeth, George attempts to dig below the myths and give us a closer look at the woman behind the face paint and the crown. The double narratives remind us of how difficult it was to be a woman in those days, especially for a woman who had to remind the world that she was a prince as well.
Now, don't get the impression that this book is all thought and no action. After all, we are talking about a period that encompassed the invasion of the Armada and the continued threat from Spain, the Lopez 'plot,' the Irish wars, the Essex rebellion, the problem of the succession, and more. And for good measure, George imagines a dalliance between Lettice and that upstart playwright William Shakespeare. (Both women comment on his work and ponder its relevance--and John Donne makes two appearances as well.) In short, George gives us a brimming picture of life, both public and private, in late Elizabethan England.
There is so much more that I could say about this book, but I never like to give away too much. I recommend that you read and enjoy it for yourself!
Show Less
LibraryThing member DeltaQueen50
It is a privilege to have received this book as part of the Early Reviewer Program here at Library Thing. Margaret George is a favorite author, her historical fiction books are truly memorable.
The author has chosen to frame her book around the last 25 years of this queen’s reign. Therefore
Along with Elizabeth, all the major characters of the age are here: Drake, Raleigh, Shakespeare etc. We are given insights into both the times and this remarkable woman who ruled over all. Margaret George shows Elizabeth as a shrewd, wise, courageous woman who was not above being be both petty and jealous at times. A woman married to her country, one who has no private life to speak of, but has power and the right to wield it.
Intersected throughout the book are chapters told in the words of Robert Dudley’s wife, and the mother of Essex. Lettice is another shrew, ambitious woman, who because of her marriage to Robert Dudley is not welcome at Elizabeth’s court. She gives us a picture of how hard it was to be a forward-thinking woman in those days, and how her aspirations came to be focused on her son. Through these women we are shown the rise, and then the spectacular fall of Lord Essex.
Elizabeth I is filled with period detail and well researched historic references, rich and colourful. I believe Margaret George has captured the essence of this woman of history. A massive book that was almost too heavy to hold, I nevertheless found Elizabeth I both enlightened and entertained me and I highly recommend this book.
The author has chosen to frame her book around the last 25 years of this queen’s reign. Therefore
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Elizabeth I starts when the threat of the Spanish Armada was looming over England. We meet a mature Elizabeth, one who has been on the throne for many years. Although she is taking great pains to hide it, she is in her mid-fifties and feeling all of her years. From experiencing hot flashes to having to write herself notes so she won’t forget something, Elizabeth comes across as a very real person. Along with Elizabeth, all the major characters of the age are here: Drake, Raleigh, Shakespeare etc. We are given insights into both the times and this remarkable woman who ruled over all. Margaret George shows Elizabeth as a shrewd, wise, courageous woman who was not above being be both petty and jealous at times. A woman married to her country, one who has no private life to speak of, but has power and the right to wield it.
Intersected throughout the book are chapters told in the words of Robert Dudley’s wife, and the mother of Essex. Lettice is another shrew, ambitious woman, who because of her marriage to Robert Dudley is not welcome at Elizabeth’s court. She gives us a picture of how hard it was to be a forward-thinking woman in those days, and how her aspirations came to be focused on her son. Through these women we are shown the rise, and then the spectacular fall of Lord Essex.
Elizabeth I is filled with period detail and well researched historic references, rich and colourful. I believe Margaret George has captured the essence of this woman of history. A massive book that was almost too heavy to hold, I nevertheless found Elizabeth I both enlightened and entertained me and I highly recommend this book.
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LibraryThing member Nickelini
In this novelized version of Elizabeth I, Margaret George looks at the later part of her life--the years of the Spanish Armadas (the famous one was just the beginning), the years after the deaths of her most trusted advisors, and the years when her life was entwined with the Earl of Essex. Her
I have been recommending Margaret George's Tudor novels for years because they are entertaining reads that are well researched. Unlike every film treatment of the dynasty that I can remember, George doesn't change the known facts to "improve" the story. Instead she leaves the historical record intact and then weaves her fiction around it (a formula that should be followed by more authors of historical fiction). It is always a bonus to actually learn something while being entertained.
And now I finally understand who all the various men in Elizabeth's life were!
Recommended for: This is a must-read for any fan of the Tudors. Also recommended for those who love long books that they can sink themselves into.
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story is told in the first person by Elizabeth herself, and interspersed with sections by her cousin, Lettice Knollys. Lettice is a Tudor-era character previously unknown to me, but a very important person in Elizabeth's life as she was the wife of the queen's dear Robert Dudley and the mother of Robert Deveraux, Earl of Essex. Lettice is physically similar to Elizabeth, but contrasts sharply in her character. Compared to Elizabeth's virginal status, cousin Lettice is rather a cougar; not only is she thrice married, she also has affairs with several of her son's friends. Also woven into the story are the characters and writings of Will Shakespeare, Edmund Spencer, John Donne and Francis Bacon.I have been recommending Margaret George's Tudor novels for years because they are entertaining reads that are well researched. Unlike every film treatment of the dynasty that I can remember, George doesn't change the known facts to "improve" the story. Instead she leaves the historical record intact and then weaves her fiction around it (a formula that should be followed by more authors of historical fiction). It is always a bonus to actually learn something while being entertained.
And now I finally understand who all the various men in Elizabeth's life were!
Recommended for: This is a must-read for any fan of the Tudors. Also recommended for those who love long books that they can sink themselves into.
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LibraryThing member cwaldrum
I received the book last week and began my journey back in time on Thursday. I finished last night and was a little sad that the end had come. Then again she died, so of course the end had come. I'll admit I was concerned that I would find the book a little dry and tiresome since I had read and
I was wrong. Dead wrong.
I knew almost nothing about her life past the Armada of 1588. I thought that was the pinnacle of her life. The shining top and life was sunshine and roses afterwards. So not true. That woman faced even more turmoil after the first Armada (there was actually three!) up until her death. I don't think Elizabeth had a moments rest or peace in her 45 year reign. If she wasn't facing the challenges from Phillp II of Spain, it was Ireland on her back door. If not Ireland, France across the channel. If not France then those of her own court.
I could go on and on about Elizabeth and her remarkable life but that defeats the purpose of this post since it's to be a review of the novel Ms. George wrote about her. I highly recommend you do your own research or schedule an appointment with me to learn more on Queen Elizabeth I.
Margaret George took on a monumental task to write about her life. She isn't the first author to do so, but I think she's the first that has pinpointed these particular years of her life. The book opens in 1587 with Elizabeth having to worry about the Armada's eventual sail down to merry 'ole England. At this point in Elizabeth's life she is in her mid fifties. Old and unmarried (as we know she remains) she has reigned for almost 30 years.
I found that by starting Elizabeth's story here rather than the beginning we truly got a better portrait of her. By bypassing the injustices of her early life, the constant threat of death during Mary's reign, her coronation and the early fights over marriage, her eventually commitment to England by marrying no consort and after the effects of the Mary Stuart plots we start with a fresh image. If you could forget the beginning I think the end makes a brighter picture of her.
Ms. George has done a remarkable job in bringing the reader into the late life of such a enigmatic Queen. There is very little information on Elizabeth's private life and thoughts. She left behind no letters, no diaries or anything that is not public record. Therefore the challenge for Ms. George was to work her way into the mind of the enobled monarch and bring her privately to life. I think she did a splendid job!!!
Based on the public knowledge of her Majesty and countless stories of people who intereacted and kept some of the correspondence between themselves and their Queen, she was able to piece a small picture of Elizabeth together. Then with the creative flair I find truly Margaret George's own style, she blew that into a giant portrait of someone regal and alluring.
I also learned. I'm a history nut and love historical fiction (counting it the number one genre of choice!) and by reading this book I learned facts of Elizabeth's life I was not aware of. I also learned more details of the era that were elusive to me. For example Elizabeth outlived 7 Popes. Men who all clamoured for her demise and screamed for a Catholic to be placed upon the throne of England. She outlived them all.
That is all the spoiler I will give you!!
The novel also explores a second character. She's not as prominent in history but she was a driving force and thorn in Elizabeth's side. Her cousin Lettice Knollys. Some would even venture to guess that Lettice was a bastard child of Henry VIII, since she was almost identical to Elizabeth. Lettice was the woman who caught and captured Robert Dudley, Elizabeth's Robin and who she may have given up her virginity to (speculation - there is no documentation to prove this!). Lettice not only secures herself as Robert's wife, but her son is one who leads a disastorous rebellion against Elizabeth in later years.
Introducing Lettice opened the story of Elizabeth's life to an outside perspective by one who was constantly in her shadow and strove to ourshine the Queen. Only later did she learn that no one outshines the Queen! Lettice's story also gave a nice break to the story, allowing for the reader to take a break from empathizing with the constant pressure Elizabeth was under. It also showed the life of a Tudor court. One of mystery, espionage, seduction and cruelty. And who doesn't want to read about that?
I would recommend this to even the biggest Elizabeth nut. Someone who thinks they know all there is to know about her, I can almost guarantee they will learn at leasst one new thing about her. I was impressed and obsessed with reading it. Knowing what was gong to happen next. It's definetly going to be one I read over and over again.
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researched Elizabeth quite a bit (the Tudor Dynasty is probably one of my favorite to read and research!). I'd seen movies and history shows on her and I thought I knew everything there was to know about her. I was wrong. Dead wrong.
I knew almost nothing about her life past the Armada of 1588. I thought that was the pinnacle of her life. The shining top and life was sunshine and roses afterwards. So not true. That woman faced even more turmoil after the first Armada (there was actually three!) up until her death. I don't think Elizabeth had a moments rest or peace in her 45 year reign. If she wasn't facing the challenges from Phillp II of Spain, it was Ireland on her back door. If not Ireland, France across the channel. If not France then those of her own court.
I could go on and on about Elizabeth and her remarkable life but that defeats the purpose of this post since it's to be a review of the novel Ms. George wrote about her. I highly recommend you do your own research or schedule an appointment with me to learn more on Queen Elizabeth I.
Margaret George took on a monumental task to write about her life. She isn't the first author to do so, but I think she's the first that has pinpointed these particular years of her life. The book opens in 1587 with Elizabeth having to worry about the Armada's eventual sail down to merry 'ole England. At this point in Elizabeth's life she is in her mid fifties. Old and unmarried (as we know she remains) she has reigned for almost 30 years.
I found that by starting Elizabeth's story here rather than the beginning we truly got a better portrait of her. By bypassing the injustices of her early life, the constant threat of death during Mary's reign, her coronation and the early fights over marriage, her eventually commitment to England by marrying no consort and after the effects of the Mary Stuart plots we start with a fresh image. If you could forget the beginning I think the end makes a brighter picture of her.
Ms. George has done a remarkable job in bringing the reader into the late life of such a enigmatic Queen. There is very little information on Elizabeth's private life and thoughts. She left behind no letters, no diaries or anything that is not public record. Therefore the challenge for Ms. George was to work her way into the mind of the enobled monarch and bring her privately to life. I think she did a splendid job!!!
Based on the public knowledge of her Majesty and countless stories of people who intereacted and kept some of the correspondence between themselves and their Queen, she was able to piece a small picture of Elizabeth together. Then with the creative flair I find truly Margaret George's own style, she blew that into a giant portrait of someone regal and alluring.
I also learned. I'm a history nut and love historical fiction (counting it the number one genre of choice!) and by reading this book I learned facts of Elizabeth's life I was not aware of. I also learned more details of the era that were elusive to me. For example Elizabeth outlived 7 Popes. Men who all clamoured for her demise and screamed for a Catholic to be placed upon the throne of England. She outlived them all.
That is all the spoiler I will give you!!
The novel also explores a second character. She's not as prominent in history but she was a driving force and thorn in Elizabeth's side. Her cousin Lettice Knollys. Some would even venture to guess that Lettice was a bastard child of Henry VIII, since she was almost identical to Elizabeth. Lettice was the woman who caught and captured Robert Dudley, Elizabeth's Robin and who she may have given up her virginity to (speculation - there is no documentation to prove this!). Lettice not only secures herself as Robert's wife, but her son is one who leads a disastorous rebellion against Elizabeth in later years.
Introducing Lettice opened the story of Elizabeth's life to an outside perspective by one who was constantly in her shadow and strove to ourshine the Queen. Only later did she learn that no one outshines the Queen! Lettice's story also gave a nice break to the story, allowing for the reader to take a break from empathizing with the constant pressure Elizabeth was under. It also showed the life of a Tudor court. One of mystery, espionage, seduction and cruelty. And who doesn't want to read about that?
I would recommend this to even the biggest Elizabeth nut. Someone who thinks they know all there is to know about her, I can almost guarantee they will learn at leasst one new thing about her. I was impressed and obsessed with reading it. Knowing what was gong to happen next. It's definetly going to be one I read over and over again.
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LibraryThing member japaul22
I've had the historical fiction of Margaret George on my TBR pile for quite a while now. I was not disappointed by this book, though I was not blown away either. This book focuses on the end of Elizabeth I's reign. It roughly starts with the 1588 Spanish Armada victory and goes through the end of
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her reign. There is a lot of death in this book, as Queen Elizabeth's trusted advisers pass away from old age and she lives on. This was an interesting view and one that I haven't often seen explored in her reign. The book was obviously well-researched and the writing was good, though it didn't grab me the same way that Sharon Kay Penman's books do. One thing that I found lacking was that there were no maps or family trees. I usually find those helpful in books involving royalty. Show Less
LibraryThing member Ani36ol
I count myself as one of the people lucky enough to receive an advance copy of Margaret George’s new novel Elizabeth I. I can honestly say that having read every one of Ms. George’s novels I had every expectation to thoroughly enjoy it and I was not disappointed. The author researches her
She manages to show Elizabeth I in two lights, both believable. One being the conceited queen who struggles to maintain her power over England without the help of a husband by her side. We also see the queen who desperately wants to be loved by both her subjects and by Robert Dudley, a softer side that is rarely written about. The love she holds for her infamous mother, Anne Boleyn, is evident and she flaunts it in a quiet yet almost “in your face” way. I ended up admiring this woman who decided that she would rule England on her own in a time when women were thought to need a man for everything. She may even be one of the world’s first feminists. This is a wonderful novel that I shall gladly add to my ever-growing Royal collection.
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subjects for months, even years, and writes a very factual novel but in a fascinating way. She writes in a story format so as to entertain while imparting a wonderful piece of historical data that doesn’t leave the reader feeling like they have just read a high school text book. I have always been a huge fan of Margaret George and continue to be so after reading this book. I hope she goes on to continue writing about the royalty of centuries ago because she is truly gifted.She manages to show Elizabeth I in two lights, both believable. One being the conceited queen who struggles to maintain her power over England without the help of a husband by her side. We also see the queen who desperately wants to be loved by both her subjects and by Robert Dudley, a softer side that is rarely written about. The love she holds for her infamous mother, Anne Boleyn, is evident and she flaunts it in a quiet yet almost “in your face” way. I ended up admiring this woman who decided that she would rule England on her own in a time when women were thought to need a man for everything. She may even be one of the world’s first feminists. This is a wonderful novel that I shall gladly add to my ever-growing Royal collection.
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LibraryThing member Romonko
This book portrays Elizabeth I from 1588 (when she was in her 50's and just before the legendary Spanish Armada debacle) until her death in March of 1603. It is a truly wonderful book written from the viewpoint of Elizabeth I with some insertions from the viewpoint of her cousin Lettice Knolleys
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who is almost a mirror-image of Elizabeth (although younger by 10 years). Elizabeth I was "Virgin Queen". Her cousin was married three times and the mother of three living children). Letitia married Elizabeth I's erstwhile lover (in name only), Robert Dudley, and it was a deed that Elizabeth could never forgive her for. After I finished the book I felt as though I knew these wonderful and strong women. Ms. George does a remarkable job of depicting their characters. We see Elizabeth as the brilliant monarch who still was uncertain of herself in so many ways in her personal life. We are introduced to so many historical figures like Sir Walter Raleigh, William Shakespeare, Sir Francis Drake, and so many others too numerous to mention. I just can't get over how Ms. George manages to bring these people and this era to life! This book is a remarkable achievement, and I feel honoured that I was entrusted to review this book before it's initial release. I highly recommend it. Show Less
LibraryThing member lazybee
I generally like historical fiction, and am particularly interested in Renaissance England, but I had trouble making it through Elizabeth I. The novel focuses on the last years of Elizabeth's reign, which is certainly an interesting era, but the plot seemed to move very slowly, and I did not find
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the writing engaging. If you are looking for historical fiction set in Tudor England, I would recommend Philippa Gregory or Jean Plaidy's novels over this one. Show Less
LibraryThing member hollysing
I thank Viking Publishing for an advance review copy. Review forthcoming.
LibraryThing member SpaceStationMir
Like her Autobiography of Henry VIII, Margaret George's Elizabeth I is a foundational text in Tudor fiction. Every moment of this book was an absolute pleasure to me, and I have devoted many hours to reading about Elizabeth Tudor and Elizabethan England, both fiction and non-fiction. George writes
As soon as I saw that George was coming out with this book (it came out in May), I wishlisted it on Amazon. Then, I received it as a graduation gift from my aunt! I had been saving it to read for an auspicious time, when I found out that Margaret George was going to be at the National Book Festival. I started reading right away and was a couple hundred pages in when I met George, got my book signed, AND attended her panel and got to ask her a couple questions during the Q&A sessions. I've realized I turn into a babbling fangirl at these events, but I think I managed to convey my appreciation, especially for the vast amount of research that George does and incorporates so masterfully into her novels. One of my questions was about her interpretation of Elizabeth's character. George's Elizabeth seems more logical, calm, and authoritative than many Elizabeths I've seen in the works of Philippa Gregory, Rosalind Miles, Robin Maxwell and others. I asked her if this is her view of Elizabeth's essential character or a character that she developed when she grew older, as George's book covers the last 15 years of her life, while the other books tend to focus on her younger years. George's answer was that she sees Elizabeth as always having been very self-collected, self-aware, and that she doesn't think she ever really lost control. She believes that "semper eadem" (always the same in Latin) was a motto that fit Elizabeth well, despite Elizabeth's famous changing of her mind and notorious fits, these, she seems to think, were calculated acts. This interpretation interests me, as this is the type of Elizabeth I would like to believe in. I don't like, or find realistic, these uber-romantic portraits of her that some people have. No doubt she had emotional needs like most people, but she clearly ruled with her head, not her heart.
The book is told from the points of view of Elizabeth and her estranged cousin Laetitia, or Lettice. The two never meet throughout the book, except for one occasion, which I suspect is a narrative invention of George's, but I would really like to know for sure. If my assumption is correct, then the "confrontation" scene is part of what I've observed to be a trope of literature about Elizabeth that pits her against another woman, typically Mary, Queen of Scots, but in Sir Walter Scott's Kenilworth, it is Amy Dudley, who actually is a stand-in for Lettice, as Scott plays with dates and situations. Dudley was Leicester's first wife, whom he married openly during the reign of Edward VI, but when she died young under suspicious circumstances, he later had an affair with and then secretly married Lettice without Elizabeth's knowledge. It was this marriage that, when discovered, drew Elizabeth's infamous ire and permanent banishment for Lettice.
The book opens with the imminent arrival of the 1558 Spanish Armada, but actually numerous Armadas threaten England throughout the book, only to be vanquished by weather and bad luck. These are all historically accurate, just little commented upon. The other perpetual threat throughout the novel is the Earl of Essex, son to Lettice, stepson to Elizabeth's beloved Leicester (whose exit is soon after the first Armada), and courtier and rumored lover to Elizabeth. George (and rightly so, I believe) makes little of the supposed love affair, except for one scene that she explains as pure invention, although it provides great insight into Elizabeth's character. George's answer to the virginity question, one she answered both in her panel and in the book, is that Elizabeth did indeed remain a virgin, for practical reasons. Instead, George shows Essex in a truly historical light; he was a petulant spoiled boy filled with dreams of military glory, whose appeal and bids to the populace made him a threat. His own deluded beliefs about his deserts at Elizabeth's hands and then depression at her rejection of him seemed to have even made him a bit deranged in the end. George carefully builds up Essex's interactions with Elizabeth, his long store of non-achievements, and his activities that grow ever more seditious and treasonous. In the book, he is compared to Mary, Queen of Scots in the level of threat he draws, because he is young, handsome and strong and actively courts common favor. Elizabeth could not have him playing her own game against her. I have studied some of the ballads surrounding Essex at the time and these alone make me understand why he was considered so dangerous.
A delightful aspect of this novel is George's obvious rapport with Shakespeare's works and how this leads her to interpret his character as well. Several of Shakespeare's plays feature in the novel; at court, in the theatre, and in dialogue between the characters. In an unlikely but charming twist, she makes Lettice Knollys Shakespeare's Dark Lady (especially unlikely, I think, due to Lettice's red hair, and also, would she stoop so low?) and the Earl of Southampton the Golden Boy of the sonnets. While the latter is more likely, she does in this way sidestep the possibility of Shakespeare's bisexuality and instead keeps his relationship to Southampton as a patron and as a fellow lover of Lettice. Even when not reciting from his plays, George's Shakespeare uses the language one imagines he would, if he talked in a slightly more modern vernacular. I hope she takes him on as her next subject, I would be fascinated to see what she could do with Shakespeare's life.
George concentrates on important aspects of Elizabeth's life that few of her other fictional historians seem to spend much time on. For example, she focuses on the relationship between Elizabeth and her favorite ladies-in-waiting, especially her cousin Catherine Howard (Carey), and Marjorie Norris. Other women rarely figure in tales about Elizabeth, except as adversaries. Yet, Elizabeth was constantly surrounded by women in her private chambers, it's amazing that no one else has found them important enough to more than mention. George places more emphasis on Elizabeth's adventurers, like Drake and Raleigh and their voyages. All of her privateers, not just the best-known, Drake, but John Hawkins, Martin Frobisher, Sir Richard Grenville etc., get at least a mention here. Admittedly, these men get a lot of attention in non-fiction, like The Pirate Queen by Susan Ronald, that I've also been dipping into lately, but in fiction it's all about the Virgin Queen's alleged lovers. Burghley, Cecil, and Walsingham are not particularly original here either, but they've been delved into enough. A recurring theme in George's book is Elizabeth's feeling about the legacy of Henry VIII. In her panel, George explained that Elizabeth separated her father into "the man" and "the king," and as a king, she revered him and craved his approval. I can imagine her father did cast quite a shadow over her life, but how much she wanted to be a part of his legacy and how much she wanted to distance herself from it is another question. She kept his religion, but reversed his policies on war and spending; in many ways her court tried to follow his in grandeur and artistic pursuits though.
Read this book; fans of historical fiction, anyone interested in the Virgin Queen, anyone who loved Wolf Hall, anyone. It's a long book, but deftly written and organized. Just when you're tired of one narrator, the story shifts seamlessly to the other. This is another fictional biography, as great or greater in scope, understanding, and wit as the earlier book.
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with the authority and thorough consideration of the queen herself, and brings to life arresting portraits of many Elizabethan figures, particularly the underrepresented (in Tudor fiction and biography) Letitia Knollys and the ubiquitous William Shakespeare, but I also reveled in her portrayals of the Earl of Essex, Sir Walter Raleigh, Sir Francis Drake, William and Robert Cecil, Edmund Spenser, and lesser known figures like Admiral Charles Howard and his wife Catherine, nee Carey.As soon as I saw that George was coming out with this book (it came out in May), I wishlisted it on Amazon. Then, I received it as a graduation gift from my aunt! I had been saving it to read for an auspicious time, when I found out that Margaret George was going to be at the National Book Festival. I started reading right away and was a couple hundred pages in when I met George, got my book signed, AND attended her panel and got to ask her a couple questions during the Q&A sessions. I've realized I turn into a babbling fangirl at these events, but I think I managed to convey my appreciation, especially for the vast amount of research that George does and incorporates so masterfully into her novels. One of my questions was about her interpretation of Elizabeth's character. George's Elizabeth seems more logical, calm, and authoritative than many Elizabeths I've seen in the works of Philippa Gregory, Rosalind Miles, Robin Maxwell and others. I asked her if this is her view of Elizabeth's essential character or a character that she developed when she grew older, as George's book covers the last 15 years of her life, while the other books tend to focus on her younger years. George's answer was that she sees Elizabeth as always having been very self-collected, self-aware, and that she doesn't think she ever really lost control. She believes that "semper eadem" (always the same in Latin) was a motto that fit Elizabeth well, despite Elizabeth's famous changing of her mind and notorious fits, these, she seems to think, were calculated acts. This interpretation interests me, as this is the type of Elizabeth I would like to believe in. I don't like, or find realistic, these uber-romantic portraits of her that some people have. No doubt she had emotional needs like most people, but she clearly ruled with her head, not her heart.
The book is told from the points of view of Elizabeth and her estranged cousin Laetitia, or Lettice. The two never meet throughout the book, except for one occasion, which I suspect is a narrative invention of George's, but I would really like to know for sure. If my assumption is correct, then the "confrontation" scene is part of what I've observed to be a trope of literature about Elizabeth that pits her against another woman, typically Mary, Queen of Scots, but in Sir Walter Scott's Kenilworth, it is Amy Dudley, who actually is a stand-in for Lettice, as Scott plays with dates and situations. Dudley was Leicester's first wife, whom he married openly during the reign of Edward VI, but when she died young under suspicious circumstances, he later had an affair with and then secretly married Lettice without Elizabeth's knowledge. It was this marriage that, when discovered, drew Elizabeth's infamous ire and permanent banishment for Lettice.
The book opens with the imminent arrival of the 1558 Spanish Armada, but actually numerous Armadas threaten England throughout the book, only to be vanquished by weather and bad luck. These are all historically accurate, just little commented upon. The other perpetual threat throughout the novel is the Earl of Essex, son to Lettice, stepson to Elizabeth's beloved Leicester (whose exit is soon after the first Armada), and courtier and rumored lover to Elizabeth. George (and rightly so, I believe) makes little of the supposed love affair, except for one scene that she explains as pure invention, although it provides great insight into Elizabeth's character. George's answer to the virginity question, one she answered both in her panel and in the book, is that Elizabeth did indeed remain a virgin, for practical reasons. Instead, George shows Essex in a truly historical light; he was a petulant spoiled boy filled with dreams of military glory, whose appeal and bids to the populace made him a threat. His own deluded beliefs about his deserts at Elizabeth's hands and then depression at her rejection of him seemed to have even made him a bit deranged in the end. George carefully builds up Essex's interactions with Elizabeth, his long store of non-achievements, and his activities that grow ever more seditious and treasonous. In the book, he is compared to Mary, Queen of Scots in the level of threat he draws, because he is young, handsome and strong and actively courts common favor. Elizabeth could not have him playing her own game against her. I have studied some of the ballads surrounding Essex at the time and these alone make me understand why he was considered so dangerous.
A delightful aspect of this novel is George's obvious rapport with Shakespeare's works and how this leads her to interpret his character as well. Several of Shakespeare's plays feature in the novel; at court, in the theatre, and in dialogue between the characters. In an unlikely but charming twist, she makes Lettice Knollys Shakespeare's Dark Lady (especially unlikely, I think, due to Lettice's red hair, and also, would she stoop so low?) and the Earl of Southampton the Golden Boy of the sonnets. While the latter is more likely, she does in this way sidestep the possibility of Shakespeare's bisexuality and instead keeps his relationship to Southampton as a patron and as a fellow lover of Lettice. Even when not reciting from his plays, George's Shakespeare uses the language one imagines he would, if he talked in a slightly more modern vernacular. I hope she takes him on as her next subject, I would be fascinated to see what she could do with Shakespeare's life.
George concentrates on important aspects of Elizabeth's life that few of her other fictional historians seem to spend much time on. For example, she focuses on the relationship between Elizabeth and her favorite ladies-in-waiting, especially her cousin Catherine Howard (Carey), and Marjorie Norris. Other women rarely figure in tales about Elizabeth, except as adversaries. Yet, Elizabeth was constantly surrounded by women in her private chambers, it's amazing that no one else has found them important enough to more than mention. George places more emphasis on Elizabeth's adventurers, like Drake and Raleigh and their voyages. All of her privateers, not just the best-known, Drake, but John Hawkins, Martin Frobisher, Sir Richard Grenville etc., get at least a mention here. Admittedly, these men get a lot of attention in non-fiction, like The Pirate Queen by Susan Ronald, that I've also been dipping into lately, but in fiction it's all about the Virgin Queen's alleged lovers. Burghley, Cecil, and Walsingham are not particularly original here either, but they've been delved into enough. A recurring theme in George's book is Elizabeth's feeling about the legacy of Henry VIII. In her panel, George explained that Elizabeth separated her father into "the man" and "the king," and as a king, she revered him and craved his approval. I can imagine her father did cast quite a shadow over her life, but how much she wanted to be a part of his legacy and how much she wanted to distance herself from it is another question. She kept his religion, but reversed his policies on war and spending; in many ways her court tried to follow his in grandeur and artistic pursuits though.
Read this book; fans of historical fiction, anyone interested in the Virgin Queen, anyone who loved Wolf Hall, anyone. It's a long book, but deftly written and organized. Just when you're tired of one narrator, the story shifts seamlessly to the other. This is another fictional biography, as great or greater in scope, understanding, and wit as the earlier book.
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LibraryThing member Tangle99
I received this book from the Early reviewer's group and I was initially quite excited about it. However, I find it really hard going and frankly dull. I managed the first chapter and ever since it has sat on my bookshelf waiting for me to pick it up again. Not for me.
LibraryThing member celticlady53
I was so excited when I saw that Elizabeth I by Margaret George was going to be sponsored by Pump Up Your Books for review. Then the book came, 8 1/2 x 11 and 671 pages of a bound galley. Needless to say I felt a bit daunted with the size of the galley. I decided to tackle it right away as I knew
Now about the book, the story is told in two different voices, Elizabeth I and Lettice Knollys. Unlike other historical books about this great Queen, this one starts when Elizabeth is 55 years old and in her 30th year as Queen of England. Most of us know who Elizabeth's parents were and how Elizabeth came to the throne, what a lot of us didn't know was the relationship between Elizabeth and Lettice. Lettice was grandniece of Anne Boleyn and she and Elizabeth were very close since childhood. When Lettice married Robert Dudley Elizabeth was enraged and from then on the two of them were bitter enemies and Lettice was banished from court.
This story told of Spain's quest to take control of England and Elizabeth. The Armada was defeated but they still continued to try to take England as their own. Another historical figure that was a large part of the story was the illegitimate son of Robert Dudley, who played a major role in having plotted to have Elizabeth removed from the throne and as a result he was executed. There is a lot more to the story of course but I do not want to say anymore..you have absolutely got to read this book if you are an English history buff, or love the Tudors, or both...this is the book for you. Margaret George does a wonderful job of telling this awesome story, and her knowledge of history and her research are impeccable. She is the author of The Autobiography of Henry VIII, , Mary Queen of Scotland & The Isles to name a few..after reading this book I know I will be reading more by Margaret George.
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that with life getting in the way and other books to review that this would be a challenge. I set myself a goal of trying to read at least 25-50 pages a day. I didn't read every day of course but I did pretty well, only drawback was that I had to sit at the kitchen table and read it as this was the only comfortable place for me to read a book this size. (The finished hardcover is a bit easier to handle)Now about the book, the story is told in two different voices, Elizabeth I and Lettice Knollys. Unlike other historical books about this great Queen, this one starts when Elizabeth is 55 years old and in her 30th year as Queen of England. Most of us know who Elizabeth's parents were and how Elizabeth came to the throne, what a lot of us didn't know was the relationship between Elizabeth and Lettice. Lettice was grandniece of Anne Boleyn and she and Elizabeth were very close since childhood. When Lettice married Robert Dudley Elizabeth was enraged and from then on the two of them were bitter enemies and Lettice was banished from court.
This story told of Spain's quest to take control of England and Elizabeth. The Armada was defeated but they still continued to try to take England as their own. Another historical figure that was a large part of the story was the illegitimate son of Robert Dudley, who played a major role in having plotted to have Elizabeth removed from the throne and as a result he was executed. There is a lot more to the story of course but I do not want to say anymore..you have absolutely got to read this book if you are an English history buff, or love the Tudors, or both...this is the book for you. Margaret George does a wonderful job of telling this awesome story, and her knowledge of history and her research are impeccable. She is the author of The Autobiography of Henry VIII, , Mary Queen of Scotland & The Isles to name a few..after reading this book I know I will be reading more by Margaret George.
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LibraryThing member dgmlrhodes
Margaret George is one of my favorite authors. Her research and writing are always impeccable. At first I was surprised by her choice to write about Elizabeth Is reign in the later years. However, there are not as many books published about this time making for a unique perspective. The story of a
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strong and powerful woman facing the reality of her declining years makes for a powerful story. The story is good and the two storylines meet at the end wrapping up the story nicely. Well worth the time investment for a long read.(less Show Less
LibraryThing member zquilts
One might think that reading through 688 pages is daunting but I tend to prefer longer novels - they allow me to really reside in the book and get to know the characters. One of my favorite female heroines is Elizabeth the First and one of my favorite historical novelists is Margaret George so I
The novel is co-narrated by Elizabeth herself and begins in 1588 as she enters late middle age . Co-narrator is her cousin, Lettice Knollys - the woman who had the audacity to actually marry the queen's main squeeze - Robert Dudley, The Earl of Leicester. Covering the last 25 years of Elizabeth's illustrious reign this book puts a very human face on the great Queen - complete with her need to keep notes to jog her memory, hot flashes that are troublesome, the sadness of the loss of more and more long time friends and trusted advisers.
The characters are rounded out, well developed and made very human - among the stand-outs are William Shakespeare, Francis Drake, Francis Bacon, Walter Raleigh, William and Robert Cecil and the indomitable Earl of Essex - Robert Deveraux, the step-son of Robert Dudley and the son of Lettice Knollys- who Elizabeth had taken under her wing and upon whom she had lavished many rewards and titles.
The book follows Elizabeth commitment - she is wedded to her country and it's people rather to any man of her choosing - and Lettice who lives a passion filled life of loves and losses. Lettice was banished from the Court upon her marriage to Robert Dudley and the book follows the querulous nature of their relationship and the gradual thawing of the Queen's displeasure as the pair meet on common ground - the garden of Hever castle - former home of their forbears - Anne and Mary Boleyn.
Also featured in the book is Elizabeth's life long friend and confident Catherine Knollys, wife of Sir Francis Knollys and daughter of Mary Boleyn (Lettice Knollys was Mary's grand daughter). Catherine, in the book, is considered the family peace maker. We feel the threat of the Spanish Armada and the Irish threat of the great O'Neill, Lord of Tyrone. All of the political fears and skirmishes of the time are brought to light almost like having a ear on history - like being a fly on the walls of Whitehall and Richmond Palaces. Riveting stuff!
This book is meticulously well researched and it paints a vivid image of what it must have been to be Elizabeth, The Virgin Queen. Historical details bring the period to life and the characters are almost 'touchable'. I loved this book and will, I think, choose to also listen the audible version. I found that Hilary Mantel's "Wolf Hall" really came thoroughly to life when I listened it...and think listening to this book might really highlight my delight with the book even more.
If anything - I would have liked this novel to go on longer. I savored the last pages of this book and was saddened when I finished the last page. It's a book I will, no doubt, re-read.
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figured this would be a perfect combination - and I right!The novel is co-narrated by Elizabeth herself and begins in 1588 as she enters late middle age . Co-narrator is her cousin, Lettice Knollys - the woman who had the audacity to actually marry the queen's main squeeze - Robert Dudley, The Earl of Leicester. Covering the last 25 years of Elizabeth's illustrious reign this book puts a very human face on the great Queen - complete with her need to keep notes to jog her memory, hot flashes that are troublesome, the sadness of the loss of more and more long time friends and trusted advisers.
The characters are rounded out, well developed and made very human - among the stand-outs are William Shakespeare, Francis Drake, Francis Bacon, Walter Raleigh, William and Robert Cecil and the indomitable Earl of Essex - Robert Deveraux, the step-son of Robert Dudley and the son of Lettice Knollys- who Elizabeth had taken under her wing and upon whom she had lavished many rewards and titles.
The book follows Elizabeth commitment - she is wedded to her country and it's people rather to any man of her choosing - and Lettice who lives a passion filled life of loves and losses. Lettice was banished from the Court upon her marriage to Robert Dudley and the book follows the querulous nature of their relationship and the gradual thawing of the Queen's displeasure as the pair meet on common ground - the garden of Hever castle - former home of their forbears - Anne and Mary Boleyn.
Also featured in the book is Elizabeth's life long friend and confident Catherine Knollys, wife of Sir Francis Knollys and daughter of Mary Boleyn (Lettice Knollys was Mary's grand daughter). Catherine, in the book, is considered the family peace maker. We feel the threat of the Spanish Armada and the Irish threat of the great O'Neill, Lord of Tyrone. All of the political fears and skirmishes of the time are brought to light almost like having a ear on history - like being a fly on the walls of Whitehall and Richmond Palaces. Riveting stuff!
This book is meticulously well researched and it paints a vivid image of what it must have been to be Elizabeth, The Virgin Queen. Historical details bring the period to life and the characters are almost 'touchable'. I loved this book and will, I think, choose to also listen the audible version. I found that Hilary Mantel's "Wolf Hall" really came thoroughly to life when I listened it...and think listening to this book might really highlight my delight with the book even more.
If anything - I would have liked this novel to go on longer. I savored the last pages of this book and was saddened when I finished the last page. It's a book I will, no doubt, re-read.
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LibraryThing member mountie9
Fascinating and thoroughly researched -- more in-depth review to come. A little slow at times
LibraryThing member refashionista
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and couldn't put it down until it was finished. Well written, well-researched, it certainly stands side-by-side with other respected treatments of Elizabeth I's life. I highly recommend this to anyone interested in the Tudors!
LibraryThing member katylit
As with all Margaret George books, Elizabeth I is a large, engrossing story, extensively researched and, dare I say, epic in it's telling. It begins with the looming threat of the first Spanish Armada and follows Elizabeth's reign until her death. While the focus is primarily on Elizabeth, George
It is an excellent read, the Elizabethan lifestyle vividly depicted, all the characters intricately and believably portrayed. After spending some time with the book, I always found myself a little "jarred" on entering back into the modern world. I am sorry it's over, but glad I have other Margaret George books to look forward to.
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includes Letticia Knollys as a contrasting, complimentary storyline. The cousins were vastly different in lifestyle, one a queen, unmarried, holding power in her own right, the other thrice married, engaging in multiple affairs, bearing children, having little sway in the political events affecting her life. Yet both are portrayed as passionate, strong-will women, torn by the challenges presented to them.It is an excellent read, the Elizabethan lifestyle vividly depicted, all the characters intricately and believably portrayed. After spending some time with the book, I always found myself a little "jarred" on entering back into the modern world. I am sorry it's over, but glad I have other Margaret George books to look forward to.
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LibraryThing member bhowell
I have read numerous history books and historical novels about Elizabeth I but there is always something new to learn or a different perspective to consider. By starting her story with the Armada, Ms George was able to focus on the queen as a mature ruler and by highlighting her relationship with
to be continued
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her cousin Lettuce Knollys, explore her important relationships with Dudley and later Essex and how they shaped her rule. The novel, however comes into it own with the stong female friendship she shared with her friend and cousin and lady in waiting, Catherine Carey, and her friend and lady in waiting, Marjorie Norris. Her cousin Lettuce Knollys is certainly due her own biograghy. Living to the age of 92 in the 15th century was quite an accomplishment.to be continued
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LibraryThing member Neverwithoutabook
Generally I enjoy a historical novel. I've certainly enjoyed other works by this author, but for some reason I just didn't get caught up in this one. I felt like I had walked into the middle of the story and somehow missed the back story. Names and events rang bells, but on the whole, I just
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couldn't get into this one. Elizabeth came across as rather cold for the most part, but if you are a fan of this period then this book just might be the one for you. Show Less
LibraryThing member gayla.bassham
Meh. It was okay, I guess, but Margaret George is no Sharon Penman.
LibraryThing member BALE
I throughly enjoyed Margaret George's rendition of Elizabeth I's reign. She stays with historical facts while penning her interpretation of Elizabeth's voice and that of her cousin's, Leticia. A fun read for history lovers.
LibraryThing member melaniehope
I loved this book. At over 600 pages, it takes some commitment, but I actually was sad to have it end. This version of Elizabeth I only covers the latter years of her reign. However there is so much history, details of court life and the worries of attacks from Spain and Ireland, to keep the reader
When I first started reading, it did seem a little heavy for me. Lots of military strategies covered in detail. I was not sure if it would be difficult reading throughout the whole book. That definitely was not the case. After about 40 to 50 pages, I could not get enough. The most amazing part is that this a historical story of Queen Elizabeth and that almost the entire book is factual. This was the first book I had read by Margaret George, but I am a definite fan and can't wait to read more by her. I highly recommend this book.
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completely absorbed.When I first started reading, it did seem a little heavy for me. Lots of military strategies covered in detail. I was not sure if it would be difficult reading throughout the whole book. That definitely was not the case. After about 40 to 50 pages, I could not get enough. The most amazing part is that this a historical story of Queen Elizabeth and that almost the entire book is factual. This was the first book I had read by Margaret George, but I am a definite fan and can't wait to read more by her. I highly recommend this book.
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LibraryThing member maryreinert
Who knows what Queen Elizabeth was really like? Who knows what her thoughts were? Who knows the inner workings of Elizabeth's reign? But, who cares. This is just a fun look at a great queen with all the suppositions and imagined conversations and thoughts of not just a queen but a woman reigning
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over a man's world. Much of what takes place in the book is historically accurate: the dates, the wars, the courtieWho knows what Queen Elizabeth was really like? Who knows what her thoughts were? Who knows the inner workings of Elizabeth's reign? But, who cares. This is just a fun look at a great queen with all the suppositions and imagined conversations and thoughts of not just a queen but a woman reigning over a man's world. Much of what takes place in the book is historically accurate: the dates, the wars, the courtiers, the people around her. But beyond that, it's all just fiction. But well written and enthralling fiction. If you love the Tudor era and you love a good historical albeit maybe not accurate novel, you will enjoy reading about Elizabeth I.rs, the people around her. But beyond that, it's all just fiction. But well written and enthralling fiction. If you love the Tudor era and you love a good historical albeit maybe not accurate novel, you will enjoy reading about Elizabeth I. Show Less
LibraryThing member Zumbanista
The year is 1588 and Armada has left Spain for England. Queen Elizabeth is 55 years old.
Elizabeth I by Margaret George tells the story of the later years of Gloriana's reign and features intelligent writing for the most part, but it did take me a longish while to settle into the tale, the events
Both the Queen and Lettice Knollys are written in first person voice, which I dislike at the best of times. In this case, I did feel it drew away from the novel. Also the voices needed to be more distinctive to each character. Finally, I just didn't love the device of alternating chapters between Elizabeth and Lettice.
The book seemed meticulously researched in all respects. Some portions were pedantic with little drama which slowed the reading down.
Overall, I was underwhelmed with this long book (688 pages that felt longer) except for the final third of the book dealing with Essex's final days. I found I had to force myself to chip away at a few chapters a day. I love the Tudors and have read a lot about the era. The writing itself can't really be faulted, except that I found the narrative unexciting overall.
Elizabeth I by Margaret George tells the story of the later years of Gloriana's reign and features intelligent writing for the most part, but it did take me a longish while to settle into the tale, the events
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of which I know well. Both the Queen and Lettice Knollys are written in first person voice, which I dislike at the best of times. In this case, I did feel it drew away from the novel. Also the voices needed to be more distinctive to each character. Finally, I just didn't love the device of alternating chapters between Elizabeth and Lettice.
The book seemed meticulously researched in all respects. Some portions were pedantic with little drama which slowed the reading down.
Overall, I was underwhelmed with this long book (688 pages that felt longer) except for the final third of the book dealing with Essex's final days. I found I had to force myself to chip away at a few chapters a day. I love the Tudors and have read a lot about the era. The writing itself can't really be faulted, except that I found the narrative unexciting overall.
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LibraryThing member AnnieMod
The last 15 years of the life of Elizabeth. The Armada, Essex and the death of all her advisers and friends (including Leicester). And Lettice of course - the woman that got what Elizabeth could not and that is maybe the only person that the monarch hold such a long grudge against. Something in the
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middle of the book did not work very well - at least for me. But as a whole I think I like it. Show Less
Pages
688
ISBN
0670022535 / 9780670022533