What do you think?
Rate this book
The Sister Queens
Two rival queens. An infamous playwright. And a deadly plot for the crown.
London, 1600. With no legitimate heir to Queen Elizabeth's throne, and no clear successor with her modern vision
of a civilization that thrives in peace and diversity, England is in a supremely perilous moment.
Elizabeth's foes understand the power of a poet's voice to shape popular opinion, and force esteemed playwright William Shakespeare to write a script detailing the history of Queen Elizabeth and the catholic Mary Queen of Scots that will tumble the nation into civil war. Faced with a terrible dilemma, Will must navigate a dangerous path through the corridors of the wealthy, the refuse-filled warrens of London and the byzantine world of Elizabethan politics as he tries to save both his family and his own legacy.
London, 1600. With no legitimate heir to Queen Elizabeth's throne, and no clear successor with her modern vision
of a civilization that thrives in peace and diversity, England is in a supremely perilous moment.
Elizabeth's foes understand the power of a poet's voice to shape popular opinion, and force esteemed playwright William Shakespeare to write a script detailing the history of Queen Elizabeth and the catholic Mary Queen of Scots that will tumble the nation into civil war. Faced with a terrible dilemma, Will must navigate a dangerous path through the corridors of the wealthy, the refuse-filled warrens of London and the byzantine world of Elizabethan politics as he tries to save both his family and his own legacy.
288 pages, Hardcover
Published February 6, 2024
15 people are currently reading
149 people want to read
About the author
Justin Scott
104 books90 followersAlso writes as Justin Scott, Paul Garrison, J.S. Blazer, and Alexander Cole.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
December 19, 2023
London 1600, and we’re following master poet and playmaker William Shakespeare, as he finds himself writing a play against his will - a play about Elizabeth Tudor and Mary Queen of Scots, detailing the history of both, and discovering what happened to Mary during her last days of captivity.
However, this play is proving to be very dangerous for Will, because the script (meant to inspire rebellion), would in all likelihood throw the nation into civil war and certainly place his own life in danger.
The Royal Court itself was a hotbed of corruption, and with no legitimate heir to Elizabeth’s throne, the knives are out, and England is in great danger.
Well researched, extremely detailed and interesting, and a great addition to the Historical Fiction genre.
*Thank you to Severn House for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
However, this play is proving to be very dangerous for Will, because the script (meant to inspire rebellion), would in all likelihood throw the nation into civil war and certainly place his own life in danger.
The Royal Court itself was a hotbed of corruption, and with no legitimate heir to Elizabeth’s throne, the knives are out, and England is in great danger.
Well researched, extremely detailed and interesting, and a great addition to the Historical Fiction genre.
*Thank you to Severn House for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
January 7, 2024
I'm always up for a new historical mystery. They're my bread-and-butter reading: not "high" literature, but yummy enough. There are several series out there that feature Shakespeare as detective. The Sister Queens, however, stood out to me among this group because of the complexity of the central problem and the fact that Shakespeare's life may depend upon it in a very real way.
The novel is set late in the reign of Elizabeth I. She refuses to say who should rule after her. Everyone is worried about this topic, speaking of it is treason, and any number of hopefuls, convinced of their right to rule, are scheming in the background. Shakespeare is ordered by a spymaster to write a play about the conflict between Elizabeth and Mary, Queen of Scots, and Mary's execution. Shakespeare knows that writing about the near present is asking for trouble, potentially deadly trouble. There's a reason he's stuck with history plays and Holinshed's Chronicles. He doesn't want his work to be applicable to present-day controversies.
Shakespeare's been told his mother will be prosecuted as a recusant Catholic if he doesn't write the play, so he needs to find a way to complete the project. Part of this challenge is figuring out who is behind the demand for the play and what their aim is. On the surface, this appears to be a plot intended to bring the Earl of Essex, a long-time favorite Elizabeth, to power. He's preening, gathering followers to wear his colors—but attempting to claim the throne would turn him from favorite to tower prisoner in no time.
The situation underlying this book has an equivalent in history. Two years before Elizabeth I's death, Shakespeare's company was ordered to perform Richard II on a particular date. They did, Essex attempted a rebellion, but it fell flat. And yes, he became a tower prisoner in no time. But this fact does not constitute a spoiler.
In The Sister Queens, Shakespeare finds his own way to solve his dilemma, and we get an alternate version of events, one that is surprising and effective.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
The novel is set late in the reign of Elizabeth I. She refuses to say who should rule after her. Everyone is worried about this topic, speaking of it is treason, and any number of hopefuls, convinced of their right to rule, are scheming in the background. Shakespeare is ordered by a spymaster to write a play about the conflict between Elizabeth and Mary, Queen of Scots, and Mary's execution. Shakespeare knows that writing about the near present is asking for trouble, potentially deadly trouble. There's a reason he's stuck with history plays and Holinshed's Chronicles. He doesn't want his work to be applicable to present-day controversies.
Shakespeare's been told his mother will be prosecuted as a recusant Catholic if he doesn't write the play, so he needs to find a way to complete the project. Part of this challenge is figuring out who is behind the demand for the play and what their aim is. On the surface, this appears to be a plot intended to bring the Earl of Essex, a long-time favorite Elizabeth, to power. He's preening, gathering followers to wear his colors—but attempting to claim the throne would turn him from favorite to tower prisoner in no time.
The situation underlying this book has an equivalent in history. Two years before Elizabeth I's death, Shakespeare's company was ordered to perform Richard II on a particular date. They did, Essex attempted a rebellion, but it fell flat. And yes, he became a tower prisoner in no time. But this fact does not constitute a spoiler.
In The Sister Queens, Shakespeare finds his own way to solve his dilemma, and we get an alternate version of events, one that is surprising and effective.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
February 10, 2024
It's the winter of 1600-1601, London. Queen Elizabeth has reigned over England for over forty years. Gloriana, however, has not married and has refused to name an heir, much to her counsellors' consternation.
The obvious choice lies in her Scots cousin, King James VI, whose mother, Mary, Queen of Scots, Elizabeth executed in 1587. Some favor a candidate closer to home: Robert Devereux, Earl of Essex. Brash and handsome, Essex has enjoyed the queen's favor.
In an effort to sway the scales, the spymaster Anthony Bacon tasks master playwright William Shakespeare with crafting a play called "The Sister Queens". Who's ultimately behind the scheme? To what end do they seek the play's creation? Can Will pull off the play of a lifetime...and survive with his life intact?
Author Justin Scott offers readers a glimpse into the mind and heart of England's greatest playwright. He breathes life into a well-meaning and talented artist, troubled by tumultuous times.
We meet some of the period's greats: Ben Jonson, Dick Burbage, and more. We weave through London's dirty warrens alongside Will, hoping he will succeed. We experience the dynamic and complex politics of Elizabethan England.
Sometimes, however, the plot moves slowly, and one big twist at the novel's end doesn't necessarily move the plot forward. But, with a strong cast of dastardly rakes, conniving spies, and cunning women, "The Sister Queens" deserves a standing ovation.
Out now! Thank you to the author and Severn House for a copy of this novel via NetGalley!
The obvious choice lies in her Scots cousin, King James VI, whose mother, Mary, Queen of Scots, Elizabeth executed in 1587. Some favor a candidate closer to home: Robert Devereux, Earl of Essex. Brash and handsome, Essex has enjoyed the queen's favor.
In an effort to sway the scales, the spymaster Anthony Bacon tasks master playwright William Shakespeare with crafting a play called "The Sister Queens". Who's ultimately behind the scheme? To what end do they seek the play's creation? Can Will pull off the play of a lifetime...and survive with his life intact?
Author Justin Scott offers readers a glimpse into the mind and heart of England's greatest playwright. He breathes life into a well-meaning and talented artist, troubled by tumultuous times.
We meet some of the period's greats: Ben Jonson, Dick Burbage, and more. We weave through London's dirty warrens alongside Will, hoping he will succeed. We experience the dynamic and complex politics of Elizabethan England.
Sometimes, however, the plot moves slowly, and one big twist at the novel's end doesn't necessarily move the plot forward. But, with a strong cast of dastardly rakes, conniving spies, and cunning women, "The Sister Queens" deserves a standing ovation.
Out now! Thank you to the author and Severn House for a copy of this novel via NetGalley!
February 12, 2024
It is the year 1600, and 67-year-old Queen Elizabeth I is still on the throne of England. Playwright William Shakespeare is being threatened and blackmailed by the dangerous and powerful Robert Cecil, who wants Shakespeare to write a play titled "Sister Queens" about Elizabeth and the 13-year dead Mary, Queen of Scots. But not only is Cecil threatening him and his secretly Catholic mother, but the Bacon brothers, the Earl of Essex and other unknowns try to hurt/kill him. How is someone supposed to write? He discovers all sorts of secrets and is trying to finish Hamlet and write for Cecil at the same time. Fortunately, he has allies to help him, including fellow writer Ben Jonson. The author puts readers in a very horrible time of religious strife and torture, and readers will be cheering on Shakespeare to succeed. It also made me want to see "Sister Queens" on the stage at Stratford if Shakespeare had written it.
February 29, 2024
Loved the premise that William Shakespeare is press ganged into writing a new play “The Sister Queens’ , fictionalising the rivalry between Elizabeth 1 and her cousin, Mary, Queen of Scots.
The plot twist is that the briber is insistent that Will shows that Mary never plotted treason against the Queen and she was falsely accused on trumped up evidence.
Loved the colloquial speech of the period, really made you feel you were there among crowds, observing
“Will met his eye. He was done with ducking his head and doffing his cap”
“Who knows what of my next play? Me thinks my poems consume my efforts now”
This novel would be make the perfect tv miniseries
Well researched and extremely interesting in the level detail, making you totally absorbed in the period.
Thanks @justinscott @severnhouse & @netgalley for the intriguing plot and the larger than life characters - perfect historical fiction read
The plot twist is that the briber is insistent that Will shows that Mary never plotted treason against the Queen and she was falsely accused on trumped up evidence.
Loved the colloquial speech of the period, really made you feel you were there among crowds, observing
“Will met his eye. He was done with ducking his head and doffing his cap”
“Who knows what of my next play? Me thinks my poems consume my efforts now”
This novel would be make the perfect tv miniseries
Well researched and extremely interesting in the level detail, making you totally absorbed in the period.
Thanks @justinscott @severnhouse & @netgalley for the intriguing plot and the larger than life characters - perfect historical fiction read
June 17, 2024
The Sister Queens manages to be quite the paradox — it's a fictional novel about a historical person writing a fictional play about a historical event. Justin Scott, famed mystery novel writer, dazzles with a historical fiction novel that is worthy of any Shakespeare-lover. I didn't know what exactly I was signing up for when I started it, but Scott managed to surprise and delight me on every page, combining historical reimaginings with a rollercoaster of a mystery and a fascinating look at the Bard himself as a tool of espionage.
On the brink of the Earl of Essex's rebellion in 1600, playwright and poet Will Shakespeare is approached by the shadowy master of Essex's spies, Anthony Bacon, who commissions Will to write a play entitled The Sister Queens, which will potentially set a chain of events in motion that will allow the ambitious Essex to succeed the throne after Queen Elizabeth I dies. Unsure of who to trust, Will begins doing research for the play, seeking out sources who inform him of conspiracies against the long-deceased Mary Queen of Scots and a plethora of tricky rivals who each have a master plan of their own. Will quickly realizes that he is far out of his league, but the more he learns about the various plots to steal the throne, the more he realizes how vital he and The Sister Queens will be to keeping England safe and preserving the Queen's reign. What follows is his venture into the tangled web of spies, assassins, and government secrets that make Hamlet look like a comedy and put Will and everyone he loves in deadly danger.
Let me just say, first of all, that The Sister Queens is so far up my alley that it's practically nesting in my chimney. William Shakespeare? Queen Elizabeth I? All the motley characters of Elizabethan England? A lost play by Shakespeare that challenged everything about the plot to steal the crown? Catholicism vs. Protestantism? Cloaks and daggers? Mysterious alliances? Suppressed romances? The Sister Queens has every ingredient for a masterpiece of a historical spy novel, and Scott truly turns out a remarkable piece of literature as he tackles so many character motivations and plot threads that I almost couldn't keep up. Scott's Will Shakespeare is clever, competent, but fatally human, in the way that all Shakespeare's best characters were.
Scott's storyline is complex almost to a fault, verging on King Lear levels of convolution and multiplicity. The basic premise is fantastic, and Scott wastes no time in leaping directly into the story — Will Shakespeare is to write a play that will turn the hearts of the people of London in a direction that will sway their government forever. However, despite the clever twists and the occasional exposition to make sure we know what's going on, Scott tends to get lost in his own brilliance, inserting dozens of interesting characters who only show up occasionally. Still, he keeps his book fast-paced and tight, never waxing too verbose and just letting the action speak for itself. Despite the chaos of the plot, Scott knows his readers and plays them as Shakespeare did his audience.
That's what makes this such a great Shakespeare novel: it feels like Shakespeare. Scott doesn't fall into the trappings of bardolatry that trip up so many modern writers. To Scott, Will Shakespeare is just a guy trying to keep himself alive when he's plunged headfirst against an iceberg that he can't even find the tip of. On the contrary, Will's relative realism is countered by the fantastical assortment of stock characters he is surrounded by, all of whom give off the vibe of being plucked directly from one of Shakespeare's plays. The story plays out much in the way Shakespeare's own stories often do — with enough betrayals, love affairs, and master-strokes to entertain the masses and puzzle the intellectuals.
One of Scott's strongest skills is his mastery of language, which he uses to his utmost advantage (again, just like Shakespeare always did). Combining 21st century narration with dialogue that has a distinct Shakespearean flavor, Scott effortlessly puts us in the time period and gives the vibe of a person who has loved, studied, and emulated Shakespeare for decades. He also manages to include a seriously impressive arsenal of vocabulary words, throwing around words like "artless", "mazed", "bantam", "amanuensis", "ponderosity", "semblable", "dudgeon", "scurrilous", "suborn", and dozens of others as if it's second nature. Scott also plays with Shakespeare's habit of creating new words to suit what he's trying to say. Will and Southampton (and the Countess) share a number of hilarious exchanges on this topic:
Without spending too much time waxing loquacious, I'll just list a few other things I loved about The Sister Queens, including but not limited to — the many allusions / inspirations for Shakespeare's plays (like Nell and Susan). The insane amount of historical attention to detail that went into crafting the plot, characters, and backdrop. The relationships Will forges with everyone he encounters, even if only for one scene. Several very strong, cunning, good-hearted, complex female characters who move the plot forward and never are reduced to simple love interests. The coolest word battles and turns of phrase that Shakespeare himself would have approved. The fact that Scott tackles the Shakespeare/Francis Bacon conspiracy in the funniest way possible. The way Will slowly gets to an even playing field with Anthony Bacon and is able to match wits with him. The fact that Will has a literal mind palace, à la Benedict Cumberbatch's Sherlock Holmes. The absolute love and honor of one of Shakespeare's greatest characters, Sir John Falstaff, and the way the mariners shape Will's resurrection of the beloved character. The big reveal at the end: that Queen Elizabeth herself was the mastermind of the whole novel, and that nothing is going to happen that she hasn't already planned and checkmated (see what I did there?).
The Sister Queens isn't perfect — Scott's story often runs itself in circles, forsaking characterization for cramming as many famous Elizabethan persons as possible, and adding a couple of plot twists at the end that feel like they have absolute no bearing on the story . However, The Sister Queens possesses a certain enthusiasm and obvious love for the subject material that many novels lack. Justin Scott is a top-notch writer who can hold his own in any genre (as he has proven), and his apparent passion for Shakespeare is one that I hope he will pursue in the future. After all, who can resist the master playmaker as the Elizabethan equivalent of Jason Bourne?
On the brink of the Earl of Essex's rebellion in 1600, playwright and poet Will Shakespeare is approached by the shadowy master of Essex's spies, Anthony Bacon, who commissions Will to write a play entitled The Sister Queens, which will potentially set a chain of events in motion that will allow the ambitious Essex to succeed the throne after Queen Elizabeth I dies. Unsure of who to trust, Will begins doing research for the play, seeking out sources who inform him of conspiracies against the long-deceased Mary Queen of Scots and a plethora of tricky rivals who each have a master plan of their own. Will quickly realizes that he is far out of his league, but the more he learns about the various plots to steal the throne, the more he realizes how vital he and The Sister Queens will be to keeping England safe and preserving the Queen's reign. What follows is his venture into the tangled web of spies, assassins, and government secrets that make Hamlet look like a comedy and put Will and everyone he loves in deadly danger.
Let me just say, first of all, that The Sister Queens is so far up my alley that it's practically nesting in my chimney. William Shakespeare? Queen Elizabeth I? All the motley characters of Elizabethan England? A lost play by Shakespeare that challenged everything about the plot to steal the crown? Catholicism vs. Protestantism? Cloaks and daggers? Mysterious alliances? Suppressed romances? The Sister Queens has every ingredient for a masterpiece of a historical spy novel, and Scott truly turns out a remarkable piece of literature as he tackles so many character motivations and plot threads that I almost couldn't keep up. Scott's Will Shakespeare is clever, competent, but fatally human, in the way that all Shakespeare's best characters were.
"Will had long ago learned not to interrupt when an admirer described his play as if the poet was hearing the plot for the first time."
Scott's storyline is complex almost to a fault, verging on King Lear levels of convolution and multiplicity. The basic premise is fantastic, and Scott wastes no time in leaping directly into the story — Will Shakespeare is to write a play that will turn the hearts of the people of London in a direction that will sway their government forever. However, despite the clever twists and the occasional exposition to make sure we know what's going on, Scott tends to get lost in his own brilliance, inserting dozens of interesting characters who only show up occasionally. Still, he keeps his book fast-paced and tight, never waxing too verbose and just letting the action speak for itself. Despite the chaos of the plot, Scott knows his readers and plays them as Shakespeare did his audience.
“Most powerful men, and all critics, secretly hated poets because the poets' ability to deliver the muse's merchandise made them noble as gods. The dismal fools can't imagine what it's like to thank God at the end of an endless night for a short row of words that come vaguely close to what you had hoped to say the day before.”
That's what makes this such a great Shakespeare novel: it feels like Shakespeare. Scott doesn't fall into the trappings of bardolatry that trip up so many modern writers. To Scott, Will Shakespeare is just a guy trying to keep himself alive when he's plunged headfirst against an iceberg that he can't even find the tip of. On the contrary, Will's relative realism is countered by the fantastical assortment of stock characters he is surrounded by, all of whom give off the vibe of being plucked directly from one of Shakespeare's plays. The story plays out much in the way Shakespeare's own stories often do — with enough betrayals, love affairs, and master-strokes to entertain the masses and puzzle the intellectuals.
“For most roles the playmaker has to hunt words to put in their mouths. With Falstaff I run alongside him, scratching what he says in my table-book.”
One of Scott's strongest skills is his mastery of language, which he uses to his utmost advantage (again, just like Shakespeare always did). Combining 21st century narration with dialogue that has a distinct Shakespearean flavor, Scott effortlessly puts us in the time period and gives the vibe of a person who has loved, studied, and emulated Shakespeare for decades. He also manages to include a seriously impressive arsenal of vocabulary words, throwing around words like "artless", "mazed", "bantam", "amanuensis", "ponderosity", "semblable", "dudgeon", "scurrilous", "suborn", and dozens of others as if it's second nature. Scott also plays with Shakespeare's habit of creating new words to suit what he's trying to say. Will and Southampton (and the Countess) share a number of hilarious exchanges on this topic:
“What a word, Will! Vandalized! Did you just make that up?"
"It was you who spoke of Vandals, sir."
"Yes, I did! An excellent word.”
Without spending too much time waxing loquacious, I'll just list a few other things I loved about The Sister Queens, including but not limited to — the many allusions / inspirations for Shakespeare's plays (like Nell and Susan). The insane amount of historical attention to detail that went into crafting the plot, characters, and backdrop. The relationships Will forges with everyone he encounters, even if only for one scene. Several very strong, cunning, good-hearted, complex female characters who move the plot forward and never are reduced to simple love interests. The coolest word battles and turns of phrase that Shakespeare himself would have approved. The fact that Scott tackles the Shakespeare/Francis Bacon conspiracy in the funniest way possible. The way Will slowly gets to an even playing field with Anthony Bacon and is able to match wits with him. The fact that Will has a literal mind palace, à la Benedict Cumberbatch's Sherlock Holmes. The absolute love and honor of one of Shakespeare's greatest characters, Sir John Falstaff, and the way the mariners shape Will's resurrection of the beloved character. The big reveal at the end: that Queen Elizabeth herself was the mastermind of the whole novel, and that nothing is going to happen that she hasn't already planned and checkmated (see what I did there?).
The Sister Queens isn't perfect — Scott's story often runs itself in circles, forsaking characterization for cramming as many famous Elizabethan persons as possible, and adding a couple of plot twists at the end that feel like they have absolute no bearing on the story . However, The Sister Queens possesses a certain enthusiasm and obvious love for the subject material that many novels lack. Justin Scott is a top-notch writer who can hold his own in any genre (as he has proven), and his apparent passion for Shakespeare is one that I hope he will pursue in the future. After all, who can resist the master playmaker as the Elizabethan equivalent of Jason Bourne?
January 27, 2024
The year is 1600. Queen Elizabeth is in failing health, but will not name her successor. Robert Cecil, her Secretary of State, wants a smooth transition of monarchy, to prevent any attempts at rebellion or a foreign country taking too keen an interest in an empty throne.
King James of Scotland is the natural heir, and Elizabeth is probably reluctant to be in communication with him as she signed the death warrant of his mother, Mary Stuart, or Mary, Queen of Scots.
This book is based on the suggestion that William Shakespeare, a man who is a very proficient wordsmith must write a play about this tricky situation, a play which emphasises the triumph of Elizabeth over Mary, but as secrets about Mary’s imprisonment and death are discovered, Elizabeth becomes suspected of the murder of her cousin Queen.
Shakespeare decides that this play will be a dangerous endeavour, and there are others who conspire to put the Earl of Essex upon the throne
Once a favourite of Queen Elizabeth, he believes he can raise an army and fight for the throne himself, and make a better King than King James, who will be blamed if the conspiracy to usurp the Queen goes wrong.
How to avoid civil war is best served by the power of words, which can be used to shape a nation, Shakespeare must write his play to prevent a challenge to the throne.
I read my first book about Mary, Queen of Scots when I was aged 11, and have read numerous others since, so I was rather taken aback by the assertion by the claim in the opening cast list of characters, that Mary was executed in the Tower of London. Mary Stuart was beheaded at Fotheringhay Castle in Northamptonshire in February 1587, having been kept a prisoner there since September 1586.
I had not heard the name Walt Grinner as being the axeman either, the name Bull, the public executioner, is the name usually attributed to the man performing the grisly beheading.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers Severn House for my advanced copy, freely given in exchange for my honest review. I will leave a copy of this to Goodreads and Amazon UK later. A four star read.
King James of Scotland is the natural heir, and Elizabeth is probably reluctant to be in communication with him as she signed the death warrant of his mother, Mary Stuart, or Mary, Queen of Scots.
This book is based on the suggestion that William Shakespeare, a man who is a very proficient wordsmith must write a play about this tricky situation, a play which emphasises the triumph of Elizabeth over Mary, but as secrets about Mary’s imprisonment and death are discovered, Elizabeth becomes suspected of the murder of her cousin Queen.
Shakespeare decides that this play will be a dangerous endeavour, and there are others who conspire to put the Earl of Essex upon the throne
Once a favourite of Queen Elizabeth, he believes he can raise an army and fight for the throne himself, and make a better King than King James, who will be blamed if the conspiracy to usurp the Queen goes wrong.
How to avoid civil war is best served by the power of words, which can be used to shape a nation, Shakespeare must write his play to prevent a challenge to the throne.
I read my first book about Mary, Queen of Scots when I was aged 11, and have read numerous others since, so I was rather taken aback by the assertion by the claim in the opening cast list of characters, that Mary was executed in the Tower of London. Mary Stuart was beheaded at Fotheringhay Castle in Northamptonshire in February 1587, having been kept a prisoner there since September 1586.
I had not heard the name Walt Grinner as being the axeman either, the name Bull, the public executioner, is the name usually attributed to the man performing the grisly beheading.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers Severn House for my advanced copy, freely given in exchange for my honest review. I will leave a copy of this to Goodreads and Amazon UK later. A four star read.
November 28, 2023
*Thank you NetGalley for the e-Arc!*
A beautifully written suspenseful historical fiction and mystery, following a master poet and playmaker as he attempts to keep the waters steady between opposing sides whilst writing a play that may shake the grounds beneath his and all of England’s feet. Threats linger in the air like a veil of deathly smog, and it is quickly learned that trust is to be fully placed in no one, no matter how they display their loyalty.
“You are no man’s tool.”
“I am my own”
Historical fiction is not typically a genre I would pick up, but I was quickly captivated and ensnared by the thriller and utterly apprehensive mystery this book quickly became. I truly did not think I would enjoy this as much as I did.
The plot twists in this story are wonderfully weaved in!
What I liked - the beautiful writing, the suspense, the wonderful evolution of the characters through the storyline, the plot itself, the fast pace & action, and of course our witty, mature, clever and street smart main character, William Shakespeare.
What I thought could have been improved upon - The story was great, but I often found it difficult to keep the characters straight. There is a helpful guide at the front, but going back to locate everything takes a while. I also found that I didn’t have much of a connection to many of the characters as I normally would in many other books I have read in the past.
So, overall, I would recommend this book to historical fiction, mystery, and thriller lovers, especially those who are fond of Shakespeare and the renaissance time period.
A beautifully written suspenseful historical fiction and mystery, following a master poet and playmaker as he attempts to keep the waters steady between opposing sides whilst writing a play that may shake the grounds beneath his and all of England’s feet. Threats linger in the air like a veil of deathly smog, and it is quickly learned that trust is to be fully placed in no one, no matter how they display their loyalty.
“You are no man’s tool.”
“I am my own”
Historical fiction is not typically a genre I would pick up, but I was quickly captivated and ensnared by the thriller and utterly apprehensive mystery this book quickly became. I truly did not think I would enjoy this as much as I did.
The plot twists in this story are wonderfully weaved in!
What I liked - the beautiful writing, the suspense, the wonderful evolution of the characters through the storyline, the plot itself, the fast pace & action, and of course our witty, mature, clever and street smart main character, William Shakespeare.
What I thought could have been improved upon - The story was great, but I often found it difficult to keep the characters straight. There is a helpful guide at the front, but going back to locate everything takes a while. I also found that I didn’t have much of a connection to many of the characters as I normally would in many other books I have read in the past.
So, overall, I would recommend this book to historical fiction, mystery, and thriller lovers, especially those who are fond of Shakespeare and the renaissance time period.
Read
February 4, 2024At a time in England when Catholics had to hide due to the penalty of death for not joining the Church of England the unstoppable William Shakespeare and his fancy assistant are being forced to write a play that essentially is propaganda and of course it wouldn’t be a mid evil mystery without the Lord of Norfolk involved with his love ones being threatened he feels compelled to write the play but wants to know who is insisting he do it? When the play is getting put together in about to begin he will find out what he wants to know but he will also learn from his mother something that will rock his world and he never knew he needed to know. When I requested this book on NetGalley I had no clue it was written by that Justin Scott, mr. Scott is one of those authors who doesn’t depend on tropes or popular themes he has been writing books since before they went digital and I have been reading his books since then. He’s one of those authors I read before I went blind he’s an awesome writer and never disappoints and he certainly didn’t with The Sister Queens this book was so good with a great mystery and a surprising twist it is a book I definitely recommend if you want to read a book by an author who only relies on his talent then you should definitely read this one you can tell by his writing he has a love for history and it comes through with his descriptions and historical accuracy. I want to thank sevrin house and net galley for my free Ark copy please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
June 17, 2024
BOOK: The Sister Queens
Author: Justin Scott
Publisher: Severn House
Length:288 Pages
Overall Rating: 5 Stars
Blog Rating:5 Saltire Stars
London, 1600
Queen Mary of Scots, Queen Elizabeth I of England and well known playwright William Shakesphere. It is highly anticipated for a killer plot for the crown,
Two Queens who are related by blood being cousins the problem is Queen Elizabeth has no heir being the virgin Queen. So she is in a dangerous situation where the catholic Scottish Queen is her biggest competition!
Elizather is extremely intelligent and comprehends that this playwright is highly regarded, however it puts him in an extremely dangerous situation. Shakespeare’s stories could put them into a national civil war. What shall this popular playwright do to keep his head connected to his neck? He must do everything to keep his family and himself safe from the evil politics of the crown while protecting his own legacy.
A phenomenal book with so many twists and turns that is absolutely mind blowing. Book readers and history lovers will be absolutely dazzled from start to finish.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy and an advance reader copy from the publisher. I voluntarily agreed to do a fair review and blog through netgalley. All thoughts, ideas and words are my own.
Author: Justin Scott
Publisher: Severn House
Length:288 Pages
Overall Rating: 5 Stars
Blog Rating:5 Saltire Stars
London, 1600
Queen Mary of Scots, Queen Elizabeth I of England and well known playwright William Shakesphere. It is highly anticipated for a killer plot for the crown,
Two Queens who are related by blood being cousins the problem is Queen Elizabeth has no heir being the virgin Queen. So she is in a dangerous situation where the catholic Scottish Queen is her biggest competition!
Elizather is extremely intelligent and comprehends that this playwright is highly regarded, however it puts him in an extremely dangerous situation. Shakespeare’s stories could put them into a national civil war. What shall this popular playwright do to keep his head connected to his neck? He must do everything to keep his family and himself safe from the evil politics of the crown while protecting his own legacy.
A phenomenal book with so many twists and turns that is absolutely mind blowing. Book readers and history lovers will be absolutely dazzled from start to finish.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy and an advance reader copy from the publisher. I voluntarily agreed to do a fair review and blog through netgalley. All thoughts, ideas and words are my own.
February 15, 2024
This was a great read, and something that felt different and original.
I loved seeing Will as a flesh and blood character and enjoyed seeing him come to life. He’s witty, fun, intelligent and very easy to identify with and join in on his adventures. I particularly enjoyed how Scott weaved Shakespeare’s creative process into the storyline, and the reader sees his play being created alongside the adventures of Will’s own life.
The plot kept me hooked as it is full of unique characters, plots and danger, and often left me trying to figure out who could be trusted and who could not. It made for an intriguing storyline, with some great twists and revelations.
Scott creates a very immersive world, and it’s easy to get absorbed into Elizabethan London; from the dark alleys and banks of the Thames, to the magic and bustle of the playhouses. Then there was the undertone of religion and the dangers of faith; a very relevant and authentic part of the period, and something which laced the plot with another wider and unsettling conflict.
Overall The Sister Queens provided a great fictional story of one of England’s most famous playwrights, with a distinct voice and a well-crafted plot.
I loved seeing Will as a flesh and blood character and enjoyed seeing him come to life. He’s witty, fun, intelligent and very easy to identify with and join in on his adventures. I particularly enjoyed how Scott weaved Shakespeare’s creative process into the storyline, and the reader sees his play being created alongside the adventures of Will’s own life.
The plot kept me hooked as it is full of unique characters, plots and danger, and often left me trying to figure out who could be trusted and who could not. It made for an intriguing storyline, with some great twists and revelations.
Scott creates a very immersive world, and it’s easy to get absorbed into Elizabethan London; from the dark alleys and banks of the Thames, to the magic and bustle of the playhouses. Then there was the undertone of religion and the dangers of faith; a very relevant and authentic part of the period, and something which laced the plot with another wider and unsettling conflict.
Overall The Sister Queens provided a great fictional story of one of England’s most famous playwrights, with a distinct voice and a well-crafted plot.
January 10, 2024
This book centres around Elizabeth I, now an aging queen who will not name her successor, and William Shakespeare. It is well written, with some glorious dialogue in the words of the age and as you would expect with the premier playwright at the helm. Shakespeare is drawn into intrigue between the Earl of Essex (and Shakespeare's sponsor Shrewsbury) and Robert Cecil. Essex fancies himself as the next king, but he is out of favour with Elizabeth. Cecil prefers Mary, Queen of Scots' son James, but is determined at all costs to avoid civil war.
Enter Shakespeare, commissioned to write a play about the two queens - Elizabeth and Mary - in an effort to avert war. But he is torn as new evidence appears and friends, and even he, are in jeopardy.
A very enjoyable read, perhaps a little slow in parts, but full of glorious images of the day. Thank you to NetGalley and Severn House for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Enter Shakespeare, commissioned to write a play about the two queens - Elizabeth and Mary - in an effort to avert war. But he is torn as new evidence appears and friends, and even he, are in jeopardy.
A very enjoyable read, perhaps a little slow in parts, but full of glorious images of the day. Thank you to NetGalley and Severn House for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 30, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley, Justin Scott, and Severn House for allowing me to read an advanced copy of The Sister Queens. I received an advanced reader copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
An exciting historical fiction novel involving William Shakespeare. He is tasked to write a play against his will about Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots, including what happened to Mary in her final days of captivity.
There is a lot of danger around every corner. A lot of mystery to uncover. Intriguing plot and interesting characters. Well written and researched.
An exciting historical fiction novel involving William Shakespeare. He is tasked to write a play against his will about Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots, including what happened to Mary in her final days of captivity.
There is a lot of danger around every corner. A lot of mystery to uncover. Intriguing plot and interesting characters. Well written and researched.
February 1, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Severn House for this eCopy to review
The Sister Queens was an interesting concept that Shakespeare was commissioned to write a new play about Queen Elizabeth and Mary Queen of Scots and who will be Elizabeth's heir. The ending was good but it took a very long time to get there. Most of the novel was very slow and difficult to follow with danger and treachery round every corner
The Sister Queens was an interesting concept that Shakespeare was commissioned to write a new play about Queen Elizabeth and Mary Queen of Scots and who will be Elizabeth's heir. The ending was good but it took a very long time to get there. Most of the novel was very slow and difficult to follow with danger and treachery round every corner
February 2, 2024
I love Tudor history, regular and fictional. But this just didn't grab my fancy. I got halfway through and skimmed the rest. It's an interesting take on Essex and Elizabeth I's relationship, but it just wasn't feasible. Especially when you discover who actually propositioned Shakespeare initially. (Slight spoiler) I want to say I fully enjoyed it....but I can't because I didn't.
Thanks to NetGalley for access to this advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thanks to NetGalley for access to this advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 16, 2024
Shakespearean Nightmare!
While I liked the basic premise of The Sister Queens, I didn’t enjoy the book and, thus, can not recommend it, My dissatisfaction stems from it being written in “an English style” that made it very difficult to follow, its plot being very convoluted, and its character development being just serviceable at best.
I’ve been a fan of several of Justin Scott’s earlier books, however, I had a tough time finishing The Sister Queens.
While I liked the basic premise of The Sister Queens, I didn’t enjoy the book and, thus, can not recommend it, My dissatisfaction stems from it being written in “an English style” that made it very difficult to follow, its plot being very convoluted, and its character development being just serviceable at best.
I’ve been a fan of several of Justin Scott’s earlier books, however, I had a tough time finishing The Sister Queens.
November 5, 2023
The story flowed well and the characters were well developed. I recommend this book and look forward to more from this author.
****Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review****
****Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review****
November 11, 2023
An excellent story of Will Shakespeare and the end of Elizabeth Tudor’s reign. As Shakespeare discovers what happened to Mary, Queen of Scots during the last days of her captivity, we explore the last days of Elizabeth’s reign, and watch as Shakespeare foils the Earl of Essex’s rebellion.
February 6, 2024
A well plotted and fascinating historical fiction about the last days of Elizabeth I and how Shakespeare helped to avoid political chaos by writing a play.
Well plotted, vivid historical background, compelling.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Well plotted, vivid historical background, compelling.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
March 17, 2024
Just could not get into it. Did not finish.
February 9, 2024
Full disclosure - author Justin Scott is a dear friend. I got to read a galley copy of this novel.
That being said, I think THE SISTER QUEENS is simply sensational. I have read almost everything this prolific author has written, and this is far and away his greatest achievement. It's a rip-roaring thriller - starring none other than William Shakespeare! The Bard is pulled into the machinations of dueling aristocrats, each plotting to upset the Crown for their own gain. The court intrigue is liberally mixed with the backroom taverns of London's seediest establishments.
Justin Scott knows his way around 17th-Century London as if he were there in the flesh. His adventure zips down shady alleys and along the Thames with utter mastery of place and time. His characters range from street-corner cutpurses to no less ruthless barons. Shakespeare, with occasional help from Ben Jonson, has to dodge the conniving factions while ensuring that his own play gets into rehearsal, that his family remains safe, and that he not get knifed by any number of unscrupulous fellows.
It's all tremendous fun, and a total delight to read. Treat yourself!
That being said, I think THE SISTER QUEENS is simply sensational. I have read almost everything this prolific author has written, and this is far and away his greatest achievement. It's a rip-roaring thriller - starring none other than William Shakespeare! The Bard is pulled into the machinations of dueling aristocrats, each plotting to upset the Crown for their own gain. The court intrigue is liberally mixed with the backroom taverns of London's seediest establishments.
Justin Scott knows his way around 17th-Century London as if he were there in the flesh. His adventure zips down shady alleys and along the Thames with utter mastery of place and time. His characters range from street-corner cutpurses to no less ruthless barons. Shakespeare, with occasional help from Ben Jonson, has to dodge the conniving factions while ensuring that his own play gets into rehearsal, that his family remains safe, and that he not get knifed by any number of unscrupulous fellows.
It's all tremendous fun, and a total delight to read. Treat yourself!
June 26, 2024
In this high-stakes historical fiction novel, readers enter the uncertain last years of Queen Elizabeth I’s reign before her death when she had not named an heir. Following one of her most famous subjects, playwright William Shakespeare, readers gain some insight into the political machinations of her court and the desperate attempts to have the Queen name her heir. Focusing on the rival court factions and his latest play commission -- one about the Queen and her late cousin Mary Queen of Scots -- Will struggles to navigate the high-stakes environment and come out safe and secure on the right side of the court. Scott uses familiar characters from this late Elizabethan period, such as Essex, Shakespeare’s patron, and others in his literary and patronage circle, to establish characters, motivations, agendas, and backgrounds as relevant to the larger narrative he seeks to build in this novel. The speculation of a possible play about Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots serves as a fascinating political and creative backdrop for this larger narrative, though it does, in some ways, act as a MacGuffin device. Scott’s historical fiction novel is a fascinating socio-political insight into this late Elizabethan period as experienced by one of its great figures.
Thanks to NetGalley and Severn House for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Severn House for the advance copy.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews