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Daughters of the North: Jean Gordon and Mary, Queen of Scots
Mary, Queen of Scots’ marriage to the Earl of Bothwell is notorious. Less known is Bothwell’s first wife, Jean Gordon, who extricated herself from their marriage and survived the intrigue of the Queen’s court.
Daughters of the North reframes this turbulent period in history by focusing on Jean, who became Countess of Sutherland. Follow her from the intrigues of Mary’s court to the blood feuds and clan battles of the Far North of Scotland, from her place as the daughter of the ‘King of the North’ to her disastrous union with the infamous Earl of Bothwell – and her lasting legacy to the Earldom of Sutherland.
Daughters of the North reframes this turbulent period in history by focusing on Jean, who became Countess of Sutherland. Follow her from the intrigues of Mary’s court to the blood feuds and clan battles of the Far North of Scotland, from her place as the daughter of the ‘King of the North’ to her disastrous union with the infamous Earl of Bothwell – and her lasting legacy to the Earldom of Sutherland.
432 pages, Paperback
First published March 17, 2022
About the author
Jennifer Morag Henderson
3 books4 followersJennifer Morag Henderson is a Scottish writer. Her most recent book is historical biography Daughters of the North: Jean Gordon and Mary, Queen of Scots (Whittles, 2025). Her biography in poetry Jofrid Gunn will be published in August by Shearsman Books.
Jennifer’s first book, Josephine Tey: A Life (Sandstone, 2015, republished 2021), is the first biography of Scottish crime writer, novelist and playwright Tey, aka Gordon Daviot or Elizabeth MacKintosh. It was listed as a Book of the Year by the Observer, Independent and Telegraph.
Jennifer’s first book, Josephine Tey: A Life (Sandstone, 2015, republished 2021), is the first biography of Scottish crime writer, novelist and playwright Tey, aka Gordon Daviot or Elizabeth MacKintosh. It was listed as a Book of the Year by the Observer, Independent and Telegraph.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
April 20, 2022
To write a fascinating book on Mary, the Queen of Scotts, is not an easy task as this is one of the most popular historic figures who appears both in fiction and scholarly studies. Ms Henderson's idea was to get us closer another woman whose life was closely interwoven with that of the Queen's, Jean Gordon, of one of the most powerful Scottish families, married to the Earl of Bothwell.
Jean Gordon's life was as fascinating as the Queen's and both women were bound by a man who never compromised and was brutal in many ways.
Having read several books on Mary the Queen, I was again captivated by this tragic figure and it was all due to great writing and a lot of insight and information that I seemed to have missed in other books. Jean Gordon was very near the Queen, though not her ally or confidante and she appears as strong-headed and with good survival instincts in the complicated world of Scottish politics in the 16th century.
The book is worth all the time it takes to read it and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in the subject.
A big thank-you to Jennifer Morag Henderson, Sandstone Press, and NetGalley for arc in exchange for my honest review.*
Jean Gordon's life was as fascinating as the Queen's and both women were bound by a man who never compromised and was brutal in many ways.
Having read several books on Mary the Queen, I was again captivated by this tragic figure and it was all due to great writing and a lot of insight and information that I seemed to have missed in other books. Jean Gordon was very near the Queen, though not her ally or confidante and she appears as strong-headed and with good survival instincts in the complicated world of Scottish politics in the 16th century.
The book is worth all the time it takes to read it and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in the subject.
A big thank-you to Jennifer Morag Henderson, Sandstone Press, and NetGalley for arc in exchange for my honest review.*
January 20, 2024
This is a historical biography by Scottish author Jennifer Morag Henderson. Set in the 16th century it focuses on the lives of both Mary Queen of Scots and her one time lady in waiting Jean Gordon.
Jean was the daughter of the powerful northern lord, George Gordon, Earl of Huntly, known as the Cock of the North. Jean married the rather brutal James Hepburn, Earl of Bothwell, who later went on to form a disastrous marriage with Mary Queen of Scots. Jean then became the Countess of Sutherland through her marriage to Alexander Gordon. Finally she married her childhood sweetheart and thwarted romance, Alexander Ogilvie.
Aside from her marriages, Jean was a strong, intelligent and powerful woman in her own right who fought the political tides to maintain the stability and fortunes of her family.
This is a meticulously researched book and a fascinating look into what were turbulent and dangerous times, particularly for anyone close to the throne and its intrigues. Like many things focussed on the north of Scotland there are clan battles and feuds and some pretty wild yarns. Henderson manages the dichotomy between factual information and storytelling seamlessly, in a way that made this much more interesting, palatable reading than many biographies. I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in this era and place.
Jean was the daughter of the powerful northern lord, George Gordon, Earl of Huntly, known as the Cock of the North. Jean married the rather brutal James Hepburn, Earl of Bothwell, who later went on to form a disastrous marriage with Mary Queen of Scots. Jean then became the Countess of Sutherland through her marriage to Alexander Gordon. Finally she married her childhood sweetheart and thwarted romance, Alexander Ogilvie.
Aside from her marriages, Jean was a strong, intelligent and powerful woman in her own right who fought the political tides to maintain the stability and fortunes of her family.
This is a meticulously researched book and a fascinating look into what were turbulent and dangerous times, particularly for anyone close to the throne and its intrigues. Like many things focussed on the north of Scotland there are clan battles and feuds and some pretty wild yarns. Henderson manages the dichotomy between factual information and storytelling seamlessly, in a way that made this much more interesting, palatable reading than many biographies. I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in this era and place.
June 16, 2024
There is no woman more famous (or infamous, depending on whom you ask) with Scottish history than Mary, Queen of Scots. Mary’s life was a torpedo of dramatic events from her birth to her beheading in the hands of Queen Elizabeth I. Look closer, though, and there is a behemoth woman standing (figuratively) slightly behind Mary. This woman didn’t have royal blood cursing through her veins nor did she meet a scandalous end. Yet, she was a central figure in Northern Scotland, was the matriarch of the Gordon branch of the Sutherlands/Huntlys and was the second wife to the Earl of Bothwell (her second husband and Mary’s own third husband). This striking female was Jean Gordon and her intelligence, ambition, perseverance, emotional strength, guile and powerful stature is beyond comprehension for a ‘nobody’ which is because she was very much a somebody despite history only mentioning her in passing as Bothwell’s one-time wife. Jennifer Morag Henderson puts a kibosh to this slight and brings Jean Gordon to center stage with, “Daughters of the North: Jean Gordon and Mary, Queen of Scots”.
Before I even proceed with this review; allow me to give a quick personal disclaimer. This review won’t be as provocative as my usual Goodreads output nor will it do “Daughters of the North” justice in screaming its merits from the rooftops and enticing readership. My words can simply not hold a flame to the groundbreaking, masterpiece that is “Daughters of the North” and I, rarely, have writer’s block. I pushed the completion of this book for weeks on end in order to extend its finality (the book is long in page count, anyway) and additionally pushed the actual penning of this review for that reason of knowing I would fail to conceptualize this work of art. Jennifer Morag Henderson warns readers that even despite her extensive research; she is not a historian but only a writer. Well, that is a blatant lie because she is a better historian (and writer) than some of the most influential contemporary British historians and “Daughters of the North” is one of the top Scottish history books available on the shelves. It is simply marvelous.
“Daughters of the North” follows the life of Jean Gordon from her childhood to her death while interweaving the history of the Southingtons, Huntlys, the clans of the north and of course, Mary, Queen of Scots. Generally speaking, a key weakness of history books attempting to bring a figure out of the shadows is the focus on their family tree, environment, political connections, etc. Often, the figure is lost and isn’t the true focus of the text. This is NOT the case with “Daughters of the North” as every event seems to ultimately ping off Jean Gordon and therefore her own character and impact is constantly revealed even if she isn’t primarily involved. This is also credibly backed by the heavy principal historical source materials composed by none other than Jean’s own son, Robert, who made it his life goal to put the Gordon history on record. “Daughters of the North” provides an insane amount of historical information regarding Jean and the Gordons; so much so that it is jaw-droppingly shocking that Jean hasn’t been the focus of endless texts both fiction and non-fiction.
Despite this convoluted content; Morag Henderson’s writing is clear, concise and easily absorbed even with the mentioning of so many key figures and events. With a gloriously descriptive narrative that pulls readers into the pages making one feel they are living history all while actually absorbing the material; “Daughters of the North” is compelling, riveting and will leave readers salivating - even those with a background in Scottish history. Jean’s impact is comparable to Margaret Beaufort’s holding in England’s own history and Morag Henderson does an exemplary job in showcasing Jean even if I am conversely failing at highlighting the magical essence of “Daughters of the North”.
Morag Henderson sprinkles “Daughters of the North” with occasional personal mentions of her research a la a memoir tone. Thankfully, this isn’t jarring to readers and does not lose a sense of academia but instead helps to fortify meanings, debunk myths and aid in detective sleuth-work that detangles the intricate web of events in the Gordon history. Even if this was unappetizing; Morag Henderson doesn’t utilize this format enough to cause a grievance.
“Daughters of the North” does hit a slight stalemate after the halfway point, where at it seems that events are repetitious and thus, somewhat ‘boring’ even though they are indeed of intrinsic value to the overall text. This is remedied by alternating events that are so dramatic and bold; that they almost read as fictitious carrying the reader forward like a fast-paced novel.
The conclusion of “Daughters of the North” is somewhat anti-climatic in comparison to the text as a whole and Jean deserved more trumpeting fanfare in her death. This doesn’t take away from the staggering quality of “Daughters of the North” but it is indeed noticeable.
Morag Henderson supplements “Daughters of the North” with a section of photo plates, bibliography and annotated notes that are a joy to read even though they are just notes! Missing are genealogical tables of the Gordons/Sutherlands/Huntlys which would have been helpful.
I realize that this review is sort of ‘bland’ but I am shocked at how amazing “Daughters of the North” truly is and therefore I simply can’t find an accurate way to describe it. Bluntly, I’m not worthy! “Daughters of the North” is recommended for ALL readers interested in Scottish/British history, Mary, Queen of Scots and of commanding, female family heads. Jennifer Morag Henderson is at the top of the historian game even if she claims to not hold the title and I truly hope we receive another history piece in the future from her pen.
Before I even proceed with this review; allow me to give a quick personal disclaimer. This review won’t be as provocative as my usual Goodreads output nor will it do “Daughters of the North” justice in screaming its merits from the rooftops and enticing readership. My words can simply not hold a flame to the groundbreaking, masterpiece that is “Daughters of the North” and I, rarely, have writer’s block. I pushed the completion of this book for weeks on end in order to extend its finality (the book is long in page count, anyway) and additionally pushed the actual penning of this review for that reason of knowing I would fail to conceptualize this work of art. Jennifer Morag Henderson warns readers that even despite her extensive research; she is not a historian but only a writer. Well, that is a blatant lie because she is a better historian (and writer) than some of the most influential contemporary British historians and “Daughters of the North” is one of the top Scottish history books available on the shelves. It is simply marvelous.
“Daughters of the North” follows the life of Jean Gordon from her childhood to her death while interweaving the history of the Southingtons, Huntlys, the clans of the north and of course, Mary, Queen of Scots. Generally speaking, a key weakness of history books attempting to bring a figure out of the shadows is the focus on their family tree, environment, political connections, etc. Often, the figure is lost and isn’t the true focus of the text. This is NOT the case with “Daughters of the North” as every event seems to ultimately ping off Jean Gordon and therefore her own character and impact is constantly revealed even if she isn’t primarily involved. This is also credibly backed by the heavy principal historical source materials composed by none other than Jean’s own son, Robert, who made it his life goal to put the Gordon history on record. “Daughters of the North” provides an insane amount of historical information regarding Jean and the Gordons; so much so that it is jaw-droppingly shocking that Jean hasn’t been the focus of endless texts both fiction and non-fiction.
Despite this convoluted content; Morag Henderson’s writing is clear, concise and easily absorbed even with the mentioning of so many key figures and events. With a gloriously descriptive narrative that pulls readers into the pages making one feel they are living history all while actually absorbing the material; “Daughters of the North” is compelling, riveting and will leave readers salivating - even those with a background in Scottish history. Jean’s impact is comparable to Margaret Beaufort’s holding in England’s own history and Morag Henderson does an exemplary job in showcasing Jean even if I am conversely failing at highlighting the magical essence of “Daughters of the North”.
Morag Henderson sprinkles “Daughters of the North” with occasional personal mentions of her research a la a memoir tone. Thankfully, this isn’t jarring to readers and does not lose a sense of academia but instead helps to fortify meanings, debunk myths and aid in detective sleuth-work that detangles the intricate web of events in the Gordon history. Even if this was unappetizing; Morag Henderson doesn’t utilize this format enough to cause a grievance.
“Daughters of the North” does hit a slight stalemate after the halfway point, where at it seems that events are repetitious and thus, somewhat ‘boring’ even though they are indeed of intrinsic value to the overall text. This is remedied by alternating events that are so dramatic and bold; that they almost read as fictitious carrying the reader forward like a fast-paced novel.
The conclusion of “Daughters of the North” is somewhat anti-climatic in comparison to the text as a whole and Jean deserved more trumpeting fanfare in her death. This doesn’t take away from the staggering quality of “Daughters of the North” but it is indeed noticeable.
Morag Henderson supplements “Daughters of the North” with a section of photo plates, bibliography and annotated notes that are a joy to read even though they are just notes! Missing are genealogical tables of the Gordons/Sutherlands/Huntlys which would have been helpful.
I realize that this review is sort of ‘bland’ but I am shocked at how amazing “Daughters of the North” truly is and therefore I simply can’t find an accurate way to describe it. Bluntly, I’m not worthy! “Daughters of the North” is recommended for ALL readers interested in Scottish/British history, Mary, Queen of Scots and of commanding, female family heads. Jennifer Morag Henderson is at the top of the historian game even if she claims to not hold the title and I truly hope we receive another history piece in the future from her pen.
December 26, 2021
Daughters of the North by Jennifer Morag Henderson is a great nonfiction that gives us an in-depth portrait of Jean Gordon, the Earl of Bothwell’s first wife. Just fascinating!
I have read so much about Mary Queen of Scots and her ill-fated marriage to the Earl of Bothwell has always been shrouded in question for me. But the focus of this book is his first wife, who definitely seemed to escape the downward spiral of a hot mess that was to become his future.
I loved learning more about this formidable woman who later became the Countess of Sutherland within her second marriage and then finally being reunited with the love of her life for her third.
But her life isn’t just fascinating because of her marriages. The Gordon family has plenty of power, activity, action, and drama that adds so many facets to the story. Finding out all of the connections between this family and the Regency was impressive.
Jean was a woman of intelligence, passion, loyalty, wit, and made smart personal and professional decisions that helped raise and secure her own family and offspring for generations to come. When so many associated with the throne were imprisoned, exiled, murdered, and fell upon hard times, Jean and her children were able to come out alright.
Through this stunning book, with a beyond impressive amount of research submitted, I was able to learn so much more regarding Scotland in the 16th century.
5/5 stars enthusiastically
Thank you NG and Sandstone Press for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 5/17/22.
I have read so much about Mary Queen of Scots and her ill-fated marriage to the Earl of Bothwell has always been shrouded in question for me. But the focus of this book is his first wife, who definitely seemed to escape the downward spiral of a hot mess that was to become his future.
I loved learning more about this formidable woman who later became the Countess of Sutherland within her second marriage and then finally being reunited with the love of her life for her third.
But her life isn’t just fascinating because of her marriages. The Gordon family has plenty of power, activity, action, and drama that adds so many facets to the story. Finding out all of the connections between this family and the Regency was impressive.
Jean was a woman of intelligence, passion, loyalty, wit, and made smart personal and professional decisions that helped raise and secure her own family and offspring for generations to come. When so many associated with the throne were imprisoned, exiled, murdered, and fell upon hard times, Jean and her children were able to come out alright.
Through this stunning book, with a beyond impressive amount of research submitted, I was able to learn so much more regarding Scotland in the 16th century.
5/5 stars enthusiastically
Thank you NG and Sandstone Press for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 5/17/22.
April 10, 2022
A non-fiction book that gives us a fascinating in-depth portrait of Jean Gordon, the first wife of James Hepburn, Earl of Bothwell.
Often overlooked and consigned to the footnotes of history books, Henderson brings Jean to the forefront and gives her the recognition she deserves.
Drawing on meticulous research, we are given a rich tapestry of Jean story and that of the powerful Gordon family during the unpredictable political climate of 16th century Scotland.
A great read for those who want to know more about this often overlooked Scottish noblewoman.
Many thanks to Sandstone press for sending me an ARC to review.
Often overlooked and consigned to the footnotes of history books, Henderson brings Jean to the forefront and gives her the recognition she deserves.
Drawing on meticulous research, we are given a rich tapestry of Jean story and that of the powerful Gordon family during the unpredictable political climate of 16th century Scotland.
A great read for those who want to know more about this often overlooked Scottish noblewoman.
Many thanks to Sandstone press for sending me an ARC to review.
April 16, 2022
Jean was rather a unique figure - by the later 16th century, women had begun to have agency within the local economy and were able to wield some influence in their own circles. For Jean - the circle was always the family, and those linked by blood or marriage, were drawn and held tightly within. Even in her 70s, Jean was still seen as a person who had the potential to be influential, someone powerful who needed to be controlled, as she had a strong belief in what was due to her family and actively and steadfastly promoted her family interests.
Aged in her 80s when she died, Jean had outlived all her brothers and sisters, all three of her husbands, four of her children, two queens, and one king. As matriarch of the Gordon family, she was the glue that held it all together, and on her passing, it collapsed in a heap around the remaining family members.
Henderson brings her extensive research to the fore in crafting a highly readable narrative around a woman who lived during a tumultuous time in Scottish history. The reader will be amazed and in awe of this incredible woman, who story was deserving of being told in its own right.
Aged in her 80s when she died, Jean had outlived all her brothers and sisters, all three of her husbands, four of her children, two queens, and one king. As matriarch of the Gordon family, she was the glue that held it all together, and on her passing, it collapsed in a heap around the remaining family members.
Henderson brings her extensive research to the fore in crafting a highly readable narrative around a woman who lived during a tumultuous time in Scottish history. The reader will be amazed and in awe of this incredible woman, who story was deserving of being told in its own right.
August 14, 2022
An utterly fascinating and compelling account of a well-known period in history - but through much less well-known eyes: Jean Gordon, the infamous Bothwell's first wife. Jennifer Morag Henderson has a rare gift to render complex material in accessible prose without overwhelming the reader with detail. Her historical research weaves a rich tapestry of the time period, but offers an unusual angle on the life of Mary, Queen of Scots. I thought it was excellent.
April 29, 2022
After reading many novels about the main players who dominate this era, it is refreshing to read about some of the more peripheral figures. Very enjoyable!
July 3, 2023
Repetitive
January 9, 2024
In the late 16th/ early 17th centuries, Scotland was chaotic and full of dynamic characters near or on the throne. People like Mary of Guise, Mary Queen of Scots, Lord Darnley, Earl of Bothwell, the four Maries, and James VI/I show how turbulent the Scottish court was to those around it. However, the stories of those who lived outside the court system and tried their best to maintain control of the country for their monarch tend to fade into obscurity. Take for example the story of Jean Gordon. A noblewoman who was married three times; to James Hepburn, Earl of Bothwell, Alexander Gordon, Earl of Sutherland, and her true love, Alex Ogilive. Jean’s story is full of heartaches, clashing clans, religious squabbles, and loyalty to one’s family, which is told in Jennifer Morag Henderson’s book, “Daughters of the North: Jean Gordon and Mary, Queen of Scots.”
I would like to thank Sandstone Press and Casemate for sending me a copy of this book. When it comes to 16th-century history, I mostly focus on England, but I wanted to branch out to other countries and learn more about European history as a whole. When I saw the title of this book, it immediately caught my attention because I wanted to learn more about Scottish history and I did not know anything about Jean Gordon.
Jean Gordon, born in 1545, was the daughter of one of the most powerful men in Northern Scotland (known as King of the North), George Gordon 4th Earl of Huntly, and his wife Elizabeth Keith. When she was a child, Jean fell in love with a man named Alex Ogilive, but it was never meant to be as her family fortune changed when the Huntlys decided to clash with Mary, Queen of Scots’ illegitimate brother Lord James Stewart, 1st Earl of Moray. This clash ended with the death of George Gordon (with his corpse being put on trial) and the execution of Jean’s brother John Gordon. The family fell out of favor with the young Mary, Queen of Scots, but they would soon rise again.
Mary, Queen of Scots ended up marrying Lord Darnley and having the future King James VI/I of Scotland and England, while in 1566, Jean married James Hepburn, Earl of Bothwell. Jean and James were not married for long because in 1567 after it was found that Lord Darnley was murdered, Bothwell decided to dump Jean and marry Mary, Queen of Scots; we all know how that one turned out. Bothwell was such a jerk, but Jean did not mind as she did not care for Bothwell at all.
Jean would marry for a second time to Alexander Gordon, 12th Earl of Sutherland. They would have between seven and eight children. Although it was an arranged marriage, there was love between Jean and Alexander as they worked hard to maintain order in the North while clans were clashing over small issues (like cutting horsetails) and religious rows. After Alexander died, Jean decided to take a chance and marry her true love Alex Ogilive after over 30 years of waiting. Jean would outlive her husbands, her siblings, some of her children, and several monarchs, dying in 1629.
As someone who did not know much about Jean Gordon’s story or 16th/17th-century Scottish history, I adored this book. Henderson has made this complex history accessible to readers, both novices and experts alike. Now I want to explore more Scottish history, maybe even medieval Scottish history. If you want a fresh look into the wider world of the 16th century full of romance and drama, I highly recommend you read, “Daughters of the North: Jean Gordon and Mary, Queen of Scots” by Jennifer Morag Henderson.
I would like to thank Sandstone Press and Casemate for sending me a copy of this book. When it comes to 16th-century history, I mostly focus on England, but I wanted to branch out to other countries and learn more about European history as a whole. When I saw the title of this book, it immediately caught my attention because I wanted to learn more about Scottish history and I did not know anything about Jean Gordon.
Jean Gordon, born in 1545, was the daughter of one of the most powerful men in Northern Scotland (known as King of the North), George Gordon 4th Earl of Huntly, and his wife Elizabeth Keith. When she was a child, Jean fell in love with a man named Alex Ogilive, but it was never meant to be as her family fortune changed when the Huntlys decided to clash with Mary, Queen of Scots’ illegitimate brother Lord James Stewart, 1st Earl of Moray. This clash ended with the death of George Gordon (with his corpse being put on trial) and the execution of Jean’s brother John Gordon. The family fell out of favor with the young Mary, Queen of Scots, but they would soon rise again.
Mary, Queen of Scots ended up marrying Lord Darnley and having the future King James VI/I of Scotland and England, while in 1566, Jean married James Hepburn, Earl of Bothwell. Jean and James were not married for long because in 1567 after it was found that Lord Darnley was murdered, Bothwell decided to dump Jean and marry Mary, Queen of Scots; we all know how that one turned out. Bothwell was such a jerk, but Jean did not mind as she did not care for Bothwell at all.
Jean would marry for a second time to Alexander Gordon, 12th Earl of Sutherland. They would have between seven and eight children. Although it was an arranged marriage, there was love between Jean and Alexander as they worked hard to maintain order in the North while clans were clashing over small issues (like cutting horsetails) and religious rows. After Alexander died, Jean decided to take a chance and marry her true love Alex Ogilive after over 30 years of waiting. Jean would outlive her husbands, her siblings, some of her children, and several monarchs, dying in 1629.
As someone who did not know much about Jean Gordon’s story or 16th/17th-century Scottish history, I adored this book. Henderson has made this complex history accessible to readers, both novices and experts alike. Now I want to explore more Scottish history, maybe even medieval Scottish history. If you want a fresh look into the wider world of the 16th century full of romance and drama, I highly recommend you read, “Daughters of the North: Jean Gordon and Mary, Queen of Scots” by Jennifer Morag Henderson.
April 6, 2024
I rate this 3.5 out of 5
I purchased this book from Audible.
Brief Summary: Jean Gordon was the daughter of a powerful northern Scottish clan in the early modern period. Not only was she a contemporary of Mary, Queen of Scots, but they shared an infamous husband: James Hepburn, Lord Bothwell. Hendersen examines the life of Jean and her powerful family and how they navigated the turbulence of the Marian reign.
Thoughts: I forget where I originally heard about this book. It was on Instagram and may have been Charlie Fenton @charliefen, Georgi @georgi_Ivs_books, or Natalie Grueninger @talkingtudors; @themosthappy78.
I was intrigued by this book before picking it up because I am trying to read a bit more about the women who surrounded the Queens at court. I was also intrigued because Jean is often a footnote if she is mentioned at all in the story of Bothwell and Mary.
I liked how this book did tell the life of Jean from birth until her death. I think that Hendersen did a good job of focusing on her story throughout the book. However, I do feel that this book was more of a biography of the whole Gordon clan, rather than Jean just herself. Which was still a fascinating read as they were important power players in the courts of Mary, Queen of Scots and James VI. It did mean that sometimes Jean's story did fade into the background a bit.
The most interesting part of the story for me was when Jean was at court waiting on Mary. The interactions between the two of them were quite interesting. My second favourite part of the book was the discussion of Jean's marriage to Bothwell. I never realized quite how short it was or how much she had to fight to maintain her dignity and status about the dissolution of her marriage.
Overall, this was a very interesting read. If you dive in, expect to learn more about the Gordons, Northern Scottish clans, and the tumultuous Marian court. Jean makes appearances, but she is not the central focus of this book alone.
Content Warnings
Graphically described: Toxic relationship, War, Murder, Miscarriage, Violence, Medical trauma, Misogyny, Forced institutionalization, Confinement, Infidelity, Injury/Injury detail, Pandemic/Epidemic, Pregnancy, Sexism, Terminal illness, Xenophobia, Classism, Child Death, Death, Death of a parent, Emotional abuse, Kidnapping, Grief, and Infertility
Moderately described on page: Rape
I purchased this book from Audible.
Brief Summary: Jean Gordon was the daughter of a powerful northern Scottish clan in the early modern period. Not only was she a contemporary of Mary, Queen of Scots, but they shared an infamous husband: James Hepburn, Lord Bothwell. Hendersen examines the life of Jean and her powerful family and how they navigated the turbulence of the Marian reign.
Thoughts: I forget where I originally heard about this book. It was on Instagram and may have been Charlie Fenton @charliefen, Georgi @georgi_Ivs_books, or Natalie Grueninger @talkingtudors; @themosthappy78.
I was intrigued by this book before picking it up because I am trying to read a bit more about the women who surrounded the Queens at court. I was also intrigued because Jean is often a footnote if she is mentioned at all in the story of Bothwell and Mary.
I liked how this book did tell the life of Jean from birth until her death. I think that Hendersen did a good job of focusing on her story throughout the book. However, I do feel that this book was more of a biography of the whole Gordon clan, rather than Jean just herself. Which was still a fascinating read as they were important power players in the courts of Mary, Queen of Scots and James VI. It did mean that sometimes Jean's story did fade into the background a bit.
The most interesting part of the story for me was when Jean was at court waiting on Mary. The interactions between the two of them were quite interesting. My second favourite part of the book was the discussion of Jean's marriage to Bothwell. I never realized quite how short it was or how much she had to fight to maintain her dignity and status about the dissolution of her marriage.
Overall, this was a very interesting read. If you dive in, expect to learn more about the Gordons, Northern Scottish clans, and the tumultuous Marian court. Jean makes appearances, but she is not the central focus of this book alone.
Content Warnings
Graphically described: Toxic relationship, War, Murder, Miscarriage, Violence, Medical trauma, Misogyny, Forced institutionalization, Confinement, Infidelity, Injury/Injury detail, Pandemic/Epidemic, Pregnancy, Sexism, Terminal illness, Xenophobia, Classism, Child Death, Death, Death of a parent, Emotional abuse, Kidnapping, Grief, and Infertility
Moderately described on page: Rape
September 3, 2022
A different view of Scottish history. This book is about the life of Jean Gordon, a contemporary of Mary, Queen of Scots, who live into the reign of Charles I.
In her early years her life was intertwined with Mary’s. Jean’s father died after rebelling against Mary and one of her older brothers executed for treason. Jean herself married the Earl of Bothwell, but was later divorced so he could marry the Queen. Despite these acrimonious beginnings, Jean’s family became great supporters to Mary during her reign and imprisonment. This seems less improbable as you make your way through the book which has allegiances changing on every page, sometimes from one sentence to another.
It was a tumultuous time with feuds between families quickly degenerating into all out warfare. But despite this martial background, women of high born families had an importance of their own. Firstly, their marriages could forge long lasting ties between families. And with men often away from their estates it was the women who managed them, and Jean was particularly adept in both areas. This book is less about Jean as a woman, although some personal letters give a glimpse into her feelings, and more about her pivotal role in her family.
It is fascinating to read a history of this time where Mary and her son James VI are not the centre of attention but important figures amongst other notables of the time. It is sometimes a confusing read because of the plethora of similar names and titles - I was very relieved Jean was not called Marie! But it was an engrossing look at how the actions of this time not only impacted the wider stage of England and Europe, but how it laid the foundation of future Scottish history.
In her early years her life was intertwined with Mary’s. Jean’s father died after rebelling against Mary and one of her older brothers executed for treason. Jean herself married the Earl of Bothwell, but was later divorced so he could marry the Queen. Despite these acrimonious beginnings, Jean’s family became great supporters to Mary during her reign and imprisonment. This seems less improbable as you make your way through the book which has allegiances changing on every page, sometimes from one sentence to another.
It was a tumultuous time with feuds between families quickly degenerating into all out warfare. But despite this martial background, women of high born families had an importance of their own. Firstly, their marriages could forge long lasting ties between families. And with men often away from their estates it was the women who managed them, and Jean was particularly adept in both areas. This book is less about Jean as a woman, although some personal letters give a glimpse into her feelings, and more about her pivotal role in her family.
It is fascinating to read a history of this time where Mary and her son James VI are not the centre of attention but important figures amongst other notables of the time. It is sometimes a confusing read because of the plethora of similar names and titles - I was very relieved Jean was not called Marie! But it was an engrossing look at how the actions of this time not only impacted the wider stage of England and Europe, but how it laid the foundation of future Scottish history.
January 25, 2025
Daughters of the North by Jennifer Morag Henderson is a great nonfiction that gives us an in-depth portrait of Jean Gordon, the Earl of Bothwell’s first wife. Just fascinating!
I have read so much about Mary Queen of Scots and her ill-fated marriage to the Earl of Bothwell has always been shrouded in question for me. But the focus of this book is his first wife, who definitely seemed to escape the downward spiral of a hot mess that was to become his future.
I loved learning more about this formidable woman who later became the Countess of Sutherland within her second marriage and then finally being reunited with the love of her life for her third.
But her life isn’t just fascinating because of her marriages. The Gordon family has plenty of power, activity, action, and drama that adds so many facets to the story. Finding out all of the connections between this family and the Regency was impressive.
Jean was a woman of intelligence, passion, loyalty, wit, and made smart personal and professional decisions that helped raise and secure her own family and offspring for generations to come. When so many associated with the throne were imprisoned, exiled, murdered, and fell upon hard times, Jean and her children were able to come out alright.
Through this stunning book, with a beyond impressive amount of research submitted, I was able to learn so much more regarding Scotland in the 16th century.
5/5 stars enthusiastically
I have read so much about Mary Queen of Scots and her ill-fated marriage to the Earl of Bothwell has always been shrouded in question for me. But the focus of this book is his first wife, who definitely seemed to escape the downward spiral of a hot mess that was to become his future.
I loved learning more about this formidable woman who later became the Countess of Sutherland within her second marriage and then finally being reunited with the love of her life for her third.
But her life isn’t just fascinating because of her marriages. The Gordon family has plenty of power, activity, action, and drama that adds so many facets to the story. Finding out all of the connections between this family and the Regency was impressive.
Jean was a woman of intelligence, passion, loyalty, wit, and made smart personal and professional decisions that helped raise and secure her own family and offspring for generations to come. When so many associated with the throne were imprisoned, exiled, murdered, and fell upon hard times, Jean and her children were able to come out alright.
Through this stunning book, with a beyond impressive amount of research submitted, I was able to learn so much more regarding Scotland in the 16th century.
5/5 stars enthusiastically
April 20, 2026
What a pleasure to read such a well-researched book on the sixteenth century written from the often neglected perspective of the north of Scotland.
Jennifer Morag Henderson has written a scholarly but accessible work, focused on the life of Jean Gordon, Countess of Sutherland, first wife of Mary Queen of Scots' first husband, Lord Bothwell.
There are many aspects that make this book so fascinating: the focus on the Gordon family over time, the author's own knowledge of the north and its sources, the complexities of the relationships between Scotland's Earls and the northern clans, the connections with the Scottish Court (both of MQS and her son, James VI) and the evidence of Jean's own formidable character.
Highly recommend to all with an interest in the period.
Jennifer Morag Henderson has written a scholarly but accessible work, focused on the life of Jean Gordon, Countess of Sutherland, first wife of Mary Queen of Scots' first husband, Lord Bothwell.
There are many aspects that make this book so fascinating: the focus on the Gordon family over time, the author's own knowledge of the north and its sources, the complexities of the relationships between Scotland's Earls and the northern clans, the connections with the Scottish Court (both of MQS and her son, James VI) and the evidence of Jean's own formidable character.
Highly recommend to all with an interest in the period.
April 2, 2024
A wonderful picture of 16th century Scotland. Jean Gordon, confidant of Mary Queen of Scots, wife of Bothwell and then Duchess of Sutherland, acts as a link to the changing face of northern Scotland from clans to nobility at the court of King James 1 of England and James VI of Scotland. It paves the way for the tragedy of the clearances and the continuing emotional and practical links with the continent. I really enjoyed this amazing huge piece of research.
July 10, 2024
Interesting and exploring, this book really helps paint the time and the impact of these women.
July 23, 2025
centuries old gossip is the best kind imo
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