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Scourge of Henry VIII: The Life of Marie de Guise
Exploring Maries relationship with her own family, the Lorraines, putting her influence on Scottish Renaissance art and architecture into historic context.
Although Mary, Queen of Scots continues to fascinate both historians and the general public alike, the story of her mother, Marie de Guise, is much less well known. A political power in her own right, she was born into the powerful and ambitious Lorraine family, spending her formative years at the dazzling and licentious court of Franois I. Although briefly courted by Henry VIII, she instead married his nephew, James V of Scotland, in 1538.
James' premature death four years later left their six day old daughter, Mary, as Queen and presented Marie with the formidable challenge of winning the support of the Scottish people and protecting her daughters threatened birthright. Content until now to remain in the background and play the part of the obedient wife, Marie spent the next eighteen years effectively governing Scotland, devoting her considerable intellect, courage and energy to safeguarding her daughters inheritance by using a deft mixture of cunning, charm, determination and tolerance.
The last serious biography of Marie de Guise was published in 1977 and whereas plenty of attention has been paid to the mistakes of her daughter's eventful but brief reign, the time has come for a fresh assessment of this most fascinating and under appreciated of sixteenth century female rulers.
Although Mary, Queen of Scots continues to fascinate both historians and the general public alike, the story of her mother, Marie de Guise, is much less well known. A political power in her own right, she was born into the powerful and ambitious Lorraine family, spending her formative years at the dazzling and licentious court of Franois I. Although briefly courted by Henry VIII, she instead married his nephew, James V of Scotland, in 1538.
James' premature death four years later left their six day old daughter, Mary, as Queen and presented Marie with the formidable challenge of winning the support of the Scottish people and protecting her daughters threatened birthright. Content until now to remain in the background and play the part of the obedient wife, Marie spent the next eighteen years effectively governing Scotland, devoting her considerable intellect, courage and energy to safeguarding her daughters inheritance by using a deft mixture of cunning, charm, determination and tolerance.
The last serious biography of Marie de Guise was published in 1977 and whereas plenty of attention has been paid to the mistakes of her daughter's eventful but brief reign, the time has come for a fresh assessment of this most fascinating and under appreciated of sixteenth century female rulers.
224 pages, Paperback
First published September 28, 2016
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966 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Clegg
14 books310 followersInternational woman of history, biographer, posh doomer, chaotic good, anxious, ENFP, flame haired Robespierre, Scottish, a sweet titbit for the Devil's mouth.
To date, my published books include biographies of Marie de Guise, Henrietta Anne of England, Margaret Tudor and Empress Alexandra of Russia, all of which were published by Pen and Sword Books.
My next book, a biography of Madame Élisabeth, sister of Louis XVI, is due to be published by Pen and Sword Books in the summer of 2023.
After this, I am contracted to write about women guillotined during the French Revolution, Louis Antoine de Saint-Just, Marie Antoinette, Madame Royale, Louis XVI and the daughters of Louis XIV.
To date, my published books include biographies of Marie de Guise, Henrietta Anne of England, Margaret Tudor and Empress Alexandra of Russia, all of which were published by Pen and Sword Books.
My next book, a biography of Madame Élisabeth, sister of Louis XVI, is due to be published by Pen and Sword Books in the summer of 2023.
After this, I am contracted to write about women guillotined during the French Revolution, Louis Antoine de Saint-Just, Marie Antoinette, Madame Royale, Louis XVI and the daughters of Louis XIV.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
March 7, 2024
Before reading this compassionate biography, I admit to knowing very little about Marie de Guise, other than she was Mary, Queen of Scots' mother.
Marie was a tall, lovely, by-all-acounts personable young woman, highly desirable as a marriage prospect as a member of the becoming-powerful Guise family of Lorraine. She was married to the Duc de Longueville, a member of one of the French royal families, and apparently had a happy marriage, which produced two sons. When her husband died, she capably managed his extensive estates for her eldest son. As a widow who had borne two sons, she was highly desirable as a martial prospect again, drawing the attention of especially England's Henry VIII, who was casting about for yet another wife when Jane Seymour died after giving birth to his only legitimate son. Marie was instead married to James V of Scotland, a complicated, moody man who became King as a toddler. They had two sons together, but then James lost the battle of Pinkie Moss, which exacerbated his depression, so he ... died! This left Marie w/ a six-day-old baby girl to raise and protect as the new Queen of Scotland, in an era when it was unthinkable that a woman could actually rule a country. Marie apparently squared her shoulders, gave up on love, and got on w/ the task of devoting herself to improving Scotland. Marie was alone in wanting this apparently, and endlessly fought w/ the men acting as Regents, until Marie herself became Regent. Marie had to foil Henry VIII's "rough wooing" of her baby daughter; Henry badly wanted Mary in England to be raised as his son, Edward's, future wife. Marie did not want Scotland to become part of England, so she said good-bye to yet another of her children and sent Mary to be raised in France as the future wife of the dauphin. Marie sacrificed her heart and her health to the cause of Scotland, and ended up dead in her forties for the effort, only reunited once w/ Mary in the intervening years.
As a member of the "Bereaved Mothers' Club" myself, my heart goes out to Marie for losing all four of her sons, the two Scottish ones within one hour of each other! Marie is portrayed in this biography as a totally good person, dedicated to the cause of her adopted country. 4+ stars rounded down to 4.
Marie was a tall, lovely, by-all-acounts personable young woman, highly desirable as a marriage prospect as a member of the becoming-powerful Guise family of Lorraine. She was married to the Duc de Longueville, a member of one of the French royal families, and apparently had a happy marriage, which produced two sons. When her husband died, she capably managed his extensive estates for her eldest son. As a widow who had borne two sons, she was highly desirable as a martial prospect again, drawing the attention of especially England's Henry VIII, who was casting about for yet another wife when Jane Seymour died after giving birth to his only legitimate son. Marie was instead married to James V of Scotland, a complicated, moody man who became King as a toddler. They had two sons together, but then James lost the battle of Pinkie Moss, which exacerbated his depression, so he ... died! This left Marie w/ a six-day-old baby girl to raise and protect as the new Queen of Scotland, in an era when it was unthinkable that a woman could actually rule a country. Marie apparently squared her shoulders, gave up on love, and got on w/ the task of devoting herself to improving Scotland. Marie was alone in wanting this apparently, and endlessly fought w/ the men acting as Regents, until Marie herself became Regent. Marie had to foil Henry VIII's "rough wooing" of her baby daughter; Henry badly wanted Mary in England to be raised as his son, Edward's, future wife. Marie did not want Scotland to become part of England, so she said good-bye to yet another of her children and sent Mary to be raised in France as the future wife of the dauphin. Marie sacrificed her heart and her health to the cause of Scotland, and ended up dead in her forties for the effort, only reunited once w/ Mary in the intervening years.
As a member of the "Bereaved Mothers' Club" myself, my heart goes out to Marie for losing all four of her sons, the two Scottish ones within one hour of each other! Marie is portrayed in this biography as a totally good person, dedicated to the cause of her adopted country. 4+ stars rounded down to 4.
September 11, 2017
Marie de Guise was mother and regent of Mary. Queen of Scots. Even though she ruled Scotland effectively, her accomplishments have largely been overshadowed by Mary, Queen of Scots failures. In the first biography of Marie de Guise in over thirty years, Scourge of Henry VIII brings Marie de Guise’s story to light. Marie is portrayed as a woman of keen intellect, charm, hard-working, and energetic as she continually fought to secure Mary’s inheritance.
Marie de Guise was from the powerful de Guise clan. When she was eighteen, she married the Duc de Longueville. She gave birth to Francois d'Orleans. The marriage was happy, but short-lived. Louis fell ill and died, leaving Marie de Guise a widow at the age of 21.
Marie de Guise was happy enough to remain single. Unfortunately, she had two royal kings seeking her hand in marriage, James V and Henry VIII. According to this biography, Marie de Guise was inclined to marry Henry VIII. However, she left the decision to King Francis of France. King Francis wanted to keep up the alliance between Scotland and France and agreed to let James V have Marie.
Marie married James V through a proxy marriage and sailed for France. Her marriage to James was short-lived. She had five children, but only Mary, Queen of Scots survived. Defeated by the English at the Battle of Solway Moss, James fell ill and died leaving his daughter Mary queen at 6 days old.
The regency of Mary, Queen of Scots fell to the Earl of Arran instead of Marie. It would take twelve years for her to be Regent, in which she ruled for eight years. She struggled with the rise of Protestantism, her conflict with England, and keeping her daughter’s inheritance secured. Thus, Marie De Guise’s struggle for power was long, but she continued to hold power till her death.
Overall, this biography showed Marie de Guise to be a capable and politically-adept ruler. Scourge of Henry VIII is a comprehensive and light read for the general reader. There were a few historical errors, and I thought that there should be a more appropriate title for this biography. Nevertheless, it sheds light on Marie de Guise’s accomplishments. Marie de Guise learned from her mother-in-law Margaret Tudor’s failures. While Margaret’s marriages made her lose her authority as regent, Marie de Guise did not remarry so that she could still keep her authority. Mrs. Clegg compares her to Elizabeth because the two made sacrifices for their realm. Thus, Marie de Guise was a better ruler than her daughter, who has largely eclipsed her in fame. Hopefully, Marie de Guise’s story will be more known and she will be given the attention and credit of a capable ruler as she deserves.
Marie de Guise was from the powerful de Guise clan. When she was eighteen, she married the Duc de Longueville. She gave birth to Francois d'Orleans. The marriage was happy, but short-lived. Louis fell ill and died, leaving Marie de Guise a widow at the age of 21.
Marie de Guise was happy enough to remain single. Unfortunately, she had two royal kings seeking her hand in marriage, James V and Henry VIII. According to this biography, Marie de Guise was inclined to marry Henry VIII. However, she left the decision to King Francis of France. King Francis wanted to keep up the alliance between Scotland and France and agreed to let James V have Marie.
Marie married James V through a proxy marriage and sailed for France. Her marriage to James was short-lived. She had five children, but only Mary, Queen of Scots survived. Defeated by the English at the Battle of Solway Moss, James fell ill and died leaving his daughter Mary queen at 6 days old.
The regency of Mary, Queen of Scots fell to the Earl of Arran instead of Marie. It would take twelve years for her to be Regent, in which she ruled for eight years. She struggled with the rise of Protestantism, her conflict with England, and keeping her daughter’s inheritance secured. Thus, Marie De Guise’s struggle for power was long, but she continued to hold power till her death.
Overall, this biography showed Marie de Guise to be a capable and politically-adept ruler. Scourge of Henry VIII is a comprehensive and light read for the general reader. There were a few historical errors, and I thought that there should be a more appropriate title for this biography. Nevertheless, it sheds light on Marie de Guise’s accomplishments. Marie de Guise learned from her mother-in-law Margaret Tudor’s failures. While Margaret’s marriages made her lose her authority as regent, Marie de Guise did not remarry so that she could still keep her authority. Mrs. Clegg compares her to Elizabeth because the two made sacrifices for their realm. Thus, Marie de Guise was a better ruler than her daughter, who has largely eclipsed her in fame. Hopefully, Marie de Guise’s story will be more known and she will be given the attention and credit of a capable ruler as she deserves.
February 4, 2017
Though compelling, the title doesn't suit; much of this brief account addresses Marie's life before she left France and not her interactions with the Tudors. There are also a few proofreading details that bothered me. However, the narrative flows well and seeing a somewhat softer side of the martial and commandeering Guise family was refreshing.
March 31, 2021
Considering I already have over half of the reference sources, this was nothing new for me. As an introduction to Marie de Guise, it is suitable.
Like many others, I had an issue with the title - one expected to see Marie and Henry duke it out but alas, alack,and anon ...... twould have been better titled "A Life of Marie de Guise".
Like many others, I had an issue with the title - one expected to see Marie and Henry duke it out but alas, alack,and anon ...... twould have been better titled "A Life of Marie de Guise".
June 22, 2021
Most historical biographies tend to be on the dry side. I was pleased and entertained to discover that this one was not.
It was also interesting to "grow" with the Guise family - by the time Mary, Queen of Scotland, was of age, her Guise uncles were very powerful, but back when her mother Marie married James V they had not yet achieved that. And then there was much to-do over her marrying James, rather than Henry VIII, and the grudge that led him to carry against her and his nephew.
Marie de Guise seems to have been a wise, kind, and lovely woman, as well as learning to become skilled in playing politics, unusual for women at that time. she also suffered the tragedy of losing four sons before her own death in her 40's. This work made me want to meet her - and grateful to not BE her.
It was also interesting to "grow" with the Guise family - by the time Mary, Queen of Scotland, was of age, her Guise uncles were very powerful, but back when her mother Marie married James V they had not yet achieved that. And then there was much to-do over her marrying James, rather than Henry VIII, and the grudge that led him to carry against her and his nephew.
Marie de Guise seems to have been a wise, kind, and lovely woman, as well as learning to become skilled in playing politics, unusual for women at that time. she also suffered the tragedy of losing four sons before her own death in her 40's. This work made me want to meet her - and grateful to not BE her.
May 24, 2020
This books is a mess in so many ways: (1) the title is inapt; Henry VIII is here and is a royal PITA all the way through, but Marie as scourge? Not illumined here: Henry might have thought of her as a thwarted potential wife or nuisance perhaps, but scourge? She’s just not that big. Or at least not in this (her very own) book. (2) The book is riddled with typos and missing words. (3) So, after learning what little the author chose to share, before I knew it, Marie was dead and the book was over. It felt that rushed to me. Two consolations: There’s not much out there about Marie de Guise, so this helps with that; and the book is mercifully brief; at least she didn’t belabor the thing. 2 stars. #books #books2020 #bookstagram #reading #readersofinstagram
April 8, 2021
A very interesting and informative overdue biography of Queen Marie De Guise the almost forgotten figure of Scottish history.
At times I felt a little bit bogged down but could tell the book was very well researched and detailed,
I certainly put it down feeling more knowledge had been gained.
I will lookout for future books by this author.
A book to recommend for fans of this genre.
At times I felt a little bit bogged down but could tell the book was very well researched and detailed,
I certainly put it down feeling more knowledge had been gained.
I will lookout for future books by this author.
A book to recommend for fans of this genre.
October 4, 2020
This was incredibly readable, engrossing and interesting.
It's written in an overly familiar tone which makes me feel like this is more supposition than fact, not based on incorrect factual info included.
I think this may appeal more to folks who like that tone.
Otherwise I'd have given this a higher rating because it's very well done.
It's written in an overly familiar tone which makes me feel like this is more supposition than fact, not based on incorrect factual info included.
I think this may appeal more to folks who like that tone.
Otherwise I'd have given this a higher rating because it's very well done.
September 12, 2019
The study of the Tudors tends to focus on England as a country of focus, however the Tudors did affect other countries like Spain, France, and Scotland. Many know the story of Mary, Queen of Scots and her relationship with Elizabeth I, but many do not know the tale of her mother, Marie de Guise. Her tale is one of love for her family and her adoptive country of Scotland. It is of loyalty and strength to do what she believed was right. She was a sister, a daughter, a mother, a queen, and a regent of Scotland. Marie’s story tends to be overshadowed by her daughter’s tragic tale, until now. Her story is the main focus of Melanie Clegg’s latest biography, “Scourge of Henry VIII: The Life of Marie de Guise”.
I would like to thank Pen and Sword Books for sending me a copy of this pleasant biography. I knew quite a bit about her daughter, but Marie de Guise is just as remarkable and deserves to be told.
Clegg begins her biography in the most unusual way, but starting with the death of King James V, Marie de Guise’s second husband. This event, as Clegg will show, radically alters the path that Marie will take. Of course, Marie’s life took many turns, even from her early years. Marie de Guise was the eldest daughter of Claude de Lorraine, Duc de Guise and Antoinette de Bourbon, Duchesse de Guise. Her family, the Lorraines, were extremely close and very loyal to King Francois I of France, especially her father Claude de Lorraine, Duc de Guise. Clegg explores Marie’s formative years, both with her paternal grandmother Philippa de Geulders, Dowager Duchesse de Lorraine, and inside the glamorous court of Francois I, and how both experiences shaped Marie into the remarkable woman she would become.
It was truly a twist of fate that Marie de Guise would marry King James V of Scotland, who was her second husband. Marie was first married to Louis d’Orleans, Duc de Longueville and King James V was married to Princess Madeleine. However, both Louis and Madeleine died rather young, so Marie and James V both had to look for new spouses. James V wanted a French marriage, but he was not the only monarch who was looking for a bride. His uncle King Henry VIII just lost his third wife to illness and was trying to woo Marie. To say things did not go Henry’s way would be an understatement as Marie became Queen of Scotland.
It was in Scotland where we see Marie’s true colors come out in full force. Clegg shows that although Marie loved James, things were not smooth sailing as they would have hoped. Marie’s daughter Mary Stewart, later Mary Queen of Scots, was born only a few days before her father’s untimely death shortly after the Battle of Solway Moss in 1542. Such a triumph turned tragedy would have been agonizing for anyone to deal with, but Marie de Guise knew that she had to stay strong for her daughter. As Regent of Scotland, until Mary came of age, Marie did battle, both physical and spiritual, with every Tudor monarch, from Henry VIII to Elizabeth I.
This book was a joy to read. Melanie Clegg was able to make a biography read like a novel, yet stay informative and academic. I did not know what to expect, since this was the first book by Melanie Clegg that I have ever read, but from page one I was hooked. This was the first biography about Marie de Guise that I have ever read and now I want to read more about her. If you would like to read an engaging biography about Mary, Queen of Scots vivacious mother Marie de Guise, I highly recommend you read, “Scourge of Henry VIII: The Life of Marie de Guise” by Melanie Clegg.
I would like to thank Pen and Sword Books for sending me a copy of this pleasant biography. I knew quite a bit about her daughter, but Marie de Guise is just as remarkable and deserves to be told.
Clegg begins her biography in the most unusual way, but starting with the death of King James V, Marie de Guise’s second husband. This event, as Clegg will show, radically alters the path that Marie will take. Of course, Marie’s life took many turns, even from her early years. Marie de Guise was the eldest daughter of Claude de Lorraine, Duc de Guise and Antoinette de Bourbon, Duchesse de Guise. Her family, the Lorraines, were extremely close and very loyal to King Francois I of France, especially her father Claude de Lorraine, Duc de Guise. Clegg explores Marie’s formative years, both with her paternal grandmother Philippa de Geulders, Dowager Duchesse de Lorraine, and inside the glamorous court of Francois I, and how both experiences shaped Marie into the remarkable woman she would become.
It was truly a twist of fate that Marie de Guise would marry King James V of Scotland, who was her second husband. Marie was first married to Louis d’Orleans, Duc de Longueville and King James V was married to Princess Madeleine. However, both Louis and Madeleine died rather young, so Marie and James V both had to look for new spouses. James V wanted a French marriage, but he was not the only monarch who was looking for a bride. His uncle King Henry VIII just lost his third wife to illness and was trying to woo Marie. To say things did not go Henry’s way would be an understatement as Marie became Queen of Scotland.
It was in Scotland where we see Marie’s true colors come out in full force. Clegg shows that although Marie loved James, things were not smooth sailing as they would have hoped. Marie’s daughter Mary Stewart, later Mary Queen of Scots, was born only a few days before her father’s untimely death shortly after the Battle of Solway Moss in 1542. Such a triumph turned tragedy would have been agonizing for anyone to deal with, but Marie de Guise knew that she had to stay strong for her daughter. As Regent of Scotland, until Mary came of age, Marie did battle, both physical and spiritual, with every Tudor monarch, from Henry VIII to Elizabeth I.
This book was a joy to read. Melanie Clegg was able to make a biography read like a novel, yet stay informative and academic. I did not know what to expect, since this was the first book by Melanie Clegg that I have ever read, but from page one I was hooked. This was the first biography about Marie de Guise that I have ever read and now I want to read more about her. If you would like to read an engaging biography about Mary, Queen of Scots vivacious mother Marie de Guise, I highly recommend you read, “Scourge of Henry VIII: The Life of Marie de Guise” by Melanie Clegg.
April 12, 2021
*3.25
Arc received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I feel like the title of this biography is very misleading, as Henry VIII only featured heavily for like 2 chapters in this book and most of his interaction was with Marie's husband and the other Scottish lords. I get that Marie definitely interfered in the politics between marrying her daughter to his son but aside from that I think the title is very much an exaggeration of the roles they had in each other's life.
The most interesting bits here for me was Marie's life prior to marrying the King of Scots. I think there was more information from there compared to the latter parts that you couldn't find online/through other sources and I really enjoyed learning more about Marie's dynamics with her family as well as the overall role of the Guises in the French court.
I liked the flowing narrative and it was very much like the author was just having a conversation with you and the writing wasn't very heavy or wordy.
Arc received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I feel like the title of this biography is very misleading, as Henry VIII only featured heavily for like 2 chapters in this book and most of his interaction was with Marie's husband and the other Scottish lords. I get that Marie definitely interfered in the politics between marrying her daughter to his son but aside from that I think the title is very much an exaggeration of the roles they had in each other's life.
The most interesting bits here for me was Marie's life prior to marrying the King of Scots. I think there was more information from there compared to the latter parts that you couldn't find online/through other sources and I really enjoyed learning more about Marie's dynamics with her family as well as the overall role of the Guises in the French court.
I liked the flowing narrative and it was very much like the author was just having a conversation with you and the writing wasn't very heavy or wordy.
July 15, 2021
Although Mary, Queen of Scots continues to fascinate both historians and the general public alike, the story of her mother, Marie de Guise, is much less well known. A political power in her own right, she was born into the powerful and ambitious Lorraine family, spending her formative years at the dazzling and licentious court of Francois I. Although briefly courted by Henry VIII, she instead married his nephew, James V of Scotland, in 1538.
James' premature death four years later left their six day old daughter, Mary, as Queen and presented Marie with the formidable challenge of winning the support of the Scottish people and protecting her daughters threatened birth right. Content until now to remain in the background and play the part of the obedient wife, Marie spent the next eighteen years effectively governing Scotland, devoting her considerable intellect, courage and energy to safeguarding her daughters inheritance by using a deft mixture of cunning, charm, determination and tolerance.
I really enjoyed reading this biography of Marie De Guise. She suffered so many personal losses, and sadness during her lifetime, burying 2 husbands and 4 of her 5 children, yet she managed to successfully hold the Regency for her daughter, Mary Queen of Scots for 8 years. She was successful in keeping the country Catholic, when it was struggling with the rise of the protestants, as well as constant conflicts with England.
Marie seemed to have learned from the mistakes of her Mother in Law, Margaret Tudor, and remained single after the death of King James V, allowing her to hold the Regency for her daughter. Marie also appears to have been a very caring and warm hearted lady, who hated being apart from her son and daughter.
I found the writing style of this book enjoyable, and although there was lots of facts, it didn't feel bogged down and boring to read. The only thing I wish there had been more of, was the inclusion of primary evidence, although I know this may not have been possible, as not all records would have survived.
Overall this is a really good and well written biography, about a Queen and Regent, who is often overshadowed by her daughter and contemporaries.
James' premature death four years later left their six day old daughter, Mary, as Queen and presented Marie with the formidable challenge of winning the support of the Scottish people and protecting her daughters threatened birth right. Content until now to remain in the background and play the part of the obedient wife, Marie spent the next eighteen years effectively governing Scotland, devoting her considerable intellect, courage and energy to safeguarding her daughters inheritance by using a deft mixture of cunning, charm, determination and tolerance.
I really enjoyed reading this biography of Marie De Guise. She suffered so many personal losses, and sadness during her lifetime, burying 2 husbands and 4 of her 5 children, yet she managed to successfully hold the Regency for her daughter, Mary Queen of Scots for 8 years. She was successful in keeping the country Catholic, when it was struggling with the rise of the protestants, as well as constant conflicts with England.
Marie seemed to have learned from the mistakes of her Mother in Law, Margaret Tudor, and remained single after the death of King James V, allowing her to hold the Regency for her daughter. Marie also appears to have been a very caring and warm hearted lady, who hated being apart from her son and daughter.
I found the writing style of this book enjoyable, and although there was lots of facts, it didn't feel bogged down and boring to read. The only thing I wish there had been more of, was the inclusion of primary evidence, although I know this may not have been possible, as not all records would have survived.
Overall this is a really good and well written biography, about a Queen and Regent, who is often overshadowed by her daughter and contemporaries.
April 29, 2025
Even though Marie was a Queen, she's not one we talk about every day but her daughter Mary I, Queen of Scotts is. It makes me wonder if Mary had her mother's better guidance, if she wouldn't have had such an end.
It is always a treat to learn about a woman's history. It was a great read, and I don't believe there was a boring lull for me at all.
It is always a treat to learn about a woman's history. It was a great read, and I don't believe there was a boring lull for me at all.
July 6, 2021
Good book
I love this book for the history that you learn. I have not read any book by this writer before. After reading this book i will be reading more by her. I did not know anything about her till i read this book.
I love this book for the history that you learn. I have not read any book by this writer before. After reading this book i will be reading more by her. I did not know anything about her till i read this book.
August 26, 2024
This was gifted to me by my sister a brilliant read fascinating and well researched also on #KindleUnlimited
November 11, 2019
The title is misleading.
This is scholarly look at Marie de Guise's life. She had four sons two with her first husband and two with James V her second husband. However only her last child Mary lived into adulthood.This book manages to combine personal and political events in a fairly clear manner. Considering the tumult over religion the intense rivalry for power , Marie emerges as an intelligent moral person in a time when such qualities were not prevalent.Henry VIII affected her life for time but was not the dominant factor in her life. Her daughter was the motivation for the major portion of her adult life keeping her safe and keeping her position as Queen of Scotland emerges as where she spent her considerable charm, intellect, and energy.
This is scholarly look at Marie de Guise's life. She had four sons two with her first husband and two with James V her second husband. However only her last child Mary lived into adulthood.This book manages to combine personal and political events in a fairly clear manner. Considering the tumult over religion the intense rivalry for power , Marie emerges as an intelligent moral person in a time when such qualities were not prevalent.Henry VIII affected her life for time but was not the dominant factor in her life. Her daughter was the motivation for the major portion of her adult life keeping her safe and keeping her position as Queen of Scotland emerges as where she spent her considerable charm, intellect, and energy.
June 27, 2019
Great History of a Great Lady
This is the kind of history I like. Easy to read. Not too analytical in terms of motivation or psychology- it’s almost impossible to delve into the mind of a 16thC autocratic ruler after all. I learned more about Queen Mary of Guise from this than any other chapters in other books. Her Regency was always brushed over as a blip in History- when Scotland was ruled by a council in Mary Queen of Scots absence. What an amazing self sacrificing woman. I would love to have met her. Rod of Iron for a Spine. If you like Scottish History, read this, it fills in some Big Gaps.
This is the kind of history I like. Easy to read. Not too analytical in terms of motivation or psychology- it’s almost impossible to delve into the mind of a 16thC autocratic ruler after all. I learned more about Queen Mary of Guise from this than any other chapters in other books. Her Regency was always brushed over as a blip in History- when Scotland was ruled by a council in Mary Queen of Scots absence. What an amazing self sacrificing woman. I would love to have met her. Rod of Iron for a Spine. If you like Scottish History, read this, it fills in some Big Gaps.
June 1, 2021
Marie de Guise was the Mother of Mary, Queen of Scots. We hear so much of the Tudors, Elizabethans and Mary herself but I knew nothing of the woman that gave birth to her. This is well written and enjoyable and gave me an idea of the woman behind the famous daughter. The title is a little misleading as Henry Viii doesn't appear that much, just a couple of chapters but overall I enjoyed reading about a lesser known royal of that time period
March 24, 2025
An interesting and sympathetic account of the life of Marie de Guise. Not sure about the title, as she seemed more troublesome to Elizabeth rather than her father... But still a good book.
December 17, 2018
Disappointing read. The story of Mary queen of Scots' mother and her attempt to secure the throne for her daughter.
April 2, 2021
Melanie Clegg Scourge of Henry V111 The Life of Marie de Guise, Pen & Sword, Pen & Sword History, 2021 (first published 2016).
Thank you NetGalley for this uncorrected proof copy for review.
As I finished this biography of a most remarkable woman, I wondered why Henry V111 was given top billing in the title. Not only did he die well before Marie de Guise, (January 1547, she died in June 1560) but her life was far more than her relationship with the English king. Her impact on Elizabeth 1, though her daughter, Mary Queen of Scots, was, although after her death, worthy of consideration. One link with Elizabeth is Mary sending her a portrait of her mother in white mourning – perhaps a reminder that Elizabeth had had the power to make this immensely courageous woman’s life a little easier? Perhaps it would be more appropriate to refer Marie de Guise as the scourge of the last of the Tudors? In addition, de Guises’ relationship with the French through her family, armies and political figures, as well as with the English who sought her compliance, and the Scots who found her feminine ways appealing at the end of her life, but her resourcefulness during her time as regent, difficult, comprise an important part of Marie de Guises’ history. She was a scourge to many, fulfilling the modern quote,’ Well behaved women seldom make history’ (Laurel Hatcher Ulrich).
The index is well made, and there is a comprehensive bibliography. At the stage I read the book, there are no citations, most glaringly in association with quotes from letters. To be fair, this might be corrected in the final copy, bearing in mind that I am reviewing from an uncorrected proof. The addition of photos is always a positive feature of a popular history, and this book does not suffer the problem of an apparent throwing together photos that often have no strong relation to the text. Clegg has chosen carefully, so that the reader has a visual understanding of the people, the castles, and the detail of some of the latter. There is a list of Dramatic Personae, categorized under French, The Bourbons, The Valois, Scotland, England, and The Tudors. Each name is followed by a brief explanation of their relationship to other characters – a helpful feature. However, even with the list and some detail, the tumble of characters and their links, particularly in the early chapters, are hard to distinguish. Would some family trees have helped? Or possibly clear listings of the groups with individual pages? This is a history that appears to have been written to be accessible, rather than academic or laden with theory so, to me, clarity is particularly important. This could be improved with more signposting. The chapter headings could be more detailed or carefully crafted to become useful pointers to the content. In doing so they would provide a map to the content that could enhance clarity.
At the same time as I make these critical observations, I hasten to say what a gripping story Marie de Guises’ life poses. The Mary Queen of Scots versus Elizabeth 1 story is popular in academic and popular histories, television series and films. Henry V111, even more so. Melanie Clegg has produced a history of another intriguing figure, who clearly deserves this attention. I would have loved to give it four stars but must fall back on three and a half because of the issues I have discussed above. That being said, Melanie Clegg has gathered together a wonderful array of material, I suspect largely unknown by general readers. I feel that I have met another strong woman through Clegg’s work, and appreciate the opportunity to have done so.
Thank you NetGalley for this uncorrected proof copy for review.
As I finished this biography of a most remarkable woman, I wondered why Henry V111 was given top billing in the title. Not only did he die well before Marie de Guise, (January 1547, she died in June 1560) but her life was far more than her relationship with the English king. Her impact on Elizabeth 1, though her daughter, Mary Queen of Scots, was, although after her death, worthy of consideration. One link with Elizabeth is Mary sending her a portrait of her mother in white mourning – perhaps a reminder that Elizabeth had had the power to make this immensely courageous woman’s life a little easier? Perhaps it would be more appropriate to refer Marie de Guise as the scourge of the last of the Tudors? In addition, de Guises’ relationship with the French through her family, armies and political figures, as well as with the English who sought her compliance, and the Scots who found her feminine ways appealing at the end of her life, but her resourcefulness during her time as regent, difficult, comprise an important part of Marie de Guises’ history. She was a scourge to many, fulfilling the modern quote,’ Well behaved women seldom make history’ (Laurel Hatcher Ulrich).
The index is well made, and there is a comprehensive bibliography. At the stage I read the book, there are no citations, most glaringly in association with quotes from letters. To be fair, this might be corrected in the final copy, bearing in mind that I am reviewing from an uncorrected proof. The addition of photos is always a positive feature of a popular history, and this book does not suffer the problem of an apparent throwing together photos that often have no strong relation to the text. Clegg has chosen carefully, so that the reader has a visual understanding of the people, the castles, and the detail of some of the latter. There is a list of Dramatic Personae, categorized under French, The Bourbons, The Valois, Scotland, England, and The Tudors. Each name is followed by a brief explanation of their relationship to other characters – a helpful feature. However, even with the list and some detail, the tumble of characters and their links, particularly in the early chapters, are hard to distinguish. Would some family trees have helped? Or possibly clear listings of the groups with individual pages? This is a history that appears to have been written to be accessible, rather than academic or laden with theory so, to me, clarity is particularly important. This could be improved with more signposting. The chapter headings could be more detailed or carefully crafted to become useful pointers to the content. In doing so they would provide a map to the content that could enhance clarity.
At the same time as I make these critical observations, I hasten to say what a gripping story Marie de Guises’ life poses. The Mary Queen of Scots versus Elizabeth 1 story is popular in academic and popular histories, television series and films. Henry V111, even more so. Melanie Clegg has produced a history of another intriguing figure, who clearly deserves this attention. I would have loved to give it four stars but must fall back on three and a half because of the issues I have discussed above. That being said, Melanie Clegg has gathered together a wonderful array of material, I suspect largely unknown by general readers. I feel that I have met another strong woman through Clegg’s work, and appreciate the opportunity to have done so.
March 25, 2021
This is a book about the mother of Mary Queen of Scots, Marie de Guise. Really she should be better known as she was very important in Scottish, English, and French history. Thank you to Pen & Sword Books, Melanie Clegg, and NetGalley for allowing me to read an eGalley of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I liked the author’s voice most of the time. The text starts out a bit like historical fiction but then reverts back into more of a narration of history, which I prefer in a biography. The author’s explanation of people and events helped me to bolster my understanding of this time period and the players. With so many important players and political upheaval in western Europe and the British Isles at this time it can be quite confusing.
There are editorial problems, though, and this book was published in 2016, I believe in the UK. There are sentences in the text that desperately need to be broken up into separate sentences. One of the run-on sentences near the beginning of the book is:
He was also sent further afield and, in 1521, could be found fighting for the French in Navarre as part of an invasion of Spain, where he managed to distinguish himself at the siege of the allegedly impregnable fortress town of Fuenterrabia, which was considered to be the key to northwestern Spain.
(I tried to indent this whole paragraph as it is a quote, and the Goodreads software would not allow it.)
There’s more than one thought here and this could’ve been broken down into at least two interesting sentences. Readers such as myself who enjoy history but have been trained to write in direct, strong language find long, multi-concept sentences to be jarring.
Also, the publisher could’ve done a much better job of editing this text. There are words that are run together, missing words in sentences, and extra words in a sentence that make no sense. This was first published in September 2016, these errors should’ve been corrected! There’s too many of them.
It would’ve been helpful to have just a little more background on who Monsieur d’Oysel and Ralph Sadler were. From reading the text we can understand their purpose but not a lot about them without secondary research. A few additional words about the Landsknechts would also have been interesting.
When the author begins to bring “Elizabeth Tudor” into the conversation from 1558 on, it might be helpful for some readers if there is a notation or mention that she became Queen of England in 1558. I may have missed this in the text, and there is a disconnect when Elizabeth is referred to as “Queen Elizabeth” later on (at the time that Marie de Guise goes to Edinburgh Castle during England’s attack from the Firth of Forth). Also confusing is that the author discusses Marie writing “her final letters to the faithful Oysel” on June 27, but then a page later Marie is meeting with the lords of the Congregation on June 7. (This is at about 93% of the ebook.) It’s a particularly egregious mistake since Marie de Guise died on June 11, 1560.
Overall, it’s a good book and I recommend it. Jut be prepared for editorial issues.
I liked the author’s voice most of the time. The text starts out a bit like historical fiction but then reverts back into more of a narration of history, which I prefer in a biography. The author’s explanation of people and events helped me to bolster my understanding of this time period and the players. With so many important players and political upheaval in western Europe and the British Isles at this time it can be quite confusing.
There are editorial problems, though, and this book was published in 2016, I believe in the UK. There are sentences in the text that desperately need to be broken up into separate sentences. One of the run-on sentences near the beginning of the book is:
He was also sent further afield and, in 1521, could be found fighting for the French in Navarre as part of an invasion of Spain, where he managed to distinguish himself at the siege of the allegedly impregnable fortress town of Fuenterrabia, which was considered to be the key to northwestern Spain.
(I tried to indent this whole paragraph as it is a quote, and the Goodreads software would not allow it.)
There’s more than one thought here and this could’ve been broken down into at least two interesting sentences. Readers such as myself who enjoy history but have been trained to write in direct, strong language find long, multi-concept sentences to be jarring.
Also, the publisher could’ve done a much better job of editing this text. There are words that are run together, missing words in sentences, and extra words in a sentence that make no sense. This was first published in September 2016, these errors should’ve been corrected! There’s too many of them.
It would’ve been helpful to have just a little more background on who Monsieur d’Oysel and Ralph Sadler were. From reading the text we can understand their purpose but not a lot about them without secondary research. A few additional words about the Landsknechts would also have been interesting.
When the author begins to bring “Elizabeth Tudor” into the conversation from 1558 on, it might be helpful for some readers if there is a notation or mention that she became Queen of England in 1558. I may have missed this in the text, and there is a disconnect when Elizabeth is referred to as “Queen Elizabeth” later on (at the time that Marie de Guise goes to Edinburgh Castle during England’s attack from the Firth of Forth). Also confusing is that the author discusses Marie writing “her final letters to the faithful Oysel” on June 27, but then a page later Marie is meeting with the lords of the Congregation on June 7. (This is at about 93% of the ebook.) It’s a particularly egregious mistake since Marie de Guise died on June 11, 1560.
Overall, it’s a good book and I recommend it. Jut be prepared for editorial issues.
January 20, 2024
Marie de Guise was mother and regent of Mary. Queen of Scots. Even though she ruled Scotland effectively, her accomplishments have largely been overshadowed by Mary, Queen of Scots failures. In the first biography of Marie de Guise in over thirty years, Scourge of Henry VIII brings Marie de Guise’s story to light. Marie is portrayed as a woman of keen intellect, charm, hard-working, and energetic as she continually fought to secure Mary’s inheritance.
Marie de Guise was from the powerful de Guise clan. When she was eighteen, she married the Duc de Longueville. She gave birth to Francois d'Orleans. The marriage was happy, but short-lived. Louis fell ill and died, leaving Marie de Guise a widow at the age of 21.
Marie de Guise was happy enough to remain single. Unfortunately, she had two royal kings seeking her hand in marriage, James V and Henry VIII. According to this biography, Marie de Guise was inclined to marry Henry VIII. However, she left the decision to King Francis of France. King Francis wanted to keep up the alliance between Scotland and France and agreed to let James V have Marie.
Marie married James V through a proxy marriage and sailed for France. Her marriage to James was short-lived. She had five children, but only Mary, Queen of Scots survived. Defeated by the English at the Battle of Solway Moss, James fell ill and died leaving his daughter Mary queen at 6 days old.
The regency of Mary, Queen of Scots fell to the Earl of Arran instead of Marie. It would take twelve years for her to be Regent, in which she ruled for eight years. She struggled with the rise of Protestantism, her conflict with England, and keeping her daughter’s inheritance secured. Thus, Marie De Guise’s struggle for power was long, but she continued to hold power till her death.
Overall, this biography showed Marie de Guise to be a capable and politically-adept ruler. Scourge of Henry VIII is a comprehensive and light read for the general reader. There were a few historical errors, and I thought that there should be a more appropriate title for this biography. Nevertheless, it sheds light on Marie de Guise’s accomplishments. Marie de Guise learned from her mother-in-law Margaret Tudor’s failures. While Margaret’s marriages made her lose her authority as regent, Marie de Guise did not remarry so that she could still keep her authority. Mrs. Clegg compares her to Elizabeth because the two made sacrifices for their realm. Thus, Marie de Guise was a better ruler than her daughter, who has largely eclipsed her in fame. Hopefully, Marie de Guise’s story will be more known and she will be given the attention and credit of a capable ruler as she deserves.
Marie de Guise was from the powerful de Guise clan. When she was eighteen, she married the Duc de Longueville. She gave birth to Francois d'Orleans. The marriage was happy, but short-lived. Louis fell ill and died, leaving Marie de Guise a widow at the age of 21.
Marie de Guise was happy enough to remain single. Unfortunately, she had two royal kings seeking her hand in marriage, James V and Henry VIII. According to this biography, Marie de Guise was inclined to marry Henry VIII. However, she left the decision to King Francis of France. King Francis wanted to keep up the alliance between Scotland and France and agreed to let James V have Marie.
Marie married James V through a proxy marriage and sailed for France. Her marriage to James was short-lived. She had five children, but only Mary, Queen of Scots survived. Defeated by the English at the Battle of Solway Moss, James fell ill and died leaving his daughter Mary queen at 6 days old.
The regency of Mary, Queen of Scots fell to the Earl of Arran instead of Marie. It would take twelve years for her to be Regent, in which she ruled for eight years. She struggled with the rise of Protestantism, her conflict with England, and keeping her daughter’s inheritance secured. Thus, Marie De Guise’s struggle for power was long, but she continued to hold power till her death.
Overall, this biography showed Marie de Guise to be a capable and politically-adept ruler. Scourge of Henry VIII is a comprehensive and light read for the general reader. There were a few historical errors, and I thought that there should be a more appropriate title for this biography. Nevertheless, it sheds light on Marie de Guise’s accomplishments. Marie de Guise learned from her mother-in-law Margaret Tudor’s failures. While Margaret’s marriages made her lose her authority as regent, Marie de Guise did not remarry so that she could still keep her authority. Mrs. Clegg compares her to Elizabeth because the two made sacrifices for their realm. Thus, Marie de Guise was a better ruler than her daughter, who has largely eclipsed her in fame. Hopefully, Marie de Guise’s story will be more known and she will be given the attention and credit of a capable ruler as she deserves.
April 16, 2024
I listened to this audiobook through Audible, but I own a copy of the ebook.
Brief Summary: A biographical look at the life of Marie de Guise, Queen Consort of Scotland and mother to Mary, Queen of Scots. Including her early years as part of a powerful French family and her first marriage to Louis II d'Orleans, Duke of Longueville this book also examines the impact that she had on Scotland through her marriage to James V of Scotland and during her regency for her daughter.
Thoughts: This is a very well-researched biography of one of the British Isles and Europe's key players in the 16th century. I think that Clegg did an excellent job of discussing the life of Marie de Guise while continuing to focus on her subject. Obviously, as a Queen Consort and mother of one of the most famous British Queens, there is a large record still existing about Marie's life simply due to the sheer volume of material.
My favourite part of this book was the discussion of Marie's second marriage. I knew that Henry VIII had considered her as a potential wife after the death of Jane Seymoure, but the level of detail that Clegg went into concerning the marriage negotiations and how it was a twist of fate that led to her marrying the King of Scots was really interesting to delve into. It was also interesting to me how Marie was such good friends with James' first wife, Madeleine of France. I knew that Marie was a member of a prominent French family, but sometimes it is hard to remember just how close the inner circles of the famous figures from this period actually were.
My second favourite part of this book was the discussion of how Marie attempted to modernize Scotland so that it could be a more self-sustaining country. I wonder to what extent her attempts to institute changes and how these were perceived as too French contributed to Mary's later difficulties with the Scottish nobles.
Finally, I enjoyed how Clegg depicted Marie as a mother. Until recently I was unaware that Marie had children from her first marriage and that coupled with the children from her second marriage was heartbreaking.
Overall a good introduction to Marie de Guise as a historical figure. I would recommend it.
Content Warnings
Graphically described in text: Xenophobia, War, Pregnancy, Misogyny, Grief, Death of a parent, Child death, Classism, Death, Infidelity, Murder, Religious bigotry, and Sexism
Brief Summary: A biographical look at the life of Marie de Guise, Queen Consort of Scotland and mother to Mary, Queen of Scots. Including her early years as part of a powerful French family and her first marriage to Louis II d'Orleans, Duke of Longueville this book also examines the impact that she had on Scotland through her marriage to James V of Scotland and during her regency for her daughter.
Thoughts: This is a very well-researched biography of one of the British Isles and Europe's key players in the 16th century. I think that Clegg did an excellent job of discussing the life of Marie de Guise while continuing to focus on her subject. Obviously, as a Queen Consort and mother of one of the most famous British Queens, there is a large record still existing about Marie's life simply due to the sheer volume of material.
My favourite part of this book was the discussion of Marie's second marriage. I knew that Henry VIII had considered her as a potential wife after the death of Jane Seymoure, but the level of detail that Clegg went into concerning the marriage negotiations and how it was a twist of fate that led to her marrying the King of Scots was really interesting to delve into. It was also interesting to me how Marie was such good friends with James' first wife, Madeleine of France. I knew that Marie was a member of a prominent French family, but sometimes it is hard to remember just how close the inner circles of the famous figures from this period actually were.
My second favourite part of this book was the discussion of how Marie attempted to modernize Scotland so that it could be a more self-sustaining country. I wonder to what extent her attempts to institute changes and how these were perceived as too French contributed to Mary's later difficulties with the Scottish nobles.
Finally, I enjoyed how Clegg depicted Marie as a mother. Until recently I was unaware that Marie had children from her first marriage and that coupled with the children from her second marriage was heartbreaking.
Overall a good introduction to Marie de Guise as a historical figure. I would recommend it.
Content Warnings
Graphically described in text: Xenophobia, War, Pregnancy, Misogyny, Grief, Death of a parent, Child death, Classism, Death, Infidelity, Murder, Religious bigotry, and Sexism
April 6, 2021
Note: This book was provided at not cost by NetGalley, where this review has been posted.
What first compelled me to request this book was the blurb and the realization that, indeed, I knew very little about Marie de Guise. I’ve read novels and non-fiction about both her predecessor as Queen of Scots, Henry VIII’s sister Margaret Tudor, and her successor, the famous Mary, Elizabeth I’s arch-nemesis, so I was quite intrigued to find out more about this other historical figure.
And Melanie Clegg didn’t disappoint me. She draws a fascinating picture of Marie de Guise’s forebears, including her upbringing in Lorraine, where she was surrounded by an almost clan-like, but loving family. The portraits of her doting mother, pious but cunning, and her larger-than-life chevalier of a father, successful war veteran and his daughter’s hero, together with other eminent members of the Guise let me understand how Marie’s character was forged. Later she joins the sparkling French court of King Francis I (François 1er), where she meets her husband, the Duke of Longueville. Theirs is a happy union which allows her to establish the same relationship of two equals she has seen her parents construct between themselves. Alas, only two years after their son Francis is born, the Duke dies at Rouen and leaves Marie a (well provided-for) widow.
She then goes on to marry Henry VIII’s nephew James V of Scotland against the resistance of the English king, who apparently would have liked to win her as his own wife instead. When Marie moves to Scotland, she leaves her little, beloved son behind. And her suffering has only just begun, because her first two sons by James die at a very young age, and her new husband deceases as well only six days after their daughter Mary was born. A situation which leads to a serious struggle for power between several forces within Scotland…
A highly enjoyable read that not only paints a compelling portrait of the Queen of Scots with lush details told in a vivid narrative, but also draws the picture of Marie de Guise’s contemporaries as well as of her times. Maybe there might not be enough referenced detail for a scholar, but for a lay historian with an educated interest in the Tudor-era like I am, this is a really good source not only of information but also of entertainment in the sense that I really loved reading the book.
What first compelled me to request this book was the blurb and the realization that, indeed, I knew very little about Marie de Guise. I’ve read novels and non-fiction about both her predecessor as Queen of Scots, Henry VIII’s sister Margaret Tudor, and her successor, the famous Mary, Elizabeth I’s arch-nemesis, so I was quite intrigued to find out more about this other historical figure.
And Melanie Clegg didn’t disappoint me. She draws a fascinating picture of Marie de Guise’s forebears, including her upbringing in Lorraine, where she was surrounded by an almost clan-like, but loving family. The portraits of her doting mother, pious but cunning, and her larger-than-life chevalier of a father, successful war veteran and his daughter’s hero, together with other eminent members of the Guise let me understand how Marie’s character was forged. Later she joins the sparkling French court of King Francis I (François 1er), where she meets her husband, the Duke of Longueville. Theirs is a happy union which allows her to establish the same relationship of two equals she has seen her parents construct between themselves. Alas, only two years after their son Francis is born, the Duke dies at Rouen and leaves Marie a (well provided-for) widow.
She then goes on to marry Henry VIII’s nephew James V of Scotland against the resistance of the English king, who apparently would have liked to win her as his own wife instead. When Marie moves to Scotland, she leaves her little, beloved son behind. And her suffering has only just begun, because her first two sons by James die at a very young age, and her new husband deceases as well only six days after their daughter Mary was born. A situation which leads to a serious struggle for power between several forces within Scotland…
A highly enjoyable read that not only paints a compelling portrait of the Queen of Scots with lush details told in a vivid narrative, but also draws the picture of Marie de Guise’s contemporaries as well as of her times. Maybe there might not be enough referenced detail for a scholar, but for a lay historian with an educated interest in the Tudor-era like I am, this is a really good source not only of information but also of entertainment in the sense that I really loved reading the book.
May 15, 2021
Originally posted on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
Scourge of Henry VIII is a loosely based historical biography of Marie De Guise presented by historian Melanie Clegg. Originally published in 2016, this reformat and re-release by Pen & Sword is due out in July 2021. It's 224 pages and will be available in paperback format. (Other editions available in other formats).
This is an engagingly written and layman accessible biography of the mother of Mary, Queen of Scots. Widowed early, with the infant Mary in a precarious position, she became regent ruler of Scotland in 1554 until her own death in 1560.
The books biographical and historical chapters are arranged roughly chronologically. The timeline is easy to follow and the author writes clearly and layman accessibly, so I didn't have any trouble following the narrative. There is also a list of dramatis personae in the front of the book, so it's a simple matter to flip back and see who's who if necessary.
This is not an academic treatise. There are no chapter notes or footnotes. The language is layman accessible and more narrative than precise. The book does include an abbreviated and helpful bibliography and cross referenced index. There is also a very interesting photographic appendix which includes black and white photos and facsimiles of many period buildings, blueprints, and portraits of the main players in the story.
Four stars. This is an interesting and well told biography of a woman who is largely ignored even by historians specializing in the period.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Scourge of Henry VIII is a loosely based historical biography of Marie De Guise presented by historian Melanie Clegg. Originally published in 2016, this reformat and re-release by Pen & Sword is due out in July 2021. It's 224 pages and will be available in paperback format. (Other editions available in other formats).
This is an engagingly written and layman accessible biography of the mother of Mary, Queen of Scots. Widowed early, with the infant Mary in a precarious position, she became regent ruler of Scotland in 1554 until her own death in 1560.
The books biographical and historical chapters are arranged roughly chronologically. The timeline is easy to follow and the author writes clearly and layman accessibly, so I didn't have any trouble following the narrative. There is also a list of dramatis personae in the front of the book, so it's a simple matter to flip back and see who's who if necessary.
This is not an academic treatise. There are no chapter notes or footnotes. The language is layman accessible and more narrative than precise. The book does include an abbreviated and helpful bibliography and cross referenced index. There is also a very interesting photographic appendix which includes black and white photos and facsimiles of many period buildings, blueprints, and portraits of the main players in the story.
Four stars. This is an interesting and well told biography of a woman who is largely ignored even by historians specializing in the period.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
January 31, 2019
What was the last non-fiction book you read..?
.
I was kindly sent a few books by @penswordbooks last month and was so excited to get stuck in! The first one I picked up was ‘The Scourge Of Henry VIII - The Life Of Marie De Guise by Melanie Clegg
.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! For many people, reading a non-fiction book can be a bit of a chore and even I agree that sometimes they can be overwhelming, especially the ones with the date overloads, but this one read almost like a work of fiction! .
Following the life of Marie De Guise, who was born into the ambitious and powerful Lorraine family, we get to what life was like for her growing up in one of the most dazzling Courts of the era, that of Francois I of France.
We learn about her troubles, her brief courtship with Henry VIII, her marriages and how she eventually came to marry Henry’s nephew, James V of Scotland.
I was pleasantly surprised by how much depth the author went into with James. I had no idea he was a depressed and very paranoid man. But I suppose that is to be expected when you’re King and have the weight of the world on your shoulders
.
I’ve read many books on historical figures, but only one other on Marie De Guise. This one was so much better. It felt more real, and was definitely a lot more fact based! I loved discovering how Marie became this strong & courageous figure that was devoted to protecting her daughters (Mary Queen of Scots) birthright after James V died. .
A fantastic gilmps into the life of the mother of Mary Queen of Scots
4⭐️
.
.
I was kindly sent a few books by @penswordbooks last month and was so excited to get stuck in! The first one I picked up was ‘The Scourge Of Henry VIII - The Life Of Marie De Guise by Melanie Clegg
.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! For many people, reading a non-fiction book can be a bit of a chore and even I agree that sometimes they can be overwhelming, especially the ones with the date overloads, but this one read almost like a work of fiction! .
Following the life of Marie De Guise, who was born into the ambitious and powerful Lorraine family, we get to what life was like for her growing up in one of the most dazzling Courts of the era, that of Francois I of France.
We learn about her troubles, her brief courtship with Henry VIII, her marriages and how she eventually came to marry Henry’s nephew, James V of Scotland.
I was pleasantly surprised by how much depth the author went into with James. I had no idea he was a depressed and very paranoid man. But I suppose that is to be expected when you’re King and have the weight of the world on your shoulders
.
I’ve read many books on historical figures, but only one other on Marie De Guise. This one was so much better. It felt more real, and was definitely a lot more fact based! I loved discovering how Marie became this strong & courageous figure that was devoted to protecting her daughters (Mary Queen of Scots) birthright after James V died. .
A fantastic gilmps into the life of the mother of Mary Queen of Scots
4⭐️
.
March 29, 2020
I acknowledge at the start that as a deep lover of history, I MUCH prefer reading historical fiction to biography. And this book reminded me why.
It's a straight-forward, chronological piecing-together of people, events and facts -- some directly-related and some tangentially related to Marie de Guise. Reading it mostly feels a lot like many not-very-interesting history lessons I remember from school decades ago.
I picked it up because I knew little about Marie, except that she gave birth to Mary Queen of Scots. And I DID learn more about her. More about her powerful family in France. About her first husband and son in France. About the children she lost. About her eagerness to become Regent of Scotland after the sudden death of her husband, James V. But was it interesting? Not very.
I wound up skimming sections. Especially because there was a lot of information included about LOTS of other people, other than Marie. For example, a detailed description of the Field of the Cloth of Gold meeting between Henry VIII of England and Francois I of France -- in 1520. An important historical event? Arguable. But not having much to do with Marie de Guise.
I can't say I recommend this, unless you're desperate to know more about Marie de Guise. But then, you could probably learn just as much by reading her Wikipedia page.
One More Small Point: why this book title begins with "Scourge of Henry VIII" I have no idea. The fact that Henry at one time considered marrying Marie is a minuscule part of her story.
It's a straight-forward, chronological piecing-together of people, events and facts -- some directly-related and some tangentially related to Marie de Guise. Reading it mostly feels a lot like many not-very-interesting history lessons I remember from school decades ago.
I picked it up because I knew little about Marie, except that she gave birth to Mary Queen of Scots. And I DID learn more about her. More about her powerful family in France. About her first husband and son in France. About the children she lost. About her eagerness to become Regent of Scotland after the sudden death of her husband, James V. But was it interesting? Not very.
I wound up skimming sections. Especially because there was a lot of information included about LOTS of other people, other than Marie. For example, a detailed description of the Field of the Cloth of Gold meeting between Henry VIII of England and Francois I of France -- in 1520. An important historical event? Arguable. But not having much to do with Marie de Guise.
I can't say I recommend this, unless you're desperate to know more about Marie de Guise. But then, you could probably learn just as much by reading her Wikipedia page.
One More Small Point: why this book title begins with "Scourge of Henry VIII" I have no idea. The fact that Henry at one time considered marrying Marie is a minuscule part of her story.
January 4, 2023
This book follows Marie de Guise, probably better recognised as the mother of Mary, Queen of Scots. If you’d like a telling of someone who is perhaps more shadowed by history’s touch than her daughter, this is the book for you. It’s written in an easy to digest manner that never skirts into dryness. I’m perpetually wincing and bracing against history books that take even fascinating events and make them into kindling.
Anyway! I didn’t really know anything about her, and found Marie to be fascinating—she was strong, independent, and fierce in her ideals, helping those less fortunate. It was also interesting to learn how close and loving her family was, and how her parents valued each other as an equal partnership, and didn’t force their children into marriages without having their agreement. Neat to sort of prod at a notion that all children were pawns used without any consideration whatsoever as to their feelings.
Poor Marie; she suffered so much heartbreak and even acknowledged it to her mother at one point, saying, ‘I think, my lady, as you wrote to me, that Our Lord must wish me for one of His chosen ones, since He has visited me so often with such sorrow.’ A lot of times, the further back historically people get, and the more aloof and political the records, it’s harder to relate to them, but Marie de Guise seems like a person you could sympathise with immediately, and even befriend.
Anyway! I didn’t really know anything about her, and found Marie to be fascinating—she was strong, independent, and fierce in her ideals, helping those less fortunate. It was also interesting to learn how close and loving her family was, and how her parents valued each other as an equal partnership, and didn’t force their children into marriages without having their agreement. Neat to sort of prod at a notion that all children were pawns used without any consideration whatsoever as to their feelings.
Poor Marie; she suffered so much heartbreak and even acknowledged it to her mother at one point, saying, ‘I think, my lady, as you wrote to me, that Our Lord must wish me for one of His chosen ones, since He has visited me so often with such sorrow.’ A lot of times, the further back historically people get, and the more aloof and political the records, it’s harder to relate to them, but Marie de Guise seems like a person you could sympathise with immediately, and even befriend.
June 14, 2021
Marie was a charming, likeable and caring person who was forced to deal with several tragedies and dramas. She had to cope with her husband James V's black moods, English attacks, the deaths of some of her children and separation from others, fighting with volatile Scottish lords - the list goes on and on. The 'rough wooing' of her daughter by Henry VIII, who was anxious to marry Marie's more famous daughter Mary, Queen of Scots to his son required particular skills. Marie almost always coped admirably, hardly ever making mistakes.
Marie's activities as Queen Regent especially impressed me. She oversaw many laws designed to set Scotland, weakened by numerous battles, back on its feet, for example, imposing harsh penalties on poachers and forbidding the export of meat to ensure supplies. She was also upset about the loss of trees which had been cut down to provide wood for the navy, so she gave orders to protect them.
This is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of royalty.
I received this free ebook from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
EDITION Paperback
ISBN 9781399013123
PRICE £14.99 (GBP)
Marie's activities as Queen Regent especially impressed me. She oversaw many laws designed to set Scotland, weakened by numerous battles, back on its feet, for example, imposing harsh penalties on poachers and forbidding the export of meat to ensure supplies. She was also upset about the loss of trees which had been cut down to provide wood for the navy, so she gave orders to protect them.
This is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of royalty.
I received this free ebook from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
EDITION Paperback
ISBN 9781399013123
PRICE £14.99 (GBP)
April 4, 2021
If you enjoy the stories of the Tudor era you should read this! Not that it talks about the Tudors much (the title is misleading) but it is a really good introduction to Marie De Guise. It also shows the Guise family in only a caring light, which is nice and unusual. This biography is light and does not require prior knowledge of the time or the players to be understood. Anyone without prior knowledge may have some difficulty understanding how the political climate developed or how the relationships/history of the countries involved played a major influencing role in the decisions made by Maria De Guise and the other figures mentioned throughout. However, history is steeped in history and no one book can give the whole picture. For those who know a fair amount about this time period, you shouldn't expect to learn anything new but it is still fun to read.
M. Clegg's style of writing in engaging and brings Marie's story to life. Most importantly, it leaves one wanting to learn more. Thank you very much to Netgalley for the opportunity to read such an entertaining book.
M. Clegg's style of writing in engaging and brings Marie's story to life. Most importantly, it leaves one wanting to learn more. Thank you very much to Netgalley for the opportunity to read such an entertaining book.
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