Mary Queen of Scots

by Carol Schaefer

Only now has a true portrait of this poet, scholar, mother, stateswoman, and leader in religious tolerance re-emerged. Schaeffer's intimate biography takes readers inside the mind of the young leader, from her court intrigues, intense passions, and loveless marriages to her martyr's death at the executioner's hand.

Genres: Nonfiction

208 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2002

Reviews

[Shellie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I tried. I really tried. But it was such a snoozer for me it was almost torture I gave up on page 114 of 192. So close I know. The first third was actually pretty good but it quickly lost me after that. Sorry.

[Danielle Reily · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book was infuriating. Facts were twisted, everything was portrayed in the best light for Mary Queen of Scots.
I do believe that Queen Mary was unfairly portrayed during her life, and afterwards, but that doesn't mean that she was completely innocent. Schaefer has only shown one possible side to the queen, and presented only the facts and theories that back up her picture of Mary Queen of Scots. She does not allow for anything negative on the Scottish Queen's part. In contrast, everything Queen Elizabeth does is shown in the most negative possible way. I personally believe that if you are that biased towards a historical person you probably shouldn't write their biography. I spent a lot of time rolling my eyes at the obviously biased interpretation of facts.
I really can't recommend this book. I was very disappointed because I find Queen Mary fascinating and I was looking forward to reading about her.

[JoyceM · Rating 3 out of 5]

Movies have portrayed Mary as a seductrees, murderer, and adulterer. Schaefer tells the story of a saint and martyr who 'suffered for no cause except her religion.'