The James V Trilogy: The Riven Realm / James, by the Grace of God / Rough Wooing

James V #1-3

by Nigel Tranter

1513, King James IV lies dead on Flodden's field, his young heir entrusted to two loyal lairds. There are many who seek to supplant or control the boy-king, and as he grows, his protectors struggle against the threats. This trilogy paints a picture of the turbulent life of the weak-willed king.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Scotland

1104 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 1996

About the author

Nigel Tranter OBE was a Scottish historian and writer. He was the author of a wide range of books on Scottish castles, particularly on themes of architecture and history. He also specialised in deeply researched historical novels that cover centuries of Scottish history.

Reviews

[Gryph Daley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I became intrigued about the history of King James V after reading several accounts (historical fiction) of Queen Mary of Scotland--notably Mary Queen of Scotland & The Isles by Margaret George. James V was her father and her son, James VI of Scotland, became King James I of England after the death of Elizabeth I.

I had always wondered why Mary was whisked away to France after her father's death, leaving her, and the Scottish throne, in the hands of her French mother. This novel presents an interesting and valid account of James V's character--coddling as a child, impetuous, and focused on being a military hero--and how it fed into allowing his only heir to be raised and influenced by a foreign power.

While there is plenty of action, as fleshed out in many historical battles, I found the observations of those surrounding him to be most interesting. James V is presented as flawed, very human, and torn between his obligations as King and his more personal desires.

[Sarah W. · Rating 3 out of 5]

A novelization of the life of James V of Scotland, the father of Mary Queen of Scots, filled with scheming nobles, plots, and familial politics. The characterization is weak and few of the characters ever change or develop in the course of the plot. Despite this, the turbulent life and times of James V makes for interesting reading and its something of a shame that his life has been overshadowed by that of his much more famous daughter.

[Bridget · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another good historical read from Nigel Tranter. I've actually read quite a few of his books, but can't be bothered to rate them all here. They are all pretty similar - good historical content but weak characterisation. If it's the history, battles, etc that you are after, then you will find this an interesting read.

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have enjoyed Tranter's books immensely. Many are hard to come by. He was an unbelievably prolific writer. I recommend them all highly.