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ifyouhappentoremember's review
4.0
I’ve read plenty of books set during the Elizabethan era and books that feature Queen Elizabeth I as a character, but I don’t think I’ve ever read a novel about Elizabeth.
Susan Kay’s Legacy is a well regarded work, often cited as a psychological portrait of the Queen. I will say that she manages to condense a whole bunch of history and politics into an engaging enough novel. The first half of the book is stronger than the second half. The tension of Elizabeth trying to navigate the politics and religious tensions that could result in a violent demise is very interesting.
Susan Kay’s Legacy is a well regarded work, often cited as a psychological portrait of the Queen. I will say that she manages to condense a whole bunch of history and politics into an engaging enough novel. The first half of the book is stronger than the second half. The tension of Elizabeth trying to navigate the politics and religious tensions that could result in a violent demise is very interesting.
anniekenway's review
emotional
informative
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
hnatola's review
3.0
I am not sure how to rate this
I bought this book thinking it would be more of a historical perspective on Queen Elizabeth but it is a novelization of her life. The book started out rough and I almost didn't continue. I stuck to it and I'm glad I did but I read it alternating between wanting it to end and not being able to put it down. In the end, I'm glad i finished it, but I could have done with about 150 fewer pages.
I bought this book thinking it would be more of a historical perspective on Queen Elizabeth but it is a novelization of her life. The book started out rough and I almost didn't continue. I stuck to it and I'm glad I did but I read it alternating between wanting it to end and not being able to put it down. In the end, I'm glad i finished it, but I could have done with about 150 fewer pages.
iirenity's review
5.0
This has to be the absolute best portayal of Elizabeth I Tudor that I have ever had the pleasure to read. Unlike other books, it neither paints the "Virgin Queen" as a Saint or a devil. It offers both perspectives and by doing so makes her so much more real and believable to the reader. After reading this book I find it so much harder to read other Elizabeth Tudor centered novels. Even I, Elizabeth was drab and unentertaining compared to this novel. Taking us from her youth to her death, Susan Kay magnificently shows us her interpretation of the protestant Queen's life. Amazing. I recommend it to all, especially those in love with the Tudor household.
joolsaguemont's review
4.0
I loved this book! I absolutely loved it. My obsession with Elizabeth I started over a presentation at uni and my mum owned this novelization of the Queen's life. It's well researched but at the same way told in a manner that makes it feel fresh and new. I loved how the "triangle" between Elizabeth and Cecil and Leicester was portrayed and how her struggles were conveyed. A lovely book! I'm giving 4 instead of 5 stars for one small matter: The author decided to turn Elizabeth/Rob into a "proper" couple at some point and for me this is both unlikely and unnecessary to grasp the scope of their relationship.
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