Young James Stewart, the heir to the throne of Scotland, is in mortal danger. His father, King Robert III, is dying, and King Robert’s half-brother, the Duke of Albany, is plotting to seize power. James is forced to flee Scotland and his murderous uncle. Captured and imprisoned by the English, he grows to be a man of contradictions: a poet yet a knight, a dreamer yet fiercely driven. Hardened by … by his years in the Tower of London, James is determined to regain his freedom and end the Duke of Albany’s misrule. But King Henry of England is equally determined that to do so, James must betray Scotland and everything he believes in.
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This novel about James the King of Scotland was meticulously researched. It seemed to drag a bit because much of the setting was James’ imprisonment by King Henry of England. I suppose James felt was rather boring and dreary too…the part about James fighting in France for Henry was fascinating. I would read the sequel if I got the chance.
A kingship denied to the twelve year old Scottish prince James Stewart, who spent all his growing years in captivity. Although treated with some respect he still was denied his freedom and as he grew older was forced to fight wars on the side of his captors! Hard to believe he could develop into the mentally strong person he became as an adult. …
This is historical fiction about King James of Scotland and King Henry of England from 1412 to the mid-1420s. James is captured by Henry when he is a preteen and held in captivity. His older brother was killed by his uncle and his father died. His uncle became the regent. James could not be crowned due to his uncle. Because this story spans over a …
The first half of the book, with the exception of James capture, is fairly boring. It consists of a daily scene at whichever castle James is currently being held prisoner at. The action does pick up when he goes on the road to war with King Henry. From there on out, it’s a good story but prepare yourself for a very slow start.
bad language
Historical fiction
It is mostly about his years as an English captive, which dragged a little, but the human interest side of his feelings and not just the history was very good read. ****
Well written historical novel
The story is hard to follow at first, but becomes engrossing. Found myself actively rooting for the Scottish King (Of course) at the end.
Love the history
I struggled getting into this book and the characters. The end leaves you at a point but not a complete end. You can tell it was left some what open for a second story.
A better and more enjoyable read than I had anticipated.
Good novelization of history
Too many characters in a convoluted plot. I know this was based on historical events, but I kept getting lost!!
Interesting how history can be related through real historical characters in a fictional way.
Great read.
A rather optimistic story of a Scottish King which disagrees with facts as known. Since the history of that time is sketchy I guess the author can do what he likes.
Its not a bad read
A well done book, A King Snared by JR Tomlin. It tells of young James who was to be King after his father. Captured by King Henry and kept a prisoner all the life of King Henry. Growing up in the London Tower and on. A prisoner yet holding his own.
Very entertaining presentation of history.
I think that this fictional account of James’ life is quite tragic. So many years as a prisoner!