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Reign of the Marionettes
Mass hysteria sweeps through the country with deadly consequences. Beneath the wit and laughter of Charles II’s Restoration Court, political and religious tensions mount, and Countess Elizabeth Herbert tries to keep her family safe. When Titus Oates, a minister begging on the streets, claims to have uncovered a plot to kill the King and replace him with his Catholic heir, no one is safe from accusation. When suspicion falls on her husband, Elizabeth’s life is thrown into turmoil. As a tangled web of lies and deceit unfolds, Elizabeth realises her husband is a pawn in a much larger game. Caught up in the mass hysteria sweeping the country she’s forced to fight back to stop his execution for high treason. But, how can a woman take on the most powerful men in England? Set at a time of religious and political turmoil, when the fate of English rule is at stake, and it’s impossible to know who to trust ‘Reign of the Marionettes’ brims with historical detail and intrigue.
#historical fiction #Stuarts #17th century
#historical fiction #Stuarts #17th century
682 pages, Paperback
Published December 19, 2016
17 people are currently reading
703 people want to read
About the author
Sheena Macleod
32 books68 followersWriter of historical fiction, and an avid reader. I like some fact to my fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
June 17, 2018
Politics and intrigue come together in this novel by author Sheena MacLeod in an accounting rich in detail and historical fact. While some historical novels bend and twist various plot aspects to suit the story, Ms. MacLeod has painstakingly stuck to the events that happened back in the 17th Century.
“Reign of the Marionettes” is told from several points of view, allowing readers to become immersed in all sides of the political conflict. Occurring a few years after The Great Fire of London, the story revolves around The Popish Plot. This scheme was an attempt to shift political power, using the Catholic and Protestant religions as a base to incite hatred and spread lies in an attempt to affect the succession to the throne.
Chief among the storytellers is Elizabeth, wife of William Herbert, the Earl of Powis. Titus Oates, the chief fabricator of the Popish Plot, is also featured. Other characters take over the reins when necessary, providing continuity and clarity. This novel is plot-driven, though any lack of character description is more than made up with the factual motivations tied to the characters. History is behind the steering wheel, with the author filling in the dialogue and moving the story at a steady pace.
Although there were moments when the timing of plot events seemed a little ragged, overall the tale possessed all the elements of danger and intrigue such as might be written about in a fictional account. “Reign of the Marionettes” was an entertaining read, and a wonderful way to gain insight into a fascinating slice of history. Four stars.
“Reign of the Marionettes” is told from several points of view, allowing readers to become immersed in all sides of the political conflict. Occurring a few years after The Great Fire of London, the story revolves around The Popish Plot. This scheme was an attempt to shift political power, using the Catholic and Protestant religions as a base to incite hatred and spread lies in an attempt to affect the succession to the throne.
Chief among the storytellers is Elizabeth, wife of William Herbert, the Earl of Powis. Titus Oates, the chief fabricator of the Popish Plot, is also featured. Other characters take over the reins when necessary, providing continuity and clarity. This novel is plot-driven, though any lack of character description is more than made up with the factual motivations tied to the characters. History is behind the steering wheel, with the author filling in the dialogue and moving the story at a steady pace.
Although there were moments when the timing of plot events seemed a little ragged, overall the tale possessed all the elements of danger and intrigue such as might be written about in a fictional account. “Reign of the Marionettes” was an entertaining read, and a wonderful way to gain insight into a fascinating slice of history. Four stars.
September 9, 2017
I was fascinated by the awful political dynamics that are the heart of this story. Titus, the instigator who creates such havoc, is an opportunist who happens to strike gold with his vicious lies about people.
The character Titus reminded me of Eugene McCarthy who created the public panic about communism in the 1950s and destroyed people with his accusations. In Restoration London, it was Catholicism that was the evil philosophy rather than communism, and the accused were brutally executed.
The lies started by Titus and his friends took on a life on their own and fired up the public. It reminded me of how lies and rumors spread on social media these days. Eventually, the truth seems to become irrelevant.
As demonstrated in this book, humans have a history of imprisoning and torturing people to get them to agree to be witnesses to almost any story. In our time, we have seen how waterboarding has accomplished the same kinds of results.
I was struck by how fortunate we are in our society to have freedom of religion and basic civil rights, including protection from torture and imprisonment without charges being made.
Sheena MacLeod is very careful to base her story on historical facts about these events. The complex dynamics of the politics are carefully depicted and the characters on both sides are well drawn. While my sympathies are with the accused Catholics, I understood why Titus and the other conspiracy mongers did what they did. Titus is a horrible person, but I could see that his complete failure in life had driven him to these evil actions. When one is begging in the streets, it certainly could inspire a person to do awful things.
I was especially pleased to see the women in the book take an active part in fighting for truth and justice. I think it’s unfortunate that so much of historical fiction seems to make women into characters who are victims of circumstances, rather than people who stand up for themselves and people they love.
I highly recommend Reign of the Marionettes to anyone who is interested in politics as well as history and who loves gripping stories.
The character Titus reminded me of Eugene McCarthy who created the public panic about communism in the 1950s and destroyed people with his accusations. In Restoration London, it was Catholicism that was the evil philosophy rather than communism, and the accused were brutally executed.
The lies started by Titus and his friends took on a life on their own and fired up the public. It reminded me of how lies and rumors spread on social media these days. Eventually, the truth seems to become irrelevant.
As demonstrated in this book, humans have a history of imprisoning and torturing people to get them to agree to be witnesses to almost any story. In our time, we have seen how waterboarding has accomplished the same kinds of results.
I was struck by how fortunate we are in our society to have freedom of religion and basic civil rights, including protection from torture and imprisonment without charges being made.
Sheena MacLeod is very careful to base her story on historical facts about these events. The complex dynamics of the politics are carefully depicted and the characters on both sides are well drawn. While my sympathies are with the accused Catholics, I understood why Titus and the other conspiracy mongers did what they did. Titus is a horrible person, but I could see that his complete failure in life had driven him to these evil actions. When one is begging in the streets, it certainly could inspire a person to do awful things.
I was especially pleased to see the women in the book take an active part in fighting for truth and justice. I think it’s unfortunate that so much of historical fiction seems to make women into characters who are victims of circumstances, rather than people who stand up for themselves and people they love.
I highly recommend Reign of the Marionettes to anyone who is interested in politics as well as history and who loves gripping stories.
May 13, 2017
A story steeped in history and intrigue, author Sheena Macleod's writing brings the past to life with her detailed descriptions of the time. I loved the story, hated a couple of villains and feared for the main characters and their safety. The book spun a tense web of treasonous lies and plots. It kept me engrossed with its suspense and realism.
February 26, 2018
‘Reign of the Marionettes’ is an intense story with well-developed and intricate characters embroiled in a clever plot.
Sheena Macleod has a talent for writing; she brings a complicated story that could otherwise be heavy and confusing to life. I found myself putting the book down and wondering what will happen to the characters until I could get back to reading again.
Elizabeth, the main character is a woman of surprising determination amidst all the upheaval around her. Nothing stops her from doing all she can to keep her family safe, despite the forces against her. It’s a world where death and punishment happen on a whim or simple rumours. I could not help but love Elizabeth’s character, a strong and resourceful woman in the courts of King Charles II, while women of this era are usually depicted as wileful and cunning.
Sheena Macleod has a talent for writing; she brings a complicated story that could otherwise be heavy and confusing to life. I found myself putting the book down and wondering what will happen to the characters until I could get back to reading again.
Elizabeth, the main character is a woman of surprising determination amidst all the upheaval around her. Nothing stops her from doing all she can to keep her family safe, despite the forces against her. It’s a world where death and punishment happen on a whim or simple rumours. I could not help but love Elizabeth’s character, a strong and resourceful woman in the courts of King Charles II, while women of this era are usually depicted as wileful and cunning.
October 21, 2017
This story is set in the reign of King Charles II and covers the years from 1673 to 1684.
Based on real events, it tells of an attempt by Protestants Lord Shaftesbury and lord Buckingham to replace Catholic sympathiser, James, Duke of York. as the King's successor with the Duke of Monmouth (the eldest illegitimate son of the King).To achieve this, Lord Shaftesbury and his supporters in the Country party spread rumours of a papist plot to kill the king. Catholics, including elderly Jesuit priests, are soon hunted down and persecuted.
This book is full of fascinating characters, such as the odious Titus Oates, a clergyman, who has fallen on hard times. Titus has no redeeming qualities. A prolific liar, full of his own self importance, he claims to have uncovered a Catholic plot to kill the King. Titus is used by Shaftesbury, but it's not long before he becomes an out of control monster, prepared to condemn anyone he holds a grudge against, and even those who have showed kindness to him.
Elizabeth Herbert is married to a Catholic nobleman, the Earl of Powis. Haunted by her father's persecution, she is determined to find out more about Titus Oates when her family's security is threatened. Elizabeth is a likeable character, fiercely loyal and protective of those she loves.
Her friendship with Mary Beatrice, the young wife of the Duke of York, gives an insight into life at court. Life was hard, even for those of the highest social standing, as evidenced by Mary Beatrice's numerous still births and miscarriages.
The King is loyal to his brother, the Duke of York, but fearful of another Civil War and reliant on Parliament for money. Heavily in debt, he borrows money from his Catholic cousin, Louis XIV of France, in an attempt to free himself from the control of Parliament. Fearful of alienating Shaftesbury and his supporters, there comes a time when Charles is forced to act and assert his authority and this he does.
The author has brought this era vividly to life. While reading I felt I was there in London, able to imagine the sights and sounds of the coffee and ale houses and to identify with the characters.
The horrors of the time are brilliantly conveyed through the descriptions of the Tower of London where noblemen are imprisoned without any real evidence. Elizabeth has a friend, Mrs. Gellier who visits the prisoners at Newgate Prison and is sympathetic to their plight. Through her we learn the reality of the awful conditions.
This is a very dangerous time. Spies are everywhere and often people do not know who they can trust. People are imprisoned without warning with reputations and families destroyed.
The author has obviously carried out a great deal of research and this shows. When reading a historical novel, it is important to me that the language and descriptions used are authentic. The author has certainly achieved this, immersing the reader into this period.
This book contains plenty of mystery, plotting and suspense and the story gripped me from the beginning.
I loved this book. Highly recommended.
Based on real events, it tells of an attempt by Protestants Lord Shaftesbury and lord Buckingham to replace Catholic sympathiser, James, Duke of York. as the King's successor with the Duke of Monmouth (the eldest illegitimate son of the King).To achieve this, Lord Shaftesbury and his supporters in the Country party spread rumours of a papist plot to kill the king. Catholics, including elderly Jesuit priests, are soon hunted down and persecuted.
This book is full of fascinating characters, such as the odious Titus Oates, a clergyman, who has fallen on hard times. Titus has no redeeming qualities. A prolific liar, full of his own self importance, he claims to have uncovered a Catholic plot to kill the King. Titus is used by Shaftesbury, but it's not long before he becomes an out of control monster, prepared to condemn anyone he holds a grudge against, and even those who have showed kindness to him.
Elizabeth Herbert is married to a Catholic nobleman, the Earl of Powis. Haunted by her father's persecution, she is determined to find out more about Titus Oates when her family's security is threatened. Elizabeth is a likeable character, fiercely loyal and protective of those she loves.
Her friendship with Mary Beatrice, the young wife of the Duke of York, gives an insight into life at court. Life was hard, even for those of the highest social standing, as evidenced by Mary Beatrice's numerous still births and miscarriages.
The King is loyal to his brother, the Duke of York, but fearful of another Civil War and reliant on Parliament for money. Heavily in debt, he borrows money from his Catholic cousin, Louis XIV of France, in an attempt to free himself from the control of Parliament. Fearful of alienating Shaftesbury and his supporters, there comes a time when Charles is forced to act and assert his authority and this he does.
The author has brought this era vividly to life. While reading I felt I was there in London, able to imagine the sights and sounds of the coffee and ale houses and to identify with the characters.
The horrors of the time are brilliantly conveyed through the descriptions of the Tower of London where noblemen are imprisoned without any real evidence. Elizabeth has a friend, Mrs. Gellier who visits the prisoners at Newgate Prison and is sympathetic to their plight. Through her we learn the reality of the awful conditions.
This is a very dangerous time. Spies are everywhere and often people do not know who they can trust. People are imprisoned without warning with reputations and families destroyed.
The author has obviously carried out a great deal of research and this shows. When reading a historical novel, it is important to me that the language and descriptions used are authentic. The author has certainly achieved this, immersing the reader into this period.
This book contains plenty of mystery, plotting and suspense and the story gripped me from the beginning.
I loved this book. Highly recommended.
March 29, 2017
I was fortunate to see this book in the making and it certainly belongs in schools. How to make history truly interesting. This book educated me while being entrenched into the story. The time period had political struggles that led to hangings people found entertaining. Sheena Macleod captures the essence of the time period, while making you worry if the people can survive the move of lies told for political gain. I highly recommend this book for everyone.
January 1, 2017
This is a well-conceived, finely-crafted and well-written story of manipulation, deceit and intrigue during the turmoil and bitter hatred of the Papists following the English Civil War. Sheena adds colour and life to the history of the era, allowing us to sense the events more deeply. Very well done.
April 4, 2017
Sweeping historical novel of political upheaval in Restoration England. Long, but fast-moving, with many disparate characters and viewpoints. Written in an admirably concise, direct prose that is almost journalistic, yet focused on the characters. Most of the characters are actual historical persons, their stories told with a deft hand.
May 31, 2017
Such an interesting and intriguing read!
The blurb grabbed my attention and from there onwards the book never left me. Such a wonderful and enthralling read! Loved it!
This book has taken pride of place on my bookshelf!
I won this book via a Goodreads giveaway.
The blurb grabbed my attention and from there onwards the book never left me. Such a wonderful and enthralling read! Loved it!
This book has taken pride of place on my bookshelf!
I won this book via a Goodreads giveaway.
July 7, 2018
REIGN OF THE MARIONETTES, the debut novel by Sheena Macleod, provides a highly entertaining portrayal of mid- to late-17th century power struggles after the restoration of King Charles II and the English monarchy following the English Civil War. Very early on, I could tell it was going to be a complex story, but Macleod does a masterful job of interjecting tiny snippets of explanation without distracting the reader away from the ongoing storyline. Her multiple points-of-view clearly show the passions of those involved and the tensions created between Protestants and "Papists." With so much written about Oliver Cromwell versus King Charles I during the English Civil War, I would enthusiastically recommend REIGN OF THE MARIONETTES to all who are interested in what came next.
February 4, 2018
Reign of the Marionettes brings to life in intricate detail the intrigue, deceptions, and conspiracies that marked the reign of King Charles II, one of England’s most beloved and popular monarchs. Through her eloquent descriptions and realistic depictions of characters, both real and fictional, Ms. MacLeod succeeds in immersing the reader in this passionate tale fraught with action and intensity that doesn't let up.
Lady Elizabeth Herbert, a Catholic noblewoman, recalls only too well the persecutions inflicted on her father by religious zealots. While she hopes to keep the past behind her, fate and her unwitting husband, the Earl of Powis, embroil her in a deadly struggle to protect her family from the machinations of powerful men bent on seizing control of the throne.
Compelling storytelling is the mark of a true author. Ms. MacLeod has captured the darkness and the light of human nature, deftly handling a cast of the many personalities whose political motives are clearly, chillingly defined. If I’ve any criticism of the book, it would be the few slow parts, but these do not overshadow an otherwise captivating story.
Lady Elizabeth Herbert, a Catholic noblewoman, recalls only too well the persecutions inflicted on her father by religious zealots. While she hopes to keep the past behind her, fate and her unwitting husband, the Earl of Powis, embroil her in a deadly struggle to protect her family from the machinations of powerful men bent on seizing control of the throne.
Compelling storytelling is the mark of a true author. Ms. MacLeod has captured the darkness and the light of human nature, deftly handling a cast of the many personalities whose political motives are clearly, chillingly defined. If I’ve any criticism of the book, it would be the few slow parts, but these do not overshadow an otherwise captivating story.
December 20, 2018
Sheena Macleod's voice is rich and wonderful in this tale of political and religious intrigue. Her voice is strong and regal as Charles the II himself, in this tale of supposed assassination plots, catholic and protestant tension, and the effects on our heroine, Elizabeth, and her family.
May 12, 2018
Reign of the Marionettes is an accomplished retelling of the events of “The Restoration” period in England. The true personalities, events, and complex politics of this turbulent time are conveyed with clarity in the novel. Fabricated plots and corrosive propaganda against rightful rulers and their associates is sadly an ongoing truism, and thus the story, though set in the late 1600’s, feels current. We read of the inhumane but legal physical punishment that is commonplace in other lands and eras; such nauseating cruelty is described in just enough detail that one won’t shut the book. The motives and emotions of the characters are discernable and relatable. Loving and loveless marriages are foundational to everything that occurs, but the author only hints at romance so the reader is not diverted. In addition to the timelines and players she presents, Macleod nimbly weaves inventions into the story to fill gaps and soften edges. The outcome of the author's time at her writing loom is a tapestry worthy of the walls of Powis Castle.
June 9, 2017
“Reign of the Marionettes” is definitely a must-read for all fans of the historical fiction genre. Taking place in 17th century England it tells a riveting story of high society, intrigues, secret plots and power struggles between Catholic and Protestant noblemen, and the latter will stop at nothing to secure their rule no matter what the price.
Told mostly through the eyes of Lady Elizabeth Herbert – a Catholic noblewoman who still remembers the persecutions her family had been subjected to due to their religion – the story concentrates around the plot concocted by the Protestant lords, who dream of removing all Catholics from the Parlament, including the King’s younger brother, James. Even though Elizabeth wants nothing else but to live her life and take care of her family, her husband unwittingly gets entangled in the dangerous plot, which might eventually lead to his execution. And in the times when even the high court refuses to be impartial, and the King himself is fearing another Civil War, is it possible for the truth to be revealed after all? Read this masterfully crafted story and you’ll find out.
I definitely want to applaud the author for her meticulous research and authentic language. After turning the very first page I felt immediately immersed into a world of old England and sometimes I had to hold my breath while watching the events unfold in front of my eyes. Beautifully written and full of intrigue this novel should be on every historical fiction lover’s to-read list. Five stars.
Told mostly through the eyes of Lady Elizabeth Herbert – a Catholic noblewoman who still remembers the persecutions her family had been subjected to due to their religion – the story concentrates around the plot concocted by the Protestant lords, who dream of removing all Catholics from the Parlament, including the King’s younger brother, James. Even though Elizabeth wants nothing else but to live her life and take care of her family, her husband unwittingly gets entangled in the dangerous plot, which might eventually lead to his execution. And in the times when even the high court refuses to be impartial, and the King himself is fearing another Civil War, is it possible for the truth to be revealed after all? Read this masterfully crafted story and you’ll find out.
I definitely want to applaud the author for her meticulous research and authentic language. After turning the very first page I felt immediately immersed into a world of old England and sometimes I had to hold my breath while watching the events unfold in front of my eyes. Beautifully written and full of intrigue this novel should be on every historical fiction lover’s to-read list. Five stars.
March 28, 2018
Thank you Netgalley and BooksGoSocial for the eARC.
King Charles II was not a character I was familiar with, so this book was an interesting read for me. When I checked Wikipedia I found out most of the novel is based on actual events and people and the obvious in depth research by Sheena MacLeod is impressive.
The hatred between Protestants and Catholics is frightening but resonated with me - we humans haven't changed much, if at all.
Lady Elizabeth Herbert is the main character and the one I empathized with most. When the Protestants start rumors of a plot against the King and all Protestants, Elizabeth (a Catholic) fears tremendously for the safety of her family. Her husband, Powis, is incarcerated and she is unable to be in contact with him for months, driving her to fight with all her powers to prove the plot is a malicious lie. The man responsible for the false rumors, an odious character called Titus Oates, is backed by powerful Protestants who want nothing more than to rid England of the King. The amount of innocent people killed is enormous and the manner in which they're put to death horrendous.
On the whole I enjoyed the book; the history and descriptions of the political machinations are fascinating, but there were times I grew bored, which is why I decided to give it 3.5 stars.
Recommended for fans of fact based historical fiction.
King Charles II was not a character I was familiar with, so this book was an interesting read for me. When I checked Wikipedia I found out most of the novel is based on actual events and people and the obvious in depth research by Sheena MacLeod is impressive.
The hatred between Protestants and Catholics is frightening but resonated with me - we humans haven't changed much, if at all.
Lady Elizabeth Herbert is the main character and the one I empathized with most. When the Protestants start rumors of a plot against the King and all Protestants, Elizabeth (a Catholic) fears tremendously for the safety of her family. Her husband, Powis, is incarcerated and she is unable to be in contact with him for months, driving her to fight with all her powers to prove the plot is a malicious lie. The man responsible for the false rumors, an odious character called Titus Oates, is backed by powerful Protestants who want nothing more than to rid England of the King. The amount of innocent people killed is enormous and the manner in which they're put to death horrendous.
On the whole I enjoyed the book; the history and descriptions of the political machinations are fascinating, but there were times I grew bored, which is why I decided to give it 3.5 stars.
Recommended for fans of fact based historical fiction.
September 26, 2017
I love historical movies and television, but haven’t really read much historical fiction. I will now. This book has me sold on the genre. I knew right off the bat I would love the setting. I’ve always had a fascination with courts and politics.
And the politics indeed. What an exceptional story of intrigue and treachery. I loved the well-rounded characters set amid the history. The details were impressive both in facts, settings, and personalities.
It was paced fast, which was also surprising. I’m not sure why I expected it be a mellow ride, but I’m so glad it wasn’t. The tension and action, treason and plot pushed me forward at a rapid pace.
I really look forward to the next part and more from this author.
And the politics indeed. What an exceptional story of intrigue and treachery. I loved the well-rounded characters set amid the history. The details were impressive both in facts, settings, and personalities.
It was paced fast, which was also surprising. I’m not sure why I expected it be a mellow ride, but I’m so glad it wasn’t. The tension and action, treason and plot pushed me forward at a rapid pace.
I really look forward to the next part and more from this author.
January 23, 2018
This story unfolds during the turbulent reign of King Charles II as his Catholic and Protestant subjects struggle to live peacefully side by side. You are not sure who you can trust and there is a good chance you will be persecuted for your religious beliefs. This story is full of characters surrounded by political intrigue as some unsavory individuals pursue power. It is very difficult to bring history to life and to capture the feeling of the time. For me personally, I found it difficult to connect to any of the characters simply because the story was told from so many points of view. The narration style is journalistic and full of description. Overall, an interesting story and characters.
January 27, 2024
Sheena Macleod is an expert at weaving historical facts into a fast-paced narrative. So often we hear and read about the people who lived through these experiences, but they are nothing but one dimensional. Marionettes humanizes these characters, so the reader begins to relate to and care about them and their struggles. Once I started reading, I immediately became interested in learning more about the lives of the characters, especially Elizabeth Herbert, Titus Oates, and King Charles. I also enjoyed Sheena's imagery in the scenes of the book. Her descriptions are beautifully vivid. A highly recommended, well-written, and well-researched glimpse into history!
August 14, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed Reign of the Marionettes. The author, Sheena Macleod, did a very good job in writing the story. The characters were interesting and all had a part to play. The heroes and heroines were worth routing for, and the villains were descent villains.
As books go, there clearly were certain errors. Even a professional cannot find everything. But, overall, Reign of the Marionettes is a well written book. I enjoyed from start to finish, though I was slightly confused by the prologue. But, I don't not know the true history of the dates in the book, so that could be from my own ignorance.
For those who enjoy reading historical fiction, I would recommend this book.
As books go, there clearly were certain errors. Even a professional cannot find everything. But, overall, Reign of the Marionettes is a well written book. I enjoyed from start to finish, though I was slightly confused by the prologue. But, I don't not know the true history of the dates in the book, so that could be from my own ignorance.
For those who enjoy reading historical fiction, I would recommend this book.
April 1, 2017
An intriguing tale of long ago England and the conspiracies of both Protestants and Catholics. A plot , against King Charles II was exposed, but was it contrived by a man who only wanted revenge for past wrongs done to him? The characters were vividly described I especially liked Elizabeth who being a Catholic in then Protestant England had to deal with prejudices and fear for her life as well as for her husband and children.
It was very well written with lots of historical facts. A book hard to put down.
It was very well written with lots of historical facts. A book hard to put down.
December 4, 2019
Reign of the Marionettes is an action-packed journey into the lives of the 17th century English nobility. At a time when people are already divided by religion (Catholics and Protestants), rumours are spread about a Catholic plot to assassinate the King. When Elizabeth's husband, Powis, is placed on the list of conspirators, Elizabeth plans to do whatever she can to clear his name before he, too, is executed. Sheena Macleod has clearly gone to extensive lengths to research this history and bring it all together into an engaging story. I'll be looking out for her second book in the series.
March 18, 2017
I love history but I haven't read fiction in this era before so what I knew about Charles 11 you could write on a very small postage stamp. The writing is beautiful, once I started it wasn't just the story that gripped it was the mastery that this writer has of the English language. An easy 5 stars
May 3, 2017
Anyone with an interest in British history will relish this book.
Read full review in the 2017 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2017 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
April 10, 2018
Reign of the Marionettes was an enjoyable read. Historical fiction fans would find the book to be engaging, filled with intriguing characters, & loaded with authentic details. It is easy to see that Ms. Macleod did her research.
March 26, 2018
I found this book interesting even though it was not a genre of historical period history that I would read however I did find it interesting and would read it again maybe
October 8, 2018
It took me an absurdly long amount of time to find the right moments to read this amazing story, but I Absolutely loved it!
June 23, 2018
Cover designers always argue it is the cover that sells the book, as an author I would say it is the content. The cover for this book is stunning and although I thought it was Venice, I was happily surprised. It is nice to see a historical cover which does not just have people in period costume.
It is unfortunate that we expect every book we pick up to have a new and different perspective. Phillipa Gregory has written from the point of royal women, Hilary Mantel in the present tense, but this book can only modestly display, a beautiful clarity, wonderful historical detail and, villains you could cheerfully throttle. With a cast that rivals a Dickensian novel, the author has the good sense to include a list of characters at the start, giving their titles and relations to one another.
By starting with a short prologue set in 1556 in the reign of Mary Tudor the author sets the scene for what is to come. Mary blames her father Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn for bringing division to the church and the country, something that will continue under Charles II in whose reign the story is based.
Chapter One starts with the arrival of Mary Beatrice, a 15-year-old Italian, Catholic princess, who is to be the wife of James of York, Charles’s brother and heir to the throne. Charles had married the Catholic Princess Catherine of Portugal 11 years earlier. Both Catholic brides are the focal point for anticatholic sentiment, but Charles is viewed as a Protestant monarch, James is not. We see Mary Elizabeth’s vulnerability when she comes to court and Elizabeth, Countess of Powis, one of the central characters, befriends her. It is through her eyes, as wife and mother, not just a royal courtier, that we see the commitment and suffering of the Catholic faith.
Political intrigue is at the heart of this book with no one more embroiled in its sordid machinations than Titus Oates. Not so much a bumbling Mr. Collins as an odious Uriah Heep. Plagued by insecurity he seeks his father’s approval and respect, but when he does not get it, he resorts to abusing his father’s congregation. Cast out by his family he vacillates between poverty and promise. Obtaining a position on the ship as a Protestant chaplain, he is dismissed as lazy and not performing his job properly. He obtains a similar position at a noble’s house but loses this employment for the same reason. When introduced to the Jesuits Titus willingly professes to convert, only to betray them later as part of a Papist Plot.
With increasing paranoia surrounding Catholicism, Titus begins to make a name for himself through his association with Dr. Tonge and his accusations as a revered witness for the prosecution. This becomes the most lucrative and prosperous part of his life, where his perjury sends many Catholic men to the gallows. His wild accusations only fuel his ego, to the point where he feels invincible.
The Protestant or Parliamentary cause is best personified by the Earl of Shaftesbury. An old man unsteady on his feet, but still sharp enough not to declare a disliking of Catholics to Elizabeth Powis, but to couch it in terms of Parliamentary consultation. When Buckingham and Shaftesbury learn of a secret treaty with France, to fund Charles’s lifestyle, they see Parliament as being made redundant and with it their republican influence. Shaftsbury’s motivation concerns keeping the king’s position as one of subservience to Parliament.
The ending sees the Catholic Lords exonerated and the persecutors punished, but not before many innocent people die at the hands of a less than impartial judiciary. A novel of intrigue, manipulation, and power, reflecting the religious divides of the time, together with the paranoia and fear of either side getting the upper hand. Less Mission Impossible and more Remains of the Day and Amsterdam, anyone who enjoys historical fiction will love this book. As a fan, I can’t wait for the next one.
It is unfortunate that we expect every book we pick up to have a new and different perspective. Phillipa Gregory has written from the point of royal women, Hilary Mantel in the present tense, but this book can only modestly display, a beautiful clarity, wonderful historical detail and, villains you could cheerfully throttle. With a cast that rivals a Dickensian novel, the author has the good sense to include a list of characters at the start, giving their titles and relations to one another.
By starting with a short prologue set in 1556 in the reign of Mary Tudor the author sets the scene for what is to come. Mary blames her father Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn for bringing division to the church and the country, something that will continue under Charles II in whose reign the story is based.
Chapter One starts with the arrival of Mary Beatrice, a 15-year-old Italian, Catholic princess, who is to be the wife of James of York, Charles’s brother and heir to the throne. Charles had married the Catholic Princess Catherine of Portugal 11 years earlier. Both Catholic brides are the focal point for anticatholic sentiment, but Charles is viewed as a Protestant monarch, James is not. We see Mary Elizabeth’s vulnerability when she comes to court and Elizabeth, Countess of Powis, one of the central characters, befriends her. It is through her eyes, as wife and mother, not just a royal courtier, that we see the commitment and suffering of the Catholic faith.
Political intrigue is at the heart of this book with no one more embroiled in its sordid machinations than Titus Oates. Not so much a bumbling Mr. Collins as an odious Uriah Heep. Plagued by insecurity he seeks his father’s approval and respect, but when he does not get it, he resorts to abusing his father’s congregation. Cast out by his family he vacillates between poverty and promise. Obtaining a position on the ship as a Protestant chaplain, he is dismissed as lazy and not performing his job properly. He obtains a similar position at a noble’s house but loses this employment for the same reason. When introduced to the Jesuits Titus willingly professes to convert, only to betray them later as part of a Papist Plot.
With increasing paranoia surrounding Catholicism, Titus begins to make a name for himself through his association with Dr. Tonge and his accusations as a revered witness for the prosecution. This becomes the most lucrative and prosperous part of his life, where his perjury sends many Catholic men to the gallows. His wild accusations only fuel his ego, to the point where he feels invincible.
The Protestant or Parliamentary cause is best personified by the Earl of Shaftesbury. An old man unsteady on his feet, but still sharp enough not to declare a disliking of Catholics to Elizabeth Powis, but to couch it in terms of Parliamentary consultation. When Buckingham and Shaftesbury learn of a secret treaty with France, to fund Charles’s lifestyle, they see Parliament as being made redundant and with it their republican influence. Shaftsbury’s motivation concerns keeping the king’s position as one of subservience to Parliament.
The ending sees the Catholic Lords exonerated and the persecutors punished, but not before many innocent people die at the hands of a less than impartial judiciary. A novel of intrigue, manipulation, and power, reflecting the religious divides of the time, together with the paranoia and fear of either side getting the upper hand. Less Mission Impossible and more Remains of the Day and Amsterdam, anyone who enjoys historical fiction will love this book. As a fan, I can’t wait for the next one.
August 6, 2018
An excellent historical novel shining a spotlight on a particular tragically bloody moment of British political history after Charles II was restored to the throne, documenting the tussles that ensued between the old rule of the Monarchy, and the newly instituted rule of Parliament.
Sheena Macleod ably brings to life a complicated plot at a delicately balanced moment of history when political and religious factions were fighting to gain the upper hand by every underhand means possible.
Chief Rabbi Sacks in his book ‘Not in God’s Name’, documents an academic study that catalogued every major human conflict over the past three thousand years and found (at variance with popular belief) that only 10% of the acts of violence perpetrated around the world during that period actually contained a religious element/motivation. I cite this figure to help put this unhappy period of European history into perspective. As a person who grew up walking over the marking in the pavement in Oxford, St. Giles, where Protestant martyrs (Nicholas Ridley, Hugh Latimer and Thomas Cranmer), were burned at the stake in 1555/6 by Mary Tudor who had 280 protestants burned to death during her 5 year Catholic reign, this is a relief to know. But no wonder the Protestants were terrified of getting another Catholic Monarch…
Of course, it wasn’t really about religion. It was about power, absolute power, abuse of power and corruption – and using power to gain personal influence and riches. Any Catholic monarch had to owe allegiance to the Pope as a higher authority and therefore had to pay huge amounts of monies over to the Pope and do his bidding as regards European alliances. For hundreds of years the Popes and their corrupt rule dominated Europe. Of course, the Catholics hated the Protestants who asserted that no single human being was a higher authority than the individual man, except for God himself. Because it was this belief that allowed a Protestant King to get out from under the thumb of Rome and make his own choices and alliances and spend his own money how he wanted.
And here we have the first time that an independent Parliament sought to limit a monarch’s power. It was revolutionary. So revolutionary that it had caused civil war and so ahead of its time that there was no means of supporting it in the European climate of the time, so they ended up having to invite the heir to the throne back WHILE LIMITING HIS POWER BY HOLDING THE PURSE STRINGS! Unheard of! And oh dear, the new King did all the terrible things they were dreading. Grinding the faces of the starving helpless poor and using their hard-earned money to live a life of foppish luxury and unnecessary excess, fixated in his arrogant belief that he had a ‘divine right’ to rule he was using what residual power he had to form secret alliances and undermine Parliament. This is the background to the events that take place in this book. We’d love the Protestant parliamentarians to have been models of Christian justice – that would have been wonderful. But unfortunately, they too were products of their time and the early ‘democracy’ was shaky. And thus the events of this book took place.
Rabbi Sacks writes “Abraham himself sought to be a blessing to others regardless of their faith. That idea, ignored for many of the intervening centuries, remains the simplest definition of Abrahamic faith. It is not our task to conquer or convert the world or enforce uniformity of belief. It is our task to be a blessing to the world. The use of religion for political ends is not righteousness but idolatry . . . To invoke God to justify violence against the innocent is not an act of sanctity but of sacrilege.”
Sheena Macleod ably brings to life a complicated plot at a delicately balanced moment of history when political and religious factions were fighting to gain the upper hand by every underhand means possible.
Chief Rabbi Sacks in his book ‘Not in God’s Name’, documents an academic study that catalogued every major human conflict over the past three thousand years and found (at variance with popular belief) that only 10% of the acts of violence perpetrated around the world during that period actually contained a religious element/motivation. I cite this figure to help put this unhappy period of European history into perspective. As a person who grew up walking over the marking in the pavement in Oxford, St. Giles, where Protestant martyrs (Nicholas Ridley, Hugh Latimer and Thomas Cranmer), were burned at the stake in 1555/6 by Mary Tudor who had 280 protestants burned to death during her 5 year Catholic reign, this is a relief to know. But no wonder the Protestants were terrified of getting another Catholic Monarch…
Of course, it wasn’t really about religion. It was about power, absolute power, abuse of power and corruption – and using power to gain personal influence and riches. Any Catholic monarch had to owe allegiance to the Pope as a higher authority and therefore had to pay huge amounts of monies over to the Pope and do his bidding as regards European alliances. For hundreds of years the Popes and their corrupt rule dominated Europe. Of course, the Catholics hated the Protestants who asserted that no single human being was a higher authority than the individual man, except for God himself. Because it was this belief that allowed a Protestant King to get out from under the thumb of Rome and make his own choices and alliances and spend his own money how he wanted.
And here we have the first time that an independent Parliament sought to limit a monarch’s power. It was revolutionary. So revolutionary that it had caused civil war and so ahead of its time that there was no means of supporting it in the European climate of the time, so they ended up having to invite the heir to the throne back WHILE LIMITING HIS POWER BY HOLDING THE PURSE STRINGS! Unheard of! And oh dear, the new King did all the terrible things they were dreading. Grinding the faces of the starving helpless poor and using their hard-earned money to live a life of foppish luxury and unnecessary excess, fixated in his arrogant belief that he had a ‘divine right’ to rule he was using what residual power he had to form secret alliances and undermine Parliament. This is the background to the events that take place in this book. We’d love the Protestant parliamentarians to have been models of Christian justice – that would have been wonderful. But unfortunately, they too were products of their time and the early ‘democracy’ was shaky. And thus the events of this book took place.
Rabbi Sacks writes “Abraham himself sought to be a blessing to others regardless of their faith. That idea, ignored for many of the intervening centuries, remains the simplest definition of Abrahamic faith. It is not our task to conquer or convert the world or enforce uniformity of belief. It is our task to be a blessing to the world. The use of religion for political ends is not righteousness but idolatry . . . To invoke God to justify violence against the innocent is not an act of sanctity but of sacrilege.”
February 5, 2019
Very enjoyable!
This was a terrific historical fiction set in England only years after the Great Fire. The story highlights the political situation that occurred around the time of the Popish Plot to (theoretically) kill the King of England, and the ensuing persecution of Catholics.
The author has very clearly done her research as the book includes lots of detail. Thankfully, this detail is not delivered in a lecture format with information-dumps about the life and times! All the detail is weaved into the scenery, dialog, and events that occur. As I read, I very much felt I was getting a genuine vision of the time period in which the story occurs. Well done!
While there were quite a few characters, they are generally well crafted and therefore enjoyable (or absolutely despicable and horrid, like Titus Oates – I spent a good bit of my reading time cringing at his sliminess and hoping a building would fall on him!). I especially enjoyed Elizabeth, one of the main characters through which this story is told. She is an honorable and kind-hearted person who was (or should have been) an example to those around her. That said, even with the societal rules of the time, she finds the strength to not just “soldier on” when her husband is arrested, but to make an effort to correct the wrongs that are occurring. I really enjoyed her character and would want to emulate her if I ever found myself in Restoration England. ;)
The only real difficulty I had with this novel was the sheer number of characters that I needed to try and keep in mind – the cast is huge! On the other hand, I’ve tried to think of how the author could have avoided this and I believe it would have diminished the novel: Without showing the intricacies of the many political and social relationships involved in or affected by the machinations occurring, the story itself would not have been as historically or dramatically rich.
Well done! I easily recommend this book to lovers of historical fiction!
This was a terrific historical fiction set in England only years after the Great Fire. The story highlights the political situation that occurred around the time of the Popish Plot to (theoretically) kill the King of England, and the ensuing persecution of Catholics.
The author has very clearly done her research as the book includes lots of detail. Thankfully, this detail is not delivered in a lecture format with information-dumps about the life and times! All the detail is weaved into the scenery, dialog, and events that occur. As I read, I very much felt I was getting a genuine vision of the time period in which the story occurs. Well done!
While there were quite a few characters, they are generally well crafted and therefore enjoyable (or absolutely despicable and horrid, like Titus Oates – I spent a good bit of my reading time cringing at his sliminess and hoping a building would fall on him!). I especially enjoyed Elizabeth, one of the main characters through which this story is told. She is an honorable and kind-hearted person who was (or should have been) an example to those around her. That said, even with the societal rules of the time, she finds the strength to not just “soldier on” when her husband is arrested, but to make an effort to correct the wrongs that are occurring. I really enjoyed her character and would want to emulate her if I ever found myself in Restoration England. ;)
The only real difficulty I had with this novel was the sheer number of characters that I needed to try and keep in mind – the cast is huge! On the other hand, I’ve tried to think of how the author could have avoided this and I believe it would have diminished the novel: Without showing the intricacies of the many political and social relationships involved in or affected by the machinations occurring, the story itself would not have been as historically or dramatically rich.
Well done! I easily recommend this book to lovers of historical fiction!
April 18, 2021
I was captured by the history of England during the reign of Charles II in the 1600's. It seems that after the Church of England was established in 1530 during Henry VIII's reign there is still much religious dissension with plots and conspiracies abounding. Having recently readWolf Hall which describes the creation of the Church of England, Sheena Macleod's Reign of the Marionettes captured my interest.
As with many historical fiction the cast of characters is large and can be confusing. Macleod does provide a listing at the beginnng of the book which the reader can refer to. I enjoyed the main character, Elizabeth who was brave and heroic.
The villain of the book, Titus Oates is one of the worst ever and was a real person, which is quite intriguing.
I would recommend this book to those interested in learning more about this period.
As with many historical fiction the cast of characters is large and can be confusing. Macleod does provide a listing at the beginnng of the book which the reader can refer to. I enjoyed the main character, Elizabeth who was brave and heroic.
The villain of the book, Titus Oates is one of the worst ever and was a real person, which is quite intriguing.
I would recommend this book to those interested in learning more about this period.
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