The Game of Kings

The first book in the "Lymond Chronicles" by historical novelist Dorothy Dunnett, this book was originally published in 1961 with several re-issues. There appear to be five additional books in the series. Set in the time after the death of Henry VIII, but told from the Scottish perspective, there is now a child on the throne of England and a child on the throne of Scotland. War and politics and treachery are the coin of all realms as Scotland struggles to maintain its independence. The protagonist, Francis Lymond, is an enigmatic character. His first appearance is as a rogue--thief, drunk, womanizer. He emerges--eventually--as a person of high moral character who is working according to his own agenda to help preserve Scotland from an avaricious England. But through much of the book, you are never really sure if he is a traitor or someone wrongly accused. I love reading about this period in history, but felt like I was talked to death at times by elaborate speeches full of literary and cultural references that left me clueless. It is complex in much the same way that Hilary Mantel's books about a slightly earlier period are--it was a complex time, admittedly, but this feels like a book for people who are much better versed in the history and politics than I apparently am.  Maybe though, as with Mantel, the second installment will be easier. I appreciate the encouragement of erudite friend Anne Zald for telling me about this book. I will pass it along to those who also enjoy this genre and time period and may even look for the next installment, Queen's Play.