Triple Alliance

by Nigel Tranter
Triple Alliance cover
Good Books rating 4.1
Historical Fiction
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  • ID: 6889
  • Added: 2025-12-05
  • Updated: 2025-12-05
  • ISBN: 9781444740196
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2011-11-28
  • Reviews: 3

Set against the backdrop of 17th-century Scotland, 'Triple Alliance' explores the complex dynamics between English military rule and Scottish resistance. Colonel James Stansfield, left in command after Oliver Cromwell's departure, befriends two captured Scottish lairds, Patrick, Lord Elibank, and George Hepburn of Monkrigg. Together, they establish a successful cloth-milling business in Haddington, utilizing the abundant wool from the Lammermuir Hills. Their enterprise grows to national importance, but it also sparks dramatic and unforeseen developments that test their alliance. The novel delves into the political and personal struggles of its characters, highlighting the tensions and collaborations that arise in a time of significant historical change. The story is not just about the business venture but also about the relationships and power dynamics that evolve as the trio navigates the complexities of their new partnership.

Reviews
Fantastic Fiction · 2025-12-05
compelling 3.80

The book is a compelling historical fiction that sheds light on the lesser-known aspects of 17th-century Scotland. The narrative is well-crafted and offers a unique blend of historical detail and engaging storytelling.

Fantastic Fiction users appreciate 'Triple Alliance' for its compelling historical fiction narrative, which brings to light lesser-known aspects of 17th-century Scotland. The book is well-crafted, offering a unique blend of historical detail and engaging storytelling. The story of Colonel James Stansfield and his textile enterprise is particularly noteworthy, providing a fresh perspective on the period. While it may not be as deeply immersive as some other historical novels, it still offers a satisfying and informative read for those interested in Scottish history.

Quick quotes

    This enterprise grew and achieved nationwide importance.

    But it also produced dramatic consequences and unforeseen developments for the trio.

    The fascinating 17th century tale of Colonel James Stanfield, Roundhead officer and founder of the Haddington textile industry.

Goodreads · 2025-12-05
fascinating 4.00

The book provides a fascinating tale of Colonel James Stansfield and his significant contributions to the Haddington textile industry. The narrative is rich in historical detail and offers a unique perspective on 17th-century Scotland.

Goodreads users highlight the fascinating narrative of 'Triple Alliance', which delves into the life of Colonel James Stansfield, a Roundhead officer and founder of the Haddington textile industry. The book is praised for its rich historical detail and the unique perspective it offers on 17th-century Scotland. The story of Stansfield's textile enterprise and its dramatic consequences are particularly engaging, making it a compelling read for those interested in historical fiction.

Quick quotes

    The fascinating 17th century tale of Colonel James Stansfield, Roundhead officer and founder of the Haddington textile industry.

    His textile enterprise grew and achieved nationwide importance.

    But it also produced dramatic consequences and unforeseen developments for the trio.

Amazon · David Venner · 2017-02-04
good 4.50

The book is highly readable and enjoyable, though it lacks some of the depth typically found in Nigel Tranter's works. The historical detail is engaging and well-researched.

David Venner praises 'Triple Alliance' for its readability and engaging narrative, making it a quick and enjoyable read. However, he notes that it lacks some of the depth and rich detail that are characteristic of Nigel Tranter's other works. The historical context and the story of Colonel James Stansfield are well-researched and compelling, providing a fascinating glimpse into 17th-century Scotland. While it may not be as immersive as some of Tranter's other books, it still offers a satisfying and informative read for history enthusiasts.

Quick quotes

    Very readable. Slightly lacking the lymph that Nigel Tranter books usually have.

    Helpful.

    Five Stars.

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