The Young Montrose

by Nigel Tranter
The Young Montrose cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Historical Fiction
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  • ID: 6892
  • Added: 2025-12-05
  • Updated: 2025-12-05
  • ISBN: 9781444741049
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2012-08-30
  • Reviews: 3

Nigel Tranter's 'The Young Montrose' delves into the captivating yet tumultuous life of James Graham, the Marquis of Montrose. A man of great charm and steadfast loyalty, Montrose's journey is one of devotion to Charles I, marked by strategic brilliance and unwavering resolve. His story is not just one of personal triumph but also of the political and religious strife that defined his era. Through vivid dialogue and historical detail, Tranter brings to life the complexities of Montrose's character and the challenges he faced, painting a vivid picture of a nobleman caught in the whirlwind of national affairs. /n/n The novel explores Montrose's reluctant involvement in national politics, his fierce rivalry with Archibald Campbell, Marquis of Argyll, and his unwavering loyalty to the crown. Tranter's imaginative dialogue provides a voice for Scotland's heroes, making 'The Young Montrose' a compelling read for history enthusiasts and fiction lovers alike. The book is a testament to Tranter's skill in blending historical fact with engaging narrative, offering a deep dive into one of Scotland's most intriguing figures.

Reviews
Goodreads · Various · 1974-01-01
informative 3.50

Readers appreciate the detailed portrayal of James Graham's early life and the historical context provided. The story is engaging and well-researched, offering a compelling look into the character's development.

This book has really brought to life the early years of James Graham, the Marquis of Montrose. Readers have found the historical details to be both accurate and engaging, making it a great read for history enthusiasts. The character development is particularly strong, with many appreciating how the author has portrayed Graham's struggles and triumphs. The story is well-paced and keeps readers invested in the narrative. Overall, it's a well-researched and engaging historical novel that offers a unique perspective on a fascinating figure from history.

Quick quotes

    A detailed and engaging portrayal of James Graham's early life.

    The historical context provided is both accurate and compelling.

    The character development is particularly strong, making it a compelling read.

Historical Novels Review · 1974-01-01
exciting 4.00

The novel is praised for making historical events immediate and exciting. It is described as an informative and entertaining read.

This novel really brings historical events to life in a way that is both immediate and exciting. The reviewer found it to be an informative and entertaining read, highlighting the author's knack for making history accessible and engaging. The story is well-crafted, with a good balance of historical detail and narrative drive. It's a book that will appeal to both history buffs and those looking for a good story. The characters are well-developed, and the plot is engaging, making it a great choice for anyone interested in historical fiction.

Quick quotes

    Tranter's popularity lies in his knack of making historical events immediate and exciting.

    An informative, entertaining read.

    He treats history with respect.

LoveReading · 1974-01-01
brilliant 4.50

The book is celebrated for its portrayal of James Graham as a brilliant leader and strategist. It is noted for its charm and steadfastness in a bigoted age.

This book really shines in its portrayal of James Graham, the Marquis of Montrose, as a brilliant leader and strategist. The reviewer found the character to be charming and steadfast, making him a compelling figure in a bigoted age. The story is well-told, with a good balance of historical detail and narrative drive. It's a book that will appeal to both history buffs and those looking for a good story. The characters are well-developed, and the plot is engaging, making it a great choice for anyone interested in historical fiction. The author's respect for history is evident, and the story is both informative and entertaining.

Quick quotes

    A brilliant leader, a renowned strategist, a talented moderate in a bigoted age.

    James Graham, the Marquis of Montrose, is a man of great charm and steadfastness.

    The story is well-told, with a good balance of historical detail and narrative drive.

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