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Coronation of Glory: The Story of Lady Jane Grey
Jane Grey was never allowed to forget that she was a Tudor, fifth in the royal line of succession after King Henry VIII. To Jane, this knowledge was a shadow across the peaceful days in her beloved valley home in the north of England.
The threat was a distant one until Henry died and Jane's cousin Edward took his place. People began to whisper of a match between Jane and Edward; child marriages were common, and her parents were ambitious for money and power.
When Edward become ill, Jane was thrust - at age sixteen - into the political arena, a pawn between violent and greedy men and a cruel mother would make her queen.
Set against sixteenth century court intrigues, political and social unrest, and the backdrop of the Reformation, this is tha fascinating story of a young girl's struggle to find and do the will of God, even in the face of those who would manipulate her for their own ends.
The bittersweet love story of Jane and Edward Seymour and the romance of Queen Catherine Parr and the charming Lord Thomas are just two of the many compelling subplots in this rich narrative.
Coronation of Glory is story telling at its best, clearly demonstrating that the person who has a "why" to live for can bear with almost any "how."
The threat was a distant one until Henry died and Jane's cousin Edward took his place. People began to whisper of a match between Jane and Edward; child marriages were common, and her parents were ambitious for money and power.
When Edward become ill, Jane was thrust - at age sixteen - into the political arena, a pawn between violent and greedy men and a cruel mother would make her queen.
Set against sixteenth century court intrigues, political and social unrest, and the backdrop of the Reformation, this is tha fascinating story of a young girl's struggle to find and do the will of God, even in the face of those who would manipulate her for their own ends.
The bittersweet love story of Jane and Edward Seymour and the romance of Queen Catherine Parr and the charming Lord Thomas are just two of the many compelling subplots in this rich narrative.
Coronation of Glory is story telling at its best, clearly demonstrating that the person who has a "why" to live for can bear with almost any "how."
302 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1998
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
June 16, 2014
Some people get only 15 minutes of fame. In the case of Tudor-era Queen Jane Grey, this fame is extended to nine days (in actuality, it was a bit more). Deborah Meroff tells the story of the ‘Nine Days Queen’ in, “Coronation of Glory”.
“Coronation of Glory” begins with the overdone writing tactic of starting a historical fiction story with a character looking back at his/her own life in order to tell the “true” version of events. This lack of creativity flows into a first-person narrative, thus resulting in heavy, “As you know, Bob”- style storytelling in order to explain historical context. This prevents the reader from truly experiencing the story and makes “Coronation of Glory” better suited for readers new to the topic.
Also annoying in “Coronation of Glory” is the stereotypical characterizations. The figures do not evolve and are portrayed in aggravating ways (the future-Queen Elizabeth is a complete bitch even as child [even bashing her own mother], Jane is a naive girl who always sees the best in everyone, Thomas Seymour is a pompadour, Francis Brandon is abusive, etc). All of this causes the story to be rather flat and uneventful.
Meroff’s plot is quite inconsistent as some parts read no better than a YA novel while there are a few moments with deeper thoughts and literary language worth noting. This weaves a very up-and-down storyline which is also infused with an overabundance of foreshadowing that frustrates readers familiar with the events.
One of the biggest turnoffs is Meroff’s habit of stressing familiar relations between characters such as calling Elizabeth ‘Eliza’ every two seconds and Jane addressing Thomas Seymour as her ‘guardian’ in each line. This isn’t necessary. We get it!
Looking for a positive note? “Coronation of Glory” is not overly romantic or fluffy. Granted it is dated being 35 years old and not 100% historically accurate; but it isn’t as bad as many other HF novels. The novel isn’t too exciting but at least it isn’t pure fluff which makes it decently readable.
Meroff’s work falls victim to believability. Jane Grey being best friends with Lady Margery (the mother of the Seymours)? I think not. Jane acting like a child one moment but then speaking like an articulate adult the next and then like a child again? No, not buying it. Unfortunately, this breaks reader attention and causes choppiness which Meroff certainly did not intend.
Approximately halfway, “Coronation of Glory” focuses too much on romance. Luckily, this doesn’t linger and Meroff finally creates a stimulating tale when Jane takes the throne. This is definitely the first time the novel is more than dull. The only issue is that it is portrayed exactly like every other novel on Jane Grey. However, it could be argued that other authors were influenced by Meroff as this one is almost four decades old.
The final chapters of “Coronation of Glory” are quite vivid and emotional as though Meroff waited until the end to add some plot volume. The conclusion is memorable although the epilogue is from the point of view of Jane’s maid (Ellen) and is in a completely different tone than Ellen spoke throughout the entire novel. Regardless, the meaning is clear and the lasting image is solid.
It should be noted that Meroff does not include any notes regarding the historical merits and liberties of the story (most older novels don’t). There is a bibliography, list of characters, and genealogical table but they are located at the end and can therefore be easily overlooked.
“Coronation of Glory” is sadly flat, stereotypical, and lacking any complexity of unique storytelling. On the other hand, I have read worse HF novels. This is one to not rush into reading but suggested if you must read all Jane Grey novels. Otherwise, “Coronation of Glory” is best recommended for readers new to the topic or YA readers (as the novel reads somewhat like a YA novel).
“Coronation of Glory” begins with the overdone writing tactic of starting a historical fiction story with a character looking back at his/her own life in order to tell the “true” version of events. This lack of creativity flows into a first-person narrative, thus resulting in heavy, “As you know, Bob”- style storytelling in order to explain historical context. This prevents the reader from truly experiencing the story and makes “Coronation of Glory” better suited for readers new to the topic.
Also annoying in “Coronation of Glory” is the stereotypical characterizations. The figures do not evolve and are portrayed in aggravating ways (the future-Queen Elizabeth is a complete bitch even as child [even bashing her own mother], Jane is a naive girl who always sees the best in everyone, Thomas Seymour is a pompadour, Francis Brandon is abusive, etc). All of this causes the story to be rather flat and uneventful.
Meroff’s plot is quite inconsistent as some parts read no better than a YA novel while there are a few moments with deeper thoughts and literary language worth noting. This weaves a very up-and-down storyline which is also infused with an overabundance of foreshadowing that frustrates readers familiar with the events.
One of the biggest turnoffs is Meroff’s habit of stressing familiar relations between characters such as calling Elizabeth ‘Eliza’ every two seconds and Jane addressing Thomas Seymour as her ‘guardian’ in each line. This isn’t necessary. We get it!
Looking for a positive note? “Coronation of Glory” is not overly romantic or fluffy. Granted it is dated being 35 years old and not 100% historically accurate; but it isn’t as bad as many other HF novels. The novel isn’t too exciting but at least it isn’t pure fluff which makes it decently readable.
Meroff’s work falls victim to believability. Jane Grey being best friends with Lady Margery (the mother of the Seymours)? I think not. Jane acting like a child one moment but then speaking like an articulate adult the next and then like a child again? No, not buying it. Unfortunately, this breaks reader attention and causes choppiness which Meroff certainly did not intend.
Approximately halfway, “Coronation of Glory” focuses too much on romance. Luckily, this doesn’t linger and Meroff finally creates a stimulating tale when Jane takes the throne. This is definitely the first time the novel is more than dull. The only issue is that it is portrayed exactly like every other novel on Jane Grey. However, it could be argued that other authors were influenced by Meroff as this one is almost four decades old.
The final chapters of “Coronation of Glory” are quite vivid and emotional as though Meroff waited until the end to add some plot volume. The conclusion is memorable although the epilogue is from the point of view of Jane’s maid (Ellen) and is in a completely different tone than Ellen spoke throughout the entire novel. Regardless, the meaning is clear and the lasting image is solid.
It should be noted that Meroff does not include any notes regarding the historical merits and liberties of the story (most older novels don’t). There is a bibliography, list of characters, and genealogical table but they are located at the end and can therefore be easily overlooked.
“Coronation of Glory” is sadly flat, stereotypical, and lacking any complexity of unique storytelling. On the other hand, I have read worse HF novels. This is one to not rush into reading but suggested if you must read all Jane Grey novels. Otherwise, “Coronation of Glory” is best recommended for readers new to the topic or YA readers (as the novel reads somewhat like a YA novel).
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June 19, 2024Heel interessant, over lady Jane, 5e in lijn van de troon, die onthoofd werd door de dochter van Henry VIII. Lekkere familie ;p
September 27, 2012
The book tells the story of Lady Jane Grey from about the age of 10 to her execution at 17, with all the familiar characters and events. In her brief author's note Deborah Meroff states that she believes that one cannot improve on the dramatic force of what actually occured, therefore she chose to adhere closely to the known historical facts, a sentiment I wholeheartedly agree if, and I believe she succeeded on that count. I liked that Jane wasn't cast as either the helpless victim (as is so often the case) nor the ursurping villian (as has become fashionable lately); instead, Meroff gives us a young girl at the very beginning of her adult life, with strengths and flaws like everyone else, but in a situation like no-one else. While Jane's character development was good, the same can't be said for a lot of other characters; e.g. Frances Brandon got the usual stereotypical treatment as the abusive cold-hearted mother without any redeeming features whatsoever, who only had her eye on the throne. Overall, I think it's a shame this book is long out of print; it's a good version of a story that continues to fascinate.
May 8, 2011
Good book, very interesting and I think I learned a lot about Jane Grey. It's written in first person. It's a book for more mature readers.
August 29, 2008
A fictionalized tale of the nine-day queen of England. As far as I can tell, (and I've read many actions about Lady Jane Grey) this book provides an fairly accurate representation of the character and personal life of Lady Jane, though some of the romantic elements of the story are obviously fiction. As an authority on this subject, I can recommend this book to any reader who loves history.
September 9, 2012
Bought this after I was cast as Lady Grey in a play. It's good. Family rumors say the family is decended from her (which is HIGHLY unlikely)so I became a fan of Lady Jane Grey. I would say this one is for older readers due to a spot or two. A book came out the same year I read this that I still would like to get my hands on.
February 17, 2014
Well written story based on historical facts. I loved the way Lady Jane Grey was depicted and it was very inspiring to read the account of her heroic refusal to turn from her faith in Christ. She looked steadfastly toward heaven and bravely answered her persecutors, defending her faith. Well worth reading though subject matter is not light.
April 15, 2011
S'alright. I have a touchey point with Jane Grey since I adore this poor little girl and want people to speak of her highly. I think Meroff did a fine job relaying her life, but painted the queen as a little confused towards the end. She was less victim and more wronged monarch.
August 11, 2011
As a teenager, I loved this story. In turbulant days, when men were switching religions for political profit, she would not be swayed from her belief in the Bible. Her willingness to die for her faith is a great example for young people today.
May 17, 2013
This book is absolutely amazing! I did not expect it to be so interesting, but I found myself pleasantly wrong! It has so much detail, and I love the way Meroff uses actual speeches and diary entries from Lady Jane Grey's actual journal. I must applaud this book and add it to my favorites shelf!
December 31, 2007
It was totally amazing! Her courage and faith will always astound me!
January 26, 2011
This is the girl I was named after... "Lady Jane Grey" she was the first martyr Bloody Mary killed. She died for her faith! Great book :)
September 3, 2015
2.5 stars
July 30, 2014
It was okay. Felt a bit dull at times due to the sheer amount of names, relationships, and places that I just didn't have the energy to keep up with.
June 23, 2012
Great story about Lady Jane Grey!
March 29, 2021
This was considered a biography, but read more like historical fiction. It kept you as entranced as a story would, but it was very factual. No dry facts here though. Because Lady Jane Grey was queen for such a short time, I didn't know a lot about her. But she sounds like a very strong young woman and quite a Christian. I admire her for how she did not change her belief in the Lord from Protestantism to Catholicism (as many of her older male peers did) even to save her life. So, in many ways, it seems she was a martyr as well as a political pawn.
June 17, 2024
A sympathetic portrait of the 9 Day Queen that manages to organically cover a lot of ground without feeling like info dumping - several points when Jane is confined we still get to see the bigger picture as she franticly writes and receives letters. Jane comes off as a deeply sympathetic character - but not just a passive victim - she has some real agency as she fights for her place in the world.
January 17, 2019
The marvelous, true story of 17-year-old Lady Jane Grey, a lady-in-waiting to Catherine Parr, last Queen of Henry VIII and later, Queen of England--for nine days. The world seemed turned against her but God was her firm foundation. Candace read 1/09...excellent!
November 7, 2022
Very enjoyable; not sure how much is historically accurate or just made up though.
March 17, 2017
Not necessarily remarkable, but a perfectly fine book on Jane Grey. Though some of the secondary characters were one-dimensional, I liked that the author showed Jane as loving her mother, or wanting to love her, rather than being completely at odds. I'd never read the angle with the young Edward Seymour, or seen so much emphasis on Jane's relationship with Catherine Parr, so I liked seeing both of those. A nice smooth read overall.
March 9, 2015
Jane Grey, the nine days queen. A story that many are not familiar with. In Coronation of Glory: The Story of Lady Jane Grey, Deborah Meroff beautifully and heartbreakingly paints the portrait of a young woman thrust into a position which she was not prepared for. Jane has a difficult relationship with nearly everyone around her and struggles to find her own identity in all of the chaos that surrounds her. She is forced into marriage and soon the throne of England. She is overthrown by Mary and jailed, awaiting death. Jane is an often overlooked woman in history, but she should not be; her story is one that I think should be read and discussed alongside that of Queen Mary I and Queen Elizabeth I, her cousins. I have read this book multiple times and will always go back to it. 4.5 out of 5 stars.
May 31, 2022
I really enjoyed this fictional account of Lady Jane’s life. What a story! From what I know about Lady Jane, it appears that the author did a great job of keeping this story true to reality.
There were some slower parts that we’re head to get through, but I read this as a way to learn and dive into history, not so much for entertainment, but the entertainment was still there!
I would recommend this book for ages 14+ as there are some very mild sexual references that I believe are necessary to the story due to the nature of Lady Jane’s marriage.
There were some slower parts that we’re head to get through, but I read this as a way to learn and dive into history, not so much for entertainment, but the entertainment was still there!
I would recommend this book for ages 14+ as there are some very mild sexual references that I believe are necessary to the story due to the nature of Lady Jane’s marriage.
August 8, 2020
4.5
The book was very good at staying historically accurate and there was a point where I couldn’t put it down. The ending moved a little bit too slow especially because of you pick up the book, you already know how she dies. It was nonetheless very well written and I enjoyed it.
The book was very good at staying historically accurate and there was a point where I couldn’t put it down. The ending moved a little bit too slow especially because of you pick up the book, you already know how she dies. It was nonetheless very well written and I enjoyed it.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews