Friday, April 30, 2021

Review: Elizabeth I's Last Favourite




Elizabeth I's Last Favourite

Sarah-Beth Watkins



Robert Devereux, 2nd Earl of Essex, was to become Queen Elizabeth I's, last favorite courtier. His step-father Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, had also been a favorite of the queen. Devereux had big ambitions, and as Ms. Watkins explains, he rose to hold numerous positions, not least of which was a seat on the Privy Council. He was to become Lieutenant and Governor-General of Ireland in 1599 before falling out of favor. Up until this point, he had been able to flatter the queen, but it seems the aging monarch had had enough of his antics. His failures in Ireland and unwillingness to follow the Queen's commands were to be the last straw.

By all accounts, Devereux seems to have been a man in search of fame and glory, much of it on the battlefield, where things didn't always go his way. Whenever the queen was displeased, he seemed to have a way of flattering her or feigning sickness to win her sympathy. He also flaunted her requests and often took matters into his own hands, like when he knighted men on the battlefield against protocol. Although the queen often seemed infuriated by his actions, more often than not, she ended up turning a blind eye to his transgressions and shenanigans.

I have to say that I wasn't drawn to Devereux as a person. He seemed very egoistical and manipulative, but perhaps that was necessary to survive the intrigue and jealousies that plagued the Tudor court of the time. I did enjoy reading this account of his life and learning about the love-hate relationship he kept up for years with the aging queen. At times they reminded me of a pair of squabbling teenagers. Ms. Watkins does an excellent job of making Tudor history come alive. That is perhaps what makes this such an enjoyable and fascinating read.


Thanks to Chronos Books for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review. 

Thursday, April 22, 2021

Review: Brat: An '80s Story




Brat: An '80s Story

Andrew McCarthy


This memoir details the life and road to fame of actor Andrew McCarthy, best known for work in films such as St. Elmo's Fire and Pretty in Pink. It's a candid look at his struggles both as a student and actor. He details how he came to terms with life in the limelight, which he seemed unprepared for by the accounts in the book. He struggled with alcoholism and a tendency towards isolation which didn't help in an industry that thrives on self-promotion. I enjoyed learning about his later work, of which I was mostly unaware.

All in all, this was a fascinating look back at a time in Hollywood that focused on coming of age films. I couldn't help but wonder what some of the other actors of this period would make of McCarthy's memories and interesting account of his experience.

Thanks to Grand Central Publishing for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review. 

Tuesday, April 6, 2021

Review: Ignite Your Light

 


Ignite Your Light

Jolene Hart


Are you looking for a way to get more energy in your life? If so, Ignite Your Light has many useful tips, inspiration, and recipes to help you do just that. Jolene Hart focuses on the differences between a dim light and positive light. She will help you discern the difference between the two and, ultimately, get more positive light moving through your day. Changing your energy levels will allow you to feel better and glow from the inside out. And the best part about the process Hart describes is that you don't need a lot of money to follow her advice.


I love the fact that this book is divided into sunrise, daylight, sunset, and moonlight. I knew right away that I needed to incorporate tips and tricks the Hart presents to awaken more positive energy during sunrise, especially since that sets the foundation for the day. I found useful advice for other times of the day as well. For example, just turning off devices and relaxing with friends or family or taking a long relaxing bath at the end of the day can have positive benefits for your health and mind. Ignite Your Light is a well written, easy-to-follow guide that I will continue to consult whenever I need a little bit of inspiration.


This review was written by me for City Book Review.