orionoconnell's review against another edition
4.0
Content Warnings: sexism, religion, animal cruelty, kidnapping.
A reimagined life of Mary, Queen of Scots complete with many pop culture references and a happier ending, and many, many 'Reign' references (we see you, Bash).
This book is a fun read (though parts of it might be lost on someone who is unfamiliar with popular culture references) told in the perspective of three characters: Mary, Francis and an original character, Ari. There's action and light romance and character growth, and even quite a few magical elements.
This isn't a historical account of Mary, Queen of Scots although it does incorporate a lot of her history into the story (and author notes). Fans of Reign will most likely enjoy this depiction, although Francis is a little different (and imo had the most character growth).
An enjoyable, well-paced read with a few 'stuck' moments, but ones that were moved on from quickly. Characterizations and cast were lovely - Henry and Catherine always make me laugh.
A reimagined life of Mary, Queen of Scots complete with many pop culture references and a happier ending, and many, many 'Reign' references (we see you, Bash).
This book is a fun read (though parts of it might be lost on someone who is unfamiliar with popular culture references) told in the perspective of three characters: Mary, Francis and an original character, Ari. There's action and light romance and character growth, and even quite a few magical elements.
This isn't a historical account of Mary, Queen of Scots although it does incorporate a lot of her history into the story (and author notes). Fans of Reign will most likely enjoy this depiction, although Francis is a little different (and imo had the most character growth).
An enjoyable, well-paced read with a few 'stuck' moments, but ones that were moved on from quickly. Characterizations and cast were lovely - Henry and Catherine always make me laugh.
bibliotequeish's review against another edition
3.0
I love Tudor / Stuart history, so I was skeptical before I read My Lady Jane, but I ended up enjoying it, I thought it was fun and fantastical, so I was pretty excited to read this book.
Unfortunately while I did enjoy it, I didn't think it was as good as My Lady Jane.
The writing is cutesy and borderline cheesy which is usually fine, but I couldn't get into it with this book.
I think the worries I had before reading My lady Jane influenced my enjoyment of this book.
I am so familiar with the real story, that I couldn't get into this fantastical retelling.
Unfortunately while I did enjoy it, I didn't think it was as good as My Lady Jane.
The writing is cutesy and borderline cheesy which is usually fine, but I couldn't get into it with this book.
I think the worries I had before reading My lady Jane influenced my enjoyment of this book.
I am so familiar with the real story, that I couldn't get into this fantastical retelling.
ali_cozzolino's review against another edition
I started listening to this book and as a borrowed book from my library. I soon lost interest. Which is sad and makes me feel like I’m growing ? I love Mary Queen of Scots and I loved the Lady Janies. I just didn’t feel like finishing it
seeandieread's review against another edition
3.0
My Contrary Mary is another fun read in The Lady Janies series, which has moved on to Maries. This is another fantasy retelling, much more fiction than history, about the Protestant vs Catholic reign of England focused on the life of Mary, Queen of Scots. Because of the true historical timeline, I recommend reading My Plain Jane first. There are some overlapping plot points and characters referenced from the first novel. This has been my least favorite in the series, but is still enjoyable and full of pop culture references. Readers be aware, this series is published by Harper Teen and is meant for teens/young adults.
julieabe89's review
emotional
funny
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This was hysterical. It continued the alternative history of My Lady Jane with Mary Queen of Scots. I laughed so hard so many times!
bookwife's review against another edition
5.0
I loved this book. I went into it with high expectations because I loved The Lady Janies series so much. Seriously I re-read that series every couple of months. So my expectations were super high and luckily this one lived up to those expectations!
This book follows Mary, Queen of Scots.. who happens to be a shapechanger. LOVE this twist btw. Honestly there is alot that happens and I can't really tell you any of it with out spoiling it.
If you enjoy quirky humor and retellings of history(HAHA) that aren't accurate, then pick this book up. You will not be disappointed. There is romance, humor, betrayals and friendships. It's a fun book and a quick read!
Thank you to the publisher for an early copy of the audiobook. All thoughts an opinions are my own.
This book follows Mary, Queen of Scots.. who happens to be a shapechanger. LOVE this twist btw. Honestly there is alot that happens and I can't really tell you any of it with out spoiling it.
If you enjoy quirky humor and retellings of history(HAHA) that aren't accurate, then pick this book up. You will not be disappointed. There is romance, humor, betrayals and friendships. It's a fun book and a quick read!
Thank you to the publisher for an early copy of the audiobook. All thoughts an opinions are my own.
savetris's review against another edition
4.0
finally back to the ethian world i loved in my lady jane but i still barely have any idea who is who i just don't care about european history.. anyway this book wasn't nearly as enjoyable as the first and the characters can be really frustrating!! it was still fun though, even if the humor dont hit quite the same anymore