PAST MASTER [Import] [Unknown Binding]

Nigel Tranter (Author), Val Biro dustwrapper (Illustrator)

Product Details

• Unknown Binding: 414 pages
• Publisher: Hodder and Stoughton; First Edition edition (1965)
• ASIN: B0000CMR9N
• Shipping Weight: 1.7 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4.0 out of 5 stars The Final Lesson in Statecraft, November 5, 2007

By 

Shawn Marchinek "McDonald" (Washington State, USA) - See all my reviews

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This review is from: Pastmaster (The Master in Gray Trilogy) (Paperback)

The Past Master is the final book of the Master of Gray trilogy. This was a continuance of the same story of Patrick, Master of Gray and his "statecraft" in the government of Scotland. He returns from his second exile from Scotland, this time caused by his daughter Mary Gray, mistress to Ludovich "Vicky" Stewart, Duke of Lennox. Patrick works his way back into the good graces of King James VI and starts picking off his rivals for power. He starts with Lord Maitland, the Chancellor and once he is removed he keeps the chancellor's position unfilled but retains the power for himself. He manipulates one Catholic and Protestant lords and causes the fall of the Earls of Huntly, Morton, Bothwell, Gowrie and even the Lord Gray, Patrick's father himself.

Mary and Vicky just want to be left alone but to live life in Methven with their son Johnnie yet Patrick and the King have there own plans. The King has Vicky marry Jean Campbell from Court against his will and it proves too much for Mary. Both are forced apart. Ultimately the death of Queen Elizabeth and King James ascent to the English throne teaches every one the ultimate lesson in Statecraft, especially the Master of Gray.

This book was definitely on par with the first two books. Although it doesn't go out with a bang it keeps things moving from one plot and intrigue to the next. I enjoyed a part with Vicky and Mary going into the Highlands to stop a clash between Clan Donald and the Maclean's at sea in the Isles. I really felt for Ludovich, Duke of Lennox and his want to live a simple life with his beloved Mary and son but yet he is continually forced onto the political stage. This was a wonderful Trilogy and worthy of the Tranter name.