An historical and folklore-based biography of King James IV, exploring the survival legends which followed the Scottish king's defeat at the battle of Flodden in 1513.
An historical and folklore-based biography of King James IV, exploring the survival legends which followed the Scottish king's defeat at the battle of Flodden in 1513.
16th century, Great britain, Royalty
The Afterlife of King James IV explores the survival stories following the Scottish king's defeat at the battle of Flodden in 1513, and how his image and legacy were used in the years that followed when he remained a shadow player in the politics of a shattered kingdom.
Keith John Coleman has written a legend-based biography of James IV that straddles the gap between history and folklore that looks at the undying king motif and otherworld myths of James IV, one of Scotland's most successful rulers.
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Rating: 4 out of 5 stars. Interesting twist on his life. Love how the author compared between the two James, James lV and James I. The comparison and differences are fascinating in the history content. Finding out things I’ve never heard of is very impressive. I recommend this book to who ever loves history.. ~ Dawn Killian (Reviewer), NetGalley
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars. ..... The aura of mystery that surrounds the figure of James IV is quite fascinating and confirms how supernatural fiction, legend, folklore and Scottish history coalesce into the Scottish everyday consciousness. Moreover, it is really interesting to see how the story of ‘the undying king’ was shaped and reshaped in the following centuries by many writers that contributed to increase the greatness of this legendary king. ~ Francesco Camodeca (Reviewer), NetGalley
Enjoyed this book. Kept me interested all the way through. Would recommend to a fellow reader. ~ Callie Briley (Educator) , NetGalley
The Afterlife of King James IV was a fascinating account of the conspiracy theories and stories that sprang up around his death at Flodden Field. I appreciated the research that the author put into this book - it kept it from being a re-telling of myths and legends and turned it into a book of substance. Prior to reading this book, I only knew of James IV as a footnote in the history of other monarchs. I am glad I had the opportunity to read this book and learn more about a truly fascinating king. ~ Kimberly O'Hara Nunez, NetGalley
Good storyline. Great, relatable characters. Interesting plot. Cannot wait to see more from this author. ~ Jemma HerBookAffair, NetGalley
Like all popular folk, people cannot accept a normal death of someone elite, and tales of James surviving the battle sprung up. Some were simply practical options while others were more heroic and magical, Arthurian almost. Clever politicians used some of these stories and theories to further their own ambitions while others used the tales as romantic ghost stories to keep the myth of James alive. Added to this, King James was a shrewd man. Politically he was an effective king and worked on several peace treaties with England plus a wise marriage to Margaret Tudor, which brought about the joining of the two countries to make the United Kingdom. He was interested in science and medicine and carried out a few experiments himself and dabbled in alchemy. During his lifetime he encouraged stories of his own powers and heroics as if laying the foundations of his own folklore. This is a fascinating book even for people who generally are not into history or historical fiction. This is the story of a legend. Highly recommended. ~ Janet Pennington, NetGalley
.......... I’m pleased I’ve read it and added to my knowledge of the life – and particularly the death – of James IV. ~ Helen Skinner, NetGalley
This book centers on a James who did stick around - until he was killed in battle at Flodden in 1513, at least (and may have hung around even longer than that, depending on what whispers you believe). It is not about his life, however, but about his afterlife, his legacy. It deals with a variety of aspects, dealing with both historical facts and legends/folklore about the dead king. Coleman explores the myths, legends, and conspiracy theories that abounded after James IV supposedly met his end in battle against the English at Flodden, as did many of his nobles. While the nobility was pretty well decimated in the rout, there was always a lingering question about whether or not James actually survived. The reaction to the news of the king's death makes sense to me - especially a king who was well-liked among his people. Not only did this traumatic event occur, once again having to battle with the English armies, but to lose your king - it would certainly have provided comfort and hope to believe that maybe, just maybe, he lived and will return. Of course, that didn't actually happen - or at least, he never returned. I appreciated that this was not simply ghost stories and far-fetched lore. There is plenty of historical fact to ground the reader, before the legends and stories make their appearance. I think that aspect is always crucial for books like this, as it makes the historical figure a much more real person, not simply someone who died so long ago that we can't even imagine them being a living person anymore. It is obvious that the author has done his research and knows his subject well, both the facts and the folklore. ~ Sarah Mueller, NetGalley
I will start this review by being completely honestly, as I always am in all my reviews. I know very little information about King James IV. The only thing I know about him is that he married King Henry VIII’s sister and I only know that information because of a book I read (by the same publisher of this book about Margaret Tudor. So I was a bit worried, when I accepted this arc, that I wouldn’t understand what was happening or that I would just spend the entire time confused. Thankfully, that was not the case with this book. The author, Keith J Coleman, made sure to give plenty of history and background information leading up the death of King James. He explained before (a little biography of King James), during (how he died) and after his death in a clear and concise manner, which helped my understanding of what happened to this unfortunate monarch.Overall, I am pleased with this book. I enjoyed learning about King James and because of this book, I will be looking at some more books about him. I am very curious about this monarch, whose death was such a mystery. If you are a fan of history (like me) or just want to dip your toes in some mystery and intrigue, then I highly recommend this book. ~ Lacy White, NetGalley
A very interesting subject, well researched and entertaining to read......... I would recommend the book for those interested in Scottish history. I learned a great deal from The Afterlife of King James IV! ~ Camille Brown , NetGalley
This is the first book I have read on this Scottish King and the history around him. This King died at the Battle of Flodden in 1513. That sentence in itself is a draw card. Anything historical I am drawn to, especially if it is based on real life. I was not entirely familiar with the Scottish history before reading this book so I was heading in with open eyes. Coleman explores the relationship between James IV and his father James III, and what James IV’s reign was like. Political to some extent and speculation of many illegitimate children, James IV did not have the best relationship with many. He did marry Margaret Tudor, the sister of Henry VIII, and had legitimate children with her. Then the fight against the Tudor's was brought to a head with his marriage arrangements. This book didn't begin with simple ghost stories of how the Scottish King, James IV, was seen after his death. We the reader were given a lot of Scotland's history at the time and after all the main characters were out as the important people in the life and the death of this King, then did we embark on the supernatural side of this book. Certainly a different way of taking the life and times of this King who died on a battlefield, and those around him in the Scottish royalty. Definitely worth reading if you have an interest in history. ~ Vanessa Dukovic, NetGalley
A original and highly entertaining read which is coherent and well-structured ~ Lou@Reader's Retreat, NetGalley
I was drawn to The Afterlife of King James IV as I very much enjoy reading about interesting history and historical figures and this sounded a little different from the norm. It explores myth and legend or what some people call folktales in relation to King James IV. He led his army into battle at what became known as the battle of Flodden in 1513 and was apparently killed, but for years after this, there was intense speculation as to whether he really did die. This is effectively the age-old depiction of indulging in conspiracy theories, something a lot of people subscribe to these days. Known as the Everlasting King due to these rapidly circulating stories Coleman explores a number of alternate theories to the official narrative and explains where some of them could've arisen from. It makes for a fascinating book full of intrigue and cements the assertion that some people who buy into conspiracy theories are looking for a way to change the narrative to comfort themselves or use them to help themselves to make sense of a tragic event. It's absolutely clear the author loves historical figures as the extensive research is evident throughout. The fact that it is part history book, part folklore makes this an original and highly entertaining read which is coherent and well-structured ~ Lou @readers_retreat, NetGalley
This is the first book I have read on this Scottish King and the history around him. This King died at the Battle of Flodden in 1513. That sentence in itself is a draw card. Anything historical I am drawn to, especially if it is based on real life. I was not entirely familiar with the Scottish history before reading this book so I was heading in with open eyes. Coleman explores the relationship between James IV and his father James III, and what James IV’s reign was like. Political to some extent and speculation of many illegitimate children, James IV did not have the best relationship with many. He did marry Margaret Tudor, the sister of Henry VIII, and had legitimate children with her. Then the fight against the Tudor's was brought to a head with his marriage arrangements. This book didn't begin with simple ghost stories of how the Scottish King, James IV, was seen after his death. We the reader were given a lot of Scotland's history at the time and after all the main characters were out as the important people in the life and the death of this King, then did we embark on the supernatural side of this book. Certainly a different way of taking the life and times of this King who died on a battlefield, and those around him in the Scottish royalty. Definitely worth reading if you have an interest in history. ~ Vanessa Dukovic, NetGalley
King James IV was the first Scottish monarch to lead his forces into battle since the 11th century, and the last king of any British nation to die in battle. But did he? Not according to legend and myth, and not when the notion of his staying alive proved politically expedient. The author provides a fascinating journey through the traditional Scottish psyche and literature through the focus on one seemingly "everlasting" king. ~ Mallory Haws , NetGalley
As a lover of all things historical (ok, most things) - I found this read to be quite entertaining. The work was very well researched and quite fascinating, to say the least. After reading this, I am very curious about Scottish history, and their love for James. The combination of the supernatural, and legend makes this the perfect read for anyone looking to escape the daily hum drum. The story of this Scottish king’s survival of the battle of Flodden proves as a stark reminder that people never change, it is well written in that it keeps the reader's attention. ~ Melanie Laing , NetGalley
Surprisingly entertaining read. I did not know much about King James or how these legends had influenced his reputation and legacy. Very easy to read and obviously well researched. ~ Jeanne Williams , NetGalley
I have to say at the outset that this was a fascinating book. You don’t have to know a lot about Scottish history to know that the handsome, accomplished and heroic King James IV was killed at the battle of Flodden Field. The absence of a clearly-identifiable body led to the growth of a plethora of stories about what had become of the king…and this book looks in detail at some of them. James was much-loved and so his subjects were perhaps reluctant to see him go which, along with the widespread beliefs of the time in the supernatural, goes some way to explaining the growth of these tales. I enjoyed it, although I found that it lost a little focus towards the end, wandering off into the highways and byways of Scottish (and other) folklore in its attempt to explain exactly how and why the stories took root when, it appears, there’s a perfectly reasonable case for the body having been taken to London. Nevertheless this is an engaging and impressively-researched book, as the vast quantities of reference indicate. ~ Jennifer Young, NetGalley
The Afterlife of King James IV: Otherworld Legends of the Scottish King was a fascinating read for me. I give it five stars. Loved it! ~ Amy Campbell , NetGalley
I have to say at the outset that this was a fascinating book. You don’t have to know a lot about Scottish history to know that the handsome, accomplished and heroic King James IV was killed at the battle of Flodden Field. The absence of a clearly-identifiable body led to the growth of a plethora of stories about what had become of the king…and this book looks in detail at some of them. James was much-loved and so his subjects were perhaps reluctant to see him go which, along with the widespread beliefs of the time in the supernatural, goes some way to explaining the growth of these tales. I enjoyed it, although I found that it lost a little focus towards the end, wandering off into the highways and byways of Scottish (and other) folklore in its attempt to explain exactly how and why the stories took root when, it appears, there’s a perfectly reasonable case for the body having been taken to London. Nevertheless this is an engaging and impressively-researched book, as the vast quantities of reference indicate. ~ Jennifer Young, NetGalley
The Afterlife of King James IV is one of the best books this spring! Chock-full of information, and amazing detail. I initially thought I was going to be reading more of a ghost story, but the history in this book had me captured by page two. From Flodden Field to England, France and beyond - the legacy of King James was a hard one to live down. The idea that he lived beyond Flodden was something that was passed around and whispered. If this was true, then why would he have not returned home? There were so many questions surrounding this, but the author delved into each one with confidence and was able to satisfactorily lay the "ghost" of James IV to rest. ~ Rebecca Hill , NetGalley
The Afterlife of King James IV should be a major discovery for people of Scottish descent who want to know more about their heritage! The author, Keith Coleman, is a native of Dundee, where some of my ancestors came from. Just one more reason for me to find interest. I was fascinated to read about the iron belt worn by James IV for Lent, making it heavier year by year. I could not imagine wearing something like that all my life to assuage my guilt over my not very popular father's death. James III does not sound like a nice guy at all. I was also unaware that Margaret Tudor, who was apparently the sister to Henry VIII, practically twisted herself into a pretzel trying to talk her husband James IV out of going to war with Britain. The reports of James IV's survival of the Battle of Flodden remind me that mankind never changes--how like our myths of Elvis and Hitler! There are so many startling tidbits that I am loath to reveal as spoilers--stop reading now if you do not want to know, although there are loads of these--like the nude corpse of James III being paraded around Leicester, that no one will come away from this book unenchanted or without ripe and juicy dining table anecdotes. Very hard to put this book down! I want a physical copy of The Afterlife of King James IV now. ~ Julia Simpson-Urrutia, NetGalley
I would like to thank the publisher, Chronos Books, for sending me this ARC. I will admit that at first, I wasn’t sure that I was going to like this one. Keith’s writing starting out was a bit slow. It read more like a scholarly piece than the easy writing that I have come to expect from Chronos Books. I kept on going and it did get better. I really do think that this is one of those books that you are gong to have to give time to. It is a very well written and researched book, but this may not be the one to start on if you are looking into Stuart Scotland. This book kind of straddles between history and folklore. We do actually get the best of both worlds in this one. On the one hand, Keith is looking at the historical background and figure of King James IV, then he turns around and adds in some folklore about the king’s death. Again, this is why I don’t recommend you start out reading this book if you are new to Stuart Scotland. What Keith does he cleverly weavers in both of these elements with support to make us get the whole picture of what could have happened to James IV after his death. We also get some of the lead up to his death; again, this is why I don’t recommend this to newbies because if you don’t have an understanding of what was going on in this time period, then you are going to be lost. What I really liked was the different layers of the story. It’s kind of a ghost story, but it’s not. I mean, this is nonfiction with just a little bit of a twist. I like how complex the book was, even though it’s really not that long. I really have never read a nonfiction book like this; I’ve read nonfiction books with layers before, but this one is different. I don’t know, but I just really like mixing the known with the unknown and having the information to support his theories. Okay, that is the main thing here. I have read a number of articles and books that are supposed to be arguing something, but end up losing that point throughout the book. This one doesn’t. Keith uses information to form his point and explores all angles. Keith’s voice is there, but it’s not too much-like some other books that I have read. It’s just enough to see what Keith is trying to prove, but, yet, sticking to the story. Overall, not a bad read. It did take me a little bit to get into it, but it was worth it. This book comes out on April 26, 2019. If you want to check it out for yourself, then hop onto Netgalley and make a request…At least, I think it’s on Netgalley…Don’t hold me to that…. ~ Alyson Serena Willow Stone, Netgalley
I enjoyed reading this. It was informational without being boring and didn't give me that sense of "yeah right," that so many books having to do with the supernatural tend to give me. This is a well-written and interesting book that clearly shows the author's depth of knowledge about his subject matter and his interest in his chosen era. ~ Ionia Froment, GoodReads
The Afterlife of King James IV explores the survival stories following the Scottish king's defeat at the battle of Flodden in 1513, and how his image and legacy were used in the years that followed when he remained a shadow player in the politics of a shattered kingdom. Keith John Coleman has written a legend-based biography of James IV that straddles the gap between history and folklore that looks at the undying king motif and otherworld myths of James IV, one of Scotland's most successful rulers. This enjoyable read taught this history lover a lot about Scotland and James IV. It is expertly researched and well written and a great way to spend a cold day inside being glad that you have a fire or central heating and there being NO BAGPIPES playing in the background. (Yes, they make my head spin: I had to hide in the car during both my brother's wedding and then my niece's brigade out of the church 30 years later!) As always, I try to find a reason to not rate with stars as I love emojis (outside of Instagram and Twitter) so let's give it [5/5 beer emojis] ~ Janet Pole, NetGalley
