Book Review: ‘Out of the Shadows’ by Lesley Lawson

Last month’s challenge was to read a non-fiction book, and we received some really lovely reviews from local readers and library staff. We love hearing all about your latest reads and you can submit your own review for our blog here.

Jane from our Books, Reading & Engagement Team chose Out of the Shadows: The life of Lucy, Countess of Bedford by Lesley Lawson for her non-fiction read.

I picked up this book some while ago having met a descendant of the Harrington Family at some Latin classes I attended and have read it with great interest. It covers the latter part of Queen Elizabeth’s reign and the reign of James 1.

Lucy has an arranged marriage at the tender age of 13 years, all her pregnancies come to nought, babies either miscarrying or dying shortly after birth.

However, Lucy has a passion for gardening and being in the household of Queen Anna after a period of disgrace at end of Queen Elizabeth’s reign, became quite influential and acquainted with a great many people including John Donne. Many letters written to her and poems are included in this book helping to create the atmosphere of the time.

She herself was attractive, educated, cultured and charming, being the daughter of ambitious John and Anne Harrington born in 1580. She did however suffer financial difficulties. Her husband Edward Earl of Bedford loved his hunting and they often lived separate lives. She was indeed a remarkable woman, being an enthusiastic supporter of the arts, even knowing the playwright Ben Jonson who wrote Masques performed at Court. She came from a strong protestant background and knew the Royal Family intimately.

Anybody interested in this period of history would find this book well worth reading as it gives an insight into the lives of the day.

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The views expressed in this review are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of West Sussex Libraries.