The Six Loves of James I

By: Gareth Russell

Narrated by: Gareth Russell

Named a Best Book of the Year by Library Journal and Daily Mail (London)

A groundbreaking and insightful exploration of King James I, enigmatic successor to Queen Elizabeth I, from the “meticulous researcher” (The Wall Street Journal) and author of the “enjoyable and readable” (Philippa Gregory, #1 New York Times bestselling author) The Palace.

From the assassination of his father to the explosive political and personal intrigues of his reign, this fresh biography reveals as never before the passions that drove King James I.

Gareth Russell’s “rollicking, gossipy” (Dan Jones, author of The Plantagenets), and scholarly voice invites us into James’s world, revealing a monarch whose reign was defined by both his public power and personal vulnerabilities. For too long, historians have shied away from or condemned the exploration of his sexuality. Now, Russell offers a candid narrative that not only reveals James’s relationships with five prominent men but also challenges the historical standards applied to the examination of royal intimacies.

This biography stands as a significant contribution to the understanding of royal history, illuminating the personal experiences that shaped James’s political decisions and his philosophical views on masculinity and sexuality.

Critic reviews

"Belfast-born Gareth Russell’s rich accent adds ambiance to this engaging biography of Scotland’s James VI and England’s James I. Despite the suggestive title, Russell’s well-researched narrative covers all aspects of James’ life and his place among the Stuart rulers who preceded and followed him. James’ private inclinations have been known for centuries, and a significant feature here is Russell’s balance and restraint. James’ belief in witches counts against him more than his errant sex life, and his faults are outweighed by his devotion to his family and to the business of the state. James sponsored Shakespeare and the English Bible and—for better or worse—the foundations of an ocean empire. Russell, an amiable, unpretentious narrator, tells James’ story with ease and insight."

Accessible, entertaining history

Like other books by Gareth Russell, this is a deep dive into the specifics of the past that never loses track of the human, and sometimes even humorous, side to history. I’ve read lots of Tudor histories, but until now never found myself drawn to the Stuarts. This book engages me though, especially through the “structure” of the six loves, which helped organize King James’ life story and allowed me to appreciate the connections between James’ character (sometimes intellectual, sometimes fearful and superstitious) and the wider events of the early 17th century. I hope the author reads more of his own books in the future, he is a pleasure to listen to.

Engrossing

The narration is perfect and engaging. I can't stop listening long enough to do the other work I need to do. The research is meticulous and the story is compassionately told. Excellent book; I highly recommend it