Lady MacBethad Review: Is it worth buying?

I came across this book in Waterstones. At the time, there were many retellings on display. From Angelika Frankenstein to our Lady MacBethad. What drew me to this book was more the fact I was learning more about Shakespeare and Macbeth in general. So, I thought ‘why not’ buy this retelling.

Moreover, I had not heard about this retelling of Lady Macbethad’s story. Also, I was curious to the spelling of the surname. I never discovered truly why it is spelt like that, but there were many twists in this book that has made me reflect on Shakespeare’s own Macbeth. I do not wish to spoil anything, so at the very bottom of this blog post I will put a spoiler section. This will mention a part that changed my perspective of the original play.

Synopsis

In this brilliant retelling of Lady Macbethad, we are taken from her childhood to her life as Lady Mabethad. We learn her name, her parents origin, her home and her relationship with her grandmother. We then learn about her betrothal, as she is high born, and her ambition to become a great queen that she believes she is destined to be.

This re-telling is of Gruoch, a historical figure, who Shakespeare himself is said to had been inspired by when creating the character of Lady Macbeth. Schuler incorporates historical factors throughout her retelling of Gruoch’s story, which involves medieval practise and connections between the Picts and Scots.

Review

Captivating. It was quite unexpected. Schuler’s writing style is seek and moreish. It didn’t take me long to finish this retelling. I am not sure if it was my excitement to learn the origin of Lady Mabethad, or if it was the fantasy aspect that drew me in to deeply, but I truly enjoyed every moment. Ultimately, each plot development was interesting and seemed purposeful.

At times, I found Gruoch’s character immature, but in a spoilt and selfish yet pitiful way which grows up with her. It becomes her lust for power and her drive to become queen. Her lust and passion to hold on to her family origin and learn from her grandmother, to reclaim their land and become a great Queen, dominates her internal dialogue. I did want to scream at the book sometimes, to tell Gruoch she is making a wrong choice or to be kinder. This just made the character believable and well characterised.

A lot of negative events happen to Gruoch, which evokes empathy and pride as she refuses to allow hard times prevent her from achieving her goal. Her lust for power and control is what maintains the characterisation of Shakespeare’s own Lady macbeth, and perhaps even the historical figure. I cannot speak much on the true story of Gruoch, as I haven’t studied this in depth. You can find many reviews, usually negative, on the subject of historical accuracy as they pull apart historical and religious references, particularly on the Picts.

I will re-read this book. It helped form an appreciation of retellings that made me want to read more.

How did you find Gruoch? Or the retelling of Lady Macbethad?

Retellings Spoiler Below

I had not read reviews or information before purchasing the book. So, this came to me as a surprise. Gruoch had a great relationship with Macbethad, they grew up together and later ended up getting married. BUT. Twist. Before this, Gruoch was betrothed to the flirtatious and favoured Duncan. I was gob smacked. DUNCAN. Oh, how my perspective on what happens in Shakespeare’s Macbeth has been shaken and stirred.