This is an excellent book. It is intellectually outstanding in that it sustains an argument in comparative history throughout its whole length. The research is very impressive. The comparison is fruitful and appropriate. The book is capable of changing the field through its argument. It is thoroughly well-grounded and therefore convincing - Conceptually and methodologically this book is tightly organized and clearly the fruit of enormous reflection in these areas. It is a fine example of rigorous comparative methodology applied to a complex and evolving field.
Peter R. Campbell, Institut d'etudes culturelles, Guyancourt, nr. Paris Throughout [his sparkling new study the author] shows a mastery of complex theological, religious and political issues, and he has many illuminating conclusions to offer, which will give early modern historians much to ponder and reflect upon - Comparative history of this kind is a difficult genre to write successfully, but the author has found a particularly neat way to organize his text - [This] study will be recognized as one of the most important contributions to the study of early modern monarchy, and will be required reading for all historians of both England and the continent.
Hamish Scott, University of St. Andrews