Books matching: english history
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- #1
Save:A masterfully written, opinionated, and comprehensive tour of English history - brilliant for lovers of the subject, though its patriotic tone and focus on elites won’t be everyone’s cup of tea.
'The English and their History' by Robert Tombs is a comprehensive exploration of English history spanning over 2,000 years. Tombs delves into various aspects of English society, politics, and culture, highlighting significant events such as the Roman invasion, Norman Conquest, and the impact of the British Empire. The book is praised for its engaging writing style, covering a wide range of historical topics while challenging traditional myths and providing insightful commentary on English history.
E ngland had a troubled birth at a troubled time. During the fifth, sixth and seventh centuries, transforming events of human history were taking place far away: the great Chinese Empire was reunited... - #2
Save:A charming, if old-fashioned, blend of English history and fairy magic, best enjoyed by fans of classic tales and whimsical adventures, but less suited to those seeking modern sensibilities or fast-moving plots.
'Puck of Pook's Hill' by Rudyard Kipling is a delightful exploration of 1500 years of English history, narrated by various characters like Sir Richard the Norman, Hugh the Saxon, and Parnesius the Roman. The book intertwines historical events with elements of fantasy, as Puck, the oldest spirit in England, guides two children through encounters with characters from different periods of English history. Kipling's writing style combines storytelling power with beautiful poetry and vivid scenes from English history, creating a charming and educational journey through time.
‘Is it?’ said their visitor, sitting down. ‘Then what on Human Earth made you act Midsummer Night’s Dream three times over, on Midsummer Eve, in the middle of a Ring, and under—right under one of my o...1905•267 pages - #3The Birth of BritainBook 1 in the series:A History of the English Speaking Peoples
Save:An entertaining, big-hearted epic - more rousing saga than modern scholarship. Read it for the storytelling, not as a textbook. A classic for history buffs and Churchill admirers alike.
Winston Churchill's 'The Birth of Britain' is a narrative that covers a vast time span, from 55 BC with the invasion of Julius Caesar to the Battle of Bosworth and the start of the Tudor period. The book provides a clear timeline on the millennia and a half of history, intrigue, and development. It is a narrative about the formation of 20th-century British culture from Roman times to the end of the War of the Roses. The prose is very readable, giving an appreciation of key individuals without going into abundant detail. Churchill manages to identify the key contributions or failures of rulers and influencers around them, shaping these decisions and personalities into the tale of a nation.
IN THE SUMMER OF THE ROMAN YEAR 699, NOW DESCRIBED AS THE year 55 before the birth of Christ, the Proconsul of Gaul, Gaius Julius Cæsar, turned his gaze upon Britain. In the midst of his wars in Germa...January 1956•487 pages - #4
Save:A must-read for lovers of historical epics and action, though its blood-soaked realism and gritty detail mean it's not for the faint of heart. If you want a front-row seat to Viking-era England with a complex, memorable hero, jump in!
The Last Kingdom by Bernard Cornwell is a historical fiction novel set in ninth-century Britain during the Danish invasion. The story follows Uhtred, a young Saxon boy who is captured and raised by Danes, navigating the complexities of loyalty and identity. Through vivid battle scenes and detailed historical context, the book paints a picture of a tumultuous time in English history, focusing on the clash between Saxons and Danes. The narrative is driven by Uhtred's transformation from a boy to a warrior, exploring themes of destiny, loyalty, and the struggle between paganism and Christianity.
The Danes were clever that day. They had made new walls inside the city, invited our men into the streets, trapped them between the new walls, surrounded them, and killed them. They did not kill all t...2004•372 pages Gripping, well-researched, and full of intrigue - 'She-Wolves' shines a spotlight on the original queens who paved the way for England’s famous female rulers. Ideal for history lovers eager to meet the fierce women behind the throne.
'She-Wolves: The Women Who Ruled England Before Elizabeth' by Helen Castor explores the lives of four remarkable women who attempted to rule England before Queen Elizabeth I. The book delves into the struggles, challenges, and achievements of Matilda, Eleanor, Isabella, and Margaret, shedding light on their roles in shaping English medieval history. Castor's writing style is engaging and informative, providing a detailed account of these women's lives within the social and political contexts of their time periods.
The boy in the bed was just fifteen years old. He had been handsome, perhaps even recently; but now his face was swollen and disfigured by disease, and by the treatments his doctors had prescribed in...2010•503 pages- #6
Save:A gorgeously written, slow-burning deep dive into the mind of Thomas Cromwell - challenging but rewarding. Perfect for thoughtful readers who love sumptuous character studies and Tudor intrigue.
'Wolf Hall' by Hilary Mantel is a dense and satisfying novel that brings to life the character of Thomas Cromwell amidst the fall of Wolsey and the rise of the Boleyns. The book delves deep into personal and political world-building, exploring mythologies of the Reformation and the complexities of 16th-century England. Mantel expertly crafts a meticulously researched story surrounding Cromwell, portraying him with care and attention to detail.
Felled, dazed, silent, he has fallen; knocked full length on the cobbles of the yard. His head turns sideways; his eyes are turned towards the gate, as if someone might arrive to help him out. One blo...October 2009•520 pages - #7
Save:An engaging, classic account of the final Plantagenet kings - perfect for fans of narrative history and anyone who wants to fall in love with England’s medieval past. Just be ready for lots of Richards and Henrys!
'The Last Plantagenets' by Thomas B. Costain is a detailed account of the final years of the Plantagenet dynasty, covering the reigns from Richard II to Richard III. The book delves into the complex web of intrigue, plotting, and power struggles within the Houses of York and Lancaster, ultimately leading to the rise of the House of Tudor. Costain's writing style is described as engaging and captivating, making historical events thoroughly interesting while providing insights into the characters that shaped this tumultuous period in English history.
Costain's narrative skillfully navigates through the lives of key figures such as Henry IV, Henry V, Henry VI, Edward IV, and Richard III, offering a comprehensive exploration of their roles in the downfall of the Plantagenet dynasty. The author's attention to detail and historical accuracy, coupled with his ability to present complex historical events in a readable and accessible manner, make this book a valuable addition to understanding the political and social dynamics of medieval England.
A Prince Is Born 1 A PRINCE was born to the royal line of England on January 6, 1367, in the abbey of St. André at Bordeaux and given the name of Richard. His mother, who had been a widow when she daz...1962•543 pages - #8
Save:An addictive, high-stakes historical epic packed with memorable characters and relentless drama - if you like big, bold stories and don’t mind some darkness, you’ll be hooked.
'The Pillars of the Earth' by Ken Follett is a historical novel set in medieval England, following the lives of various characters intertwined through the construction of a cathedral in the town of Kingsbridge. The narrative spans over decades, exploring themes of ambition, power, politics, love, and betrayal during the 12th century. The book delves into the challenges faced by individuals from different social backgrounds, including monks, nobles, and peasants, as they navigate through the turbulent times of the Middle Ages.
The storytelling in 'The Pillars of the Earth' is characterized by its epic scope, rich historical detail, and intricate character development. Readers are drawn into a world filled with vivid descriptions of life in medieval England, emphasizing the struggles and triumphs of the central characters involved in the monumental task of building a cathedral. The novel weaves together elements of suspense, drama, romance, and political intrigue, offering a captivating portrayal of a bygone era and the enduring human spirit that drives individuals to overcome obstacles in pursuit of their dreams.
The walls were already three feet high and rising fast. The two masons Tom had engaged were working steadily in the sunshine, their trowels going scrape, slap and then tap, tap while their laborer swe... - #9
Save:A lively and accessible introduction to the year that changed England forever - perfect for history buffs and curious readers alike, though those seeking deep scholarly rigor should supplement with other sources.
'1066: The Year of the Conquest' by David Howarth is a concise and engaging narrative that delves into the events of the Norman invasion of England in 1066. Howarth presents the major figures involved, such as King Harold and William of Normandy, as complex individuals caught in a web of political intrigue and military strategy. The book not only recounts the battles and conquest but also offers insights into the daily lives of people in England during this pivotal year, providing a rich tapestry of historical context.
The writing style of '1066: The Year of the Conquest' is described as clear, engaging, and novel-like, making it an enjoyable read for both history enthusiasts and casual readers. Howarth skillfully weaves together historical facts and storytelling techniques, bringing to life the events leading up to and following the Battle of Hastings. The book offers a balanced view of the Norman invasion, presenting various viewpoints and theories while maintaining a captivating narrative that keeps readers hooked till the last page.
It was not a bad life to be English when the year began; it was the kind of life that many modern people vainly envy. For the most part, it was lived in little villages, and it was almost completely s...1977•209 pages - #10
Save:A breezy, entertaining medieval mystery with a great atmosphere and sense of history - just don't expect literary fireworks or linguistic authenticity. Great for escaping to an overlooked era with a buddy-cop twist!
The King's Hounds by Martin Jensen is a historical murder mystery set in the time of Danish King Cnut's ascension to the throne of England. The novel follows Winston, a manuscript illuminator, and Halfdan, a former nobleman, as they are tasked by Cnut to solve a murder mystery within three days before a crucial meeting of nobles in Oxford. The plot is filled with political intrigue, historical context, and suspense as Winston and Halfdan navigate through various clues and suspects to uncover the truth behind the murder.
The manor was large and prosperous, making it very clear that one of the Danish victors lived here. Someone who didn’t fear his neighbors and who could afford to let anyone enter—tradesmen, wandering...2010•273 pages
