The Wars of the Roses

The Fall of the Plantagenets and the Rise of the Tudors

De: Dan Jones

Narrado por: John Curless

The author of the New York Times best-seller The Plantagenets chronicles the next chapter in British history - the actual historical backdrop for Game of Thrones. The 15th century saw the longest and bloodiest series of civil wars in British history. The crown of England changed hands five times as two branches of the Plantagenet dynasty fought to the death for the right to rule. Now, celebrated historian Dan Jones describes how the longest reigning British royal family tore itself apart until it was finally replaced by the Tudors. Some of the greatest heroes and villains in history were thrown together in these turbulent times - from Joan of Arc and Henry V, whose victory at Agincourt and prudent rule marked the high point of the medieval English monarchy, to Richard III, who stole the throne and murdered his own nephews, the princes in the Tower. It is also a period of headstrong and resilient women - Margaret of Anjou, Elizabeth Woodville, Margaret Beaufort - who were not afraid to seize power and bend men to their will. With vivid descriptions of the battles of Towton and Bosworth, where the last Plantagenet king was slain, this is a bold and dramatic narrative history that will delight listeners who like their history with a healthy dose of bedlam, romance, and intrigue.

©2014 Daniel Jones (P)2014 Recorded Books

I'm going to listen to this again. . .

I loved "The Plantagenets" but I feel like I missed something here. It moved so much faster and I had trouble staying on top of who did what to whom. I'm sure that when I listen again, I will be able to track the skullduggery without a problem.
I enjoyed the narration more with this book and Mr. Jones story structure and vocabulary are superlative, as before.
I will update my review after I listen again, in the meantime, I think I'll listen to some fluff.

not a time in history to live in

I never can get over the ages. Can you imagine you and your children living under the circumstances that these people lived and accepted in their life. Religion destroyed many life's no matter what faith you had.

detailed history

It was very interesting, but dragged a bit a times in the telling. If you are curious about the wars of the roses, all the information is presented in here.

In depth yet easy to follow

Unlike some history books which can be difficult to follow without maps and timelines, this was pretty easy for me follow even for someone who is not familiar with British aristocracy.

Dan Jones is a must read!

Dan Jones gives a glimpse into history without his own personal spin on the facts.

Worth the listen

GOT fans, ever wonder where GRR Martin found his inspiration? Look no further than the legendary conflict featured in this work. You’ll recognize the historical embodiment of old friends. Jones’ research was fantastic and brings to life the politics and power plays that face birth to the monarchy as we essentially know it.

Great overview

Dan Jones writes wonderful historical works. The people and times seem relatable and fascinating.

And I thought my family was dysfunctional…

Extremely interesting, lots of turmoil, and never a dull moment. Those kings and queens really knew how slay the crowd, each other, and even their own kingdom. If you like history or drama or thrillers then I would recommend this one.

I loved the highlighting of the powerful queens. They get underrepresented all too often in history.

I enjoyed the whole thing. I really like hearing these biographical dramas. It helps connect with historical figures. And I really appreciate the bits about the queens exercising power sometimes independent of their husbands. I think women generally get underrepresented in historical retelling, and this was very refreshing.

Amazing history

Overwhelming detail; excellent reading difficult to tell history from fiction; recommended for those interested and food for thought in our own age.