Henry VIII: King and Court

By: Alison Weir

Narrated by: Phyllida Nash

This magnificent biography of Henry VIII is set against the cultural, social and political background of his court - the most spectacular court ever seen in England - and the splendour of his many sumptuous palaces. An entertaining narrative packed with colourful description and a wealth of anecdotal evidence but also a comprehensive analytical study of the development of both monarch and court during a crucial period in English history. As well as challenging some recent theories, it offers controversial new conclusions based on contemporary evidence that has until now been overlooked. This is a triumph of historical writing which will appeal equally to the general listener and the serious historian.

©2001 Alison Weir (P)2017 Audible, Ltd

Thorough and entertaining

I love how this book focused not only on the life of Henry but also provided details about court life and the management of his households

Excellent

Would you listen to Henry VIII: King and Court again? Why?

Simply on of the best audiobooks I've enjoyed.Ms. Nash's narration alone is worth the purchase price.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Henry VIII

Which character – as performed by Phyllida Nash – was your favorite?

Ms. Nash gives life to all.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

The courage Anne Boleyn displayed as she met her death was quite moving.

Great Book - Horrid Narration

I have this book in paperback form and it's an excellent book. However, I think Phyllida Nash is a terrible narrator. She highs and lows her words. Usually, each sentence starts out high and strong but as the sentence goes on, her voice is so low, her words clipped, that I can't hear what she's saying even though my computer's volume is at 100% and iTunes volume is at 100%.

This takes away all enjoyment from this wonderful book. I've noticed that the other books written by Alison Weir have a different narrator. I'm going to return this audiobook and will buy the others.

Very disappointed!

Casual overview of courtly life under Henry VIII

The first 2/3 of this book give extraordinary detail of the structure, architecture and material elements of King Henry’s court. At about the halfway point I hoped those details would cede to more delving into the details and relationships to the key players. There is little in the way of analysis of Henry and Wolsey- and Cromwell- and Cranmer. Some interesting passages regarding the dynamic with the wives but very little depth and analysis you would hope for in a biography of this length.
Don’t get me wrong, Weir is a fabulous writer and has researched her topics extensively, but personally I feel the minutia of dinnerware and real estate holdings at the expense of historical and political analysis.

wonderful

I love most books in this genre. this was no exception. well written and accurate. I thoroughly enjoyed it

Complete and satisfactory

I love the collection of facts and history. The complexity of it all and the turns and twists of the courtiers are mesmerizing. Its a bigger picture of Henry VIII life and the tranformation of the English culture and society. Love it! Well read and very engaging.

Loved it

Exactly what i was looking for. A lot of detailed Tuor court information read by an amazing narrator.

Fascinating look into life 500 years ago.

I was totally enthralled as I listened to this detailed account of the reign of Henry the eighth. Some of the in-depth figures and information may be boring to a lot of people, but I was thrilled to see just what it took to run the monarchy of England 500 years ago. I enjoyed hearing the data and it fleshed out the European history I remember from my school days. I particularly enjoyed the glimpse of what European nobility and royalty had as their lifestyles back in those days. I plan to listen to this author’s book about Henry the eighth’s six wives, and then probably more biographical information about this fascinating man.

The revealing telling of Henry the 8th.

I thought the narration excellent in revealing this monarchs personality. I feel I have a better understanding of this great sovereign of history. Thank you!

Fantastic!

I loved this book! I have read/listened to many books on Tudor history - and especially those by Alison Weir, but this one stands out.

If you feel you are already very familiar with the life of Henry and the story of his wives this is a must. It gives a detailed glimpse into the life of his court and his private life. It’s a fascinating journey through his castles, his world and the people who surrounded him.

It’s one of those books that I wish would never end. And here it was brought to life by Phyllida Nash with her soothing voice and wonderful British accent.