The Autobiography of Henry VIII

By: Margaret George

Narrated by: David Case

An extraordinary novel that brings into vivid focus the larger-than-life King Henry VIII, monarch of prodigious appetites for wine, women, and song. This is a readable, entertaining, tour de force that captures the essence of the 16th century, in all its drama and atmosphere. A can't-miss for listeners who delight in wonderful historical fiction perfectly rendered.

"It doth brim with lust, violence, cruelty and lively conversation...Margaret George has found a new and fresh way to tell the story." (Detroit Free Press)

©1986 Margaret George (P)1998 Books on Tape

Critic reviews

"A remarkable achievement....Magnificently researched and admirably written." (Mary Stewart)

"Her novel is a...banquet feast for most readers...astonishing. There's rousing drama, robust atmosphere, and consistently solid characterization; and finally, Margaret George's triumph is anchored in the urgent rhythm her writing attains." (Forth Worth Star Telegram)

"It doth brim with lust, violence, cruelty, and living conservation....Margaret George has found a new and fresh way to tell the story." (Detroit Free Press)

Out of 500 audiobooks, THIS IS THE VERY BEST!!!

My favorite audiobook of all time!

This novel is the culmination of 14 years of hard work and research. It is a psychological portrayal of Henry VIII from his own perspective. This is a masterpiece that outshines every book I've yet read. I doubt I will find anything that compares.

The narrator is outstanding; the story itself is beyond my expectations. At 41 hours, I wished only that the book would not end. You will see a side Henry VIII you've never encountered.

A MUST BUY!!! Truly a classic of historical fiction! DON'T PASS THIS ONE UP!

Not a book, a wonderful experience.

When I was eleven years old I visited Worcester Cathedral. I knew that it was Church of England but I noticed a few relics denoting the Immaculate Conception. I was puzzled so asked the Guide a little more. He explained that England was formerly a Catholic country under the control of Rome prior to the reign of Henry VIII. From that day on I became seriously interested in the Plantagenets, the Tudors and the Elizabethans.
I have, over the years studied many books on Henry VIII. This novel is a dramatic version of his life from both his viewpoint and that of Will his Jester.
This author is actually a serious historian and has sourced her materials to the 'max'. I really to not feel that this volume is far off from the truth.
As for the narrator, BRAVO Sir! I cannot speak more highly.
I was never bored. Did not want it to end. I am all lined up to listen to more from this author.

The narrator is intolerable!

I was so looking forward to listening to this audio book... I am a big fan of Margaret George and was really excited to get "The Autobiography of Henry VIII".

I really tried to get use to the way the reader personified Henry VIII but it was impossible, even painful at times. I agree that he must sound like a "king" would sound, but the ridiculous intonation and punctuation of the phrases were intolerable!

What a shame!

Interesting Perspective and Lots of History

I really enjoy a nice historical fiction that entices me to start “google-ing” for more information. This author did a great job of presenting the dry historical facts in an entertaining and intriguing manner which made the motivations, from Henry VIII’s perspective, seem plausible; particularly since she did not attempt to absolve him of all guilt.

The narrator was pretty good as a “strait narrator.” He was not what I would call a “voice actor,” though. To be fair, however, this book did not lend itself to a multi-rolled vocal performance.

So interesting.. will keep your attention

Fantastic “listen “. Chapters are not exceedingly long so that makes finding a “stopping point” each time easy. Very few people have the time to listen to a 41 hour book in one sitting🤔 highly recommend.

Perfection!

The book, as hefty as the king it brings to life, is arguably Margaret George's finest book. Bringing to life Henry's reign, from the splendid promise of its beginnings to its sordid and dangerous conclusion, the lush detail makes the reader/listener feel as if we are actually there, so vivid are the descriptions. The narrator's voice conjures up a haughty richness eerily reminiscent of Peter O'Toole's Henry II from 'The Lion in Winter'; it made for an immensely enjoyable listen; Henry's larger-than-life ego simply explodes through this voice! (If you like your audiobooks read in dry monotone, skip this one!) The narration of Henry VIII is augmented by side notes written as if in the diary's margins by his court fool, and his dry, rapier-sharp wit is the perfect foil for the king's own viewpoint. This is one of my very favorite audiobooks and I heartily recommend it to any historical fiction fan who is looking for a substantial and riveting 'read'.

Interesting & entertaining presentation

Any additional comments?

I've read many books on King Henry VIII, but the concept of an autobiography was intriguing and not disappointing. The narrator's tone and inflection added greatly to the story by matching historical descriptions of the King's demeanor. Although it is a fictional book based upon historical facts, it quickly became easy to forget that and believe that King Henry VIII had actually left the manuscript for us to find after his death.

Masterpiece

This is a wonderful work narrated by a fantastic performer. It’s long but you never want it to end. It’s so rich I have read it many times and still find new things. Highly recommend.

Mesmerizing

The author (and the brilliant narrator!) wonderfully capture the many sides to Henry VIII's personality. Will's chatty notes provide a broader picture and clarity. One of the best books I have listened to yet.

Second "Listen"

Love this book. Its Henry from his point of view. The book is long so I prefer it in audio form. I love all things Tudor and this book fits the bill.