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From Publishers Weekly
If Henry VIII had written his memoirs, what a fascinating document they might have been. Unfortunately, George's attempt to do the job for him in this massive, impressively researched first novel fails to capture either the brilliance, the cunning or the ruthlessness of the grim monarch who tore down monasteries to fill his coffers, executed two of his six wives and sacrificed friend and enemy alike for political expediency. This is a romanticized Henry, pleasure loving, sentimental and superstitious enough to blame the executions of his most faithful ministers Wolsey, Cromwell and Sir Thomas More on the "witch" Anne Boleyn. George is strongest at portraying Henry the ardent lover and frequently enraged husband, weakest at depicting Henry the warrior, navy builder and Machiavellian statesman. Her story has its moments, as when Henry first meets his unprepossessing wife-to-be, Anne of Cleves, plus touches of wit and a whole cartload of history. It is, however, hard to imagine a potentate of Henry's stamp feeling the need to justify his life, and harder still to imagine him doing so at such length or in such mild and distinctly 20th century prose. As for Will Somers, who interjects comments on his master, he's a far cry from the witty and entertaining fellow he must have been to keep his postand perhaps his head. 60,000 first printing; $60,000 ad/promo.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
From Library Journal
Henry VIII ascended the throne as a vigorous and handsome youth. The story of his long, turbulent reign is well documented, and many authors have used it as background for novels. But George takes a different tack than most in this first novel by telling Henry's story from his own perspective. We are given an intimate view of how it must have felt for Henry to grow up under the influence of a dour father and a frail, distant mother. When he becomes king we watch as his exuberant, trusting nature slowly turns sinister and cruel. Interspersed with Henry's words are comments by his fool, Will, a man who loved his master, served him faithfully, but saw clearly his failings. The author has done a brilliant job and readers will find this book enlightening as well as enjoyable. Patricia Altner, Dept. of Defense Lib., Bolling Air Force Base, Washington, D.C.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Inside This Book
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First Sentence
Yesterday some fool asked me what my first memory was, expecting me to lapse happily into sentimental childhood reminiscences, as dotty old men are supposed to enjoy doing. Read the first page
Front Cover | Copyright | Excerpt | Back Cover
Yesterday some fool asked me what my first memory was, expecting me to lapse happily into sentimental childhood reminiscences, as dotty old men are supposed to enjoy doing. Read the first page
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Most helpful customer reviews
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
An Absolute Masterpiece,
By The Mad Hatter "Seagull Books" (Prince Edward Island, Canada) - See all my reviews (TOP 500 REVIEWER)
This review is from: The Autobiography of Henry VIII: With Notes by His Fool, Will Somers (Paperback)
The research, historical value and incredible writing style of this lengthy novel are astounding. The author grabs your attention from the beginning and never lets go. So many historical novels get bogged down in a dull, boring litany but not this one. One can not help but feel as if one is a part of these ancient times, witnessing the day-to-day affairs of the characters portrayed in era where kings ruled and women and subjects obeyed. Descriminating? By today's standards, yes, but it was a way of life in those dark times. Henry VIII was indeed a man of many moods, passions and insecurities.Each of Henry's six wives are brought to life in rich, vivid colour, giving us a glimpse of what this infamous king was all about. The book leaves us with a better understanding of the times, trials and tribualtions of its day. Overall, the book is an extremely difficult one to put down and is completely mind-absorbing. Also, recommended by the same author are "The Memoires of Cleopatra", "Helen of Troy", "Mary Queen of Scots and the Isles" and "Mary, Called Magdalene."
5.0 out of 5 stars
OUTSTANDING!,
By
This review is from: The Autobiography of Henry VIII: With Notes by His Fool, Will Somers (Paperback)
This was an incredible piece of historical fiction. The author's impeccable research was evident throughout. I loved the way the author added the side notes of Henry's "fool", adding an extra depth to the work showing another person's viewpoint of the same circumstances.This was an exceptional book and I look forward to reading more from this author. Highly recommended.
5.0 out of 5 stars
The best look at Henry I've read,
By A Customer
This review is from: The Autobiography of Henry VIII: With Notes by His Fool, Will Somers (Paperback)
I read this book in under a week. It was so detailed in every aspect, I felt like I was there watching the events unfold. I've always thought of Henry VIII as a cruel beast, but after reading this I feel that maybe he is misunderstood and all too human.Tudor history is something I can't enough of and this book took me right there. I would highly recommend it to any one interested in the lives of the infamous Tudors.
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