A Song Of Ice And England

By Jean C.

Tudors, by Peter Ackroyd, is the first historical non-fiction book that I can honestly recommend to other people. If you like the Tudor reign of England, read this book. If you like sarcastic authors discussing religious reform, read this book. If you like A Song Of Ice And Fire, read this book.

No, that last bit wasn’t a typo. Fans of ASoIaF will enjoy the political, religious and family drama presented in the Tudor dynasty. Henry the Eighth is a spoiled, isolated prince allowed access to near unlimited power. There’s rebellion in the north (read, Winterfell), enemies stirring across the sea (unfortunately the French don’t have dragons), and incest (do I even have to embellish that bit?). So while there’s a big genre difference between Martin’s fantasy saga and the drama of Ackroyd’s historical non-fiction, the events should appeal to similar readers. Ackroyd presents some of the most confusing events in British history with a simple language and straightforward attitude. He does not concern himself with skipping over the delicate aspects of Henry’s affairs, instead laying the facts of the king’s actions with the Boleyn sisters before the reader without bias. He admits the lack of historical evidence in proving certain facts, even as his language draws out the tension of the English court.

Simply speaking, Tudors is the book anyone should and can read. If you aren’t interested in the Tudor reign of England before reading this book, you will be after.

Tudors by Peter Ackroyd. Approx. 500 pages. St Martin’s Press.