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Thomas Cromwell

The untold story of Henry VIII's most faithful servant by Tracy Borman OBE, Chief Historian at Historic Royal Palaces

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Thomas Cromwell

By: Tracy Borman
Narrated by: Gareth Armstrong, Paul Mendez, Sandra Duncan
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About this listen

 A gripping and revealing audiobook that brings to life the rise, power and true character of Henry VIII's most influential servant

Known widely as Henry VIII's 'right-hand man', Cromwell has captured imaginations throughout the centuries: but who was he really? In this major new biography, leading historian Tracy Borman examines the life, loves and legacy of the man who changed the shape of England forever.

Born a lowly tavern keeper's son, Cromwell rose swiftly through the ranks to become Henry VIII's right hand man, and one of the most powerful figures in Tudor history. The architect of England's break with the Roman Catholic Church and the dissolution of the monasteries, he oversaw seismic changes in England's history. Influential in securing Henry's controversial divorce from Catherine of Aragon, many believe he was also the ruthless force behind Anne Boleyn's downfall and subsequent execution.

Although for years he has been reviled as a Machiavellian schemer who stopped at nothing in his quest for power, Thomas Cromwell was also a loving husband, father and guardian, a witty and generous host, and a loyal and devoted servant. With fresh research and new insights into Cromwell's family life, his household and his close relationships, Tracy Borman tells the true story of Henry VIII's most faithful servant.©2014 Tracy Borman Europe Great Britain Historical England Witty Royalty Tudor Divorce
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This is a very well researched and engaging account of a very impactful and complex courtier. It is also very balanced and considered, and I appreciated its reflectiveness and it’s discussion at the end of Cromwells legacy and cultural influence. It was read very well, except when there was any quoting of key persons from letters or other sources. I’m not quite sure how the voice actors concerned could have adopted such bizarre tones with straight faces. Never mind. It was weird but good

Great narrative, great narration, crap voices

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This was a great book. I enjoyed it from the opening paragraph to the conclusion. The narrator was fabulous , with a clear and engaging manner and appropriate intonation and tempo. highly recommended for English history devotees.

great book

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I had been watching "Wolf Hall" for the second time, and have found it absolutely mesmerising... This sent me off looking to read about the man himself and find out how well he was depicted in the televisation of the biographies, and I was very impressed at the comparisons, but also learning more in-depth the intricacies of his more private side as well as motivations for decisions he made or urged the King to make. Alas, while this saw his meteoric elevation to Henry VIII's most (or equal most-) trusted advisor, it was also his downfall... he just didn't know when to stop. Sadly for Henry, he soon regretted his tragic decision regarding Cromwell's fate, but Cromwell's descendant Oliver would make the family name even more famous a few generations further down the line. As a fan of Charles II, the Cromwells are not my favourite family from the past, however, this was a very impressive man and I was very sad as his ultimate fate loomed.

The King's Right Arm

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I love Tudor history and thoroughly enjoyed this book. The only downfall are the voices of the historical characters. Henry is less than Kingly, and poor Chapuys became pantomime comical and had me chuckling in parts. Didn’t remove from the book too much, but would’ve been better without.

Such an interesting read, but the voices!

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This would have been a great book to listen to. Unfortunately the narration was annoying. You don’t have to have someone pretend they are pompous for the listener to get the picture. The use of primary resources was excellent and that fact alone is what makes this book very good indeed.

Thoroughly Researched

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