so-soI don't really care for Ian Mortimer's writing -- I dislike it when biographies try to reproduce conversations that the biographer could not possibly vouch for -- but I do think Mortimer has some interesting insights here. I don't entirely buy his argument about a longstanding enmity between Henry and Richard II but do think Mortimer is probably onto something there even if he does get out a bit over his skis.
Halfway through this biography, Henry IV has just survived the sixth attempted coup in four years. This book makes medieval kingship seems so stressful -- constantly fighting with Parliament about money and trying to keep from being dethroned by rival nobles -- that you have to wonder why anyone wanted the crown in the first place.
pickHenry IV is one of the least documented monarchs in English history since William the Conqueror, so the author had to make a meal from thin gruel. But if your only understanding of H4 is from Shakespeare, this is an excellent way to get a fuller, truer picture.
The audiobook narrator sounded stilted and uninterested— which made for a grueling listen some days— so I would definitely recommend the print version!
Starting this in audio— Sadly, James Cameron Stewart lacks the enthusiasm of Alex Wyndham; but he nonetheless has one of those nice old-fashioned British voices.
Henry IV is the English King who basically proves, “Might equals Right” in usurping the God-ordained Richard II. Now to hear what unconventional thing the author has to say about all this!
pickI actually finished the #audiobook yesterday, but I listened to all the appendices, too, which I didn‘t finish until this morning. Henry IV of England is an enigmatic person. His legacy has been much maligned by subsequent rulers (because he had the audacity to overthrow God‘s ordained monarch). Mortimer is a thorough researcher so be prepared for A LOT of history. One major lesson is that you don‘t have anything without your good health! ⚔️ 👑😷
This is on sale on Amazon and Google books if any #shakespearereadalong peeps haven‘t had enough Henry IV. No idea if it‘s any good or not. 🤷🏻♀️
I finally have a few days off work to read. But my dog had an arthritis attack and we spent all day at the vet Friday. Then my wife was sick yesterday. Now I have a cold 🤧 So the only reading I can do is listen to this audio biography of King Henry IV of England 🏴 (pictured is Pontefract Castle where Richard II died).
Henry IV: The Righteous King | 
