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Wolf Hall Companion
An accessible but hugely authoritative companion to the bestselling Wolf Hall trilogy by Hilary Mantel.
What is the true story behind the blockbuster Wolf Hall trilogy—and of Thomas Cromwell, its principal protagonist? This companion guide concisely illuminates both Cromwell’s life and Tudor history, covering the books’ key court and political characters. It looks at everyone from Cromwell to Anne Boleyn, Thomas Cranmer to Jane Seymour, Henry VIII to Thomas Howard, and Cardinal Wolsey to Richard Fox, as well as the most significant sites, including Hampton Court, Cromwell's home Austin Friars, and of course Wolf Hall.
Along with the full history of these people and places, there’s insight into Hilary Mantel's individual interpretation. Family trees, plans of Tower of London, and beautiful woodcut portraits accompany the text, along with incisive features on various aspects of Tudor society, from the structure of government and royal hunting to the rules of courtly love and Tudor executions. This beautiful and insightful book enriches the reading of Mantel’s work.
What is the true story behind the blockbuster Wolf Hall trilogy—and of Thomas Cromwell, its principal protagonist? This companion guide concisely illuminates both Cromwell’s life and Tudor history, covering the books’ key court and political characters. It looks at everyone from Cromwell to Anne Boleyn, Thomas Cranmer to Jane Seymour, Henry VIII to Thomas Howard, and Cardinal Wolsey to Richard Fox, as well as the most significant sites, including Hampton Court, Cromwell's home Austin Friars, and of course Wolf Hall.
Along with the full history of these people and places, there’s insight into Hilary Mantel's individual interpretation. Family trees, plans of Tower of London, and beautiful woodcut portraits accompany the text, along with incisive features on various aspects of Tudor society, from the structure of government and royal hunting to the rules of courtly love and Tudor executions. This beautiful and insightful book enriches the reading of Mantel’s work.
160 pages, Hardcover
Published October 6, 2020
58 people are currently reading
332 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Mackay
4 books38 followersDr Lauren Mackay is an historian of Early Modern Europe, specialising in Tudor history. Originally from Sydney, Australia. Lauren spent over five years researching the life of Imperial Ambassador, Eustace Chapuys, who for 18 years was the most important source of the Tudor period, resulting in her debut book, Inside the Tudor Court: Henry VIII and His Six Wives Through the Eyes of the Spanish Ambassador.
Her second book, Among The Wolves of Court: the Untold Story of Thomas and George Boleyn, is the first scholarly biography of Thomas and George Boleyn.She is a regular contributor to BBC History and a lively and engaging voice on Tudor history.
Her second book, Among The Wolves of Court: the Untold Story of Thomas and George Boleyn, is the first scholarly biography of Thomas and George Boleyn.She is a regular contributor to BBC History and a lively and engaging voice on Tudor history.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
September 16, 2020
This companion to the "Wolf Hall" trilogy, a publishing juggernaut, is a gem. Dr Mackay, whose previous published works include biographies of Eustace Chapuys and Thomas Boleyn, weaves in and out of Mantel's Tudor-inspired novels. Rather than a dry discussion, it is well written, lively, and thoughtful. I also loved the accompanying illustrations, vaguely in the style of modernised early modern woodcuts.
Mackay manages well the tricky task of balancing her critiques on the novels' much-vaunted accuracy with her respect for their beautiful prose. So convincing was Mantel's gorgeous writing that historians are now routinely confronted with the question, indeed the assumption, the novel's storyline that Thomas Cromwell sentimentally chose the men to frame as Anne Boleyn's lovers because they had participated in a mean-spirited masque mocking his mentor Cardinal Wolsey a few years earlier. (That, as is a novel's right, is a complete fiction; Henry Norris, identified as one of the Wolsey-mockers in the novel was, in reality, one of the few courtiers to go out of his way to show the Cardinal some kindness after he fell.) Going through a companion piece which constantly harps on with, "Well, actually, what happened was..." would be a depressing enough task for any reader and Mackay avoids it. Given that she completed her PhD on the Boleyn men, she is refreshingly magnanimous about the trilogy's depressingly one-note characterisation of the Boleyns, particularly Thomas's son, George, who emerges from the "Wolf Hall" novels as a demented, unlikeable, talentless idiot, somewhere between the monstrous and the moronic. (Anne, it has to be said, fares little better, but perhaps that's to be expected in a novel rehabilitating Cromwell, whose most nebulous action surely was how he behaved will destroying Anne in 1536.) Dr Mackay also highlights Mantel's achingly tangible portrayals of the places, everyday life, and etiquette in Thomas Cromwell's London - for me personally, Mantel's descriptions of palaces, suppers, and fireside chats have an immediacy, a realness, which takes the breath away. Dr Mackay has written a thoughtful, well-researched, respectful, moving, and intelligent companion to Hilary Mantel's beloved trilogy of novels; in the process, reminding us why "Wolf Hall" and its two sequels have become beloved by millions of readers across the world.
Mackay manages well the tricky task of balancing her critiques on the novels' much-vaunted accuracy with her respect for their beautiful prose. So convincing was Mantel's gorgeous writing that historians are now routinely confronted with the question, indeed the assumption, the novel's storyline that Thomas Cromwell sentimentally chose the men to frame as Anne Boleyn's lovers because they had participated in a mean-spirited masque mocking his mentor Cardinal Wolsey a few years earlier. (That, as is a novel's right, is a complete fiction; Henry Norris, identified as one of the Wolsey-mockers in the novel was, in reality, one of the few courtiers to go out of his way to show the Cardinal some kindness after he fell.) Going through a companion piece which constantly harps on with, "Well, actually, what happened was..." would be a depressing enough task for any reader and Mackay avoids it. Given that she completed her PhD on the Boleyn men, she is refreshingly magnanimous about the trilogy's depressingly one-note characterisation of the Boleyns, particularly Thomas's son, George, who emerges from the "Wolf Hall" novels as a demented, unlikeable, talentless idiot, somewhere between the monstrous and the moronic. (Anne, it has to be said, fares little better, but perhaps that's to be expected in a novel rehabilitating Cromwell, whose most nebulous action surely was how he behaved will destroying Anne in 1536.) Dr Mackay also highlights Mantel's achingly tangible portrayals of the places, everyday life, and etiquette in Thomas Cromwell's London - for me personally, Mantel's descriptions of palaces, suppers, and fireside chats have an immediacy, a realness, which takes the breath away. Dr Mackay has written a thoughtful, well-researched, respectful, moving, and intelligent companion to Hilary Mantel's beloved trilogy of novels; in the process, reminding us why "Wolf Hall" and its two sequels have become beloved by millions of readers across the world.
September 14, 2020
A handy vade mecum to accompany Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall trilogy. It’s definitely “history light” but nonetheless a useful reference guide, giving the historical background and the low-down on the characters, and putting everything into context. Particularly useful for anyone not already familiar with Tudor places, people and politics.
May 28, 2023
I read this directly after reading Hilary Mantel's trilogy. I was so captivated by Mantel's work that I was reluctant to leave the world of Cromwell just yet.
However, this book is disappointing. It is very light on facts and extends little beyond the novels in terms of people, places, and events. I did notice that the book has a low readership and many reviews are from people who were gifted the book by the author, yet I thought I would still give it a go. The author has referenced throughout though and it does offer the chance to follow up interesting quotes from Tudor historians. It can be used as a synopsis of the novels for a quick reminder of what occurred in the trilogy. A very basic introduction to Tudor players in Mantel's novel - two star. Just to note there are some errors in the kindle version.
However, this book is disappointing. It is very light on facts and extends little beyond the novels in terms of people, places, and events. I did notice that the book has a low readership and many reviews are from people who were gifted the book by the author, yet I thought I would still give it a go. The author has referenced throughout though and it does offer the chance to follow up interesting quotes from Tudor historians. It can be used as a synopsis of the novels for a quick reminder of what occurred in the trilogy. A very basic introduction to Tudor players in Mantel's novel - two star. Just to note there are some errors in the kindle version.
September 28, 2020
One of the most popular Tudor historical fiction series in recent memory has revolved around the enigmatic Thomas Cromwell. Of course, I am talking about the famous Wolf Hall trilogy by Dame Hilary Mantel. As many dive into this monumental series, certain questions arise. How true is Mantel’s portrayal of Cromwell and the court of Henry VIII during some of the most tumultuous times of his reign? What was life like for those who lived in privilege during Henry VIII’s reign? How did Cromwell rise to the pinnacle of power and why did he fall spectacularly? In Dr. Lauren Mackay’s third book, she takes up the monumental task of explaining to readers what is fact and what is fiction in Mantel’s series. Her book is aptly titled “Wolf Hall Companion”.
I would like to thank Batsford Books and Net Galley for allowing me the opportunity to read and review this book. I will admit that I have not yet read the Wolf Hall trilogy, but this book might have convinced me to take up the challenge and read the trilogy soon.
Mackay starts this delightful book by exploring Thomas Cromwell’s origins and what his family life was like. To uncover the truth about Cromwell’s life, Mackay relies heavily on the behemoth biography of Cromwell written by Diarmaid MacCulloch, which makes perfect sense. She also looks into the lives of those who either influenced Cromwell or were affected by Cromwell’s decisions. People like Anne Boleyn and the entire Boleyn family, Cardinal Wolsey, Katherine of Aragon, Thomas Cranmer, Anne of Cleves, and Stephen Gardner just to name a few. Mackay balances how Mantel portrays these figures in her novels with the facts that we know about them and the events from numerous sources.
Mackay also tackles the aspects of the Tudor court and life that adds another layer of details for readers. Things like important holidays, how Henry VIII’s court was structured, gentlemanly activities and sports, and the Renaissance and the Reformation. It breathes new life into the Tudor dynasty and the people who lived during this time.
Mackay’s challenge is how to write a book that is just as engaging for the readers as Mantel’s trilogy while still being educational and informative while incorporating her feelings about these novels. It is not an easy task, but Mackay can take on this task and write a gorgeous companion piece, with exquisite woodcut images to follow the story of Thomas Cromwell’s life, his rise to power, and his downfall.
I found this companion book a sheer delight. A combination of being well-researched, bite-size biographies, and gorgeous woodcut illustrations make this book an absolute treat for fans of Wolf Hall and the Tudor dynasty alike. The way Mackay describes Mantel’s writing style and how she created her characters may not be the way I envision them, but that is the great thing about historical fiction. It can challenge your views about a person while still being entertaining. I wish more historical fiction series had companion books like this one. If you are a fan of Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall trilogy or if you just love learning about the Tudor dynasty from a different point of view, you need to check out Lauren Mackay’s latest masterpiece, “Wolf Hall Companion”.
I would like to thank Batsford Books and Net Galley for allowing me the opportunity to read and review this book. I will admit that I have not yet read the Wolf Hall trilogy, but this book might have convinced me to take up the challenge and read the trilogy soon.
Mackay starts this delightful book by exploring Thomas Cromwell’s origins and what his family life was like. To uncover the truth about Cromwell’s life, Mackay relies heavily on the behemoth biography of Cromwell written by Diarmaid MacCulloch, which makes perfect sense. She also looks into the lives of those who either influenced Cromwell or were affected by Cromwell’s decisions. People like Anne Boleyn and the entire Boleyn family, Cardinal Wolsey, Katherine of Aragon, Thomas Cranmer, Anne of Cleves, and Stephen Gardner just to name a few. Mackay balances how Mantel portrays these figures in her novels with the facts that we know about them and the events from numerous sources.
Mackay also tackles the aspects of the Tudor court and life that adds another layer of details for readers. Things like important holidays, how Henry VIII’s court was structured, gentlemanly activities and sports, and the Renaissance and the Reformation. It breathes new life into the Tudor dynasty and the people who lived during this time.
Mackay’s challenge is how to write a book that is just as engaging for the readers as Mantel’s trilogy while still being educational and informative while incorporating her feelings about these novels. It is not an easy task, but Mackay can take on this task and write a gorgeous companion piece, with exquisite woodcut images to follow the story of Thomas Cromwell’s life, his rise to power, and his downfall.
I found this companion book a sheer delight. A combination of being well-researched, bite-size biographies, and gorgeous woodcut illustrations make this book an absolute treat for fans of Wolf Hall and the Tudor dynasty alike. The way Mackay describes Mantel’s writing style and how she created her characters may not be the way I envision them, but that is the great thing about historical fiction. It can challenge your views about a person while still being entertaining. I wish more historical fiction series had companion books like this one. If you are a fan of Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall trilogy or if you just love learning about the Tudor dynasty from a different point of view, you need to check out Lauren Mackay’s latest masterpiece, “Wolf Hall Companion”.
September 2, 2020
160 pages
5 stars
This book works very well as a companion to Hilary Mantel's Wolf Hall series. I have read all three books and Ms. Mackay makes some very good points.
Ms. Mantel's book, while it is speculative fiction does make some very good points based on what historical data she could find. Especially Cromwell's friendship with Eustace Chapuys was useful. Chapuys wrote several letters on a daily basis. He was a great chronicler and very observant. Of the writers of the day, Chapuys may have been the most detached and reliable.
I was interested in Ms. Mackay's take on just who was responsible for Anne's downfall. Was it Henry VIII or Cromwell? It is a known fact that Anne and Cromwell's relationship deteriorated over time. She wanted to see him beheaded. Henry seemed to still be supporting Anne in early 1536. But by May, she was done.
Neither had Cromwell forgotten the identities of the men who participated in a satire about Thomas Wolsey's demise.
It appears that the major testimony against Anne may have come from her own ladies, primarily Jane, George Boleyn's wife. In the mini-series “The Tudors,” Cromwell appeared to have to drag information out of the ladies – except Jane. Mackay goes on to say that there is no real evidence to show that Jane had much to do with Anne's downfall.
Was Cromwell doing Henry's bidding? Or, were the proceedings Cromwell's own idea? Mackay's theory is that Henry and Cromwell worked in concert to rid themselves of Anne. By this time, Henry already had his eye on another woman – Jane Seymour.
This is a very well written treatise on the Wolf Hall trilogy. Ms. Mackay has done a masterful job in helping the reader to interpret and understand Hilary Mantel's three books. This book is wonderfully accessible and easy to read. I highly recommend it to everyone who has read even one of the trilogy. There is also a nice list of further reading interests for those who would like to further explore the subject.
Ms. Mackay ends the treatment of the Wolf Hall trilogy with a very true statement> “...beneath every history is indeed another history, and each one deserves to be told.”
I want to thank NetGalley and Pavilion Books/Batsford for forwarding to me this wonderfully done companion piece to read, enjoy and review.
5 stars
This book works very well as a companion to Hilary Mantel's Wolf Hall series. I have read all three books and Ms. Mackay makes some very good points.
Ms. Mantel's book, while it is speculative fiction does make some very good points based on what historical data she could find. Especially Cromwell's friendship with Eustace Chapuys was useful. Chapuys wrote several letters on a daily basis. He was a great chronicler and very observant. Of the writers of the day, Chapuys may have been the most detached and reliable.
I was interested in Ms. Mackay's take on just who was responsible for Anne's downfall. Was it Henry VIII or Cromwell? It is a known fact that Anne and Cromwell's relationship deteriorated over time. She wanted to see him beheaded. Henry seemed to still be supporting Anne in early 1536. But by May, she was done.
Neither had Cromwell forgotten the identities of the men who participated in a satire about Thomas Wolsey's demise.
It appears that the major testimony against Anne may have come from her own ladies, primarily Jane, George Boleyn's wife. In the mini-series “The Tudors,” Cromwell appeared to have to drag information out of the ladies – except Jane. Mackay goes on to say that there is no real evidence to show that Jane had much to do with Anne's downfall.
Was Cromwell doing Henry's bidding? Or, were the proceedings Cromwell's own idea? Mackay's theory is that Henry and Cromwell worked in concert to rid themselves of Anne. By this time, Henry already had his eye on another woman – Jane Seymour.
This is a very well written treatise on the Wolf Hall trilogy. Ms. Mackay has done a masterful job in helping the reader to interpret and understand Hilary Mantel's three books. This book is wonderfully accessible and easy to read. I highly recommend it to everyone who has read even one of the trilogy. There is also a nice list of further reading interests for those who would like to further explore the subject.
Ms. Mackay ends the treatment of the Wolf Hall trilogy with a very true statement> “...beneath every history is indeed another history, and each one deserves to be told.”
I want to thank NetGalley and Pavilion Books/Batsford for forwarding to me this wonderfully done companion piece to read, enjoy and review.
September 29, 2020
My thanks to Pavilion Books for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘Wolf Hall Companion’ by Lauren Mackay in exchange for an honest review.
Its subtitle ‘The People • The Places • The History’ well sums up the contents of this work. Dr. Lauren Mackay was an excellent choice to write this companion to Mantel’s trilogy as she is a historian and author specialising in Early Modern European diplomacy and has written two previous works focusing on the turbulent Court of Henry VIII.
I found this an informative and insightful book that covered the key events and players in all three books, including pointing out where Mantel exercised creative licence . After the main text there are suggestions for further reading and an index.
This is a beautifully produced edition, with a richly detailed cover and woodcut style illustrations throughout by Joanna Lisowiec. I especially liked her family trees laid out on tree branches. The Tudor one was particularly enlightening as I often get confused about the marriages and offspring of Henry’s sisters, Mary and Margaret.
Overall, an excellent companion to the Wolf Hall trilogy. A treat for fans of Mantel and anyone interested in Tudor history. It would also make an excellent gift.
Its subtitle ‘The People • The Places • The History’ well sums up the contents of this work. Dr. Lauren Mackay was an excellent choice to write this companion to Mantel’s trilogy as she is a historian and author specialising in Early Modern European diplomacy and has written two previous works focusing on the turbulent Court of Henry VIII.
I found this an informative and insightful book that covered the key events and players in all three books, including pointing out where Mantel exercised creative licence . After the main text there are suggestions for further reading and an index.
This is a beautifully produced edition, with a richly detailed cover and woodcut style illustrations throughout by Joanna Lisowiec. I especially liked her family trees laid out on tree branches. The Tudor one was particularly enlightening as I often get confused about the marriages and offspring of Henry’s sisters, Mary and Margaret.
Overall, an excellent companion to the Wolf Hall trilogy. A treat for fans of Mantel and anyone interested in Tudor history. It would also make an excellent gift.
September 15, 2020
Wolf Hall Companion
Lauren Mackay’s third book delves into the world that has been made famous through the writings of Booker Prize winner, Dame Hilary Mantel and her Wolf Hall trilogy.
The England of King Henry VIII has been a source of fascination for many people over the centuries and even more so now as the story of the rise and fall of the most famous of King Henry VIII’s courtiers has gripped us in both writing and portrayal on the small screen.
We are taken on a journey from the streets of Putney, to the continent of the Renaissance as we learn that Thomas Cromwell was more than a problem solver for his Tudor employer.
The plethora of information is written in a way that it does not overburden the reader and make them lose track of what they are actually reading about.
The inclusion of text from the trilogy is a stroke of genius as it reminds you of where exactly it appeared in the books - something I enjoyed as it made me go, “Yes, I remember that.”
In all, this book is well written and is to be considered a worthy accompaniment to Mantel’s trilogy.
Thank you to Batsford Books for forwarding me an advanced copy to review.
Lauren Mackay’s third book delves into the world that has been made famous through the writings of Booker Prize winner, Dame Hilary Mantel and her Wolf Hall trilogy.
The England of King Henry VIII has been a source of fascination for many people over the centuries and even more so now as the story of the rise and fall of the most famous of King Henry VIII’s courtiers has gripped us in both writing and portrayal on the small screen.
We are taken on a journey from the streets of Putney, to the continent of the Renaissance as we learn that Thomas Cromwell was more than a problem solver for his Tudor employer.
The plethora of information is written in a way that it does not overburden the reader and make them lose track of what they are actually reading about.
The inclusion of text from the trilogy is a stroke of genius as it reminds you of where exactly it appeared in the books - something I enjoyed as it made me go, “Yes, I remember that.”
In all, this book is well written and is to be considered a worthy accompaniment to Mantel’s trilogy.
Thank you to Batsford Books for forwarding me an advanced copy to review.
June 5, 2021
Lauren Mackay has created a very appealing companion book, to have to hand, whilst reading Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall trilogy. I love beautifully produced and packaged books – this is definitely one.
The Wolf Hall Companion is perfect for those who want to read The Mirror and the Light but do not want to reread the first two. It revisits key moments from the first two books, to bring you up to speed, if it’s a while since you read them. But it has also been wonderful to have it by my side as I’ve reread the first two books, in preparation for reading The Mirror and the Light.
Mackay fills in background details about most of the main players in the books. She discusses any changes, omissions and controversies in Mantel’s version compared to the historical record as we currently know it. In particular, as you would expect, she spends a fait bit of time on Cromwell himself, going over what various historians have recorded about him, how certain interpretations became ‘common knowledge’ or accepted as fact, to arrive, finally at Mantel’s blend of fact and fiction where ‘people, personalities, and motivations have been imagined and embellished for dramatic effect, interwoven with documentary evidence. History has provided us with the how and what, but Mantel has made her own suggestions as to why.’
Full review here - https://bronasbooks.com/2021/06/05/wo...
The Wolf Hall Companion is perfect for those who want to read The Mirror and the Light but do not want to reread the first two. It revisits key moments from the first two books, to bring you up to speed, if it’s a while since you read them. But it has also been wonderful to have it by my side as I’ve reread the first two books, in preparation for reading The Mirror and the Light.
Mackay fills in background details about most of the main players in the books. She discusses any changes, omissions and controversies in Mantel’s version compared to the historical record as we currently know it. In particular, as you would expect, she spends a fait bit of time on Cromwell himself, going over what various historians have recorded about him, how certain interpretations became ‘common knowledge’ or accepted as fact, to arrive, finally at Mantel’s blend of fact and fiction where ‘people, personalities, and motivations have been imagined and embellished for dramatic effect, interwoven with documentary evidence. History has provided us with the how and what, but Mantel has made her own suggestions as to why.’
Full review here - https://bronasbooks.com/2021/06/05/wo...
September 12, 2020
If you like Tudor history, especially controversial Henry VIII, this is the perfect book for you. I knew a lot of these stories and figures inside like Thomas Cromwell, Cardinal Wolsey, the Boleyns, and more but I read about some people I forgot about. This book discusses everyone in Henry VIII's life and why he was sometimes feared and why his court was not all rainbows and butterflies for those who lived in his castle.
Highly recommended!!!
Thanks to Netgalley, Lauren Mackay and Pavillion Books Batsford for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Available: 9/3/20
Highly recommended!!!
Thanks to Netgalley, Lauren Mackay and Pavillion Books Batsford for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Available: 9/3/20
August 31, 2020
I loved this companion to Hilary Mantel's Wolf Hall. I have read the trilogy plus all of the reviews and podcasts with the writer. I was thrilled to discover that this "companion" was written for readers/fans like me. It is a thorough and researched book that dutifully presents the people, their lives
and customs of the Tudor era. A very detailed summary of Ms. Mantel's trilogy. The characters themselves are described and referenced with respect to the novels' world. I thought it was definitely worth reading and Recommend it Tudor enthusiasts and lovers of the wolf hall trilogy.
I would like to thank Lauren MacKay, Pavilion Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this advance copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
and customs of the Tudor era. A very detailed summary of Ms. Mantel's trilogy. The characters themselves are described and referenced with respect to the novels' world. I thought it was definitely worth reading and Recommend it Tudor enthusiasts and lovers of the wolf hall trilogy.
I would like to thank Lauren MacKay, Pavilion Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this advance copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 4, 2020
I have read The Wolf Hall series and can say this is a perfect companion novel to the series. It has through research on the lives of people in the Tudor Era.
Thanks to NetGalley and Pavilion books for an early review copy in exchange for my honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley and Pavilion books for an early review copy in exchange for my honest review.
September 3, 2020
Beautifully written and full of historical insight-the perfect Companion to Mantel’s trilogy.
September 1, 2020
I loved this book. Dr Mackay clearly loves Mantel's trilogy and expertly weaves the author's prose into her concise history of the Tudor period which I can't imagine was an easy feat. This is not a biography of Cromwell or an in depth analysis of Henry VIII and his court, nor does it pretend to be. It is a detailed, beautifully written sweep of the period as it runs alongside the Wolf Hall trilogy.
September 6, 2020
Note: This book was provided at not cost by NetGalley, where this review has been posted.
The Tudors—a period in English history that is as blood-soaked and twisted as it is intriguing. Of course, I’ve watched the TV-series of the same name, and so fascinated was I that I read my share of fiction (Philippa Gregory, Alison Weir) and non-fiction about that era as well. But still, the blurb of this book kindled my interest anew. Little did I know that it is meant as a historical companion to yet another series of novels, this one written by Hilary Mantel (a trilogy the last instalment of which has been published this year; the first book, “Wolf Hall”, was also transformed into a BBC mini-series broadcast in 2015). Suffice it to say that upon reading the first paragraphs of “Wolf Hall Companion”, Mantel’s series has made it straight onto my ever-growing TBR-list.
The author of this book is Dr Lauren Mackay, a renowned young historian whose first publications already evolved around characters at Henry VIII’s court (publications I’m sure to check out, too), namely the Imperial ambassador Eustache Chapuys and the Boleyns, father and son (Thomas and George, to be more precise). In this book, she undertakes the difficult task to try to make out the historical personality of Thomas Cromwell, Henry VIII’s “infamous” chief minister after cardinal Wolsey’s death, while countercheking it with Mantel’s writings. Luckily, one doesn’t need to have read the Mantel-series to follow Dr Mackay’s book, which is very well written, rich in details and vivid descriptions. She looks quite critically at Mantel’s sympathetic take on Cromwell without ever passing jugdment herself (one of the main reasons that make me want to read Mantel’s books, by the way). Thus, although one will probably never know how Thomas Cromwell really was, what he thought and felt, the man stood before me in three dimensions, a human being with weaknesses and strong points, put into the frame of his time, his position, and his surroundings.
Never dry or dull, Dr Mackay’s book is a very good introduction into the intricacies of Henry VIII’s court at that pivotal moment when the king planned to cast aside his first wife of twenty years, Catherine of Aragon, in favour of his paramour Anne Boleyn, with all its far-reaching consequences, then the fall of Anne Boleyn, the king’s third mariage with Anne of Cleves, and finally Cromwell’s own falling out with the king and his execution. I was drawn in from the beginning and went through the book in one swift go. A very good read. My only niggle would be that the ARC I received had some issues concerning the layout (family trees a complete shambles, text passages put erroneously two pages later than expected)—I hope that the final, published ebook will be free of these annoying problems.
The Tudors—a period in English history that is as blood-soaked and twisted as it is intriguing. Of course, I’ve watched the TV-series of the same name, and so fascinated was I that I read my share of fiction (Philippa Gregory, Alison Weir) and non-fiction about that era as well. But still, the blurb of this book kindled my interest anew. Little did I know that it is meant as a historical companion to yet another series of novels, this one written by Hilary Mantel (a trilogy the last instalment of which has been published this year; the first book, “Wolf Hall”, was also transformed into a BBC mini-series broadcast in 2015). Suffice it to say that upon reading the first paragraphs of “Wolf Hall Companion”, Mantel’s series has made it straight onto my ever-growing TBR-list.
The author of this book is Dr Lauren Mackay, a renowned young historian whose first publications already evolved around characters at Henry VIII’s court (publications I’m sure to check out, too), namely the Imperial ambassador Eustache Chapuys and the Boleyns, father and son (Thomas and George, to be more precise). In this book, she undertakes the difficult task to try to make out the historical personality of Thomas Cromwell, Henry VIII’s “infamous” chief minister after cardinal Wolsey’s death, while countercheking it with Mantel’s writings. Luckily, one doesn’t need to have read the Mantel-series to follow Dr Mackay’s book, which is very well written, rich in details and vivid descriptions. She looks quite critically at Mantel’s sympathetic take on Cromwell without ever passing jugdment herself (one of the main reasons that make me want to read Mantel’s books, by the way). Thus, although one will probably never know how Thomas Cromwell really was, what he thought and felt, the man stood before me in three dimensions, a human being with weaknesses and strong points, put into the frame of his time, his position, and his surroundings.
Never dry or dull, Dr Mackay’s book is a very good introduction into the intricacies of Henry VIII’s court at that pivotal moment when the king planned to cast aside his first wife of twenty years, Catherine of Aragon, in favour of his paramour Anne Boleyn, with all its far-reaching consequences, then the fall of Anne Boleyn, the king’s third mariage with Anne of Cleves, and finally Cromwell’s own falling out with the king and his execution. I was drawn in from the beginning and went through the book in one swift go. A very good read. My only niggle would be that the ARC I received had some issues concerning the layout (family trees a complete shambles, text passages put erroneously two pages later than expected)—I hope that the final, published ebook will be free of these annoying problems.
August 29, 2020
I loved Hilary Mantel's Wolf Hall trilogy and after finishing "The Mirror & the Light" I was reluctant to leave Cromwell's world. I was reading all reviews, listening all podcasts with the writer - so I guess this "Companion" was created with readers like me in mind.
It is really thorough and detailed book, presenting the customs and people from the era, but I have to point out that it is rather a summary of the trilogy rather than a deep background. Most characters are described with references to "Mantel's Cromwell", "Mantel's More" etc. So this isn't a deep dive into 16th century, rather a pleasant journey trough the novels' world. Nonetheless, for true fans like me, it's worth reading.
Thanks to the publisher, Pavilion Books, and NetGalley for the advance copy of this book.
It is really thorough and detailed book, presenting the customs and people from the era, but I have to point out that it is rather a summary of the trilogy rather than a deep background. Most characters are described with references to "Mantel's Cromwell", "Mantel's More" etc. So this isn't a deep dive into 16th century, rather a pleasant journey trough the novels' world. Nonetheless, for true fans like me, it's worth reading.
Thanks to the publisher, Pavilion Books, and NetGalley for the advance copy of this book.
April 29, 2021
Written by historian Lauren Mackay, this short volume covers the key characters and events in Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall trilogy, comparing Mantel’s interpretation with the historical record. A fascinating read that provides a good overview which could be read before, in conjunction with, or after reading Mantel’s books.
September 6, 2022
Brilliant
October 5, 2020
Having read Mantel's trilogy and watched the TV series countless times I was very enthusiastic about this book. For those of us who love the books or even if you're just a fan of the TV show this book is the perfect companion.
The author Lauren Mackay is a historian of Early Modern Europe and the author of a couple of books delving into the life and times of the Tudor court, making her an ideal author for this book.
Although I have read the trilogy I do not think you have to in order to read and enjoy this.
The book is made up of short chapters focusing on individuals, events and places such as some of the palaces and provides a brief overview of each relevant to the trilogy.
Mackay explores the individuals, places and events and also a couple of people who don't feature in the trilogy. It was interesting to read some of the instances where Mantel has used creative license and what the true events/ circumstances were.
This is the prefect guide to the trilogy but also fantastic as a guide to the who's who of the Tudor court and the major events during the reign of Henry VIII. Mackay assesses where Mantel has woven fiction into history and where possible delivers the true events.
Quotes from the trilogy appear throughout and I found these have made me want to read and watch it all again!
Family trees are presented throughout making it clear who is who and where marriages occurred.
There are beautiful woodcut illustrations throughout including some spectacular Tudor roses, falcons and pomegranates.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and am now off to binge watch Wolf Hall!
The author Lauren Mackay is a historian of Early Modern Europe and the author of a couple of books delving into the life and times of the Tudor court, making her an ideal author for this book.
Although I have read the trilogy I do not think you have to in order to read and enjoy this.
The book is made up of short chapters focusing on individuals, events and places such as some of the palaces and provides a brief overview of each relevant to the trilogy.
Mackay explores the individuals, places and events and also a couple of people who don't feature in the trilogy. It was interesting to read some of the instances where Mantel has used creative license and what the true events/ circumstances were.
This is the prefect guide to the trilogy but also fantastic as a guide to the who's who of the Tudor court and the major events during the reign of Henry VIII. Mackay assesses where Mantel has woven fiction into history and where possible delivers the true events.
Quotes from the trilogy appear throughout and I found these have made me want to read and watch it all again!
Family trees are presented throughout making it clear who is who and where marriages occurred.
There are beautiful woodcut illustrations throughout including some spectacular Tudor roses, falcons and pomegranates.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and am now off to binge watch Wolf Hall!
October 9, 2020
I have previously read both Wolf Hall and Bring Up The Bodies, and have recently re-read Wolf Hall prior to completing the trilogy. I love this period of history and already know a fair bit about it however I was excited to see the reality compared to the fiction.
This was really well researched and explored the accuracies and artistic license that Hilary Mantel took which her trilogy.
Laura is obviously passionate about history and a fan of Mantel. Her love for the subject shines through and makes it a joy to read.
The book was set off by the family tree illustrations and Tudor style images and decorative flourishes used throughout.
Review provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
This was really well researched and explored the accuracies and artistic license that Hilary Mantel took which her trilogy.
Laura is obviously passionate about history and a fan of Mantel. Her love for the subject shines through and makes it a joy to read.
The book was set off by the family tree illustrations and Tudor style images and decorative flourishes used throughout.
Review provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
December 11, 2024
A concise and dynamic summary of Thomas Cromwell's life and time at Tudor court. Of course, since it was referencing the original Wolf Hall novels, it was tied to them to a certain degree, however this didn't stop the author from adding interesting facts about royal Tudor life in a fresh way. That being said, I would have liked to have seen a few more facts building the bulkier paragraphs of the text, with only subtle reference to the original text. In this case, maybe I should have just read a history book...
In any case, it makes for an interesting and smooth read, and I would recommend it to any fan of Wolf Hall, as well as anyone that wants to follow Cromwell's life in a succinct yet lively manner.
In any case, it makes for an interesting and smooth read, and I would recommend it to any fan of Wolf Hall, as well as anyone that wants to follow Cromwell's life in a succinct yet lively manner.
October 13, 2020
With the proliferation of books about the Tudors so comes the companion piece, the book to explain the assumptions. Here Lauren Mackay has focused her work alongside Hilary Mantel's superb fictional trilogy, Wolf Hall etc but actually this would work as a stand-alone piece as it is so comprehensive about the known historical characters and their roles. Mantel freely admits that her novel are fiction and that some dramatic licence has been taken. Here Mackay shows where there may be differences to know history.
As a guide to the society around Henry VIII this is succinct and comprehensive
As a guide to the society around Henry VIII this is succinct and comprehensive
January 24, 2023
This is a must-have if you are diving into the Wolf Hall trilogy. Mackay provides in-depth, well-researched history on the colorful cast of players that populate the Tudor Court. Here, we see those figures and the key events of the time in context. I have taken great issue with the way some of these personages have been portrayed in the series, so I greatly appreciate Mackay's efforts to redeem the women whom Mantel has given such short shrift. Written in an accessible and highly readable style, MacKay will draw you in to the true dazzling and glittery, but dangerous court of Henry VIII.
December 7, 2020
I read this as i read each of the Wolf Hall novels and they gave me great insight to an era that i new very little about. It was great (as the title says) companion to shed light on not only the fact vs fiction but to clarify certain poetically written instances in the novels that were a tad lost on me.
December 20, 2024
Excellent accompaniment to Hilary Mantels Cromwell trilogy
It is said HM took 5 years researching for her Wolf Hall novels and given the cast of hundreds in these stories, she wove the historical facts into an extraordinary story. A good side partner is this book, that covers the events and players, giving the reader a greater understanding of the books.
It is said HM took 5 years researching for her Wolf Hall novels and given the cast of hundreds in these stories, she wove the historical facts into an extraordinary story. A good side partner is this book, that covers the events and players, giving the reader a greater understanding of the books.
February 24, 2022
The print is too small, but fun if you are a history buff who likes to obsess on Hilary Mantel, Thomas Cromwell, and the history of Henry VIII, with lots of quotes from Mantel's books and how her version of things does and does not match historical documents.
October 1, 2025
I give this book a vigorous 5 stars! It was very helpful while reading Wolf Hall and super informative about the events and fines during the Cromwell reign. I found this book invaluable and may refer to it again!
November 7, 2020
A fantastic read for all Hilary Mantel fans
September 13, 2021
Great reference book to fill in any historical knowledge gaps.
September 21, 2021
An excellent guide to the politics of Henry VIII's court, with Thomas Cromwell at the center. Interesting and without the dry background so many history books drag into the story. Highly recommended.
May 7, 2022
Helpful. 1530 was a long time ago.
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