Kings & Queens: The Real Lives of the English Monarchs

by Ann MacMillan, Ann MacMillan, Dan Snow (Foreword)

Historians and broadcasters Peter Snow and Ann MacMillan tell the real stories of the most powerful men and women in British history. Kings & Queens explores the lives, loves, triumphs and disasters of a monarchy that is the envy of the world. Snow and MacMillan offer a unique insight into those born to rule, whether villains or heroes – from cruel King John and warrior-king Edward III, to our own Elizabeth dutiful, discreet and the longest-reigning queen in the world. This is the story of modern civilization, through the lens of those who have ruled.

Genres: Nonfiction, Historical

320 pages, Hardcover

Published November 29, 2022

Reviews

[Pat · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really enjoyable, easy read which encompasses all the important bits of every king and queen of England plus the juicy gossip. Particularly illuminating on the pre-conquest rulers. And apparently William the Conquered was very fat but also particularly tall for the times. Stuff like that- fascinating.

[Sean Sexton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I starting reading this book while planning a trip to England. I wanted to remind myself of some of the main characters in the nearly 1,000 year history of the British Monarchy. While most of us won't remember every single monarch in the list, Snow's book does a great job of making many of the kings and queens memorable, by telling one or more stories about each ruler. The book is organized not by larger conflicts, or historical periods, but simply presents one chapter for each monarch. It's a simple way to organize things, but doesn't take anything away from the fascinating stories behind all of the kings and queens.

[Melina · Rating 4 out of 5]

A solid overview from Alfred the Great to Elizabeth II, this book is a good starting point for further reading into any monarchs who peak your interest. I particularly enjoyed the chapters on Queen Anne and Edward VII. I also appreciate the authors recommending other texts for specific periods/monarchs in a more reader friendly way than a traditional biography. If this is your thing, I would thoroughly recommend the Rex Factor podcast.