Edward II

The Unconventional King

By: Kathryn Warner

Narrated by: Danielle Cohen

He is one of the most reviled English kings in history. He drove his kingdom to the brink of civil war a dozen times in less than twenty years. He allowed his male lovers to rule the kingdom. He led a great army to the most ignominious military defeat in English history. His wife took a lover and invaded his kingdom, and he ended his reign wandering around Wales with a handful of followers, pursued by an army. He was the first king of England forced to abdicate his throne. Popular legend has it that he died screaming impaled on a red-hot poker, but in fact the time and place of his death are shrouded in mystery. His life reads like an Elizabethan tragedy, full of passionate doomed love, bloody revenge, jealousy, hatred, vindictiveness, and obsession. He was Edward II, and this book tells his story. Using almost exclusively fourteenth-century sources and Edward's own letters and speeches wherever possible, Kathryn Warner strips away the myths which have been created about him over the centuries, and provides a far more accurate and vivid picture of him than has previously been seen.

©2014 Kathryn Warner (P)2023 Tantor

Good book! I enjoyed the facts behind Edward II and the story behind him that was going on. Nicely performed as well!

There was nothing I disliked in this book. I would recommend the reading of this book to all those who enjoy English history.

Fascinating Listen

The author did a great job laying out the facts behind the mystery surrounding Edward’s death. Highly recommended read.

Excellent

Great narration and a well researched, thoughtful study of a man behind a kingship. Highly recommended for anyone interested in the period.

i loved it!!!

one of the best books i ever read! the book is to the point and written withuot unnecessary details. highly recomended for englend monarchy fans.

Good description of a flawed King

The book is scholarly and well researched. My only disagreement is the account of Edward’s murder and death. The author speculates that Edward lived on in a monastery after he was deposed. I think it is clear he was murdered by Roger Mortimer.