The Hollow Crown: The Wars of the Roses and the Rise of the Tudors

Written by Dan Jones
Review by E.M. Powell

Following on from his enthralling story of The Plantagenets, Dan Jones completes his epic history of medieval England in this book. The crown of England changed hands violently several times over the course of the 15^th century, as the Houses of Lancaster and York tore themselves and each other apart fighting for the right to rule, before being finally replaced by the Tudors. The book could be a Who’s Who of some of the most intriguing heroes (and of course, heroines) and villains of history: Henry V, victor at Agincourt and the greatest medieval monarch; the flag-bearing Joan of Arc breaking the English siege at Orleans; that most infamous uncle, Richard III. Jones presents their stories with the pace and excitement of a thriller yet never loses sight of the political complexities of the time. It is clear that he is completely fascinated by the period and his enthusiasm for it is truly infectious. Beware when you start to read: you may not be able to put it down. Highly recommended.