This Realm of England, Volume 2 : Book Review

"This Realm of England: Volume 2" by Lacey Baldwin Smith is a captivating historical book that delves into the complex reigns of the Tudor monarchy in England. With meticulous research and expert writing, Smith provides a detailed analysis of the political, religious, and social developments during this tumultuous period.

The book begins with Henry VIII, exploring his groundbreaking break with the Catholic Church and the establishment of the Church of England. Smith skillfully highlights the profound impact of religious upheaval on the country and its people, as well as the political implications of Henry's marriages and divorces. Moving on to Edward VI, the author continues to explore the religious turmoil and the attempts to promote Protestantism.

Smith then shifts focus to the reign of Mary I, depicting her determined efforts to restore Catholicism and the subsequent persecution of Protestants. The author presents a balanced perspective, shedding light on Mary's motivations and the challenges she faced during her short reign. Finally, the book concludes with the reign of Elizabeth I, a period characterized by religious settlement, political intrigues, and the flourishing of the English Renaissance.

Throughout the book, Smith provides rich historical context, drawing from primary sources and offering a nuanced understanding of the key figures and events. His narrative style is engaging and accessible, making this book an enjoyable read for both history enthusiasts and general readers.

In summary, "This Realm of England: Volume 2" is a captivating historical account that explores the complexities of the Tudor period. Lacey Baldwin Smith's extensive research and engaging writing style provide a thorough understanding of the political and religious developments during the reigns of Henry VIII, Edward VI, Mary I, and Elizabeth I. Whether you have a keen interest in history or simply want to learn more about this fascinating era, this book is a worthy choice.

What are readers saying?

Lacey Baldwin Smith's second volume of "This Realm of England" has garnered favorable reviews from readers. The book delves into the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, exploring the obstacles she encountered during her time as ruler.

Readers have lauded Smith for his insightful analysis and engaging writing style, finding his exploration of the historical period to be both enlightening and enjoyable. They appreciate the extensive research and meticulous attention to detail that went into the book, which allows for a deeper understanding of the political and social climate of Elizabethan England. Smith's talent for bringing historical figures to life was also recognized, adding to the book's charm and educational value.

Particular praise was given to the book's focus on the complex dynamic between Queen Elizabeth and Mary Queen of Scots, her cousin. This aspect of the book was regarded as fascinating, shedding light on the intricacies of their relationship and the impact it had on England.

The book's organizational structure was commended for its effectiveness. Smith's division of content into relevant chapters made it easy for readers to follow along and navigate the historical events, creating a coherent narrative without overwhelming readers with excessive information.

Readers valued Smith's balanced perspective, as it allowed for a comprehensive understanding of the era. By presenting different viewpoints on various topics, readers were able to form their own opinions and interpretations of the historical events and figures discussed.

ThisRealmofEnglandVol2 EnglishHistory HistoricalNonfiction