The Autobiography of Henry VIII

By: Margaret George

Narrated by: David Case

Length: 41 hrs and 18 mins

Publisher's summary

An extraordinary novel that brings into vivid focus the larger-than-life King Henry VIII, monarch of prodigious appetites for wine, women, and song. This is a readable, entertaining, tour de force that captures the essence of the 16th century, in all its drama and atmosphere. A can't-miss for listeners who delight in wonderful historical fiction perfectly rendered.

"It doth brim with lust, violence, cruelty and lively conversation...Margaret George has found a new and fresh way to tell the story." (Detroit Free Press)

©1986 Margaret George (P)1998 Books on Tape

Critic reviews

"A remarkable achievement....Magnificently researched and admirably written." (Mary Stewart)

"Her novel is a...banquet feast for most readers...astonishing. There's rousing drama, robust atmosphere, and consistently solid characterization; and finally, Margaret George's triumph is anchored in the urgent rhythm her writing attains." (Forth Worth Star Telegram)

"It doth brim with lust, violence, cruelty, and living conservation....Margaret George has found a new and fresh way to tell the story." (Detroit Free Press)

I wish Margaret George was my History Teacher!

Hats off to Margaret George on her brilliant writing - this is my third book of hers, and I've loved them all. One would believe she truly lived in that era. She did not leave King Henry without a sense of humor, either, and had me actually laughing out loud, even into the next day, while remembering his reaction upon seeing Anne of Cleves for the first time! No one but no one can compare to her when bringing these characters to life. She is remarkably talented, authentic, and undeniably gifted. Although the beginning may seem a little slow paced, once it gets going (meaning, once she has established the layout of the land, so to speak) it is a wonderful journey to take you back in time, and give you a first row seat into the lives of those who lived in the realm of obscene power and sickening wealth. This book is a lavish treat for all. Let's not forget the Narrator - he was awesome! Perfectly chosen for the part!

Did George Meet Henry??

What made the experience of listening to The Autobiography of Henry VIII the most enjoyable?

The rich detailing of everyday life and capturing the essence of living in Henry's era really made the story as fully fleshed as Henry eventually became. You felt that Margaret George had been there and had supper with Henry many times, or could have been someone in his court.

What did you like best about this story?

I loved the voice… the human (and often petty) qualities that Margaret George gave Henry.

What about David Case’s performance did you like?

I loved his performance. He could give even the feminine characters a believable quality without seeming forced or stilted.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

It did transport me back in time.

Any additional comments?

The author brought the era to life and did not rely on stereotypes from your typical school history books.

Thoroughly Enjoyed

The narrator DavidvCase brought King Henry to life in a most convincing manner. Margaret George is an amazing story teller.I looked forward to my listening time every day and was sorry when it ended.

Utterly Brilliant

This has been one the greatest books I have ever read! The audio book is spectacular! Henry the 8th is a larger then life historical person, and this is a perfect audiobook! I highly recommend it to anyone!

The Shocking Story of King Henry VIII

Honestly, I thought I knew enough about Henry VIII while reading the stories of his wives. This, well-researched, book portrays his innermost thoughts along with his story line. I’ve never heard the disgusting story of his casket before his funeral; not sure I wanted to know it.
The reader used believable voices to identify each person. Excellent job there.

Great Historic Story

Margaret George throughly researched King Henry and it shows in this book. She brings all the characters to life and the time period.

Loved every minute of it!

I absolutely loved this book. It’s 41 hours long but doesn’t seem that long because it’s so enjoyable. The narrator is amazing, and actually sells it! Great book.

One Of The Best Books/ Listens Ever!

My passion is Tudor history but for some reason I had not read this book until I listened to this audio book. WoW! That's all I can say. I was so sad when this ended. I was not sure what I thought of the narrator, David Case, at first but he has now become a favored voice. He's amazing with this book. Simply perfect. I could gush on and on - but you get the idea - I truly LOVED the book and the narrator and recommend it to anyone who loves Tudor history, history or historical fiction in general!

a masterpiece

this has become my top favorite audio book.. Highly recommended. The narration is superb and the writing is enthralling. don't miss this one-totally worth 2 credits.

Great story, diminished by the wrong narrator

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

I would recommend this audiobook to a friend, with the caveat that the reader's voice comes across as thin, high and not the way I felt Henry VIII would/should sound. His high-pitched whine, which he uses to voice the women and many servants, is a tad off-putting.

Despite that, I would still recommend it, as the story is so well done.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Autobiography of Henry VIII?

My disappointment with the reedy sound of the reader.

Would you be willing to try another one of David Case’s performances?

No.

Who was the most memorable character of The Autobiography of Henry VIII and why?

Will, as he was able to give the third person viewpoint to Henry's actions.

Any additional comments?

I wish this could be recorded with another reader with a deeper voice. Or with a male reader and a female reader; each to portray all characters of each gender.