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Steel Lobsters

Crown, Commonwealth, and the Last Knights in England

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Steel Lobsters

By: Myke Cole
Narrated by: Oliver Hembrough
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About this listen

Bloomsbury presents Steel Lobsters: Crown, Commonwealth, and the last knights in England by Myke Cole, read by Oliver Hembrough.

A dramatic history of the Steel Lobsters, Sir Arthur Hesilrige’s Regiment of Horse, in the English Civil War – the last fully armoured knights in England.

The 17th-century battlefield ushered in a new era, with formed musketeers and pistol-wielding cavalry gradually taking over from the knights and men-at-arms that had dominated the European battlefield. Based on a detailed study of the primary sources, Steel Lobsters tells the story of this transition through the history of the last fully armoured knights in England.

Myke Cole, an award-winning novelist, historian, and veteran, examines the life and times of Sir Arthur Hesilrige and his Regiment of Horse, known as ‘the Lobsters’ as they were encased in plate armour. Steel Lobsters covers the full history of England's last knights, from the seeds of their creation in Hesilrige’s experience as a young cavalry officer, to their final defeat at Roundway Down in July 1643, and the decision to abandon their armour. It provides lavish detail on arms, armour, and tactics, but also covers the human story of Sir Arthur Hesilrige, the men who served under him, and even those who opposed him.

The story of this amazing unit is the story of the end of super-heavy cavalry, and this book delves into how wars were fought in the 17th century, the personalities, politics, and even spiritual beliefs of the combatants, how they fought, and why they ultimately lost.

©Myke Cole (P)Bloomsbury Publishing Plc
17th Century Cavalry Europe Great Britain Military Modern England War
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Most relevant
I really recommend this book for anyone who is interested in the English Civil Wars or 17th Century history. It’s written in a way which both captures the imagination and isn’t full of historical jargon. Both historians and amateur history fans can find a lot in this book. The narrator is very clear and has a welcoming and friendly voice too, which makes it even better.

An amazing book

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