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The Lives of the Kings and Queens of England

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The Lives of the Kings and Queens of England

By: Antonia Fraser - editor
Narrated by: Wanda McCaddon
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This magnificent story of 1,000 years of English history is told through the lives and deeds of Kings and Queens, from the Normans to the Windsors. Understand how the power of the crown has changed as a result of both the character and ability of each monarch and evolving historical circumstances. Eight specialist contributors depict the whole spectrum of royal life in a succinct and fascinating way. Newly revised in 1998, this edition offers expanded coverage of the House of Windsor, including recent events that have greatly affected the Royal Family.

©1998 Antonia Fraser (P)1998 by The Audio Partners Publishing Corp. Europe Historical Medieval British History
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There are many inaccuracies. Elizabeth l was not the stepsister of Mary l, she was a half sister. Edward, son of Henry Vlll, was not born by Caesarean section. This medical procedure only appeared in medical books in 1600 and was considered dangerous until late 1900. Jane Seymour died of puerperal fever, not from post op trauma.
It’s a relatively easy listen but not to be quoted as fact.

Interesting enough but....

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Rather rushed history not surprising considering the timescale covered but spoiled by many inaccuracies such as Queen Jane having a Caesarean section.

The narration didn’t help with some bizarre pronunciations

Overall disappointing glad that it was a Plus Catalogue item so didn’t pay for it!

Whistle stop trip through history

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Wanda MaCaddon animates this story to make it both a light and critical account of the monarchy.

A very enjoyable listen!

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This was a reasonable listen, though I did wonder at some of those chosen to write sections. Shame about the narrator though; there some howlers and I thought she’d have known better. Her accents were pretty poor.

Lightweight romp through monarchs’ biographies

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Got as far as Henry VIII (no new or remotely interesting insights were shed upon this greatly overtold story) when the increasing frequency of ”Joosting” got to me.

The reader is AWFUL.

Did nobody listen to this before release?

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