The Last Of The Plantagenets

The Last Plantagenets is a history book which covers the period from 1377 to 1485 when civil war ravaged England, rebellious peasants marched on London and wandering preachers sowed dissent in the credulous poor. The last Plantagenet monarchs governed in violence and confusion. Kings came and went, deposed or murdered. Princes and nobles slaughtered or were slaughtered in bloody battles or private feuds. It was an era of brilliant successes, tragic reverses and wild extravagance.

The Magnificent Century, the second volume of Costain's A History of the Plantagenets, covers Henry III's long and turbulent reign, from 1216 to 1272. During his lifetime Henry was frequently unpopular, unreliable and inconsistent. Yet his reign saw spectacular advancement in the arts, sciences and theology, as well as in government. Despite all, it was truly a magnificent century. "Combines a love of the subject with factual history. . .a great story." —San Francisco Chronicle A History of the Plantagenets includes The Conquering Family, The Magnificent Century, The Three Edwards and The Last Plantagenets.

Was Richard III of Shakespeare fame an evil hunchback? Did Richard III forcibly usurp the throne of England? What part did Richard III's Queen, Anne of Warwick, play in the assumption of the throne by Richard Plantagenet? Why did Richard III have his brother, the Duke of Clarence, drowned in a vat of wine? Did Richard III kill the princes in the tower? Why did Richard III make his fatal charge at Bosworth? These are some of the questions still being asked about the last Plantagenet King, Richard III, and answered in a unique historical novel, 'Desire the Kingdom' by Paula Simonds Zabka. Richard III, whose name is synonymous with villainy as depicted by Shakespeare, is presented in a different light. Holding to high principles of loyalty, he strives to support his king as he pursues his love for Anne. While confronting betrayals, insurrections and family strife, he continually fights his conscience after taking the throne, following the death of his brother and King, Edward IV. For Richard's Queen, Anne Neville, daughter of Warwick the Kingmaker, life becomes one of survival. As she struggles in her love for Richard, she becomes caught up in the desire of others to claim the throne of England by treachery, deceit and murder in the war between the Houses of York and Lancaster.

The Last Plantagenets is a history book which covers the period from 1377 to 1485 when civil war ravaged England, rebellious peasants marched on London and wandering preachers sowed dissent in the credulous poor. The last Plantagenet monarchs governed in violence and confusion. Kings came and went, deposed or murdered. Princes and nobles slaughtered or were slaughtered in bloody battles or private feuds. It was an era of brilliant successes, tragic reverses and wild extravagance.

Experience a riveting journey through the tumultuous reigns of three Edwards who shaped the destiny of England in 'The Three Edwards' by Thomas B. Costain in this history book. Delve into a narrative spanning the years from 1272 to 1377, a period of transformation and turmoil. Witness the rise of Edward I, a visionary king who propelled England into a new era. Uncover the tragic reign of Edward II, overshadowed by personal struggles and political unrest. Finally, bask in the glory and violence of Edward III's rule, as he leads England through triumph and war. Immerse yourself in the politics, wars, and captivating dramas of this pivotal era in British history.