"The Tudor Empire" by David Wildman offers a captivating and comprehensive exploration of one of the most dynamic periods in English history. Wildman skillfully navigates through the complexities of Tudor rule, spanning from the late 15th to the early 17th century, and examines how England transformed from a relatively insular nation to a burgeoning global power. Through meticulous research and engaging prose, the author delves into key events, personalities, and innovations that shaped the Tudor Empire, including the reigns of monarchs such as Henry VII, Henry VIII, and Elizabeth I. From the Tudor conquest of Ireland to the exploration of the New World, Wildman provides readers with a vivid portrait of the expansionist ambitions and imperial aspirations of the Tudor dynasty. Moreover, the book offers valuable insights into the social, economic, and cultural dynamics of Tudor England, shedding light on the experiences of ordinary people living in a time of profound change and upheaval. "The Tudor Empire" is a must-read for anyone interested in the Tudor period and its lasting impact on the course of world history. With its rich detail and engaging narrative, this book is sure to captivate both scholars and general readers alike.

NetGalley, Cecilly Scott

5 out of 5

An enjoyable read which I’m delighted to recommend

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Army Rumour Service (ARRSE)

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

What an amazing book it's well written, documented and it was literally page after page of interesting information. The Tudors are well known and loved getting to learn about how it all started. There are 20 chapters and each one breaks down a certain period and events that happened.
The desire of the monarchy to expand its reach, power and the lengths it went to do achieve that goal was clearly illustrated in its actions. If you love history and want to know more this is your book. Loved reading it.

NetGalley, Lena Andrews

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Great read! I like that this book detailed the Tudor Empire, meaning the ins and outs of where Tudor rulers' subjects explored the wide world rather than focusing on life at court and within the realm as most Tudor books do. I learned so much!

NetGalley, Lindsay Goodman

Again, another great and informative book. Pen and Sword is one of my favorite publishers to read books because I love British History, particularly the Tudor era. This book covers from the Plantagenet Inheritance to the passing of the empire to the Stuart dynasty. This is a book that I'll keep as reference for a long time.

NetGalley, Whitney Foster

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

A very informative history book about the Tudor Empire. It explained a lot and cleared what could have been misunderstood about the history. I really recommend this book if you are someone interested in the Tudor history like me.

NetGalley, Yves von Hagen

The Tudor Empire by David Wildman is an entertaining and informative book that highlights how the Tudors expanded their kingdom and the cost incurred by the dynamic historical characters that helped shape England. It highlights political alliances that changed the dynamic of the medieval playing field throughout generations and the importance of obtaining and retaining significant lands such as Calais. It covers England’s foray into North America and details the atrocities of the Prayer Book Rebellion. This book covers a lot of information and I was able to learn a lot. It’s history that reads better than fiction and Wildman did a great job making sure the content, although informative, was still entertaining.

NetGalley, Wendy Moore

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

The Tudor Empire by David Wildman was a book I enjoyed from start to finish and I love reading about Tudor times etc, not saying I would love to live then........The Tudors still remains one of Britain’s most fascinating royal dynasties and I love learning more about this time.

This book will delve into how the Tudors exerted their control over their empire and domains, stretching from the north of England, Wales, Ireland, Cornwall, all the way to European possessions, as well as fresh colonies in the New World.

This book was amazing and a joy to read from the very first page.
I loved it.

NetGalley, Nessa Thompson

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Driven by their obsession with legitimate rule, the Tudors sought boundless power, from Henry VII's consolidation of authority to Elizabeth I's aspirations in the New World. Using contemporary sources, this fascinating, easy-to-read, and enjoyable history explores how each monarch expanded their reign.

NetGalley, Andrea Romance

As an avid fan of British history, particularly the Plantagenet, Tudor, Lancaster, et al families... I had to give this new book a chance. David Wildman covers the 5 to 6 kings and queens from the 14th to 17th centuries, providing history of the drama, the key political moves, the genealogical impacts of having or not having a male child, and so much more. It's a non-fiction book, so reading all in one setting is not advised, but it offers a solid summary of everything you need to know. If this doesn't fascinate you about the family, nothing will!

NetGalley, James Cudney

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

The book unveils the seemingly insatiable hunger for power of this dynasty, driven by a deep-seated paranoia of occupying a throne they felt wasn't rightfully theirs.

The author skillfully navigates through the sixteenth century, detailing the rapid territorial expansions of the Tudors, often at great human costs. The intricate detailing of each monarch's vision, from Henry VII's consolidation of power to Elizabeth I's adventures in the New World, paints a vivid tapestry of ambition, strategy, and legacy.

What sets this book apart is its use of contemporary sources, seamlessly blended with modern historical debates. This not only adds authenticity but also provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of the era. For anyone keen to delve into the tumultuous and transformative reign of the Tudors, this book is a must-read. A captivating blend of history, intrigue, and drama, it offers an accessible yet profound exploration of a dynasty that shaped an empire.

NetGalley, Karin H.

This book focuses on the attempts by the Tudor monarchs to expand their 'empire' through the 118 years of the dynasty. From Henry VII's missed opportunity to fund Christopher Columbus' New World excursions through an attempt to establish a slave trade to Elizabeth I's relative support of explorers going both east and west, it provides extensive details on the transitioning Tudor focus on the 'Empire'. There's thorough discussion on things that diverted attention to matters closer to home like the repeated crushing of rebellions in Cornwall, Wales and the 'wilderness' that was the Irish island. Throw in the Scottish kingdom to the north and there was always something to divert attention to closer domestic issues. Add in Henry VIII's repeated attempts to make his name by engaging with France (and losing ground) and you have a detailed account of this era's world situation.

NetGalley, Ruth McWilliams

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

"The Tudor Empire" is a captivating historical read that weaves together the intricate tapestry of the Tudor era. Wildman's thorough research and engaging narrative bring the Tudor dynasty to life, making it a must-read for history enthusiasts. The book's detail and vivid storytelling transport readers to a bygone era, offering a compelling journey through the political intrigues, cultural advancements, and personalities that defined the Tudor Empire. With a blend of scholarship and storytelling, Wildman succeeds in creating a captivating and enlightening reading experience that leaves an impression.

NetGalley, Danielle Gautreaux

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

The Tudor era is a fascinating period in History. I love the way Wildman narrates history. It is almost like watching a period drama in words.

NetGalley, Joanna Lai

‘The Tudor Empire’ is an interesting nonfiction read, I would recommend it to anyone interested in the Tudor period.

NetGalley, Gemma Fechner

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

I found this book easy to read, it included lots of new information on the tudor period that I didn't know previously.

NetGalley, Abi Davies