The story of Henry VIII and his six wives is a familiar one but it was interesting to read this which is told from his own perspective. Having read several of the books in the authors Six Tudor Queens series, this is the perfect companion book.

Ms. Weir describes Henry in a way which is compelling and believable. This comes as no great surprise as her books, both fiction and non-fiction, are always expertly researched. She has previously written much about the Tudor period, and as readers we can rest assured that she will present the world with a book which is as historically accurate as is possible within the realms of fiction.

‘Henry VIII – The Heart and the Crown’ by Alison Weir is her latest book dealing with the Tudor era. This time though, we are told the story from the point of view of Henry. I’ve read several of Alison Weir’s books, dealing with the wives of Henry VIII, told from their perspectives. This is very different and has given me a deeper understanding of the period.

I wondered how I would feel about Henry after reading this book. Would I still have sympathy for the wronged wives? Or would Henry be able to persuade me otherwise? I’m still on the side of the six wives. Henry had an unshakable belief in his own superiority and that was obviously encouraged by those around him. His strict father tried to rein him in, and it worked to some extent. But once the young man was King, there was no stopping him. There were maybe some redeeming features early on, but his self-obsessed side, indulged by all, won out.

I found the story compelling, and seeing it from the other side was interesting. I may not have liked Henry, but understanding how he justified his actions to himself opened the Tudor era up to me. A well-written story with excellent historical detail.

I was given this ARC to review.

So refreshing to read about Henry VIII from his side, it felt like finally he gets to have a say after all his wives & advisors!! Alison Weir brings him to life, she doesnt gloss over the decisions he made or actios taken but she does humanise him.

If you have ready any novels told from the wives or advisors perspective this is a must read to balance things out.

Well researched and despite it's length and easy book to read.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for allowing me to read The Heart and the Crown.

An interesting read, which is very clearly well researched. I thought that having Henry's POV was an interesting surprise, however it totally made sense in regards to his personality! It covers Henry's story, from the death of his mother, up until his own death. It covers such a monumental era, and I can only imagine that it was as daunting to write as it was to read. So much happened in such a short space of time!

It is a very heavily detailed book, which at times felt slightly difficult to read. Henrys perspective is definitely a challenging, yet interesting, one to read, and this is through no fault of the author. It is just because he is such an unlikeable and whiney character!

A disappointing retelling of Tudor History

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Headline Books, for a digital ARC of this book. I have written this honest review voluntarily.

I gave up on this novel at 20%. I don’t like to give up, but I felt I was wasting my time on this. My review is based on the first 20% and I didn’t flick through to see if it improves.

'Henry VIII: The Heart and the Crown' is a fictionalised account of the life of King Henry 8th. The promotional material includes the quote “Gets under the skin of the man who is so often dismissed as a much-married monster and gives us an altogether more nuanced, compelling and human portrayal.” It didn’t.

I felt the author was not sure if she was writing a novel or non-fiction. My perception is that she had a long list of dates and happenings, plus some ‘fun facts’ about characters from the Tudor period, and come hell or high water, was going to include all of them regardless of whether they contribute to the story being told. It reads like a string of facts strung together with some narrative to make it into a novel.

This book needed some serious editing to cut out irrelevancies and to make the main characters three-dimensional, which there was no space to do because of all the ‘facts’. For example, why did we need this? -

“He smiled to himself. In youth, Margaret had been married to Kate’s brother the ill-fated Infante Juan, who had died young, like Harry’s brother Arthur, of consumption. It had been widely rumoured that his lusty bride had worn him out in the marriage bed”.

I don’t need to know about Katharine of Aragon’s dead brother or the rumours about his death. It serves no purpose to the story of Henry 8th. It isn’t even foreshadowing. There are loads of irrelevant asides like this. This one appears at around 20%. By 20% Henry is only just meeting a 12-year-old Anne Boleyn, in passing, in France, and Princess Mary hasn’t been born yet. What a waste of words.

I suppose I understand why: Henry the 8th is not main protagonist material; he is the 'baddie' in any story. To address the quote “...often dismissed as a much-married monster...” I mean Fred West only murdered one wife, but we don’t have a book celebrating his building work pre-murders. Henry 8th was a psychopath, perhaps a serial killer, if the definition can extend to getting other people to do your dirty work for you. It wasn’t just his wives he had killed on trumped-up charges. So if you want a novel about him that makes him seem like a nice guy, yes, it will have to be padded out with all the bits where he wasn’t having people killed, if you want to make him look human. 

Murderers can be the main protagonist in fiction but in such cases, the book doesn’t brush over the murders and usually, the fictional murderers we enjoy reading about, have a logic or some kind of moral code behind what they do, but we know that isn’t the case here. Further, in non-fiction, the books about killers are usually all about explaining why the murderer grew up to do what he did. This book doesn't position itself to explain why Henry grew up to do what he did, and perhaps it was all caused by a head injury so there is no explaining to do, but 20% in nothing much had happened, so I gave up.

Alison Weir does a fantastic job in telling this tale that we all think we know, in an authentic erudite way.
I learnt quite a lot that I didn't know about Henry and his life. It was refreshing to see things from his perspective for a change.
A must-read book for all students of this time in history.
Well done Alison, and thank you to the publisher for an advanced copy for honest review.

"Henry VIII: The Heart and the Crown" is a historical biography written by Alison Weir. The book explores the life and reign of King Henry VIII, one of England's most famous monarchs.

The biography delves into Henry VIII's personal life, including his marriages, affairs, and the many political and religious controversies he faced during his reign. The book provides a detailed account of Henry's upbringing, his relationship with his father, and his early years as king.

Throughout the book, Weir explores Henry's motivations and character, as well as the events and decisions that shaped his legacy. She paints a vivid portrait of a complex and often contradictory figure, who was both a ruthless tyrant and a passionate lover.

Weir's writing is engaging and well-researched, and she draws on a wealth of historical sources to bring Henry VIII and his world to life. The book is both informative and entertaining, providing readers with a fascinating glimpse into one of the most tumultuous periods in English history.

Overall, "Henry VIII: The Heart and the Crown" is a must-read for fans of historical biography, and anyone interested in the life and times of this infamous monarch. It is a masterful work of historical writing that offers a rich and nuanced perspective on a fascinating figure from the past.

The E-Book could be improved and more user-friendly, such as links to the chapters, no significant gaps between words and a cover for the book would be better. It is very document-like instead of a book. A star has been deducted because of this.

This is a first for me by the author and one I enjoyed and I would read more of their work. The book cover is eye-catching and appealing and would spark my interest if in a bookshop. Thank you very much to the author, publisher and Netgalley for this ARC.

I enjoyed the way Henry thought, and the way his character developed but the book overall was a little slow for me - no pressing urge to keep reading.
Fans of the the genre will enjoy though I am positive

This was the first Historical Fiction genre novel I’ve read, and it did not disappoint. The author managed to humanise Henry VIII who can come across as a cruel and unforgiving tyrant. Especially given the well documented treatment of his wives and the significant amounts of beheadings that took place. From this book, it tells the story from Henry’s perspective, in terms of his wives, his advisors, his family and his court.

I found it an enjoyable read, and I would certainly be interested in reading some of Alison Weir’s other books told from Henry’s wife’s perspective.

4 stars.

A great read for anyone who is a fan of Tudor history.

Thanks to NetGalley and Headline for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

Having read Alison Weirs books on the Six Wives previously I was very much looking forward to reading Henry’s version. As always Weir did not disappoint. Staying true to the prior actions of Henry VIII, Weir provides a fascinating viewpoint on why Henry was the way he was.

I don't think I really need to say much about the...erm we'll say gentleman that this is about other than to say to me he really was a bit of an ass. A very interesting ass but an ass nonetheless. So, has having the fantastic Ms Weir give him a voice made me think any differently? Nope, but it's still a fantastically enjoyable book.

I'd have to say this series so far isn't as literary as the Six Wives series. By that, I mean you really felt in the story with thar series. With this one, it feels more like a series of events played out. It's a bit like one of those documentaries where you have talking heads interspersed with dramatic recreations. So, a bit dry but still entertaining. Still an easy 4 stars.

This was an ambitious novel to write, but Alison Weir managed to triumphantly pull it off.

Everyone reading this book will know at least something about Henry VIII. At the very least, they will know the fates of his wives, and most people will know at least something more about his role in history. And it’s safe to say that this is a figure everyone has an opinion on. This isn’t a book about a hero, or an anti-hero, or a villain, or a tyrant. It gives a very nuanced, thoughtful depiction of one of British histories most charismatic characters.

Weir did an excellent job of creating a character who did many terrible things, but was always convinced that it was the right decision. A lot of time and care goes into not only building the wider world and context, but also establishing Henry’s character from childhood. As we follow his journey, we see him growing up as a young prince and then king who is never told no. His whole life he is surrounded by people who either want to please him, manipulate him, or both, which he is often ignorant to. The balance was just right, that we as the reader could see clearly what was going on, but Henry either couldn’t or wouldn’t. Weir never passes moral judgement on Henry; instead, this book exists as a lengthy character study, bringing to life a complex and divisive figure.

This also takes place in the same slightly-fictionalised world as the Six Tudor Queens series. There were plenty of nods and references to the things in those books that Weir invented, and it is definitely worth reading all seven books for the full story.

The audiobook had excellent narration from Elliot Fitzpatrick. Coming in at just under 22 hours, having a good narrator is essential, and it was an incredibly engaging listen.

I received a free copy for review. All opinions are my own.

Thank you for the opportunity to read this arc copy of Alison Weirs new book.

Wow, what an incredible achievement as with all Alisons books she manages to bring history to life. I have read every one of her fiction books and this like the others transports you fully into the past.

Heavily researched and well written this account of Henry VIII life is impactful. After reading each book on the Tudor queens, this helps get a different perspective of the Tyrant King.

Weir is impartial and lays out the facts. You feel sorry for Henry in a way, the pressures of being King, the way the court squabbles and fights for power, manipulating the king into making decisions. The court uses women as weapons for their own agenda, then throwing them under the bus. Who will know if the charges brought against these women, friends and advisors are true. Or if they have all been lies for others to secure power. You feel for the king, the man that just wants an heir to secure his kingdom - not that I think it condones what he did. But you definitely get to see both sides of the story.

I love that Weir has written both sides, I don't think the series couldn't have ended without it.

The books started off quite slow but soon gained momentum in the later years of Henry's life. This book truly transports you into the life of the Tudor court. What an amazing read. I can't wait to see what Alison Weir writes next.

I'll be posting a review on my Bookstagram page @blonde.reads.fiction soon!

Alison Weir has done it again with Henry V111. An amazingly thought provoking take on the world of Tudor England.

So thought provoking that it is not surprising that so many people wanted to replace him or have him replaced. I, for one, wonder how on earth he lived as long as he did. By a few years into the tale, I would have willingly contributed to an assassination fund. How did he survive with behaviour like that? Having said that, looking at the way the rich and powerful are able to behave almost 600 years later proves, I suppose, that nothing really changes.

Henry VIII: The Heart and the Crown is a story that should be very close to the top of your reading list: it is that good and that thought provoking.

I love reading historical fiction especially those set in the Tudor period, so I was excited to read Henry VIII: The Heart and The Crown by Alison Weir particularly as this book is told from Henry’s point of view. I really wanted to see if Henry could be portrayed as a man I could root for, given everything I have read about him.

I received a copy of this book for a free and unbiased opinion.

The book is from Henry’s perspective about his life- starting when he learns about his mother’s death till his own death, covering a time in English history that led to changes that still shape the country to this day.

The author skilfully weaves the impact of Henry’s childhood trauma having a critical and overprotective father after his mother's death, and stepping into a role he was never meant to have throughout the book. This makes Henry less of a tyrant and more of a man who had to deal with his losses as the King. But she doesn’t shy away from the negative aspects including his arrogance, fickleness, sense of entitlement and cruelty to the people he once loved.


Henry in this book is a man who also mourns the loss of his children with Katharine of Aragon, a man who wants to find someone perfect to love him but is influenced by the court around him, a conflicted father and man dealing with his past. But he is also a man with unlimited power, as well the power of life and death over his subjects including his wives and friends.

The book is rich with historical detail, not just about his complicated quest to find the perfect wife, but about the religious and political issues which still mark the landscape of England today. Sometimes literally- the ruins of once grand monasteries are still visible.
Content warning
References to miscarriages, stillbirths and sexual coercion

Great end to Alison Weir’s engrossing series about Henry VIII. If you are looking for a one volume novel about Henry VIII’s perspective on his wives, I’d recommend this. I got so into reading it that I got on the wrong train and stayed there for 3 stops. After reading this book I will definitely reread the Alison Weir books that I didn’t read about his wives. I think you’d get even more out of this book if you’d read those beforehand.

I loved the idea of this book coming from Henry prospective however I found it to long I don’t know if that’s because I enjoyed the Tudor Queens series more so the length of them didn’t bother me as much.

But saying that I would still go and buy a physical copy to add to my collection.

This novel is Henry VIII’s perspective to Weir’s amazing Six Tudor Queen series. If you were a fan of these descriptive and detailed works then you will be extremely happy with this accompanying instalment.
I really feel like this book ‘finishes’ off the series.
To read alone, this book shows Weir’s mass knowledge of the Tudors and is an incredible book. But, I feel the Queen series gives the other side to each Queen’s story and depth to the story as a whole.
I love the way this book shows the different ‘Harry’s’ of his reign. From a youthful, sporty teenager easily influenced through to his growing obsessive behaviour and thorough paranoia which was again fuelled by the ambition of others.
Not my favourite in the Tudors series, that’s crown is held by Anne Boleyn. But a good book to read after you’ve read from his bride’s point of view.

I have been looking forward to this book for so long!

It is a fantastic portrayal of the life of Henry VIII. Having read Alison Weir's Six Tudor Queens series, I was keen to see through Henry's eyes.

I like that Henry is referred to as Harry throughout the book, it makes him feel more human and able to connect to. It was fascinating to see how events in his childhood impacted him throughout his life and moulded him into the man and king he became. Whilst I don't always agree with some of his choices, I am more sympathetic now, it must be very lonely being king. We see how almost everyone is out for their own cause and there are very few Henry can truly trust.

Alison Weir has worked wonders with her writing, as usual!
Highly recommend for fellow Tudor enthusiasts!

Henry VIII: The Heart and the Crown is the second instalment in Alison Weir's companion series to the Six Tudor Queen novels. As the title suggests, the English Nero takes centre change.

The novel opens with the death of Elizabeth of York, Henry's mother, who Weir considers pivotal to Henry's matrimonial career. We see the closing years of his father's reign and Henry's frustrated liberal, humanist nature contrasting with Henry VII. Watching the shift in his temperament and psychology as he became more suspicious and authoritarian and why these changes could have occurred was fascinating.

There is some natural repetition, and it is well-trodden ground. However, Alison Weir ensures that this is Henry VIII's perspective. That is both a strength and, at times, a weakness. Some of Weir's theories, such as Henry's wish to spare Katheryn Howard, are interesting and allow for interesting interpretations and developments. The idioms were overdone.

If you're a fan of the series, you will enjoy this latest instalment. I am grateful to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC.