The reign of Henry III was very long, by medieval standards, 1216 to 1272. I suppose especially to Henry that it did seem to last a century. While England faced no existential challenges in his lifetime, the work of controlling the feudal nobility was beyond Henry's power. He watched the remains of the overseas possessions melt away, and his grip on Scotland was virtually non-existent. He died after the reins of power were firmly in the hands of his exceptional son, Edward I. Costain does present a readable account of this period, and the characters who sought to control Henry. There is coverage of the birth of the House of Commons during the de Montfort civil war. ( )

This is my favorite book of the Plantagenet series. Costain makes history come alive and is not a dull writer like some authors of pure history. All about the 13th century as you never knew it. Very worth reading! ( )

I found this book in a used bookstore and bought it. After enjoying my read (which paralleled a book I'd recently read by Sharon K Penman, "Falls the Shadow"), I found "The Three Edwards" which I also enjoyed reading.

Costain makes English history really interesting and understandable, despite many important characters having the same name! Whew!

I have a copy of "The Last Plantagenets" but have not yet read it. I'll post a review once I do. ( )

I found this book in a used bookstore and bought it. After enjoying my read (which paralleled a book I'd recently read by Sharon K Penman, "Falls the Shadow"), I found "The Three Edwards" which I also enjoyed reading.

Costain makes English history really interesting and understandable, despite many important characters having the same name! Whew!

I have a copy of "The Last Plantagenets" but have not yet read it. I'll post a review once I do. ( )

He takes you there! ( )