Young Henry: The Rise of Henry VIII - Hardcover

Anyone who sees history as boring should be given Robert Hutchinson's book post haste. Without sacrificing facts and research, he has the ability to construct and absolutely compelling narrative and, though I never thought I'd say this of a book on Thomas Cromwell, one that is impossible to put down. He is one of the few authors who keep you up till 3am. His new book, covering the first 35 years of the life of Henry VIII, is a complementary volume to his splendid LAST DAYS OF HENRY VIII. (Sue Baker THE BOOKSELLER)

This is an enjoyable, unfussy history which explains a lot about the man who became Henry VIII...Robert Hutchinson vividly shows us the monster in the making and teaches us to feel a modicum of pity for his plight. (Christopher Hudson DAILY MAIL)

Robert Hutchinson has produced a biography that shines a light on Henry's youth, and details the people and the events that drove him....it is good to be reminded of the evils of absolute monarchy. And this book does that in a highly readable way. (TRIBUNE)

Robert Hutchinson has gained a reputation for engaging and accessible prose based upon impressive scholarly research, and this latest book does not disappoint... it provides a compelling new analysis of the influences that shaped Henry VIII's childhood... Hutchinson adds a vital human dimension that is often lacking in the more conventional political histories... and brings the future king's personality vividly to life, with all of its brilliantly contrasting and capricious elements. (Tracy Borman BBC HISTORY MAGAZINE)

scrupulous and readable... [Henry VIII] was though, for good or ill, one of our most important rulers and this fine biography offers a lucid view of the forces that shaped his complex personality. (Simon Griffith MAIL ON SUNDAY)

The author, who makes good use of archival material as well as published sources, tries to be fair to Henry VIII and succeeds. This is never an easy task when it comes to this king (CONTEMPORARY REVIEW)