As good as the Wolf Hall

Having absolutely loved the 'Wolf Hall', I have expected this book with a mix of excitement and trepidation, and must say that it is absolutely fantastic. I love the way the story is told as perceived by Cromwell and I also loved some original twists in what has now become a very familiar tale (thanks to Philippa Gregory and 'The Tudors').

The narrator is perfect. I've enjoyed every minute of listening to this book!

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History so vividly told

As in its predecessor (Wolf Hall), Mantel uses Thomas Cromwell to view the unfolding of critical history - the unravelling of the second marriage of Henry VIII to Anne Boleyn. In Cromwell, Mantel re-creates the most fascinating of characters - a consummate man of the world who skilfully negotiates narrow and dangerous paths along the corrupt and unsteady cliffs of the English court. A certain weariness and cynicism can be detected in Cromwell's armour in this second volume of the trilogy-to-be as the compromises of principle heap up. One can only applaud this repeat achievement of massive research presented apparently effortlessly.
The narrator was perfect for the book.

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Brilliant

What a writer, I can't imagine how it could possibly be any better. Can't wait to read #3.

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Excellent

Lyrical, absorbing, genius. Hillary Mantel has no equal when it comes to historical fiction. Her use of language is masterly in creating the inner life of Thomas Cronwell.

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An enthralling look at history

Most people know Henry VIII had six wives and most have heard of Ann Boleyn, but this book brings the circumstances of those times to life. Through the eyes of a Thomas Cromwell Henry’s most loyal subject. It was appalling yet believable and also incredibly sad. The reading by Simon Vance was spine chilling in parts, sympathetic in others. I felt like I had been taken back five hundred years to walk in the footsteps of a group of incredibly manipulating people. None of whom really got what they thought they wanted.

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as if experiencing th historical events first-hand

beautiful words beautifly spoken, interesting story, historicly educational, very enjoyable, would like to hear the continuation

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Wish I hadn't read this yet! A treat!

If you could sum up Bring Up the Bodies in three words, what would they be?

Brilliant. Just an excellent story and what's more, it actually happened.

What other book might you compare Bring Up the Bodies to and why?

Read the other one too - just as good.

What about Simon Vance’s performance did you like?

The accents, the intonation and the style were excellent.

Who was the most memorable character of Bring Up the Bodies and why?

Henry of course!

Any additional comments?

A must read for anyone who loves a good story.

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STUNNING

What did you love best about Bring Up the Bodies?

Removed me from the 21st century and dumped me in the 16th using brilliant characterisation and imagery.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Bring Up the Bodies?

Enthralling all the way through

Which scene was your favorite?

Insightful exploration all the way though.

Who was the most memorable character of Bring Up the Bodies and why?

Major and minor characters are both fascinating.

Any additional comments?

Loved "Wolf Hall" but this sequel is even more enthralling. Dreaded ending the experience. Once finished, I played it all over again. Hilary Mantel's talent is frightening. The narrator, Simon Vance, absolutely nails it. His Henry VIII makes me feel I know him ........which is a worry.

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Brilliant, Again!

After I finished reading Wolf Hall I had to deliberately stop myself from simply reading this sequel. Perhaps that was a bit indulgent, but it did mean that I was looking forward to this with great anticipation - all positive. I guess I was a bit disappointed when I began to listen.
In part it was because Simon Vance was different in his reading of Cromwell. Henry's voice too had changed. Queen Anne's accent had changed. What was going on? Vance is better than that, I thought. I can be a bit slow sometimes. Then it dawned on me! Of course the voices were different. The characters were different, so why wouldn't the voices be different.
This is a different Cromwell from the one of humble beginnings as a blacksmith's son and then climbing the greasy power pole. Here, he is almost atop of the pole; at the height of his persuasive powers. Mocking Machiavelli as an amateur, avenging his patron and mentor's tormentors; reaping the ultimate revenge on each of the "four paws"and repaying the Queen's jealous dismissal of him in cold,calculating steel. Here is a man, a lawyer, a statesman to be reckoned with. And with that reckoning comes a new surety. He is starting to sound a bit more like Thomas More. He is behaving a bit more like a king. The stage is set now for the ultimate confrontation - king against king-maker. I really can't wait for the final chapter.
I loved the subtlety of this book. Maybe I'm reading too much into it and the change of voice. Maybe it is just a good yarn. But I don't think so. It's much, much better than that. In my opinion, a deserved second time winner of the Man-Booker. Readers of great books should not be disappointed.

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Great book!

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes, factually interesting - want to keep reading, sorry it ended. Will read more Mantel books.

Have you listened to any of Simon Vance’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

No.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

No

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