The writing style of this author is so fluid and engaging that the book unfolds like an immersive novel, which is particularly appealing for someone who is not well-versed in historical topics. I found myself eagerly consuming the rest of the series, and over time, his interpretations have lodged themselves in my memory as the definitive accounts of those historical events. This connection prompted me to pick up his work once more; having developed a solid understanding of the period, I was curious to see if his narratives still held the same emotional and intellectual weight for me as they did upon my initial reading. To my delight, they absolutely do!
The first volume opens with the tumultuous civil war between Matilda and Stephen, setting the stage for the emergence of Henry II and skillfully leading the reader through the chaotic political landscape of the time. It encompasses a rich tapestry of events and characters, ultimately culminating in the poignant death of King John. Despite having explored numerous books about my favorite monarch, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that Costain’s vivid descriptions and storytelling remained not only entertaining but also refreshingly original. For instance, as the story builds toward the tragic demise of Thomas Becket, Costain captures the tension of the moment with the line: "Before the performance of high mass, Thomas a Becket preached in the chapter house... He made it clear that he understood the fate that awaited him." This kind of detailed narrative grants the reader a deeper insight into the historical context and the gravitas of Becket's situation.
