Henry V: The Astonishing Triumph of England’s Greatest Warrior King

In addition to being a TV broadcaster, podcaster, award-winning journalist, and bestselling novelist (Wolves of Winter), historian Jones (Powers and Thrones: A New History of the Middle Ages) is a truly gifted narrator. His warm British accent, lively tone, and clear enthusiasm for his subject make this meticulously detailed biography of King Henry V an engaging listening experience throughout its almost 15 hours of running time. Choosing to write in the present tense to bring his audience as close as possible to this iconic medieval ruler, Jones offers a balanced view of Henry’s life, from his noble birth to his brief but consequential reign, highlighting his barbarically cruel acts as well as his many accomplishments. Departing from Shakespeare’s portrayal of “Prince Hal,” Jones depicts Henry as a serious young man shaped by a tumultuous childhood. When his father became seriously ill several years into his reign, Henry assumed greater and greater responsibilities in preparation for his eventual rule. As king, Henry was conscious of presenting a pious image of a righteous warrior-king, but his military and diplomatic successes were marred by unnecessary brutality.