The Hundred Years War: A People's History

David Green (Get this book)
In this new, refreshing look at the Hundred Years' War, Green examines the resulting reconstruction of European culture."The crucible of war forged and reforged the English and French nations into something new," writes the author in this illuminating history. This war, or series thereof, lasted from 1337 to 1453, with interruptions for short terms of peace, famine, civil strife in France and the Black Death. During that time, there would be changes everywhere, but the war began as a feudal and dynastic struggle, as Edward III of England laid claim to the French crown. It ended with a new sense of national identity in both countries as they sought to maintain or reclaim territory, particularly the former Angevin possessions that covered most of modern-day France. Green holistically explores aspects of the war's effects with exceptionally thorough research on subjects as diverse as the Catholic Church, women, peasants and even language.--Kirkus

Rebellion: The History of England from James I to the Glorious Revolution

Peter Ackroyd (Get this book)
Biographer, historian and novelist Ackroyd continues his History of England series with the third of six proposed volumes. What makes the author so special is that he relates history as it once was told by the bards. Ackroyd tells us not just the history, but the story behind it and the story as it might have been viewed at the time. This was a violent period of religious struggle, with countless groups vying to eliminate each other and all of them hating the Catholics. Appropriately detailed, beautifully written story of the Stuarts' rise and fall-will leave readers clamoring for the further adventures awaiting England in the 18th century.--Kirkus