Athelstan: The Making of England: Penguin Monarchs

Audiobook series

Saxon Tales

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Alfred the Great; Edward the King

Audiobook series

Last Kingdom (formerly Saxon Tales)

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The Wolf Age: The Vikings, the Anglo-Saxons and the Battle for the North Sea Empire

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Kings and Queens of England

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The Price of Blood

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Alfred the Great; Young Edward

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The Steel Beneath the Silk: A Novel

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Among the Great

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The Kings and Queens of Britain

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Matriarch: Queen Mary and the House of Windsor

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Windsor Castle, Book 3

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Ravenspur: Rise of the Tudors

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?thelfl?d: The Lady of the Mercians

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An Alternative History of Britain: The Anglo-Saxon Age

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Living in Medieval England: The Turbulent Year of 1326

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Uncrowned: Royal Heirs Who Didn't Take the Throne

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The Lost Tudor Princess

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The Folkungs

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King of Kings: An action-packed unputdownable historical adventure from M J Porter

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The Demon's Brood: A History of the Plantagenet Dynasty

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A Song of Emrys

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The Outlaw of Torn

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Life of Alfred the Great

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A Really Short History of the Norman Conquest of England

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Grandmama of Europe: The Crowned Descendants of Queen Victoria

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The After Cilmeri Series Boxed Set: Daughter of Time/Footsteps in Time/Winds of Time/Prince of Time

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Tales of English Minsters: Hereford

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Volsunga Saga: The story of the Volsungs. With excerpts from the poetic Edda

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Unknown London

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The Devil and Harper Lee

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A Moveable Feast: The Restored Edition

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The Book of Charlie

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Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl

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Master Slave Husband Wife: An Epic Journey from Slavery to Freedom

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A Moveable Feast

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Prairie Fires: The American Dreams of Laura Ingalls Wilder

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Shakespeare

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The Diary of Anne Frank

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The Mysterious Case of Rudolf Diesel: Genius, Power, and Deception on the Eve of World War I

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The Professor and The Madman: A Tale of Murder, Insanity, and the Making of the Oxford English Dictionary

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Lives of the Wives: Five Literary Marriages

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Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave

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Up From Slavery

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The Greatest Beer Run Ever: A Memoir of Friendship, Loyalty, and War

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Benjamin Franklin

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Member of the Family: My Story of Charles Manson, Life Inside His Cult, and the Darkness that Ended the Sixties

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Lincoln

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Rebel Yell: The Violence, Passion and Redemption of Stonewall Jackson

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Leonardo da Vinci

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Benjamin Franklin: An American Life

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The Hemingses of Monticello: An American Family

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Nine Years Among the Indians, 1870-1879: The Story of the Captivity and Life of a Texan Among the Indians

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A Midwife's Tale: The Life of Martha Ballard, Based on Her Diary, 1785-1812

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The Duchess Countess

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Eliza Hamilton: The Extraordinary Life and Times of the Wife of Alexander Hamilton

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Mobituaries: Great Lives Worth Reliving

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Benjamin Franklin: Autobiography

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Anne Frank Remembered: The Story of the Woman Who Helped to Hide the Frank Family

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Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes: Cultural Studies in the Gospels

Podcast episode

S3.14 Emma of Normandy: Emma takes us from the dark days of Vikings invasions under Æthelred the Unready to the threshold of 1066. Her remarkable and dramatic life saw her twice be Queen Consort, Queen Stepmother and Queen Mother! Emma was often forced to fight to retain her...

Podcast episode

S1.05 Edmund I: Our story thus far has been one of constant triumph for the Anglo-Saxon kings, and in 939AD the young Edmund I inherits a fully fledged English kingdom. But can the first "boy king" live up to the glories of his forebears and earn himself the...

Podcast episode

Demetra Lindsay of Hedingham Castle: On this week’s episode, The Duchess meets Demetra Lindsay - custodian of the marvellous Hedingham Castle - Britain’s best preserved Norman keep. We learn about the history of Hedingham Castle, we hear about a beautiful love story that challenged the social norms of it’s day, Demetra introduces us to some ghostly residents who continue to walk the halls of Hedingham, and we take a tour the wonderful gardens. Enjoy.

Podcast episode

Welcome to Duchess: As a young girl growing up in the idyllic Welsh countryside, Emma Rutland never could have imagined she would live a real life fairytale. Born Emma Watkins, she met the 11th Duke of Rutland and fell in love. The couple married and Emma became the Duchess of Rutland. This transformation would thrust her into the world of the aristocracy - living in one of Britain's most important homes, Belvoir Castle. The life of a Duchess was not just romance and glamour but also hard work and responsibility. Emma learned that everyday running a stately home is a battle and that she has to work tirelessly to ensure the castle sees tomorrow. Emma wanted to learn more about the other stately homes of Great Britain, the history behind these estates, the families who call them home, and the other inspiring women who lead them today. When her daughter Vi suggested a podcast, she knew she had to do it. So please join Emma as she journeys through Britain, peeking behind the

Podcast episode

Belvoir Special Ep. 6: The Business of Belvoir

Podcast episode

Duchess, A Christmas Special from Belvoir Castle: Episode Description: On this very special festive episode of the podcast, our Duchess is joined by her daughter Eliza to speak about their historic home: Belvoir Castle. In the show, the Duchess reveals all about her own background, we learn about Belvoir’s ‘forbidden place’, the ladies discuss the chilling ghostly encounters they’ve had in their home, and we hear why it's so magical to spend Christmas in a castle. Top Quotes:"I've felt, from every woman I've met through making this podcast, such a great sense of passion and duty." - The Duchess"On that very sofa in this room, Winston Churchill was sat when he heard of King Edward VIII's abdication. Aunt Hersey always remembered the tears rolling down his cheeks." - The Duchess"One of the unique things that has happened with covid is that people have reconnected with their big house on the hill. We've had this huge surge in people local to us reconnecting with Belvoir again. That has be

Podcast episode

The Duchess of Argyll of Inveraray Castle: Episode Description:In this episode, the Duchess meets the Duchess of Argyll, who invites us inside her fabulous home: the historic Inveraray Castle, situated on the banks of Loch Fyne in Scotland. We learn about the ghostly history the castle, and we hear the story of the iconic 20th century society beauty: Ethel Margaret Campbell. The Duchess of Argyll shares with us the fascinating history of the proud Campbell Clan, and we learn about the Duchess of Argyll's connection to Britain’s most treasured of chocolatiers.Have you ever watched Bridgerton, The Crown or Downton Abbey and wondered what it's really like to be a Duchess? If so, this is the podcast for you.Top Quotes:“I think being a Duchess has taught me that I have a responsibility to my local community, and that I must do it better every day.” - Emma Rutland“We have a hundred and twenty thousand visitors a year. Without them, these homes have nothing.” - the Duchess of Argyll“That’s th

Podcast episode

Belvoir Special Ep. 1: Meet My Mum

Podcast episode

The Duchess of Fife of Kinnaird Castle: Episode Description:In this episode, Emma Rutland meets another Duchess: Caroline, Duchess of Fife. Emma Rutland learns about the estate’s rebellious history, the magnificent art collection in the castle, and the many groundbreaking conservation projects developed on the estate. Have you ever watched Bridgerton, The Crown or Downton Abbey and wondered what it's really like to be a Duchess? If so, this is the podcast for you.Top Quotes:“In these houses, we are only as able as the team around us. They are precious to you.” - Emma Rutland“Running these homes; making people happy. It is a joy.” - the Duchess of Fife“Despite everything, these houses survive.” - Emma Rutland“The environmental crisis is the biggest threat to us today. Conservation in these stately homes is crucial.” - Emma Rutland“When people look at these buildings, there’s a great sense of stability. That life goes on.” - Emma RutlandAbout the Guest and Stately Home:Caroline Bunting m

Podcast episode

Imogen Wyvill of Constable Burton Hall & Garden: Episode Description: In today’s show, the Duchess visits the beautiful Constable Burton Hall and Gardens to meet the current chatelaine, Imogen Wyvill. In the episode, Imogen introduces the Duchess to the chess grand master who courted Florence Nightingale, we learn about the Wyvill family’s important hand in the abolition of slavery, and the ladies discuss the famed and fabulous Tulip festival that is hosted at Constable Burton annually.Top Quotes:"Living in homes like these, you fall in love with them everyday through the eyes of your visitors." - Imogen Wyvill"The wonderful thing about Constable Burton is that it does have this very warm homely feel to it. It embraces you." - Imogen"The past year perhaps has helped us realise to keep life a little simpler. And actually it's a reconnection to the love affair with the British Isles." - ImogenAbout the Guest and Stately Home:Imogen Wyvill, nee Garner, is married to Marmaduke D'Arcy Willi

Podcast episode

Claire Watson-Armstrong of Bamburgh Castle: Episode Description:Listen in as the Duchess meets Claire Watson-Armstrong of the magnificent Bamburgh Castle. In this epsiode, we learn why Bamburgh is considered one of the greatest archeological sites in Great Britain, we are introduced to the many ghosts that are said to still walk castle halls, and Claire explains why Bamburgh Castle has been a centre for innovation.Top Quotes:“I love the interiors of Bamburgh Castle. Bits of the castle are Norman, are victorian, are more modern. But its all a collection of different eras - a wonderful potpurri.” - Claire Watson-Armstrong“I would love to bring recognition to this castle and tell the story of the people who made it what it is. If I could do that - I would be very happy.” - Claire Watson-Armstrong“My advice to the generations ahead would be to carve your own path, be respectful, and don’t procrastinate.” - Claire Watson-ArmstrongAbout the Guest and Stately Home:Claire Watson-Armstrong is

Podcast episode

Belvoir Special Ep. 5: Art, Heirlooms and Interiors

Podcast episode

Sarah Troughton of Blair Castle: Episode Description:In this episode of Duchess, Emma Rutland meets the wonderful Sarah Troughton, custodian of one of Scotland’s most enchanting stately homes - Blair Castle. In the episode, Sarah reveals how the Dukes of Atholl, who once called Blair their home, inherited the title of Lord of Mann - head of state of the Isle of Man. The Duchess is given the background on the Atholl Highlanders - Europe’s last private army, and we’re introduced to a former custodian who was not only the first female minister of state, but who also stood against Hitler.Top Quotes:“My greatest ambition with Blair Castle is to keep everything in tact but also to move with the times.” - Sarah Troughton“My advice to future custodians is to enjoy it. Remember to get to know everyone. Be observant, conserve and introduce new ideas.” - Sarah TroughtonAbout the Guest and Stately Home:Sarah Troughton is a half-sister of the late Iain, 10th Duke of Atholl and she is the Head Trust

Podcast episode

S1.64 Sweyn Forkbeard: This week on Rex Factor we put right what once went wrong and step back 1,000 years in history to review England's first Viking ruler, Sweyn Forkbeard. Sweyn was the father of the legendary Cnut and the first Viking to be acknowledged as full king...

Podcast episode

Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill of Blenheim Palace: Episode Description:On the third episode of Duchess, our host sits down with Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill in the breathtaking Blenheim Palace. We hear the amazing story of how the Palace was built, and how one particular woman was fundamental to it’s construction. Emma Rutland hears about the Spencer-Churchill's distinguished lineage and Lady Henrietta’s memories of Sir Winston Churchill. We are taken on a tour of the incredible architecture and interiors of Blenheim, and we hear about sacrifices former custodians have made to keep the Palace going. Have you ever watched Bridgerton, The Crown or Downton Abbey and wondered what it's really like to be a Duchess? If so, this is the podcast for you.Top Quotes:“The heartbeat of a private heritage home is the family living in it.” - Emma Rutland“My father always said: We are still fighting the battle of Blenheim. The battle doesn’t stop. We will always be fighting for Blenheim.” - Lad

Podcast episode

Episode 239 - The Lady of the Isle: Isabella de Fortibus and Carisbrooke Castle: Join us to discover the story of one of England’s…

Podcast episode

Lady Gerald of Carlton Towers: Episode Description: Today on the podcast, the Duchess travels to the magnificent Carlton Towers to meet Lady Gerald. In the show, Lady Gerald opens up about her daunting start to life in heritage, Lady Gerald explains how Carlton became ‘the greatest of all Victorian homes’, and the Duchess is introduced to Carlton’s ‘happy harp playing’ ghost!Top Quotes:"In heritage, there is a sense of duty and a sense of burden." - Duchess"I'm fearfully proud of being a custodian and whenever we leave I am desperate to come back." - Lady GeraldAbout the Guest and Stately Home:Born Emma Roberts, Lady Gerald is the daughter of a GP receptionist and is from Mayfield in East Sussex. Before marrying Lord Gerald Fitzalan-Howard she worked in recruitment in Kensington. She married her husband Lord Gerald in December 1990. The couple have three children together. Alongside her husband, Lady Gerald runs the estate and appeared on numerous television shows, such as The Guest Wi

Podcast episode

S2. 22 Duncan II: The death of Malcolm III and his queen, Margaret of Wessex, sent Scotland back into the chaos of dynastic conflict. Malcolm's brother, Donaldbain, stole the throne in 1093 but there were many sons of Malcolm ready to challenge him and first up was...

Podcast episode

S3.17 Ealdgyth of Mercia: Ealdgyth of Mercia is not a famous name, but her episode is full of Rex Factors. As consort to Harold Godwinson, she was the last Anglo-Saxon consort and her story has plenty to fascinate: Lady Godiva, Gruffydd ap Llywelyn and a Welsh/Mercian alliance,...

Podcast episode

Episode 50: A Unified Family of English Speakers: In the early 10th century, King Alfred’s children and grandchildren conquered the Viking region known as the Danelaw. This brought all of the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms under the rule of a single monarch. That monarch was Aethelstan who became the first … Co...

Podcast episode

The Countess of Derby of Knowsley Hall: Episode Description:On this episode of Duchess, our hosts travels to meet the lovely Countess of Derby of the beautiful Knowsley Hall. Lady Derby speaks to the Duchess about the impressive lineage of the Stanley family, and Lady Derby explains some of the challenges she encountered when first arriving on the steps of Knowsley Hall. Emma Rutland learns about Knowsley's astounding connection to Shakespeare, we are given an insight into the Stanley's enthusiasm for equestrian sports, and we hear first hand accounts of the what it’s like to run an estate during a pandemic. Have you ever watched Bridgerton, The Crown or Downton Abbey and wondered what it's really like to be a Duchess? If so, this is the podcast for you.Top Quotes:“That was the most difficult thing during the lockdown. Everyone had to isolate. It was actually very lonely.” - Lady Derby “It’s hard to describe a stately home life without realising it is very co-dependent.” - Lady Derby “

Podcast episode

S3.13 Ealdgyth: We're back with the Saxons this week, reviewing Ealdgyth, consort to Edmund Ironside. Ealdgyth was from a prominent midlands family who fell out with King Æthelred the Unready in the difficult period of Viking invasions. We find out how these fami...

Podcast episode

Belvoir Special Ep. 2: Architecture & History: The Duchess meets the Duke’s personal assistant, Harvey Proctor, to discuss the architecture of Belvoir Castle and the Duke of Rutland to discuss the Manners family history.

Podcast episode

Belvoir Special Ep. 4: Gardens & Legends

Podcast episode

Belvoir Special Ep. 3: The Role of Woman and Life as a Duchess: In this episode, the Duchess meets Belvoir Castle’s archivist, Vicki Perry, to discuss the history of women at Belvoir Castle, and the Duchess will also meet her daughter, Violet, to talk about what life is like as a duchess.

Podcast episode

The Marchioness Townshend of Raynham Hall: Episode Description:On this exciting episode of Duchess, Emma meets the custodian of one of Britain’s greatest stately homes: The Marchioness Townshend of Raynham Hall. In this episode, we learn about the fascinating story of how the city of Sydney was named after a Townshend. The Duchess hears how Lord ‘Turnip’ Townshend ushered in an agricultural revolution at Raynham, and we are given the full story behind the world’s best known ghost photograph!Top Quotes:“You can not dictate the future of a home. All you can do is love it and look after it now.” - Lady Townshend“Traditionally, these houses would have had recitals for every group of people that they had visiting. Music is in the DNA of grand homes.” - The Duchess of RutlandAbout the Guest and Stately Home:Raynham Hall is a country house located in the glorious countryside of Norfolk. For nearly 400 years it has been the seat of the Townshend family. Born Alison Combs, Lady Townshend is the

Podcast episode

Episode 47: The Man Who Saved English: King Alfred is the only English monarch to be known as “the Great.” His struggles and ultimate victory over the Danes ensured the survival of the Anglo-Saxon culture and the English language.  In this episode, we explore the life of … Continue reading →

Podcast episode

S1.03 Edward the Elder: Our monarchic journey hurtles headlong into the tenth century as we move on to Edward the Elder, a Saxon warrior king who sets a trend for not being Edward I. However, following Alfred the Great is no mean feat - not only did he earn our Rex Factor...

Podcast episode

S3.03 Æthelflæd, Lady of the Mercians: Æthelflæd is one of the most remarkable and unfairly forgotten figures in English history. The eldest child of Alfred the Great and Ealhswith, she became consort to the Lord of the Mercians but really came to prominence after his death when she took...

Podcast episode

Lady Ashcombe of Sudeley Castle: Lady Ashcombe / Sudeley Castle and GardensEpisode Description: This week on Duchess, the Duchess of Rutland travels to the historic Sudeley Castle and Gardens to meet Lady Ashcombe. In the show, Lady Ashcombe speaks candidly about the impact of the tragic loss of her husband so early into her life custodian, the Duchess gets a background on the castle’s immense royal history, and Lady Ashcombe describes the tales of ghostly monarchs that are said to walk Sudeley’s halls today. Top Quotes:"How many times have these grey suited individuals told you it isn't possible but the will of the chatelaine overcomes all." - Duchess"You need to protect the home and it's contents because without the art that's on the walls these houses don't tell the story they were meant to. It all represents layers of history and we are just a moment in time - preserving, protecting and defending." - Duchess"Sudeley Castle, and places like it, belong to the culture. Even though Sud