Dan Spencer is a medievalist with a particular interest in military history. His previous work includes a scholarly monograph about gunpowder weapons in late medieval England. In this book, he turns his attention to the Wars of the Roses, with a special emphasis on the role of the castle.
Continue reading Book Review: The Castle in the Wars of the RosesEdward IV was the most effective general of the Wars of the Roses. His prowess in warfare enabled him to become king of England, and later to recover his position in spite of remarkable odds. He did experience major setbacks at several points in his life, but he eventually died in his bed, still undefeated in battle. This post will provide a brief overview of Edward’s military career, before moving on to explain the reasons for his success. I will also consider, however, why he failed to achieve more. Continue reading Edward IV: Warrior King
Ronald Welch (1909-82) was a prolific author of historical fiction for children and young adults. I discovered his work as a thirteen-year-old, when I picked up one of his novels in the school library. As I was already a budding writer and historian, I quickly went on to read several more. However, much as I enjoyed his other books, my first encounter with Welch, Sun of York, remained a steadfast favourite. It was out of print for many years, and for a long time I despaired of ever finding an affordable copy, so I was delighted when it was finally reissued in a beautiful edition from Slightly Foxed.
David Santiuste 