This novel based on King William I of England, aka William the Bastard, aka William Duke of Normandy, aka William the Conqueror, had me hooked from start to finish.

Ms Plaidy opens the tale before William’s birth, showing how his parents met and why he was destined to be baseborn. I’m glad the author did this, as I knew nothing of these earlier events.

I love the way we get to see William grow up, evolve into one of the all-time great generals, and see him right through to his death. Despite some of the harsh – or even horrific – actions he undertook or ordered, I found him likeable.

Along with William himself, I especially liked the author’s portrayal of the “bastard’s” parents and of his wife, Matilda of Flanders.

It’s hard to review this book for anything else specific because I found it to be a continual flow of engaging narrative. Thus, the best thing I can recommend to anyone considering reading it, is to read it.

A regal read. ( )

A great piece of historical fiction, Plaidy takes readers through the childhood and rise to power of William the Conqueror. This book is a masterful mix of history and characterization of one of England's great rulers. ( )

I enjoyed this novel; I wasn't terribly impressed with the writing, perhaps the age of the novel (c1974) has something to do that, but I found the story of William and Matilda to be interesting. The novel expanded my knowledge of this era of English history and I definitely plan to read more. ( )

This is the first book of a long series of Anglican history books that Plaidy wrote. It is the story about William the Conqueror, who invaded what we now know as England in 1066. It is his life story, from beginning to the end.
When I first started reading her books, I was stunned by her unique insight into the people who until then were just figures in history surrounded by important dates. She made them human, and wove a story around them without passing any judgment, which captures and holds your attention and also does them justice.
If you are somewhere between a casual reader (who does not care about accuracy) and an experienced historian (who is quite happy with facts and does not need dramatisation), then start with Jean Plaidy's works. Of all her works, her Spanish Trilogy is quite good. I believe she also has written non-fictional works on the Spanish inquisition which may be read for background. ( )

http://shelfandstuff.blogspot.com/2007/02/norman-trilogy-by-jean-plaidy.html ( )