69 pages 2 hours read

Hilary Mantel

Wolf Hall

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Wolf Hall, the first in Hilary Mantel’s historical trilogy, follows Thomas Cromwell's rise in King Henry VIII’s court during the 1520s, starting from his escape from an abusive father to becoming a key advisor to the king. The plot centers on Cromwell’s efforts to secure the king’s desired annulment from Katherine of Aragon to marry Anne Boleyn, navigating complex political and religious landscapes, all while managing his personal losses and conflicts with significant figures like Thomas More and the Duke of Norfolk. Descriptions of domestic violence and the execution of individuals deemed traitors are present in the book.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel is praised for its rich character development and intricate portrayal of Thomas Cromwell. Critics commend Mantel's ability to bring the 16th century to life with vivid detail and engaging prose. However, some find the narrative's dense historical context and complex structure challenging. Overall, it is a compelling read for fans of historical fiction.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Wolf Hall?

A reader who enjoys meticulously researched historical fiction, complex character studies, and political intrigue will relish Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall. Fans of The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory or I, Claudius by Robert Graves will appreciate its immersive narrative and rich historical detail.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

British Literature

Topics

History: World

History: European