I enjoyed this look at the changes started by Henry VIII while trying to divorce Katherine of Aragon. It was told more from the point of view of the people on the ground, not Henry; so you saw the impact on the monasteries and villages rather than just the court. I think it showed how difficult and dangerous it was to try to keep ahead of changing opinions and pronouncements from the King and his agents. ( )

I really liked [Nothing Left Sacred] by Daniel Diehl.
I was really amazed by the fact that Henry the VIII had his own
Inquisition of Catholics and others that went against the Crown
and refused to denounce their beliefs.

I would recommend this book... ( )

This review is part of the Early Reviewers program.

Daniel Diehl attempts to cover the political drama of King Henry VIII through the lives of some of his underlings. In his introduction, Diehl highlights that all the dialogue and events that could be taken from primary sources, such as letters, diaries, court records, etc., was copied exactly from those sources, and this is an impressive feat. However, I was not intrigued by this book. I've read many books about the Tudor court and the 6 wives of Henry VIII, and that might be the reason that I found this account lackluster. Like the Wolfhall saga by Hilary Mantel, Nothing Left Sacred just did not keep me entertained. There's a revolving door of characters that makes it hard to become attached to any one.

However, the book is well written, and if you liked the Wolf Hall books by Hilary Mantel or other political historical fiction, this might just be the book for you.

The need for a male heir. This is the single focus of many early kings. Henry VIII is no exception. When Katharine of Aragon fails to provide, Henry seeks divorce. But this is not an option for a faithful Catholic. Thus begins the true saga that is fictionalized in this novel. Diehl has provided a deep look into the political and ecclesiastical reforms of mid 16th century England as Henry seeks to solidify an heir for the Tudor throne.

Be prepared for a long read. This is not a book to be picked up lightly. For those who enjoy a deep historical plot, this book serves it up. We are introduced to various nefarious characters who seek to serve their own political aims. When the final three pious monks at Glastonbury Abby are executed, we see that truly, there was nothing left sacred in England.

* I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. ( )

King Henry the VIII is growing concerned with the lack of a male heir. As he plans to change the religious practices and politics of his realm, King Henry enlists powerful men to bend long-practiced traditions to the King's will. Nothing Left Sacred explores the behind-the-scenes of how King Henry's decisions during this time of upheaval have impacted England's future.

This is an in-depth look into the decisions made by Henry VIII and his adviser Thomas Crumwell (or Cromwell). While fictional, it feels like a non-fiction look at the time period, using real letters, statements and documents from the time. This is not a book that put any of the characters in a good light, I did not like any of them, but this probably showed the true nature of the men that they were. While I can say that I love all things Tudor, this was a different read for me; I usually read from a women's point of view or from a very character driven plot. This was more politically driven with backhanded deals and plotting. I learned the most about Crumwell and his major role in influencing Henry VIII.

This book was received for free in return for an honest review ( )