An excellent, immersive description of 1509, the first year of Henry VIII’s kingship. A treat for anyone interested in Tudor daily life. Those wishing for more detail on the court of Henry VIII could read this work alongside the titles of Alison Weir to great advantage.—Library Journal

Johnson looks back at the early years of the infamously much-married, red-faced king, successfully revealing an intelligent, determined teenager. Capturing both the excitement and banalities of daily life from each economic class, Johnson recreates the rhythms of the Tudor era only two decades before Henry himself created seismic shifts that affected all of his subjects.—Publishers Weekly

The political narrative is crisp. An assured an eye-opening introduction to the England of 1509.—The Times Literary Supplement (U.K.)

Lauren Johnson is a terrific guide to a country on the brink of profound and permanent change, connecting everyday life with the thrust of great political events. This is a gripping and important work from a talented new writer.—Dan Jones, author of The Plantagenets

It is refreshing to read a book that not only focuses on the upper echelons of society but also goes to lengths to describe the lives of 'ordinary' people. Johnson's authoritative tone and passion for the subject made for a very enjoyable read.—History of Royals (U.K.)