Best England History Books of 2025

The Blazing World: A New History of Revolutionary England, 1603-1689 is a captivating and informative read that sheds light on a lesser-known period of English history. It explores the seventeenth century, a time of revolution, when society underwent significant changes that helped shape the modern world. The author, Healy, presents a convincing argument that the era was truly revolutionary in terms of far-reaching changes within society. The book is well-written, wryly humorous, and occasionally bawdy. It is a fresh and exciting take on English history that is both relevant and fascinating, making it a must-read for history enthusiasts.

The Crown in Vogue is a stunning tribute to the 70-year reign of Queen Elizabeth II and the House of Windsor from the pages of British Vogue. With contributions from royal commentators and visual treasures from Vogue's archive, this book is the definitive, authoritative portrait of Queen Elizabeth II's magnificent reign and of royalty in the modern age. The book showcases the most perceptive royal photographers, including Cecil Beaton, Antony Armstrong Jones, and David Bailey, making it a must-read for anyone interested in fashion and history. The Crown in Vogue is a unique and informative read for all fashion and history enthusiasts.

The book "Revolutionary Spring: Europe Aflame and the Fight for a New World, 1848-1849" is an epic history written by the bestselling author of The Sleepwalkers. It narrates the story of the 1848 revolutions that swept Europe and the charismatic figures who led them. The battles for the future were fought with one eye kept squarely on the past as the men and women of 1848 saw themselves as inheritors of a revolutionary tradition. The author meticulously researched and elegantly wrote the book with a cast of charismatic figures, making it a beautifully written, richly detailed account of a historical moment. Overall, it is a profound book that leaves a lasting impact on public life and political thought throughout Europe and beyond.

Shakespeare's Book: The Story Behind the First Folio and the Making of Shakespeare is a fascinating account of the creation of the First Folio, the collection of Shakespeare's plays that helped establish him as one of the greatest playwrights in history. The book delves into the lives and personalities of the people who backed, financed, curated, and crafted the First Folio, against a backdrop of political upheaval and international tensions. It also explores the personal challenges and tragedies faced by those involved in the project. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in Shakespeare and the history of literature.

His Majesty's Airship by S.C. Gwynne is an enthralling historical tale of the rise and fall of the world's biggest airship, R101, and the doomed love affair between an ambitious British officer and a married Romanian Princess. The book vividly details the epic story of great ambition gone terribly wrong, which resulted in the death of more people than the Hindenburg disaster. The author introduces remarkable and often tragically flawed characters, including the man who dreamed up the Imperial Airship Scheme, the celebrated writer and socialite with whom he had a long affair, and a national hero who devolved into drink and ruin. Overall, this book is a compelling read and a unique addition to the history of commercial aviation.

We Don't Know Ourselves: A Personal History of Modern Ireland by Fintan O'Toole is a remarkable book that chronicles the transformation of Ireland from a reactionary “backwater” to an almost totally open society in just one lifetime. O'Toole, a celebrated Irish writer, weaves his own experiences into Irish social, cultural, and economic change, showing how the country has changed over the years. The book is a feast for readers who are interested in Irish history and culture. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand how Ireland has evolved into the modern world.

A Spy Among Friends is a captivating true story by Ben Macintyre about Kim Philby, the most notorious spy during the Cold War, who rose to head Britain's counterintelligence against the Soviet Union while secretly working for the Russians. Macintyre expertly weaves together personal papers, British intelligence files, and keen psychological insight to tell the heart-pounding tale of how Philby almost got away with it all and what happened when he was finally exposed. This book is a fascinating portrait of a Cold War spy and the countrymen who remained willfully blind to his treachery, making it a must-read for anyone interested in espionage true accounts.

Courtiers: Intrigue, Ambition, and the Power Players Behind the House of Windsor is an insightful book that delves into the inner workings of the British monarchy. Valentine Low provides a gripping account of the courtiers who guide the royal family and how they navigate the delicate balance between public duty and private life. The book sheds light on the challenges faced by the royal family, including the tensions within the family and the need to make an ancient institution relevant in the modern world. Low's exploration of the complex characters and shifting alliances behind the monarchy makes this book a must-read for anyone interested in British history and the royal family.

The Queen: Her Life, written by Andrew Morton, is a comprehensive account of Queen Elizabeth II's reign. The book explores her ascension to the throne at a young age, her struggles and triumphs as a monarch, and the challenges she faced within her own family. Despite facing setbacks and resistance, Queen Elizabeth remained resolute in her role as a cultural, social, and political leader. Morton's narrative hits all the plot points, making it a must-read for those interested in British history and the royal family. Overall, this book offers a fascinating insight into the life of one of the greatest sovereigns of the modern era.

Town & Country: The Queen: A Life in Pictures is a stunning collection of over 300 photographs that showcase Queen Elizabeth II's seven-decade reign, from her early years as a princess to becoming the longest-reigning British monarch. The book covers significant moments throughout her life, including her marriage to Prince Philip, her coronation, official travels, and family life. Readers will also get a glimpse of the Crown Jewels, royal palaces, and residences. Victoria Murphy's insightful commentary adds depth to the images. Overall, this book is a valuable tribute to a beloved monarch and a must-read for anyone interested in British royalty.