Dissolution

A Novel of Tudor England Introducing Matthew Shardlake

By: C. J. Sansom

Narrated by: Steven Crossley

Length: 14 hrs and 33 mins

Publisher's summary

This riveting debut set in 1534 England secured C. J. Sansom’s place “among the most distinguished of modern historical novelists” (P. D. James). When Henry VIII’s emissary is beheaded at an English monastery, hunchbacked lawyer Matthew Shardlake is dispatched to solve the crime. But as he uncovers a cesspool of sin, three more murders occur - and Matthew may be the next target.

©2003 C. J. Sansom (P)2011 Recorded Books, LLC

Dissolution of Catholicism in England

Dissolution, by C. J. Samson, takes place during King Henry the VIII’s closure of Roman Catholicism in England. More often during the course of our historical studies we were told that the ostensible reason was so King Henry could marry Anne Bolin. Dissolution provides us with further insight that another attractive reason to void Rome’s control of the English gospel was to seize the wealth of the Roman Catholic Church in England. The book though does not center on Henry the VIII. Rather it concerns itself with the absolute power being wielded by Thomas Cromwell over the reformation in England. We are also shown how the Church was operated for its benefit and not that of its flock.

Into that setting, comes Matthew Shardlake, an investigative attorney, sent by Cromwell to solve a murder at a monastery soon to be looted in furtherance of the reformation. Shardlake must solve the murder of the King’s prior emissary to the monastery, before the closing of the abbey can take place because of political circumstances. The single murder becomes a series of murders and Sharlake struggles to find the truth. He does, but not only the truth of the murders, but the proper nature of the reformation as well; at least as being conducted by Cromwell. This is the first of the series and it was not bad. Had mystery, plot and a story that kept one’s attention. Other reviewers tell us the same and some encourage us to continue reading as the series and its mysteries get better. Even better than this fairly good novel is intriguing.

The truly great part of this book was its teaching about England in the 1530s. We all know the history of Henry the VIII, and his lust for women and an heir. What is more difficult to find is a telling of life and politics of the time. C. J. Samson does that very well. The readings, by Steven Crossley, was quite good. The book is worth a try, particularly if the series does in fact get even better. I will be trying more myself.

Great Book

This book is a time machine back to 1530s.
Very engrossing hard to put down. A very real page turner.

Must Read Series

Would you listen to Dissolution again? Why?

Yes! Steven Crossley really brings this story alive and his voices are consistent throughout the performance. This story is gripping with characters that jump out of the narrative.

What did you like best about this story?

The unassuming protagonist, Matthew Shardlake. The setting, the time period.

Which character – as performed by Steven Crossley – was your favorite?

With out a doubt, Matthew Shardlake, how could it not be.

One of the best historic thrillers I read

What did you love best about Dissolution?

The mixture of history and criminal investigation is superb. The writing is very vivid and one can almost smell and touch the life of medieval England. The main figures are not quite likable, but very real. The author is very skillful presenting a multi-layered, internally conflicting personality of the main characters.

Did the plot keep you on the edge of your seat? How?

The murder plot is actually quite simple, but the twists with the main characters personal feeling and changes of attitude are the main factors attract me from listening it.

"Murder at the monastery"

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

For those that enjoy mystery & suspense novels that incorporate historical backdrops, this will be a good addition to their listening library.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Dissolution?

Towards the end, when Shardlake was holding on to the bells for dear life.

Have you listened to any of Steven Crossley’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

No, first time listening to this author but would listen to him again. I looked at the list of the books and was happy to see that the same narrator is listed. It's hard to get used to a different narrator when their is many books in a series----throws the listener off because they are used to a particular narrator voicing the characters.

Any additional comments?

Came across this author through browsing the recommendations posted on Audible's website and decided to give it a try. At first, the story wasn't interesting but the more I listened, the better it got.

An excellent listen!!!

Any additional comments?

I thoroughly enjoyed this book despite it's predictability (3.5 actual on story but a loss of a story star for the predictability)
A simply, yet well written story.. A very nice intro to the setting and Shardlake.
Steven Crossly did a wonderful job telling the story, will seek out other readings by him.
Also, all that more fun as I am just now watching the Tudors TV Series (although not too impressed by the series).
Looking forward to the next in the series and to more character development of Shardlake.

Simply excellent and thoroughly enjoyable

It is so well done that far beyond fans of historical fiction would find great pleasure. Thank you.

Engaging historical mystery

Good characterization, plenty of historical detail and a likable but flawed protagonist. Looking forward to the next book in the series.

Delightful!

I am sceptical when it comes to historical fiction, which often openly plays havoc with the facts. This book pleasantly avoided all the major errors, while providing an excellent mystery whodunit! The narration was spot on, making this a thoroughly enjoyable read!

My Favorite Series of all time

I love The Shardlake series. I have read and listened to all of the books in this series, many times over the years. Whenever I am feeling low, I go on adventures with Matthew Shardlake. and I always feel better.

The story is well written. and the story get better with every book. I love all of the characters that we meet.

I am sure I will listen to this book again in the future.
Steven Crossley is an amazing voice actor!