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

Excellent

This is a true mystery novel. Kept me guessing. Also the historical setting introduced me to something I knew nothing about. It was so interesting I did further research of the era while reading the book.
The performer was top notch.
The only problem with the book is the use of profanity. Being a Christian I found the terminology worse than any modern day cursing. It really bothered me. Fortunately its not used excessively. But it could keep me from another of his books though the story was excellent along with the plot and characters.

Fantastic narrator, excellent story

If you could sum up Dissolution in three words, what would they be?

Fantastic Historical Mystery.

What does Steven Crossley bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Steven Crossley really brought the characters to life. I forgot it was just one person reading most of the time and always knew which character was speaking by "their voice".

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

I loved this book. I couldn't wait to get in my car to listen on the way to work. Then I would listen whilst making dinner or doing chores. I really got lost in this story and historical novels aren't usually my flavor.

Good book!

This is a historical fiction mystery that takes place in the mid 14th century at the time of the reformation in England. I found it a tad slow moving at the beginning but, it picked up pretty quickly. The details offered painted a vivid
picture that I found interesting. I enjoyed the book and just ordered the 2nd book in the series and look forward to listening to it.

Give it some time!

At first I wasn't sure about this book, but I liked the narrator so I kept listening. I wasn't disappointed. This mystery kept me guessing till the end. It was full of twists and turns and interesting characters. I also enjoied Steven Crossley's narriation which kept me listening.

Just OK

I love historical fiction, and the time period fascinates me. However, the story was just above average. The monks were not developed beyond caricature levels, and the plot was a bit slow. I'd give it 3 1/2 stars if I could.

excellent story

Struggle to get into the story . Was slow but once the climax was reach I could not stop wanting to wanting to fined out who did the killing

A Tudor who done it

An enjoyable light read set in the times of the dissolution of the monasteries under Henry viii.

If you enjoy historical fiction in the style of an Agatha Christie novel then this would be right up your alley.

It probably won't leave a lasting impression on you, but then I don't think its aims to do so. Its the sort of book to bring away on holidays and have yourself transported to a different time and place.

Excellent series

What made the experience of listening to Dissolution the most enjoyable?

The narrator was an excellent match to the story. The accents were believable and authentic rather than over the top. The storyline was filled with historical detail that I found very interesting.

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

The plot was a good one with lots of twists and turns and red herrings. The main character Matthew Shardlake keeps an open mind in the face of politically expedient solutions posed by others.

What about Steven Crossley???s performance did you like?

Crossley found the right balance of accents and "acting" to bring the story alive and keep it moving, yet not be obtrusive.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

I was impressed by the author's presentation of the difference between religious beliefs and moral behavior and how disillusioned Matthew becomes as his heros are all found to have feet of very soft clay. Religion in this time is more about politics than about faith.

Any additional comments?

The books are long but absolutely worth it. I plan to listen to all of the Matthew Shardlake series

Excellent narrator

Great setting, interesting time/history, some good characters, decent mystery. It runs a little long, and the monks characters are not that well developed (might have been nice to have one or two of them be a bit more endearing) – but well worth a listen, especially as the narration is so good.

Excellent mystery and historical novel

This is an excellent book, both as a mystery and as an historical novel. the pace is perfect and the ending is surprising. Sansom furthermore makes the 16th century come alive in his narration and makes it feel immediate. I will be listening to other books in this series as well.