There have long been whispers of a romance between Queen Victoria and her Scottish servant John Brown, but nothing concrete to support them. This Long Read – written by historian Dr Fern Riddell, author of an explosive new book on the subject – reveals how she turned sleuth to track down evidence of their secret passion.
HistoryExtra Long Reads brings you ... Show More
Mar 23
Why Britain turned its back on the goose step
Extremism was on the march across continental Europe in the 1920s and 1930s – yet Britons chose a different, more moderate path. This Long Read, written by Alwyn Turner, explores why Britain largely tuned out the strongman theatrics and held to a more moderate course. Today's fea ... Show More
24m 1s
Aug 2024
The Real Anne Boleyn: Sex, Scandal & Betrayal
<p>Anne Boleyn was smart, sophisticated and had SO much charisma.</p><br><p>She kept Henry VIII waiting for SEVEN YEARS before they finally got together, and even then it was on her terms.</p><br><p>So where did it all go wrong for Anne Boleyn? Were any of the wild accusations ma ... Show More
50m 56s
Sep 2025
Anne Boleyn: Myths vs Reality
The life of Anne Boleyn has intrigued audiences for centuries. Everyone knows something about her time as Queen of England, and of course, her betrayal and execution. But her formative years in France remain a bit of a mystery.Joining us today is Estelle Paranque, an Associate Pr ... Show More
1h 1m
Jul 2023
Mary Queen of Scots: Bonus: Clare Hunter (Embroidering Her Truth: Mary, Queen of Scots and the Language of Power)
As a way to tie a bow on this season, we're learning more about Mary, Queen of Scots's inner life, motivations, and emotions through her use of textiles. I'm joined by author Clare Hunter, author of Embroidering Her Truth: Mary, Queen of Scots and the Language of Power, to discus ... Show More
51m 33s
Oct 2025
Introducing: Jane Austen Stories
This is a preview of a brand-new audiobook from the Noiser Podcast Network. Join Dame Julie Andrews as she reads Jane Austen’s most famous novel, Pride and Prejudice. Step into a world of humour, heartbreak, scandal and romance - all set in the rural landscapes of 19th-century En ... Show More
42m 30s