1666 and All That

Great storytelling meets rigorous research in this vivid new podcast that brings the 17th century to life.

In this episode, hosts Miranda Malins and Paul Lay tell a darkly compelling story that resonates powerfully in our age of conspiracies and false accusations. In 1678, an obscure churchman called Titus Oates alleged that the Jesuits and their allies were plotting to assassinate King Charles II and return England to Catholicism. Backed by a disreputable clique of extremists and opportunists, Oates's baseless claims gained mainstream credibility, with terrible consequences for the accused.

Miranda and Paul recall the strange story of the Spanish Match. In 1623, the future King Charles I travelled incognito to Spain in search of a bride, a sometimes farcical escapade that sparked years of diplomatic intrigue. Their guest is historian Alexander Samson, who explores how the journey left Charles with a lifelong love of art - and a dangerous taste for absolutism.

Robert discusses the events that inspired his latest novel, Act of Oblivion, set in the years following the Restoration of King Charles II. And he gives us revealing insights into how he researches and plans his bestselling historical novels.

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