The Távora Affair was one of Portugals' bloodiest scandals that resulted in the extinction of an entire noble bloodline. What started with wanting to do away with a powerful political family ended with massive arrests, torture and execution. To this day, historians still debate on the validity of the claims. One thing is certain: the Portuguese knew how to put on an execution performance of epic proportions. 

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The story of Sir Walter Raleigh is is wild as this episode title. Yes, we are very good at alliteration. 

Sir Walter was one of Queen Elizabeth I's favorite courtiers. And how could he not be!? He was a soldier, explorer, poet, politician and an experienced gardener amongst other things. After fighting battles in foreign lands, he was granted a charter ship to explore the New World in hopes of colonization. His crew came back from unknown lands with tobacco and other mysterious goods, making him a notable person of interest. 

His itch for adventure did come with a rebellious side, though. Unfortunately, King James I wasn't as tolerant to his antics as the previous queen was. Known for being one of the Tower of London's most dedicated residents, Sir Walter Raleigh found himself continuously returning to his well-decorated confinement, and then inevitably to the block. 

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Did you know that it's possible to live inside the Tower of London!? If not, you are in for a treat. Megan Clawson is an author and daughter of a Yeomen Warder currently residing in the Tower of London, and we can guarantee she has some stories! In this very special episode, Megan shares with us what it's like to live inside one of England's oldest fortresses, including the highs, the lows, and the quirky parts. We also chat about her new novel, "Falling Hard for the Royal Guard", which will be available internationally this Spring 2023.  In this royally humorous rom-com, Maggie Moore (love the name!) finds love through some clumsiness while also living inside the Tower of London, giving us a glimpse of what Tower life might be like in the 21st century. Meet Megan with us and be sure to pre-order your copy of "Falling Hard for the Royal Guard" today! 

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La Voisin was a woman of many trades: fortune teller, midwife, and, of course, one of France's top-selling poison makers. Not only did she assist anyone who needed to do away with someone (for a great profit, of course), she was also more than eager to orchestrate black, satanic masses to ensure their every wish came true. It was only a matter of time before she got caught up in what would be known as "The Affair of the Poison" in 17th century France. In this episode, we talk about the dangers of participating in dark violence, evil sins, and pyramid schemes. 

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While now of days you might be excited to find out you're a wizard, that was not the case in 1692. The Salem Witch Trials resulted in 19 people hanged, 1 person pressed to death, and 2 dogs being shot. In this episode, we revisit this gruesome time in America's history (mostly to follow up on the 2 dogs), but also to tell the story of George Burroughs, who was amongst the 19 people hanged for witchcraft. Not only was he one of the few men to be found guilty, but he is also the only pastor to be executed for these crimes in American history. Once you were accused of conspiracy with the Devil, it was difficult to escape the executioner's noose regardless of title, and Burroughs was no exception. 

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Edward Stafford, 3rd Duke of Buckingham, was well acquainted with the politics of Tudor court. His father and grandfather were both noblemen who served several different kings on the English throne, from King Henry V to Richard III. Edward Stafford learned at a young age the price one can pay if their allegiance to the king is questioned. With a strong royal bloodline himself, the 3rd Duke of Buckingham had to play the game carefully in an effort to keep the young King Henry VIII on his good side. And as we all know, that can be the hardest game of all. 

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Regicide has always been addressed with the most severe punishments. However, in 18th century France, it didn't matter if it was a successful assassination or a failed attempt, as the culprit could still receive the worst of ends. In 1757, Robert-François Damiens' crimes against King Louis XV resulted in hours of public torture and execution, and included a number of creative methods (horses included). So the question must be asked: does the crime fit the punishment? 

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Mirror, mirror on the wall.... who is the bloodiest countess of them all? Why, no other than Elizabeth Bathory. She was a rich and beautiful noblewoman in mid-16th century Hungary. While she dripped in jewels and velvet, she also was known to soak herself in the blood of young local girls to preserve her youth and beauty. Bathory can be easily considered one of Europe's most notorious female serial killers, even centuries before the term was coined. Her sadistic killing spree could only last for so long, though, before ending in betrayal, torture, and execution. In this episode, Megan and Elizabeth pull apart the bloody and frightening tale of the Blood Countess. 

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We have a special guest! In this unique episode, we have the pleasure of chatting with the one and only James Peacock. James is the manager and founder of one of the most successful social media communities for all things regarding Anne Boleyn: The Queen Anne Boleyn Society. Not only does he run all of these platforms, but he is also a Palace Host at Hampton Court Palace, making him a top Queen Anne expert. Get to know James with us and hear from a true professional on our favorite subject. Enjoy!

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The notorious case of Dr. Crippen is that of transatlantic proportions. He was a homeopathic American doctor in the early 20th century who moved to London with his lovely (yet unfaithful) wife, Cora. Affairs can go both ways, however… after Cora goes mysteriously missing, Dr. Crippen and his own lover are on the run. Their story makes history as London police tracked down their suspects using a wireless telegraph for the first time. Don't be a creep - listen to Dr. Crippen's notorious tale today.

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