I don't have the scholarly background to assess the accuracy of Fraser's work in this book. I've found it to be fairly interesting though not incredibly scintillating. What I do feel strongly about, however, is the reader on the audiobook version.

The woman reading insists on affecting different accents and tones of voice whenever there is a quote from primary sources (e.g., a faint German accent for Caroline's quotes, French accent for quotes from French commentators, blustery tones for George III and IV, etc.). I'll admit this has some usefulness, as it does help the listener keep track of who is being quoted in this long book, which does rely heavily on primary source quotes. However, it gets on my nerves to hear a reader of a nonfiction work affecting different voices--it's all right for fiction, but it seems silly to me in a work of nonfiction. Just my personal opinion and a warning for those who feel the same way.

A biography about one of England's most enigmatic and on this side of the pond at least lesser known Queens. Charlotte born into the rather stogy provincal atmosphere of the Hanoverian Court was married off while still a teenager to her first cousin the future King George IV. A dandy and bon vivant who had already contracted a marriage years ago to the attractive and apparently virtuous widow Mrs. FitzHerbert. Alas Mrs. FitzHerbert was not only a commoner but a staunch catholic and George was a spend thrift. When His father refused to continue filling his coffers unless he found himself a proper (i.e. Royal) bride he abandoned Mrs. FitzHerbert and wed poor Charlotte.

Almost at once however he was repulsed by his cousin (whom he had never before met). After siring one child (a daughter Charlotte) he promptly returned to the far more worldly and appealing Mrs. FitzHerbert. This led poor Charlotte to rebel.

Her rebellion was to cost her dearly. Leading in the end to a notorioius and flawed trial headed by parliment to decide if she was in fact guilty of adultry.

Charlotte led a tragic but interesting life. As with Marie-Antoinette it can be said that Charlotte's own bad judgement and ignorance were as much (if not more) to blame for her misfortunes as the ill will of her enemies.

Overall it was an engaing account of a fascinating woman and period in time. It gave glimpses into the lives of the rest of the British Royal Family. From George's rather embittered maiden sisters to his mad father King George III and his outwardly sweet but meddling mother Queen Charlotte.

Flora Fraser is definitely Antonia's daughter. This book is elegantly written, meticulously researched, and a pleasure to read. Ms. Fraser doesn't dwell lasciviously on the naughty bits, but she doesn't avoid them either. Historians of the Regency period (or any period) realize that the ubiquitous sex is the least interesting part.

If you're not interested in history and biography, if you prefer The Enquirer to The New York Times, you'll probably be disappointed in this book. On the other hand, if you crave intelligent, truthful, fluidly written narrative about a fascinating time in which hypocritical politicians played innuendo like a fine instrument (sound familiar?), get this book. I've read it multiple times, and always find something new to appreciate.