Passions run high and play out at court in this glorious depiction of Edward II's reign from

multi-million copy and international bestselling author Jean Plaidy. Perfect for readers of Philippa Gregory.

''Jean Plaidy conveys the texture of various patches of the past with such rich complexity'' -- Guardian

''Jean Plaidy''s books are a celebration of women''s spirit throughout history'' --

Daily Express

''Outstanding'' -- Vanity Fair

''I am thoroughly enjoying this Plantagenet series and am making my way through them all savouring each page'' -- ***** Reader review

''An excellent read - hard to put down'' -- ***** Reader review

''Brilliant as always'' -- ***** Reader review

''A book you cannot put down'' -- ***** Reader review

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Edward the Second''s first act on coming to the throne is to recall Piers Gaveston from exile, and the new king''s devotion to the shrewd and avaricious young man soon becomes a scandal.

It is assumed that when Edward marries one of the most beautiful princesses in Europe his inclinations will change, but nothing can make him swerve from his attachment to Gaveston, who is clearly making the most of royal favour.

The new Queen Isabella, accustomed to adulation, is bitterly humiliated; and she is not a woman to forget or forgive. With the country in turmoil the king is making enemies throughout the land, and he fails to see that the most deadly of these is his queen.