The book was interesting from a historical viewpoint, but it was a difficult read. I had to restrain myself from having a cheat sheet by my side to tell all the royals apart as they grew older and became Dukes etc. The servants were also difficult to tell apart, lady of the bedchamber, lady in waiting, maid of honor, dressers etc. The author also bounced around the years with quotes often times from characters who had already passed. Diligence is needed to complete this book.