In the original dustsheet. Green cloth binding with gilt title on the spine.

F.B.A. provides an in-depth photographic presentation of this item to stimulate your feeling and touch. More traditional book descriptions are immediately available.

Kenneth Rose informs the reader in the prologue of this scrupulously researched biography of King George V, that his subject was born out of the direct line of succession to the throne, had only received the limited education of a nineteenth century naval officer, and was further handicapped by his ingrained conservatism; he tells us: “He was indifferent to science and
politics, to history and the arts; he spoke scarcely a word of any foreign language. Public ceremonial affected his nerves and entertainment his digestion. Few could regard his accession with enthusiasm, or even confidence”. Reading this, right at the beginning of the biography, one would be forgiven for wondering whether George V would be an interesting enough character to justify the book’s 500+ pages; however, Kenneth Rose, who has used material drawn from fifty archive collections, including extracts from the King’s diaries, has written an in-depth and very interesting biography which shows that George V surprised his detractors, and how, under the direction of two experienced private secretaries, he applied himself to the role and learnt how to become a successful constitutional monarch and a dutiful, respected and popular king. Mr Rose shows a good understanding of his subject and, having been allowed special access to information about the King’s private and public life, he has been able to produce a well-rounded portrayal of George V, and a biography which, although full of political drama, is also interspersed with some amusing anecdotes, making this both an informative and an enjoyable read. The author also takes time out from the factual information he presents, to explain in detail (as far as he is able) how the outlook and personality of his subject affected his response to the difficult decisions he was required to make, and how he also had to put personal feelings aside, especially when he had to deny asylum to his cousin, Tsar Nicholas II and his family, who were
later executed by revolutionaries. I must admit that initially I wasn’t hugely interested in reading a biography about George V, but having read and enjoyed Jane Ridley’s biography of his father, Edward VII ( The Heir Apparent: A Life of Edward VII ) and looking forward to reading Philip Ziegler’s biography of his son, Edward VIII ( King Edward VIII ), I felt I should really learn more about George V, and I am very glad that I now have. A deftly crafted, meticulously researched and very well-written account.

A great review from a satisfied reader.