Despite its prestigious reputation as the longest established and most admired in Europe, the story of the British monarchy is punctuated by an ongoing roster of scandals, murders, betrayals, plots, treasons and general mayhem. Since 1066, England has seen three civil wars. Six monarchs have been murdered or executed. The throne of England has been usurped four times, and won in battle three times. From the "accidental" murder of William II in 1100, through the excesses of Richard III, Henry VIII and "Bloody" Mary, to the conspiracies surrounding the death of Diana, Princess of Wales, in 1997, this accessible and immensely enjoyable book highlights the true personalities and real lives of the individuals honoured with the crown of England - and those unfortunate enough to cross their paths.