Since 1066, that most famous date in English history, forty people from ten dynasties have sat on the throne of England. Antonia Fraser introduces this pageant of royalty and eight specialist contributors bring to life the characters of each incumbent. Accompanying the text are extensive family trees, a range of contemporary and historical images, and essays on the heraldic devices of the different monarchs.

Over the last nine centuries the role and powers of the crown have changed hugely, partly as a result of the characters and abilities of its various holders but also because of evolving historical circumstances. The biographers touch on politics, society and the economy to highlight important features of a reign, but above all they convey the personal histories, the strengths, weaknesses and convictions of the monarchs and the impact they had on their kingdom. From the colourful medieval kings who led their armies to battle, inspiring playwrights and poets, the dignified if repressed court of the Queen-Empress Victoria, to the present day, the whole spectrum of English royal life is displayed in a succinct and fascinating way.