First published 2022
Elizabeth Windsor never wanted the throne. This reserved young woman dreamed of a quiet country life with horses, dogs, and family. Then her uncle Edward VIII abdicated, thrusting her into the line of succession. At twenty-five, she became Queen of England and faced seven decades of relentless challenges. Morton reveals how Elizabeth navigated the monarchy's internal resistance to change while keeping the institution culturally and politically relevant. Her personal trials proved equally demanding. Rumors swirled about her husband's faithfulness. Her sister's marriage collapsed publicly. Princess Diana's death shook the royal family. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's departure created fresh turmoil. Through each crisis, this reluctant queen demonstrated unwavering self-discipline. Morton examines how Elizabeth guided Britain from post-World War II recovery through today's fractured political climate. His biography captures a woman who became both mother figure and sovereign to a nation, earning recognition as one of the modern era's most significant monarchs.
Genres: biography, historical-fiction, 20th-century, 21st-century
Vibes: intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: duty-over-desire, reluctant-hero
Setting: England
Period: 20th-century, 21st-century
427 pages · Hardcover · Grand Central Publishing