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Charles II: The Star King | Penguin Monarchs

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A Captivating Portrait of the Merry Monarch

In this captivating biography, acclaimed historian John Guy paints a vivid portrait of Charles II, the enigmatic and charismatic king who presided over one of the most tumultuous periods in English history.

As the eldest son of King Charles I, Charles II inherited a throne shattered by civil war. Forced into exile at a young age, he witnessed the execution of his father and the collapse of the Stuart dynasty. But through sheer determination and political cunning, he returned to England in 1660 to reclaim his rightful crown.

Charles II (Penguin Monarchs): The Star King

by Clare Jackson

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13487 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	117 pages

The Restoration and Its Discontents

Charles II's return marked the beginning of the Restoration, a period of great social and political change. Eager to heal the wounds of the past, the king pardoned many of his former enemies and sought to restore stability to the nation. However, his efforts were met with mixed success.

Charles's scandalous court, filled with mistresses and extravagance, became a source of both fascination and reproach. His religious policies, which favored tolerance for nonconformists, provoked opposition from the established Church of England.

A Complex and Enigmatic Monarch

Behind the public facade of the "Merry Monarch," Charles II was a complex and enigmatic figure. A brilliant strategist and a skilled politician, he possessed a keen wit and a charm that captivated those around him. Yet, he was also a man of contradictions, torn between his desire for pleasure and his sense of duty.

Guy explores Charles's complex relationships with his siblings, his mistresses, and his advisors. He sheds light on his secretive personal life, revealing the man behind the crown.

The Legacy of the Star King

Charles II's reign was a roller coaster of triumphs and setbacks. He witnessed the Great Fire of London, the Anglo-Dutch Wars, and the Exclusion Crisis, which threatened to exclude his Catholic brother, James, from the throne.

Despite the challenges, Charles II left a significant legacy. He restored the monarchy, ushered in a period of cultural and scientific enlightenment, and laid the foundations for Britain's future as a global power.

A Must-Read for History Buffs and Royal Enthusiasts

John Guy's "Charles II: The Star King" is a triumph of historical biography. Meticulously researched and brilliantly written, it offers a compelling and nuanced portrayal of one of England's most fascinating monarchs.

Whether you're a seasoned history buff or a newcomer to the era, this book is an essential read. It provides a captivating account of a man who shaped the course of English history and whose legacy continues to resonate today.

Free Download Your Copy Today

Dive into the captivating world of Charles II with "Charles II: The Star King" from the Penguin Monarchs series. Free Download your copy today and immerse yourself in the tumultuous and fascinating reign of the Merry Monarch.

Available now at your favorite bookstore or online retailer.