Helen Cathcart Book order

A fascinating biography of Royal Lodge, Windsor. Ideal for readers of John Martin Robinson, Simon Thurley and Lucy Worsley. Royal Lodge is one of a scattered group of dwellings, mansions, forts and follies in the southern recesses and environs of Windsor Great Park which have served royal pleasures and private needs ever since the carefree days of Charles II. It has been the home of artists and courtiers and farmers and foresters, the picnic pavilion of queens and the private abode of two kings. Nestled amongst groves of ancient woodland and landscaped gardens, it is where the Duke and Duchess of York (later King George VI and Queen Elizabeth) made their home in 1932 and where their two young daughters - Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret - played happily in the Little House, Y Bwthyn Bach, in the garden. Meticulously researched, royal chronicler Helen Cathcart paints a vivid picture of the evolving architecture, changing décor and esteemed inhabitants of Royal Lodge from earliest days through to the mid-twentieth century. Royal Lodge, Windsor is a superb narrative history of life at Royal Lodge through the centuries. Praise for Helen Cathcart: 'An expert on royalty' - The Guardian 'Wide acclaim as a royal biographer ... objective, uninhibited and penetrating' - Sunday Express 'Helen Cathcart writes about royalty as if she were one of them' - Daily Mail 'The doyenne of royal biographers' - Daily Telegraph

The biography explores the life of Katharine, Duchess of Kent, tracing her journey from a Yorkshire soldier's daughter to a beloved royal figure. Helen Cathcart details her early years, including her unique upbringing during wartime, education at Castle Howard, and her initial career in a children's home. The narrative highlights her enchanting romance with Prince Edward, the Duke of Kent, and her experiences as an Army officer's wife in various locations. The book emphasizes the Duchess's commitment to community service, contributing to her widespread admiration.

Ideal for readers of Hugo Vickers, Philip Ziegler and James Pope-Hennessey.Affectionately known as the Queen Mother, she was born a commoner and never expected to be Queen. Yet, her life was forever changed with the abdication of her brother-in-law, Edward VIII, and she rose to become one of the most popular royal figures.Helen Cathcart’s fascinatingly intimate account charts the life of Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, from her birth and early years to her courtship and marriage to the second son of King George V and Queen Mary, through the abdication crisis and later period as Queen consort, before giving insight into the first forty years of her life as Queen Mother after her daughter, Elizabeth II, had ascended to the throne.During her long life the Queen Mother witnessed numerous challenges to her nation, including two world wars and the decline of British power, yet, as Cathcart reveals, she remained an unwavering pillar of support to both her husband and her daughter through these difficult times.Drawing information from family letters, royal journals and the personal recollections, The Queen Mother is an exceptionally detailed picture of one of the most influential women of the twentieth century.‘Helen Cathcart writes about royalty as if she were one of them’ – The Daily Mail‘the doyenne of royal biographers’ – The Daily Telegraph‘A tireless chronicler of royalty’ – The Guardian

The evolution of the Princess Royal title is explored through the life of Princess Anne, the current holder. The narrative draws on royal letters and journals to depict her journey from a playful child to a dedicated champion rider and advocate for various causes. It highlights significant events, including royal engagements, a relationship with a Dragoon, and a harrowing kidnapping attempt. This account not only showcases her personal achievements but also reflects the responsibilities and expectations that have shaped the role over generations.