Flora Fraser Boeken

From biographer Flora Fraser who has a gift of penetrating analysis (New York Times Book Review)--comes a brilliant group biography of the daughters of Mad King George III.

BIOGRAPHY: HISTORICAL, POLITICAL & MILITARY. George and Martha Washington, of Mount Vernon, Virginia, were America's original first couple. From the 1750s, when young soldier George wooed and wedded Martha Dandridge Custis, a pretty and rich young widow, to the forging of a new nation, Flora Fraser traces the development, both personal and political, of an historic marriage. The private sphere - their love of home and country, the two children Martha brings to this union from a previous marriage, and the confidence she instilled in her beloved second spouse - forms the backdrop to an increasingly public partnership. The leading role played by Virginia in the resistance to British taxation galvanised the pair, radicalising their politics, and in 1775 George Washington was appointed commander-in-chief of the American 'rebels'. In the eight harsh years of the American War of Independence which followed, Martha's staunch support for her husband never wavered

The narrative explores the pioneering partnership of George and Martha Washington, highlighting their deep devotion and mutual support throughout their lives. Married in 1759, George's ambition and Martha's grace shaped his rise as a military leader and eventually the first president of the United States. Martha's unwavering support during the Revolutionary War and her role as First Lady were crucial in establishing the traditions of the presidency. This account reveals their significant contributions to American history and the emergence of the nation on the world stage.

"The year is 1746. The Jacobite rebellion has failed catastrophically and Scotland is reeling in the devastating aftermath of the battle of Culloden. Far to the west, on an island in the Outer Hebrides, twenty-four-year-old Flora Macdonald is woken in the dead of night by a messenger with urgent intelligence. Bonnie Prince Charlie is outside, begging for her help. With Flora's assistance, the Stuart prince is disguised as an Irish maid and smuggled to the Isle of Skye, evading government troops. Flora's bravery and determination will see her immortalised in ballads and proclaimed a Scottish heroine. But her efforts also result in her capture and detention in London. Released the following year and returning to Skye, Flora goes on to marry and emigrate to North Carolina, only then to be caught up in the American Revolutionary War. In Pretty Young Rebel, award-winning biographer Flora Fraser tells the remarkable story of Flora Macdonald. It is a tale of adventure and daring, wit and charm, struggle and survival, and of a woman who showed extraordinary courage in the face of great danger"--Publisher's description

Set against the backdrop of the American and French revolutions, this biography delves into the lives of the six daughters of "Mad” King George III. Acclaimed biographer Flora Fraser offers an intimate look at the British royal family, exploring the dynamics and challenges faced by these royal women during a time of significant political upheaval. Through rich storytelling, the book reveals their unique personalities and the impact of their father's reign on their lives.

Exploring the life of Pauline Bonaparte Borghese, this biography reveals her as a captivating figure in the Napoleonic era, renowned for her beauty and scandalous love affairs. With a penchant for opulence, she famously posed nearly nude for Canova and maintained a complex relationship with her brother, Emperor Napoleon. Pauline's loyalty was unwavering, as she followed him into exile and sought to join him again after Waterloo. Flora Fraser offers a vibrant portrayal that sheds new light on both Pauline and the historical context of her time.

The narrative explores the tumultuous relationship between Princess Caroline and the Prince Regent, highlighting their brief marriage and the ensuing scandal that culminated in a trial for adultery. Fraser's detailed research reveals Caroline's resilience as she navigates exile and the challenges of her diminished status, all while drawing parallels to contemporary issues. The biography presents a compelling portrait of a woman who, despite facing significant adversity, maintained her strength and defiance against societal norms.

Flora Fraser gives us the fascinating story of a mismatched Prince and Princess of Wales, married in 1795 and separated less than a year later. George III arranged the marriage of his niece Caroline of Brunswick to his son George. Their disastrous, and probably bigamous, marriage (George having earlier privately married a Catholic widow), had profound political consequences culminating in the trial of Caroline for adultery. Caroline's place in history has generally been limited to that of persecuted wife but Fraser, with access to previously unavailable documents, provides a complex portrait of a spirited woman who refused to be victimized.

This biography explores the life of Flora MacDonald, a pivotal figure in Scottish history known for her role in assisting "Bonnie" Prince Charlie during his escape after the Jacobite defeat. It delves into her courageous actions and the impact they had on her legacy, including her inspiration for the famous "Skye Boat Song." The book highlights her resilience and the cultural significance of her story in the context of Scotland's tumultuous past.

Emy Lyon's journey from the daughter of a blacksmith to a celebrated figure in 18th-century Europe showcases her captivating charm and tumultuous life. As the muse of renowned artists and the lover of Admiral Nelson, she mingled with royalty and navigated a world of opulence and intrigue. However, her story takes a tragic turn, leading to her final days in disgrace and solitude. Flora Fraser offers a richly detailed portrayal of Lady Hamilton, exploring her relationships, ambitions, and the societal dynamics of her time.