The Queen Herself

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An enthralling biography of Britain’s longest-reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, ideal for fans of Ingrid Seward, Hugo Vickers, and James Pope-Hennessy. Born third in line to the throne, Elizabeth never anticipated becoming Queen, but her destiny changed with her uncle Edward VIII's abdication. Helen Cathcart’s intimate account chronicles Elizabeth’s extraordinary life, from her early years in royal palaces—where she endured air raids during the Blitz—to her marriage to Prince Philip in 1947 and their life as new parents. The death of her beloved father, King George VI, in 1952 marked a turning point as she ascended to the throne at just twenty-five. Cathcart vividly recounts key events of Elizabeth II’s early reign, including her spectacular Coronation at Westminster Abbey in 1953, her grand Commonwealth tour, and her first televised Christmas broadcast in 1957. Drawing on a wealth of contemporary sources, including family letters and royal journals, this biography offers a detailed portrait of a devoted daughter, wife, and mother, alongside her role as a celebrated national figurehead. It provides fascinating insights into Her Majesty’s remarkable life and reign, showcasing Cathcart’s expertise as a royal biographer.