In this riveting and extensively researched account, Peter Conradi - the
celebrated author of The King's Speech - offers an uncompromising
portrayal of Europe's royals and reveals the scandals, excesses,
conflicts and interests hidden behind the pomp of ceremonial garb and
the grandeur of official functions. At a time when Western society
appears to be demanding more equality and democracy, people's
fascination with monarchies shows no signs of waning. Taking the reader
on a journey between past and present, into a world populated by great
celebrities such as Wallis Simpson, Grace Kelly and Princess Diana, as
well as lesser-known and slightly murkier aristocratic figures, The
Great Survivors analyses the reasons behind this apparent paradox by
looking at the history of the main European dynasties - including the
Windsors and their predecessors - and providing a glimpse into their
world, their lives and their secrets.