This book investigates the multifaceted roles and perceptions of queenship in Britain between the Restoration and the Victorian era. Clarissa Campbell Orr, a noted historian specializing in early modern and modern British history, draws upon extensive archival research and primary source analysis to explore how female monarchs and consorts navigated and shaped political, social, and cultural landscapes. The work examines the evolving ideologies of monarchy, gender, and power, presenting a nuanced argument about the agency and limitations faced by royal women during this pivotal period.

The book is recognized as a significant contribution to the study of British royal history and gender studies. Scholars have noted its comprehensive scope and detailed analysis of the complex position of queens within the British political and social structure. The work is considered essential reading for understanding the evolution of female power and representation in the monarchy during the 17th, 18th, and early 19th centuries.