The Ring and the Crown: A History of Royal Weddings - Tapa dura

"Four female historians give insights into both public weddings and ones that took place in secret" (Sunday Express)

"The excitement surrounding the marriage of Prince William to Kate Middleton has prompted four of Britain's top historical biographers to look closely at royal weddings from 1066 to the present day. Here, each writer focuses on different areas of interest. Fascinating anecdotal details are revealed in the course of this most informative and entertaining overview of royal weddings through history, some amusing, some poignant, some bawdy. The Ring and the Crown places the royal wedding of the heir to the throne in historical perspective, and it does so with carefully selected illustrations that help make the authors' insights come even more vividly alive." (Press Association)

"One for history buffs and soppy romantics alike, this heavily illustrated tome looks back at previous nuptials from the Norman conquest to Charles and Camilla. It's fascinating to see Wills and Kate's big day put in its historical context" (Bella)

"An absolutely fascinating book, beautifully illustrated . . . a perfect souvenir to keep for future generations: every home should have a copy!" (Country Life)

"Royal marriages since 1066 under a historian's sharp eye" (Telegraph)

As we look forward to the marriage of Harry to Meghan Markle, this book takes an informative and entertaining look back at royal weddings throughout English history.

Anticipation is mounting. The union of Prince Harry and US-born actress and human rights activist Meghan Markle draws closer. What will her dress look like? Who will be on the guest list? And what about the music, the food, the venue?

The Ring and the Crown is the definitive compilation of royal weddings through the ages by four of Britain’s preeminent historical biographers. Alison Weir takes us through medieval, Tudor and Stuart celebrations; Kate Williams illuminates us with Georgian and Victorian nuptials. Sarah Gristwood takes over the baton in 1919, when Westminster Abbey was reinstated as the traditional venue for royal brides and grooms; and Tracy Borman brings us right up to date with Kate and William’s unforgettable ceremony in 2011.

Vivid and dramatic, fascinating and funny, this book covers all types of weddings: from public celebrations surrounded by fanfare, to poignant and private unions, to secret engagements. Full of captivating anecdotal details and carefully selected illustrations, The Ring and the Crown is the ultimate compendium of royal romances.