Royal Flush

I first read this book when I was a young woman. I have always loved history and historical fiction. I felt that this book gave a very close portrayal of the kind of relationship which could develop between "cousins" and very closely related persons, especially noble ones. It made me quite understanding of the bond between CharlesII and his sister---even as he used her for his own ends. I want to read it again and own a copy----even a paperback.

In this novel Irwin recounts the life of Henrietta Anne (Minette) daughter of Charles I of England, and begins when a young Minette and her mother are in exile in France during England's Civil War. Eventually Charles Stuart regains the crown and Minette marries the younger brother of Louis XIV, Philippe Duke of Orléans - but Philippe's temper, vanity and penchant for *pretty* young men are not conducive to wedded bliss and Minette soon find herself growing closer to Louis. Much beyond this I don't want to say - if you're familiar with Minette's history you know what happens and I don't want to spoil it for the rest of you. This is the first book by Irwin I've read and while I enjoyed her writing, but be warned it is dated (first published in 1932) and best taken in small daily doses and not in one lump read. I found myself a bit lost at times with several of the secondary characters and their multiple names/titles and would have appreciated a who's who reference guide, although you don't find those often in older novels. If you've never read anything on Minette and/or the court of Louis XIV I don't recommend this as a starting point - you'll be tossing it by page 100. However, if you are familiar with the period this is a good novel to give you a closer look at Minette's tale.