Charles II: the man and the statesman Book

This was a very straight-forward examination of the lives of Charles II and the 2nd Duke of Buckingham. Presented chronologically, it followed Buckingham from childhood through to his death. After his father died in battle, Buckingham was raised with the royal children, and became firm friends with the future Charles II. Hanrahan attributes the survival of the friendship between monarch and duke, despite betrayal, possible murder, potential treason, bankruptcy, and religious differences, to this childhood friendship, when they were closer than brothers. (The Duke of York, the future James II, hated Buckingham, in part because he took the position that should have been James'.)

I really enjoyed this - it was a quick read, clearly written, and seemingly well-researched.

My only quibble is with the title - it really is about Buckingham, not about Charles II, except where their lives were intertwined. There are a few digressions (primarily about mistresses,) but it's mostly Buckingham.