It can be a long gap between the emergence of fully researched historical biographies.

Her imperturbable self-confidence (Duchesse de Maine) caused Madame de Stael to write that the Duchesse believed in herself the same way she believed in God, without explanation or discussion.

My mother was a politician in my formative years.

If I write that it was a cold day, you can be sure I know it was a cold day because Pepys told us.

The concentration in my book on Marie Antoinette's childhood and on her family influences. It is surprising how some books actually start with her arrival in France!

My mother, who was quite sharp when I was young, became utterly mild.

The clue to book jacket photography is to look friendly and approachable, but not too glamorous.