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By Royal Appointment: The Love Affair That Almost Destroyed The Monarchy
In 1861 nineteen-year-old Bertie, Prince of Wales, began an affair with the Irish actress Nellie Cliffden. By Royal Appointment is a fictionalised account of their story, based on true events.
In the years following the Great Famine of the 1840’s, Queen Victoria has become deeply unpopular in Ireland. In 1861, as an official visit from the monarch is planned to win over her Irish subjects, her son Bertie is dispatched to County Kildare for military training as part of the charm offensive.
Bertie has undergone a life of duty, protocol and a harsh educational regime. As a frantic search is under way to find him a suitable princess to marry, he relishes the prospect of freedom from court life in Ireland. There, he is quickly introduced to a life of decadence and soon presented to the notorious actress Nellie Cliffden.
Nellie is as famous for her shocking behaviour as her beauty. A famine orphan who has climbed the ladder of society by any means she could, even she is shocked to find herself in the company of the Prince of Wales.
When Bertie and Nellie fall in love, the royal family is engulfed in a scandal threatening the future of the monarchy and Nellie becomes a pawn in a dangerous world of power, politics and blackmail.
In the years following the Great Famine of the 1840’s, Queen Victoria has become deeply unpopular in Ireland. In 1861, as an official visit from the monarch is planned to win over her Irish subjects, her son Bertie is dispatched to County Kildare for military training as part of the charm offensive.
Bertie has undergone a life of duty, protocol and a harsh educational regime. As a frantic search is under way to find him a suitable princess to marry, he relishes the prospect of freedom from court life in Ireland. There, he is quickly introduced to a life of decadence and soon presented to the notorious actress Nellie Cliffden.
Nellie is as famous for her shocking behaviour as her beauty. A famine orphan who has climbed the ladder of society by any means she could, even she is shocked to find herself in the company of the Prince of Wales.
When Bertie and Nellie fall in love, the royal family is engulfed in a scandal threatening the future of the monarchy and Nellie becomes a pawn in a dangerous world of power, politics and blackmail.
450 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2018
About the author
A. O'Connor
21 books101 followersA. O'Connor is the bestselling author of The House, The Secrets of Armstrong House, The Left Handed Marriage and The Footman. A graduate in History and English from the National University of Ireland Maynooth and Trinity College Dublin, the author has contributed to two collections of short stories in aid of Barnardos Charity and played a key role in A.M.D's Fighting Blindness campaign. The House has been translated into German and the Russian edition is due for publication in 2016.
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November 22, 2018
By Royal Appointment is the latest novel from bestselling Irish author A. O’ Connor and is a slight departure for him, as it is his first fictionalised account of real events.
In 1861 nineteen-year-old Bertie, Prince of Wales, began an affair with the Irish actress Nellie Cliffden.
‘A. O’ Connor’s dazzling new novel brings to life the true, and until now, little known story of a relationship that rocked the establishment and caused a decade long bitter feud within the royal family.’
Just published with Poolbeg Press, By Royal Appointment is a treat for all who love historical fiction. It’s fascinating and it’s scandalous….
Have you ever heard of Nellie Cliffden? Well neither did I…until now!
Nellie Cliffden was an enigmatic Irish actress who caused quite a stir in 1861.
After the horrors of the Irish Famine there was a restlessness among the Irish. With a dramatically reduced population, through death and emigration, the Irish were understandably angry and frustrated with the lack of support they felt they received from England. Queen Victoria was very aware that she was in a very precarious situation and made a decision that a visit to Ireland was required, in the hope of re-establishing her popularity there.
While this visit to Ireland was being organised, Bertie, her son the Prince of Wales, set in motion his own plans. It is well documented that Bertie had a very strained relationship with his parents. Growing up, he never was quite what Queen Victoria, and her husband Albert, were hoping for. On so many levels he disappointed them, with Bertie very much aware of their feelings. Any child growing up seeks the approval and love of their parents and Bertie was no different. He hoped that a spell in military training would meet with their favour, so he embarked on a trip to The Curragh barracks in Co. Kildare. With his parents planning a visit to The Curragh for an inspection during his time there, Bertie was hopeful that he could excel at the military exercises and would finally achieve their longed for approval . But, as history has shown, this was not how things turned out.
Bertie arrived in The Curragh with a spring in his step, looking forward to swapping his royal duties for military ones. His fellow officers were initially very wary of having a member of the monarchy on site and were not too impressed by having to alter their ‘night-time’ activities to accommodate the Prince of Wales. Bertie struggled with the training and it was clear to all that his career in the military would be short-lived. During his stay a few fellow officers decided that Bertie needed to be introduced to a rather different experience while in Ireland.
Before Bertie left England it was made quite clear to him that the search was on for a suitable bride, a match that would benefit the monarchy. It was time for Bertie to settle down..but Bertie had very different ideas. He was nineteen and had no notion of marrying anyone, no matter their lineage or their beauty. Yet again Bertie disappointed his parents, this time rebelling in rather a dramatic manner.
Bertie was to make the acquaintance of a number of ladies while in Ireland, but it was the Irish actress Nellie Cliffden who stole his heart. Nellie was a famine orphan, perhaps one of the Curragh Wrens, who made a name for herself both on and off the stage of the Music Halls. Nellie was a high-class prostitute with the ability to steal the heart of many a man. When Bertie and Nellie met, their feelings were quite mutual. Bertie disregarded the possible scandal it would cause as he got caught up in this very passionate and daring love affair. He became quite infatuated with Nellie and, with the assistance of his officer friends, he arranged to meet Nellie on a number of occasions, always, and very naively, in the belief that it would remain a secret. But as was destined to happen, news of the affair leaked and word reached the ear of the court, and ultimately Queen Victoria.
Bertie and Nellie Cliffden’s affair was an embarrassment to the court. With the American Civil War creating problems for England, Queen Victoria and Albert were understandably distressed by Bertie’s behaviour. His reputation would make him untouchable as a suitable husband, therefore causing the Royal Family a serious headache, as Bertie was heir to the throne.
A. O’ Connor has written an engrossing novel about a fascinating subject that will appeal to all. I have since researched Nellie Cliffden and found it impossible to find an image of her, making her even more mysterious and her story more appealing. Nellie’s character is one of confusion in many ways. She was most definitely street-wise yet, throughout the novel, her behaviour is quite innocent. Did she really believe there could be a future for her in Buckingham Palace? I expect there is a little artistic licence by the author in this regard!
Bertie did eventually marry when he returned home, but not until after his father’s untimely death, which his mother always blamed him for. The atmosphere between mother and son deteriorated rapidly over the following years, as the consequences of Bertie’s activities were always present. What happened to Nellie Cliffden is quite blurred but her name will forever be remembered as ‘the Irish woman who nearly brought down the monarchy.’
By Royal Appointment is a very entertaining novel packed with scandal and drama. It is a story of passion and temptation, a coming-of-age story of a young man whose misfortune was to fall for the wrong woman. In the words of Poolbeg Press ‘in this year of happy royal events, By Royal Appointment is a timely reminder that not all royal affairs end as fairy tales’
In 1861 nineteen-year-old Bertie, Prince of Wales, began an affair with the Irish actress Nellie Cliffden.
‘A. O’ Connor’s dazzling new novel brings to life the true, and until now, little known story of a relationship that rocked the establishment and caused a decade long bitter feud within the royal family.’
Just published with Poolbeg Press, By Royal Appointment is a treat for all who love historical fiction. It’s fascinating and it’s scandalous….
Have you ever heard of Nellie Cliffden? Well neither did I…until now!
Nellie Cliffden was an enigmatic Irish actress who caused quite a stir in 1861.
After the horrors of the Irish Famine there was a restlessness among the Irish. With a dramatically reduced population, through death and emigration, the Irish were understandably angry and frustrated with the lack of support they felt they received from England. Queen Victoria was very aware that she was in a very precarious situation and made a decision that a visit to Ireland was required, in the hope of re-establishing her popularity there.
While this visit to Ireland was being organised, Bertie, her son the Prince of Wales, set in motion his own plans. It is well documented that Bertie had a very strained relationship with his parents. Growing up, he never was quite what Queen Victoria, and her husband Albert, were hoping for. On so many levels he disappointed them, with Bertie very much aware of their feelings. Any child growing up seeks the approval and love of their parents and Bertie was no different. He hoped that a spell in military training would meet with their favour, so he embarked on a trip to The Curragh barracks in Co. Kildare. With his parents planning a visit to The Curragh for an inspection during his time there, Bertie was hopeful that he could excel at the military exercises and would finally achieve their longed for approval . But, as history has shown, this was not how things turned out.
Bertie arrived in The Curragh with a spring in his step, looking forward to swapping his royal duties for military ones. His fellow officers were initially very wary of having a member of the monarchy on site and were not too impressed by having to alter their ‘night-time’ activities to accommodate the Prince of Wales. Bertie struggled with the training and it was clear to all that his career in the military would be short-lived. During his stay a few fellow officers decided that Bertie needed to be introduced to a rather different experience while in Ireland.
Before Bertie left England it was made quite clear to him that the search was on for a suitable bride, a match that would benefit the monarchy. It was time for Bertie to settle down..but Bertie had very different ideas. He was nineteen and had no notion of marrying anyone, no matter their lineage or their beauty. Yet again Bertie disappointed his parents, this time rebelling in rather a dramatic manner.
Bertie was to make the acquaintance of a number of ladies while in Ireland, but it was the Irish actress Nellie Cliffden who stole his heart. Nellie was a famine orphan, perhaps one of the Curragh Wrens, who made a name for herself both on and off the stage of the Music Halls. Nellie was a high-class prostitute with the ability to steal the heart of many a man. When Bertie and Nellie met, their feelings were quite mutual. Bertie disregarded the possible scandal it would cause as he got caught up in this very passionate and daring love affair. He became quite infatuated with Nellie and, with the assistance of his officer friends, he arranged to meet Nellie on a number of occasions, always, and very naively, in the belief that it would remain a secret. But as was destined to happen, news of the affair leaked and word reached the ear of the court, and ultimately Queen Victoria.
Bertie and Nellie Cliffden’s affair was an embarrassment to the court. With the American Civil War creating problems for England, Queen Victoria and Albert were understandably distressed by Bertie’s behaviour. His reputation would make him untouchable as a suitable husband, therefore causing the Royal Family a serious headache, as Bertie was heir to the throne.
A. O’ Connor has written an engrossing novel about a fascinating subject that will appeal to all. I have since researched Nellie Cliffden and found it impossible to find an image of her, making her even more mysterious and her story more appealing. Nellie’s character is one of confusion in many ways. She was most definitely street-wise yet, throughout the novel, her behaviour is quite innocent. Did she really believe there could be a future for her in Buckingham Palace? I expect there is a little artistic licence by the author in this regard!
Bertie did eventually marry when he returned home, but not until after his father’s untimely death, which his mother always blamed him for. The atmosphere between mother and son deteriorated rapidly over the following years, as the consequences of Bertie’s activities were always present. What happened to Nellie Cliffden is quite blurred but her name will forever be remembered as ‘the Irish woman who nearly brought down the monarchy.’
By Royal Appointment is a very entertaining novel packed with scandal and drama. It is a story of passion and temptation, a coming-of-age story of a young man whose misfortune was to fall for the wrong woman. In the words of Poolbeg Press ‘in this year of happy royal events, By Royal Appointment is a timely reminder that not all royal affairs end as fairy tales’
April 28, 2020
This was actually a 3.5 read for me but I decided against bumping it up to 4 stars. I knew every little about Bertie, the oldest son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, and his affair at the age of 19 with Irish actress Nellie Cliffden. Of course he will become King when Victoria dies and his family is worried that he isn't strong enough emotionally to lead his country (on a side note: he will be a very popular monarch). Evidently this affair caused quite the scandal in England and Europe. I did enjoy reading about the historical events and political maneuvers but the dialogue at times seemed forced and not natural.
May 5, 2023
Fun to Read
First historical fiction book during the time of the reign of Queen Victoria that I have read. This is based on the true relationship between Bertie and Nellie Cliffden, who was an Irish actress and prostitute. Nellie is a frustrating character because she can be smart at times and then so clueless at others. All in all it's a fun read and I would have rated it five stars but for the obvious grammar errors.
First historical fiction book during the time of the reign of Queen Victoria that I have read. This is based on the true relationship between Bertie and Nellie Cliffden, who was an Irish actress and prostitute. Nellie is a frustrating character because she can be smart at times and then so clueless at others. All in all it's a fun read and I would have rated it five stars but for the obvious grammar errors.
October 23, 2018
Review to follow...
November 10, 2018
I love A O Connor's historical fiction and his books are an automatic buy for me. However, this one just did not grab me at all.
To begin with, Nellie, didn't appeal to me. Yes she had a hard life and yes she made something of herself but when it came to the affair with Bertie she was totally naive and gullible. She was living in fantasy land and it just didn't fit for me with her personality. I would also have liked some information at the end about Sadie, real or not.
James was an extremely unlikable person. His character was very well written but again I couldn't take to him.
I'm always wary with books that are fictional stories about real life people. I usually avoid them because what's the point really. You're no wiser at the end than at the beginning about the people concerned. I read this because of the author.
It won't put me off his other books. For anyone new to his writing I'd recommend they start with the Armstrong House trilogy. A fantastic read.
To begin with, Nellie, didn't appeal to me. Yes she had a hard life and yes she made something of herself but when it came to the affair with Bertie she was totally naive and gullible. She was living in fantasy land and it just didn't fit for me with her personality. I would also have liked some information at the end about Sadie, real or not.
James was an extremely unlikable person. His character was very well written but again I couldn't take to him.
I'm always wary with books that are fictional stories about real life people. I usually avoid them because what's the point really. You're no wiser at the end than at the beginning about the people concerned. I read this because of the author.
It won't put me off his other books. For anyone new to his writing I'd recommend they start with the Armstrong House trilogy. A fantastic read.
November 8, 2018
Review of BY ROYAL APPOINTMENT by A. O'Connor
As soon as I read the description of this fine fictionalization of historical events, I was immediately reminded of a similar situation within the British Monarchy, only 75 years later. I refer to the abdication of the throne by King Edward VIII in 1936, due to his love for the American divorced commoner Wallis Warfield Simpson. In BY ROYAL APPOINTMENT, author A. O'Connor capably and giftedly illustrates the encounter and subsequent consequences of Bertie, Prince of Wales, an impetuous and willful young gentleman, easily diverted, readily debauched, and an equally misbehaving actress, Nellie Cliffden, in Ireland. O'Connor vividly brings history to life, drawing real historical figures so cleverly that we feel much as if they are our neighbours and friends.
As soon as I read the description of this fine fictionalization of historical events, I was immediately reminded of a similar situation within the British Monarchy, only 75 years later. I refer to the abdication of the throne by King Edward VIII in 1936, due to his love for the American divorced commoner Wallis Warfield Simpson. In BY ROYAL APPOINTMENT, author A. O'Connor capably and giftedly illustrates the encounter and subsequent consequences of Bertie, Prince of Wales, an impetuous and willful young gentleman, easily diverted, readily debauched, and an equally misbehaving actress, Nellie Cliffden, in Ireland. O'Connor vividly brings history to life, drawing real historical figures so cleverly that we feel much as if they are our neighbours and friends.
April 23, 2023
This was a good book and I loved the story-line and the history behind the novel. It was easy to read and incorporated relevant historical points that were interesting. The book described the relationship between the young Prince of Wales, son of Queen Victoria, and Nellie an Irish show girl who also offered her service to men
December 15, 2018
Bertie, Prince of Wales, has no wish to search for a princess to wed and just wants to enjoy himself away from his parents’ watchful, judgmental eye. Introduced to Nellie Cliffden, a notorious actress and “companion” for hire, he falls in love and is drawn into a double life to keep her with him.
The most interesting part of this novel was the history behind it. Bertie did have a long history of mistresses in his life, particularly actresses. It was easy to feel for the young man, who struggled to live up to the expectations of his parents. However, this sympathy did not extend to the actions of Bertie and Nellie when they embarked on an affair.
It would be easy to point the finger of blame at James, who managed the clients Nellie was “companion” to and introduced the couple. However, Bertie and Nellie chose to ignore the warnings of having an affair that would only lead to scandal. There is blame to share all around, and I can’t say I liked any of these people.
The story is written in a simple manner. I didn’t much care for the jumping back and forth in time. It didn’t add much to the story. All scenes where Bertie and Nellie sleep together are mercifully behind closed door, even though we know what they were doing.
Although not a favorite of mine, I would recommend this to readers looking for a historical read based on true events. I received a copy from Library Things for reviewing purposes.
The most interesting part of this novel was the history behind it. Bertie did have a long history of mistresses in his life, particularly actresses. It was easy to feel for the young man, who struggled to live up to the expectations of his parents. However, this sympathy did not extend to the actions of Bertie and Nellie when they embarked on an affair.
It would be easy to point the finger of blame at James, who managed the clients Nellie was “companion” to and introduced the couple. However, Bertie and Nellie chose to ignore the warnings of having an affair that would only lead to scandal. There is blame to share all around, and I can’t say I liked any of these people.
The story is written in a simple manner. I didn’t much care for the jumping back and forth in time. It didn’t add much to the story. All scenes where Bertie and Nellie sleep together are mercifully behind closed door, even though we know what they were doing.
Although not a favorite of mine, I would recommend this to readers looking for a historical read based on true events. I received a copy from Library Things for reviewing purposes.
November 5, 2018
Nellie is an actress in 1860s Dublin, Ireland who enchants the crowds of the music hall with her singing voice by day; However, she entices the gentlemen of the city with her amorous skills by night. As a child of the Famine, once turned out of the workhouses, she had no choice but to take what life and a handsome gentleman offered her: a life that paid the bills, but lacked in love. Albert Edward, or Bertie to his family and friends, is the son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert and the heir to the British Empire's throne. But Bertie is not suited to life as king or for anything for that matter according to his parents. He is a constant disappointment who is never intelligent enough or sophisticated enough to live up to his parents and royal society's expectations. When Bertie is suddenly sent to Ireland for a military appointment, his life is changed forever when Nellie is thrust into his inner circle. Suddenly the young prince finds that perhaps she is the one person who believes in and supports him...perhaps the only one who can truly love him for who he is...simple, unpretentious Bertie. However, this is not the 21st century where royalty can marry whomever they choose, it is Queen Victoria's England and her son will marry a princess, not consort with a common, low, scandalous actress. Will Bertie and Nellie's love survive to surpass the ages?
This was an excellent book and I read it in 2 days! I loved the story-line and the history behind the novel. I would love to see this develop into a series, with the next book about Bertie's son George V, and then his son George VI and Edward VIII. This would be a very interesting series about the British monarchs male heirs of Queen Victoria....fascinating!!! Thank you so much LibraryThing Early Reviewers for the opportunity to read this book! I will be on the lookout for more by A. O'Connor!
This was an excellent book and I read it in 2 days! I loved the story-line and the history behind the novel. I would love to see this develop into a series, with the next book about Bertie's son George V, and then his son George VI and Edward VIII. This would be a very interesting series about the British monarchs male heirs of Queen Victoria....fascinating!!! Thank you so much LibraryThing Early Reviewers for the opportunity to read this book! I will be on the lookout for more by A. O'Connor!
September 5, 2019
Another great book by A.O'Connor. I've read 8 of his books this summer and each one is as good or better than the one I'd read previously. His books always have the undercurrent of showing good and evil and this book was no exception. By Royal Appointment starts with a commoner Nellie Cliffden, who is a singer at the Palace Theater in Dublin, but she's also used by her "friend" James as a whore to his upper class friends and acquaintances. James ends up setting her up with the Prince of Wales, who's in Dublin to train to become an officer in the military. Nellie and the Prince end up falling madly in love, but what's to come of a relationship between a commoner and royalty? Nellie dreams of a life with the Prince and he moves her to London to be closer to him. She finds out no matter how much you love someone there are rules when it comes to falling for royalty. The Queen and the public are outraged at the Prince's behavior, but it is Nellie they are blaming. Meanwhile James continues to use Nellie for his own gain. The story is about the affair, but also about the scandal that almost ruined the Monarchy. It's a story of love, betrayal, class differences and deceit in the late 1800's, but also a story of survival. Nellie is a survivor, someone the reader will cheer for even though she's got a checkered past, she's strong, independent and makes the foolish mistake of falling in love with the wrong man. A true love story that never should have been. I strongly recommend not only this book, but all his books. I've read 8 of them so far this summer and know when I pick up a book by A.O'Connor it's going to be entertaining, enthralling and will capture me from page 1. Happy Reading!
November 5, 2018
I received a free copy from Hidden Gems of By Royal Appointment to provide a fair an honest review.
The dialogue was well written with a quick pace that keeps the reader interested and included historical points that helped orient the reader to the proper time period. That said, I found the quick pace around the meeting and romance of Bertie and Nellie made it hard to imagine the flame of the relationship reaching such a point that the two almost brought themselves and the monarchy to a ruin. I would have liked to have more time spent or just a specific instance showing us why the two were so enamored with each other. I was unable to truly understand the characters and more than once I tossed my phone to the side, aggravated by the naivety of Bertie and Nellie. That said, it is entirely possible this is an accurate representation of how these two fools would have acted and the author certainly succeeded in provoking me to continue reading even if it was just to enjoy the disastrous end we all expected.
By the end of the novel, I found myself relieved to be finished if for no other reason than to save my phone from being tossed across the room again. I am disappointed that I was unable to find a character that didn't irritate me but that comes down to personal preference. The novel was easy to read and incorporated relevant historical points that were interesting. While I don’t plan on reading this novel again, I do plan on seeking out other work by this author when I plan to read in this genre again.
November 15, 2018
Firstly I would like to thank Poolbeg Press and Librarything for giving me a free ebook in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this book. The characters were written well and the storyline was intriguing. I didn't know the real life story behind this book (which was less romantic) but I am glad I didn't otherwise I wouldn't have believed the love at all.
My favorite part was actually getting bto know Nellie before she met the Prince of Wales. She is strong willed and stubborn but definitely hiding her weaknesses whenever possible. Albeit she is naive about the world beyond Dublin, I still really liked her character.
Bertie was a good character too, after awhile. He is definitely hard on himself and had no confidence. The change that Nellie made in his self esteem was my favorite part of their relationship and I like to think it made him a better King later on.
The ending was a little disappointing to me and not what I expected, but once I read the author's note with a little bit of real background and looked into it myself I realized that he was trying to stick close to the real deal instead of making up this fairy tale ending. I appreciate that, but also wish I got more of Nellie and what she did with her life.
Overall 3.5 stars which I will bump to 4 on Goodreads, because I did thoroughly enjoy this book and it kept me up so I could finish it.
I enjoyed this book. The characters were written well and the storyline was intriguing. I didn't know the real life story behind this book (which was less romantic) but I am glad I didn't otherwise I wouldn't have believed the love at all.
My favorite part was actually getting bto know Nellie before she met the Prince of Wales. She is strong willed and stubborn but definitely hiding her weaknesses whenever possible. Albeit she is naive about the world beyond Dublin, I still really liked her character.
Bertie was a good character too, after awhile. He is definitely hard on himself and had no confidence. The change that Nellie made in his self esteem was my favorite part of their relationship and I like to think it made him a better King later on.
The ending was a little disappointing to me and not what I expected, but once I read the author's note with a little bit of real background and looked into it myself I realized that he was trying to stick close to the real deal instead of making up this fairy tale ending. I appreciate that, but also wish I got more of Nellie and what she did with her life.
Overall 3.5 stars which I will bump to 4 on Goodreads, because I did thoroughly enjoy this book and it kept me up so I could finish it.
December 30, 2018
I am not sure what audience this is geared toward. If it’s for middle adult readers then I would say it’s perfect. If it’s for any other age group I would say the writing style is too immature, which is why I think it's perfect for middle readers. I will give the author the benefit of the doubt in that regard, but I'm not sure, which is why I'm giving it three stars. I wasn't familiar with the story at all so that was interesting. I did not feel particularly attached to the characters, though, and thought they were sort of petulant and spoiled (Another reason I thought it might be a middle reader --it seemed like the concept of being in love for the first time and having your family oppose it, regardless of station, might resonate with younger teens). I was very pleased with the ending. At least with James. With Bertie it seemed a little more moralistic about putting country before himself. So I gave it three stars since I really couldn't figure that out. If it is aimed at that age group I might give it four? I don't know enough about the history to comment on the accuracy.
This ebook was received as an ARC from publisher through the Library Thing Early Reviewers program. All opinions are completely my own.
This ebook was received as an ARC from publisher through the Library Thing Early Reviewers program. All opinions are completely my own.
April 9, 2023
I don't know how to review this book. It is well written and a good read, it just wasn't what I was hoping for. What I wanted was a blazing hot tawdry love affair that had to be ended to save the monarchy.
Instead, Bertie as he was affectionately called is completely sheltered. He has never been around women, alcohol, and other "vices". When he meets Nellie he is immediately taken with her powerful stage presence. In his innocence he falls in love with her. Or maybe just thinks he does. I'm not 100% sure. Without giving a thought to the monarchy he starts a love affair with her.
Nellie whom I'm not sure how much of this story is true, is a survivor of the famine. She gets tricked into being a prostitute by James. Then she gets tricked into becoming involved with Bertie. She naively thinks that they could end up together. What girl wouldn't?
Of course this can't end well.
It is a fact that Queen Victoria blamed the death of her beloved Albert on this trist. It is also fact that Bertie cheats on his wife Alexandra with multiple women. How does this dope figure that out? He practically had to be led by the nose into Nellie in this story.
Again. Well written. Just not what I was hoping for.
Instead, Bertie as he was affectionately called is completely sheltered. He has never been around women, alcohol, and other "vices". When he meets Nellie he is immediately taken with her powerful stage presence. In his innocence he falls in love with her. Or maybe just thinks he does. I'm not 100% sure. Without giving a thought to the monarchy he starts a love affair with her.
Nellie whom I'm not sure how much of this story is true, is a survivor of the famine. She gets tricked into being a prostitute by James. Then she gets tricked into becoming involved with Bertie. She naively thinks that they could end up together. What girl wouldn't?
Of course this can't end well.
It is a fact that Queen Victoria blamed the death of her beloved Albert on this trist. It is also fact that Bertie cheats on his wife Alexandra with multiple women. How does this dope figure that out? He practically had to be led by the nose into Nellie in this story.
Again. Well written. Just not what I was hoping for.
April 12, 2023
Bertie in Ireland
Great historical fiction about Bertie (oldest son of Victoria and Albert) and heir apparent as he went to Ireland for basic officer military training. Without previous exposure to military life he was at a negative position before he started. The other military officers thought he should also be exposed to women who were paid to entertain. Had it been a fling things may have been different but Bertie fell in love and that love almost brought down the Monarchy. Victoria thought it brought about the premature death of Albert and refused to allow Bertie to function as the rightful King after Albert's death. The reader will feel sympathy to Bertie, hatred for James, and perhaps a bit of dislike for Victoria and more respect for Albert. Author is outstanding with historical research.
Great historical fiction about Bertie (oldest son of Victoria and Albert) and heir apparent as he went to Ireland for basic officer military training. Without previous exposure to military life he was at a negative position before he started. The other military officers thought he should also be exposed to women who were paid to entertain. Had it been a fling things may have been different but Bertie fell in love and that love almost brought down the Monarchy. Victoria thought it brought about the premature death of Albert and refused to allow Bertie to function as the rightful King after Albert's death. The reader will feel sympathy to Bertie, hatred for James, and perhaps a bit of dislike for Victoria and more respect for Albert. Author is outstanding with historical research.
December 14, 2018
No one can predict who they will fall in love with . Empires have fallen , families have been destroyed, and hearts have been shattered in the name of love. Ireland in 1861 had experienced years of famine and those lucky enough to have survived did so out of necessity compromising the values they once had . This was story of Nellie who became a show girl and offered her service to men . She soon became involved with the young Prince of Wales, a relationship doomed . The book described their relationship and how Nellie’s unsavoury friend James who had groomed Nellie , now tried to indoctrinate himself with the Prince . We see how family dynamics, politics and greed shape empires and the rise and fall of men and women. A decent read .
March 22, 2023
stiff conversation
The premise is good. Victoria’s reluctance to honor her son seems to be a given. The machinations of Marston were one-dimensional. Nellie could not have been as she was portrayed. Either she was wise, or she was deluded by love, but to be both was not believable. The author’s writing was clear and well-edited. It was a book that was a bit slow to get through, though I think it’s worth reading. It was rather pie-in-the-sky to see how it ended-and one still needs to wonder if James ever caught up to the person he blamed for thwarting his greedy, social-climbing dreams. Because he was in a society governed by class, he couldn’t be blamed for trying rise in status. His methods were dirty, though.
The premise is good. Victoria’s reluctance to honor her son seems to be a given. The machinations of Marston were one-dimensional. Nellie could not have been as she was portrayed. Either she was wise, or she was deluded by love, but to be both was not believable. The author’s writing was clear and well-edited. It was a book that was a bit slow to get through, though I think it’s worth reading. It was rather pie-in-the-sky to see how it ended-and one still needs to wonder if James ever caught up to the person he blamed for thwarting his greedy, social-climbing dreams. Because he was in a society governed by class, he couldn’t be blamed for trying rise in status. His methods were dirty, though.
March 29, 2023
Enjoyable fiction about real people
I'm curious now to know if Queen Victoria was really being heavily pushed almost demanded of to elevate Bertie as Prince Albert's replacement. I found that conversation incredibly hard to believe. The curse words used by the characters seemed very 21st century. It is also extremely incredulous that someone like Nellie would choose not to accept expensive gifts. Not hard to believe at all is how men would have abused and used someone like Nellie. Overall it is a great PG book which is perfect for someone but interested in reading overly sexualized accounts or a litany of cursing.
I'm curious now to know if Queen Victoria was really being heavily pushed almost demanded of to elevate Bertie as Prince Albert's replacement. I found that conversation incredibly hard to believe. The curse words used by the characters seemed very 21st century. It is also extremely incredulous that someone like Nellie would choose not to accept expensive gifts. Not hard to believe at all is how men would have abused and used someone like Nellie. Overall it is a great PG book which is perfect for someone but interested in reading overly sexualized accounts or a litany of cursing.
September 17, 2019
A good story, one I had not known. As a one of book, interesting. Sadly, I read the House trilogy first which was so good, but by the time I was half way through this one, the formula Mr. O'Connor uses is so clear I knew, pretty much, how it would end and then I went on to read the Left Handed Marriage, and it was so clear I skipped a lot of it to see exactly how he would manage to give a somewhat different twist to that one. Clearly he is a talented writer. He should trust his instincts and just write a nice tale without letting his very obvious issues interfere.
April 11, 2023
Interesting, but the female character is totally DUMB! Really DUMB! Did she really think the Prince of Wales would marry an Irish music hall singer and prostitute?
The background is interesting but the story is too hard to believe. If the Royal Family is shocked by the Prince’s behavior, what about the dozen or so mistresses he had after he married? Princess Alexandra was the most cheated upon Royal since the wife of Louis XV. Another reason for getting rid of the monarchy.
The background is interesting but the story is too hard to believe. If the Royal Family is shocked by the Prince’s behavior, what about the dozen or so mistresses he had after he married? Princess Alexandra was the most cheated upon Royal since the wife of Louis XV. Another reason for getting rid of the monarchy.
April 22, 2023
A love story
Bertie Mets Nellie through an officer in Ireland. He is captivated by her. She is frank, bold and he is totally smitten. They see each other frequently. As fate will have it, another officer is caught in a married woman's room and the furious husband is out for blood. He starts a scandal that eventually reaches Buckingham Palace and Bertie's family. Read how it changes everyone.
Bertie Mets Nellie through an officer in Ireland. He is captivated by her. She is frank, bold and he is totally smitten. They see each other frequently. As fate will have it, another officer is caught in a married woman's room and the furious husband is out for blood. He starts a scandal that eventually reaches Buckingham Palace and Bertie's family. Read how it changes everyone.
March 25, 2023
Bertie and Nellie
Queen Victoria's son Bertie is sent for military training and whilst there for the first time he enjoys a beer with the boys and is introduced to Nellie a chorus girl. Her friend James sneaks her into the Princes quarters at camp and thus begins a royal affair.....
Queen Victoria's son Bertie is sent for military training and whilst there for the first time he enjoys a beer with the boys and is introduced to Nellie a chorus girl. Her friend James sneaks her into the Princes quarters at camp and thus begins a royal affair.....
April 23, 2023
quite interesting
I cannot imagine life in a fishbowl, especially when the bowl is a castle and the swimmers are royalty. Such was the life of the man who would become Edward VII. Criticized constantly by his parents, he found love in a most unfortunate pair of arms. By Royal Appointment is the story of that love. The book is very well written and held my attention throughout.
I cannot imagine life in a fishbowl, especially when the bowl is a castle and the swimmers are royalty. Such was the life of the man who would become Edward VII. Criticized constantly by his parents, he found love in a most unfortunate pair of arms. By Royal Appointment is the story of that love. The book is very well written and held my attention throughout.
June 26, 2023
A great story of a strong woman with charming naivete but wise senses. Though this is fiction, it is based in fact and seems so true as to be mistaken for a history. Nellie impresses me.
A strong woman of common birth at the very edges of the genteel British aristocracy, Nellie does what she has to do for herself and for those around her.
Well worth the read.
A strong woman of common birth at the very edges of the genteel British aristocracy, Nellie does what she has to do for herself and for those around her.
Well worth the read.
December 16, 2018
Fascinating
I really enjoy A O’Connor’s historical novels and this was no exception. I really had no idea about Queen Victoria and her relationship with Prince Albert. Really interesting read, obviously it is a novel but fascinating way of looking at it.
I really enjoy A O’Connor’s historical novels and this was no exception. I really had no idea about Queen Victoria and her relationship with Prince Albert. Really interesting read, obviously it is a novel but fascinating way of looking at it.
January 5, 2019
Another great book
Love A O’Conners books. This was not a disappointment.
This is a story about the affair between Nellie Clifden and the Prince Wales. Their love was strong but life sometimes has a way of turning the tides.
Highly recommend this book.
Love A O’Conners books. This was not a disappointment.
This is a story about the affair between Nellie Clifden and the Prince Wales. Their love was strong but life sometimes has a way of turning the tides.
Highly recommend this book.
September 2, 2019
How far will you go to keep something you can not have?
Very well written and enjoyed the plot. Was hard to put the book down; as I was engrossed with what was going to happen next. Recommend reading.
Very well written and enjoyed the plot. Was hard to put the book down; as I was engrossed with what was going to happen next. Recommend reading.
November 26, 2019
A Royal affair
Enjoyable read, believable characters.
Nellie was the most enjoyable. Bertie was so childlike,but it was understandable. A little history, a little romance, a little intrigue. Just enough for a good read.
Enjoyable read, believable characters.
Nellie was the most enjoyable. Bertie was so childlike,but it was understandable. A little history, a little romance, a little intrigue. Just enough for a good read.
February 29, 2020
Another very entertaining page turner by one of my favourite authors. It highlights the pressures and restrictions of public figures and the downfall that can await if you don’t play ball. Great story with the usual twists and timelines this author is so good at. You will love it.
March 22, 2023
Teeming?
I find the writing skills far more simplistic than the author's bio suggests. A thesaurus would be a useful tool, especially when they are tempted to use the word 'teeming'. It is used a number of times; twice on the same page!
I find the writing skills far more simplistic than the author's bio suggests. A thesaurus would be a useful tool, especially when they are tempted to use the word 'teeming'. It is used a number of times; twice on the same page!
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