Small excerpts of histories infamous notables. If you have an interest in history most of this is just a repeat but for the less initiated this gives a brief bio to some interesting folks of yesteryear. ( )

An quick, entertaining look at some royal (and papal) scandals in history. It's like the National Enquirer for history. ( )

Michael Farquhar’s “Scandal” series is simply fantastic. If school history books included the subject matter presented here along with all the dry dates and places, more students would enjoy history class I’m sure! Many readers are enchanted by historical figures, as indicated by the popularity of such writers as Philippa Gregory, or Jean Plaidy. We want to hear about the sordid affairs of Henry VIII, Louis XVI, and other famous dead people! But, the author doesn’t give us fiction. He digs into the past of many royals across the centuries for the juicy stories that actually happened, but aren’t necessarily important.

There were books before this one, most notably “Royal Babylon,” that made a similar attempt. However, that book was plodding and the writing too formal and dissertation-like. This is where Farquhar shines. He tells each anecdote with simple, elegant language that is easy to read and flows like a fiction novel. It’s like reading an episode of “Access Hollywood” for the celebrities of previous centuries. Some will argue that he has his facts wrong, or “it didn’t happen that way.” They’re missing the point. This is meant to titillate, entertain and give readers a peak into a less than glorious past. And it may just inspire some people to look further for more information on some of the historical subjects depicted. Highly recommended!

Other books in the series:
A Treasury of Great American Scandals
A Treasury of Deception
A Treasury of Foolishly Forgotten Americans ( )

Amusing, but superficial.

What a hoot! The concept of divine destiny brings out the beast in people. A slightly ribald examination of English, French, and Russian royals, with a bonus chapter on popes. ( )