In this new book, celebrated historian Kate Williams leads us into the world of queens, empresses, princesses, mistresses and ladies-in-waiting, as she unveils their hidden stories and remarkable achievements in this enthralling historical journey.

From the ancient civilisations of Egypt and Mesopotamia to the opulent courts of medieval Europe, this book delves deep into the lives of royal women, lifting the veil on both their trials and triumphs as they navigate political intrigue, family rivalries and personal sacrifices. From Cleopatra and the medieval Empress Matilda, through Tudor queens Catherine of Aragon and Lady Jane Grey, Queen Victoria's contemporaries Yaa Asentewaa of Ghana and Queen Lili kulani of Hawaii, right up to the twentieth century with Princesses Grace of Monaco and Diana, this is an inspiring celebration of the oft-overlooked women who played pivotal roles in shaping history, and can teach us much about the place of royal women in society today.