Pledge of Better Times

A sweeping tale of ambition, treachery, and passion incorporating historical figures and events. For generations Lady Diana de Vere's family loyally served England's crown. But after King Charles II's untimely death, her father firmly opposes James II's tyranny. Charles Beauclerk, Duke of St. Albans-the late king's bastard son by actress Nell Gwyn-also rebels against his newly crowned uncle's manipulation. Secretly pledging to wed Diana, he departs for the Continent to become a soldier. Political and religious turmoil bring about revolution and yet another coronation before Charles returns to claim his promised bride. As companion to Queen Mary Stuart, Diana has followed her de Vere forbears into royal service. She expects Charles to abandon his military career after marriage, but he proves unwilling to join the ranks of the courtiers he despises and mistrusts. In palace corridors and within their own household the young duke and duchess confront betrayals, scandals, and tragedies that threaten to divide them. And neither the privileges of birth nor proximity to the throne can ensure their security, their advancement-or their happiness. About the Author: Margaret Porter is an award-winning, bestselling novelist whose lifelong study of British history inspires her fiction and her travels. A former stage actress, she has also worked in film, television, and radio.