This Is a very moving story about young girl who becomes Queen of England at the age of 18. The queen soon faces the trial of public disapproval. She is expected to marry her cousin Prince Albert who she finds very dull. However, she enjoys the company of Lord Melborne. Even though he is old enough to be her father, he is the only one who takes her seriously. She is under constant scrutiny by those around her. Before reading this book I did not know the requirements of a queen. England became modernized under her rule. Very enjoyable reading.

I learned about the lives of Ireland's firemen. Their families had lives were filled with worry about their loved ones. However, I had a hard time keeping the character's straight. I also thought the book described fire after fire. I found this quite boring.