Richard Davenport-Hines 
Edward VII (Penguin Monarchs) [EPUB ebook] 
The Cosmopolitan King

Like his mother Queen Victoria, Edward VII defined an era. Both reflected the personalties of their central figures: hers grand, imperial and pretty stiff; his no less grand, but much more relaxed and enjoyable. This book conveys Edward’s distinct personality and significant influences. To the despair of his parents, he rebelled as a young man, conducting many affairs and living a life of pleasure. But as king he made a distinct contribution to European diplomacy and — which is little known — to London, laying out the Mall and Admiralty Arch. Richard Davenport-Hines’s book is as enjoyable as its subject and the age he made.