The British monarchy fascinates us, but why wouldn’t it? The list of kings and queens that we have been subjected to features a dazzling cast of characters, and we routinely debate over who deserves the title of greatest monarch in our long history. From William the Conqueror to Henry V, Elizabeth I, Victoria and latterly Elizabeth II – their lives tell the story of our nation. But what makes for a truly successful reign?

Measuring Monarchy provides a completely original outlook as to how to analyse British kings and queens and throws a revisionist Molotov Cocktail into our historical thinking. It puts forward, explains and make the case for five comparative metrics for all UK monarchs: their professional standing, their popular standing with the public, their impact on public finances, how they conducted foreign policy and their preparations for succession.

Tim Hames casts a forensic eye over each king and queen, determining whether their status has been overrated or underrated. What is revealed may surprise you, and some overlooked monarchs are returned to their rightful standing. Taking lessons of the past, Measuring Monarchy also provides insights into how future monarchs must act.