The author discusses the limitations of Elizabeth I's powers, and reveals ministers' techniques of hood-winking her. Also, her more sinister side when she ordered torture and delighted in bear-baiting. Hibbert recreates the atmosphere of her faction-ridden court and draws a picture of a fascinating and difficult woman, set against the background of her tumultuous times. The author also wrote Africa Explored, Benito Mussolini, Edward VII and Days of the French Revolution.