This Sceptred Isle: v.1: Dynasties: Britain's Most Powerful Families by Christopher Lee
Relates how the loyalties of this privileged elite, many of whom are older than the monarchy itself, were tested and rewarded: it also uncovers a multitude of murderous plots, bloody battles, adulteries, intrigues and shocking executions. This first volume looks at the houses of the Godwines, the Despensers and the Percys.