This debut novel captures the glamorous world of the amoral court and the struggle of the city. A vivid imagining of the restoration London of Charles II with Nell Gwynn as a powerful and engaging heroine set in the busy world of the theater. I loved this book.'-Sharon Kay Penman, author of Devil's Brood, ' A real triumph. Priya Parmar is a writer to watch.' Philippa Gregory Author of The Other Boleyn Girl, 'Clever.

' A real triumph'Š.A vivid imagining of the restoration London of Charles II with Nell Gwynn as a powerful and engaging heroine set in the busy world of the theater. Telling the story through a collection of vibrant seventeenth-century voices ranging from Ellen's diary to playbills, letters, gossip columns, and home remedies, Priya Parmar brings to life the story of an endearing and delightful heroine. Despite his reputation as a libertine, Ellen wholly captures his heart-and he hers-but even the most powerful love isn't enough to stave off the gossip and bitter court politics that accompany a royal romance. Ellen grows up on the stage, experiencing first love and heartbreak and eventually becoming the mistress of Charles II. Soon Ellen is dressed in the finest fashions, charming the theatrical, literary, and royal luminaries of Restoration England. As her roles evolve from supporting to starring, the scope of her life broadens as well. She quickly earns a place in the company, narrowly avoiding the life of prostitution to which her sister has already succumbed.

While selling oranges in the Theatre Royal, Covent Garden, sweet and sprightly Ellen 'Nell' Gwyn impresses the theater's proprietors with a wit and sparkle that belie her youth and poverty.

Exit the actress by priya parmar