Books by Richard Davenport-Hines

One May night in 1922, in a grand hotel in Paris, five of the greatest artists of the 20th century sat down to supper.

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.

Auden's dedication as a writer was matched only by his commitment to challenging the received view of political and personal life.