Nancy Mitford carefully unravels the complex character of one of the most brilliant rulers Europe has ever known. Vividly she re-creates Frederick's unhappy youth, dominated by an outrageously ill-tempered father; his very special relationship with Wilhelmine, the sister who resembled him so uncannily; his reforming zeal, which paved the way for a united Germany; and his spectacular wars, which proved him beyond doubt the greatest commander of his age. Among all of the famous figures Nancy Mitford has portrayed, none has made a greater appeal to her than Frederick; whether she is discussing his glee when he persuaded Voltaire to leave Versailles for Prussia, the rococo splendors of his palaces, or his cunning diplomacy, her enthusiasm shines out of every page of this superb biography. -- From publisher's description.