"In my opinion, based on decades of reading, Hilaire Belloc is not only a gifted essayist and social polemicist but also a perceptive biographer of major figures of Western history, especially in the English and French ambits. He had a keen eye for psychology, context, influence, and larger ramifications.'' Dr Peter Kwasniewski

 

Two of Hilaire Belloc’s great histories, Charles II and James II, are back in print via Mysterium Press in premium re-typeset hardback editions. These essential works were first published in 1928 and 1939 and have been out of print for years. 

Charles II and James II are the final instalments in a series of six books, which cover Belloc’s portraits of key figures in English history, from the dawn of the Reformation to the end of the Restoration. 

Charles II profiles the popular and adroit monarch whose whole object was to restore the national kingship. Belloc shows that in the process of weathering a tempestuous course, Charles made fatal acts of compromise to achieve his improbable task. 

James II tells the story of the last king of England’s ancient monarchy. Honourable and determined, but blighted by poor judgement and naivety, James faced insuperable odds against the money power. When the king became a Catholic his fate was sealed, and the nation’s dynasty was finally usurped.

Charles II and James II will both be released on 21 May, 2026, with pre-orders now shipping from www.mysteriumpress.com. They will shortly be available in the USA via Os Justi Press.