Victoria reigned longer than any other British monarch, and while she was on the throne, Britain became the most powerful industrial nation in the world and centre of the greatest empire of modern times. Throughout her life Victoria was faced with the problems of combining and reconciling the role of devoted wife and mother with that of Queen and each had to be lived in the fierce light of national publicity. This is the dilemma which provides the vital thread through the labyrinth of her life. Through all trials and tribulations Victoria was sustained by a steady belief in her own judgement to discern right from wrong, a singular honesty and a great determination. In this fascinating study, the author shows how this remarkable woman grew in authority and overcame personal tragedy to become a very real power in the government of her country and the British Empire.