This book provides an overview of the kings and queens who have reigned in the various European countries. The volume is arranged geographically with chapters by European region moving generally west to east (from Iberia to Germany to the Balkans). It has a definite Western European bias, with much more material about Spain, Portugal, and France than the other countries of Europe. Since the scope of the book is so broad, there are only brief accounts of the various rulers. The volume is beautifully illustrated with portraits and easy to understand genealogical tables. A good book for beginners or those with only a casual interest in royalty, really a coffee table book. Note that British royal families are not included as they are covered in the companion book "Kings and Queens of Britain." Written by one of the co-editors of Debrett's Peerage. ( )