‘Darling Strumpet’ recounts life of Nelly Gwynn

Pretty, witty Nelly Gwynn was an unusual woman for her time. An accomplished, yet illiterate actress in 17th-century London, Nell rose from her dirt-poor childhood to become star of the stage to eventually becoming the beloved mistress of King Charles II, as well as mother of two of his children.

In her book, “The Darling Strumpet,” debut author Gillian Bagwell delights readers with historically accurate tales of Nell Gwynn’s escapades that will solicit laughter as well as a few tears.

Nell Gwynn escaped her mother’s “bawdy” house to become a young prostitute under the care of her older sister Rose. Nell would entertain some of the top actors, with the men taking a liking to the bright, saucy young girl who desired to better her life. Nell’s gentlemen friends encouraged her new-found career, teaching her the ropes of acting, and soon she was attracting the attention of the king himself during her performances.

The Duke of Buckingham, the king’s cousin, took Nell under his wing, grooming her to become the latest in King Charles’ stable of mistresses. Advised to always be cheerful and happy for His Majesty, Nell would outlast all of the women who vied for the king’s attention, even his queen. Nell would become Charles’ confidant, keeping his secrets during his often tumultuous reign.

But Nell never forgot where she came from or those who helped her along the way. She was generous with her money and her influences, even helping her old, mean-spirited mother in her final years.

Bagwell presents this story of the beloved courtesan in a lively manner, giving Nell a quiet dignity and grace. "Darling Strumpet" is anything but a dry documentary. Bagwell livens the action up with frequent forays into Nell’s famous sexual antics with her king and others, giving the book just the right amount of spice.

“The Darling Strumpet” is a well-told historical romance that will be enjoyed by Anglophiles and fans of the days of old alike.