The Restless Republic

Anna Keay’s The Restless Republic explores one of the most turbulent periods in English history: the decade after the execution of Charles I. Keay breathes life into the interregnum by focusing on a diverse cast of characters, from politicians and soldiers to ordinary citizens. Her narrative is vivid and engaging, showing how people adapted to the uncertainty of a world without monarchy. Keay combines deep research with a gift for storytelling, making this complex period accessible and fascinating. It’s a portrait of instability that still resonates with our contemporary concerns about power and legitimacy.