When I first saw this book it peaked my interest, but I was admittedly concerned that Mr. Jones had simply crafted an architectural history of the famous Versailles Palace. Thankfully, while the architecture is included, as is necessary in a history of a building, it was not all East Wings and flying buttresses. Mr. Collins has crafted a wonderful general history of Versailles, from Louis XIII's hunting lodge to modern day restoration efforts. He delves into the construction of the grand palace (as well as the constant effort at maintaining the elaborate rooms and grounds), the lifestyles of the Bourbons who lived there, and the confused place that Versailles held in France until the late 19th century.
The book excels at covering the history of Versailles up to 1789. From the Kings' elaborate schedules, ceremonies, and hunting habits, to the queens' various levels maltreatment, to the hordes of nobles thirsting for favor, to the legions of servants and tourists (the latter lining up to watch the king eat his breakfast) Mr. Collins has crafted a superb look at court life in the 17th and 18th centuries. I also appreciated that when French phrases were used, they were generally translated.
Unfortunately, the last chapters are a bit less well rounded. After the French Revolution history speeds up and even major moments, like the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, are glossed over. Interesting tidbits still show up, like Louis-Phillip's hastily assembled museum of battles, but they are mostly rushed through.
Overall, for anyone curious about the palace and it's inhabitants in the heyday of the Bourbon dynasty, this is a good general history. The last chapters don't take enough time but are still generally interesting.