Royal Charles: Charles II and the Restoration, By Antonia Fraser. New York: Dell Publishing Company. $8.95.

Progressing through this most enjoyable and substantial book, one sees clearly that Fraser is taking a charitable, affectionate view of Charles. He dealt adroitly with truculent and bigoted parliamentarianism in a violent struggle over the power of the crown and over religious intolerance. She concedes laziness and self-indulgence, but dwells in detail on his courageous, serious, and effective reign.