This book examines two aspects of the abbreviated reign of King Ananda Mahidol (1935-1946) of Thailand’s current Chakri dynasty. First, it discusses a romantic relationship between Ananda and his Swiss girlfriend, Marileine Ferrari, a daughter of a pastor of Lausanne. Interracial marriage, particularly with Westerners, has been strictly forbidden for Thai kings or heirs apparent. The restriction stems from the interwoven connection between sexual relationship and the security of the throne. Second, it investigates the taboo topic of Ananda’s mysterious death. Although the two events were not specially related, both in their own way served to unavoidably shake the monarchy and hence threaten its existence. The palace’s reactions to these events demonstrated its continuous search to maintain its power and ultimately to warrant its survival.
SpringerLink: Love and Death of King Ananda Mahidol of Thailand