The First Princess of Wales (originally published as Sweet Passion's Pain) is a 1984 historical fiction novel by American author Karen Harper.

[1] Harper was inspired to become a writer by the Anya Seton novel Katherine, as well as her many visits to English historical sites.

[2] After publishing her first novel in 1982, Harper left her job teaching British literature to become a professional author.

[3][4] Near the time of the novel's publication in 1984, Harper was in part inspired by the wedding of Charles, Prince of Wales, and Lady Diana Spencer, particularly when the newly married couple appeared on the balcony of Buckingham Palace together.

[5] The novel was first published in 1984 as Sweet Passion's Pain by Zebra Books before being re-released as The First Princess of Wales.