Courtiers

Intrigue, Ambition, and the Power Players Behind the House of Windsor

By: Valentine Low

Narrated by: Valentine Low

Length: 10 hrs and 2 mins

Publisher's summary

This program is read by the author.

The gripping account of how the Royal family really operates, from the journalist who has spent years studying them. Who really runs the show and, as Charles III begins his reign, what will happen next?

Throughout history, the British monarchy has relied on its courtiers—the trusted advisers in the King or Queen's inner circle—to ensure its survival as a family and a pillar of the country. Today, as ever, a carefully selected team of people hidden from view steers the royal family's path between public duty and private life. Queen Elizabeth II, after a remarkable 70 years of service, saw the final seasons of her reign without her husband Philip to guide her. Now, a newly ascended Charles seeks to define what his future as King, and that of his court, will be.

The question of who is entrusted to guide the royals has never been more vital. Yet, as the tensions within the family are exposed to global scrutiny like never before, the task these courtiers face has never been more challenging. With a dark cloud hanging over Prince Andrew as well as Harry and Meghan's controversial departure from royal life, William and Kate—equipped with a very 21st century approach to press and public relations—now hold the responsibility of making an ancient institution relevant for the decades to come. In fascinating and explosive detail, Valentine Low explores the previously unknown relationship between modern courtiers and the royal family.

Courtiers pulls back the veil to reveal an ever-changing system of complex characters, shifting alliances, and a battle of ideas over what the future of the institution should be. This is the inside story of how the monarchy really works, at a pivotal moment in its history.

A Macmillan Audio production from St. Martin’s Press.

©2023 Valentine Low (P)2023 Macmillan Audio

Critic reviews

"The royal correspondent of The Times delves into the world of the courtier, the advisers who for good or ill guide the House of Windsor through today's choppy waters."—The Times (UK)

Good story line

I’m so sad that the narrator was so difficult to understand. I listen to Brit narrators all the time with no problem, but this one’s cadence, intonations, and inflections we’re at most times garbled to me. Other than that, a good informative story.

A must read to understand Megan and Harry

This author wrote and read an important book about the roles of Courtiers to the Royal family. I learned a great deal regarding history and current events.

One important takeaway is Megan did Harry a kindness in removing him from his family. I now believe Megan is as selfish as the tabloids say.

He finished with the great quote from Queen Elizabeth the 1st.

Enjoy!

Caution

While I enjoyed the book, I noticed that he stated that William and Harry were each other’s “best man” at their respective weddings, though they were not. The “Tiara” and “Megxit” stories seemed at odds with Harry’s versions (I would have expected a more complete version, when put together). Mr. Low may be dependent on official reports rather than actual experiences, and I had to keep reminding myself that what I was hearing might not be fact. On the other hand, I appreciate the overall view of courtiers and my understanding of their role was certainly deepened.

Note to authors....

I was truly counting the days for this book. Authors need to hire someone to read their works. Valentine sounded like he was either dehydrated, had a cold or tired. He rushed through reading and it made it unbearable to listen. I work long hours so I enjoy listening. Maybe I'll get a hardcopy.

Informative and interesting

Enjoyed the book helps explain many of the inner workings of the family and the history of the relationships

Interesting but Hard to Listen To

Mr. Low gives us good insight into the lives of the palace’s “men in gray.” With that, we learn about the personalities and management style of the Royal Family. The only problem with the audiobook is Mr. Low’s narrative. His British accent makes it hard to decipher words and he speaks quickly, making it even more difficult. A professional reader would have done a much better job.

Excellent and so insightful

Fascinating behind the scenes look into how the palace works. Also blew me away with even more horror stories about Harry and Meghan. Having been the victim of two verbally and emotionally abusive bosses, I feel for those palace employees who endured the same at the hands of the former Royals. Great book and great narration !

Best explanation of the Sussex exit.

Very well written & equally sourced. Once you understand the history or the Private Secretary you can understand the system on the whole.
Having insight directly from the staff that worked for Harry & Megan cleared up a lot of misconceptions. I think the public seems even now to misunderstand who Meghan is & more importantly, how she works.
There’s one final point I think everyone should ask, men seem to miss this when writing about The Duchess of Sussex, What pregnant woman goes to Human Resources to discuss her suicidal feelings before she calls her OBGYN??? The first call is always the OBGYN. Enough said!

Very Good Book

I don't know if this book has any surprises for the average British citizen; but as an American, it is quite interesting and enlightening too. it gives a much better picture of the Palace staff, how they operate, especially with the Royal family. Only several chapters deal with Harry and Meghan and all their ongoing trauma, but still very interesting(!
This is an excellent book, well worth the time. The narration is also excellent !

Excellent insight into a working Royal class family

Well read, albeit a little speedy (which can be adjusted). I found this extremely interesting with regard to the internecine,and official, complications of the ‘too many cooks’ theory in running the Royal household, along with new conversations regarding the marriage of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, and their subsequent withdrawal from duty.
Recommend, with proviso- read Spare first.