📖 Overview
Robert Hardman is a British journalist and royal commentator who has written extensively about the British Royal Family for over 25 years. He is particularly known for his books about Queen Elizabeth II and the modern monarchy.
Hardman serves as a regular writer for the Daily Mail and has produced several documentary films about the British royal household. His notable works include "Queen of the World" (2018) and "Queen of our Times: The Life of Elizabeth II" (2022), which draw on his privileged access to the royal family and their inner circle.
A graduate of Cambridge University, Hardman began his career at the Daily Telegraph before establishing himself as one of Britain's leading authorities on royal matters. His writing combines historical detail with behind-the-scenes insights into royal life and protocol.
His work has included coverage of major royal events including state visits, coronations, weddings, and funerals, along with documentaries for outlets including the BBC and ITV. The books "Our Queen" and "Her Majesty" were both adapted into acclaimed television documentaries.
👀 Reviews
Readers praise Hardman's detailed research and insider access to royal sources, which provides unique perspectives on the monarchy. Many note his balanced reporting style and ability to humanize royal figures while maintaining journalistic objectivity.
What readers liked:
- Deep historical context and previously unreported details
- Clear, engaging writing style that makes royal protocol accessible
- First-hand accounts from palace staff and royal family members
- Professional tone without sensationalism
What readers disliked:
- Some found the level of protocol detail excessive
- A few readers wanted more personal anecdotes about the Queen
- Occasional repetition of information across books
Ratings:
- "Queen of our Times" (2022): 4.5/5 on Amazon (1,200+ reviews), 4.3/5 on Goodreads (2,800+ ratings)
- "Queen of the World" (2018): 4.4/5 on Amazon (800+ reviews), 4.1/5 on Goodreads (1,500+ ratings)
One reader noted: "Hardman strikes the perfect balance between respect for the institution and honest reporting." Another commented: "The access to private royal archives and staff interviews sets this apart from other royal biographies."
📚 Books by Robert Hardman
Queen of Our Times: The Life of Elizabeth II (2022)
A biographical account of Queen Elizabeth II's life and reign, covering both public and private aspects of her seven decades as monarch.
Charles III: New King, New Court (2024) A detailed examination of King Charles III's transition to the throne and the changes within the British royal institution following Queen Elizabeth II's death.
Queen of the World (2018) An exploration of Queen Elizabeth II's role in international diplomacy and her relationship with the Commonwealth nations.
Our Queen (2011) A chronicle of Queen Elizabeth II's daily life, duties, and relationships within the palace, based on extensive access and interviews.
Monarchy: The Royal Family at Work (2007) A behind-the-scenes look at the working lives of the British royal family and their staff during official duties and ceremonies.
Her Majesty: The Court of Queen Elizabeth II (2006) An examination of the people, traditions, and operations within Queen Elizabeth II's royal household and court.
Charles III: New King, New Court (2024) A detailed examination of King Charles III's transition to the throne and the changes within the British royal institution following Queen Elizabeth II's death.
Queen of the World (2018) An exploration of Queen Elizabeth II's role in international diplomacy and her relationship with the Commonwealth nations.
Our Queen (2011) A chronicle of Queen Elizabeth II's daily life, duties, and relationships within the palace, based on extensive access and interviews.
Monarchy: The Royal Family at Work (2007) A behind-the-scenes look at the working lives of the British royal family and their staff during official duties and ceremonies.
Her Majesty: The Court of Queen Elizabeth II (2006) An examination of the people, traditions, and operations within Queen Elizabeth II's royal household and court.
👥 Similar authors
Sally Bedell Smith writes about the British royal family with inside access and deep research. Her biographies cover similar territory to Hardman's work, including books on Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Charles.
Hugo Vickers specializes in royal biographies and has documented the lives of multiple members of the British monarchy. He draws on archival material and personal connections within royal circles.
Tina Brown reports on the British royal family through a journalistic lens with focus on modern developments. She covers palace dynamics and developments from the 1980s onward with emphasis on media relationships.
Andrew Morton combines investigative reporting with royal biography and has published multiple books on the Windsor family. His work includes direct source material and interviews with royal insiders.
Ben Pimlott wrote historical accounts of the British monarchy with focus on political and constitutional aspects. His research methodology and use of primary sources mirrors Hardman's approach to royal biography.
Hugo Vickers specializes in royal biographies and has documented the lives of multiple members of the British monarchy. He draws on archival material and personal connections within royal circles.
Tina Brown reports on the British royal family through a journalistic lens with focus on modern developments. She covers palace dynamics and developments from the 1980s onward with emphasis on media relationships.
Andrew Morton combines investigative reporting with royal biography and has published multiple books on the Windsor family. His work includes direct source material and interviews with royal insiders.
Ben Pimlott wrote historical accounts of the British monarchy with focus on political and constitutional aspects. His research methodology and use of primary sources mirrors Hardman's approach to royal biography.