Behind Palace Doors

Behind Palace Doors is a memoir by Major Colin Burgess, who served as personal protection officer to Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother from 1994 to 2001. Through his first-hand account, Burgess documents his experiences within the royal household and his observations of daily life protecting one of Britain's most beloved royals. The book provides details about the extensive security operations and protocols involved in protecting senior members of the royal family. Burgess shares insights into the Queen Mother's routines, personality, and interactions with staff while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries and discretion. The narrative follows Burgess's progression from his initial appointment through various assignments and duties at royal residences including Clarence House and the Castle of Mey. His position gave him a unique vantage point to witness both ceremonial occasions and private moments within the royal household. This insider account examines themes of duty, loyalty, and the complex relationship between protector and protected in the rarefied world of royal security. The book offers perspective on the intersection of modern security demands with centuries-old royal traditions and protocols.

Readers describe this as a respectful but candid account of working for Princess Anne, though many note it lacks major revelations or drama. Positive reviews highlight: - Direct, straightforward writing style - Personal anecdotes that show Princess Anne's work ethic and dry humor - Balanced portrayal that avoids sensationalism - Details about daily palace operations and protocols Common criticisms: - Too much focus on Burgess's military career - Not enough insider information about the royal family - Writing can be dry and formal - Some repetitive sections Ratings: Goodreads: 3.5/5 (182 ratings) Amazon UK: 4/5 (89 reviews) Amazon US: 3.5/5 (42 reviews) Multiple reviewers note it's "more of a military memoir than royal expose" (Goodreads reviewer). One Amazon reviewer states "If you're looking for gossip or scandal, this isn't it. But it offers an honest glimpse into royal service."

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🏰 Major Colin Burgess served as a personal protection officer to both Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, and Princess Margaret during his time with the Royal Protection Squad. 👑 The book reveals that Princess Margaret often felt overshadowed by her sister, Queen Elizabeth II, and struggled with the restrictions of royal protocol throughout her life. 🥂 According to Burgess, the Queen Mother maintained a strict daily routine that included drinking gin and Dubonnet before lunch and champagne in the evening. 🚔 The author worked in various roles within Scotland Yard for 30 years before becoming a royal protection officer. 💂‍♂️ The book describes how protection officers had to balance their duty to protect with the royals' desire for privacy, often becoming trusted confidants while maintaining professional boundaries.