Queen Of Our Times: The Life of Queen Elizabeth II

Queen Of Our Times is Robert Hardman's definitive biography of Queen Elizabeth II, based on interviews with members of the Royal Family and access to unseen royal archives. The book covers Elizabeth's life from birth through her seven decades as monarch. Hardman documents the key events and transformations during Elizabeth's reign, including the modernization of the monarchy, social changes across Britain, and personal challenges within the Royal Family. The narrative incorporates perspectives from palace staff, world leaders, and royal correspondents who witnessed these historic moments. The book details Elizabeth's daily routines, decision-making processes, and relationships with Prime Ministers and other heads of state through the years. Hardman examines how she maintained stability and upheld traditions while adapting the institution to contemporary demands. This biography reveals the intersection of public duty and private life that defined Elizabeth's reign, offering insights into how one person's dedication to service shaped both an institution and an era. The work stands as a chronicle of both a monarch and the evolution of modern Britain.

Readers found this biography thorough and balanced, appreciating Hardman's access to royal sources and inclusion of lesser-known details about Elizabeth II's daily life and personality. Liked: - Behind-the-scenes insights into palace operations - Coverage of recent events like Harry/Meghan departure and Philip's death - Personal anecdotes showing Queen's humor and character - Well-researched with new interviews and sources Disliked: - First chapters on childhood move slowly - Some repetition of previously published information - Limited critical analysis of monarchy as institution - Skims over certain controversies and family conflicts Ratings: Goodreads: 4.3/5 (2,100+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (1,800+ ratings) Sample review: "Hardman strikes the right balance between respectful and revealing. His access to staff and family members adds fresh perspective to familiar events." - Amazon reviewer Another notes: "Sometimes too deferential, but the private moments and staff observations make it worthwhile." - Goodreads review

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Princess: The Early Life of Queen Elizabeth II by Jane Dismore A focused study of Elizabeth's formative years before becoming Queen, including her wartime service and early marriage.

The Queen Mother: The Official Biography by William Shawcross The authorized biography of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother reveals the relationship between Elizabeth II and her mother through letters and personal papers.

Philip: The Final Portrait by Gyles Brandreth A comprehensive biography of Prince Philip explores his role as Queen Elizabeth II's consort and their partnership through seven decades of marriage.

🎭 During Elizabeth II's lifetime, she sat for over 200 official portraits by different artists, though she was known to be an impatient sitter who preferred to be active rather than pose. 👑 Author Robert Hardman has covered the British Royal Family for over 25 years and is one of the few journalists to have interviewed Queen Elizabeth II multiple times. 🏰 The book reveals that Elizabeth II was the first British monarch to open up parts of Buckingham Palace to the public, a decision made in 1993 to help fund repairs after the Windsor Castle fire. 🌍 Throughout her reign, Queen Elizabeth II visited 117 countries on official state visits, making her the most widely traveled head of state in history. 📚 The book draws on previously unpublished Royal Family archives and includes exclusive interviews with prime ministers, world leaders, and members of the royal household who had never spoken publicly before.