Headline Books

Who advises the royal family, what influence do they have and how have they shaped history? 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, an ancient institution and a pillar of the constitution. Today, as ever, a vast team of people hidden from view steers the royal family's path between public duty and private life. The queen, after a remarkable 70 years of service, is entering the final seasons of her reign without her husband, Philip, to guide her. Meanwhile, Charles seeks to define what his future as king will be, with his court wielding ever greater influence as he plans for his imminent accession. The question of who is entrusted to guide the royals has never been more vital, and yet the task those courtiers face has never been more challenging. With a cloud hanging over Prince Andrew, as well as Harry and Meghan's departure from royal life, the complex relationship between modern c