Review: On Duty with the Queen: My Time as a Buckingham Palace Press Officer

On Duty with the Queen: My Time as a Buckingham Palace Press Officer
On Duty with the Queen: My Time as a Buckingham Palace Press Officer by Dickie Arbiter

The book details the time of Dickie Arbiter’s work in the press office at Buckingham Palace. First working for the Prince and Princess of Wales, then later for the royal collections (and also seemingly chipping in whenever needed, as with the funeral of the Princess of Wales).

He also interjects his personal history into the book, and at times that felt more interesting than the royal “scandal” of the week that he had to defuse.

There are personal observations about the royals in the book. However, he is also very careful about not saying much that would (probably) violate a non-disclosure contract. It can therefore get a bit bland at times.

I found the chapter on the planning and arranging of the funeral of Diana, Princess of Wales fascinating. Especially the bit about extending the route of the funeral cortege to spread the crowds out.

All in all, a decent read.

 

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