COURTIERS: Intrigue, Ambition, and the Power Players Behind the House of Windsor (published by St. Martin’s Press) is the gripping account of how the Royal family really operates, from Valentine Low, the journalist who has spent years studying them. Who really runs the show and, as Charles III begins his reign, what will happen next? As The Spectator raves, “COURTIERS give us a remarkable insight into the unseen operation of the monarchy."

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 and a pillar of the country. Today, as ever, a carefully selected team of people hidden from view steers the royal family's path between public duty and private life. Queen Elizabeth II, after a remarkable 70 years of service, saw the final seasons of her reign without her husband Philip to guide her. Now, a newly ascended Charles seeks to define what his future as King, and that of his court, will be. The question of who is entrusted to guide the royals has never been more vital. Yet, as the tensions within the family are exposed to global scrutiny like never before, the task these courtiers face has never been more challenging. With a dark cloud hanging over Prince Andrew as well as Harry and Meghan's controversial departure from royal life, William and Kate - equipped with a very 21st century approach to press and public relations - now hold the responsibility of making an ancient institution relevant for the decades to come.