Behind the Throne: A Domestic History of the British Royal Household
Fascination with royalty has always existed but is perhaps at a high right now, particularly in the US, with the popularity of television shows like The Crown and Victoria. Basing his work on the accounts of those who make it all possible, the household staff, Tinniswood takes readers behind the scenes to see the reality of royal life. Maintaining multiple palaces and living a life fit for a king or queen don’t come cheap, so it is not surprising that a large portion of the book discusses court finances. One of the most interesting tidbits involves the cost of royal visits. When Elizabeth I traveled, she took her entire court. One three-night stay cost her host the equivalent of 10 million dollars in today’s money. Despite the honor the queen’s visit brought, some couldn’t afford it. The Earl of Lincoln fled his home when he heard the queen was coming, and his servants didn’t answer the gate despite hearing the royal entourage knocking. Based on the title, the reader might expect the focus to be more on the lives of court servants and day-to-day life. The book is really about the royals, but I’m not complaining. A gossipy, fun read.
