'To have any understanding of the Queen you must first read this book' Amanda Foreman

In THE DEFINITIVE BIOGRAPHY, discover Elizabeth, the woman behind the throne, from the bestselling British Royal Family writer, Sally Bedell Smith.

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An intimate portrait of Her Majesty the Queen.

This definitive biography of Queen Elizabeth II is the first all-round, up-close picture of one of the most fascinating, enigmatic and admired women in the world.

With exclusive access to the Queen's personal letters, close friends and associates, this intimate biography is a treasure trove of fresh insights on her public persona and her private life. It also explores her close relationships with her family, her children, and Prince Philip.

This book will transport you back to a moment nine decades ago when a young Princess Elizabeth first discovered her destiny. Here we see how over the years she has navigated through the political challenges and personal sacrifices ahead of her, to put the Crown, the Country and her unswerving sense of duty first.

There is so much more to our Queen than that which is reported, but in these pages we at last get to meet the leader, strategist, and diplomat; the daughter, wife, mother and grandmother - Elizabeth the Queen.

'Sally Bedell Smith offers her readers the illusion of knowing the Queen as a friend' The Economist

'A worthy addition to the shelves of royal watchers everywhere' The Independent