EP5: THREE Minute EGGS! The Housekeeper’s DIARY By Wendy Berry

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I look forward to reading them!
Shauna x Part 5 in my review of The Housekeeper’s Diary by Wendy Berry.
A book that was banned in Britain!
It gives us a very interesting insight into the relationship between the then Prince Charles and Princess Diana and also 7 years of Prince William and Prince Harry’s childhood. It is a rare first-hand account.
#theroyalfamily #thehousekeepersdiary #princecharles #princessdiana #princeharry #princewilliam The Vintage Read Show Playlist Direct Links 🔗:
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[@starrynight1329]

I don't know why folks are getting upset. We are hearing 1 persons experiences. I'm really enjoying hearing her stories, thank you for your time Shauna ❤️.

[@369blueneptune]

Exactly right! No need to get emotional, folks!

[@teachersusan3730]

True - we will never know the whole story.

[@LKMNOP]

Plus, what she experienced me not be the whole story. It's like when people are walking by you in a crowd and you hear just a piece of a sentence and that doesn't give what they were actually talking about. What this woman experiences is just part of the whole whatever it was that happened. And to give a made-up example, say you walking on a room and see a woman crying standing next to a man and she runs out of the room. First thing you think of is he made her cry. Then you find out later that she had, right before you walked in, red an email about someone she knew dying.

[@369blueneptune]

@@LKMNOP You made very good points.🌲❄️☃️🎄

[@ursularyan7652]

@@teachersusan3730I think the truth of the matter is both Charles and Diana were emotionally damaged people who were forced into a situation neither of them really and truly wanted to be in. Charles loved Camilla forever and she him. He tried with Diana and she tried with him but even if they had fallen in love their upbringing and all the emotional trauma was going to put a major strain on their marriage. Diana was an immature emotional childlike woman in many ways who needed a lot of time to grow up before she got married- married to anyone never mind that particular marriage with all of the expectations placed on it. I feel really sorry for both of the people they were then.

[@MarianneOz]

Diana is an historical figure so yes, published accounts of her life should be discussed. What offends me is Harry’s marketing and PR machine using her death to excuse his poor decisions and bad behaviour.

[@Wildflowers516]

Yup !

[@ajune583]

🎯!! Totally agree!

[@sheliahutcherson168]

He acts like he is the only child who lost their Mom while still a child,.My Granddaughter Grace lost her Daddy to Al’s when she was only 8 years old. Not a quick death, she had to watch him fade away and become locked inside his mind and body. That a traumatic childhood experience

[@JenniB123]

Im so sorry for your granddaughter. I've nursed a few people with ALS and it is a tragic disease. I hope your granddaughter is doing well now.

[@ajune583]

@@sheliahutcherson168 I am so sorry for your Granddaughter and Family. I know first hand as we lost my Mum to ALS in 1999.

[@DutchJoan]

Life isn't clean and straightforward, it's messy and flawed. The more amazing I find the path William and Catherine decided to take. The strong bond they forged and the dedication they have towards their children.

[@Wildflowers516]

Well said !

[@891Henry]

W&C took their time getting to know each other really well. That doesn't surprise me after his parents' fiasco. I imagine when W tried to warn H to slow down with Meghan, he was worried about another situation like his parents had experienced. The clock was ticking for Charles as he hit 30 and Diana was literally 'served up' as the best option. No surprise it didn't work out when they barely knew each other.

[@carolbaughan8768]

A real family. Not a hustle. Soulmates. This only describes one family.

[@maryskinner1329]

my daughter & her husband dated 2 years before living together. If they couldn’t live together as equals then a marriage would not survive. They lived together for 7 years before marriage. This is why their marriage has worked great for the last 24 years. They tell each other they love them everyday. Grounded couple , grounded marriage , grounded children. This is what William & Cathrine & their children have.

[@EvelynElaineSmith]

@@891Henry ~ C. & D.'s marriage was very much as arranged one. They had no interests in common & were 12 years apart in age. Moreover, the public saw they were both equally flawed.

[@angelawhitehouse8066]

People always go on about how young Diana was but she was actually quite typical of her generation. I had two babies by the time I was 22, nobody thought it unusual.

[@thevintageread]

Ahhh I see your point. I had babies late so she seemed young to me! 😂

[@abbatrouble]

Diana's mother and grandmother both married much older men when they were quite young.

[@LeeDon76]

Most of us had babies in very early 20’s.I remember a lady in my maternity ward who was considered an old mum at 29.

[@3_times_mum520]

Thank you, Thank you for making this point.. Diana was actually 20 years old, when she married..

[@user-bs4jn6444]

Same. Two babies by 22. And I did all the housework and cooked ... I seemed so mature..lol

[@Rhonda-df7oo]

I was very against Camilla back in the day when Princess Diana was still alive and after she died. But the last 5-6 years she’s earned my respect. It’s obvious she loves KC very much and she’s a very hard worker for the monarchy. Enjoy your reviews and your snarky snippets tremendously. Very Merry Christmas to you Shauna and your family from America. 👏🥰🇺🇸

[@carolbaughan8768]

Soulmates. Sadly, Lady Di never found hers. ❤❤

[@jeanettesantarelli1795]

Agreed!! I felt the same at the time but now it is obvious how much Queen Camilla cares for King Charles and how much she time she puts into being an asset to the Royal Family.

[@garylefevers]

Same here except about 20 years ago I couldn't take my own hypocrisy anymore. How I heard dear Diana admit to affairs with married men and was okay with the exact same thing I vilified C and C for , I have no idea. Thank God I figured out that two wrongs doesn't make it right. They were human like us all. I truly think some people literally worship her. Which is a disservice to her.

[@judywright4241]

@@garylefevers--The shame of worshipping Diana, or anyone, can never appreciate who they are as flawed people. Something I read about Diana in Tina Brown’s book ‘Diana Chronicles’ was how boxed in Diana felt by her own persona. She loved & hated it. To me it adds to William’s perspective and appreciation for Catherine’s more normal strong family being an oasis.

[@marisapaola9010]

Im with you Rhonda. If Charles didn't have Camilla, it would have been someone else. He was also rumoured to be interested in his old Australian girlfriend, Kanga. I admired Diana, it was a shame she couldn't find someone to love her, I too came from a dysfunctional family, with a narc father and a mother who spent her time putting out fires. I kept picking guys who were selfish and disloyal. Diana and Charles irritated each other, end of story. Happy Christmas xx 🇦🇺

[@anne-no2ic]

She saw what she saw and her book is a valuable historical asset.

[@aliwehr561]

Let me set the scene: My dear husband is sound asleep on the couch being kept warm and cozy by both cat and dog. In an instant, husband is practically upright, cat and dog are airborne and all because of that "egg flag" comment that made me blast out a huge laugh! I thot I'd die laughing! Thanks for another entertaining reading!

[@ninabooker2904]

Your comment is so descriptive. I think you might be a writer yourself. Give it a go ! Please.

[@brendatruant7404]

Same!!! (Without the husband, dog and cat… 🤣🤣.)

[@ruthf6035]

My cats can't stand it when i burst out laughing. Glad you were able to give your cat and dog a carnival ride...flying thru the air🤣🤣🤣

[@annrhodes3544]

The boiled eggs would not be thrown out in my house. They would be served up as egg salad the next day.

[@janettesinclair6279]

Maybe they did for the staff....

[@3_times_mum520]

I am absolutely sure, that Prince Charles didn't ask for the eggs to be ready, when he walked in the door!!! and he definitely didn't want any food to be thrown out!! I think he would have been upset had he found out..

[@phyllisneal8687]

😂😂😂🎉

[@MsJoybird1]

The more you hear about Diana the more you find that she was a very immature and troubled woman! I do not blame Charles for ALL of her actions, Diana was troubled before she ever married Charles! As far as a 3 minute egg, that is the stage I like mine and do not find it strange that Charles would want his this way!

[@bridgetmclaughlin6198]

Seems a bit unfair on the children getting rid of their nanny that they’ve known since babyhood

[@jswjanjan]

Anyone getting upset can sod off, thank you very much. We appreciate ALL you share with us dear lovely Shauna❤😊

[@thevintageread]

🤗 😘

[@annmoran5585]

Loving these snippets from a book, it looks like we will never be able to buy easily, so for you, Shauna, to pick out the interesting bits and relate them so well. Is a bonus for us. Thank you ❤️

[@joannawilson9860]

Thank you for doing this during the holiday season. Grateful for the relief it brings. 💖

[@thevintageread]

You are so welcome!

[@RobinPatterson-oe9cp]

Isn’t it interesting that Diana terminated Barbara Barnes and William called Barbara out of retirement to be George’s nanny. I think that’s a remarkable testament to William’s emotional intelligence!

[@esterbengoa6077]

I feel sorry for lots of people. For Diana and Charles, both damaged and looking for love in a doom marriage; for Camilla, trapped in the wrong marriage. But mainly I feel sorry for the outsiders, defending one side as if their lives depended on it.

[@suupkalvers2244]

How right you are!

[@Horsefeathers30]

Sounds like Charles still does not know what to do and how to handle tantrums. I think Diana probably broke the cup because Charles was very nonchalant and non-reactive. He probably lowered his paper and said "pick that up". Meanwhile, she's trying to grab his attention. Harry's throwing cups too, in a metaphoric way

[@bonnieparsons557]

Over the years I have watched King Charles ( as he is now known) and I sympathize with he must have had to go through. Diana also. Both of them were forced into doing the “right thing” for the crown. I truly believe they had a fondness for each other. We should all walk in there shoes. Yes they have wealth and can do whatever they want ( within reason I’m sure) Harry needs to stop blaming his father and Camilla for his mother’s death. It’s an excuse he uses all the time. Time to grow up Harry because nothing can change what happened.

[@judywright4241]

There was a lot of blame, if there was any point, since we can’t change a thing. Diana did what so many of us young women were taught, ‘Laugh at his jokes, be interested in what he’s into! Don’t talk too much, smile, no matter how you feel.’ Except if you’re successful, like Diana was, she said she LOVED Balmoral, hunting, fishing, all things country! Loved watching polo and Charles is soooo amusing! Then she got married and hit him with hating all of it, ESPECIALLY Balmoral and Charles ‘old tweedy boring friends’❤ The lesson, be careful trying to act like something you’re not.

[@snoopybluejeans]

By all accounts Charles wept over Diana's body, at the hospital. They had reconciled and were on friendly terms, well before her death. They stood united for their sons. He was the one that took her body back to the UK. I too believe that he wept. She will always be the mother of his children.

[@valeriedavidson2785]

Bonnie. I quite agree but I felt sorry for Charles because I think that Diana was a nightmare. Harry gets his silly immature personality from his mother. I think Camilla is a very nice, dignified person and she makes Charles happy.

[@christinechandler5690]

4 people all married to the wrong person. What a terrible mess. We often forget Camilla had children who were also impacted by the relationship, nothing is ever mentioned about them. Thank you Shauna for this insight. You are doing a great job by informing us and entertaining us at the same time, laughter and sadness in the same read.

[@anneprendergast7834]

I wonder, if Diana had survived, and become happily remarried whether Diana and Charles could have become good friends ( I think they did love each other in their own very flawed ways) but I also don’t think Diana would ever have been in a healthy relationship as she was so needy.

[@cherylmockotr]

It was for the best that Diana died. If she'd lived, William would have been so scarred he wouldn't be able to ascend to the throne in any healthy way... and there's no way Diana would have tolerated Catherine. She was too much of a narcissist to be able to handle a younger, much prettier, much more confident young woman!

[@jenniferfirer2837]

@@cherylmockotrI appreciate the courage and insight of your post.

[@marywenzel3199]

I doubt happy remarriage was in Diana’s cards due to her emotional issues. That said, Diana herself admitted that she and Charles were getting on the best they ever had after the divorce. Without the pressure of pretending to be happy living together, they could focus on coparenting and the facet of themselves that worked the best and the one thing they both could agree on: their love for their boys. It’s a real tragedy that Diana died just as they had arrived at this place of relative harmony. In her mid-30s, she had finally matured enough to get along with her ex-husband, and we can’t help but wonder what might have been. I do not exonerate Charles and Camilla for the pain and betrayal they inflicted on a very emotionally fragile young woman. But I really think if Diana had been able to bear the affair with Camilla With forbearance and dignity, the way the queen tolerated all of Phillip’s extracurricular friends, She could’ve stayed married to Charles and would’ve become Queen. No one wanted the couple to divorce. The queen and Philip certainly didn’t want it, Charles didn’t want it because he feared a divorce tainting his reign, Camila frankly was happy to keep their arrangement as it was; contrary to popular belief I do not think she schemed to displace Diana on the throne. She loved the man attached to the crown but had her own life, house hobbies and friends and valued her privacy. In actuality I think Camilla‘s regard for Charles was much more authentic than Diana‘s who freely admitted that from girlhood she had wanted to be the princess of Wales. She wouldn’t have looked twice at Charles without his title with him being so much older than her. Diana stirred the hornets nest first with the Andrew Morton book and then the straw that finally broke the back of the queens tolerance, the panorama interview. Essentially Diana played the chicken with the crown doing that interview, daring the queen to react and I think in a desperate bid To somehow make Charles renounce Camilla. She lost and I believe she was frankly stunned when her stunt had terrible consequences.

[@kathrinkweseleit7074]

@@cherylmockotrI dont think Diana was a narcissist, my personal believe is, she had Borderline Personality Disorder, where your self erstem is very low but you are still able to feel very deeply and therefore your mood swings constantly between very high and very low, leading to temper tantrums of the worst Kind but also for showing great love and compassion. I remember being a child and seeing her with children … they loved her and she loved them. Seeing Meghan with children and compairing her with Diana - for me - is the difference between a narcissist and a Person with BPD.

[@cherylmockotr]

@@kathrinkweseleit7074 I fully agree that Diana was a severe borderline, but that includes narcissistic traits. It's descriptive not the diagnostic label. Hearing what's described in the Housekeeper book makes me feel very sorry for both William and Harry!

[@bjbrown]

❤ This is a very interesting take on the family dynamic not only between Charles and Diana but the elder Royals as well. Not all families are cuddly and forthright with feelings. Diana needed affirmation partly due to her own family dynamic but because of the man she married. She was very insecure and when she finally figured out how to manipulate the newshounds she went to a different level. It is still very sad that her life ended so early.

[@maureenball6733]

If Diana had been still around she might have seen off Meghan.

[@larhumba4233]

I would never have guessed Ken Wharfe was so interesting going by his TV appearances where he comes across as boring. I wouldn't describe Charles as repressed, he is quite an emotional man, just different to Diana and they had little in common apart from the children. Loving this book. Merry Christmas Shauna! 🌲🎀🥰

[@user-nw3xc2tk6y]

I'd say it was more because she was still emotionally immature but he was well on his way to maturing; D's outbursts and C finding it hard to deal with sound typical of anyone dealing with an unreasonable adolescent to me.

[@KimtheElder]

I’ve always loved his interviews and don’t find him boring. Guess that’s my taste in men. Wish I could find one like that 😅 lol

[@1234cheerful]

yes he is very stolid. the book he wrote about his time as Diana's security officer is a very good read.

[@maureenball6733]

Must read Ken Wharfe's book myself.

[@kathleenfeuling3740]

​@@user-nw3xc2tk6yCharles was much more like his mother's generation than his own. This means they were not just 12 years apart but more like 20 years apart.

[@amihill2691]

I'm really enjoying hearing about this book. I've always liked Camilla❤

[@esterbengoa6077]

She seems to be made of a very strong stock.

[@graphiquejack]

One thing I really appreciated about the Crown was that out of all four of the people involved in those two marriages, Camilla actually comes out looking the best. She’s just practical, sees the situation for what it is, and suffers in silence. I have to admire that quality if that’s really what she’s like. The crap she went through and never said a thing. ‘No one asked her how she was doing’ but she didn’t cry in interviews about it, either

[@evitasdad]

Thankfully, Camilla is not a drama-Queen.

[@dianelee2318]

It is amazing how this book has taken some of the "stardust" off of Charles and Diana for me! Particularly how mean Diana could be to staff and I was surprised that Fergie could be so snotty with staff. Not that I thought they were perfect but I did imagine better behavior from these ladies. Not at all surprised Charles wanted this book to disappear.

[@noreenen2347]

it shows he was a good person because he is coming out of it looking much better than diana, who usually played the press to his disadvantage

[@lindapeterson7997]

Diana knew before she married Charles it would never work and wanted to back out of the wedding. Her sister told her "too late Dutch, your face is on the teatowels".

[@user-hx3qr4ls2q]

Shortly before the wedding, Charles told Diana he didn't love her. What was she to do? Especially a 19/20 year old who had never had a boyfriend and loved romance novels. Surly, everyone hoped Charles would fall in love with her but Charles giving his married girlfriend a sentimental gift before their wedding was not a good sign.

[@laurielovett8849]

@@user-hx3qr4ls2q She had boyfriends,she destroyed one boy friends new car because something cropped up and he had tobreak the date

[@jsemplefelton5348]

​@@user-hx3qr4ls2q- how strange. Charles asked a friend if it was possible to love two women. Charles gave bracelets to 3 women not just Camilla. One was Lady Tryon (Tyron?) and the other was the lady who he used to go skiing with.

[@jsemplefelton5348]

That's strange. Charles asked a friend if it was possible to love two women. Charles and she appeared happy together up until Harry's birth. You could tell the way they looked at each other. Charles actually gave bracelets to three ladies not just Camilla. The others were Lady Tyron and the lady he went skiing with and who was injured in a skiing accident. Both of whom were also married.

[@juliannek3134]

Hi Shauna, Thank you very much for these lovely reviews. There will always be naysayers in our lives and we just need to shake them off. No one is perfect.

[@birdlover9082]

I don't Diana had good relationships with Nannies as a child, I think Diana said that. So it's really sad that she took away the stability that Barnes was able to give to William and Harry.

[@laurielovett8849]

No Dianna hated her nanniesizten to her takj with he'd speech therapist

[@bobbriggs9748]

I wouldn't worry, the people that are upset are the same people that think home and away is real. Top notch video again.

[@appalaabhattacharrya2630]

Love the synopsis. Don't worry about the "passionate" comments. That's a given on the internet. However, there is a silent majority that's enjoying some lighthearted goss and not taking any of this too seriously. ❤

[@jennifers6435]

It would drive me crazy to know my man was was involved in a romance..jealousy would eat my brain

[@annewalden3795]

Jennifer it was because Diana was crazy that she imagined her man was involved with another woman. Don't get mad but do provide a haven of calm and domestic comfort if you can.

[@trinamcgarvey-vw7ke]

Also, it must have driven Charles crazy to know she had affairs also.

[@annewalden3795]

@@trinamcgarvey-vw7ke I think Charles was probably shocked and upset .

[@borisgeorge3256]

I'm really enjoying this series Shauna. It's always good to get contemporaneous perspectives on things - especially those as public as Charles and Diana. I hope you will treat us with more books like this in the coming weeks. Appreciate your efforts.

[@thevintageread]

Yes I have some fantastic ones coming for 2024 x

[@jennyhacking1289]

I don't understand why people are upset, firstly like you say Diana and Charles were both placed in an impossible situation and they had their strengths and weaknesses like all humans. Second, hearing narratives from different prospectives helps to get a better understanding of the bigger picture. Keep giving us the bigger picture please.

[@HandmadeDarcy]

Re: Egggate 🤭 Never mind putting a footman on semaphore duty, it’s only 3 minutes, the diners themselves could be seated at the table waiting for their eggs for 3 minutes, as far as I’m concerned. 😂

[@thevintageread]

I agree! 😂

[@dawnjohnson5937]

Egg flag 🤣🤣🤣🤣. Brilliant 👏👏👏👏!!!! You know, it sounds like King Charles and Princess Di's story is just a tragedy: they shouldn't have got married. They may have been good friends otherwise. It's sad. LOVING this - your exploration of this book, Shauna, THANK YOU 👏👏👏!!! Very merry Christmas to you and your family 🤗🤗🤗.

[@tanianaldrett8637]

I thought the author did a really good job of staying neutral and of course she could only see things from Highgrove, amazes me anyone could get upset about anything we’ve heard so far. I’m really enjoying it.

[@annrhodes3544]

Subsequently, Barbara Barnes went to work for Lady Glennconner who speaks very highly of her in her recent book.

[@thevintageread]

Yes! Barbara Barnes actually came from the Glenconners and then returned to help due to her son’s accident.

[@Onel756]

What a wonderful reading ! It would be great if William and Harry could hear some of this . I really like when you commented that KC and PD did or could love each other , it was just not to be in the long run. To know they each tried, as best they could and did care for one another , that’s something good to taken on .💕 sad but sweet .

[@ChelleB555]

I have so enjoyed hearing the perspective of someone who had a first hand account of what was happening in one of their homes. Thank you!

[@DeeBullock1836]

Shauna I, and I’m sure others would love to see/hear your singing!!! I bet you’re amazing!!!!🎤🎼🎹

[@ytcomms3945]

She is a surprisingly good poet as she proved with a few recent videos.

[@graphiquejack]

100% agree with your thinking regarding the marriage. Both were flawed, both were victims of their past and machinations to get them together. If I was going to take a side, I’d pick Charles. Diana just seems like too much for me, plus I thought it was dirty to start leaking her story out… kinda like what I think about the Spare. As much as Charles may have said Diana was difficult, I am sure she gave as good as she got. I heard stories of her just assaulting him with blows and scratches. How awful for both of them that they were stuck together for so long. If their engagement had been longer, perhaps they would have realized how mismatched they were.

[@DeborahWohlfeld]

Very much like his second son

[@user-nw3xc2tk6y]

I believe she almost called it off - so had started to realise it was a mistake. D was clearly not emotionally mature and thus hard to deal with, like most unreasonable adolescents are for anyone of us - only she had power at her disposal too hey. I disagree that they were both victims though, or any reporting that claims this, they both had a v privillaged upbringing with lots of positive influences surrounding them and also those who catered for every need.

[@carolynhague7199]

I agree with you i was a huge Diana fan, ut it's unfair to her memorry as well as to Charles to ignore their flaws and humanity. Merry christmas 🌲✨🌲🥂🎄

[@valeriedavidson2785]

I never did understand why so many people were taken in by Diana. She was certainly no angel. I felt very sorry for Charles.

[@sue8344]

I’m old enough to have been around to read about Charles and Diana’s relationship in real time. I remember reading that Diana was so traumatized by her parents divorce that it was something she never wanted for herself . Charles was seen as someone who could never divorce her because , at the time , divorce would be unthinkable for a future monarch . As a naive 19 year old , he seemed like a safe choice, though both had serious doubts right before the wedding .

[@Donna_Relaxing]

Guurrrlll I am SO HERE for the ride!!!!! WowW. Look, HARRY has brought all this mess back up about his mother the beloved Diana and by his and Megs lies, it has forced people to "set the record stright" thus, we NOW know more about Diana than we ever wanted.

[@jennil7797]

Those coming to the subject with preconceived notions and closed minds will never happily accept that there is rarely a completely innocent or completely guilty party when a relationship doesn't work out. In this instance, we were fed different ideas by the press who could not give a toss about the truth, only about keeping their journalistic career alive by selling juicy or schmaltzy stories. Truth is probably somewhere between, but we can never know. None the less, this book is interesting, another, more honest opinion than he ones given in the press or by biographers paid to say nice or sympathetic things about the subject that then, inevitably requires constantly casting the other party in a bad light.

[@sythompson9331]

I am loving this view of a time in Highgrove. All the tidbits you share give us little bits of the full story. Thank you (I really don't care who was in what bed, when or why

[@gabbyb4493]

I am enjoying this book because it is so honest and gives a real picture of what their Royal Life really was like. I am glad King Charles finally found happiness with Camilla. it is a shame Diana never had the chance too. However, I don’t feel Dodi Fayed would have made her happy. She was on the wrong path. if people get that upset over a book they should tune out.

[@janetbowersox83]

So enjoyable having you review this book. I am in the US, in Pennsylvania, but have always been a royal fan and its refreshing hearing of everyday issues that make them more real and human. The snippett with Zara is charming! The boys must have had alot of fun with her! Thank you for sharing and look forward to the next chapter! Have a very Happy Christmas!

[@sahdogwrangler5594]

I'm also in PA & have been a fan of all things British for many years. Happy Christmas!

[@janetbowersox83]

You as well!

[@Jordiema]

Very well done! You have the wonderful ability to comprehend what you’re reading and entertaining your YT audience…much appreciated btw. Can’t keep everyone happy all the time 🤣 Let them have their whinge…says something about them don’t you reckon? Merry Christmas 🎄

[@thevintageread]

Thank you! You too!

[@maureenball6733]

Yes my copy of the housekeeper's book cost me about £20 from World of Books. When I get to reading it it will be lovely having the insight already. Diana's story is inevitably one of pain and not easy for a Diana supporter. Obviously the mistress wasn't free on Sunday evenings!

[@3_times_mum520]

King Charles would never have been demanding, that the eeg should be ready, when he walked into the house.. And I don't believe he would be impressed.. learning that his cook was wasting food!!

[@katiehill619]

Really enjoying the dive into this book - I hadn't heard of it, and its a really interesting perspective on things. I thihk it all goes back to your comments in the first video -- this is about the dynamics within this marriage. Two decent people, extremely poorly matched, bouncing off each other and doing the best they knew how. There are no good guys and bad guys in all this.

[@wendieking4184]

Hopefully they made egg salad for the staff. 😆

[@elainebines6803]

I'm really loving this house keepers book. I get all cosy in my pj's cup of hot chocolate, climb into bed and pop my iPad on 😊

[@suew000]

Me too

[@dianemcdonough1058]

Give the eggs to the staff❣️

[@SusanRobbins]

What a good & good-hearted story teller you are. I love listening to you. Merry Christmas from Mississippi in the USA!

[@thevintageread]

Thank you so much!

[@felinetherapy4782]

Ugh what a mess. I didn't like Diana when I was growing up, but have sympathy for her now. I don't think I would have reacted much different in her position and at that age.

[@Janet7144]

I adored Diana but I think you make a really balanced review of this book. It's all very fascinating, especially about the eggs 😂

[@eileen8253]

I enjoy these readings. People need to understand diana was human, not a saint.

[@derek.....]

Charles was writing his Christmas cards with a fountain pen when he shouts out “bloody thing is leaking everywhere and ruining everything!” Camilla hears him and asks “do you want a spare?” Charles mumbles “No! that’s who I’m talking about!”

[@annbannister1118]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@suzannebrown945]

Is that you…Dezz….?

[@graphiquejack]

Omg… good one!

[@wendieking4184]

😆

[@jackiegould1569]

😂😂😂

[@esmekaffen4961]

This is such fun and very enjoyable! Ignore the whingers, they will whinge no matter what. Your very balanced, fair and insightful analysis is spot on imo and much appreciated. We’re all human after all. Many thanks for this and wishing you and yours a very merry Christmas 🎁🎄and happy new year 🍾🥳🥂❤

[@thevintageread]

Thank you! Will do! Merry Christmas to you too. 💕

[@Jasmine-he2fq]

I love your very balanced view on all this. I've always had a rather bad view of Diana but your insights are giving a much more rounded picture and I find myself much more sympathetic towards her. What a shame D and C couldn't work it out it seems as if they had so much to learn from each other...but they were just far too different.

[@sarahholland2600]

Agree. The age gap didnt help either. He was 32 going on 45 & she was 19 going on 15. She'd have been better off with a kind, mid level aristocrat who'd give her lots of babies & have time for her.

[@galeocean4182]

I love this book. History informs the present. Its given me more compassion for the family - even Harry I wonder if Prince William looked to his grandparent's marriage as a guide for what he wanted in life? He and Catherine appear to have it figured out. I hope so. Happy Holidays!

[@thevintageread]

I had the same reaction X

[@amandamandamands]

I think it also helped that they took their time, including a breakup, to be sure that Catherine was prepared for what life as a royal would be.

[@Countrygirl5819]

I think it helps that the Middletons are a close-knit family. It helps that they have a solid family behind them.

[@merlepadilla9119]

I love listening to Shauna and her way of making the story come to life. She gets my attention each time. I enjoy every episode. Thank you Shauna for making my day better.

[@judi7282]

I am enjoying this review. I loved Diana, always feeling Charles was not a nice person. The last years, I have collected a lot of royal books and my feelings have softened towards Charles. I believe if Charles and Camilla were able to marry from the start of their relationship, a lot of the problems would have been avoided. I believe Charles and Camilla are very much in love, and Camilla is a wonderful queen. Charles does have the right people around him, a very loving family that will not sell the story for the money! Thank you for this review.

[@catco8644]

I get the feeling Diana wanted to be Queen much more than she cared for Charles. Her narcissism made her believe that Charles was lucky to have her. She took advantage of her position in all aspects of her life. They were very unsuited for each other and the age difference definitely played a big part. Diana played emotional games and seems very immature! The families pushing him together was the biggest mistake!

[@judi7282]

@@catco8644 very true! I do see true love with Catherine and William. I am praying for King Charles and Princess Catherine 🙏✝️❤️

[@karmac2023]

I’m really enjoying this one, pls ignore the haters! ❤

[@paulinewilson613]

I'm finding this story from the Housekeeper a fascinating insight into what went on at Highgrove, thank you for sharing this and can't wait until the next segment xxx

[@parkwood6334]

I think we, as humans, can reach a stage of calm over an upsetting situation and then something gets rubbed in your face and triggers you.

[@cathyriker2505]

I feel exactly as you describe. I can understand both sides and empathize with both Charles and Diana. I’m here for it! SIP!

[@lizzysherwood8607]

I am enjoying your reading though Shauna, Thank YOU!

[@thevintageread]

You are so welcome

[@Monzeitia]

After what is happening with the press right now with W&C, I hope they are taken Phillip advice

[@jgibbs651]

As you say, the book was published before Diana's untimely death. Unfortunately since her death far, far too many books have ignored the less attractive aspects of Diana's character and actions - she has almost become a secular saint. This is not only untruthful but damaging - dare I say we have only to look at the very public struggles of Diana's younger son to see how damaging and dangerous this approach is. Barbara Barnes: Diana WAS cross about her going to the party in Mustique; although Barbara was owed holiday and Diana agreed when she could take her time off, she was incensed that she was at the party, partly (I suspect) because Princess Margaret was also there. She saw Barbara mixing with the Glenconners as a threat because Barbara had been their nanny for a long time and Diana swiped her from them: she was always convinced that Barbara gossiped to Anne Glenconner about life with the Waleses and that information was passed to Princess Margaret who was no fan of Diana. As for the manner of Barbara's departure, it was disgraceful: Diana sacked her and ordered her to pack her bags and leave immediately, stipulating that neither of the boys were to be told that she was going or when - probably to "pay her back" for the boys' obvious affection for her. It was cruel and showed how stupid Diana was because it set up in the boys, especially Harry, the same kind of fear of people just vanishing that Diana claimed she suffered from. The boiled eggs: why throw them our, far better to make egg mayonnaise!

[@heatblair]

I’m an American and when I read your comment, I was like “Surely all mayonnaise is made with eggs!” Then I realized you probably meant what we call an “Egg Salad Sandwich” in the USA. So I googled and sure enough, that is the case! Now I know how to ask for an “Egg Salad Sandwich” when I visit the UK, I will ask for “Egg Mayonnaise!” Sending love from across the pond 💕

[@RSal847]

Have yourself a very merry Christmas Shauna 🎄🎉🍾🥂 wishing you & yours a very happy & healthy 2024

[@lbc517]

Thank you for the review of this book. Wasnt aware of it. Very interesting to me. Really a shame that Diana and Charles couldnt make their marriage work.

[@user-zb9gi4wn7v]

I am absolutely loving this series on this book. It’s your channel, you do you !! Have a great Christmas and New Year everyone.

[@lizziesimmi5646]

I love these kinds of books that provide an insight from the perspective of the staff, real life upstairs downstairs. Historian Lucy Worsley has made some great tv programmes about lives of the servants from royalty to people who lived in the big country houses. I really look forward to The Housekeepers Diary. Thank you

[@jojj1258]

It's healthy to hear different perspectives its what makes life interesting

[@jeanross7430]

All this drama, can you imagine the dreadful effect this had on the boy's? I would want eggs the way I liked then too.

[@karmac2023]

Im really enjoying this book! Makes me want to read it!

[@dianacooper-havlik4115]

I love this series!!😊

[@janetclaireSays]

I wonder if the late Queen ever admitted to herself or anyone else that she, and the institution, were hugely to blame for that huge mistake of a marriage?

[@abbatrouble]

Diana fooled everybody with her lies and pretending - not just the Queen.

[@elizabethcloutman8913]

I really don’t think the queen realized that Charles was not actually in love with Diana. He had dragged his feet at marriage for years. (He lost his initial chance with Camilla because of this reluctance.) Both the queen and Prince Philip told him that it was unfair to Diana to string her along if he didn’t want to marry her. Charles somehow took that as an order. Even if his mother was the queen, if he couldn’t be mature enough at 32 to break up with Diana if he felt uneasy …Plus, Diana, young and wanting to please Charles, pretended to share Charles’ interests much more than she actually did. Even Camilla, when Charles asked what she thought of Diana, was fooled. And they’d only had a total of twelve dates before they became engaged. They hardly knew each other!

[@janetclaireSays]

@@elizabethcloutman8913 The Queen knew. They all knew he was in love with Camilla but thought doing his duty would be enough.

[@LeeDon76]

Diana’s father is on record saying he was sorry he did not warn the Royal family that Diana was very difficult.

[@elizabethcloutman8913]

@@LeeDon76 Sadly, he was a sad and difficult man and neglectful father after divorcing Diana’s mother Frances. Indeed, his parents were difficult people, as well. Much unhappiness in the Spencer family.

[@deanedge5988]

Diana's attraction to those looking for a religious feeling of devotion continues to be uncanny. It also casts Charles in a sort of Ted Hughes role in the "romanza" as he called it over Sylvia Plath. Anyway Seasons Greetings.

[@2000konnie]

I can't picture Charles being OK with freshly cooked eggs being thrown out. That's not like him to be wasteful. I would have cooked the discarded ones to a solid yoke and made deviled eggs or egg salad. Anyway, another delightful reading. Thankyou.

[@thevintageread]

Exactly!!

[@Claireanlite]

I really think you are very fair when giving reviews. I enjoy them immensely. Merry Christmas to you and your family!

[@thevintageread]

Thank you! You too!

[@KeiPalace]

Save the eggs for an egg salad! maybe that's just me.

[@marienykreim4091]

Shauna, have a wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year!🎊 🎉🍾. Love the story retells! Can’t wait to hear each of the next Chapters😊.

[@eleni1968]

Thank You for this. Loved your "disclaimer"!! I also loved your background on Diana and Charles so that the audience understood why their marriage "disintegrated". Unfortunately, this book NEVER made it to the US because then we would have had a better understanding what had been going on. Cheers from NYC!!!

[@dianelee2318]

The wasting of the eggs drove me nuts!

[@nanellevantonder3767]

I just love your book readings. Carry on😊. Love the royals in all their human glory😊.

[@starrycrown]

That’s a very fair point about Diana’s reactions. I would have probably reacted the same way back then, too, about snark from my husband. I admit it! 😊

[@kungazopa2831]

As 😊an astrologer I can unequivocably say that the synastry chart between Camilla & Charles is a much better relationship chart than that is between Diana & Charles.

[@cynthiakiy1406]

You are marvelous! I wish you lived next door. Merry Christmas to you and your family from Canada.

[@thevintageread]

Same to you!

[@agnesvanya2329]

Interesting that Diana dumped so many friends, yet her lovers always chucked her. Hewitt broke up with her twice, and Hasnet Khan also ended it first, as did an Italian chef and many others. Her dramatic showdowns with Charles seemed to coincide with her being dumped by her lover of the moment while Charles had a stable and loving relationship with Camilla.

[@LS-mp7co]

This has been so much fun going through this book. Thank you!

[@katherinethompson4500]

People being over sensitive- this book is one ladies viewpoint. I think you are being fair

[@dc2london]

What comes across more and more is what a damaged individual Henry is. How horrified Diana would be by his actions/words. How horrified and flummoxed HM King Charles must be. Regardless of his childhood (and there are millions who could give his a run for its money), he was an adult when he began his current descent into obscurity. His wife was in her mid-thirties - old enough to have a sense of right and wrong. Neither of them was an untried 19 year old facing an onslaught - and that's what Diana faced in the 1980s and 90s. Footage of what occurred whenever she set foot outside is staggering and frightening. Diana *grew up* with that molding her - an already damaged and insecure individual. Henry never faced that and lord knows his wife never did, no matter how many car parks she's strolled through. Henry had everything, even with whatever difficulties he faced growing up. He chose to throw every bit of it away, burn the memories to ash, and fling the ashes into a volcano. The only reason that could "excuse" his behaviour is mental illness. And the shame is: if that is the reason, he won't get the help he needs where he is now. Had he married wisely, he would have had the same support that William appears to have with Catherine. With that support, and his place in history, he could have accomplished great things. As things stand, Henry is on a sinking ship, clinging to the anchor, so it can take him to the bottom of the ocean. And all of that is terribly, terribly sad. As for his wife, she was a washed-up mediocre actress who'd apparently always used someone to get a leg up (or over). She wasn't ever going to accomplish a d*mn thing of use for anyone else or set the world on fire. Her only "contribution" is going to be the anchor.

[@carolbaughan8768]

Ball and chain. Harry the hostage.

[@user-hx3qr4ls2q]

Now, now, let's state some verifiable facts. The Duchess of Sussex is a graduate of Northwestern University - an excellent university. She volunteered in the kitchen of St. Felix Centre will WORKING in Toronto on Suits. Her character on Suits was that of a BIRACIAL woman. Meghan did a PSA in 2012 about being proud of BOTH sides of her family. She gave a speech at the UN and was a world ambassador for World Vision Canada which involved traveling to Rwanda and India. She also had a successful blog, The Tig.

[@silva7493]

Ken Wharfe singing arias, and tap dancing!!! OMG, I L O V E this book!!!🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@reneej7594]

Oh my, Shauna!!! What are people saying in the comments??!?? Just remember the most vocal are always the minority. The rest of us just enjoy your content and don’t always give the much deserved appreciation!!! We’re busy, too!! But, big THANK YOU!!! Maybe a little too late, but well deserved, for the thoughtful and insightful content you continue to provide in such an engaging way!!! ❤❤❤ (Please don’t stop reading the comments. Many creators have and it’s understood why. But one reason why we love you so much is that for such an intelligent and charming person you are, you are also very down to earth and accessible. Don’t let this get ya down. The majority enjoy your content and carry on…😅)

[@TheLadyAnt1]

Been bingeing on your series! Absolutely great...somehow I've managed to miss them up till now. Making up for lost time lol...I never ever did trust Diana! Anybody who looks up 'through the eyes' as she did, to me, is not to be trusted.

[@thevintageread]

Thanks for watching! 😊💗

[@irener1111]

I agree 100% with your opinion on their marriage. It was a tragic circumstance for all involved but I feel more for Charles. He has been made the villain all these years and I feel was kind of forced into the situation.

[@MW93249]

Harry went Christmas shopping for his wife and bought perfume, the checkout lady asks, "Do you need a paper bag sir?" Harry replied, "No thanks, she's not that ugly." Edit: like your snippets

[@annbannister1118]

Oooooh good one,🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@ME27690]

😂😂

[@MD123-v7f]

Better comment than Desperate Derek 😂😂

[@jeanettesantarelli1795]

That comment was unnecessary

[@1234cheerful]

@@jeanettesantarelli1795 comic relief. You weren't ready for it.

[@brendatruant7404]

Someone holding “an egg flag”. 👏🤣. So funny, and so telling about your practical and unbiased approach!! Thank you Shauna! Merry Christmas and all the best to you and your family.

[@thevintageread]

😁

[@amandamandamands]

I don't think a lot of people know/remember that at that time who Charles married had to be considered suitable. This meant a virgin from the aristocracy. It was only after Charles and Andrew had their marriages break down that the rules were changed regarding who was considered suitable. Princess Margaret wasn't allowed to marry the person that she wanted to for the same reason.

[@user-hx3qr4ls2q]

Princess Margaret carried on an affair with a married man with children. He divorced his wife. Marrying a divorcee wasn't an option for her Uncle, the King, why would Margaret have thought it would be okay for her?

[@annetteolson2428]

In a house full of people I am sure someone else would have enjoyed some hard boiled eggs, even if they were not up to Charles' specifications.