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William at 40: The Making of a Modern Monarch
‘A landmark new book’ Daily Mail
Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, is destined one day to be king. Determined to serve his country as his grandmother, the Queen has so selflessly done for seven decades, William is the epitome of a loving husband to Catherine, and a devoted father to their three George, Charlotte and Louis.
In public, William appears calm, balanced and determined. He is passionate about safeguarding the environment and helping to protect species under threat of extinction. The Duke and his wife have also worked tirelessly to remove the stigma that continues to mark mental health problems.
In private, however, those close to him say that William, while being a dedicated servant of the Crown can defy his calm, family-guy public demeanour.
This is the definitive account – insightful and nuanced – of the life of the Duke of Cambridge as he approaches his milestone birthday. Jobson explores the complex character of the man who will one day reign as King William V. It is the story of the making of a king for our times.
THE STORY OF THE MAKING OF A MONARCH FOR THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY.
Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, is destined one day to be king. Determined to serve his country as his grandmother, the Queen has so selflessly done for seven decades, William is the epitome of a loving husband to Catherine, and a devoted father to their three George, Charlotte and Louis.
In public, William appears calm, balanced and determined. He is passionate about safeguarding the environment and helping to protect species under threat of extinction. The Duke and his wife have also worked tirelessly to remove the stigma that continues to mark mental health problems.
In private, however, those close to him say that William, while being a dedicated servant of the Crown can defy his calm, family-guy public demeanour.
This is the definitive account – insightful and nuanced – of the life of the Duke of Cambridge as he approaches his milestone birthday. Jobson explores the complex character of the man who will one day reign as King William V. It is the story of the making of a king for our times.
THE STORY OF THE MAKING OF A MONARCH FOR THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY.
335 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 5, 2022
346 people are currently reading
285 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
November 2, 2022
3.5*
Robert Jobson has been a Royal Correspondent for many UK newspapers since 1991. He's an established award winning journalist and has written several other books on other members of the British Royal Family as well. It's a well written book but I was not completely satisfied with it.
I was expecting a more detailed deep tribute for William's 40th Birthday. I wanted to learn more about what makes him tick and what actually shaped his personality. Surprisingly, there was little information on his early years. I was hoping to learn some new things about that era. The one new thing that I don't think I've ever heard about was that Diana gave birth to him standing up. Nothing Earth shattering but just an interesting tidbit. I would have liked to hear some more stories from when he was young. I was very surprised that the book did not really go into detail about Diana's death. I wanted to really get to know his thoughts and feelings and how he coped with that. It really was only a couple of pages. I found that odd. He seems for the most part to get along with his father and he is proud of him but I wish the book went into detail about his relationship with Camilla. There is a lot about him meeting Kate and their relationship but I feel like other relationships were just glossed over. There's also a bit about his Air Ambulance work and his mental health crisis stemming from that. I enjoyed reading about his conservation work and passion. Of course there was mention of his relationship with his brother, Prince Harry before and after his marriage to Meghan Markle.
If you are new to Royal Watching you will enjoy the book and it will help you to understand the makings of a King-to-be. As a Royal Watcher myself for many years (starting with when William's mother, Diana married Prince Charles) I did not learn anything really new in this book but it was interesting to read. I like Prince William and I think he will make a great King when the time comes. He's not without his faults but when it comes to his brother Prince Harry I do feel for him. In the position that William is in he really does not have many people he can trust or count on. Now the person he most trusted is the one he can't trust anymore. I think his strongest point is that he has a loving partner who is there to support him every step of the way. I'm glad to see that Prince William has now accepted his destiny and is prepared to live a life of duty for his country. His Grandmother would be proud 👑
Robert Jobson has been a Royal Correspondent for many UK newspapers since 1991. He's an established award winning journalist and has written several other books on other members of the British Royal Family as well. It's a well written book but I was not completely satisfied with it.
I was expecting a more detailed deep tribute for William's 40th Birthday. I wanted to learn more about what makes him tick and what actually shaped his personality. Surprisingly, there was little information on his early years. I was hoping to learn some new things about that era. The one new thing that I don't think I've ever heard about was that Diana gave birth to him standing up. Nothing Earth shattering but just an interesting tidbit. I would have liked to hear some more stories from when he was young. I was very surprised that the book did not really go into detail about Diana's death. I wanted to really get to know his thoughts and feelings and how he coped with that. It really was only a couple of pages. I found that odd. He seems for the most part to get along with his father and he is proud of him but I wish the book went into detail about his relationship with Camilla. There is a lot about him meeting Kate and their relationship but I feel like other relationships were just glossed over. There's also a bit about his Air Ambulance work and his mental health crisis stemming from that. I enjoyed reading about his conservation work and passion. Of course there was mention of his relationship with his brother, Prince Harry before and after his marriage to Meghan Markle.
If you are new to Royal Watching you will enjoy the book and it will help you to understand the makings of a King-to-be. As a Royal Watcher myself for many years (starting with when William's mother, Diana married Prince Charles) I did not learn anything really new in this book but it was interesting to read. I like Prince William and I think he will make a great King when the time comes. He's not without his faults but when it comes to his brother Prince Harry I do feel for him. In the position that William is in he really does not have many people he can trust or count on. Now the person he most trusted is the one he can't trust anymore. I think his strongest point is that he has a loving partner who is there to support him every step of the way. I'm glad to see that Prince William has now accepted his destiny and is prepared to live a life of duty for his country. His Grandmother would be proud 👑
January 5, 2023
There seems to be a deluge of books and films about the royal family just now. Many are controversial, making public that which possibly should remain private. This book is in the middle and is a refreshing take on the young Prince. Enjoyable!
May 13, 2022
thanks to the publishers and netgalley for a free copy in return for an open and honest review.
Felt neutral on this book as large parts weren't about William at all dealing with charles/diana and later problems with Harry. It was an okay read overall.
Felt neutral on this book as large parts weren't about William at all dealing with charles/diana and later problems with Harry. It was an okay read overall.
May 6, 2022
Nothing new here
Even the past 4 books I have read on Harry and Megxit have more new material. Seems to be the season of writing books for the sake or it by rehashing old news and even paragraphs of other books to make some money. Avoid The Palace Papers also
Even the past 4 books I have read on Harry and Megxit have more new material. Seems to be the season of writing books for the sake or it by rehashing old news and even paragraphs of other books to make some money. Avoid The Palace Papers also
November 5, 2022
I haven't read any books about the Royal family and I found that Robert Jobson's biography does a good job highlighting what has happened with the family over the last 40 years.
Even though this was a biography about William, the stories of Charles and Diana and Harry and Meghan did take up a chunk of the book. I liked how the book includes recent events including the aftermath of the Oprah interview.
This read to me more of a summary and unbiased recount of William's life so far. I don't think that it had any new information that royal watchers will go crazy for.
Thank you to Netgallery and Ad Lib Publishers for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Even though this was a biography about William, the stories of Charles and Diana and Harry and Meghan did take up a chunk of the book. I liked how the book includes recent events including the aftermath of the Oprah interview.
This read to me more of a summary and unbiased recount of William's life so far. I don't think that it had any new information that royal watchers will go crazy for.
Thank you to Netgallery and Ad Lib Publishers for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 4, 2022
With thanks to the publishers and Netgalley for a free ARC in return for my review.
I really don't know what the point of this book is, yes, William is 40! But I couldn't actually find any new information about William that I didn't already know, there are hundreds of books about the Royal's and this book of the possible King for our country had very little new information to offer me.
There has been books about Harry and Meghan's withdrawal from Royal life that has more new information about William in it than this book actually does and I understand that William is a private man and perhaps doesn't want to live his life through the press like Harry so I value that, just don't feel there is much of a book to be read here!
I really don't know what the point of this book is, yes, William is 40! But I couldn't actually find any new information about William that I didn't already know, there are hundreds of books about the Royal's and this book of the possible King for our country had very little new information to offer me.
There has been books about Harry and Meghan's withdrawal from Royal life that has more new information about William in it than this book actually does and I understand that William is a private man and perhaps doesn't want to live his life through the press like Harry so I value that, just don't feel there is much of a book to be read here!
May 5, 2022
This book starts with Charles and Diana’s wedding and the sad aftermath. Diana’s pain and tears at Charles’s love for Camilla led her to confide in William and he, in turn, tried to comfort her. This was a lot of responsibility for his young shoulders.
Diana loved to take her boys on a quiet getaway vacation, but keeping journalists and photographers away was almost impossible.
Of the two boys, William was more the rule follower, while Harry was the rule breaker. We also see how strong both boys were when their mother died.
The story follows William’s time at college and his relationship with Kate (Catherine). He wanted to have some time to do things he wanted before taking on his royal duties. He also needed to join several branches of the military and do his time there. He and Kate kept their relationship although it was hard for her. Finally, when they were 28, their engagement was announced and they married. Kate fitted right in with the royal family and took to her duties very well.
Next comes her pregnancies and the difficulties she had with severe morning sickness.
We then go on to the Meghan and Harry show that exposes even more of her erratic behavior and embarrassment for the British royal family.
All in all, I enjoyed this book immensely and hope that readers will read it and absorb the fact that the Royal family is hard working and want only the best for their people and the entire world. Well done.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Diana loved to take her boys on a quiet getaway vacation, but keeping journalists and photographers away was almost impossible.
Of the two boys, William was more the rule follower, while Harry was the rule breaker. We also see how strong both boys were when their mother died.
The story follows William’s time at college and his relationship with Kate (Catherine). He wanted to have some time to do things he wanted before taking on his royal duties. He also needed to join several branches of the military and do his time there. He and Kate kept their relationship although it was hard for her. Finally, when they were 28, their engagement was announced and they married. Kate fitted right in with the royal family and took to her duties very well.
Next comes her pregnancies and the difficulties she had with severe morning sickness.
We then go on to the Meghan and Harry show that exposes even more of her erratic behavior and embarrassment for the British royal family.
All in all, I enjoyed this book immensely and hope that readers will read it and absorb the fact that the Royal family is hard working and want only the best for their people and the entire world. Well done.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
May 14, 2022
Wonderful behind the scenes look at William how his personality makes those close to him at ease. From his mother and her first steps in royal life he takes his down to earth attitude. He’s known his life is mapped out since birth but try’s to put his own mark on it. This is a book well worth picking up if you wish to know more of the story not just the little excerpts in newspapers.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 29, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this early. While there wasn’t a lot of new information in this book, I thought it was a nice review of William’s life so far. I also loved that it was neutral to both Diana and Charles something that I have had a difficult time finding in a book. I recommend this read.
July 15, 2022
Prince William turned 40 on June 21. Always a milestone, a book should not be missing. Prince William is the eldest son of Prince Charles and Diana Spencer. William is second in line to the British throne, and as a result, after his father, heir to the throne of the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Jamaica, the Bahamas, Grenada, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Antigua and Barbuda, Belize and Saint Kitts and Nevis.
This book about William begins with the history of Charles and Diana. A familiar story with a not-so-happy ending. History is told in a neutral way, so no Diana or Charles side. The author has tried to describe a good view of William in this difficult period for him. In this way we go step by step through the life of the prince. Of course, the death of Princess Diana is extensively discussed, especially about the impact that it had for both William and Harry.
William’s study time and the development of his relationship with Catherine, it will be in this book . Of course a lot of attention is paid to William and Catherine. The love of his life, that’s for sure.
William at 40, not only highlights his life, the first part is a lot about Diana and Charles, you may find that disturbing, but if you read through it you will know what made William who he is today. The author is well aware of that.
The problems surrounding Harry and Meghan and what that means for the monarchy and for William, as brother and future king, are also extensively examined. It must not have been easy for William. William who has always felt responsible for Harry…
The problems surrounding Prince Andrew are also discussed and also how William feels about it. Does the book largely address the problems? No, of course not, William’s activities are also extensively offered, his military career, his work as an Air Ambulance Pilot, his initiatives for many charities, such as mental health care, homeless people, climate, animal welfare, etc.
It is a good biography that portrays the future king, who stands in the middle of modern life, a man with a mission, heart in the right place, assisted by a loving wife and 3 beautiful children. The book is definitely recommended!
This book about William begins with the history of Charles and Diana. A familiar story with a not-so-happy ending. History is told in a neutral way, so no Diana or Charles side. The author has tried to describe a good view of William in this difficult period for him. In this way we go step by step through the life of the prince. Of course, the death of Princess Diana is extensively discussed, especially about the impact that it had for both William and Harry.
William’s study time and the development of his relationship with Catherine, it will be in this book . Of course a lot of attention is paid to William and Catherine. The love of his life, that’s for sure.
William at 40, not only highlights his life, the first part is a lot about Diana and Charles, you may find that disturbing, but if you read through it you will know what made William who he is today. The author is well aware of that.
The problems surrounding Harry and Meghan and what that means for the monarchy and for William, as brother and future king, are also extensively examined. It must not have been easy for William. William who has always felt responsible for Harry…
The problems surrounding Prince Andrew are also discussed and also how William feels about it. Does the book largely address the problems? No, of course not, William’s activities are also extensively offered, his military career, his work as an Air Ambulance Pilot, his initiatives for many charities, such as mental health care, homeless people, climate, animal welfare, etc.
It is a good biography that portrays the future king, who stands in the middle of modern life, a man with a mission, heart in the right place, assisted by a loving wife and 3 beautiful children. The book is definitely recommended!
August 21, 2022
While the content is interesting (but nothing new to anyone who reads about the British royal family) this is the worst-edited book I can remember reading. It reads as if the author cut and pasted from various articles, so events are often described multiple times in consecutive paragraphs, or even out of order. If you want to read a recent William biography try Battle of the Brothers (although I found that openly biased against Duchess Meghan—referring to her as if she and her Suits character are the same person, etc.).
July 17, 2024
Kniha nie je len nejakým suchopárnym životopisom, ale dozviete sa v nej aj veľa pikošiek. Napríklad ako princ William miloval v detstve svoju plyšovú koalu a neskôr sa stal veľkým bojovníkom proti klimatickým zmenám a za záchranu prírody, zvierat.
Ako študoval s oceňovaným hercom Eddie Redmaynom, ktorý získal Oscara pre najlepšieho herca za stvárnenie fyzika Stephena Hawkinga a možno ho poznáte aj z trilógie Fantastické zvery, ktorých dej sa odohráva pred Harrym Potterom.
Zábavná je historka, keď sa malý William stretol so sirom Bobom Geldofom, ktorý prišiel do paláca hovoriť o hlade v Afrike. Malého princa prekvapil Geldofov vzhľad a v jednej chvíli vykríkol - „Je celý špinavý. Má strapaté vlasy a mokré topánky.“
Slávny írsky hudobník a politický aktivista to vraj nenechal len tak a odvrkol: „Buď ticho, ty malý nevychovanec. Aj ty si strapatý.“
Smutná je zasa príhoda o narodení Williamovho brata Harryho. Charles sa vraj netajil tým, že chce po chlapcovi dievčatko a Diana mu neprezradila, čo čakajú. Keď sa Harry narodil, jeho prvá reakcia bola: „Bože môj, je to chlapec.“ Charles síce neskôr tvrdil, že to mal byť žart, no Dianu to veľmi zasiahlo. Rovnako zraňujúca bola aj druhá Charlesova poznámka: „Ešte k tomu je ryšavý.“, čo už Diane trhalo srdce, pretože v jej rodokmeni je veľa ryšavcov. To bol mimochodom jeden z hlavných zlomov ich odlúčenia a postupného úpadku manželstva.
Samozrejme, nechýbajú kapitoly o jeho svadbe s Kate, ktorú v roku 2018 sledovali desiatky miliónov ľudí na celom svete a zúčastnili sa na nej napríklad David Backham a jeho manželka, bývalá spajska Victoria, či Oprah Winfrey. Dozvieme sa viac o vzťahu bratov Williama a Harryho, aj o tom, aké to bolo, keď prišla do ich rodiny Megan Marklová a samozrejme, veľa sa píše o Williamovej manželke vojvodkyni Catherine.
Porekadlo „za každým veľkým mužom treba hľadať veľkú ženu“ bezpochyby ešte nebolo pravdivejšie než v prípade Williama a Catherine. Sobáš s ňou ho ukotvil v realite. Sú si rovnocenní a sú priateľmi, ako aj milencami a rodičmi. Catherine ho naučila oceniť moderné médiá a využívať ich na podporu dobročinných cieľov a zlepšenie svojho verejného imidžu. Privilegovaná a nevolená inštitúcia ako monarchia musí zabezpečiť, aby verejnosť, od ktorej závisí jej existencia, mala uspokojivý prístup k jej hlavným predstaviteľom.
Robert Jobson sa snaží hlbšie nazrieť pod obraz, akým sa prezentuje princ William na verejnosti – na skutočnú tvár muža na prahu stredného veku, ktorý sa jedného dňa stane štyridsiatym tretím monarchom. Sleduje jeho detstvo, verejnosťou ostro sledovaný rozvod jeho rodičov a vplyv Dianinej tragickej smrti, keď mal len pätnásť rokov. To všetko určite ovplyvnilo jeho formovanie.
Autor sa detailne venuje aj jeho univerzitnému vzdelaniu, priateľom, zoznámenie s Catherine Middletonovou, ich sobáš, deti.
Kniha sa venuje aj Williamovou snahou o záchranu planéty a jeho zeleným aktivitám. Princ je veľkým obdivovateľom sira Davida Attenborougha a objavil sa aj v dokumente Nicka Kenta o Tanzánii, kde mu ukázali obchod so slonovinou, v ktorom boli zhabané kly v hodnote dosahujúcej na čiernom trhu takmer šesťdesiat miliónov eur. Po návrate do Londýna pozval svetových lídrov na medzinárodnú konferenciu o boji proti nelegálnemu obchodovaniu s voľne žijúcimi druhmi.
Autor Robert Jobson je redaktor i rozhlasový novinár, ktorý sleduje životy kľúčových predstaviteľov kráľovského rodu Windsorovcov viac než tri desaťročia. Mal to šťastie mnohokrát sa osobne stretnúť s princom Williamom a ďalšími členmi rodiny vrátane jeho manželky Catherine.
„Priniesol som mnohé exkluzívne články, z ktorých niektoré získali aj ocenenia, napísal som aj niekoľko dobre prijatých kníh o Williamových rodičoch princovi Charlesovi a princeznej Diane, ako aj o zosnulom princovi Philipovi, vojvodovi z Edinburghu,“ dodáva Jobson.
Aj preto jeho kniha nejde len po povrchu.
Ako študoval s oceňovaným hercom Eddie Redmaynom, ktorý získal Oscara pre najlepšieho herca za stvárnenie fyzika Stephena Hawkinga a možno ho poznáte aj z trilógie Fantastické zvery, ktorých dej sa odohráva pred Harrym Potterom.
Zábavná je historka, keď sa malý William stretol so sirom Bobom Geldofom, ktorý prišiel do paláca hovoriť o hlade v Afrike. Malého princa prekvapil Geldofov vzhľad a v jednej chvíli vykríkol - „Je celý špinavý. Má strapaté vlasy a mokré topánky.“
Slávny írsky hudobník a politický aktivista to vraj nenechal len tak a odvrkol: „Buď ticho, ty malý nevychovanec. Aj ty si strapatý.“
Smutná je zasa príhoda o narodení Williamovho brata Harryho. Charles sa vraj netajil tým, že chce po chlapcovi dievčatko a Diana mu neprezradila, čo čakajú. Keď sa Harry narodil, jeho prvá reakcia bola: „Bože môj, je to chlapec.“ Charles síce neskôr tvrdil, že to mal byť žart, no Dianu to veľmi zasiahlo. Rovnako zraňujúca bola aj druhá Charlesova poznámka: „Ešte k tomu je ryšavý.“, čo už Diane trhalo srdce, pretože v jej rodokmeni je veľa ryšavcov. To bol mimochodom jeden z hlavných zlomov ich odlúčenia a postupného úpadku manželstva.
Samozrejme, nechýbajú kapitoly o jeho svadbe s Kate, ktorú v roku 2018 sledovali desiatky miliónov ľudí na celom svete a zúčastnili sa na nej napríklad David Backham a jeho manželka, bývalá spajska Victoria, či Oprah Winfrey. Dozvieme sa viac o vzťahu bratov Williama a Harryho, aj o tom, aké to bolo, keď prišla do ich rodiny Megan Marklová a samozrejme, veľa sa píše o Williamovej manželke vojvodkyni Catherine.
Porekadlo „za každým veľkým mužom treba hľadať veľkú ženu“ bezpochyby ešte nebolo pravdivejšie než v prípade Williama a Catherine. Sobáš s ňou ho ukotvil v realite. Sú si rovnocenní a sú priateľmi, ako aj milencami a rodičmi. Catherine ho naučila oceniť moderné médiá a využívať ich na podporu dobročinných cieľov a zlepšenie svojho verejného imidžu. Privilegovaná a nevolená inštitúcia ako monarchia musí zabezpečiť, aby verejnosť, od ktorej závisí jej existencia, mala uspokojivý prístup k jej hlavným predstaviteľom.
Robert Jobson sa snaží hlbšie nazrieť pod obraz, akým sa prezentuje princ William na verejnosti – na skutočnú tvár muža na prahu stredného veku, ktorý sa jedného dňa stane štyridsiatym tretím monarchom. Sleduje jeho detstvo, verejnosťou ostro sledovaný rozvod jeho rodičov a vplyv Dianinej tragickej smrti, keď mal len pätnásť rokov. To všetko určite ovplyvnilo jeho formovanie.
Autor sa detailne venuje aj jeho univerzitnému vzdelaniu, priateľom, zoznámenie s Catherine Middletonovou, ich sobáš, deti.
Kniha sa venuje aj Williamovou snahou o záchranu planéty a jeho zeleným aktivitám. Princ je veľkým obdivovateľom sira Davida Attenborougha a objavil sa aj v dokumente Nicka Kenta o Tanzánii, kde mu ukázali obchod so slonovinou, v ktorom boli zhabané kly v hodnote dosahujúcej na čiernom trhu takmer šesťdesiat miliónov eur. Po návrate do Londýna pozval svetových lídrov na medzinárodnú konferenciu o boji proti nelegálnemu obchodovaniu s voľne žijúcimi druhmi.
Autor Robert Jobson je redaktor i rozhlasový novinár, ktorý sleduje životy kľúčových predstaviteľov kráľovského rodu Windsorovcov viac než tri desaťročia. Mal to šťastie mnohokrát sa osobne stretnúť s princom Williamom a ďalšími členmi rodiny vrátane jeho manželky Catherine.
„Priniesol som mnohé exkluzívne články, z ktorých niektoré získali aj ocenenia, napísal som aj niekoľko dobre prijatých kníh o Williamových rodičoch princovi Charlesovi a princeznej Diane, ako aj o zosnulom princovi Philipovi, vojvodovi z Edinburghu,“ dodáva Jobson.
Aj preto jeho kniha nejde len po povrchu.
May 6, 2022
William at 40 is the story of William, first born son of Prince Charles and Diana Spencer.
I enjoy books on the Royal Family. This one is no exception. This book about William starts with the history of Charles and Diana. You can not have this story without including them. There is so much history, good and bad shared is this book. The monarchy itself has evolved for centuries to stay the same and yet it has changed with the times as it must in order to stay relevant. It has to be ever changing in spite of those that resist change.
After the Duke of Windsor abdication it was so important to carry on for the stability of the monarchy. Everything stayed the same even after Queen Elizabeth came to the throne. She has done much for the continuation but had to change in small ways during her rule. Because Charles is his mother's son he will rule much the same way as his mother due to the time period he was raised and his age. He was a forward thinker for his time, but not to the degree that of William. We have his mother to thank for much of that. It was important to her for her sons to see that they must see the world from outside the walls of the monarchy in order to understand the people and the Commonwealth they will serve. But they also were impacted by her life and death, the causes she believed in became an important springboard for the causes that are important to them now.
William spent a lot of time being mentored by the Queen about the monarchy, the life of duty and service to others is their calling in life. After watching his parents in a loveless marriage it was so important for him to choose a woman who would truly understand what was required to live this particular life. In Catherine he has found a crown jewel. She knows when to shine and when to stand beside and sometimes behind William, the future King. Because of all this combined knowledge and experiences William is the hope for the future. He is the best of his parents, grandparents, and prior generations. He has big ideas and expectations for his role in this world.
There is a lot of history about members of his family some we have known and some new information. Much of it can be seen as a recap of sorts but it truly is so much more than that. I felt as if the story was building and I was so caught up in the telling of it. I so look forward to seeing William as King and what he can accomplish.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
I enjoy books on the Royal Family. This one is no exception. This book about William starts with the history of Charles and Diana. You can not have this story without including them. There is so much history, good and bad shared is this book. The monarchy itself has evolved for centuries to stay the same and yet it has changed with the times as it must in order to stay relevant. It has to be ever changing in spite of those that resist change.
After the Duke of Windsor abdication it was so important to carry on for the stability of the monarchy. Everything stayed the same even after Queen Elizabeth came to the throne. She has done much for the continuation but had to change in small ways during her rule. Because Charles is his mother's son he will rule much the same way as his mother due to the time period he was raised and his age. He was a forward thinker for his time, but not to the degree that of William. We have his mother to thank for much of that. It was important to her for her sons to see that they must see the world from outside the walls of the monarchy in order to understand the people and the Commonwealth they will serve. But they also were impacted by her life and death, the causes she believed in became an important springboard for the causes that are important to them now.
William spent a lot of time being mentored by the Queen about the monarchy, the life of duty and service to others is their calling in life. After watching his parents in a loveless marriage it was so important for him to choose a woman who would truly understand what was required to live this particular life. In Catherine he has found a crown jewel. She knows when to shine and when to stand beside and sometimes behind William, the future King. Because of all this combined knowledge and experiences William is the hope for the future. He is the best of his parents, grandparents, and prior generations. He has big ideas and expectations for his role in this world.
There is a lot of history about members of his family some we have known and some new information. Much of it can be seen as a recap of sorts but it truly is so much more than that. I felt as if the story was building and I was so caught up in the telling of it. I so look forward to seeing William as King and what he can accomplish.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
November 17, 2025
3,5
Jako dlouholetá milovnice knih o britské královské rodině jsem po této biografii sáhla s velkým očekáváním – a i když mě nepřekvapila ničím zásadně novým, čtení jsem si užila. Robert Jobson umí psát čtivě a s respektem k faktům, díky čemuž se kniha čte lehce i přes to, že mnoho informací už bude pro fanoušky královské rodiny známých.
William pro mě osobně nikdy nebyl nejoblíbenější člen monarchie, ale autorovi se podařilo přiblížit jeho osobnost víc do hloubky – ukazuje ho nejen jako budoucího krále, ale i jako manžela, otce a muže, který se snaží najít rovnováhu mezi tradicí a moderním světem. Oceňuji, že Jobson se nebojí dotknout i složitějších témat, třeba vztahu k Dianině odkazu nebo tlaku veřejnosti.
Pro mě byl příběh Kate vždy bližší a přirozenější, ale i tak musím uznat, že tato kniha je důstojným pohledem na muže, který formuje budoucnost britské monarchie. Je ideální pro ty, kteří s tématem teprve začínají – poskytne jim přehled, kontext a spoustu zajímavostí, které dávají Williamův život do širších souvislostí.
Nenadchne znalce, ale potěší každého, kdo se zajímá o královskou rodinu a chce lépe pochopit osobnost budoucího panovníka. Čtivá, přehledná a s jasným respektem k tématu.
Příjemné čtení, které sice nepřináší nové objevy, ale rozhodně má své kouzlo.
Jako dlouholetá milovnice knih o britské královské rodině jsem po této biografii sáhla s velkým očekáváním – a i když mě nepřekvapila ničím zásadně novým, čtení jsem si užila. Robert Jobson umí psát čtivě a s respektem k faktům, díky čemuž se kniha čte lehce i přes to, že mnoho informací už bude pro fanoušky královské rodiny známých.
William pro mě osobně nikdy nebyl nejoblíbenější člen monarchie, ale autorovi se podařilo přiblížit jeho osobnost víc do hloubky – ukazuje ho nejen jako budoucího krále, ale i jako manžela, otce a muže, který se snaží najít rovnováhu mezi tradicí a moderním světem. Oceňuji, že Jobson se nebojí dotknout i složitějších témat, třeba vztahu k Dianině odkazu nebo tlaku veřejnosti.
Pro mě byl příběh Kate vždy bližší a přirozenější, ale i tak musím uznat, že tato kniha je důstojným pohledem na muže, který formuje budoucnost britské monarchie. Je ideální pro ty, kteří s tématem teprve začínají – poskytne jim přehled, kontext a spoustu zajímavostí, které dávají Williamův život do širších souvislostí.
Nenadchne znalce, ale potěší každého, kdo se zajímá o královskou rodinu a chce lépe pochopit osobnost budoucího panovníka. Čtivá, přehledná a s jasným respektem k tématu.
Příjemné čtení, které sice nepřináší nové objevy, ale rozhodně má své kouzlo.
May 24, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
The timing of this book makes a lot of sense. William's 40th birthday paired with the Platinum Jubilee that will undoubtedly highlight the future of the monarchy pull him even further into the spotlight this year, and this book capitalises on that. This is a thorough biography that looks at William's life through the specific lens of being king in the future.
If you have read any other of the major William biographies, I don't know that this one will offer a great deal of new information. However, I would still recommend it because I think that Jobson covers newer events well, such as the Covid pandemic and the aftermath of the Oprah interview. (Very different but notable events for the British Royal Family...) I think that these events will be crucial when we look back in 5, 10, 20 years, and are worth looking at.
Interestingly, if you know Robert Jobson, you will know that he is pretty firmly in "Camp Charles". And as such I expected that he would be fairly sympathetic to him throughout. However, Charles doesn't actually feature that much, and Jobson is neutral when he does. This is an up-to-date and thorough biography of the second-in-line to the throne, and worth picking up!
The timing of this book makes a lot of sense. William's 40th birthday paired with the Platinum Jubilee that will undoubtedly highlight the future of the monarchy pull him even further into the spotlight this year, and this book capitalises on that. This is a thorough biography that looks at William's life through the specific lens of being king in the future.
If you have read any other of the major William biographies, I don't know that this one will offer a great deal of new information. However, I would still recommend it because I think that Jobson covers newer events well, such as the Covid pandemic and the aftermath of the Oprah interview. (Very different but notable events for the British Royal Family...) I think that these events will be crucial when we look back in 5, 10, 20 years, and are worth looking at.
Interestingly, if you know Robert Jobson, you will know that he is pretty firmly in "Camp Charles". And as such I expected that he would be fairly sympathetic to him throughout. However, Charles doesn't actually feature that much, and Jobson is neutral when he does. This is an up-to-date and thorough biography of the second-in-line to the throne, and worth picking up!
September 4, 2022
Knowing that Jobson writes for the Daily Mail and has spent his career writing for the tabloids, I didn’t expect a serious biography, but this is truly “lite” and may be right up a alley for those who have no working knowledge of the Royal family. I was perplexed at the 40 page chapter about his period dating Kate compared with much shorter chapters on many other things. Jobson didn’t hardly cover the death of his mother (2-3 pages), didn’t even mention his fathered second marriage ceremony…. They fit jnows his lightweight audience.
Now, on the positive side, he (strangely given all the tabloidish pandering to the lightweight women readers) spent a good deal of time on his work on conservation and climate change. He also did pretty good on his military service. Finally, although very tabloidish on the surface, he did an admirable job laying out the FACTS (not the Harkles version of “truth) of the break with Harry and Nutmeg.
Now, on the positive side, he (strangely given all the tabloidish pandering to the lightweight women readers) spent a good deal of time on his work on conservation and climate change. He also did pretty good on his military service. Finally, although very tabloidish on the surface, he did an admirable job laying out the FACTS (not the Harkles version of “truth) of the break with Harry and Nutmeg.
June 21, 2024
Wonderful and wise
I would never choose to be a member of Royalty as much as I respect it and those who bear the title HRH. It is a terribly demanding job and if one agrees to be an active participant the repercussions are enormous. I know that one is born into it but once there, how one conducts oneself is the proof of the pudding. William has got IT....intelligence, loyalty, courage and
most important, kindness! I am an American but my heritage is British ( my twelfth great grandmother was Priscella Alden of "speak for yourself John" fame, so the blood of Englishmen 11qruns in my veins thus I have always been deeply involved in everything English. I loved Diana and I love her sons and follow all things British closely.
This book is so enlightening. I highly recommend it and congratulate the newest Royals. Keep up the good workWilliam, Harry, Kate and Megan and my God watch over and guide you.
Yvonne
I would never choose to be a member of Royalty as much as I respect it and those who bear the title HRH. It is a terribly demanding job and if one agrees to be an active participant the repercussions are enormous. I know that one is born into it but once there, how one conducts oneself is the proof of the pudding. William has got IT....intelligence, loyalty, courage and
most important, kindness! I am an American but my heritage is British ( my twelfth great grandmother was Priscella Alden of "speak for yourself John" fame, so the blood of Englishmen 11qruns in my veins thus I have always been deeply involved in everything English. I loved Diana and I love her sons and follow all things British closely.
This book is so enlightening. I highly recommend it and congratulate the newest Royals. Keep up the good workWilliam, Harry, Kate and Megan and my God watch over and guide you.
Yvonne
May 2, 2022
William at 40 is Royal gossip galore. Robert Jonson has done for the children of Charles and Diana and their spouses what Kitty Kelly did for the family members of Elizabeth and Philip some 30 years before. Readers get a rehash of the disaster that was right up to the disaster that currently is…the Sussexes…in case anyone reading this has been living under a rock! The true heroine in this story is Catherine Middleton, unflappable, grounded and a consort who never disappoints. If you are any kind of Royal watcher you should enjoy the good, bad and ugly tidbits within, and hope that William’s coronation comes sooner rather than later. I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book from NetGalley. Highly recommend.
August 4, 2022
With thanks to the publishers and Netgalley for a free ARC in return for my review.
I really don't know what the point of this book is, yes, William is 40! But I couldn't actually find any new information about William that I didn't already know, there are hundreds of books about the Royal's and this book of the possible King for our country had very little new information to offer me.
There has been books about Harry and Meghan's withdrawal from Royal life that has more new information about William in it than this book actually does and I understand that William is a private man and perhaps doesn't want to live his life through the press like Harry so I value that, just don't feel there is much of a book to be read here!
I really don't know what the point of this book is, yes, William is 40! But I couldn't actually find any new information about William that I didn't already know, there are hundreds of books about the Royal's and this book of the possible King for our country had very little new information to offer me.
There has been books about Harry and Meghan's withdrawal from Royal life that has more new information about William in it than this book actually does and I understand that William is a private man and perhaps doesn't want to live his life through the press like Harry so I value that, just don't feel there is much of a book to be read here!
August 14, 2022
I take great interest in all that is royal, anyone wanting an update, this biography is perfect!
The future of both the monarchy and William’s position as king are fully investigated. This book does a brilliant job of reviewing the details of William’s life to date. As heir to the throne, William is deserving of the genuine respect shown to his lifelong responsibilities.
I would highly recommend this book, I think that the author has all royal newsworthy events covered!
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book and congratulations to the author for this well researched book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The future of both the monarchy and William’s position as king are fully investigated. This book does a brilliant job of reviewing the details of William’s life to date. As heir to the throne, William is deserving of the genuine respect shown to his lifelong responsibilities.
I would highly recommend this book, I think that the author has all royal newsworthy events covered!
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book and congratulations to the author for this well researched book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 3, 2025
It is difficult to know how accurate biographies of the royal family are. According to the Endnotes, parts of this book are based on other authors' books. Apparently Jobson considers those authors' writings accurate.
There were a couple places in this book where the author changed topics without any sort of transition. For instance (p.226), the author is writing about unveiling a Diana statue in 2021. Then the very next paragraph, he is writing about Prince Andrew's involvement with Jeffrey Epstein. I had to pause and re-read these two paragraphs and try to figure out what I had missed. Turns out, I missed nothing. Just a sudden change in topic with no explanation. (This change in topic without explanation happened at other places throughout the book. Puzzling.)
There were a couple places in this book where the author changed topics without any sort of transition. For instance (p.226), the author is writing about unveiling a Diana statue in 2021. Then the very next paragraph, he is writing about Prince Andrew's involvement with Jeffrey Epstein. I had to pause and re-read these two paragraphs and try to figure out what I had missed. Turns out, I missed nothing. Just a sudden change in topic with no explanation. (This change in topic without explanation happened at other places throughout the book. Puzzling.)
May 2, 2022
I found William at 40 difficult to get into. It is advertised as a biography of Prince William as he turns 40 but large swathes of the book go into great detail about almost anyone EXCEPT William himself!!! For instance the first 25% off the book was about Charles and Diana with William seemingly mentioned as an after thought here and there!
I did like how there was no blaming or favouritism shown about Diana, Charles or later Harry and Megan.
It was interesting to hear about events we all remember from a different perspective.
Overall, although not quite what I expected, this is worth a read for any royal follower.
I did like how there was no blaming or favouritism shown about Diana, Charles or later Harry and Megan.
It was interesting to hear about events we all remember from a different perspective.
Overall, although not quite what I expected, this is worth a read for any royal follower.
July 14, 2022
I enjoyed reading all the 20 chapter's in this book 📚 very much, especially the last 4 chapter's . I did find a very modern Prince 🤴 William in this book 📚 quite a few time amongst the chapter's of the book. I liked the chapter's abou Catherine and the children the best and I enjoyed chapter 18,19,20 the best. I feel like a lot of statements have been settled now that I had been rembermed or not rembermed.😀
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 1, 2022
I devoured this interesting and well-written look at William's life. There were so many great little snippets that I didn't know: their engagement details on Kenya, Thunderstruck by AcDc, and the dance from Grease that William.and Kate did at their reception. What a fascinating look at a future King!
June 17, 2022
Was disappointed with this, was hoping for some insight but it was just a rehash of stories that had been covered in the press over the years, with a bit of joined up writing in between. Nothing new at all. I know he is a very private man but I had hoped the author had something new to tell. William will make a great King though!
July 20, 2022
William at 40 by Robert Jobson was a very interesting read and well-written look at William's life. If you love the Royals this is a book for you. Now, who doesn't just love William!? William, first born son of Prince Charles and Diana Spencer. and is second in line to the British throne. What a great future ahead of him.
I recommend this book.
I recommend this book.
July 25, 2025
A really interesting read about our future king. Some behind the scenes (as much as can be given) by someone who had personal contact with him. His concern for, and actions towards, a better planet are made very clear. A few interesting stories within as well. I believe we will have an interesting monarch when his time comes.
May 5, 2022
I received an ARC of, William at 40, by Robert Johnson. I really was looking forward to this book but its a dud. The book does not paint Princess Diana in the best light. Also, it just seemed to have cobbled together stories.
June 19, 2022
I have always loved reading and learning more about the royal family. This book was a great book learning about William who is a prince, son, husband, brother and father. This book was hard to put down on our beach trip! I highly recommend this book to all those who love following the royal family.
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June 25, 2022#netgalleyarc A decent biography. It was interesting to read about the Prince’s childhood and hear “his” side of the “break up of the Fab Four.” Not something I’ll purchase for my library but I did enjoy this book.
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