Biographer "Christopher Andersen takes readers behind palace walls to examine the surprising similarities and stark differences among three remarkable women--Queen Elizabeth; Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall; and Princess Kate."--Book jacket. Andersen takes readers behind palace walls to examine the surprising similarities and stark differences among three remarkable women: Queen Elizabeth; Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall; and Princess Kate. One is a wily stateswoman and an enduring symbol of a fading institution. One is a celebrated homewrecker who survived a firestorm of scorn to marry her lover and replace a beloved twentieth-century figure. One is a beautiful commoner, fashion idol, and wife and mother to two future kings. Learn how the women actually feel about each other, and see how they are reshaping the British monarchy.

Preface: black queen, white queen -- "The Queen is dead. long live the King!" -- "It will be the most appalling shock" -- "I am so desperate, Charles. Please listen to me!" -- "That wicked, wicked woman" -- "The Queen wants to know: where are the jewels?" -- "The Kate effect" -- The magnificent seven -- A question of abdication.