In the wake of Prince Harry's revealing memoir, "Spare," there has been a whirlwind of reactions from both the public and the royal family. The book, which delves into the Duke of Sussex's life, relationships, and experiences within the royal family, has been a topic of much discussion and speculation.
A prominent voice in the discourse is royal author Tessa Dunlop, who recently shared her perspective on the matter. She expressed her belief that King Charles III should have extended an "act of compassion" towards Prince Harry following the release of his memoir. Dunlop stated, "I felt that [Charles, William, and Kate] could have offered the hand of reconciliation and really forgiveness, which is required on their part because he's been a bit public and underhand by Harry, to say the least."
Dunlop further elaborated on Charles's character, describing him as a kind individual. She referenced Harry's book, where the Duke largely spared his father from any damaging accusations. In one poignant section, Harry recounted the moment when the then-Prince of Wales informed him and his brother, William, about the tragic death of their mother, Diana, Princess of Wales. Harry wrote, "He wasn't great at showing emotions under normal circumstances; how could he be expected to show them in such a crisis? But his hand did fall once more on my knee, and he said: 'It's going to be OK.' That was quite a lot for him. Fatherly, hopeful, and kind."
However, not all accounts in the memoir were as forgiving. The Duke of Sussex painted certain senior royals, including William, Kate, and Queen Camilla, in a less favorable light. He detailed incidents such as Prince William allegedly pushing him during a disagreement over Meghan Markle and the controversial decision to wear an offensive uniform to a party in 2005, which he claimed was influenced by William and Kate.
Despite the controversies and revelations, Dunlop hopes for reconciliation. She expressed her desire for Charles and William to "extend that hand over the Atlantic like Jesus on water."
Yet, the memoir has its critics. Royal commentator Rebecca English pointed out that many of William and Harry's friends "feel very hurt by some of the revelations that he's made." She emphasized the close bond the brothers once shared and the tight-knit circle of friends they had cultivated over the years.
As the royal family navigates the aftermath of "Spare," the world watches with bated breath, hoping for healing and understanding amidst the turbulence.
